Future Integrated Soldier Technology

The Future Integrated Soldier Technology (or FIST) sometimes incorrectly referred to as the Future Infantry System Technology or Future Infantry Soldier Technology is a project by the British Army, which aims to enhance the infantry's combat effectiveness in the 21st century as part of the Future Soldier project. The contract was awarded to Thales in March 2003.

The goal is to integrate a modular system of all equipment, weapons and their sighting systems, radios that the individual soldier carries or uses, in order to increase his overall effectiveness on the battlefield.

The programme is being managed by the Dismounted Close Combat Integrated Project Team at Defence Equipment and Support, MoD Abbey Wood in Bristol.

A major complement of the FIST project is the Bowman communications system, which gives secure communications to the troops on the ground, allowing for simultaneous transmission of voice and data and having built-in GPS equipment, as well as sending visual information direct from personal cameras.

The kit is aimed to cover 5 main areas:

Command and Control is aimed to improve fire team and local commanders' awareness of the situation. Lethality is as the name suggests and includes new weapon systems such as the new NLAW and Javelin anti tank weapons and the new sights for the SA80. Mobility includes areas such as route planning and GPS locations, survivability includes armour and stealth and sustainability includes areas such as power supplies with the system aiming to run off new next generation power cells.

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