Projects-14

Boeing Future Combat Systems (FCS)

Project Overview: Future Combat Systems (FCS) aims to be an integrated structure of manned and unmanned, both air and ground nodes, which are connected to a single network allowing them to act as a unified combat force. FCS will eventually replace units of troops with Units of Action. A Unit of Action will be a network of technologies that can strike, fire, and maneuver without putting soldiers in danger. Although funded through the Army, Boeing, in partnership with SAIC, has been chosen as the Lead System Integrator (LSI) for the program.

CenGen Inc has been supporting the FCS LSI and is currently helping with the system design and demonstration phase.


The FCS network system will consist of 18 individual systems, the main network, and the individual troops. With each soldier acting as a node in the network, soldiers will be able to have secure communications. There will also be an enhanced situational awareness that will help decision makers in evaluating and deciding on the best plan of action. The common operating picture will allow troops access to information regarding terrain, enemy positions, and friendly positions.


The FCS program will be completed in three phases. The first phase, which was completed in 2003, involved developing a concept and developing technology. The current phase focuses on system design and demonstration. Lastly, the FCS Units of Action will go to production. Currently the army’s goal is to begin deploying Units of Action by 2010.