Networked rifles from Colt Canada now enable data exchange with C2 platforms
NewsMay 27, 2014
OTTAWA, Ontario. General Dynamics Canada engineers are integrating their Variable Message Format (VMF) interface into the Soldier Weapon & Observer Reconnaissance Devices (SWORD) system from Colt Canada. 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 command and control (C2) systems such as Canada’s Land Command Support System (LCSS).
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.
SWORD will be on display at the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI) CANSEC show being held in Ottawa May 28-29, 2014.
