The soldier is the Army’s most deployedcombat system and the most essentialweapon in the Army’s arsenal. ProgramExecutive Office (PEO) Soldier was acti-vated in October 2002 to equip the soldieras a system through centralized develop-ment, acquisition, fielding and sustain-ment of virtually everything the soldierwears or carries. PEO Soldier is the first organization in

U.S. Army history to be charged with themission to treat the soldier as a system. Allaspects of soldier equipment are inte-grated, modular, interoperable and mis-sion-tailorable. This focused effort has ledto the most lethal and survivable groundforce in modern warfare.

Project Manager Soldier WarriorProject Manager Soldier Warrior (PM

SWAR) supports soldiers through the ac-quisition of integrated soldier systems.Current systems include Nett Warrior (for-merly Ground Soldier), Air Soldier, SoldierPower, and Tactical Communication andProtective Systems. Project Manager Sol-dier Warrior’s product managers and di-rectors develop and integrate componentsinto complete systems designed to in-crease combat effectiveness, decrease com-bat load and improve mission flexibility.

Product Manager Ground SoldierNett Warrior (NW) builds upon Land

Warrior as an integrated dismounted sol-dier situational awareness system for useduring combat operations. The system pro-vides unparalleled situational awareness

and understanding to the dismounted sol-dier, allowing faster and more accurate de-cision making in the tactical fight. NettWarrior reduces time on target, greatly re-ducing the risk of fratricide; allows for im-mediate feedback of battlefield effects; re-duces the use of voice communication;clears the fog of battle by displaying a real-time common operating picture (COP); andprovides immediate command and control. The centerpiece capability of NW is the

ability to graphically display the individ-ual soldier’s location on a digital map. Ad-ditional soldiers’ locations are also graphi-cally displayed through the Army BattleCommand System, connected via a secureradio that sends and receives information.The system also connects the combat sol-dier to higher-echelon data and informa-tion products to assist the soldier in deci-sion making and situational understanding.All of this is integrated in a graphical userinterface that is user-defined, allowing sol-diers to easily see, understand and interactin the method that best suits the user andhis particular mission.The physical subcomponents of NW in-

clude a display to provide the soldier’s in-formation, a computer to process and pop-ulate the information on the screen, aninterface device that allows user interac-tion with the system, a power source, anoperating system to provide the systemfunctionality to run tactical applicationsand Battle Command, and a networked ra-dio transmitter/receiver device to sendand receive information. As an integratedsystem on the combat soldier, size andweight are kept to a minimum with theruggedness for combat operations includ-ing water immersion. NW has a slim and

flexible form factor that can accommodatethe shooter’s preference method of em-ploying the system with the variety of dif-ferent mission profiles and soldier config-urations.NW entered the technology development

phase in February 2009 and recentlyachieved Milestone C. During fiscal year(FY) 2012, the program was scheduled toaward low-rate initial production contracts.

Product Manager Air WarriorAir Warrior (AW) is a modular, inte-

grated, rapidly reconfigurable combat air-crew ensemble that saves lives and maxi-mizes Army aircrew mission performance.More than 20,000 Army aircrew membershave been equipped with the system. AWincreases personal protection and missionperformance and consists of a primarysurvival gear carrier that includes first aid,survival, signaling and communicationsequipment; body armor tailored for theunique requirements of the aircrew mem-ber; the aircrew integrated helmet systemincluding a Communication Enhance-ment and Protection System (CEPS) thatprovides a helmet hear-through capability;over-water survival equipment, includingpersonal flotation, an emergency escapebreathing device, and body-mounted liferaft; and the Microclimate Cooling Sys-tem (MCS), a mix of platform-mountedand soldier-mounted cooling gear that in-creases mission endurance under extremeheat by more than 350 percent. The MCShas been adopted for use by ground forcesincluding Stryker, Abrams, Bradley, M9ACE, Navy, Marine Corps and foreign mil-itaries, with more than 16,000 systemsfielded to date. The Portable HelicopterOxygen Delivery System (PHODS) is asoldier-worn system that delivers com-pressed oxygen from a lightweight steelbottle attached to the Air Warrior vest. Thesystem 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 3,000PHODS have been fielded. The ElectronicData Manager (EDM) is a touchscreen,kneeboard computer that enables the air-crew member to quickly plan missions andreact to mission changes in flight. TheEDM, 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 avoidancecapability expected to achieve airworthi-ness certification in FY 2012. More than2,700 EDM systems have been fielded tothe Army, Navy, Marine Corps and foreignmilitaries. The Encrypted Aircraft Wire-less Intercom System (EAWIS) providesencrypted, hands-free wireless aircrewcommunications for nonrated aircrew mem-bers requiring mobility inside and in theimmediate vicinity of the aircraft. EAWISprovides the first true aircraft intercom ca-

364 ARMY � October 2012

Air Warrior ElectronicData Manager (EDM)

INDIVIDUAL EQUIPMENT AND WEAPONS

pability for medical evacuation helicopterpersonnel during rescue hoist missionsand consists of an aircraft-mounted inter-face unit and mobile equipment unitsworn by the crewmember. The SurvivalKit, Ready Access, Modular (SKRAM)gives aircrews readily accessible carriageof a 72-hour suite of life-support equip-ment in a flame-retardant, modular andconfigurable 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 December2011 with a requirement to reduce aircrewmember weight and bulk while improvingsafety and situational awareness and mis-sion duration. Air Soldier capabilities willbe fielded in two increments, with the firstdelivery 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 flightand 3-D Degraded Visual Environmentflight symbology (Apache aviators will beequipped in the second increment of AirSoldier); Lightweight Environmental Con-trol System delivering a cooling capabilityto OH-58D aviators previously unavailabledue to the space, weight and power con-straints inherent in the Kiowa Warrior; andsoldier-worn Integrated Soldier Power andData System (ISPDS)—a smart, on-aircraftrechargeable, single source of extended du-ration power for all aircrew-worn electron-ics. Developed through teamwork with theProduct Director Soldier Power, the ISPDSeliminates the need to wear and carry sepa-rate sets and types of batteries and spares.Air Soldier also includes Personal Elec-

