INDIVIDUAL EQUIPMENT and understanding to the dismounted sol- flexible form factor that can accommodate AND WEAPONS dier, allowing faster and more accurate de- the shooter’s preference method of em- cision making in the tactical fight. Nett ploying the system with the variety of dif- The soldier is the Army’s most deployed Warrior reduces time on target, greatly re- ferent mission profiles and soldier config- combat system and the most essential ducing the risk of fratricide; allows for im- urations. weapon in the Army’s arsenal. Program mediate feedback of battlefield effects; re- NW entered the technology development Executive Office (PEO) Soldier was acti- duces the use of voice communication; phase in February 2009 and recently vated in October 2002 to equip the soldier clears the fog of battle by displaying a real- achieved Milestone C. During fiscal year as a system through centralized develop- time common operating picture (COP); and (FY) 2012, the program was scheduled to ment, acquisition, fielding and sustain- provides immediate command and control. award low-rate initial production contracts. ment of virtually everything the soldier The centerpiece capability of NW is the wears or carries. ability to graphically display the individ- Product Manager Air Warrior PEO Soldier is the first organization in ual soldier’s location on a digital map. Ad- Air Warrior (AW) is a modular, inte- U.S. Army history to be charged with the ditional soldiers’ locations are also graphi- grated, rapidly reconfigurable combat air- mission to treat the soldier as a system. All cally displayed through the Army Battle crew ensemble that saves lives and maxi- aspects of soldier equipment are inte- Command System, connected via a secure mizes Army aircrew mission performance. grated, modular, interoperable and mis- radio that sends and receives information. More than 20,000 Army aircrew members sion-tailorable. This focused effort has led The system also connects the combat sol- have been equipped with the system. AW to the most lethal and survivable ground dier to higher-echelon data and informa- increases personal protection and mission force in modern warfare. tion products to assist the soldier in deci- performance and consists of a primary sion making and situational understanding. survival gear carrier that includes first aid, Project Manager Soldier Warrior All of this is integrated in a graphical user survival, signaling and communications Project Manager Soldier Warrior (PM interface that is user-defined, allowing sol- equipment; body armor tailored for the SWAR) supports soldiers through the ac- diers to easily see, understand and interact unique requirements of the aircrew mem- quisition of integrated soldier systems. in the method that best suits the user and ber; the aircrew integrated helmet system Current systems include Nett Warrior (for- his particular mission. including a Communication Enhance- merly Ground Soldier), Air Soldier, Soldier The physical subcomponents of NW in- ment and Protection System (CEPS) that Power, and Tactical Communication and clude a display to provide the soldier’s in- provides a helmet hear-through capability; Protective Systems. Project Manager Sol- formation, a computer to process and pop- over-water survival equipment, including dier Warrior’s product managers and di- ulate the information on the screen, an personal flotation, an emergency escape rectors develop and integrate components interface device that allows user interac- breathing device, and body-mounted life into complete systems designed to in- tion with the system, a power source, an raft; and the Microclimate Cooling Sys- crease combat effectiveness, decrease com- operating system to provide the system tem (MCS), a mix of platform-mounted bat load and improve mission flexibility. functionality to run tactical applications and soldier-mounted cooling gear that in- and Battle Command, and a networked ra- creases mission endurance under extreme Product Manager Ground Soldier dio transmitter/receiver device to send heat by more than 350 percent. The MCS Nett Warrior (NW) builds upon Land and receive information. As an integrated has been adopted for use by ground forces Warrior as an integrated dismounted sol- system on the combat soldier, size and including Stryker, Abrams, Bradley, M9 dier situational awareness system for use weight are kept to a minimum with the ACE, Navy, Marine Corps and foreign mil- during combat operations. The system pro- ruggedness for combat operations includ- itaries, with more than 16,000 systems vides unparalleled situational awareness ing water immersion. NW has a slim and fielded to date. The Portable Helicopter Oxygen Delivery System (PHODS) is a soldier-worn system that delivers com- Air Warrior Electronic pressed oxygen from a lightweight steel Data Manager (EDM) bottle attached to the Air Warrior vest. The system provides oxygen via a nasal can- nula up to 18,000 feet and via a mask at al- titudes above 18,000 feet. More than 3,000 PHODS have been fielded. The Electronic Data Manager (EDM) is a touchscreen, kneeboard computer that enables the air- crew member to quickly plan missions and react to mission changes in flight. The EDM, compatible with night-vision gog- gles and readable in direct sunlight, fea- tures a moving map, Blue Force Tracking, and a new terrain and obstacle avoidance capability expected to achieve airworthi- ness certification in FY 2012. More than 2,700 EDM systems have been fielded to the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and foreign militaries. The Encrypted Aircraft Wire- less Intercom System (EAWIS) provides encrypted, hands-free wireless aircrew communications for nonrated aircrew mem- bers requiring mobility inside and in the immediate vicinity of the aircraft. EAWIS provides the first true aircraft intercom ca-

