The Bundeswehr is digitalizing its soldiers. Yesterday, March 19, the press service of the German Defense Ministry reported that the Panzergrenadier system was recognized as suitable for combat and will go to the troops.
The Panzergrenadier is a synergy of the latest version of the IdZ-ES individual military equipment and the latest modification of the Puma IFV. Last year, tests of the system revealed a number of shortcomings, but a repeated three-day test conducted in February showed the full combat capability of the Panzergrenadier.
Presentation of the Panzergrenadier system
The Panzergrenadier system will be equipped with the Panzergrenadierbataillon 112 unit, which will become part of the NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF) by 2023. VJTF units were organized in 2014 to counter Russia.
Landing from the Puma BMP
Image source: bundeswehr.de
The IdZ-ES equipment combines uniforms, armor protection, weapons, communications, and electronic systems. A special computer, which is attached to the back of the soldier along with a set of batteries, controls a set of sensors, displays and optical devices, uniting the military in a single network and allowing them to communicate with the headquarters and other units. In addition, the IdZ-ES equipment allows you to identify objects on the battlefield, determine the location of allies and opponents, and conduct target designation. The IdZ-ES system is designed in such a way that it allows you to adapt the set of weapons and clothing to different climatic conditions.