Tektronix R&D and testing grounds were much different from Fenix genetech labs. It was not unexpected Jacques thought, one dealt with electronics and robotics while the other dabbled in the less pleasant parts of genetic research. The immediate difference was obvious. While Fenix labs were clean and ordered, there was chaos here. Various electronic components were lying around and grease monkeys were hovering over them. Breaking them, merging them
making minor adjustments as they said. Jacques had no clue what the hell they were doing. It all seemed like an oversized garage to him.
The Tektronix representative in his slick black suit and with a hideous goatee and moustache didnt seem overly concerned by the Weapons Ambassadors inspection. Not that he had much reason to. The French government was extremely generous as of late when dealing with its various investments. It was beginning to annoy Jacques. He was starting to feel like an errand boy sent on all these inspections.
Stroking his goatee he replied Not much to see here. This is the dirty part of electronics development, where our products go into refinement for endurance purposes. I assure you the experimental technologies are developed in sterile labs equipped with computer assisted design and manufacturing.
Stepping on a pool of what Jacques guessed was oil he opened his mouth in distaste and said I sure hope so. Can we proceed to the testing ground for the scheduled demonstration? You and I both know FÉLIN is the real reason Im here.
Nodding the representative agreed Yes, yes, we are most pleased to present it. Follow me outside please.
They exited the garage and walked through a series of rather uninspiring corridors. Techies always seemed like a rather bland people to him, devoid of esthetic need or artistic desire. This seemed to confirm his personal thoughts. Finally they walked out into the green open field and the fresh air. He rather liked fresh air, but his job always had him confined into closed spaces.
The representative led him to a tower which thankfully had an elevator. He was a bit out of shape. A short ride later, they were on the top with a good view to the constructed urban warfare playground. Handing him a pair of binoculars he started to sell his product. Fantassin à Équipement et Liaisons Intégrés, Integrated Equipment and Communications Infantryman relies on the latest breakthrough in portable electronics to enhance and prepare todays soldier for modern warfare. SPECTRA helmet is fitted with real-time positioning and information system, and with light amplifiers for night vision.
Pressing a button on the control panel, the representative signaled to two engagement groups out in the field to begin. Jacques observed it all through his binocs.
He kept talking about the features of FÉLIN as the groups fought in the playground built to resemble a heavily contested urban area. It impressed him, and not only because it was the most tangible thing hes seen in the last few months from all the different projects he was assigned to supervise. They were truly beating the living daylights out of the regular group.
The wearable computer (PEP), the hub of FELIN system is built around a high speed processor and USB 2.0 high speed, open universal port interfaces which controls the energy and links with different components, such as imaging sensors, weapon, displays, radio etc. The computer is connected to a man-machine interface enabling the soldier to control the system and carry out operations such as firing around a corner or see through obstacles.
Normally he would have paid attention to what he was saying and made notes in his recently acquired PDA (a gift from Tektronix, which was no surprise), but he was especially focused on robotic additions of the FÉLIN group. There was a robotic mule that helped carry heavy weapons and equipment and ODIN, a mini UAV that used thermal sensors and aerial photography that revealed enemy positions. He suspected ODIN was of most use to the group.
The infantryman will use a small personal radio (RIF) transmitting voice and data communication. The RIF will be functional both in mounted or dismounted operations enabling GPS position tracking and information sharing within the squad and platoon. The communication bandwidth provided by the RIF is sufficient to pass operational graphics, imagery, maps and video sequences between team members and back to the higher echelon. They will operate with either all-in-one or sub-network architecture and interface with the fourth generation radio which remains the link between the dismounted platoon and the vehicles. As it is separated from the PEP computer, the radio will operate even in the event of computer breakdown.
Putting down his binoculars, he turned to the still babbling representative and punched him in the gut. That felt good. As he struggled to catch some air, Jacques said I have seen and indeed heard enough. I am thoroughly impressed with the work youve done. Your company will remain on government payroll. I will still need a report on those tiny death slash control robots however.
Huugh
you mean the nani.. he was trying to say still clutching his stomach when the Ambassadors smartphone sounded off. Jacques reached into his pocket and took it out. He got an SMS. It was from Rocard. Spinal shivers passed through him as he thought of going back to that place. All the message said was MY CREATION! ITS ALIVEEEEEE!!!