idZ ES Program

German Infantry of the Future - Expanded System

Rheinmetall Defense

On September 1st, 2006 the German Bundeswehr has awarded Rheinmetall Defence a multi-million Euro contract to develop an advanced version of the future infantry combat suite for German infantrymen. Following the delivery of idZ ES demonstrators in 2008 for testing, the German Army is expected to open the program for competition, where both Rheinmetall Defense and EADS, (which supplied the baseline idZ and idZ V1 systems) will compete on the production and support of the systems. Large scale production is expected to begin around 2009, to equip Germany's infantry, armored infantry, air force security troops and naval special operations units.

Dubbed "Future Soldier - Expanded System" (IdZ-ES), the new system will introduce a new wearable computer and advanced networking into existing idZ systems. The idZ ES computer and communications systems will be fully integrated with the system's sensors, helmet system display and voice radio, navigation aids, body armor and load carrying system.

According to Rheinmetall, IdZ-ES will utilize fully digital voice, data and video communications and will be interoperable with the German Army's FuInfoSys command and information system and fully support NATO standards for full interoperability as part of coalition forces. A GPS-integrated digital display will provide support the presentation of situational picture, which can be monitored at all echelons of command. The system will benefit from Rheinmetall's "Interconnected Command Control Communications Computer Unit" (IC4U) which enables real-time exchange of data between individual infantrymen, the section vehicle and relevant networks. In addition, the contract encompasses development of a wide array of sensor packages for fire control and mine detection. Rheinmetall is also working with other project partners to develop a new visor-equipped helmet, together with a system for monitoring the soldier's health status.

As part of the program, IdZ-ES technology will also be integrated into armored vehicle systems such as the Puma infantry fighting vehicle and Boxer armored personnel carrier as well as the future, lightweight air-portable combat vehicles.

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