364 ARMY I October 2012 pability for medical evacuation helicopter personnel during rescue hoist missions and consists of an aircraft-mounted inter- face unit and mobile equipment units worn by the crewmember. The Survival Kit, Ready Access, Modular (SKRAM) gives aircrews readily accessible carriage of a 72-hour suite of life-support equip- ment in a flame-retardant, modular and configurable backpack, including supple- mental survival gear for extreme environ- mental conditions. The Air Soldier program formally en- tered into the engineering and manufac- turing development phase in December 2011 with a requirement to reduce aircrew member weight and bulk while improving safety and situational awareness and mis- sion duration. Air Soldier capabilities will be fielded in two increments, with the first delivery of capability in FY 2015, which in- cludes: Common Helmet Mounted Display System with integrated head tracking, providing all Army aviators (except AH- 64 Apache) with critical day/night flight and 3-D Degraded Visual Environment Survival Equipment Subsystem (SES) flight symbology (Apache aviators will be equipped in the second increment of Air cal/biological protective garment, survival ergy, power distribution, power manage- Soldier); Lightweight Environmental Con- vest components, and cold water immer- ment, and power storage solutions that are trol System delivering a cooling capability sion protective garments. lightweight and soldier-portable/wear- to OH-58D aviators previously unavailable The second and final delivery of Air Sol- able. The type of gear carried into battle by due to the space, weight and power con- dier capability in FY 2018 will fully replace soldiers in the past had a low power re- straints inherent in the Kiowa Warrior; and the Air Warrior and will include: Wide quirement that could be addressed with a soldier-worn Integrated Soldier Power and Field of View/High Resolution Helmet small amount of conventional batteries. As Data System (ISPDS)—a smart, on-aircraft Mounted Display incorporating 3-D DVE technologies mature and new power-con- rechargeable, single source of extended du- symbology for AH-64 Apache aviators; Ra- suming systems get added onto the cur- ration power for all aircrew-worn electron- dio Interface Control Module (RICM), rent soldier load, the Army needs to ad- ics. Developed through teamwork with the which combines the functionality of, and re- dress how to reduce that load and Product Director Soldier Power, the ISPDS places, the soldier-worn Encrypted Aircraft eliminate the logistical footprint associated eliminates the need to wear and carry sepa- Wireless Intercom System transceiver and with battery resupply. rate sets and types of batteries and spares. Combat Survivor Evader Locator survival The Soldier Worn Integrated Power Sys- Air Soldier also includes Personal Elec- radio, and adds a wireless data capability; tem (SWIPES) provides a central power tronics Control and Display System (PE Enhanced Laser Eye Protection (ELEP), source for extended mission duration when CDS), consisting of a Personal Display providing increased wavelength protection used with the ergonomic soldier-worn con- Module (PDM), Soldier Computer Mod- in a spectacle or visor configuration; Inte- formal battery, while reducing the numbers ule (SCM), and Mission Display Module grated Protective Ensemble (IPE), which and varieties of batteries carried by the (MDM). The PDM is worn by the soldier fully replaces the legacy Air Warrior gear soldier. The SWIPES system can provide and is the single user interface and dis- carriage and body armor system. The IPE power for up to four devices including (but mounted display for all body-mounted reduces weight and bulk by using electro- not limited to) a radio via a smart charging electronic equipment. The PDM reduces textile technology to eliminate heavy electri- pouch, a USB hub to power any USB de- bulk and weight by eliminating the need cal power/data cabling, eliminating the vice, a defense advanced global positioning for separate hardware control and display body-mounted raft, reducing the size and system (GPS) receiver (DAGR) and an end components. The SCM provides a single weight of breathing devices, and integrating user device such as Nett Warrior. processing and data storage device for all personal flotation into the IPE. The Soldier Power Manager is a light- soldier-worn electronics and reduces bulk weight, portable power management sys- and weight by replacing separate compo- Product Director Soldier Power tem that can use power from primary bat- nent processors. The aircraft-mounted Product Director Soldier Power is a vi- teries and manage power from solar, vehicle MDM replaces the Air Warrior EDM in the tal enabler for operations, essential for pa- and fuel cell sources. nondigitized rotary-wing fleet and inter- trols and required for soldier sustainment. The Rucksack Enhanced Portable Power faces with platform sensors for mission ex- Providing energy-alternative capabilities System is a solar power energy system that ecution, including situational awareness and interoperability builds flexibility and can provide power to the individual or and command-and-control messaging resilience through the increased ability to team and can be carried in an assault pack. through Blue Force Tracking. A Layered respond to changes in operational de- The Modular Universal Battery Charger Clothing Ensemble (LCE) introduces an mands and a greater ability to adapt to (MUBC) with a 120-watt solar blanket active heating capability and reduces the changes in the operational environment. weighs approximately 6 pounds and bulk and weight of the current AW aircrew These capabilities include soldier power brings recharging forward for the entire flexible body armor, cooling vest, chemi- sources, power scavenging, renewable en- networked squad in a Tier 1 environment.

October 2012 I ARMY 365 This charger will reduce and potentially pairments for veterans receiving disability ability to see through fog, dust and foliage eliminate the need to return to the forward benefits were hearing-related. Annual pay- that obscure vision. This thermal capabil- operating base for recharging. The MUBC ments for such conditions exceeded $1.1 ity makes the ENVG, unlike earlier night- will allow the warfighter to extend his mis- billion.” vision devices, useful during the day as sion duration without being tethered to a The Rapid Fielding Initiative is presently well as at night. logistics battery resupply. issuing an early version of TCAPS to de- The AN/PVS-14 Monocular Night Vi- The 1KW JP8 Generator allows the ploying units. The TCAPS program of sion Device (MNVD) is a head- or helmet- warfighter to use existing logistics infra- record will seek to offer a lighter, more inter- mounted passive device that amplifies am- structure while providing a lightweight, operable, nonradio-dependent materiel so- bient light and very near infrared energy manportable solution. The Army is devel- lution. Milestone C is planned for FY 2013. to enable night operations. The system is oping a multifuel-compatible capability. designed for use in conjunction with rifle- The Conformal Battery is an ergonomic Project Manager Soldier Sensors and mounted aiming lights. soldier-worn battery that provides a central Lasers (PM SSL) The AN/AVS-6 Aviator’s Night Vision source of power for a variety of soldier- Project Manager Soldier Sensors and Imaging System (ANVIS) is a third-gen- worn