Rheinmetall Soldier Systems - networked solution for the digitized battlefield
Latest developments
We have been digitalizing the "last mile" since 2006, developing and improving the GLADIUS Soldier System. The latest version “System Panzergrenadier” (“System for Mechanized Infantry”) was approved in 2022 as combat ready for Germany’s contribution to NATO’s spearhead: Very High Readiness Joint Task Force ‘VJTF 2023’. The so called “IdZ-VJTF” comes with more than 130 components from over 30 sub suppliers.
The full system integration of IFV Puma and Gladius 2.0 was managed by our team of experts. Providing stable connectivity, real-time situational awareness, platform to soldier system integration, proven sensor-effector networks and autonomous systems increase the combat performance of the forces on the digitized battlefield.
Soldier System GLADIUS 2.0: Basis for customization and synonym for performance
GLADIUS 2.0 follows a holistic approach enabling us to meet customer requirements around a C4I core system, clothing, protection, load carriage, weapons, reconnaissance and sighting sub-systems. Therefore, we work closely with our customers through workshops, studies, trials and tests to ensure requirements are satisfied and user benefits of the system are maximized.
The combination of highest protection, communication and situational awareness-standards with the modularity and flexibility of an open generic system architecture, allowing the integration of a large number of subsystems, is unique:
- Flexible and extendable interfaces such as NATO Generic Vehicle Architecture (NGVA)
- Modular configuration and scalability
- Open architecture based on a digital core
- Best function to weight ratio
- Embedded IT Security
- High Definition Audio and data
- Comprehensive communication platform
- Multi role configuration and role specific views
- Reduction of cognitive and physical burdens
- Optimized sensor-to-decision and sensor-to-shooter networks
- Efficient Power Management
- Advanced vehicle platform integration
- MUM-T capability
Complex future operating environments require all entities to operate together in a coherent network to gain mission success and maximize combat power. Autonomous Systems for example, part of the networked soldier, provide important reconnaissance data, but also logistic support or direct use of weapons. Each soldier, each vehicle, each sensor and each weapon station is an element of a linked, real-time data network, collecting and providing relevant data.
A core element of Gladius 2.0 is our Tactical Management System TacNet. It provides functions far beyond those of conventional command and control systems. It constitutes the control centre for all platforms, sensors and effectors and controls the whole sensor-effector network via standard interfaces such as the Generic Inter-Vehicle Gateway (GIVG) or NGVA. All vehicles, their crews and dismounts are fully integrated and operate cooperatively.
Outlook – what comes next
We continue to work on the next generation of Soldier Systems to optimize and increase performance. Current focus: New power supply capabilities even less weight, smart textiles, innovative sight systems, AI swarm technologies, bio-sensors, digitization of health monitoring and rescue procedures. Stay tuned!