Upgraded Lynx IFV for the Pentagon
Lynx KF41 IFV in its basic configuration
The Pentagon wants to replace the aging M2 Bradley and has been searching for a worthy replacement for several years. Among the contenders is the German Lynx armored vehicle, a consortium led by Rheinmetall. This "Lynx" has some serious advantages.
New generation technology
For decades, the Pentagon has been unsuccessfully trying to create a next-generation IFV. Another attempt was made in 2018. Initially, the program was called NGCV (Next Generation Combat Vehicle), then OMFV (Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle), and then MICV (Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle). Ultimately, the vehicle was designated XM30, and in service it will become the M30.
Between 2018 and 2020, the pool of participants was determined, but work stalled, and the program had to be suspended. In the summer of 2021, it was relaunched and applications were collected again.
Finalist projects
Five projects were submitted to the competition. In June 2023, two advanced to the next stage: Rheinmetall's upgraded Lynx KF41 and General Dynamics' Griffin III. Both companies were awarded contracts to complete the design and build prototypes.
Modification for the OMFV competition
In 2024–2025, the competitors completed their development and defended their designs. Assembly of the vehicles began last October. The first IFVs will arrive at the testing grounds by the end of 2026, after which they will undergo comparative testing. The winner will be determined by early 2028.
Small-scale production is scheduled for 2028–2029, when the vehicles will be delivered to the military for testing. Barring any difficulties, full-scale production will begin early next decade.
There's a caveat: in February 2026, the Pentagon announced the potential recruitment of new participants with high-readiness projects. How this will impact the situation remains unclear.
Product "Lynx"
American Rheinmetall Vehicles participated in the first OMFV competition alongside Raytheon. The Germans were responsible for the platform and overall coordination, while the Americans were responsible for individual components and instruments. After the program's relaunch, the Team Lynx consortium was formed, comprising Raytheon, Textron Systems, L3Harris, Allison Transmission, and Anduril Industries.
Armament of the new infantry fighting vehicle
The approach remained the same: we take the basic platform and adapt it to US Army requirements. This time, we've thoroughly redesigned the onboard electronics and changed the interaction model within the consortium.
Tracked platform
The American Lynx is based on the KF41, which debuted in 2018. The basic layout has been retained, but the engine lineup has been revised.
The welded armored hull features a front-mounted design. The front can withstand small-caliber projectiles, while the sides and rear are protected from bullets and shrapnel. Optional add-on armor modules and active protection against anti-tank weapons are available.
Modern electronics for various purposes
The heart of the vehicle is a diesel engine producing up to 1150 hp (the customer selects the specific model). The standard Renk transmission has been replaced with an Allison eGen hybrid. The chassis remains unchanged. Speed is up to 65–70 km/h, and the range is 500 km.
The crew consists of two: the driver and commander/operator are located in the front. The rear seats eight troops. Disembarkation is via the rear ramp or the upper hatches.
Combat capabilities
The Pentagon is being offered a low-profile turret. In the center is an oscillating gun mount, on the right and top are optical-electronic sights, and on the starboard side is a launcher for a UAV or missiles.
Accommodation of the BMP crew
- 50mm XM913 Bushmaster automatic cannon - several hundred rounds;
- 12,7 mm M2HB machine gun on a panoramic commander's sight;
- UAS with Coyote loitering munition.
The complex allows for reconnaissance over tens of kilometers and the destruction of detected targets – either with a cannon or drone- Kamikaze. The 50mm caliber significantly increases range and penetration against protected targets.
Fire is conducted through an L3Harris sighting system and fire control system—all-weather, 24/7, with multi-target recognition. The Anduril battle management system provides the crew with up-to-date tactical information in real time.
Competitive advantages
In key parameters, the Lynx surpasses all M2 Bradley variants. When paired with the Griffin III, the vehicles are comparable, but the Lynx has an advantage: it is already in serial production and is in service with several armies. This confirms the project's maturity and contributes to the prospects for NATO unification.
The first prototypes will begin testing this year. A year and a half of field testing will be enough for the Pentagon to make its choice. Time will tell whether Team Lynx's optimism is justified.
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