A modular fan inlet ice protection system includes a center ring, an outer ring and a plurality of struts. The struts are each coupled at a first end to the center ring, and at a second end to the outer ring. A plurality of shell members are each configured to be removably coupled to a corresponding strut. Moreover, the shell members each include an electrothermal heater element. Preferably the system further includes a plurality of inlet guide vanes each including an electrothermal heater element.