Global Future Soldier Programs.

[Zarvan]

Soldato Futuro Future Soldier System, Italy



An industrial team, led by Selex Communications (formerly Selenia Communications), is developing the Italian Soldato Futuro, future soldier system. The industrial team includes Aero Sekur, Beretta, Galileo Avionica, Larimart and Sistema Compositi.

A collaborative programme between Germany and Italy was cancelled because there was a difference in requirements, scope and in timing of the countries' soldier modernisation plans.

The ending of the collaborative programme led to the Italian Ministry of Defence initiating a national programme and the formation of the industrial team led by Selex Communications.

The armed forces are working closely with the industrial partners, particularly in the evaluation of technology demonstrators and prototypes.

Italian future soldier system development
The Nato Army Armament Group (NAAG) has established the Topical Group 1 (TG/1) to coordinate soldier system interoperability and to prevent unnecessary duplication between various nations' soldier systems. Italy is officially represented in the TG/1 group and takes into account the need for standardisation of protocols for symbols such as on tactical displays, messages between terminals, and connectors and power packs.

Three prototype developments of the Soldato Futuro system have been completed. The Team Leader, Grenadier and Rifleman prototypes were delivered in 2007. The first Soldato Futuro system was delivered to the Italian army in 2009.


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Soldato Futuro clothing and protection
Sistemi Compositi led the development of the helmet, clothing and protection system. The combined combat vest and universal support module, developed by Sistema Compositi and Selex Communications, includes cables for the integration of the electrical components worn and carried by the Soldato Futuro.

"The Soldato Futuro body armour provides stab protection and protection against 9mm rounds."
The use of wire links reduces the volume of electromagnetic radiation, making the soldier less vulnerable to detection and surveillance and also the systems less vulnerable to electronic countermeasures such as jamming.

A new disruptive pattern material has been designed for temperate and desert environment versions of the combat uniform.

The soldier will also have a camouflage version of the nuclear, biological and chemical protection suit.

The body armour provides stab protection and protection against 9mm rounds. Boron carbide plates can be fitted to the body armour to provide protection against the penetration of 7.62mm armour-piercing rounds.

Helmet
The helmet has two visors, a splinter-proof visor and a bullet-proof visor, and a laser protection goggles. Various configurations are being considered to integrate the Aero Sekur nuclear, biological and chemical warfare protection face mask. The helmet also features Helmet-Mounted Display (HMD) equipment that displays information from a Low Level TV camera mounted on the back of the helmet. It also features Night Mobility Subsystem (NIMOS) developed by Selex Galileo.

Soldato Futuro command and control system
Selex Communications developed the Soldato Futuro command and control system and was directly in charge of developing the software. Larimart Computer was responsible for provision of the command and control hardware.

The soldier wears a touch screen for sending and receiving orders and information in the form of both text messages and graphic / image messages and displaying tactical situations, navigation data, global positioning system data over digital maps. The touch screen is wire linked to a pocket-sized computer that uses a standard man machine interface (MMI).

The unit commander and second in command will be issued with a larger touch screen, giving a higher-resolution image of maps and data.

The earphone and microphone being developed by Larimar includes a Galileo Avionica physiological sensor which will allow the commander of the infantry section to monitor each soldier's health conditions through its command and control system. The wireless links have been reduced to decrease electromagnetic signature and jamming problems.

Communications
"Beretta developed an ergonomically designed, lightweight rifle for the Soldato Futuro System."
Selex Communications developed a new individual pocket radio (IPR) capable of transmitting voice and data simultaneously. The IPR of the members of an infantry section has a range of 1.3km, which is considered a nominal maximum spread of an infantry section. It operates in a range of 800-900MHz and weighs approximately 200g.

Modulation techniques also assure low probability of detection and low probability of interception, improving the soldier and infantry section security. Moreover the soldier will be enabled to operate the IPR hands free.

In addition to the IPR, the commander of the infantry section has a higher level radio with longer range for voice and data communication with the section's platoon command post. The commander can use both radios while sharing the same earphone and microphone.

Communications design was addressed in order to ensure the Soldato Futuro system is fit for future operation, according to the emerging network-centric doctrine.

Target acquisition
The commander and second in command in an infantry section have a Galileo Avionica binocular target acquisition unit, (UAB), with a day channel and night-time thermal channel, a laser rangefinder and built-in compass.

