Ironclad's body is covered in a mettallic-like and remarkably tough armored hide, able to resist most forms of attack. In addition, he is monstrously strong (going toe-to-toe with the Hulk) can increase his density to unknown limits, gaining additional resistence to attacks.

Mike Steel was an engineer, scientist, and pilot before gaining his superhuman powers. With his teammates, he attempted to duplicate the original rocket flight of the Fantastic Four through a cosmic ray belt, and gained superhuman powers just as the Fantastic Four did. His team then first battled the Hulk, although during the battle Ironclad lost control of his powers and sank into the ground.His teammate X-Ray bombarded the spot where he had sank with cosmic rays, boosting Steel's power until he could control it and dig his way back out to be reunited with the U-Foes.