Subsystems
A major complement of the FIST project is the Bowman communications system, which gives secure communications to the troops on the ground, allowing for simultaneous transmission of voice and data and having built-in GPS equipment, as well as sending visual information direct from personal cameras.
The kit is aimed to cover 5 main areas:
- Command and Control
- Lethality
- Mobility
- Survivability
- Sustainability
Command and Control is aimed to improve fire team and local commanders' awareness of the situation. Lethality is as the name suggests and includes new weapon systems such as the new LAW and Javelin anti tank weapons and the new sights for the SA80. Mobility includes areas such as route planning and GPS locations, survivability includes armour and stealth and sustainability includes areas such as power supplies with the system aiming to run off new next generation power cells.
The kit is also designed to be upgradeable with new technology that the MoD looks at such as the new CornerShot system.
Read more about this topic: Future Integrated Soldier Technology