Unfortunately, the Marines haven’t released any photos of their new issue pack called FILBE. Yes, it’s odd, but so is the whole tale of its adoption. However, what we do have is a photo of the pack on a Mystery Ranch NICE frame rather than the issue Down East 1606 frame. You can clearly see MR’s new Removable Bolster System on the frame and word has it that they had a hand in development of FILBE. Interestingly, the 1606 fame was actually developed for use by the Army’s airborne forces who needed a shorter frame to accommodate the seating on cargo aircraft. The pack sits atop the thighs when rigged paratroopers are seated.
Hopefully, the Marines will display an issue version of the FILBE at this week’s Modern Day Marine.
Tags: Down East, Mystery Ranch, NICE, USMC
This might be the actual FILBE picture, with the 1606: http://loadbearingequipment.info/FILBE/PackSystem.png
the pic loaded by “BS” was the one used in the Military Times article from nov 2010. it is an early proto, but pretty much represents the FILBE (except for low end hardware). Look for the OEM Prime MFRs that won the contract at MDM, they will have Prod sample on display.
Look for some of the items at MDM at the ATK booth.
It fits on the MR NICE frame? Great -can’t take any more of that 1606 frame. Just need to figure out how to sneak the purchase past the wife.
Propper is going to have a FILBE at booth 1234 during MDM.