The Spanish Army has taken a significant step towards modernizing its capabilities with the recent test of the Soldier Combat System (SISCAP), developed by Indra and GMV. This system, designed to integrate soldiers into digitized environments, has been put to the test in an operational demonstration at the Infantry Academy in Toledo.
Technological Advances for the Soldier of the Future
The SISCAP is a modular, flexible, and scalable solution that will equip soldiers with advanced information, communication, and firepower technologies. Each soldier will have a helmet-mounted display that, through augmented reality, will allow them to visualize routes, positions of teammates, and receive tactical instructions about threats and objectives. Additionally, they will have daytime and nighttime visors, personal cameras (visible and thermal), and an advanced radio for satellite positioning and voice and data transmission.
Integration and Situational Awareness
One of the standout features of the SISCAP is its ability to integrate soldiers into a digital network, providing enhanced situational awareness. The standard weapon will incorporate sights and cameras that extend the range and precision of fire, allowing soldiers to see the weapon sight image on their helmet display, avoiding exposing themselves in dangerous situations. The system also includes controls to manage communications without releasing the rifle and to prevent friendly fire.
Operational Testing and Future Development
In exercises conducted last month, a platoon of legionnaires evaluated the system by simulating reconnaissance and surveillance missions, both day and night, as well as conducting shooting tests. The next test will include the presence of the 8×8 Dragon armored vehicle, which will act as a communications hub between the unit and the tactical command and control center.
The UTE Manager at Indra, Gregorio González, emphasizes that “the system will provide the soldier with the most advanced digital capabilities and provide them with a high-level situational awareness.” The modularity of the system allows for the addition of various functionalities, such as infrared cameras, laser designators, and microdrones, adapting to the specific needs of each mission.
International Collaboration and Future Projections
Indra and GMV have collaborated with the National Cybersecurity Excellence Center (NCCoE) and other European projects such as ACHILE and GOSSRA, funded by the European Commission, to develop this solution. The goal is to complete the first phase of development this year, delivering the first functional prototypes in platoon leader configuration, and subsequently manufacture a pre-series of 40 or 50 systems for evaluations in real operations. Large-scale production is projected for 2030.
About Indra
Indra is a global defense, aerospace, and technology company, a leader in digital transformation and information technologies in Spain and Latin America through its subsidiary Minsait. With a business model based on high-value products and innovation, Indra positions itself as the technological partner for the digitalization and key operations of its clients worldwide. In 2023, Indra generated revenues of 4.343 billion euros, employed over 57,000 people, and had a presence in 46 countries, with commercial operations in over 140 countries.