The U.S. Army and Marine Corps are working to reduce the weight of gear worn or carried in combat (see GAO White Paper GAO-17-431, May 2017). Ground personnel currently carry an average of 120 lbs of gear. A large portion comes from personal protective equipment (PPE), such as vests, hard and soft armor, and helmets. Additional equipment includes cell phones, cameras, radios, ammunition, weapons, food, water, and miscellaneous items. Efforts are underway to integrate equipment and explore initiatives like improved logistics, aerial delivery capabilities, and load transfer systems to lessen this burden.
This resolution suggests exploring wearable less-than-lethal tactical response systems (WLLTRS), which integrate a ballistic exoskeleton worn on the forearm. Basic models operate as stand-alone data terminals and communication hubs with a high-resolution, low-power AMOLED screen interface. Features include situational awareness location information, HD camera/recording, mapping, identification/targeting laser, visual disruptor/illumination, and 750KV drive stunner. Customizable features include facial recognition, FLIR camera, TASER, and detection of explosives, toxic airborne chemicals, illicit drugs, and cell phones. The goal is to reduce the weight carried by service members and ensure a comfortable fit.

The Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States urges Congress to increase funding for the development and production of WLLTRS. Meet the intent of the National Defense Authorization Agreement and GAO-17-431 to reduce the weight of PPE and other carried items while enhancing ground forces’ capabilities in security, crowd control, corrections, law enforcement, and combat scenarios.