capabilities. The ergonomic engineer- Lasers (PM SSL) provides soldier-borne eration, helmet-mounted, direct-view, im- ing of the conformal battery provides the sensors and lasers that enhance the sol- age-intensification device that enables avi- warfighter with a lightweight power source dier’s ability to see and dominate in all ators to operate more effectively and safely that shares space with existing equipment battlefield and lighting conditions, to ac- during low-light and degraded battlefield on the soldier’s combat uniform. quire objects of military significance before conditions. The low-light sensitivity repre- The Tactical Communication and Pro- the soldier is detected, and to target threat sents a 35 to 40 percent improvement over tective System (TCAPS) provides concur- objects accurately for engagement by sol- the earliest ANVIS. In addition, the gated rent hearing protection and auditory situa- diers or guided munitions. These systems power supply enables operation at signifi- tional awareness. Historically, soldiers had provide critical, on-the-ground direct sup- cantly higher light levels than any of the to choose between hearing protection and port to U.S. forces. previous designs. force protection. As a combat force multi- The AN/PAS-13 Thermal Weapon Sight plier, TCAPS maintains hearing protection Product Manager Soldier Maneuver (TWS) gives soldiers with individual and while enabling soldiers to use existing tac- Sensors (PM SMS) crew-served weapons the capability to see tical radios, resulting in increased mission Product Manager Soldier Maneuver deep into the battlefield, increase surveil- effectiveness, safety and survivability. Sensors (PM SMS) is responsible for de- lance and target acquisition range, and Active hearing-protection technology veloping and equipping the soldier with penetrate obscurants, day or night. The coupled with hearing-attenuation technol- sensors and lasers to help dominate the TWS systems use uncooled, forward-look- ogy enables soldiers wearing TCAPS to battlefield through improved lethality, mo- ing infrared (FLIR) technology and provide hear in steady-state and impulse environ- bility, and survivability in all weather and a standard video output for training or re- ments. TCAPS’ ambient-sound capability visibility conditions. mote viewing. Thermal weapon sights are provides soldiers with localized, 360-de- The AN/PSQ-20 Enhanced Night Vi- lightweight systems that are mountable gree acoustic situational awareness. sion Goggle (ENVG) provides increased onto each weapon’s rail and operate to the An increase in soldier use of hearing capability by incorporating image intensi- maximum effective range of the weapon. protection devices will result in a reduc- fication and long-wave infrared sensors In 2013, deliveries of TWS will include 17 tion of hearing injuries and subsequent into a single, helmet-mounted passive de- micron technology, which will result in post-service disabilities. According to a vice. The ENVG combines the visual detail size, weight and power improvements General Accounting Office (GAO) report, in low-light conditions provided by image over present configurations. in FY 2009 “some of the most common im- intensification with the thermal sensor’s The TWS family includes three variants: The AN/PAS-13(V)1 Light Weapon Ther- mal Sight (LWTS) for the M16 and M4 se- ries rifles and carbines, as well as the M136 AN/PSQ-20 Enhanced Light Anti-Armor Weapon; the AN/PAS- Night Vision Goggle 13(V)2 Medium Weapon Thermal Sight (ENVG) (MWTS) for the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon and M240B series medium ma- chine guns; and the AN/PAS-13(V)3 Heavy Weapon Thermal Sight (HWTS) for the squad leader’s weapon M16 and M4 series rifles and carbines, M24 and M107 sniper rifles, and M2 HB and Mk 19 ma- chine guns. The Family of Weapon Sights (FWS) pro- gram will provide soldiers with networked individual, crew-served, and sniper weapons sensor capability, allowing for significantly reduced target engagement times, increased identification ranges, and reduced weight during all visibility conditions. The FWS systems will use uncooled FLIR technology, digital low-light level technologies, and ad- ditional features to provide improved offen- sive firing capabilities, decreased transition time between mobility and targeting sen- sors, and improved firing accuracy.

366 ARMY I October 2012 The FWS will have three variants: the Family of Weapon Sights Individual AN/PED-1 Lightweight Laser (FWSI) for the M16 and M4 series rifles Designator Rangefinder (LLDR) and carbines, the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, the M136 Light Anti-Armor Weapon and M141 Bunker Defeat Muni- tions; the Family of Weapon Sights Crew Served (FWSCS) for the M240B series medium machine guns, the M2 HB and Mk 19 machine guns; and the Family of Weapon Sights Sniper (FWSS) for the M110, M107 and XM2010 sniper rifles. The AN/PVS-30 Clip-On Sniper Night Sight (CoSNS) is a lightweight, in-line, weapon-mounted sight used in conjunc- tion with the day optic sight on the M110 SASS and the XM2010 Enhanced Sniper Rifle (ESR). It employs a variable gain im- age tube that can be adjusted by the sniper depending on ambient light levels. When used in conjunction with the M110 or XM2010 day optical sight, it provides for personnel-sized target recognition at quar- ter-moon illumination in clear air to a range of 600 meters. The CoSNS has an in- tegrated rail adapter that attaches directly ments. It is fielded to military police units. with a precision target-location and laser- to the MIL-STD-1913 rail for quick and The LA-8/P Aircrew Laser Pointer designation system that allows them to easy mounting to or dismounting from the (ALP) is a finger-mounted laser that has call for fire using precision, near-precision weapon. Use of the CoSNS does not affect the capability to direct fires, identify and area munitions. It is a crew-served, the zero of the day optical sight and allows friend and foe, and signal adjacent forma- manportable, modular target locator and the M110 SASS and XM2010 to maintain tions during night operations. It is laser designation system. The primary bore sight throughout the focus range of mounted on a fire-resistant fabric de- components are the Target Locator Mod- the CoSNS and the weapon system’s day signed to attach to the aircrew member’s ule (TLM) and the Laser Designator Mod- optical sights. glove. Because it is worn on the hand, it ule (LDM). The TLM incorporates a ther- The Multifunction Aiming Light (MFAL) does not interfere with aircraft operation. mal imager, day camera, laser designator family includes the AN/PEQ-15 Advanced The