Rheinmetall Future Soldier Expanded System goes into preproduction
The German government has contracted with Rheinmetall Defence of Düsseldorf to manufacture a preproduction version of the company’s “Future Soldier – Expanded System”, or IdZ-ES. The order represents a major milestone on the path to equipping the Bundeswehr with this state-of-the-art infantry system. A contract covering the multi-million euro order has now been signed at the Federal Agency for Defence Technology and Procurement (BWB) in Koblenz.
Rheinmetall’s Defence Electronic division has thus scored a significant new success in the process of creating IdZ-ES, the world’s most advanced infantry system. The “Expanded System” shares the same origins as the basic “Future Soldier” system that preceded it, which the Bundeswehr procured in 2005 as a first step in meeting an urgent operational requirement.
In the face of stiff national and international competition, Rheinmetall won the order to design the “Expanded System” in mid 2006. The new version is intended to eliminate certain deficiencies identified in the basic system, particularly with regard to command and control capabilities and combat effectiveness.
But IdZ-ES is more than a mere add-on or extension of the basic system. Based on an expanded user requirements profile and new findings resulting from extensive trials, it really represents a new system in its own right.
After supplying system demonstrators in 2008 as agreed, knowledge gained during the now-completed risk reduction phase flowed into the specifications for the preproduction system, the contract for which has just been awarded. Based on this preproduction system, proof of producibility is to be presented at the beginning of 2011, a key prerequisite for the start of full-scale serial production in 2012.
The award of the preproduction contract thus constitutes a significant step toward equipping German infantrymen with a groundbreaking system that will substantially enhance the combat effectiveness of the country’s armed forces.
An outstanding feature of the IdZ-ES is its comprehensive approach, which takes full account of the complex operational requirements army planners now impose on modern soldier systems. IdZ-ES is designed to bring a 10-man infantry section and its vehicle into the command loop of network-enabled operations. This network, consisting of reconnaissance assets, command and control components and fires, enables swift exchange of information, facilitating the creation of a common relevant operational picture, which forms the foundation for planning and executing military operations.
On his helmet display, the soldier receives all the data he needs regarding the tactical situation, the location of friendly forces, his mission and the status of the system, which also includes GPS, an inertial navigation system and a magnetic compass. In terms of design, the system is more ergonomic than ever, featuring reduced weight, greater miniaturization and improved integration of individual components.
IdZ-ES’s modular battle dress, body armour, and carrying system makes sure that soldiers can execute their missions even in extremely difficult operating conditions, providing protection from visual and infrared detection, the effects of the weather, and bacteriological and chemical agents. Flame-retardant materials and protection against insect bites further enhance the overall level of user comfort and safety. Integrated into the system is a compact electronic backpack element, containing the radio, soldier backbone computer, portable C4I computer for the section/squad leader and the GPS module.
More from Digital Battlespace
-
Cubic highlights real-time tactical radio language translation (video)
Among the capabilities on display by Cubic at SOF Week 2024 was the company's tactical radio voice translation, which was demonstrated to Shephard.
-
Orbital Overwatch: The Crucial Role of Lasers in Space-Based Intelligence
Amidst escalating global tensions, cutting-edge laser technology and expansive space domain awareness are vital for military operations. Orbital intelligence is transforming the landscape of global security, demonstrating its critical role in contemporary warfare.
-
Intelsat boosts SOF communications with advanced multi-orbit technology (video)
Intelsat is enhancing communication solutions for special operations forces through an approach focusing on multi-orbit capabilities, network integration, and advanced terminal technology.
-
Raytheon missile warning data processing system declared operational
Raytheon’s Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution Mission Data Processing Application Framework (FORGE MDPAF) is designed as a modular and adaptable framework to provide integration of mission focused applications to handle information from satellites.
-
Anduril Industries launches 'Pulsar' EW systems at SOF Week
Anduril Industries introduced 'Pulsar,' a cutting-edge modular EW system utilizing AI and ML to counter diverse electromagnetic threats, at SOF Week. Featuring vehicle and aircraft configurations, Pulsar enhances situational awareness and response capabilities in multi-domain operations.
-
New DOCK StreamCaster promises to boost tactical connectivity for SOF
The latest DOCK StreamCaster system enhances situational awareness for combat forces with advanced networking capabilities, supporting secure and resilient communications across challenging environments.