The modification ensures continued production of the latest Bradley variant, with work already underway and first deliveries scheduled to begin in October 2026. The deal extends the Army’s long-running effort to maintain armored brigade combat team readiness while the next-generation XM30 program progresses.
BAE Systems confirmed on 26 November 2025 that the agreement—registered under reference 134/2025—secures an additional multi-hundred-million-dollar tranche to convert more M2 Bradleys to the M2A4 configuration. Production activities span a wide industrial network, including facilities in Pennsylvania, Alabama, South Carolina, Minnesota, Michigan, California, and the Red River Army Depot in Texas. Deliveries from this new batch are expected to continue into the latter years of the decade.
The M2A4 upgrade is a central component of the Army’s long-term plan to extend the operational life of its estimated 2,600–3,000 Bradley vehicles across active-duty units, the National Guard, and strategic reserves. The modernization ensures that the Bradley fleet remains “future-ready” during the transition toward the forthcoming XM30 combat vehicle family.
The M2A4 variant features a significantly upgraded powertrain, including the 675-horsepower Cummins VTA903E-T675 engine paired with the HMPT-800-3ECB improved transmission. This enhancement boosts acceleration, cross-country mobility, and overall durability as armor packages become heavier. The added power also supports advanced electronic subsystems, active protection systems, and fully digitized mission electronics.
Structural reinforcements—such as enhanced torsion bars, improved shock absorbers, and optimized tracks—address the platform’s increasing combat weight and reduce wear during high-tempo operations typical of ABCT maneuvers.
The vehicle retains its proven 25 mm M242 Bushmaster cannon and BGM-71 TOW missile launcher, offering effective engagement against fortified positions, light armored vehicles, and modern tanks equipped with explosive reactive armor. These combined weapons ensure the Bradley remains capable in current threat environments.
A fully renewed electronic architecture forms another cornerstone of the A4 design. The upgraded digital vetronics enable faster data distribution, improved target acquisition, and seamless integration with reconnaissance and artillery support assets. The architecture also prepares the vehicle for future variants equipped with active protection systems such as Iron Fist Light Decoupled.
Operationally, the M2A4 continues to serve as a critical asset for U.S. mechanized infantry, providing troop transport, direct fire support, anti-tank capability, and mobile battlefield observation. The strengthened powerpack enhances the Bradley’s ability to maneuver alongside M1 Abrams tanks while supporting modern countermeasures against drones, anti-tank missiles, and enemy sensors.
For Washington, sustaining the Bradley upgrade program bolsters the resilience of the U.S. ground industrial base. It also ensures adequate vehicle availability following the transfer of several hundred Bradleys to Ukraine. The ongoing modernization reflects U.S. intent to preserve conventional deterrence while preparing for the transition toward more advanced capabilities in the coming decade.
