AFCEA 18: Detect. Connect. React - networked on the battlefield

Detect. Connect. React - Discover, connect, react: The increasing digitization of the battlefield of the future poses challenges, but also opportunities for the armed forces. The reliable networking of systems and actors at various levels of command is of great importance, as it will have a decisive influence on the threefold superiority of information, leadership, and effect. Rheinmetall is facing the special requirements of the mobile tactical level and presenting solutions for the connected battlefield of the future. Some of them are being presented by the technology company for security and mobility at the AFCEA 2018 trade fair from April 11th to 12th, 2018 in Bonn.

TacNet - the Tactical Management System from Rheinmetall

TacNet is the Tactical Management System (TMS) from Rheinmetall. It is tailored to the requirements of highly mobile operations at the tactical level and primarily provides functionalities of a command and weapons system (FüWES).

TacNet is designed so that a common situation picture is shared by the soldier on the ground, vehicles of all kinds, and command posts. Targeted movement, efficient communication, and effective action define the basis for soldiers at the tactical level. As a modern FüWES, TacNet supports these capabilities and also opens up new possibilities.

TacNet combines two different software systems in a revolutionary way in a product family. The functionality "Cross-sectional operating and display device" (QBA) is integrated into TacNet. This extends the range of applications of the software to all touch-operated screens. Other input methods such as via direction handles are still possible.

TacNet networks platforms, sensors, and effectors as an integrative system. It is compatible with command systems and interoperable with internationally recognized standards. The innovative system is characterized by visualization. The uniform user interface at all levels and the focus on the essential make it efficient. TacNet can be used independently of a specific communication infrastructure. It is scalable through a role-based range of functions and can be expanded with apps.

TacNet consists of a common software core and is also modularly structured. Specific manifestations are derived from a kind of construction kit and can, for example, be provided for the following use cases: TacNet Soldier for the mobile use of mounted and dismounted forces, TacNet Vehicle for mobile use especially in combat vehicles, TacNet Command for mobile and stationary use in command posts, and TacNet Rotary for use in rotary-wing aircraft for close air support. At AFCEA 2018, Rheinmetall will present TacNet Vehicle in more detail at their booth.

Gladius 2.0 - new generation soldier systems

For the first time at DSEI 2017, Rheinmetall presented its new soldier system Gladius 2.0, which is now also being introduced at AFCEA 2018. Gladius 2.0 is a consistent further development, based primarily on experiences gained in the Future Soldier - Expanded System (IdZ-ES) project. The "Basic" variant is the standard version for the soldier. It includes a smartphone as a command computer as standard, enabling participation in networked operations management. The Advanced version includes an extended equipment for military leaders. It includes a tablet and another radio device for connection to higher leadership levels. Gladius 2.0 is particularly characterized by high scalability and flexibility. Additional components can be easily integrated into all versions through "plug and play". The "Light" version complements the portfolio by offering special forces an ultra-light equipment.

PanoView - the innovative visual system for vehicle crews

The PanoView, first introduced in 2017, is a novel visual system that is particularly suitable for use in armored combat vehicles. It significantly contributes to improving situational awareness and leadership superiority. In this innovative approach, cameras mounted outside the vehicle transmit real-time images to goggles or a head-up display for the crew. The innovation lies in the quality and speed of the image processing technology. This allows crew members to "look outside" through the armor and also overlay situation information from the command system into the visual medium. Messages from other integrated sensors in the platform such as the Laser Warning System (LWS) or the Acoustic Sniper Location System (ASLS) can also complement the situational picture.

Rheinmetall looks forward to welcoming you to booth M05 at AFCEA in Bonn on April 11 and 12, 2018.

Rheinmetall on the Internet: www.rheinmetall-defense.com

The AFCEA 2018 on the internet: www.afcea.de