Army consolidates computer hardware, software, sensors

The Army is acquiring a consolidated ruggedized computer system designed to help soldiers on-the-move to access important information.

The technology, called a Mounted Family of Computer Systems (MFoCS), synthesizes hardware components as well as software, sensors and communications equipment to provide a more seamless soldier computing experience.

Army program managers have said that the vision of MFoCS is to use a single tactical computer to run multiple applications. Army statements explain there are three building blocks to MFoCS; the basic configuration is a tablet using a 12, 15 or 17-inch display.

The tablets are ruggedized and operate on a 25-foot cable so soldiers inside a vehicle can pass the display around or even detach it and take it outside.

“MFoCS is the most advanced family of ultra-rugged computers and display systems engineered for military application, and it can be installed on every tactical platform variant in use by all of the services,” said Jerry Hathaway, vice president and general manager of DRS Land Electronics business.

Leonardo-DRS (an Italian-owned defense firm) have received $53 million in orders for the computers. MFoCS units are also being installed on military aircraft.