Elbit Systems to supply Crossbow Unmanned Turreted 120mm Soft Recoil Mortar Systems to Austria.

On May 8, 2024, the Israeli company Elbit Systems Ltd. announced that it had secured a contract worth approximately $53 million to supply Crossbow Unmanned Turreted 120mm Soft Recoil Mortar Systems to General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS). The systems will be installed on Pandur 6x6 APC wheeled armored vehicles for an undisclosed European customer. The agreement, which will span six years, represents the first sale of the Crossbow system since its debut at the DSEI exhibition in London in September 2023.

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Elbit Systems Crossbow Unmanned Turreted 120mm Soft Recoil Mortar Systems (Picture source: Elbit Systems)

The Crossbow system, known for its high protection and survivability for mortar crews, is capable of delivering the first round in less than 30 seconds with a maximum firing rate of ten rounds per minute and a sustained rate of six rounds per minute. It can engage targets up to 10 kilometers away using a variety of NATO 120mm ammunition, including Elbit's Iron Sting guided mortar munition.

The turret’s auto-loader mechanism aligns ammunition with the current position of the barrel, eliminating the need to reposition before loading. This feature enhances the system's operational efficiency, allowing for quick responses during combat.

Udi Vered, General Manager of Elbit Systems Land, expressed pride in securing the first order for the Crossbow from a leading international customer, highlighting the system's role in addressing the evolving demands of the modern battlefield. "The precision of the guided rounds and our innovative turret design underscores our commitment to advancing military capabilities through technological innovation," said Vered.

Industry experts speculate that the likely customer for this system is Austria, considering its recent procurement of Pandur 6x6 Evolution vehicles and the exclusive operation of the 6x6 variant in the region. This assumption aligns with Austria's ongoing efforts to modernize its military assets.

The Crossbow system's capabilities extend to firing on the move and executing multiple-round simultaneous impact (MRSI) missions, direct-fire tasks, and the use of precision munitions such as the Iron Sting.

Developed under a contract with the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), the Crossbow system is also expected to become operational with the IDF in early 2025.