Elbit Systems will provide its UT30 MK2 unmanned turret systems to General Dynamics’ ASCOD armored fighting vehicles. General Dynamics European Land Systems is supplying the AFVs to an unidentified European NATO customer. The systems will be installed on the vehicles under a contract valued at about $100 million, Elbit said Wednesday.
Firepower and Survivability
According to Yehuda Vered, Elbit Systems Land’s general manager, the UT30 MK2 contract was awarded after the buyer of the ASCOD evaluated the AFV’s firing tests.
“We value our collaboration with GDELS and are honored to collaborate in this project with our advanced turret solutions, which enhance firepower, protection and operational effectiveness,” Vered said. “This contract reflects the trust placed in our capabilities and our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern land forces.”
Flexible, Modular Architecture
The unmanned turret will equip the ASCOD with commander and gunner electro-optic sights, as well as anti-tank guided missiles. The UT30 MK2’s weapon systems also include a 30 mm main gun and a coaxial 7.62 mm. In addition, the system offers a configurable, modular design and open architecture enabling both manned and unmanned operations. For ASCOD crew safety, the Elbit turret system features a very low profile and a multi-level protection suite and countermeasures.
Elbit will work on the contract until the end of 2027. The turrets will be produced in cooperation with local companies, securing the supply chain and promoting homegrown support capabilities.
Fighting Vehicle Procurements
The contract is the latest in GDELS orders for the fighting vehicles. In January, GDELS-Santa Barbara Sistemas secured a $413 million contract for 42 ASCODs from the Latvian Ministry of Defence. According to a European Security & Defence report, the first vehicle delivery is scheduled for summer 2026, with subsequent deliveries planned for 2027.
In May, Elbit also secured a $53 million contract award to deliver Crossbow unmanned turreted 120 mm soft recoil mortar systems to an unnamed European customer purchasing Pandur 6×6 APC wheeled armored vehicle from GDELS. Earlier in February 2024, Elbit received a $300 million contract to provide weapon, reconnaissance, driving and situational awareness systems for a European buyer’s 230 armored Pandur vehicles.