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Gearing up for transformation
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Posted: 28 Mar 2007, 1500 hours (Time is GMT +8 hours)

Story by Chen Weili
Pictures by Chua Soon Lye

In January, the SAF introduced new and enhanced personal equipment for recruits undergoing Basic Military Training. PIONEER takes a closer look at the new personal equipment, which is aimed at improving the soldiers' operational performance.

Load Bearing Vest (LBV)

The most significant change to the line-up of personal equipment, the LBV replaces the Skeletal Battle Order (SBO), which has been around since the 1990s.

The Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) system (see story below) has been added to the LBV. With this, soldiers can customise their LBV to suit their operational needs. For example, an M203 gunner can attach an M203 ammunition pouch onto his LBV, while a sniper can attach a sniper ammunition pouch onto his.

Another major change is the introduction of a three-litre hydration bag. This allows a soldier to drink water while keeping his hands firmly on his weapon during operations.

Bigger field pack

Compared to the previous version, the new field pack is 80 per cent bigger. This gives soldiers the option of carrying more equipment, should the operational situation require them to do so. The MOLLE system is also compatible with the new field pack. Again, soldiers can carry more equipment only if their missions require them to do so.

To make it easier for soldiers to reach into the bag for their equipment, the bag is designed for front-loading, compared to the top loading found in the older field pack.

With enhanced back cushioning, it feels more comfortable, too!

Utility Torchlight (left)

This is an improved torchlight which has Xenon and LED lighting modes. The enhanced waterproofing feature also makes it suitable for use for missions in challenging environments.

Multi-Purpose Knife (right)

New tools like the screwdriver and wood-saw join the pocket Swiss knife as standard equipment for urban warfare.
Beyond BMT
What you have seen so far is the basic set-up for recruits in the BMT phase. Beyond BMT, the basic set-up can be expanded to meet specific demands like urban warfare. In their respective units, soldiers will be equipped with additional equipment like the following:

Utility Bag

The utility bag can be used to hold small operational equipment during missions, or when the improved field pack is not required.

It can store items like coloured flags, extra ammunition and spare batteries. If necessary, the utility bag can also be attached to the LBV or improved field pack using the MOLLE system.

Knee and Elbow Guards

Urban manoeuvring actions, like kneeling and crawling on rubble, can cause injuries. These guards will help prevent such injuries.

Ballistic Goggles

These goggles help to shield the users' eyes from blast fragments and debris. The goggles can be worn over spectacles.

First, loop the strap through the LBV slot.
First, loop the strap through the LBV slot.
Then loop the strap onto the pouch slot again. Repeat this process until all the slots are looped.
Then loop the strap onto the pouch slot again. Repeat this process until all the slots are looped.
Secure the pouch by sliding the remaining strap either behind the LBV or the pouch’s slot.
Secure the pouch by sliding the remaining strap either behind the LBV or the pouch’s slot.
The MOLLE System
The United States Army first introduced the MOLLE system in 1988. It works by connecting a series of ready-made loops to nylon straps on the pouches and the load-bearing equipment. In layman's terms, pouches are 'weaved' onto MOLLE-ready equipment like the LBV and improved field pack.



Last updated on 20 Apr 2007
 
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