In the early 90s, almost all countries of the world began to introduce new computer technologies in the management of armies. The main purpose of such implementations was to increase the combat effectiveness of the armed forces, not only in terms of technology, but also to enhance the role of the infantryman on the battlefield. With the use of computer technology, the infantry has increased vitality, mobility and destructive power. The most famous program is "Land Warrior", which in 2000 was first tested in the American army. According to the developers, the main goal of the program should be high control over the situation and timely information about all changes on the battlefield, which will allow the infantryman to use the existing stop correctly and make the right decisions.
The "Land Warrior" system includes the ability to display digital maps, images and other information through the TWS thermal imaging sights installed on the weapon. The set of military equipment includes a video camera, a display, an M4 automatic rifle with a TWS sight. The soldiers admitted that the additional features of the program, such as the ability to transmit not only voice messages, but also data transmission, a laser distance meter, and a computer compass, became very useful.
The introduction of computer technology systems makes it possible to fight in various weather conditions, and regardless of the enemy's line of sight, a soldier can perform a combat mission, having all the necessary information about the presence of the enemy and his weapons. The battlefield is an example of a complex computer game in real time and with real characters. Unit commanders can monitor their subordinates and coordinate their movements and give instructions depending on the course of the battle.
Tests of the program showed a huge advantage of soldiers with “Land Warrior” equipment over ordinary infantrymen. The results of fire training demonstrated a high level of aimed shooting and a high percentage of hits on the target.
To date, the use of the "Land Warrior" program has been suspended, this is due to the discovery of many flaws in the program. One of the main drawbacks was the low speed when updating the map and the general slowness of the program. The use of a large amount of equipment led to an increase in the weight of the equipment of the infantrymen and, accordingly, the physical load on the human body. Huge complaints were also caused by the low service life of components and devices, especially the battery.
Considering all the shortcomings, "Land Warrior" was the impetus for the development of computer systems to increase the combat ability of the infantry, who are the main participants in the battle. Many companies are showing interest in the development and implementation of new technologies in the army. On a commercial basis, advanced combat systems are being developed based on new computer developments. In particular, the tablet computer should come to replace the heavy and not always practical "Land Warrior" parts and devices that were used in the original version.