The soldiers are issued with a Galileo Avionica individual night-vision unit based on a TV camera, on which most significant command and control can also be displayed for prompt alert.

Beretta ARX-160 assault rifle
In March 2009, the Italian Army recieved a new assault rifle, the Beretta ARX-160, to equip the Soldato Futuro ensemble. The ARX 160 will operate on gas and has a rotating bolt with seven lugs.

Beretta developed an ergonomically designed, lightweight rifle for the Soldato Futuro system. The length of the new rifle with the butt fully extended is 840mm, which is 158mm shorter than the Beretta AR 70/90.The telescopic butt can be adjusted to four different positions to suit the individual soldier's build and situation.

The rifle is fitted with a Picatinny rail and an individual combat weapon sight, developed by Galileo Avionica.

"The Soldato Futuro system includes a touch screen for sending and receiving orders and information."
The sight will allow the soldier to identify and visually track a person-sized target at a range of 600m and a tank-sized target at 1,500m. The sight has x3 magnification optical sight, monochrome day television channel, infrared night channel, visible laser pointer, infrared laser pointer and red dot sight.

The visible laser pointer corresponds to the bullet impact point and is particularly useful for close range combat in daylight conditions.

An infrared laser pointer produces a near infrared spot which is visible through infrared or night vision goggles and is deployed in night-time close combat.

The red dot sight places a red dot on the image of the target inside the sight. The red dot is not projected onto the real target, which would provide a visual warning to that target. The view through a soldier's sight can be distributed to other members of the infantry section via the radio link. Its firing tests after immersion in salt water and other such conditions were successful.

The rifle can be fitted with an under-barrel grenade launcher. One or two grenade launchers will be deployed in each infantry unit. The grenade launcher fire control system, developed by Galileo Avionica, includes a computer and a Class 1 laser rangefinder.

Freccia 8×8 wheeled armoured infantry fighting vehicle
In February 2009, the Italian Army recieved its first Freccia 8×8 wheeled armoured infantry fighting vehicle (AIFV), as part of the Soldato Futuro programme. The Italian Army Freccia is a 28t vehicle, powered by an Iveco 8262 diesel engine. It can reach speeds of up to 105km/h. The vehicle features a Rheinmetall 25mm cannon and an OTO Melara Hitfist Plus turret.

The turrent is fitted with communication radios. The Future Soldato radios for the infantry regiment include a VHF SINCGARS radio, a wide-band HCDR (high-capacity data radio), a CNR 2000 HF radio, the 900MHz vehicular integrated soldier system radio (ViSSR) and the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi radio.

The vehicles for the company officer in command and the company second in command are equipped with a UHF Have Quick radio that allows communication between fixed and rotary wing aircraft. These vehicles will become a part of the "Pinerolo" brigade, the first Italian Army medium brigade. The Italian army has 54 Freccia vehicles on order.



An industrial team is developing the Italian Soldato Futuro system.



Industrial partners and italian armed forces are working closely to evaluate technologies for Soldato Futuro.



Beretta is developing a lightweight rifle for the Soldato Futuro System.



The Soldato Futuro helmet has a splinter- and bullet-proof visor.



Selex Communications is developing a new Individual Pocket Radio (IPR).



The Soldato Futuro rifle is fitted with an individual combat weapon sight, which includes optical, TV and infrared channels.



Sistema Compositi and Selex Communications have developed the combined combat vest and universal support module.

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[Zarvan]

Body armour provides stab protection and against 9mm rounds

http://www.army-technology.com/projects/italiansoldiersystem/italiansoldiersystem9.html

 

[Zarvan]

UHLAN 21 : The Polish future soldier project

Designing “Future Soldiers” space-age suits of armor with TV and other creature comforts has been a popular fad since 1950s, but only in the last decade have such projects significantly moved from concept into the mainstream. Latest advances in microelectronics, mechanics and ergonomics, coupled with shifting the emphasize from the tanks and missiles back towards individual soldier as a result of the end of the Cold War and in accordance with the ‘asymmetric warfare’ doctrine, brought about Future Soldier projects popping up everywhere.

Historically, the first of the New Breed space-age-soldier-coming-to-a-forest-near-you programs to lead the pack was the U.S. Land Warrior, originating in the early 1990s, only to die and then restarted from scratch as the Future Force Warrior in 2007. The basic elements and requirements didn’t changed much since then: the resulting suit of electronics was deemed to integrate the individual small arms with high-tech equipment, provide the infantry soldier with advanced “communications, command and control” (C3) or even “communications, command, control, computers & intelligence” (C4I) systems at grass-root level – all that within the effort to look at the individual infantry soldier as a complete unit rather than just as a tiny cogwheel of a larger force. Since the 1990s one more element was added: armor, both soft and hard plates, protecting the soldier from enemy fire, integrated into load bearing vests.

By 2008, when the Future Soldier Fairs began in Prague, Czech Republic, everybody had an FS project of their own. The list is already overwhelming and seems to swell with every Google search. Today there are at least 19 such programs going on, on four continents. In Europe there are German IdZ, French Féline, Spanish COMFUT, Italian Soldato Futuro, British FIST, Swedish MARKUS, Swiss IMESS, Norwegian NORMANS, Czech V21, and Polish Tytan/Uhlan 21. In the Americas, aside from U.S. FFW, there are Canadian ISSP, Mexican Xiuhcoatl, Chilean Aguila and Brazilian COBRA. Australia has Land 125, and in Asia, there are Indian F-INSAS, Japanese V-Operation, ACMS of Singapore and who-only-knows-what in China – for the upstart regional superpower sure has something of their own. And the counter keeps ticking…

Uhlan 21 up close (Michal Sitarski): 1. NV or NV/thermal fusion goggles or monocular (both by PCO) worn on helmet. 2. New ballistic helmet (Maskpol) with enhanced goggle-mount and earphone/hearing protector space. 3. PCO’s day-and-night NV or NV/thermal fusion rifle sight (PCO). 4. Velociraptor (Maskpol) – a new, integrated low profile plate carrier vest with modular pouches. 5. New field uniform (Maskpol) with breathable, fire retardant (Polartec Power Dry shell, cotton ripstop sleeves) combat shirt and pants, fitted with integral protective knee and elbow pads. 6. Radon 5.56mm rifle in Battle Rifle classic configuration (WAT/Fabryka Broni Lucznik-Radom). 7. The Integrator wrist control panel (WB Electronics).

Uhlan 21 up close (Michal Sitarski): 8. Personal radio (Radmor, WB-Electronics). 9. The Integrator computer – main unit (WB-Electronics).
Bumar’s Lancer
Polish Future Soldier project started first in 2006, with CNPEP Radwar of Warsaw, called the Uhlan 21, and generally based upon know-how of the French electronics giant SAGEM, partnering with Radwar, which was a big name but rather in air defense radar business – not particularly a ‘B3’ (beans, boots and bullets) specialist, catering to the individual warrior. The first generation Uhlan was first presented at the aforementioned Prague Future Soldier Fair in 2008, and since then has significantly advanced. This was possible when Radwar’s initiative was taken over and expanded by the Bumar Group, which took the issue very seriously – to the extent of creating a whole new core business division around it. In 2009, a Uhlan 21 consortium was created for developing the Future Soldier system for the Polish Army, which meanwhile became official, and christened with a cover name ISW Tytan. ISW stands for Indywidualny System Walki, or Individual Combat System. According to a tradition dating from late 1970s, all Polish soldier-level projects have their cryptonyms derived from elements of the Mendeleyev periodic table. Tytan means titanium, Ti, a metal with atomic number of 22. The Uhlan 21 consortium consists of the originator, Radwar, as well as small arms (Fabryka Broni Lucznik-Radom and OBR SM Tarnow), optoelectronics (PCO SA), grenade-launcher and 40mm ammunition (ZM Dezamet SA), and small arms ammunition manufacturers (ZM Mesko SA), ballistic protection and combat clothing provider (PSO Maskpol SA), as well as non-Bumar entities, like Polish communication systems leaders Radmor SA and WB Electronics, Military Technical University, Military Aviation Medicine Institute, and Military Hygiene and Epidemiology Institute.