tronics Control and Display System (PECDS), consisting of a Personal DisplayModule (PDM), Soldier Computer Mod-ule (SCM), and Mission Display Module(MDM). The PDM is worn by the soldierand is the single user interface and dis-mounted display for all body-mountedelectronic equipment. The PDM reducesbulk and weight by eliminating the needfor separate hardware control and displaycomponents. The SCM provides a singleprocessing and data storage device for allsoldier-worn electronics and reduces bulkand weight by replacing separate compo-nent processors. The aircraft-mountedMDM replaces the Air Warrior EDM in thenondigitized rotary-wing fleet and inter-faces with platform sensors for mission ex-ecution, including situational awarenessand command-and-control messagingthrough Blue Force Tracking. A LayeredClothing Ensemble (LCE) introduces anactive heating capability and reduces thebulk and weight of the current AW aircrewflexible body armor, cooling vest, chemi-

cal/biological protective garment, survivalvest components, and cold water immer-sion protective garments. The second and final delivery of Air Sol-

dier capability in FY 2018 will fully replacethe Air Warrior and will include: WideField of View/High Resolution HelmetMounted Display incorporating 3-D DVEsymbology for AH-64 Apache aviators; Ra-dio Interface Control Module (RICM),which combines the functionality of, and re-places, the soldier-worn Encrypted AircraftWireless Intercom System transceiver andCombat Survivor Evader Locator survivalradio, and adds a wireless data capability;Enhanced Laser Eye Protection (ELEP),providing increased wavelength protectionin a spectacle or visor configuration; Inte-grated Protective Ensemble (IPE), whichfully replaces the legacy Air Warrior gearcarriage and body armor system. The IPEreduces weight and bulk by using electro-textile technology to eliminate heavy electri-cal power/data cabling, eliminating thebody-mounted raft, reducing the size andweight of breathing devices, and integratingpersonal flotation into the IPE.

Product Director Soldier PowerProduct Director Soldier Power is a vi-

tal enabler for operations, essential for pa-trols and required for soldier sustainment.Providing energy-alternative capabilitiesand interoperability builds flexibility andresilience through the increased ability torespond to changes in operational de-mands and a greater ability to adapt tochanges in the operational environment.These capabilities include soldier powersources, power scavenging, renewable en-

ergy, power distribution, power manage-ment, and power storage solutions that arelightweight and soldier-portable/wear-able. The type of gear carried into battle bysoldiers in the past had a low power re-quirement that could be addressed with asmall amount of conventional batteries. Astechnologies mature and new power-con-suming systems get added onto the cur-rent soldier load, the Army needs to ad-dress how to reduce that load andeliminate the logistical footprint associatedwith battery resupply.The Soldier Worn Integrated Power Sys-

tem (SWIPES) provides a central powersource for extended mission duration whenused with the ergonomic soldier-worn con-formal battery, while reducing the numbersand varieties of batteries carried by the soldier. The SWIPES system can providepower for up to four devices including (butnot limited to) a radio via a smart chargingpouch, a USB hub to power any USB de-vice, a defense advanced global positioningsystem (GPS) receiver (DAGR) and an enduser device such as Nett Warrior.The Soldier Power Manager is a light-

weight, portable power management sys-tem that can use power from primary bat-teries and manage power from solar, vehicleand fuel cell sources.The Rucksack Enhanced Portable Power

System is a solar power energy system thatcan provide power to the individual orteam and can be carried in an assault pack. TheModular Universal Battery Charger

(MUBC) with a 120-watt solar blanketweighs approximately 6 pounds andbrings recharging forward for the entirenetworked squad in a Tier 1 environment.

October 2012 � ARMY 365

Survival Equipment Subsystem (SES)

This charger will reduce and potentiallyeliminate the need to return to the forwardoperating base for recharging. The MUBCwill allow the warfighter to extend his mis-sion duration without being tethered to alogistics battery resupply.The 1KW JP8 Generator allows the

warfighter to use existing logistics infra-structure while providing a lightweight,manportable solution. The Army is devel-oping a multifuel-compatible capability. The Conformal Battery is an ergonomic

soldier-worn battery that provides a centralsource of power for a variety of soldier-worn capabilities. The ergonomic engineer-ing of the conformal battery provides thewarfighter with a lightweight power sourcethat shares space with existing equipmenton the soldier’s combat uniform.The Tactical Communication and Pro-

tective System (TCAPS) provides concur-rent hearing protection and auditory situa-tional awareness. Historically, soldiers hadto choose between hearing protection andforce protection. As a combat force multi-plier, TCAPS maintains hearing protectionwhile enabling soldiers to use existing tac-tical radios, resulting in increased missioneffectiveness, safety and survivability.Active hearing-protection technology

coupled with hearing-attenuation technol-ogy enables soldiers wearing TCAPS tohear in steady-state and impulse environ-ments. TCAPS’ ambient-sound capabilityprovides soldiers with localized, 360-de-gree acoustic situational awareness. An increase in soldier use of hearing

protection devices will result in a reduc-tion of hearing injuries and subsequentpost-service disabilities. According to aGeneral Accounting Office (GAO) report,in FY 2009 “some of the most common im-

pairments for veterans receiving disabilitybenefits were hearing-related. Annual pay-ments for such conditions exceeded $1.1billion.” The Rapid Fielding Initiative is presently

issuing an early version of TCAPS to de-ploying units. The TCAPS program ofrecord will seek to offer a lighter, more inter-operable, nonradio-dependent materiel so-lution. Milestone C is planned for FY 2013.

