Coming soon from Grey Ghost Gear, equipment in Hyde Definition’s PenCott family of camo patterns.
The AquaSource 20l is the first accessory designed to fit the USMC’s new pack frame. As you can see, the AquaSource adapts directly to the Down East 1606 frame (and the Army-issue 1600 frame as well) allowing a single Marine to effect a water resupply for his Squad. The AquaSource holds 20l of water in its collapsible bladder which features Source’s Glass-like reservoir technology. There are multiple carrying handles including integral shoulder straps for use in a pinch. Additionally, it adapts directly to Source Hydration’s Vehicle Hydration System.
To order, military and agencies visit www.adsinc.com/source-hydration.
Propper International gave us a few minutes with this production example.
Here you can see the details of the molded waist belt.
The Pack also comes with 2 Sustainment Pouches, a Horizontal GP Pocket, and a Hydration Carrier.
Finally, there is an Assault Pack. While it can be mounted crossways on top of the pack, it is really meant as more of a stand alone item. The channels along the back (seen under the shoulder straps) are open cell foam but we are told the material used will not absorb water. Additionally, the panel loader has an assymetric 2-way zipper that opens lower on the wearer’s left side. The outer pocket features an internal mesh pocket while the main compartment also has a mesh pocket and will accommodate a radio.
It seems the Marines aren’t quite so taken with the term “FILBE” (Family of Improved Load Bearing Equipment) which was used to differentiate this new external frame pack from its predecessor during the solicitation.
At MDM we heard a couple of terms being used like “Marine Corps Pack Suite” which could basically denote any old set of packs. Hopefully, they will lock something down soon. My favorite alternative was “MELBA” for Marine Enhanced Load Bearing Assembly.
FILBE or whatever it’s being called is so new that PM-ICE didn’t even have a production sample available to display. But that doesn’t mean that this program isn’t on the fast track. The fielding schedule is very aggressive with the entire run complete within 18 months at the outside. In fact, the first delivery order has already been placed.
Propper International is one of the companies chosen to build FILBE for the USMC. Here is the Assault Pack. It features an asymmetric zipper for the main compartment.
Look for photos of the full pack soon.
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.
Just released last week, this is the digital version of the Mystery Ranch military products catalog. Look for several new products including: armor solutions (BASE, removable BVS bolsters), COMM3 pack, 3-zip Overload, and redesigned RATS pack. If you’re going to be at Modern Day Marine Marine next week be sure to visit MR in booth #3115 to see everything first hand.
2012 Mystery Ranch Military Catalog
The Triple Aught Design packs in MultiCam haven’t even been released yet and already there is a solicitation for them.
The 306th RQS is looking for:
0001 – 45 EA: FAST Pack EDC (T00170) Multicam or equal
0002 – 45 EA: BC8 (T00041) pouch or equal
0003 – 45 EA: BC4 (T00040) pouch or equal
0004 – 45 EA: PRP (500061) pouch or equal
0005 – 45 EA: OP1 (T00059) pouch or equal
0006 – 45 EA: RDDP2 (T00062) pouch or equal
0007 – 45 EA: MOLLE Panel (T00055) Coyote Khaki or equal