The name Uhlan comes from traditional Polish cavalry – the lancers – patterned after the Tartars, whom Polish forces fought in the 16 and 17th Centuries on the Polish-Turkish frontier lands, deep into today’s Ukraine. In their language ‘ughuan’ meant ‘the Brave’ and so were their daredevil deeds on the battlefield. The uhlans, light cavalry fighting with sabre, lance, pistol and swift maneuver, revolutionized the 17th Century European military doctrine, administering a coup de grace to the concept of heavy cavalry tracing its heritage all the way back to medieval knights in shining armor. Father of the U.S. Cavalry, Casimir Pulaski, was an uhlan, and his tactics written for his American trainees had a typical daring and dash to it. Yet their real moment of glory came during the Napoleonic Wars, when ‘los infernos picadores de Polonia’ decided the outcome of many encounters in l’Empereur’s favor, especially in the Peninsular War. Soon copycats sprang out throughout Europe, and Polish-inspired uniform parts like “ulanka” (cavalry jacket) or “czapka” (square-topped cap) were en vogue, becoming de rigueur parts of the colorful 19th Century military fashion. This is a deeply meaningful name, then, for a Polish project meant to revolutionize the country’s military.

The shortest and the longest: 2nd Gen Battle Rifle classic configuration length compared to the Automatic Carbine in bullpup trim. (Leszek Erenfeicht)
The Future Soldier program is an interdisciplinary effort, touching on all aspects of soldiers’ life and fighting. It entails a thorough modernization of hardware, careful selection of professional soldiers, upturning the heretofore organization and training, as well as command and logistics. The Tytan is only a part of it, but an important, if not a crucial one. It calls for a wholly renewed outlook on the soldier, the ability to assist his mental and physical abilities with modern hard- and software, by placing him as a part of the net-centric battlefield. This is an attempt at the ‘soldier-centric’ approach to the combat.

The Future Soldier’s equipment is meant to be a coherent ergonomic system, meant to assist the warrior and his mission. The modern equipment is not only a new set of flashy gadgets slapped-on to a half a century old rifle – it is rather a whole new approach to the well-being and efficiency of a soldier. This means also soldier-friendly clothes, ballistic and NBC protection, novel small arms with intelligent munitions, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, and the whole new suit of command and control gear complete with a hand-held computer to integrate it all. The real challenge is to make it perform to do all of that – and then to make it as much as possible locally-manufactured and decently priced, while still cutting a profit.

The Phase 1 of the Uhlan 21/ISW Tytan development came to conclusion on November 31, 2010. More than 100 scientists, technicians and experts, military and civilian, from various government institutions and private industry, as well as academic circles, have already took part in the Phase 1. Their expertise and practical knowledge ranged from medicine, to ordnance, munitions, uniform, protective suits, communications, reconnaissance and command, all entwined with the new technologies, IT – the ‘nerd stuff.’ The results are already going beyond what was planned at the beginning.

Future Soldier with all Uhlan 21 gimmicks and gadgets inside one of the Polish Army’s Rosomak APCs – still comfortably with all those objects on him. (Michal Sitarski)
Radon from Radom
So far, the most publicized of the Uhlan 21 components is the new Polish battle rifle, called first the MSBS-5.56 for Modulowy System Broni Strzeleckiej or Modular Small Arms System, 5.56mm being the caliber. The official cryptonym for the MSBS is now ‘Radon’ (Rn, a radioactive gas with atomic number of 86). This rifle is an attempt at leaving the Kalashnikov legacy behind once and for all, giving the soldiers a tangible proof of the new beginning. Besides, the AK platform already hit a stone wall development-wise with the current-issue Polish M96 Beryl rifle. A totally new battle rifle was required, for the very architecture of the AK platform does not meet the requirements of the modern battlefield. The top-mounted receiver cover precludes mounting any decently anchored rail interface, able to provide long enough stable bases for tandem-mounted optical and electronic sighting devices, so popular and useful nowadays. These could be – at best – semi rigid, prone to un-zero itself during use, as the history of the complicated and troublesome Beryl top rail provides enough proof. The AK is also significantly anti-ergonomic, its right-side cocking handle is obsolete and awkward to use – especially with all the gadgets mounted on the top rail. The barrel can’t be made quick-changeable – so you can have it either long or chopped, but you need two separate weapons to accommodate them. It is virtually impossible to make it ambidextrous as well, and despite being chambered for the 5.56mm round, like Beryl, the magazine is not interchangeable with the STANAG weapons.