master arming switch allows a high- spot imaging, electronic display, eye-safe Target Pointer Illuminator Aiming Light power (Class IIIb) or low-power (Class I) laser rangefinder, digital magnetic com- (ATPIAL) and the AN/PEQ-15A Dual Beam infrared laser operation. A momentary fire pass, selective availability/anti-spoofing Aiming Laser-Advanced2 (DBAL-A2). The button allows easy activation with the module global positioning system (SAASM AN/PEQ-15 and AN/PEQ-15A class 3B thumb to light an LED. The ALP incorpo- GPS), and digital export capability. A new MFAL devices replace the AN/PAQ-4C. rates a laser diode that projects a pinpoint compact laser designator is being fielded The infrared (IR) and visible aiming lasers beam that is brighter and more defined with the LLDR 2, which requires less are co-aligned. The visible laser can be used than other lasers. power and operates on one common sin- to bore-sight the device to a weapon with- The Green Laser Interdiction System gle-channel ground and airborne radio out the need of night-vision goggles. The IR (GLIS) is a rifle-mounted laser that allows system (SINCGARS) battery (BA-5390 or lasers emit a highly collimated beam of IR the soldier to interdict hostile actions BA-5590). To provide a precision targeting light for precise weapon aiming, as well as a through nonlethal effects. It is used to di- capability to the dismounted soldier, PM separate, IR-illuminating laser with ad- vert, disrupt or delay potential threats be- SPTD has developed the LLDR 2H, which justable focus. A visible red-dot aiming laser fore they can engage friendly forces. It is integrates a celestial navigation system can also be selected to provide precise aim- also an effective, nonlethal means to warn with the digital magnetic compass in the ing of a weapon during daylight or night civilians that they are approaching a zone TLM to provide highly accurate target operations. AN/PEQ-15 and AN/PEQ-15A of military operations. coordinates. The TLM can be used as a IR lasers can be used as handheld illumina- stand-alone device or in conjunction with tor pointers or can be weapon-mounted Product Manager Soldier Precision the LDM. During day operations, targets with included hardware. These units can be Targeting Devices (PM SPTD) can be recognized at more than 7 kilome- used with night-vision equipment to allow Product Manager Soldier Precision Tar- ters. At night and in obscured battlefield engagement of enemy targets at night. geting Devices (PM SPTD) is responsible conditions, the operator can recognize ve- The AN/PEQ-14 Integrated Laser White for developing and equipping the soldier hicle-sized targets at more than 3 kilome- Light Pointer (ILWLP) is a small, light- with manportable precision targeting sys- ters. The LDM emits coded laser pulses weight device that can be handheld or tems (locators, designators and entry de- compatible with DoD and NATO laser- mounted on the M9 pistol with a MIL- vices) for the joint force scout, forward ob- guided munitions. Targets can be desig- STD-1913 rail adapter and combines the server, and joint terminal attack controller nated at ranges greater than 5 kilometers. functions of a white-light flashlight with for use across the full spectrum of opera- The Laser Target Locator (LTL) has the adjustable focus, visible aiming laser, in- tions. mission of providing daylight and limited frared aiming laser, and IR illuminator into The AN/PED-1 Lightweight Laser Des- night capabilities to accurately locate tar- one system. The ILWLP is used to engage ignator Rangefinder (LLDR) provides dis- gets and transmit target data. These are targets with the M9 pistol on the battle- mounted fire support teams, combat ob- commercial off-the-shelf, handheld or tri- field and in close-quarters combat engage- servation and lasing teams, and scouts pod-mounted, lightweight laser target lo-

October 2012 I ARMY 367 cators designed to deliver target data to messaging devices. JETS is an Army-led, performing. All Army combat uniforms the fire support and maneuver command, joint program with the Air Force and Ma- will have a standardized insect repellent control, communications, and intelligence rine Corps to develop and field a one-man treatment called permethrin. This treat- system (C4I). portable targeting system for forward ob- ment to the uniform adds additional pro- The Vector 21 is a binocular laser range- servers and joint terminal attack con- tection against flying and crawling insects. finder (BLRF) with an embedded digital trollers. The (ACU) and compass. It can be used in combination The AN/PSQ-23 Small Tactical Optical Flame Resistant Combat Uniform (FRA- with the AN/PVS-14 NVG for limited Rifle Mounted (STORM) Micro-Laser CU) consist of a jacket, trousers, , night capability. Combined with a preci- Rangefinder (MLRF) is a lightweight, mul- moisture-wicking T-shirt and Army combat sion lightweight GPS receiver or a defense tifunctional laser system designed to oper- boot (temperate and hot weather) or the advanced GPS receiver, the system can ate on individual and crew-served weap- mountain combat boot for rugged terrain. compute and display target locations. ons, the Stryker Remote Weapons Station, After receiving soldier feedback, in Feb- The Mark VII integrates a monocular and the Common Remotely Operated ruary 2010, the Army announced that it direct view optic, an image intensifier, a Weapons Station. It combines the function- was changing the operational camouflage laser rangefinder and a digital compass ality of a laser rangefinder, the AN/PEQ-2A pattern for from the pixelated into a day/night target location device. Infrared Aiming Laser and Illuminator, the Universal Camouflage Pattern (UCP) to The MARK VII provides a limited night Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement Sys- the Operation Enduring Freedom Cam- capability. Combined with a precision tem, a digital compass, and a visible pointer ouflage Pattern (OCP). OCP was selected lightweight GPS receiver or a defense ad- into a single system. Combined with a preci- for its effectiveness in the varied visual en- vironments found in Afghanistan. Soldiers who deployed in late August 2010 were the first to receive the new cam- ouflage uniform, while soldiers in theater received them that fall. Beginning in August 2012, the OCP uniforms included an im- proved fabric and several design changes that make them more durable in the rugged terrain and easier to wear. Along with changes in blouses and trousers, there have been some changes in the headgear that can be worn with this uniform. Effective June 2011, the patrol cap that matches the ACU is the primary head- gear for this duty