Soldier Systems - Advanced Development

The Soldier Systems - Advanced Development program (PE 0603827A) is a key Army Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on advancing the capabilities, survivability, and effectiveness of individual soldiers and small units. This program element supports the Army Modernization Priority of Soldier Lethality and funds advanced component development and prototyping efforts across a range of critical soldier support systems. The overarching goal is to manage the Soldier as a system, integrating emerging technologies and transitioning mature solutions from laboratory to operational use. These efforts are designed to enhance combat effectiveness, reduce risk, and save lives.

CF2: Integrated Soldier Systems Prototyping (SL CFT) is dedicated to developing a long-term integration platform for the Soldier/Squad as a System, in coordination with the Close Combat Integration Enterprise (CCIE). This project verifies and develops digital engineering tools such as the Adaptive Squad Architecture (ASA) and the Architecture Assessment Tool (AAT) to enable systems engineering, configuration management, and evaluation in both virtual and physical environments. The objective is to ensure interoperability of all dismounted soldier equipment and to provide a digital foundation for rapid integration and modernization planning. The project also supports the creation and annual update of the Soldier Modernization Plan, which guides Army efforts toward multi-domain operations through 2040 and beyond.

ET8: Personnel Airdrop System Development aims to enhance the safety, reliability, and performance of personnel parachute systems for both low and high-altitude insertions. The project focuses on integrating new canopy technologies, improving ancillary safety equipment, and addressing capability gaps in airborne operations. By transitioning advancements from science and technology partners, ET8 seeks to increase the insertion capability and survivability of airborne soldiers. The project also supports cross-service initiatives for commonality and standardization of equipment.

S53: Clothing and Equipment funds the evaluation, integration, and transition of advanced clothing and individual equipment technologies. The objective is to deliver modular, integrated uniform and equipment systems that enhance survivability, mobility, comfort, and affordability for soldiers in all operational environments, including arctic, jungle, and temperate climates. The program emphasizes the use of domestically available fabrics with flame resistance, moisture wicking, insect protection, and advanced camouflage. It also supports multi-service commonality, the elimination of PFAS chemicals, and the development of specialized gear for female soldiers.

S54: Small Arms Improvement supports the maturation, demonstration, and evaluation of emerging small and medium arms weapon systems and associated technologies. The program's goals include enhancing lethality, target acquisition, fire control, reliability, and training effectiveness, as well as developing counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) capabilities. S54 funds the development of new weapon systems, remote weapon station enhancements, advanced optics, fire control modules, and research into lightweight materials and advanced protection for optics. Congressional adds in FY 2024 supported the development of a fully integrated sight, laser range finder, and rifle integrated controller, all aimed at increasing operational effectiveness.

VS4: Soldier Protective Equipment is focused on optimizing personal protective equipment (PPE) to increase soldier survivability and mobility. The project evaluates and transitions new materials and construction methods for body armor, helmets, and eye protection, with an emphasis on reducing weight and improving protection against emerging threats. VS4 also develops and refines test methods, such as the Adaptable Testing and Load Assessment System (ATLAS), to ensure consistent and repeatable evaluation of PPE performance. The FY 2024 congressional add for tactical hearing protection aimed to improve integration of hearing protection with helmets and enhance auditory situational awareness.