UK Dismounted Situational Awareness programme delayed

The British Army has been experimenting with the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK) battle management application installed on a Samsung phone as a potential option for the DSA programme. (ATAK)

The British Army's Dismounted Situational Awareness (DSA) programme is delayed, Janes learnt at SAE Group's Future Soldier Technology conference, being held from 11 to 13 March.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Gareth Davies, SO1 Combat Systems and Bearers, British Army, the delay is primarily because the DSA team has not yet received approval to proceed with procurement, as the army is questioning the submitted plan and requirements.

A requirements review is under way, led by Davies and his team, with support from Army Futures.

The necessary approvals may not be received until next year, he said, adding that it will principally delay the Tactical Radio Sub-Lot competition under DSA, which was projected to go live to suppliers in the third quarter (Q3) of 2023.

The delay to the DSA programme primarily stems from concerns about risk and ensuring the army selects the most suitable solution. In addition, the upcoming general election, expected by the end of the year, is impacting the programme, Davies said.

One of the requirements currently being debated is whether to opt for a Long-Term Evolution (LTE)-based solution, given its operational application in the Ukraine conflict. However, he questioned the assurance and potential risk of adopting such a capability.