uniform, but at the com- mander’s discretion, the black beret can be worn instead. The (ASU) is a traditional uniform that fully embodies the imperatives of utility, simplicity and qual- ity. The ASU presents a distinctive appear- ance that readily identifies a soldier to the American public. Army blue, green and white service uniforms have been stream- AN/PSQ-23 Small Tactical Optical Rifle Mounted lined to one blue uniform as part of an (STORM) Micro-Laser Rangefinder (MLRF) evolutionary process to reduce the number of Army dress uniforms. Army blue as a uniform color traces its origins back to the vanced GPS receiver, the system can com- sion lightweight GPS receiver or a defense national blue of the U.S. flag and was first pute and display target locations. advanced GPS receiver, the system can com- mandated for wear by soldiers in the Con- The Mark VIIE is an improved Mark pute and display target locations. tinental Army of 1779. VII, which adds to all the Mark VII’s capa- The ASU provides a basic set of compo- bilities a more powerful 8x day optic, an Project Manager Soldier Protection nents that allow soldiers to dress from the uncooled thermal sight for increased night and Individual Equipment (PM lowest end to the highest end of service performance, and an embedded GPS re- SPIE) uniforms with little variation required. ceiver for greater accuracy. Project Manager Soldier Protection and The ASU eliminates the need for numer- The TRIGR incorporates a 7x direct view Individual Equipment (PM SPIE) devel- ous sets of green Class A uniforms, dress optic, an improved uncooled thermal sight ops and fields advanced soldier protection blue uniforms and, for some, dress white for increased sight range, a laser range- products, uniforms that enhance mission uniforms. Streamlining various dress uni- finder, a digital compass and GPS that al- effectiveness, and improved parachute forms into one ASU reduces the burden on lows the system to determine target location. systems. These products are designed to soldiers in the same manner that the ACU The Joint Effects Targeting System protect soldiers and enable them to oper- did for the field utility uniform. (JETS) provides the dismounted forward ate in any conditions. The ASU includes a coat and low-waist observer and joint terminal attack con- trousers for male soldiers, and a coat, troller the ability to acquire, locate, mark Product Manager Soldier Clothing slacks and skirt for female soldiers. The and designate for precision GPS-guided and Individual Equipment (PM fabric of the ASU consists of a 55 percent and laser-guided munitions, and provides SCIE). wool and 45 percent polyester blend, connectivity to the joint forces through fire Soldiers wear different uniforms depend- which is heavier and more wrinkle-resis- and close air support digital planning/ ing on where they are or the duty they are tant than the present commercially avail-

368 ARMY I October 2012 able blue uniform. The new ASU coat has an athletic cut to improve fit and appear- ance, and includes an improved heavier and wrinkle-resistant short- and long- sleeved white shirt with permanent mili- tary creases and shoulder loops. The primary headgear for the ASU is the beret. Officers and enlisted soldiers will be required to have both the service cap and the beret by the mandatory possession date. Commanders have the discretion to determine if corporals and above wear ei- ther the service cap or the beret. The cur- rent black accessories, such as the wind- Interceptor Body breaker, all-weather coat, overcoat and Armor (IBA) sweaters, may be worn with the ASU. In addition to the clothing changes, the ASU will allow soldiers to wear the new Combat Service Identification Badge (CSIB) to honor the heritage and traditions of com- bat service. The CSIB replicates the former Wartime Service Shoulder Sleeve Insignia on the ACU. In addition, the green leaders tab is not authorized for wear on the ASU. The blue ASU was introduced to mili- tary clothing sales stores in the fourth quarter of FY 2007. The Army introduced the ASU into soldiers’ clothing bags at ini- tial-entry training in FY 2010. The manda- tory possession date for the ASU for all Protector (DAP) is a component of IBA plates. Specific characteristics include a soldiers is the fourth quarter of FY 2014. that provides additional fragmentation MOLLE webbing on the front and back of and handgun protection to the upper arm the carrier for mounting of MOLLE compo- Product Manager Soldier Protective and underarm areas. The DAP was devel- nents; compatibility with other equipment Equipment oped as an add-on to the OTV to protect (Nett Warrior, rucksack and tactical assault Product Manager Soldier Protective soldiers from the threat of improvised ex- panel—without impeding the ability to Equipment (PM SPE) increases the war- plosive devices in current operations. This shoulder a weapon); easy don and doff ca- fighter’s lethality and mobility by optimiz- auxiliary protective capability is not re- pability; an increased range of sizes to en- ing soldier protection while effectively quired for the IOTV, as it is already inte- sure a comfortable fit for soldiers with the managing all life-cycle aspects of personal grated. The Enhanced Small Arms Protec- appropriate size ballistic plates inserted; protective equipment. tive Insert (ESAPI) plates provide wiring integration; drag strap for casualty Interceptor Body Armor (IBA) is a joint- multiple-hit protection to the chest and removal capability; durability; and avail- service item designed and developed to in- back against various small-arms threats. ability in OCP. An optional cummerbund corporate the requirements of the Army The Enhanced Side Ballistic Insert (ESBI) has been added as a result of feedback re- and Marine Corps. Interceptor is the plates provide additional ballistic protec- ceived from soldiers in the field. model name for a modular, multiple-threat tion for the soldier’s sides, which are not The legacy Concealable Body Armor body armor system consisting of a base covered by ESAPI. The ESBI can also with- (CBA) is intended to be worn by soldiers tactical vest and modular components, stand small-arms hits from the same in military police units, corrections, con- with small-arms protective inserts de- threats the ESAPI defends against. The X- finement and law-enforcement operations, signed to defeat multiple ballistic hazards Threat Small Arms Protective Insert (XS- Department of Defense investigative and across the battlefield continuum. The Im- API) plate was designed to meet short- security components, and other U.S. mili- proved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) is