As the Corps increases its footprint in the Arctic to align with the new security strategy, it’s also in the midst of overhauling its cold weather gear.
On Thursday the Corps awarded a contract to Provengo LLC for more than $9 million for the purchase of its new ski system, according to the government’s business opportunities website.
According to SoldierSystems.net, the ski system will be made by Serket USA and will include its Scout model mounted with its Patrol ski binding.
The Scout skis are shorter and wider than traditional backcountry military skis and weigh in at just over six pounds for the pair. The Patrol binding can accommodate a variety of boot styles and can operate in “free-heel” mode for walking or can be locked down for gliding.
RELATED
The new skis move the Corps another step forward in its process to modernize for a potential fight with near-peer rivals.
The Corps announced it was searching for a new ski system in a command release in May.
The Marine Corps said it wanted the new ski system to be compatible with the Extreme Cold Weather Vapor Barrier Boots and the Intermediate Cold Weather Boots, according to May’s command release.
A durable and reliable ski system is vital for mobility in Arctic terrain where even the simplest of tasks can be very arduous and physically tasking.
Marines have been training in Norway to hone their warfighting skills in the extreme cold-weather climate. This week, the Corps’ largest and fourth six-month rotation to the Arctic country kicked off.
Military.com first reported the new ski system contract.
Shawn Snow is the senior reporter for Marine Corps Times and a Marine Corps veteran.