What was needed was a fully modern, novel platform with monolithic rail, which is not only modular and ambidextrous, but also capable of getting user-defined and user-level-configurable to a hitherto unheard of extent. The user was to be able not only to put on a barrel of a different length or weight, but his freedom went to the extent of changing the basic layout of the rifle between the two possible configurations: classic ‘lock, stock and barrel’ gun, and a bull-pup. Having considered that, the Military Technology University (WAT) of Warsaw in co-operation with the Fabryka Broni Lucznik-Radom of Radom designed, manufactured and tested two technology demonstrators of the new 5.56mm basic combat rifle, one in classical layout, the other in butt-less (bull-pup) configuration. Objective ‘Radon’ in both configurations would be a whole system comprising of: Battle Rifle, Automatic Carbine (CQB weapon), bipod mounted Designated Marksman Rifle (DMR), Grenade Launching Rifle (fitted with under-barrel GLM) and an Infantry Automatic Rifle (a hi-cap magazine-fed support weapon). All of these are to offer 80-90% parts interchangeability.

Modest beginnings – 1st Gen technology demonstrators of the MSBS rifle in classic and buttless trim. Still blocky, still sketchy, but already showing potential. (Leszek Erenfeicht)
The main component of a thus configured system would be a common upper receiver, which is to be mated with different barrel modules, lower receiver modules, and buttstock or buttplate (bull-pup) modules. The upper receiver in both TDs and final production model is to be made of light alloy – lighter and cheaper to manufacture than the previously used stamped sheet-metal receivers. The receiver is fitted with attachment points for all of the interchangeable modules, as well as ejection ports, and bolt carrier hold-open mechanism. Both ports and hold-open levers are fully-ambidextrous, by being doubled and fitted to both sides of the receiver, to enable equally ergonomic operation by both left- and right-handed shooters or suiting the tactical situation (e.g. shooting to the left/right of the barricade with minimum exposure).

A polymer lower receiver module has a magazine interface for the STANAG 4179-compatible magazine and the fire-control group giving the shooter a choice of semiautomatic and fully automatic fire or safety (or FIRE and SAFE in semiautomatic variant). The FCG has safety/fire-selector levers on both sides of the lower receiver for fully ambidextrous operation. The magazine catch is also ambidextrous and ergonomically positioned. The lower receiver module governs the configuration of the weapon, and comes in two different types: one with classical folding butt configuration and the other in butt-less (or bull-pup) one. Permanent re-configuration from right-hand to left-hand operation is limited to relocating a cover from one of the two ejection ports to another and relocating (actually turning by 180°) the bolt. All of that can be performed at user level without the use of tools other than perhaps an Allen wrench.

Wrist-mounted Integrator control panel enables the Soldier to control much more than his own equipment. (Michal Sitarski)
The MSBS-5.56 is to offer the user a choice of different interchangeable barrel modules, complete with muzzle device, gas chamber, piston and locking chamber. Individual barrel modules differ in length and thermal capacity or contour (e.g. the IAR or DMR barrels). The buttstock or buttplate module interacts with the choice of the lower receiver. If the classical configuration lower is chosen, a buttstock is attached, with a choice of folding telescoping or fixed telescoping stocks, both with an adjustable cheek piece capability. The bullpup lower can only accommodate the buttplate module, as governed by the weapon’s ‘canard’ configuration.

The modular rifle fires the NATO-standard 5.56×45 intermediate round, fed from various plastic or metal magazines. Additionally, it can be fed from a large-capacity drum magazine, dedicated to the IAR support weapon. In the future, a similar 7.62×51 NATO sibling system is being considered.

Modular rifles’ TDs have undergone a rigorous two-years testing program, aimed at achieving total reliability in various operational environments. As these demonstrators are still more of the test appliances rather, than weapons ready for issue, efforts are being made at enhancing their ergonomics and aesthetics. It seems that the current program is capable of spawning a finalized design within a couple of years. Now a new generation of the prototypes, with much enhanced, ‘Low-Drag-High-Speed’ looks, are being readied for their share of testing. So far only Battle Rifle prototypes were actually manufactured and tested, these to become models for all the other variants. A new under-barrel GLM is also being designed for the MSBS/Radon in grenade-launcher rifle role.

