This is a list of individual combat equipment issued by the United States Marine Corps

United States Marine Corps

The United States Marine Corps is a branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for providing power projection from the sea, using the mobility of the United States Navy to deliver combined-arms task forces rapidly. It is one of seven uniformed services of the United States...

. This list does not include items that are issued as uniforms

Uniforms of the United States Marine Corps

The Uniforms of the United States Marine Corps serve to distinguish Marines from members of other services. Among current uniforms in the United States Armed Forces, the Marines' uniforms have been in service the longest...

 or weapons and ordnance.

Many items on this list have nicknames. See list of United States Marine Corps acronyms and expressions.

Defensive

Ballistic vests

• The Modular Tactical Vest
  Modular Tactical Vest
  The Modular Tactical Vest or is a bulletproof vest originally adopted by the United States Marine Corps in 2006. The MTV was designed as a solution to shortcomings in the current, decade-old interceptor body armor and was selected after a rigorous proposal and examination process by the Marine...
  
   (MTV) is the newest and most advanced vest in Marine inventories, with better protection than previous vests and a quick-release.
• The Scalable Plate Carrier
  Scalable Plate Carrier
  The Scalable Plate Carrier is a plate carrier used by the U.S. Marine Corps as an alternative to the heavier Modular Tactical Vest.- Design :...
  
   was developed for troops in Afghanistan
  Afghanistan
  Afghanistan , officially the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is a landlocked country located in the centre of Asia, forming South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East. With a population of about 29 million, it has an area of , making it the 42nd most populous and 41st largest nation in the world...
  
   due to concerns of excessive weight limiting mobility, especially in mountainous terrain.
• The Outer Tactical Vest
  Interceptor body armor
  Interceptor Body Armor is the United States Army's primary bulletproof vest. The Interceptor design replaced the older fragmentation protective Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops body armor system, introduced in the early 1980s...
  
   (OTV) is being replaced by the MTV for most forward units.
• The Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops
  Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops
  Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops, sometimes abbreviated to PASGT, was a combat helmet and ballistic vest used by the American military from the mid 1980s until 2005, when the system was succeeded by the Lightweight Helmet, Modular Integrated Communications Helmet, and Interceptor body...
  
   (PASGT) vest remains in some limited use in training and non-deployable units.
• The Full Spectrum Battle Equipment
  Full Spectrum Battle Equipment Amphibious Assault Vest
  The Amphibious Assault Vest, Quick-Release, or FSBE AAV QR, is a light-weight assault vest system that incorporates both protection and cargo retention. Protection includes soft armor coupled with hard ballistic inserts. Cargo retention capabilities include various pouches and pockets attached via...
  
   kit includes a quick-release ballistic vest, integrated breathing
  Scuba set
  A scuba set is an independent breathing set that provides a scuba diver with the breathing gas necessary to breathe underwater during scuba diving. It is much used for sport diving and some sorts of work diving....
  
   and flotation
  Personal flotation device
  A personal flotation device is a device designed to assist a wearer, either conscious or unconscious, to keep afloat.Devices designed and approved by authorities for use by...
  
   devices, as well as load bearing equipment.
• The PRU-70
  PRU-70
  The PRU-70/P22P-18 is an Armored Survival Vest that is intended for aircrews. It will be fielded in 3 sizes and was designed in house by Navair's Human Systems Division...
  
   for aviator
  Aviator
  An aviator is a person who flies an aircraft. The first recorded use of the term was in 1887, as a variation of 'aviation', from the Latin avis , coined in 1863 by G. de la Landelle in Aviation Ou Navigation Aérienne...
  
  s and aircrew
  Aircrew
  Aircrew are the personnel who operate an aircraft while in flight. The composition of the crew depends on the type of aircraft as well as the purpose of the flight.-Civilian:*Aviator** Pilot-in-command** First officer** Second officer** Third officer...
  
   combines body armor, survival vest, and flotation device.

Combat helmet

Combat helmet

A combat helmet or battle helmet is a type of personal armor designed specifically to protect the head during combat. Helmets are among the oldest forms of personal protective equipment and are known to have been worn by the Akkadians/Sumerians in the 23rd century BC, Mycenaean Greeks since 17th...

s

• The Lightweight Helmet
  Lightweight Helmet
  The Lightweight Helmet is the U.S. Marine Corps replacement for the PASGT combat helmet. As it is nearly identical to untrained eyes in shape to the PASGT, it is still called the Fritz helmet or K-pot...
  
   (LWH) can be used with the older sling suspension or a newer pad suspension to fit the helmet to the head, as well as a nape
  Nape
  The nape is the back of the neck. In technical anatomical/medical terminology, the nape is referred to by the word nucha, which also gives the adjective corresponding to "nape" in English, "nuchal"....
  
   protection system to add ballistic protection to the rear of the head. It is due to be replaced by the Enhanced Combat Helmet
  Enhanced Combat Helmet (United States)
  The Enhanced Combat Helmet is a United States Marine Corps program to replace the combat helmets of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marines using thermoplastics instead of the ballistic fibers used on the current generation combat helmets.- Design :...
  