Project Manager Soldier Sensors andLasers (PM SSL)Project Manager Soldier Sensors and

Lasers (PM SSL) provides soldier-bornesensors and lasers that enhance the sol-dier’s ability to see and dominate in allbattlefield and lighting conditions, to ac-quire objects of military significance beforethe soldier is detected, and to target threatobjects accurately for engagement by sol-diers or guided munitions. These systemsprovide critical, on-the-ground direct sup-port to U.S. forces.

Product Manager Soldier ManeuverSensors (PM SMS) Product Manager Soldier Maneuver

Sensors (PM SMS) is responsible for de-veloping and equipping the soldier withsensors and lasers to help dominate thebattlefield through improved lethality, mo-bility, and survivability in all weather andvisibility conditions.The AN/PSQ-20 Enhanced Night Vi-

sion Goggle (ENVG) provides increasedcapability by incorporating image intensi-fication and long-wave infrared sensorsinto a single, helmet-mounted passive de-vice. The ENVG combines the visual detailin low-light conditions provided by imageintensification with the thermal sensor’s

ability to see through fog, dust and foliagethat obscure vision. This thermal capabil-ity makes the ENVG, unlike earlier night-vision devices, useful during the day aswell as at night. The AN/PVS-14 Monocular Night Vi-

sion Device (MNVD) is a head- or helmet-mounted passive device that amplifies am-bient light and very near infrared energyto enable night operations. The system isdesigned for use in conjunction with rifle-mounted aiming lights.The AN/AVS-6 Aviator’s Night Vision

Imaging System (ANVIS) is a third-gen-eration, helmet-mounted, direct-view, im-age-intensification device that enables avi-ators to operate more effectively and safelyduring low-light and degraded battlefieldconditions. The low-light sensitivity repre-sents a 35 to 40 percent improvement overthe earliest ANVIS. In addition, the gatedpower supply enables operation at signifi-cantly higher light levels than any of theprevious designs.The AN/PAS-13 Thermal Weapon Sight

(TWS) gives soldiers with individual andcrew-served weapons the capability to seedeep into the battlefield, increase surveil-lance and target acquisition range, andpenetrate obscurants, day or night. TheTWS systems use uncooled, forward-look-ing infrared (FLIR) technology and providea standard video output for training or re-mote viewing. Thermal weapon sights arelightweight systems that are mountableonto each weapon’s rail and operate to themaximum effective range of the weapon.In 2013, deliveries of TWS will include 17micron technology, which will result insize, weight and power improvementsover present configurations.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 M136Light Anti-Armor Weapon; the AN/PAS-13(V)2 Medium Weapon Thermal Sight(MWTS) for the M249 Squad AutomaticWeapon and M240B series medium ma-chine guns; and the AN/PAS-13(V)3Heavy Weapon Thermal Sight (HWTS) forthe squad leader’s weapon M16 and M4series rifles and carbines, M24 and M107sniper rifles, and M2 HB and Mk 19 ma-chine guns.The Family of Weapon Sights (FWS) pro-

gram will provide soldiers with networkedindividual, crew-served, and sniper weaponssensor capability, allowing for significantlyreduced target engagement times, increasedidentification ranges, and reduced weightduring all visibility conditions. The FWSsystems will use uncooled FLIR technology,digital low-light level technologies, and ad-ditional features to provide improved offen-sive firing capabilities, decreased transitiontime between mobility and targeting sen-sors, and improved firing accuracy.

366 ARMY � October 2012

AN/PSQ-20 EnhancedNight Vision Goggle(ENVG)

The FWS will have three variants: theFamily of Weapon Sights Individual(FWSI) for the M16 and M4 series riflesand carbines, the M249 Squad AutomaticWeapon, the M136 Light Anti-ArmorWeapon and M141 Bunker Defeat Muni-tions; the Family of Weapon Sights CrewServed (FWSCS) for the M240B seriesmedium machine guns, the M2 HB andMk 19 machine guns; and the Family ofWeapon Sights Sniper (FWSS) for theM110, 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 M110SASS and the XM2010 Enhanced SniperRifle (ESR). It employs a variable gain im-age tube that can be adjusted by the sniperdepending on ambient light levels. Whenused in conjunction with the M110 orXM2010 day optical sight, it provides forpersonnel-sized target recognition at quar-ter-moon illumination in clear air to arange of 600 meters. The CoSNS has an in-tegrated rail adapter that attaches directlyto the MIL-STD-1913 rail for quick andeasy mounting to or dismounting from theweapon. Use of the CoSNS does not affectthe zero of the day optical sight and allowsthe M110 SASS and XM2010 to maintainbore sight throughout the focus range ofthe CoSNS and the weapon system’s dayoptical sights.The Multifunction Aiming Light (MFAL)

family includes the AN/PEQ-15 AdvancedTarget Pointer Illuminator Aiming Light(ATPIAL) and the AN/PEQ-15A Dual BeamAiming Laser-Advanced2 (DBAL-A2). TheAN/PEQ-15 and AN/PEQ-15A class 3BMFAL devices replace the AN/PAQ-4C.The infrared (IR) and visible aiming lasersare co-aligned. The visible laser can be usedto bore-sight the device to a weapon with-out the need of night-vision goggles. The IRlasers emit a highly collimated beam of IRlight for precise weapon aiming, as well as aseparate, IR-illuminating laser with ad-justable focus. A visible red-dot aiming lasercan also be selected to provide precise aim-ing of a weapon during daylight or nightoperations. AN/PEQ-15 and AN/PEQ-15AIR lasers can be used as handheld illumina-tor pointers or can be weapon-mountedwith included hardware. These units can beused with night-vision equipment to allowengagement of enemy targets at night.The AN/PEQ-14 Integrated Laser White

