21st Century soldier

The "21st Century soldier" (Czech: Voják 21. století) is Czech Future Soldier military project. The agreement of Czech Ministry of Defence and VOP-026 Šternberk about the future soldier program was signed in 2004.

Main features of system

 * Lethality
 * C4I capability
 * Increased survival capability
 * Mobility

Weapon system
The rifle, machine gun, sniper rifle of soldier's choice with modular CCD/IR system, laser rangefinder and digital compass mounted on weapon and connected to soldier's FCS. This system is supposed to improve soldier's fire accuracy and ability to quickly share enemies coordinates with friendly soldiers thanks to radio datalink and GPS receiver.

C4I
This subsystem gives ability to receive, transmit, process and save data. This subsystem contains communication devices and miniaturized computer. Communication system is used for data/voice communication with other soldiers or vehicles. The leader of the squad will be equipped with two radio stations and one wide touch screen.

Outfit
Outfit consists from uniform that will decrease visible and infrared signatures and low weight ballistic protection vest. Protection mask and suit against WMD. Eyes protection against laser, laser illumination warner, reconnaissance radar and health status sensors.

Helmet
Includes small helmet display and one helmet-mounted night vision camera. The display is used to display IR/CCD picture from weapon or helmet camera, digital maps, to display its position or friendly/enemy forces position or computer interface and video or photos.

Project progress
The functional prototype was created on the end of 2005. The final system is supposed to enter service in 2012.