Soldier Systems - Warrior Dem/Val

The Soldier Systems - Warrior Dem/V al program, managed under Army RDT&E PE 0604827A, is a comprehensive effort to modernize and enhance the operational capabilities of dismounted Soldiers and small units. The overarching goal is to address power, energy, and situational awareness gaps created by the proliferation of advanced, portable electronic systems. This program supports Army Modernization Priorities, focusing on research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) of technologies that enable longer mission durations, reduce logistical burdens, and improve lethality and survivability for small units in multi-domain and austere environments.

The Integrated Soldier Power Data System - Core (ISPDS-C) is a foundational line item within this program. Its objectives include developing and integrating advanced power and data management devices, energy storage solutions, wearable fuel cells, and power scavenging technologies. These efforts are designed to support critical Soldier-worn systems such as tactical radios, night vision devices, weapon sensors, and heads-up displays. ISPDS-C aims to enable Soldiers and squads to operate more efficiently and independently, with fewer battery resupplies and reduced physical burden. The project also incorporates vehicular on-the-move charging and evaluates new battery chemistries and protective materials. Acquisition strategies range from commercial off-the-shelf solutions to competitive developmental contracts.

The Universal Battery Charger (UBC) addresses the need for versatile charging solutions for handheld communication devices and military batteries. The UBC is designed for use at the company level and below, supporting both mounted and dismounted operations. Its capability to draw power from multiple sources including wall outlets, vehicles, generators, and solar panels enables Soldiers to sustain longer missions with fewer resupply requirements. The program focuses on developing next-generation bulk charging systems and integrating power-on-the-move technologies. Ongoing test and evaluation activities ensure operational effectiveness and reliability.

The Soldier Borne Sensor (SBS) is a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that provides near-term solutions for situational awareness, air-ground reconnaissance, and joint maneuver at the infantry squad level. SBS is designed for rapid deployment and ease of use, allowing Soldiers to gain local situational understanding while remaining concealed. The program is structured in multiple phases, with ongoing development and integration of advanced autonomy, obstacle avoidance, edge processing, and interoperability with other Soldier systems. Funding supports qualification, testing, and incorporation of science and technology advances, aligning with Army Transformation Initiatives.

The Lethal Semi-Autonomous Aerial Unmanned System - Engineering Development (LS2) focuses on the development and acquisition of Low Altitude Strike and Stalk Ordnance (LASSO) capabilities. The goal is to provide Infantry Brigade Combat Teams (IBCTs) with organic, immediate, and precise firepower against armored and hardened targets, while minimizing collateral damage. The program emphasizes engineering and integration of Fire Control Stations, All-Up Round munitions, and system architecture, leveraging lessons from current global conflicts. Funding supports technology evaluations, hardware development, and rapid prototyping, with realignment to a dedicated funding line for continued advancement.

The Platoon Power Generator (PPG) supports the demonstration and development of portable power generation solutions for small units. The objective is to enable platoons to sustain power demands for 48 to 72-hour missions, charging batteries and powering communications and electronics equipment in environments where vehicle support is unavailable. The program includes engineering, manufacturing, and development of fuel cell technologies, as well as studies to optimize reliability and operational life of spark-ignited generators. The acquisition strategy leverages open competition and commercial off-the-shelf solutions, with ongoing prototyping, testing, and design optimization.