BAE Systems has been awarded a $390-million contract to manufacture more Bradley A4 infantry fighting vehicles for the US Army, further advancing the service’s modernization plans. These new A4 units will replace older Bradley variants, offering upgraded protection, stronger firepower, and enhanced survivability for soldiers in high-threat environments. The Bradley has served as a backbone of the Army’s Armored Brigade Combat Teams for over four decades, with a fleet exceeding 6,500 vehicles. The A4 version incorporates significant improvements, including an upgraded digital backbone, modernized network integration, and refined situational awareness technologies that enable crews to operate more effectively across varied and complex missions. Manufacturing will take place across several BAE Systems locations in South Carolina, Alabama, Minnesota, California, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, with additional support from the Red River Army Depot in Texas. This facility, spanning more than 15,000 acres, plays a critical role in sustaining US land combat systems through maintenance, overhaul, and logistical support. Initial deliveries under the new contract are scheduled for October 2026. The Bradley A4 stands 22 feet (7 meters) long and accommodates up to 10 occupants. Its protection suite includes layered laminate armor rated to stop 14.5 to 30 millimeter armor-piercing rounds, depending on the configuration, and it can be fitted with explosive reactive armor to counter threats from rocket-propelled grenades. Standard armament consists of a 25-millimeter Bushmaster chain gun, anti-tank guided missiles, and an M240 machine gun. Powered by a Cummins VTA-903T diesel engine generating 600 horsepower, the vehicle can reach speeds of up to 35 miles (56 kilometers) per hour and travel approximately 250 miles (402 kilometers) on a full load of fuel.