a term emerging threats and provide tary forces. The CBA offers ballistics pro- side-opening vest that can be donned over additional ballistic protection against more tection NIJ Level IIIA. The CBA provides the head or right shoulder. An internal lethal small-arms rounds. The X-Threat maximum torso coverage while maintain- waistband is incorporated inside the vest Side Ballistic Insert (XSBI) plates provide ing comfort and the ability to conceal. for increased stability. The vest provides ballistic protection for the soldier’s sides, The Family of Concealable Body Armor fragmentation and handgun protection. which are not covered by XSAPI. The XSBI (FoCBA) program will replace the legacy The IOTV consists of a groin protector, can also withstand small-arms hits from CBA. The FoCBA will standardize the CBA front yoke and collar, lower back protector the same threats the XSAPI defends for all Army components and a portion of and deltoid protector. The IOTV integrates against. The IOTV includes integrated the DoD police force. The FoCBA provides with all modular lightweight load-carry- ESBI/XSBI side-plate carriers, which re- two types of vest protection based on the ing equipment (MOLLE) components and duces redundant overlapping soft armor operating environment or mission. The incorporates a quick-release system for protection and decreases overall weight. Type 1 vest will provide Level IIIA ballistic emergency doffing. Since the inception of The Soldier Plate Carrier System (SPCS) protection to the NIJ 0101.06 standard and the IOTV, there have been numerous up- is a lightweight, flexible vest that provides a stab protection to Level I of the NIJ 0115.00 grades to the vest due to warfighter feed- comfortable and secure fit with the capacity standard. The Type 2 vest will provide stab back. All these improvements have en- to accommodate hard body armor plates. It protection that will meet NIJ 0115.00 stan- hanced the form, fit and functionality of is designed to accommodate the ESAPI, XS- dard for Level III stab protection (Califor- the system. The Deltoid and Auxiliary API, ESBI, and XSBI hard armor ballistic nia ice pick, single-edged blades, and dou-

October 2012 I ARMY 369 and night missions. The MCEP provides eye protection for both prescription and nonpre- scription wearers in a variety of commercial styles and sizes. Given this variety of eye- wear, soldiers can choose the best eyewear for their mission while still maintaining mil- itary standards for eye protection. The Advanced Bomb Suit (ABS) pro- tects explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) soldiers against ordnance and IEDs. This system uses new materials technology and design to provide protection, comfort, and ergonomic efficiency. The ABS ensemble consists of the EOD 8 bomb suit and EOD 9 helmet. The bomb suit is a full-body en- semble that protects from fragmentation, blast overpressure, impact, heat and flame. To minimize weight and maximize flexibil- ity, fragmentation protection is provided at various levels specific to body regions, based on wounding potential. Blast over- pressure protection is provided to the front of the thorax. Impact protection is pro- vided to the head and spine. Heat and flame protection are provided by resistant Advanced Bomb Suit (ABS) materials. The suit includes an ice-based cooling system to extend mission duration. ble-edged blades), while meeting additional tion against ballistic and fragmentation A hand-protection module provides in- Army requirements. These vests will allow threats. The ECH uses advanced thermo- creased protection. The system can be re- for increased mission effectiveness by pro- plastic materials that require different moved in less than 30 seconds. All ballistic viding improved protection and a selection manufacturing processes from those asso- inserts are removable to facilitate launder- based on the operational environment. ciated with resin-impregnated para- ing and repair. The system is equipped The Pelvic Protection System (PPS) is a aramids. The ECH weighs from 2.8 with provisions that allow for future com- two-tiered system composed of a Tier I pounds (for a size small) to 4.0 pounds (for munications, performance and capability protective under garment (PUG) and a a size large). The helmet cover is available upgrades. Tier II protective outer garment (POG). in UCP or OCP. The PUG is a system worn next to the skin The Helmet Sensor (HS) GEN II is a Project Manager Soldier Weapons designed to stop small fragments, reduce small, lightweight, low-power sensor suite (PM SW) the penetration of dirt in wounds and min- that mounts inside the Advanced Combat Project Manager Solder Weapons (PM imize the risk of infection from fine debris. Helmet or combat vehicle crewman helmet SW) ensures that soldiers have battlefield The POG is a system worn over the ACU to record traumatic incidents such as IED dominance in individual and crew-served and, in conjunction with the Tier 1 PUG, explosions or vehicle accidents and docu- weapons capabilities. PM SW supports sol- designed to reduce penetrations of larger ment the forces exerted by those incidents diers through the development, acquisition, threats and debris. The POG provides bal- on the soldier’s head. Soldiers sometimes fielding and sustainment of current and fu- listic protection similar to that of the Im- appear to go through traumatic incidents ture weapons systems and associated target proved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV). unscathed, only to later develop symp- acquisition/fire control products. As a re- The (ACH) toms of mild traumatic brain injury. The sult of PM SW’s efforts, soldiers benefit comes in five shell sizes (small, medium, helmet sensors measure and record G from continuous improvement programs large, extra large, and extra-extra large) forces exerted on six different axes and and are equipped with systems that enhance and includes a modular pad suspension also collect information on overpressure. their lethality and survivability. Two prod- system, retention system and ballistic nape This goes into a database that compiles uct managers under PM SW drive the mis- pad. The modular pad suspension system many such incidents and can be cross-cor- sion: Product Manager Individual Weapons improves blunt-force impact protection, related with medical records and reports (PM IW) and Product Manager Crew stability and comfort. The cotton/polyester to help researchers determine if there is a Served Weapons (PM CSW). retention system, a four-point design, al- link between brain injuries of various lows for quick adjustment for head size. types and the forces