Elbit Systems to Supply Crossbow Unmanned Turreted Mortar Systems for European Customer

Elbit Systems has secured a contract worth approximately $53 million to supply Crossbow Unmanned Turreted 120mm Soft Recoil Mortar Systems to General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) for installation on the Pandur 6×6 APC wheeled armored vehicle for a European customer.

The contract will span a period of 6 years. This deal represents the first contract signed for the supply of the Crossbow since its unveiling at the DSEI exhibition in London in 2023.

While Elbit Systems did not disclose the identity of the purchasing country, Austria emerges as a recent European Pandur customer. In February 2024, GDELS secured a $1.3 billion contract to produce 225 PANDUR 6x6 EVO wheeled armored vehicles for the Austrian Armed Forces.

Elbit Systems’ Crossbow offers enhanced protection and survivability for the mortar operator’s crew, along with a short sensor-to-shooter cycle. Capable of firing the first round in under 30 seconds, the system boasts a maximum rate of ten rounds per minute and a sustained rate of fire of six rounds per minute. It accommodates a variety of NATO 120mm ammunition, including the Iron Sting guided mortar munition, delivering an effective range of up to 10 kilometers. The Crossbow turret features a 360° capability and does not necessitate index loading.