Light Pointer (ILWLP) is a small, light-weight device that can be handheld ormounted on the M9 pistol with a MIL-STD-1913 rail adapter and combines thefunctions of a white-light flashlight withadjustable focus, visible aiming laser, in-frared aiming laser, and IR illuminator intoone system. The ILWLP is used to engagetargets with the M9 pistol on the battle-field and in close-quarters combat engage-

ments. It is fielded to military police units.The LA-8/P Aircrew Laser Pointer

(ALP) is a finger-mounted laser that hasthe capability to direct fires, identifyfriend and foe, and signal adjacent forma-tions during night operations. It ismounted on a fire-resistant fabric de-signed to attach to the aircrew member’sglove. Because it is worn on the hand, itdoes not interfere with aircraft operation.The master arming switch allows a high-power (Class IIIb) or low-power (Class I)infrared laser operation. A momentary firebutton allows easy activation with thethumb to light an LED. The ALP incorpo-rates a laser diode that projects a pinpointbeam that is brighter and more definedthan other lasers.The Green Laser Interdiction System

(GLIS) is a rifle-mounted laser that allowsthe soldier to interdict hostile actionsthrough nonlethal effects. It is used to di-vert, disrupt or delay potential threats be-fore they can engage friendly forces. It isalso an effective, nonlethal means to warncivilians that they are approaching a zoneof military operations.

Product Manager Soldier PrecisionTargeting Devices (PM SPTD) Product Manager Soldier Precision Tar-

geting Devices (PM SPTD) is responsiblefor developing and equipping the soldierwith manportable precision targeting sys-tems (locators, designators and entry de-vices) for the joint force scout, forward ob-server, and joint terminal attack controllerfor use across the full spectrum of opera-tions.The AN/PED-1 Lightweight Laser Des-

ignator Rangefinder (LLDR) provides dis-mounted fire support teams, combat ob-servation and lasing teams, and scouts

with a precision target-location and laser-designation system that allows them tocall for fire using precision, near-precisionand area munitions. It is a crew-served,manportable, modular target locator andlaser designation system. The primarycomponents are the Target Locator Mod-ule (TLM) and the Laser Designator Mod-ule (LDM). The TLM incorporates a ther-mal imager, day camera, laser designatorspot imaging, electronic display, eye-safelaser rangefinder, digital magnetic com-pass, selective availability/anti-spoofingmodule global positioning system (SAASMGPS), and digital export capability. A newcompact laser designator is being fieldedwith the LLDR 2, which requires lesspower and operates on one common sin-gle-channel ground and airborne radiosystem (SINCGARS) battery (BA-5390 orBA-5590). To provide a precision targetingcapability to the dismounted soldier, PMSPTD has developed the LLDR 2H, whichintegrates a celestial navigation systemwith the digital magnetic compass in theTLM to provide highly accurate target coordinates. The TLM can be used as astand-alone device or in conjunction withthe LDM. During day operations, targetscan be recognized at more than 7 kilome-ters. At night and in obscured battlefieldconditions, the operator can recognize ve-hicle-sized targets at more than 3 kilome-ters. The LDM emits coded laser pulsescompatible with DoD and NATO laser-guided munitions. Targets can be desig-nated at ranges greater than 5 kilometers. The Laser Target Locator (LTL) has the

mission of providing daylight and limitednight capabilities to accurately locate tar-gets and transmit target data. These arecommercial off-the-shelf, handheld or tri-pod-mounted, lightweight laser target lo-

October 2012 � ARMY 367

AN/PED-1 Lightweight LaserDesignator Rangefinder (LLDR)

cators designed to deliver target data tothe fire support and maneuver command,control, communications, and intelligencesystem (C4I). The Vector 21 is a binocular laser range-

finder (BLRF) with an embedded digitalcompass. It can be used in combinationwith the AN/PVS-14 NVG for limitednight capability. Combined with a preci-sion lightweight GPS receiver or a defenseadvanced GPS receiver, the system cancompute and display target locations.The Mark VII integrates a monocular

direct view optic, an image intensifier, alaser rangefinder and a digital compassinto a day/night target location device.The MARK VII provides a limited nightcapability. Combined with a precisionlightweight GPS receiver or a defense ad-

vanced GPS receiver, the system can com-pute and display target locations.The Mark VIIE is an improved Mark

VII, which adds to all the Mark VII’s capa-bilities a more powerful 8x day optic, anuncooled thermal sight for increased nightperformance, and an embedded GPS re-ceiver for greater accuracy. The TRIGR incorporates a 7x direct view

optic, an improved uncooled thermal sightfor increased sight range, a laser range-finder, a digital compass and GPS that al-lows the system to determine target location.The Joint Effects Targeting System

(JETS) provides the dismounted forwardobserver and joint terminal attack con-troller the ability to acquire, locate, markand designate for precision GPS-guidedand laser-guided munitions, and providesconnectivity to the joint forces through fireand close air support digital planning/

messaging devices. JETS is an Army-led,joint program with the Air Force and Ma-rine Corps to develop and field a one-manportable targeting system for forward ob-servers and joint terminal attack con-trollers. The AN/PSQ-23 Small Tactical Optical

Rifle Mounted (STORM) Micro-LaserRangefinder (MLRF) is a lightweight, mul-tifunctional laser system designed to oper-ate on individual and crew-served weap-ons, the Stryker Remote Weapons Station,and the Common Remotely OperatedWeapons Station. It combines the function-ality of a laser rangefinder, the AN/PEQ-2AInfrared Aiming Laser and Illuminator, theMultiple Integrated Laser Engagement Sys-tem, a digital compass, and a visible pointerinto a single system. Combined with a preci-

sion lightweight GPS receiver or a defenseadvanced GPS receiver, the system can com-pute and display target locations.

Project Manager Soldier Protectionand Individual Equipment (PMSPIE)Project Manager Soldier Protection and

Individual Equipment (PM SPIE) devel-ops and fields advanced soldier protectionproducts, uniforms that enhance missioneffectiveness, and improved parachutesystems. These products are designed toprotect soldiers and enable them to oper-ate in any conditions.

