DEFENSE
Rheinmetall relies on Rugged Computing from Getac as Core Technology for the Soldier of the Future.
Getac MX50 and V110 as integrated components of the German Armed Forces’ IdZ-ES soldier system.
Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH, based in Bremen Germany, is one of Europe’s leading system integrators for networked soldier systems. As a subsidiary of the Rheinmetall Group – a global technology and defence company with over 30,000 employees and an annual turnover of around 10 billion euros – Rheinmetall Electronics, as the prime contractor, bears system responsibility for the German Armed Forces’ (German Bundeswehr) ‘Future Soldier – Extended System’ (IdZ-ES).
“The IdZ-ES connects infantrymen as digital nodes to one another and to military vehicle platforms within a comprehensive tactical command network. A system comprises around 34 individual soldier systems; equipped with a End User Device, battle management system, radio equipment, reconnaissance equipment, targeting optics, as well as clothing, protective and carrying equipment.
Challenge
Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH, based in Bremen Germany, a subsidiary of the Rheinmetall Group, is one of Europe’s leading system integrators for networked soldier systems. In February 2025, the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and Use of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and Rheinmetall Electronics signed the largest procurement contract to date for soldier systems. As part of this, a reliable and future-proof, rugged computing solution was sought for the ‘Future Soldier – Extended System’ (IdZ-ES), with high demands on the technology and usability of the device, but also on the supplier in terms of reliability, sustainability and investment security.
Solution
Following a comprehensive market assessment, Rheinmetall Electronics chose Getac as its technology partner. The collaboration has been in place since 2019 and has proven its worth across several procurement projects. Today, two Getac products are an integral part of the IdZ-ES system: the customized Getac MX50-OSC tablet and the Getac V110 convertible laptop.
Benefits
The result: a comprehensive solution that was available more quickly, is easier to carry, operates more energy-efficiently and, crucially, is accepted by soldiers during a mission. Since the introduction of the Getac solution are, over 1,000 Getac solutions already in active use by German Bundeswehr. More than 4,000 devices are planned to be deployed by mid-2027; a clear sign of the partnership’s operational success.
“In a defence programme of this scale, it is not just the product that counts – it is the reliability of the partner. Getac not only supplies rugged hardware that meets IP67 and MIL-STD requirements. Getac also provides the experience, supply chain reliability and product continuity that a programme like this requires.”
Jörg Bille
Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH