Networked rifles from Colt Canada enable data exchange with C2 platforms
ProductMay 31, 2014
Engineers at Colt Canada are integrating their Variable Message Format (VMF) interface from General Dynamics Canada into the Soldier Weapon & Observer Reconnaissance Devices (SWORD) system to improve Command and Control (C2) communications. This will extend the data exchange capability dow...
Engineers at Colt Canada are integrating their Variable Message Format (VMF) interface from General Dynamics Canada into the Soldier Weapon & Observer Reconnaissance Devices (SWORD) system to improve Command and Control (C2) communications. This will extend the data exchange capability down to the dismounted soldier. SWORD was created as an alternative to radio-centric individual soldier systems. It marries ruggedized smartphone technology with weapon-mounted surveillance and targeting devices, enabling situational awareness data to be sent directly to the warfighter via their weapon. Integrating VMF into the SWORD system will enable compatibility with higher-level C2 systems such as Canada’s Land Command Support System (LCSS). VMF is a standard method that has been adopted by several nations, including Canada, to provide critical information directly to soldiers, according to General Dynamics Canada.
The system is based on Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) components and enables power, data, and navigation infrastructure inside the weapon, such as GPS and inertial navigation for GPS-denied situations. The networked rifles are now enhanced with modern smartphone technology and an ability to host battle management applications. The smartphone capability provides a familiar interface for soldiers – most of whom own a smartphone.
