Situational Awareness
Discover cutting-edge solutions from 10 leading global suppliersThe UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has conducted trials of advanced body-worn technology for British soldiers, aiming to revolutionize battlefield awareness and tactical decision-making.
This development aligns with the government’s commitment to modernizing defense capabilities as part of the Future Soldier programme.
The trials, conducted in collaboration with the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Anglian Regiment, focused on integrating various technologies into a unified wearable system for soldiers. Key components tested include:
- Laser detection systems for threat awareness
- Drone thermal detection for enemy identification
- Ground sensors for movement detection
- Data visualization tools and live intelligence feeds
These technologies are designed to work together, creating a standardized digital system that can be customized for specific mission requirements.
Dr. Paul Hollinshead OBE MBA, Dstl chief executive, stated: “Dstl is working closely with industry to develop and integrate technologies that will transform our armed forces, making them more capable and lethal. Building on our decades of expertise, this work is delivering mission success, protecting the nation and helping it prosper.”
The system aims to provide several operational benefits:
- Increased battle tempo through faster decision-making cycles
- Enhanced situational awareness with real-time positioning of friendly and enemy forces
- Improved decision-making capabilities through data sharing, including images and video
Maria Eagle, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, commented: “This government is clear in our commitment to advancing technology that ensures the safety and superiority of UK Armed Forces. This cutting-edge technology will bolster operational lethality and elevate battlefield awareness. I welcome the continued collaboration between government, industry, and scientists on this innovative programme.”
Technical details of the tested technologies include:
- Helmet-mounted strobe alert system for friend/foe identification
- Electronic beacon system triggered by incoming laser detection
- On-person drone control for pre-programmed flight paths
- Advanced digital day and night weapon optics
- Smart hub for integrated power and data management
- Mesh network radio configuration for extended communication range
Jon Russell, Dstl’s Senior Principal Scientist, explained: “This technology will protect the lives of our Armed Forces by improving operational capability by giving them the advantage over the enemy. It is great to see the Future Integrated Dismounted Soldier Vision is clearly proving how a soldier system containing multiple knowledge capabilities that are designed to combine crucial data to improve operational advantage.
“Our aim is to develop the most capable armed forces in the world, by merging different technologies to advance battlefield awareness.”
The Regimental Sergeant Major at the infantry Trials and Development Unit added: “The trial, led by Dstl, was a showcase of future technologies and digital integration. The research has now advanced, bringing together industry to enhance capabilities with Command, Control, Communications, Computing and Information Systems. As the Army’s lead in dismounted close combat trials and development, we are at the forefront of improving operational advantage and look forward to supporting its future development.”
Dstl plans to use the insights gained from these trials to inform future equipment needs for defense. The next phase of development will explore vehicle-mounted options and joint soldier systems with UK allies, with ongoing experimentation planned for the next five years.