Product Manager Soldier Clothingand Individual Equipment (PMSCIE). Soldiers wear different uniforms depend-

ing on where they are or the duty they are

performing. All Army combat uniformswill have a standardized insect repellenttreatment called permethrin. This treat-ment to the uniform adds additional pro-tection against flying and crawling insects. The Army Combat Uniform (ACU) and

Flame Resistant Combat Uniform (FRA-CU) consist of a jacket, trousers, patrol cap,moisture-wicking T-shirt and Army combatboot (temperate and hot weather) or themountain combat boot for rugged terrain.After receiving soldier feedback, in Feb-

ruary 2010, the Army announced that itwas changing the operational camouflagepattern for Afghanistan from the pixelatedUniversal Camouflage Pattern (UCP) tothe Operation Enduring Freedom Cam-ouflage Pattern (OCP). OCP was selectedfor 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 theaterreceived them that fall. Beginning in August2012, the OCP uniforms included an im-proved fabric and several design changesthat make them more durable in the ruggedterrain and easier to wear.Along with changes in blouses and

trousers, there have been some changes inthe headgear that can be worn with thisuniform. Effective June 2011, the patrol capthat matches the ACU is the primary head-gear for this duty uniform, but at the com-mander’s discretion, the black beret can beworn instead.The Army Service Uniform (ASU) is a

traditional uniform that fully embodies theimperatives of utility, simplicity and qual-ity. The ASU presents a distinctive appear-ance that readily identifies a soldier to theAmerican public. Army blue, green andwhite service uniforms have been stream-lined to one blue uniform as part of anevolutionary process to reduce the numberof Army dress uniforms. Army blue as auniform color traces its origins back to thenational blue of the U.S. flag and was firstmandated for wear by soldiers in the Con-tinental Army of 1779.The ASU provides a basic set of compo-

nents that allow soldiers to dress from thelowest end to the highest end of serviceuniforms with little variation required.The ASU eliminates the need for numer-ous sets of green Class A uniforms, dressblue uniforms and, for some, dress whiteuniforms. Streamlining various dress uni-forms into one ASU reduces the burden onsoldiers in the same manner that the ACUdid for the field utility uniform. The ASU includes a coat and low-waist

trousers for male soldiers, and a coat,slacks and skirt for female soldiers. Thefabric of the ASU consists of a 55 percentwool and 45 percent polyester blend,which is heavier and more wrinkle-resis-tant than the present commercially avail-

368 ARMY � October 2012

AN/PSQ-23 Small Tactical Optical Rifle Mounted(STORM) Micro-Laser Rangefinder (MLRF)

able blue uniform. The new ASU coat hasan athletic cut to improve fit and appear-ance, and includes an improved heavierand 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 berequired to have both the service cap andthe beret by the mandatory possessiondate. Commanders have the discretion todetermine if corporals and above wear ei-ther the service cap or the beret. The cur-rent black accessories, such as the wind-breaker, all-weather coat, overcoat andsweaters, may be worn with the ASU. In addition to the clothing changes, the

ASU will allow soldiers to wear the newCombat Service Identification Badge (CSIB)to honor the heritage and traditions of com-bat service. The CSIB replicates the formerWartime Service Shoulder Sleeve Insigniaon the ACU. In addition, the green leaderstab is not authorized for wear on the ASU.The blue ASU was introduced to mili-

tary clothing sales stores in the fourthquarter of FY 2007. The Army introducedthe ASU into soldiers’ clothing bags at ini-tial-entry training in FY 2010. The manda-tory possession date for the ASU for allsoldiers is the fourth quarter of FY 2014.

Product Manager Soldier ProtectiveEquipmentProduct Manager Soldier Protective

Equipment (PM SPE) increases the war-fighter’s lethality and mobility by optimiz-ing soldier protection while effectivelymanaging all life-cycle aspects of personalprotective equipment.Interceptor Body Armor (IBA) is a joint-

service item designed and developed to in-corporate the requirements of the Armyand Marine Corps. Interceptor is themodel name for a modular, multiple-threatbody armor system consisting of a basetactical vest and modular components,with small-arms protective inserts de-signed to defeat multiple ballistic hazardsacross the battlefield continuum. The Im-proved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) is aside-opening vest that can be donned overthe head or right shoulder. An internalwaistband is incorporated inside the vestfor increased stability. The vest providesfragmentation and handgun protection.The IOTV consists of a groin protector,front yoke and collar, lower back protectorand deltoid protector. The IOTV integrateswith all modular lightweight load-carry-ing equipment (MOLLE) components andincorporates a quick-release system foremergency doffing. Since the inception ofthe IOTV, there have been numerous up-grades to the vest due to warfighter feed-back. All these improvements have en-hanced the form, fit and functionality ofthe system. The Deltoid and Auxiliary

Protector (DAP) is a component of IBAthat provides additional fragmentationand handgun protection to the upper armand underarm areas. The DAP was devel-oped as an add-on to the OTV to protectsoldiers from the threat of improvised ex-plosive devices in current operations. Thisauxiliary protective capability is not re-quired for the IOTV, as it is already inte-grated. The Enhanced Small Arms Protec-tive Insert (ESAPI) plates providemultiple-hit protection to the chest andback against various small-arms threats.The Enhanced Side Ballistic Insert (ESBI)plates provide additional ballistic protec-tion for the soldier’s sides, which are notcovered by ESAPI. The ESBI can also with-stand small-arms hits from the samethreats the ESAPI defends against. The X-Threat Small Arms Protective Insert (XS-API) plate was designed to meet short-term emerging threats and provideadditional ballistic protection against morelethal small-arms rounds. The X-ThreatSide Ballistic Insert (XSBI) plates provideballistic protection for the soldier’s sides,which are not covered by XSAPI. The XSBIcan also withstand small-arms hits fromthe same threats the XSAPI defendsagainst. The IOTV includes integratedESBI/XSBI side-plate carriers, which re-duces redundant overlapping soft armorprotection and decreases overall weight.The Soldier Plate Carrier System (SPCS)

is a lightweight, flexible vest that provides acomfortable and secure fit with the capacityto accommodate hard body armor plates. Itis designed to accommodate the ESAPI, XS-API, ESBI, and XSBI hard armor ballistic

plates. Specific characteristics include aMOLLE webbing on the front and back ofthe carrier for mounting of MOLLE compo-nents; compatibility with other equipment(Nett Warrior, rucksack and tactical assaultpanel—without impeding the ability toshoulder a weapon); easy don and doff ca-pability; an increased range of sizes to en-sure a comfortable fit for soldiers with theappropriate size ballistic plates inserted;wiring integration; drag strap for casualtyremoval capability; durability; and avail-ability in OCP. An optional cummerbundhas been added as a result of feedback re-ceived from soldiers in the field.The legacy Concealable Body Armor