Mock up of the 2nd Gen Battle Rifle in bullpup configuration. (Leszek Erenfeicht)
The Battlefield Nerd
The electronics of the Polish Future Soldier system – or the C4I(R) circuit – would be governed by a wrist- or vest-mounted palmtop-size highly integrated computer, called the Integrator. The Integrator would be the heart and brain of all the electronic systems, a soldier’s interface with the machine, enabling him to user-define what sort of data he wants to be displayed non-stop, which he would like to access, while enabling easy, intuitive navigation with large, user-defined and glove-friendly keys. Wireless two-way data transmission through the Integrator enables the warrior to take part in a ‘larger picture:’ display maps, overlaid with tactical situation, get a peek at the BFT and check if the guy who briefly appeared there to the left, behind those trees, is a friend or foe, have a look through the cameras of the airborne asset overhead if there is no one lurking on the opposite side of this concrete fence to shoot at him if he scales it, see through the rifle-mounted sight without having to stick his head from behind the cover, etc. At the same time it enables the command to maintain a hold of a soldier – control his ammunition expenditure to optimize the logistics, stream a video from his rifle sight, NV goggles or other means of observation, as well as read-outs from his NBC and other sensors, pinpoint his position on the map and do a remote medical check-up if he doesn’t answer the radio. The Integrator also serves as a personal comms center, enabling voice and short text connection. All of the hardware and software needed to run the Integrator are already available, and most are locally-manufactured. Phase 2 would try to get rid of the cables and integrate the Integrator with a transmitter, eliminating the need for a separate radio. So far, the ISW encompasses the highly advanced Radmor R35010 hand-held radio both as a means of tactical communication and data transmitter.

Of course, getting hold of such a gadget would be a real treat to any enemy scout, so there’s also a hidden panic button – here called the ‘P.O.W. Button’ – instantly deleting all software and data, and disabling the Integrator, with an option of activating it remotely.

What the Future Holds
No one knows where the development of the Uhlan/Tytan system as well as the whole Future Soldier program would lead, but so far the results are very encouraging. This was but a Phase 1, initial reconnaissance into what can be achieved – now is the time for real work and implementation of the system. How long would it take, and what would be the scale of the actual implementation, no one seems to know, but the beginning is already made.

by Leszek Erenfeicht on 11 January, 2012.

http://www.sadefensejournal.com/wp/?p=912&page=2

 

[Zarvan]

 

[The Eagle]

https://twitter.com/x/status/804995308597968896

 

[Friendly]

Official video of German Heer Landforces:

Germany updated :


Videos of Equipment


https://www.bundeswehr.de/portal/a/bwde/start/multimedia/videoarchiv/heer/2016/!ut/p/z1/hZBBb8IwDIV_Ta61KQLa3VqhSWMV2gYDmssUGq_N1iUoNTCh_filQuIEIgdLfs_5nmyQsAFp1cHUio2zqg19KccfeVIsiziN4-UonmKWjl9Xq-lzjLMYVrC-NyKDjTdehrDQBGVgTG4zJrAACVJTVDlL3FcmyybU2it2Pto5z23v7L0PTmQ0lDiY5oPJJWrwlw3TWfqOAf6Uv_XAL3VQv5e_quqXhrJRVrf04qrsLMxA1q3bnq-R2e0wqUF6-iRPPtr7IDfMuweBAo_HY6Rpz13VUNdQ8DUJ7ANUK1AJ7DWBHSvPApmqxprv0DvbsakFGn26FtK4jmFzDQ67n8dkPh8dTgWt_wEgA6zx/dz/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/#Z7_B8LTL2922T52D0A96QVVDK20J7

90 system delivered already 2013.
Equipment for light infantry
In today's rapidly transforming armed forces, the infantryman continues to play a central role in new operational scenarios. His mission spectrum is extremely complex, calling for capabilities enabling high-mobility operations in difficult, unfamiliar terrain, even when dismounted.

Increasingly often, the infantryman has to e Herban areas and under extreme climatic conditions. He has to contend with new asymmetric threats, and frequently faces attacks from irregular forces.

Moreover: infantry in modern airmobile and other special operations have to be able to carry out a multiplicity of highly diverse missions. This doesn't just require new force structures; it requires modern equipment specifically tailored to the task.

Advanced technologies can make a major contribution to improving the survivability, C4I capabilities, sustainability, mobility and lethality of modern military operations. Our aim is a wellprotected soldier, equipped with robust weapons, a clear view of the tactical situation and reliable means of communication.

The important thing: providing the troops with an open infantry system based on modular combat equipment and delivering enhanced performance and reduced weight. And it isn't just with regard to weight that we need to avoid overburdening the soldier: equipment should be easy to use even under tough field conditions.

A modular design ensures operational flexibility and the ability to adapt to new situations and mission requirements. Moreover, modular equipment can be used in multiple ways–including by other branches of the military.

