Over the years, we have been obsessed learning about the future soldier program by the United States and other Western Armies, especially NATO members. Rarely do we hear about similar programs from non-U.S. or non-NATO countries. In this case, what people in the West are considering again the Big Bad Bear, Russia, are now starting to deploy their own future soldier combat system to their units.

Some of us have been following the Ratnik combat system, which is the program developed by the Russians to match the future soldier programs of the USA and allies. This is comprised of body armor, sighting systems (thermal, IR, night vision, and lighting), and communications with special headset. The system was officially adapted by the Russian Armed Forces as of October 2014 with a 3-year contract for TSNIITOCHMASH to supply the kits.

The Ratnik is said to have a body armor system that protects about 90% of the soldiers body, which includes protection for arms and legs. Together with the other equipment, a typical Ratnik-equipped soldier will be carrying almost 20 kilograms. It is also a modular system and thus, soldiers can put together the system that will be more fitting for their combat roles, including those serving in the Russian Navy where the armor protection also comes equipped with a life vest. There is also an export version of the system. Most will be equipped with the AK-12 assault rifle.

The system also allows the soldiers to communicate with UAVs for intelligence gathering, better tactical communications, and with the high level of automation helping speed up decision making whilst in combat.

In a news release by Rostec Corporation, the first batch of the Ratnik is now arriving to Russian Army units. quoting Dmitry Semizorov, CEO of TSNIITOCHMASH, in a meeting with reporters. Also mentioned in the news release is that "testing is currently underway for equipment kits designed for reconnaissance troops, snipers, gunners, mechanics, drivers, and gunners of airborne combat vehicles."

The Russian military shall expect to receive 50,000 kits per year, though the order can be increased to 70,000 kits per year if need be.

For those who put together Russian loadouts for airsoft and milsim events, it's time to do some updating with the gear to be current with Russian uniforms and gear. Now we need to wait for an airsoft version of the AK-12.