(CBA) is intended to be worn by soldiersin military police units, corrections, con-finement and law-enforcement operations,Department of Defense investigative andsecurity components, and other U.S. mili-tary forces. The CBA offers ballistics pro-tection NIJ Level IIIA. The CBA providesmaximum torso coverage while maintain-ing comfort and the ability to conceal.The Family of Concealable Body Armor

(FoCBA) program will replace the legacyCBA. The FoCBA will standardize the CBAfor all Army components and a portion ofthe DoD police force. The FoCBA providestwo types of vest protection based on theoperating environment or mission. TheType 1 vest will provide Level IIIA ballisticprotection to the NIJ 0101.06 standard andstab protection to Level I of the NIJ 0115.00standard. The Type 2 vest will provide stabprotection that will meet NIJ 0115.00 stan-dard for Level III stab protection (Califor-nia ice pick, single-edged blades, and dou-

October 2012 � ARMY 369

Interceptor BodyArmor (IBA)

ble-edged blades), while meeting additionalArmy requirements. These vests will allowfor increased mission effectiveness by pro-viding improved protection and a selectionbased on the operational environment. The Pelvic Protection System (PPS) is a

two-tiered system composed of a Tier Iprotective under garment (PUG) and aTier II protective outer garment (POG).The PUG is a system worn next to the skindesigned to stop small fragments, reducethe penetration of dirt in wounds and min-imize the risk of infection from fine debris.The POG is a system worn over the ACUand, in conjunction with the Tier 1 PUG,designed to reduce penetrations of largerthreats and debris. The POG provides bal-listic protection similar to that of the Im-proved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV). The Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH)

comes in five shell sizes (small, medium,large, extra large, and extra-extra large)and includes a modular pad suspensionsystem, retention system and ballistic napepad. The modular pad suspension systemimproves blunt-force impact protection,stability and comfort. The cotton/polyesterretention system, a four-point design, al-lows for quick adjustment for head size.The ballistic nape pad attaches to the reten-tion system, improving comfort and stabil-ity and providing protection against smallarms and fragmentation threats to the napearea of the neck. The ACH weighs 2.9 to 3.8pounds, depending on size. The helmetcover is available in UCP and OCP. The Enhanced Combat Helmet (ECH)

improves ballistic protection, stability andcomfort without adding weight or degrad-ing the soldier’s hearing and field of vi-sion. The ECH provides increased protec-

tion against ballistic and fragmentationthreats. The ECH uses advanced thermo-plastic materials that require differentmanufacturing processes from those asso-ciated with resin-impregnated para-aramids. The ECH weighs from 2.8pounds (for a size small) to 4.0 pounds (fora size large). The helmet cover is availablein UCP or OCP. The Helmet Sensor (HS) GEN II is a

small, lightweight, low-power sensor suitethat mounts inside the Advanced CombatHelmet or combat vehicle crewman helmetto record traumatic incidents such as IEDexplosions or vehicle accidents and docu-ment the forces exerted by those incidentson the soldier’s head. Soldiers sometimesappear to go through traumatic incidentsunscathed, only to later develop symp-toms of mild traumatic brain injury. Thehelmet sensors measure and record Gforces exerted on six different axes andalso collect information on overpressure.This goes into a database that compilesmany such incidents and can be cross-cor-related with medical records and reportsto help researchers determine if there is alink between brain injuries of varioustypes and the forces exerted on the sol-dier’s head. This database of incidents andmedical outcomes will help the Armymedical community establish a body ofknowledge for development of an objec-tive head exposure monitor and rapidhead injury screening tool. The Military Combat Eye Protection

(MCEP) program is an umbrella programgeared toward protecting soldiers’ eyesfrom external threats and hazards such asballistic fragmentation, electromagnetic ra-diation, sand, wind, and dust during day

and night missions. The MCEP provides eyeprotection for both prescription and nonpre-scription wearers in a variety of commercialstyles and sizes. Given this variety of eye-wear, soldiers can choose the best eyewearfor 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. Thissystem uses new materials technology anddesign to provide protection, comfort, andergonomic efficiency. The ABS ensembleconsists of the EOD 8 bomb suit and EOD 9helmet. 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 atvarious levels specific to body regions,based on wounding potential. Blast over-pressure protection is provided to the frontof the thorax. Impact protection is pro-vided to the head and spine. Heat andflame protection are provided by resistantmaterials. The suit includes an ice-basedcooling system to extend mission duration.A hand-protection module provides in-creased protection. The system can be re-moved in less than 30 seconds. All ballisticinserts are removable to facilitate launder-ing and repair. The system is equippedwith provisions that allow for future com-munications, performance and capabilityupgrades.

Project Manager Soldier Weapons(PM SW)Project Manager Solder Weapons (PM

SW) ensures that soldiers have battlefielddominance in individual and crew-servedweapons capabilities. PM SW supports sol-diers through the development, acquisition,fielding and sustainment of current and fu-ture weapons systems and associated targetacquisition/fire control products. As a re-sult of PM SW’s efforts, soldiers benefitfrom continuous improvement programsand are equipped with systems that enhancetheir lethality and survivability. Two prod-uct managers under PM SW drive the mis-sion: Product Manager Individual Weapons(PM IW) and Product Manager CrewServed Weapons (PM CSW).

