The Marine Corps is in the market for flame resistant, inclement weather combat shirts, with a goal of buying at least 35,000 by November 2017.
Marine Corps Systems Command in March issued a "request for proposals" last month, which offers companies industry the chance to develop and submit prototypes for further testing. Submissions are due by May 2.
Unlike a developmental effort, in which multiple prototypes would be tested by Marines, this is a production contract in which technical team members will evaluate samples against set technical specifications and evaluation criteria, said Barb Hamby, MARSYSCOM spokeswoman.
The specs call for a flame-resistant, water-repellent pullover shirt that will protect against wind, blowing sand and light rain/snow during field and combat operations. It will come in four looks patterns: woodland and desert Marine pattern, Desert MARPAT, Woodland MARPAT, Navy Working Uniform Type II and NWU Type III.
The shirt will be compatible with improved modular tactical vests and plate carriers. Testing must demonstrate no more than 5 percent total burn injury, to include second- and third- 2nd and 3rd degree burns, when worn under the plate carrier, and no more than 25 percent without the plate carrier. On the other end of the spectrum, there can be no more than a five 5 square inches of wet fabric underneath ted area under the shirt after the 30 minutes of rainfall.
This illustration shows the requirements for the front of the new Marine inclement weather shirt.
Photo Credit: Courtesy
The shirt will come with a water-resistant slide fastener on the front and a stand-up mock turtleneck collar. Each sleeve will have a vertical patch pocket with drainage holes and a concealed two-button closure flap that can hold rank and infrared tabs.
The shoulders and back will provide added water resistance, while the stretch woven torso is designed to provide moisture management and improved comfort when worn under body armor.
Competitors looking to develop the Marine Corps' new inclement weather shirt must be able to produce up to 58,100.
Photo Credit: Courtesy
Competitors will supply seven shirts in the woodland MARPAT along with color, and two yards of the material used.
They must show the ability to produce at least 37,000 shirts over a 12-month period, according to the request. The estimated maximum quantity is 58,100.
The inclement weather combat shirt will complete the Marine Corps' flame resistant organizational gear, or FROG combat ensemble. These include the long-sleeve T-shirt, mid-weight fleece gloves, and light and mid-weight balaclavas.
Lance M. Bacon is senior reporter for Marine Corps Times. He covers Marine Corps Combat Development Command, Marine Corps Forces Command, personnel / career issues, Marine Corps Logistics Command, II MEF, and Marine Forces North. He can be reached at lbacon@marinecorpstimes.com.
