skip to main content

IAV 2025: Elbit to develop extended-range Iron Sting, showcases Sling mortar system

By Christopher Petrov |

The Sling mortar system mounted on a Toyota Land Cruiser 79 chassis, displayed at the IAV 2025 conference in Farnborough, UK. (Janes/Christopher Petrov)

Elbit Systems' Iron Sting guided mortar munition is to see development to increase its range, Janes learnt at Defence iQ's International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) 2025 conference held under the Chatham House Rule in Farnborough from 21 to 23 January. The ambition is to extend the range of the Iron Sting mortar round up to 15 km from the currently listed 12 km, among other significant planned capabilities.

The 120 mm Iron Sting round uses either GPS or a semi-active laser homing (SALH) seeker for guidance. It can be fired from a range of mortar systems, including those made by Elbit such as Sling, or other systems made by third parties. Janes learnt that the Iron Sting munition is undergoing development in response to feedback from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Aside from the aim of increasing its range by 3 km, Janes learnt that Elbit is seeking a spiral development model for the mortar round, commencing in 2025. This includes the ambition to incorporate a rocket motor in the mortar round to provide an even greater range, and the addition of a shaped charge warhead for defeating static and moving armoured vehicles.

Looking to read the full article?

Gain unlimited access to Janes news and more...