Meeting the infantry's need for high mobility requires an armed, airportable vehicle. An essential component of the total system: it can be armoured to improve the survivability of its occupants, and equipped with additional weapons for enhanced lethality.

As a means of transport, it increases operational sustainability, enabling troops to carry more equipment while ensuring communications with the next higher echelon as well as a network centric warfare capability. Naturally, diverse missions and a high degree of specialization call for the deployment of various vehicle systems.



Rheinmetall – The leading soldier system house
From individual components to integrated systems based on operational requirements and doctrines, Rheinmetall offers flexible and scalable technology, a wide variety of command and control and display solutions, different levels of integration as well as variable vehicle integration, including Rheinmetall or third-party hardware and software.

Rheinmetall Defence has longstanding experience and expertise in networked-enabled operations and system integration. In particular, the Group’s ability to develop seamless C2 system architectures based on international standards – from the individual rifleman up to brigade-level command posts – is essential for implementing soldier modernization programmes.

Advanced technologies make a major contribution to improving the five main capabilities of modern warfare – protection, lethality, command and control as well as mobility and sustainment. Rheinmetall’s goal is a well-protected soldier, equipped with integrated weapons, with a clear picture of the tactical situation and reliable means of communication.

The Rheinmetall soldier systems improve performance in all five capability areas without overburdening the individual rifleman. The system is modular, resulting in reduced volume, weight and power consumption. This ensures greater operational flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new situations and mission requirements. The equipment is easy to use even under harsh conditions and in stressful combat situations when performance and low weight are paramount.

As a globally leading developer and supplier of soldier systems, Rheinmetall can point to abundant experience in this field: the Group is already producing the modular Future Soldier - Extended System (Gladius) on behalf of the German Bundeswehr, as well as various systems and component solutions for other NATO partners. And in 2015 Rheinmetall’s Argus soldier system was contracted for the Canadian Forces’ Integrated Soldier System Project (ISS), another example of Rheinmetall’s flexible soldier systems solutions.




Modular and flexible soldier systems solutions: light, medium and extended version

Rheinmetall Defence: Cutting edge technology for light infantry operations
Building on a long, proud tradition of innovative competence, Rheinmetall Defence is Europe's leading supplier of systems for ground forces, offering a wide array of armoured vehicles, weapons, ammunition, reconnaissance technology and network-enabled capabilities, including

• Communications systems
• Armoured transport vehicles
• Command vehicles
• Reconnaissance vehicles
• Combat vehicles
• Sensors and optics
• Weapon systems
• Ammunition
• Pyrotechnic products
• Training systems

all meticulously designed to meet the special requirements of light infantry forces.

In addition, Rheinmetall Defence offers a wide range of training resources and instruction systems: the spectrum extends from a company-owned major training area to sophisticated training simulators. Responding to the increasing prevalence of military operations in urban terrain (Mout), Rheinmetall has developed a mobile training system to teach troops the skills they need in order to fight in towns and cities. Enabling highly realistic training, this system also offers the possibility of in-depth evaluation of exercises and after action briefings.

 

[Zarvan]

I think Pakistan will adopt lot of components of Russian Ratnik II system and also upcoming Ratnik III

 

[ashok mourya]

 

[Big Tank]

Some concepts from India ... F-INSAS program:

The new multi cal rifle from DRDO and the MSMC...

You call it Future Soldier? Lol even our Current Infantry Gear is better than that.

 

[Bilal Khan (Quwa)]

I was excited about this stuff a decade ago, but I don't think mass adoption in all respects is the way. In Pakistan's case, I think the best method would be to train, equip and embed specialists into regular infantry teams. This can apply for those who are network-enabled and can guide air strikes (from manned and unmanned aircraft), artillery, etc. However, night and thermal sights, reflexive sights, UBGL, real-time location transceivers and small handheld radios should be standard issue.

 

[Gufi]

I was excited about this stuff a decade ago, but I don't think mass adoption in all respects is the way. In Pakistan's case, I think the best method would be to train, equip and embed specialists into regular infantry teams. This can apply for those who are network-enabled and can guide air strikes (from manned and unmanned aircraft), artillery, etc. However, night and thermal sights, reflexive sights, UBGL, real-time location transceivers and small handheld radios should be standard issue.

I would add hand held drones for better battle field awareness also to be part of infantry teams. It would help with battle field awareness. I think there already are specialists who call for artillery strikes from fire bases, I wonder how much different calling in airstrikes would be if you can direct artillery.