Germany has awarded Rheinmetall Electronics a contract worth 1.04 billion euros ($1.2 billion) to supply additional Infantry Soldier of the Future – Enhanced System (IdZ-ES) kits to its armed forces.
The contract includes the procurement of 237 new platoon systems along with upgrades to existing IdZ-ES equipment. This package will equip around 8,600 soldiers, raising total deliveries to 353 platoon systems and approximately 12,000 individual soldier kits. Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2029.
The IdZ-ES is a digitally networked soldier system designed to improve coordination between mounted and dismounted units. Each platoon system comprises 35 soldier systems, integrating protective gear, weapon attachments, navigation tools, optics, optronics, and communication systems.
These components are connected through an Interconnected Command, Control, Communications, and Computer (C4) unit operated by team leaders. The upgraded architecture enhances real-time data exchange between troops, Boxer armored vehicles, Puma infantry fighting vehicles, and future aerial platforms.
This latest contract builds on a 2025 framework agreement valued at up to 3.1 billion euros ($3.6 billion), with completion targeted by 2030. Currently, 68 platoon systems are in service, while 24 more are in the acquisition phase. Rheinmetall also confirmed that over 30 subcontractors are supporting the program.
