Written question asked by Jimmy Wray (Labour) on Wednesday, 27 November 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 20 January 2003. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Monday, 20 January 2003 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what progress has been made in the development of the FIST project; and what advantages it will offer to infantry soldiers.

Answer: Mr. Wray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what progress has been made in the development of the FIST project; and what advantages it will offer to infantry soldiers. [84850] Mr. Ingram: The final stage of a competition to choose a Prime Contractor for the Assessment Phase of the Future Integrated Soldier Technology (FIST) programme is currently underway, involving BAE Systems Ltd. and Thales Optronics Ltd. Selection of a single Prime Contractor is planned for early 2003. The FIST programme will bring the benefits of enhanced technology to the infantry soldier by providing an integrated suite of equipment. The programme will enhance the mission effectiveness of those soldiers committed to dismounted close combat, particularly in the areas of command and control of information, lethality, mobility, survivability and sustainability.

Secondary information