Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1086092
There were some problems with durability of threads, 550 cords adjustments were caching the branches, etc. Some soldiers just didn't like them as too complicated. Even for me donning the VTLB is pain in the ass. I always end stuck somewhere between the straps and cords. Except that, it is really comfortable and works better that Y-harness. Common complain was crawling in VTLB, but it was just a matter of changing the habits and we all are creatures of habit. Most of the soldiers claimed that it is easier to go prone with ALICE belt kit with unbuckled belt than with the vest. As photos confirmed, everyone was wearing the vest as they liked it. Same thing about the FPLIF. It was comfortable and innovative but huge. Itss capacity was a problem. Packed to the top it was darn heavy and most of soldiers complained about it. The silhouette of the pack was pretty high and above the shoulders. Some items barely fit long and narrow pack than in box-shaped ALICE pack. Remember, each unit has their own SOP for packing the pack. Some of the parts, especially the plastic ones, were vulnerable to damages. Torso-Trac adjustment was breaking during carrying, but the reason for that was the moving the pack from place to another while dragging the suspenders not a carry handle. ALICE shoulders straps didn't have that problem. The most sceptic were the airborne units, which were caused to totally re-develop their jumping procedures and loadout. Less durable IIFS wasn't popular. The most liked part was a patrol pack, which was often purchased privately or wasn't turned to CIF. When you look for reference pics, the IIFS vests and packs are not very common. If they are, for sure they will be mixed with ALICE parts. What is more important, new equipment replacing the old and destroyed or exploited one only. The full-scale introduction of new system would require some kind of revolution and so the VTLB and FLPIF had to wait until the stocks of ALICE will be depleted. The revolution finally came but in early 2000s when the brand new MOLLE system with modular platforms, pouches and pack was developed. The Interceptor Body Armor allowed for direct attachment of pouches, the canteens were often replaced with hydration packs and unit commanders allowed for use private purchased gear. The IIFS was used by US Army, USMC and USSF. During the operations in Balkans in 1994 and in Kosovo in 1999 VTLBs seems to be common, in both generations. The FPLIF packs were extensively used by 10th Mountain Division and they can be observed in the pictures from Uphold Democracy on Haiti. IIFS was combat used in early OEF in 2003 by 1st and 4th Infantry Division and first generation was still in use. It should be highlighted that in mechanized infantry units, separated load carrying vest and body armor was standard safety procedure. It easier to bail out of hit armored vehicle without unnecessary bulk but still with body armor. Depending on units, missions and functions, the IIFS some units was loved and hated in others. The IIFS nail in the coffin was introduction of ACU in 2004 what made the system totally color-incompatible with uniforms. In meantime, based on combat experiences from OIF and OEF, new systems were developed. Some components of IIFS were still in use in support units, but since 2010 they were only seen in Basic Training and National Guard. In last few years, the training process was changed into more realistic one and body armor is used to follow the train as you fight, fight as your train principle. After 2001 huge number of IIFS was sent to US Allies. IIFS is kind of underrated product. It was used on the wider-scale for just 10 years and even ALICE system remained in production after IIFS was dropped. ALICE is still being manufactured (some parts of it). IIFS wasn't a totally new system but it introduced a totally new concept of equipment carry. The Americans in 1980s were able to drop the proven beltkit loadout and design systems based on new and innovative fabrics and solutions, still backward compatible. The IIFS has also a strong influence on all future systems developments and it encourage DOD to work with commercial industry. . www.fragoutmag.com