Product Manager Individual Weapons(PM IW) Product Manager Individual Weapons

(PM IW) is responsible for current and fu-ture rifles, carbines, pistols, shotguns,grenade launchers, sniper systems, air-burst weapons and related target acquisi-tion/fire control products. The XM25 Individual Semi-Automatic

Airburst System (ISAAS) is the U.S.Army’s latest developmental weapon de-signed to address the problem of defeatingenemies behind cover, defilade and ex-

370 ARMY � October 2012

Advanced Bomb Suit (ABS)

posed targets at ranges and accuracies notseen in today’s small arms by firing 25 mmhigh-explosive airburst (HEAB) muni-tions. The XM25 incorporates full-solutiontarget acquisition/fire control that inte-grates a thermal sight, 2x direct-view op-tics, a laser rangefinder, compass, fuze set-ter, ballistic computer and internal display. The M4/M4A1 5.56 mm Carbine is de-

signed for lightness, speed, mobility andfirepower and is standard issue for brigadecombat teams. Throughout more than 10years of sustained combat operations, theM4 has proven itself an effective weaponsystem that serves soldiers extremely well.The system is 1 pound lighter and moreportable than the M16 series of rifles. TheM4 series of carbines can also be mountedwith the M203A2 Grenade Launcher, M320Grenade Launcher or M26 Modular Acces-sory Shotgun System. The weapon has re-ceived many performance-based designimprovements since its inception. TheArmy authorized the upgrade of all M4s tothe M4A1 configuration in September 2010.The M4A1 has full automatic capability, anambidextrous fire selector and a slightlyheavier barrel that increases the sustainedrate of fire.The M16A2/A4 Series 5.56 mm Rifle is

the most prevalent combat rifle in the U.S.Army inventory. It is a gas-operated, air-cooled, shoulder-fired weapon that can befired either in automatic three-roundbursts or semiautomatic single shots. TheM16A2 has an integral rear sight, while theM16A4 includes a military standard (MIL-STD) 1913 upper receiver and forward railsystem with a backup iron sight. Both sys-tems can accommodate modern optics andaccessories, as well as configurations thatincorporate M203 and M320 40 mm gre-nade launchers.The M320 Grenade Launcher enables

soldiers to accurately engage the enemy indaylight or total darkness out to 350 meterswith 40 mm low-velocity grenades. TheM320 will replace all M203 series grenadelaunchers mounted on the M16/M4 seriesof rifles and carbines. The weapon includesa 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 adouble-action trigger/firing system.The M26 12-Gauge Modular Accessory

Shotgun System (MASS) provides sol-diers with a 12-gauge shotgun accessoryattachment with lethal, less-than-lethaland door-breaching capabilities. The sys-tem attaches underneath the barrel of theM4 Carbine and provides a capabilityequivalent to a stand-alone shotgun with-out carrying a second separate weapon.The M26 can also be converted withouttools to operate in a stand-alone mode.The Army began fielding the M26 to selectengineer and MP units in 2012.

The M107 Semi-Automatic Long RangeSniper Rifle (LRSR) fires .50-caliber am-munition and is capable of delivering pre-cise, rapid fire on targets out to 2,000 me-ters. It is especially valuable during militaryoperations in urban terrain, where greaterfirepower and standoff ranges providecounter-sniper capability while enhancingsniper survivability. The new XM2010 Enhanced Sniper Ri-

fle (ESR) is a fully upgraded M24 SniperWeapon System that has been recham-bered to fire .300 WinMag ammunition.The bolt action, magazine-fed system pro-vides precision fire on targets at ranges 50percent farther than existing 7.62 mmsniper systems. The XM2010 is equippedwith a suppressor and a fully adjustableright-folding chassis system featuring amonolithic MIL-STD 1913 accessory railand accessory cable routing channels. Theshooter interface can be tailored to accom-modate a wide range of shooter prefer-ences. The XM2010 is fielded with a Le-upold Mark 4 6.5 to 20x50 mm extendedrange/tactical riflescope with a scalableranging and targeting reticle and anAN/PVS-29 Clip-on Sniper Night Sight.The Army fielded the XM2010 to all sniperteams operating in Afghanistan in 2011.The M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper Sys-

tem (SASS) is the U.S. Army’s medium-caliber sniper rifle that supplements the

sniper’s role to support combat operationswith greater firepower and versatility. The7.62 mm SASS brings a semiautomatic ca-pability to sniper teams and is particularlyeffective in urban areas where there aremultiple targets and frequent close-combat

situations. The M110 comes with a sup-pressor and incorporates a 3.5x10 scopewith illuminated mil-reticle. It also comeswith the M151 Enhanced Spotting Scope,which allows recognition and identifica-tion of targets at long distances. With pow-erful and bright optics, the spotting scopehas 12 to 40x magnification with a 60 mmobjective lens diameter. The scope has aLeupold mil dot (round dot) reticle forboth range estimation and tactical collabo-ration with the shooter. The scope isweatherproof and fogproof.The M14 7.62 mm Enhanced Battle Ri-

fle (EBR) provides infantry squads operat-ing in Afghanistan with interim capabilityto engage enemy targets beyond the rangeof M4 Carbines and M16 Rifles. Theweapon is air-cooled, gas-operated andmagazine-fed. It is a modern M14 riflemated to an enhanced aluminum billetstock, tactical scope and cantilever mount.The rifle is effective in close-quarters com-bat and in the conceptual squad desig-nated marksman role. The M9 9 mm Pistol enhances lethality

and survivability in close combat situa-tions via a pistol with rail-attachment ca-pabilities. It is the primary sidearm of thecrew-served weapon crewmembers andothers who have a personal defense re-quirement, such as law-enforcement per-sonnel, unit leaders and aviators.

