IDEX 2019: Rheinmetall revolutionizes field communications


Given the rise of asymmetric threats targeting military and critical infrastructure, reinforcing assets with actionable intelligence is a must. At IDEX 2019, Rheinmetall was highlighting its status as a leading supplier of command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, targeting, acquisition and reconnaissance (C4ISTAR) capabilities with its groundbreaking Rheinmetall Command and Control Software (RC2S). This software is fully integrated with the Vingtaqs II, the Fieldranger Multi-weapon station, and the Argus soldier system – to name just a few – for optimized military operations.


IDEX 2019 Rheinmetall revolutionizes field communications
Rheinmetall's Command and Control Software (RC2S) software is fully integrated with the Vingtaqs II, the Fieldranger Multi-weapon station, and the Argus soldier system (Picture source: Army Recognition)


At its core, Rheinmetall’s RC2S processes, correlates, and filters information to make sense of large amounts of disparate data. One of the software’s greatest strengths is its ability to enhance situational awareness and expedite the decision-making process using cutting-edge technology.

RC2S features video analytics for highly detailed input while adding valuable metadata – including sensor field of view, target range, and target coordinates – to the imagery provided by the sensors. This information is displayed on the operator’s monitors in real time. As they receive key data and video feeds from various sensors, operators can also contribute to improving the effectiveness of on-the-ground assets by sending vital information their way.

This system facilitates bilateral data exchange. Thanks to RC2S, soldier systems can quickly and easily send videos to their HQ for rich situational awareness – all they need is an unit equipped with the necessary sensors (such as micro UAV). RC2S – linked with a soldier system – also has the ability to share Blue PA, tactical symbols and pictures to the troops on a mission for greater understanding of the situation.

Rheinmetall’s C4ISTAR capabilities include the integration of a wide variety of sensor platforms that improve the way information is collected, received, amalgamated and transmitted, enabling commanding officers to achieve tactical superiority when they need it most. Featuring a very high standard of scalability, Rheinmetall solutions are fully adaptable to client needs and can be used on land, at sea and in the air.

The Canadian government recently awarded Rheinmetall a major support contract relating to intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR). This contract is intended to support the country’s land command, control, communication, computing, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) programme. As the prime contractor, Rheinmetall Canada is also slated to provide ISTAR in-service support services.