Tomorrow's reality in defense electronics

SAE 100 Future look: From space-based satellite communications systems to rifles equipped with laser and thermal imaging sights, electronics has integrated itself as a core ingredient of contemporary warfare.

During the next quarter-century, Forecast International believes that the fields of communications, intelligence, computers, avionics, radars, lasers, electro-optical systems, and sensors will leap forward so dramatically that today's most advanced systems will seem prehistoric by comparison.

Only a few decades ago, the high level of sophistication of today's defense electronics systems existed only in the realm of science fiction. In 1959, Robert Heinlein wrote the novel Starship Troopers that described infantry soldiers outfitted with computers, communications, optics, and sensor systems that gave them superiority over the enemy in battle by providing them with information while on the move. This story has practically become the blueprint for the future, as several major systems are currently under development worldwide that will offer these features: the Dutch Dismounted Soldier System (D²S²) for the Netherlands, the Fantassin àà Equipements et Liaisons Intéégréés (FELIN) for France, the Future Integrated Soldier Technology (FIST) system for the UK, the 21st Century Land Warrior for the U.S., the Future Infantryman for Germany, the Integrated Protective and Clothing Ensemble (IPCE) for Canada, and the Soldier Combat System (LAND 125) for Australia.