The German defense procurement agency has awarded Rheinmetall up to 3.1 billion euros ($3.2 billion) in a framework follow-on contract for the procurement of soldier-systems.
A maximum of 368 Infantry Soldier of the Future – Enhanced System (IdZ-ES) platoon systems will be produced and delivered under the largest-ever soldier-system contract by 2030.
A platoon system comprises 34 individual soldier-systems and peripheral components such as “IT-equipment, optics, optronics, as well as military clothing, protection, and carrying equipment.”
Infantry Soldier of the Future
A soldier-system links with a digitized vehicle platform through digital radio communication, enabling both mounted and dismounted soldiers to access the same information.
Before delivery, the 68 IdZ-ES operational platoon systems will be upgraded to a digital standard and an additional order for 24 platoon systems will be made in the first quarter of 2025.
The additional order is worth around 417 million euros ($430 million).
Modernized Design
The new systems will feature a modernized design of the operational IdZ-ES VJTF 2023 soldier-system of the mechanized infantry system.
The VJTF 2023’s “obsolescence-adjusted design” removes technically obsolete components and enables communication and data exchange with the Boxer armored transport vehicle and Puma infantry fighting vehicle.
It can also communicate with the Digitisation of Land-Based Operations information and communication networks and is being prepared for communication with aerial platforms.
