Future Integrated Soldier Technology (FIST)

The integrated FIST research programme, is led by the Guns and Warheads Department (WS4), Future Systems Technology of UK Defence Research and Evaluation Agency (DERA), with the following aims:

• To examine and assess technology options for enhancing the performance, survivability and operational effectiveness of the dismounted soldier. This will be achieved by taking a systems integration approach to the soldier and his equipment;

• To ensure that the dismounted soldier has appropriate C41 systems to enable Infantry sections to obtain maximum benefit from the battlefield digitization programme.

The FIST Research Assignment has the following work breakdown structure in order to meet the defined research objective:

• Systems & co-ordination;
• Digitization / C41;
• Human factors;
• Applied Research Technology Demonstrator (ARTD)
• Trials Support
• Defence Clothing and Textiles DLO Caversfield
• Fuel cells and power sources;
• Sensors

The work has focused on establishing the needs of all types of dismounted infantry and their current levels of performance. This has resulted in the development of a measurement framework, in which performance at all levels within the dismounted soldier company can be quantified. The framework, which has been adopted by, NATO and now NAAG Level 2 Topical Group 1 has enabled current performance to be established and, through this, the capability deficiencies that must be rectified by the FIST programme have being identified.

Last Updated - February 2001