Petawawa Post

Karina Gould, Minister of Democratic Institutions, met with members of the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment in August to highlight new equipment being delivered as part of the Integrated Soldier System (ISS) Project.

The ISS is cutting-edge technology that includes smartphone-like devices built into a wearable vest with integrated communications equipment and accessories.

It will allow soldiers to see, in real-time, where other connected soldiers are. This will improve situational awareness, allowing them to stay better connected with their teams and their chain of command during operations.

This technology is considered one of the most advanced available, making Canada a leader in this field. It is a prime example of how the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is evolving with technology to improve its operations and to support soldiers.

“I was pleased to meet members of the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment at Garrison Petawawa today to see this new equipment in action,” said Gould. “The Integrated Soldier System Project is impressive in terms of what it can do and I am certain this new system will provide our soldiers with a key capability needed to effective carry out future operations.”

Rheinmetall Canada was awarded a contract to deliver 4144 systems as part of the ISS Project. Deliveries of the equipment began in March 2018, and will continue in three phases. The first is the wearable vest with integrated communications equipment and accessories. The next phase will see the equipment connected to army vehicles and integrated with additional equipment such as sensors. The last phase will incorporate any new technology that is added. With these systems, soldiers will have the ability to generate reports, send messages, and share information.

“As Strong, Secure, Engaged highlights, technology is a critical enabler of modern military and fundamental to every type of operation we expect the CAF to conduct,” said Defence Minister Sajjan. “The Integrated Soldier Systems are advanced, easy to use technology that will keep our people better informed and safe by allowing them to communicate more efficiently in real time.”

During the visit, Minister Gould also took the opportunity to discuss the service and sacrifice made by members of the CAF and their families. She met with serving CAF personnel, military family members, as well as municipal representatives Petawawa Mayor Bob Sweet and Pembroke Mayor Mike LeMay. In addition, she made a stop at the Veterans Affairs Canada Centre in Pembroke to thank staff for the hard work they do to support CAF Veterans.