German IdZ Future Warrior to Be Deployed in Afghanistan

Released on Thursday, July 01, 2004

EADS has announced that has been awarded a contract to equip 150 soldiers of the German International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) currently deployed in Afghanistan with IdZ system.

The IdZ or "Infanterist der Zukunft" (infantryman of the future) is a front-line warrior system being developed for the German Bundeswehr infantrymen. The system considerably enhances the protection of the individual soldier during military engagements providing him with increased survivability.

The contract worth €10 million ($12.5 million) has been awarded by the German Federal Office of Defense Technology and Procurement. It includes delivery of 15 IdZ systems, each one for 10 soldiers. The first IdZ was delivered to German Army Inspector on July 1st, 2004.

The IdZ integrated system covers self-protection, communications, navigation/orientation and weaponry through the use of new technologies in the network centric warfare environment. Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) protection are integrated into the IdZ system as well as bullet-proof clothing. Improved weapons, night vision, digital secure communications and navigation with GPS devices are also provided.

EADS Defence Electronics, an EADS subsidiary, is the prime contractor for the IdZ program consortium named "Projekthaus System Soldat" (System Soldier Project House).