Russian Armed Forces tested new Future Soldier equipment Ratnik during Caucasus-2012 3003122.

"Soldiers have started intensive trials of elements of the equipment, including for riflemen, scouts, mechanic-drivers, as part of military trials exercises. We also intend to carry out unit trials based on these systems," Donyushkin told reporters here.

Ratnik (“Warrior”) comprises more than 40 components, including firearms, body armor, optic, communication and navigation devices, life support and power supply systems and even knee and elbow pads.

The equipment, being tested by a motor-infantry brigade at a firing range in the Moscow region, contains about 40 different parts, local media quoted the spokesman as saying. Ratnik was also tested during recent Caucasus-2012 command post exercise, the officer said. Tests are also ongoing at Alabino testing grounds outside Moscow.

It includes various information and communications systems, navigators, life-supporting devices, eye-protective glasses, ear- plugs, thermal bodywear, body armor and others.

Russia negotiated with France last year about purchasing a batch of French FELIN infantry systems for evaluation. FELIN is a modular infantry combat suite offering efficient ergonomics, autonomy and weight saving for a serviceman.

Russian Chief of Staff General Nikolai Makarov said later that Russia would develop its own soldier's equipment program.