The M68 Close Combat Optic (CCO) is ared-dot aiming device that enhances targetacquisition speed, allowing soldiers to en-gage targets up to 300 meters with both eyesopen to maintain situational awareness. Thesight has no magnification and can be used

October 2012 � ARMY 371

M320 Grenade Launcher

with all current night-vision enhancements. The M150 Rifle Combat Optic (RCO) is

a rugged, battery-free, 4x magnified opticthat provides full mission profile opticalcapability for use on the M4/M16/M249weapon systems. Enhanced capabilitiesprovided by the M150 RCO include rangeestimation, which, along with the bulletdrop compensated reticle, provides accu-rate target engagements out to 800 metersfor trained operators.

Product Manager Crew ServedWeapons (PM CSW)Product Manager Crew Served Weapons

(PM CSW) is responsible for current andfuture light and heavy machine guns,grenade launchers, related target acquisi-tion/fire control products and remoteweapons systems.

The M153 Common Remotely OperatedWeapon Station (CROWS) provides sol-diers with the ability to acquire and engagetargets while protected inside an armoredvehicle. CROWS is a stabilized mount thatcontains a sensor suite and fire control soft-ware, allowing on-the-move target acquisi-tion and first-burst target engagement. Ca-pable of target engagement under day andnight conditions, the CROWS sensor suiteincludes a daytime video camera, thermalcamera and laser rangefinder. CROWS isdesigned to mount on any tactical vehicleand supports the Mk 19 40 mm grenademachine gun, M2 .50-caliber machine gun,M240B 7.62 mm machine gun, and M2495.56 mm squad automatic weapon.The Mk 19 40 mm Grenade Machine

Gun (GMG) is an air-cooled, belt-fed, blow-back-operated fully automatic weapon sys-tem. It has a maximum effective range of 2,212 meters for area targets and 1,500

meters for point targets. It fires standardhigh-velocity 40 mm grenade cartridges, in-cluding M383 high-explosive antipersonnelrounds, high-explosive dual-purpose (an-tipersonnel and armor-piercing) rounds,and training practice rounds. The Mk 19supports the soldier in offensive and defen-sive roles by delivering a heavy volume ofaccurate and continuous firepower againstenemy personnel and lightly armored vehi-cles. It can be mounted on a tripod or onmultiple vehicle platforms and is the pri-mary suppressive weapon for combat sup-port and combat service support units.The M2 .50-caliber Machine Gun is au-

tomatic, belt-fed, recoil-operated and air-cooled. The battle-proven system mountson the M3 tripod and on most vehicleswhile also serving as an antipersonnel andantiaircraft weapon. It is highly effective

against light armored vehicles, low- andslow-flying aircraft, and small boats. TheM2 provides automatic weapon suppres-sive fire for offensive and defensive pur-poses. It is capable of single-shot (groundM2 machine gun) and automatic fire. Inpost-combat surveys, soldiers rated theM2 among the most effective weapon sys-tems in their small-arms arsenal.The M2A1 with Quick-Change Barrel

and fixed headspace and timing is an en-hancement to the M2 .50-caliber machinegun, offering soldiers increased perfor-mance and design improvements thatmake it easier and safer to use. The M2A1speeds target engagement and improvessurvivability and safety by reducing thetime required to change the barrel andeliminating the need to manually adjustheadspace and timing. The M2A1 also pro-vides a flash hider that reduces muzzleflash by 95 percent, making the weapon

less detectable in darkness. The Army be-gan fielding the M2A1 in 2011 and plans toupgrade its entire fleet of 45,000 M2s to theM2A1 standard.The M240B 7.62 mm Medium Machine

Gun is a ground-mounted, gas-operated,crew-served machine gun. The cyclic rate is550 to 650 rounds per minute, and theweapon’s maximum effective range againstarea targets is 1,800 meters. It comes withan accessory rail integrated with the topcover that is used to attach sighting devices.It is issued to infantry, armor, field artilleryand combat engineer units that requiremedium-support fire.The M240L 7.62 mm Medium Machine

Gun (Light) weighs approximately 5pounds less than the existing M240B, whilemeeting all of its reliability and operationalcharacteristics. The M240L incorporates ti-tanium construction and alternative manu-facturing methods to achieve its weightsavings. These improvements reduce thesoldier’s combat load while the weaponsystem’s short barrel and collapsible butt-stock configuration allow easier handlingand movement of the weapon. Designatedan Army’s Greatest Invention of 2010, theM240L is rugged and reliable and has aminimum 50,000-round receiver life.The M240H 7.62 mm Machine Gun

(Aviation Version) is designed for aviationapplication and demonstrates reliabilityequal to that of the M240B. It delivers twominutes of continuous suppressive fireand is removable for use in a ground role.It replaces the M60D machine gun for theUH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinookhelicopters 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 infantrysquads. The M249 SAW is an air-cooled,belt-fed, 5.56 mm weapon with fixed head-space and a quick-change barrel. Theweapon can be fired from the shoulder, bi-pod/tripod-mounted or vehicle-mountedposition. It replaced the M16 rifle in thesquad automatic rifle role. The Army’s improved machine-gun tri-

pod systems include the M192 LightweightGround Mount for Machine Guns and theXM205 Lightweight Heavy Machine GunTripod. The M192 provides a lighter weight,low-profile mounting platform for the M249and M240 for controlled, sustained and ac-curate fire at extended ranges. The M192 iscompact and collapsible and weighs 6pounds less than the M122A1 tripod it re-places. PM CSW will begin fielding theXM205 in 2013 for the dismounted M2 andMk 19 to enable a quicker, more accuratetarget engagement. At 34 pounds, theXM205 weighs 16 pounds less than the cur-rent M3 heavy tripod and offers an inte-grated traverse and elevation mechanismthat can be operated with one hand.

372 ARMY � October 2012

M2 .50-caliber Machine Gun