exerted on the sol- Product Manager Individual Weapons The ballistic nape pad attaches to the reten- dier’s head. This database of incidents and (PM IW) tion system, improving comfort and stabil- medical outcomes will help the Army Product Manager Individual Weapons ity and providing protection against small medical community establish a body of (PM IW) is responsible for current and fu- arms and fragmentation threats to the nape knowledge for development of an objec- ture rifles, carbines, pistols, shotguns, area of the neck. The ACH weighs 2.9 to 3.8 tive head exposure monitor and rapid grenade launchers, sniper systems, air- pounds, depending on size. The helmet head injury screening tool. burst weapons and related target acquisi- cover is available in UCP and OCP. The Military Combat Eye Protection tion/fire control products. The Enhanced Combat Helmet (ECH) (MCEP) program is an umbrella program The XM25 Individual Semi-Automatic improves ballistic protection, stability and geared toward protecting soldiers’ eyes Airburst System (ISAAS) is the U.S. comfort without adding weight or degrad- from external threats and hazards such as Army’s latest developmental weapon de- ing the soldier’s hearing and field of vi- ballistic fragmentation, electromagnetic ra- signed to address the problem of defeating sion. The ECH provides increased protec- diation, sand, wind, and dust during day enemies behind cover, defilade and ex-

370 ARMY I October 2012 posed targets at ranges and accuracies not The M107 Semi-Automatic Long Range situations. The M110 comes with a sup- seen in today’s small arms by firing 25 mm Sniper Rifle (LRSR) fires .50-caliber am- pressor and incorporates a 3.5x10 scope high-explosive airburst (HEAB) muni- munition and is capable of delivering pre- with illuminated mil-reticle. It also comes tions. The XM25 incorporates full-solution cise, rapid fire on targets out to 2,000 me- with the M151 Enhanced Spotting Scope, target acquisition/fire control that inte- ters. It is especially valuable during military which allows recognition and identifica- grates a thermal sight, 2x direct-view op- operations in urban terrain, where greater tion of targets at long distances. With pow- tics, a laser rangefinder, compass, fuze set- firepower and standoff ranges provide erful and bright optics, the spotting scope ter, ballistic computer and internal display. counter-sniper capability while enhancing has 12 to 40x magnification with a 60 mm The M4/M4A1 5.56 mm Carbine is de- sniper survivability. objective lens diameter. The scope has a signed for lightness, speed, mobility and The new XM2010 Enhanced Sniper Ri- Leupold mil dot (round dot) reticle for firepower and is standard issue for brigade fle (ESR) is a fully upgraded M24 Sniper both range estimation and tactical collabo- combat teams. Throughout more than 10 Weapon System that has been recham- ration with the shooter. The scope is years of sustained combat operations, the bered to fire .300 WinMag ammunition. weatherproof and fogproof. M4 has proven itself an effective weapon The bolt action, magazine-fed system pro- The M14 7.62 mm Enhanced Battle Ri- system that serves soldiers extremely well. vides precision fire on targets at ranges 50 fle (EBR) provides infantry squads operat- The system is 1 pound lighter and more percent farther than existing 7.62 mm ing in Afghanistan with interim capability portable than the M16 series of rifles. The sniper systems. The XM2010 is equipped to engage enemy targets beyond the range M4 series of carbines can also be mounted with a suppressor and a fully adjustable of M4 Carbines and M16 Rifles. The with the M203A2 Grenade Launcher, M320 right-folding chassis system featuring a weapon is air-cooled, gas-operated and Grenade Launcher or M26 Modular Acces- monolithic MIL-STD 1913 accessory rail magazine-fed. It is a modern M14 rifle sory Shotgun System. The weapon has re- and accessory cable routing channels. The mated to an enhanced aluminum billet ceived many performance-based design shooter interface can be tailored to accom- stock, tactical scope and cantilever mount. improvements since its inception. The modate a wide range of shooter prefer- The rifle is effective in close-quarters com- Army authorized the upgrade of all M4s to ences. The XM2010 is fielded with a Le- bat and in the conceptual squad desig- the M4A1 configuration in September 2010. upold Mark 4 6.5 to 20x50 mm extended nated marksman role. The M4A1 has full automatic capability, an range/tactical riflescope with a scalable The M9 9 mm Pistol enhances lethality ambidextrous fire selector and a slightly ranging and targeting reticle and an and survivability in close combat situa- heavier barrel that increases the sustained AN/PVS-29 Clip-on Sniper Night Sight. tions via a pistol with rail-attachment ca- rate of fire. The Army fielded the XM2010 to all sniper pabilities. It is the primary sidearm of the The M16A2/A4 Series 5.56 mm Rifle is teams operating in Afghanistan in 2011. crew-served weapon crewmembers and the most prevalent combat rifle in the U.S. The M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper Sys- others who have a personal defense re- Army inventory. It is a gas-operated, air- tem (SASS) is the U.S. Army’s medium- quirement, such as law-enforcement per- cooled, shoulder-fired weapon that can be caliber sniper rifle that supplements the sonnel, unit leaders and aviators. fired either in automatic three-round bursts or semiautomatic single shots. The M16A2 has an integral rear sight, while the M16A4 includes a military standard (MIL- STD) 1913 upper receiver and forward rail system with a backup iron sight. Both sys- tems can accommodate modern optics and accessories, as well as configurations that incorporate M203 and M320 40 mm gre- nade launchers. The M320 Grenade Launcher enables soldiers to accurately engage the enemy in daylight or total darkness out to 350 meters with 40 mm low-velocity grenades. The M320 will replace all M203 series grenade launchers mounted on the M16/M4 series of rifles and carbines. The weapon includes a side-loading unrestricted breech that per- mits the system to fire longer 40 mm pro- jectiles (NATO standard and nonstandard) and also features the enhanced safety of a double-action trigger/firing system. The M26 12-Gauge Modular Accessory Shotgun System (MASS) provides sol- diers with a 12-gauge shotgun accessory attachment with lethal, less-than-lethal and door-breaching capabilities. The sys- tem attaches underneath the barrel of the M320 Grenade Launcher M4 Carbine and provides a capability equivalent to a stand-alone shotgun with- sniper’s role to support combat operations The M68 Close Combat Optic (CCO) is a out carrying a second separate weapon. with greater firepower and versatility. The red-dot aiming device that enhances target The M26 can also be converted without 7.62 mm SASS brings a semiautomatic ca- acquisition speed, allowing soldiers to en- tools to operate in a stand-alone mode. pability to sniper teams and is particularly gage targets up to 300 meters with both eyes The Army began fielding the M26 to select effective in urban areas where there are open to maintain situational awareness. The engineer and MP units in 2012. multiple targets and frequent close-combat sight has no magnification and can be used

