Necessity is the mother of invention. The owners of MATBOCK wanted a better combat litter and they went ahead and invented one.
Right from the get go, there is something different about the LIFT System in that it is dual purpose. Not only is it a litter but it is also a Sensitive Site Exploitation bag, or it could be used for other tasks such as collecting a casualty’s equipment. Weighing in at 1 lb the litter is made from parachute nylon with reinforcements across its width. Here you can see a loaded example along with its shoulder strap. It unzips and unfolds to form the litter. Once opened up it is 6-1/2 feet long.
It can be used alone as a poleless litter and features grab handles that also serve as slots for the Combat Carbon Poles.
The Combat Carbon Poles are collapsible with shock cord inserts so they are always connected even when broken down for portage. The CCP extends to 7 ft 6¼ and breaks down to five sections 1 ft 9¼ inches long. The individual poles weigh only 1.3 lbs each and together, with the LIFT will support 400 lbs. They also come with MOLLE mounting straps so they can be attached to a pack or armor vest.
Due to size, weight and cost of the CCP, it is envisioned that several members of an element will carry the LIFT but only one man will hump the CCP. This offers a team the option of collecting a lot of evidence during SSE and/or several soft litters. MATBOCK informed SSD that they are taking a look at developing attachments to make the CCP multipurpose products as well.
For more information on the Lightweight Integrated Field Transport System and Combat Carbon Poles check out their informational brochure.
To order, visit www.matbock.com/products/medical.
