Blücher is a development partner and subsystem supplierin a number of future soldier system programmes, including IdZ. – “the Infantryman of the Future“. This is the Bundeswehr (German Federal Armed Forces) programme which is part
of the project “Future Soldier“. The „IdZ“ system is based on modular combat equipment employing the most modern technology with the aim of enhancing the basic performance of infantry personnel: increased operational effectiveness,
survivability, tactical capability, endurance and mobility.

The IdZ project consists of two stages: the basic system (BS) as delivered until the end of 2007 and the extended system (ES). The first systems were delivered on 1. July 2004 following two years of trials with the troops. The SARATOGA® combat suit developed by Blücher with integrated CBRN protection is no longer designed as an over-garment, but instead is worn in place of the normal combat suit. This makes it the world’s first combat suit with integrated protection against chemical and biological weapons. The protective suit, permeable gloves and ALO
overboots are all included in the IdZ. basic system.

Both the shell as well as the filter material are specially matched, according to individual requirements. Only a combination of the relevant properties of the shell and filter material ensure the perfect protective function of the suit. 24 hour protection against 10 g/m2 liquid HD, GD, at least six hours of protection against 4.000 mg · min/m3 gaseous HD. Only SARATOGA® meets the requirement of 45 days of wear time. The suit can be stored in the original packaging for up to 15 years, washed up to six times at 40 °C and de-contaminated up to five times without diminishing the required protective effect.