Eitan Armored personnel carrier (Israel)
Channel: Main Battle Tank
Date: 25/01/2023

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The Eitan (Herbew for persistent) is a new Israeli Armored Personnel Carrier (APC). It was developed to meet requirements of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). It is the first wheeled 8x8 APC, developed in Israel. This armored vehicle uses a number of Western components. Some sources report 50% of its components are of US origin. The IDF plans to replace its tracked M113 APCs with a new armored vehicle. A prototype of the Eitan was first publicly revealed in 2016. After testing the Eitan was approved for procurement. Its mass production commenced in 2020. This armored vehicle will become operational with the IDF in 2021. It will become the first wheeler armored personnel carrier, operated by Israel.

   The Eitan has a typical layout for a modern APC. It weights around 30-35 t and is well protected. Actually it could be one of the most protected wheeled APCs in the world. Vehicle has a V-shaped hull for improved protection against mines and improvised explosive devices. So far there were no official data regarding its ballistic and mine protection. Most likely that front arc withstands hits from 25-30 mm cannons and all-round protection is against 12.7 mm or 14.5 mm armor-piercing rounds. In terms of mine protection it is likely that this vehicle was designed to withstand blasts equivalent to 10 kg of TNT. The Eitan was originally planned to be fitted with Meil Ruach (commonly known as Trophy) active protection system. However instead it will use the Hetz Dorban (Iron Fist) active protection system.

   Prototype of the Eitan is fitted with a remotely controlled weapon station, armed with a 12.7 mm machine gun. There is also a pintle-mounted 7.62 mm machine gun. Other weapons, such as 30 mm or 40 mm automatic cannons, will be also available on production version of the Eitan. At least part of the IDF's Eitans will be fitted with unmanned turrets.

   The Eitan has more internal space than the M113. It is operated by a crew of 3 and can carry 9 soldiers. Troops enter the vehicle and dismount via a rear power-operated ramp with integral door.

   This armored vehicle uses 10 external cameras that provide 360° vision around the vehicle. These cameras can be used at night.

   This APC is powered by a German MTU turbocharged diesel engine, developing 750 hp. A Caterpillar diesel was also considered, but was not selected. Engine is mated to an Allison automatic transmission. Vehicle is fitted with a central tyre inflation system, which improves mobility over difficult terrain, such as sand. Tyres are fitted with run flat system. For a limited range of up to 16 km the Eitan can travel on deflated tyres. Though when the tyres are flat maximum speed is limited to 50 km/h. This vehicle is not amphibious.

   Price of the mass-produced Eitan is around $3 million.