October 2012 I ARMY 371 with all current night-vision enhancements. meters for point targets. It fires standard less detectable in darkness. The Army be- The M150 Rifle Combat Optic (RCO) is high-velocity 40 mm grenade cartridges, in- gan fielding the M2A1 in 2011 and plans to a rugged, battery-free, 4x magnified optic cluding M383 high-explosive antipersonnel upgrade its entire fleet of 45,000 M2s to the that provides full mission profile optical rounds, high-explosive dual-purpose (an- M2A1 standard. capability for use on the M4/M16/M249 tipersonnel and armor-piercing) rounds, The M240B 7.62 mm Medium Machine weapon systems. Enhanced capabilities and training practice rounds. The Mk 19 Gun is a ground-mounted, gas-operated, provided by the M150 RCO include range supports the soldier in offensive and defen- crew-served machine gun. The cyclic rate is estimation, which, along with the bullet sive roles by delivering a heavy volume of 550 to 650 rounds per minute, and the drop compensated reticle, provides accu- accurate and continuous firepower against weapon’s maximum effective range against rate target engagements out to 800 meters enemy personnel and lightly armored vehi- area targets is 1,800 meters. It comes with for trained operators. cles. It can be mounted on a tripod or on an accessory rail integrated with the top multiple vehicle platforms and is the pri- cover that is used to attach sighting devices. Product Manager Crew Served mary suppressive weapon for combat sup- It is issued to infantry, armor, field artillery Weapons (PM CSW) port and combat service support units. and combat engineer units that require Product Manager Crew Served Weapons The M2 .50-caliber Machine Gun is au- medium-support fire. (PM CSW) is responsible for current and tomatic, belt-fed, recoil-operated and air- The M240L 7.62 mm Medium Machine future light and heavy machine guns, cooled. The battle-proven system mounts Gun (Light) weighs approximately 5 grenade launchers, related target acquisi- on the M3 tripod and on most vehicles pounds less than the existing M240B, while tion/fire control products and remote while also serving as an antipersonnel and meeting all of its reliability and operational weapons systems. antiaircraft weapon. It is highly effective characteristics. The M240L incorporates ti- tanium construction and alternative manu- facturing methods to achieve its weight savings. These improvements reduce the soldier’s combat load while the weapon system’s short barrel and collapsible butt- stock configuration allow easier handling and movement of the weapon. Designated an Army’s Greatest Invention of 2010, the M240L is rugged and reliable and has a minimum 50,000-round receiver life. The M240H 7.62 mm Machine Gun (Aviation Version) is designed for aviation application and demonstrates reliability equal to that of the M240B. It delivers two minutes of continuous suppressive fire and is removable for use in a ground role. It replaces the M60D machine gun for the UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook helicopters as part of their defensive arma- ment systems. The M249 5.56 mm Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) serves as an automatic ri- fle and light machine gun for infantry M2 .50-caliber Machine Gun squads. The M249 SAW is an air-cooled, belt-fed, 5.56 mm weapon with fixed head- space and a quick-change barrel. The The M153 Common Remotely Operated against light armored vehicles, low- and weapon can be fired from the shoulder, bi- Weapon Station (CROWS) provides sol- slow-flying aircraft, and small boats. The pod/tripod-mounted or vehicle-mounted diers with the ability to acquire and engage M2 provides automatic weapon suppres- position. It replaced the M16 rifle in the targets while protected inside an armored sive fire for offensive and defensive pur- squad automatic rifle role. vehicle. CROWS is a stabilized mount that poses. It is capable of single-shot (ground The Army’s improved machine-gun tri- contains a sensor suite and fire control soft- M2 machine gun) and automatic fire. In pod systems include the M192 Lightweight ware, allowing on-the-move target acquisi- post-combat surveys, soldiers rated the Ground Mount for Machine Guns and the tion and first-burst target engagement. Ca- M2 among the most effective weapon sys- XM205 Lightweight Heavy Machine Gun pable of target engagement under day and tems in their small-arms arsenal. Tripod. The M192 provides a lighter weight, night conditions, the CROWS sensor suite The M2A1 with Quick-Change Barrel low-profile mounting platform for the M249 includes a daytime video camera, thermal and fixed headspace and timing is an en- and M240 for controlled, sustained and ac- camera and laser rangefinder. CROWS is hancement to the M2 .50-caliber machine curate fire at extended ranges. The M192 is designed to mount on any tactical vehicle gun, offering soldiers increased perfor- compact and collapsible and weighs 6 and supports the Mk 19 40 mm grenade mance and design improvements that pounds less than the M122A1 tripod it re- machine gun, M2 .50-caliber machine gun, make it easier and safer to use. The M2A1 places. PM CSW will begin fielding the M240B 7.62 mm machine gun, and M249 speeds target engagement and improves XM205 in 2013 for the dismounted M2 and 5.56 mm squad automatic weapon. survivability and safety by reducing the Mk 19 to enable a quicker, more accurate The Mk 19 40 mm Grenade Machine time required to change the barrel and target engagement. At 34 pounds, the Gun (GMG) is an air-cooled, belt-fed, blow- eliminating the need to manually adjust XM205 weighs 16 pounds less than the cur- back-operated fully automatic weapon sys- headspace and timing. The M2A1 also pro- rent M3 heavy tripod and offers an inte- tem. It has a maximum effective range vides a flash hider that reduces muzzle grated traverse and elevation mechanism of 2,212 meters for area targets and 1,500 flash by 95 percent, making the weapon that can be operated with one hand.

372 ARMY I October 2012