  .
• The Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops (PASGT) helmet has mostly been replaced by the LWH, but can still be found in some units.
• The MICH TC-2000 Combat Helmet
  MICH TC-2000 Combat Helmet
  The Modular Integrated Communications Helmet , is a combat helmet used by the United States Army. It was developed by the United States Army Soldier Systems Center to be the next generation of protective combat helmets for use by the U.S. Army...
  
   is issued to some specialized units.
• The Enhanced Combat Vehicle Crewman’s Helmet (ECVCH) allows the crew of M1 Abrams
  M1 Abrams
  The M1 Abrams is a third-generation main battle tank produced in the United States. It is named after General Creighton Abrams, former Army Chief of Staff and Commander of US military forces in Vietnam from 1968 to 1972. The M1 is a well armed, heavily armored, and highly mobile tank designed for...
  
  , AAV
  Amphibious Assault Vehicle
  The Assault Amphibious Vehicle —official designation AAV-7A1 is a fully tracked amphibious landing vehicle manufactured by U.S. Combat Systems .The AAV-7A1 is the current amphibious troop transport of the United States Marine Corps...
  
  , EFV
  Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle
  The Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle is an amphibious assault vehicle that was being developed for the U.S. Marine Corps. It is launched at sea, from an amphibious assault ship beyond the horizon, able to transport a full Marine rifle squad to shore...
  
  , and LAV vehicles to communicate with less restriction on mobility and situational awareness without reducing ballistic protection.
• Most pilots and aircrew will wear a flight helmet
  Fighter pilot helmet
  A flight helmet, sometimes nicknamed a "bone dome", is a special type of helmet primarily worn by military aircrew.A flight helmet can provide:...
  
   for protection from aviation-related hazards (such as an integrated oxygen mask), but typically offers little ballistic protection.
• The Pith helmet
  Pith helmet
  The pith helmet is a lightweight cloth-covered helmet made of cork or pith...
  
   is worn not for ballistic protection, but to identify weapons range
  Shooting range
  A shooting range or firing range is a specialized facility designed for firearms practice. Each facility is typically overseen by one or more supervisory personnel, called variously a range master or "RSO – Range Safety Officer" in the United States or a range conducting officer or "RCO" in the UK...
  
   coaches and other range personnel.

Other armor

• Small Arms Protective Inserts (SAPI) are used with the MTV and OTV to provide protection beyond what the vest itself offers. SAPI are also available in side plates to protect the torso.
• Evaporative
  Evaporation
  Evaporation is a type of vaporization of a liquid that occurs only on the surface of a liquid. The other type of vaporization is boiling, which, instead, occurs on the entire mass of the liquid....
  
   Cooling Vest
  Cooling vest
  A cooling vest or ice vest or "precool vest" is a piece of equipment worn to cool a person down. Cooling vests are used by many athletes, industry workers, doctors, working dogs, people with Multiple Sclerosis or Hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, and by military pilots and tank crews.Olympic...
  
  s found limited distribution in desert theaters in 2005 and 2006
• The OTV can be adapted with the Armor Protective Enhancement System (APES) that adds ballistic protection to the shoulder, armpit, and upper arm.
• The Advanced Bomb Suit
  Advanced Bomb Suit
  The Advanced Bomb Suit is a full body ensemble that protects the Explosive Ordnance Disposal soldier from threats associated with IEDs, including those related to fragmentation, blast overpressure, impact, heat, and flame. The ABS uses new material technology and design to improve protection,...
  
   is a type of bombsuit
  Bombsuit
  A bomb suit or a blast suit is a heavy suit of body armor designed to withstand the pressure released from a bomb and any projectiles the bomb may produce. It is usually worn by trained personnel attempting bomb disposal...
  
   used by Explosive Ordnance Disposal
  Bomb disposal
  Bomb disposal is the process by which hazardous explosive devices are rendered safe. Bomb disposal is an all encompassing term to describe the separate, but interrelated functions in the following fields:*Military:...
  
  .

Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense

• The M40 Field Protective Mask
  M40 Field Protective Mask
  The M40 Field Protective Mask is one of various gas masks used by the military of the United States and its allies to protect from field concentrations of chemical and biological agents, along with radiological fallout particles...
  
   is the standard gas mask
  Gas mask
  A gas mask is a mask put on over the face to protect the wearer from inhaling airborne pollutants and toxic gases. The mask forms a sealed cover over the nose and mouth, but may also cover the eyes and other vulnerable soft tissues of the face. Some gas masks are also respirators, though the word...
  
  , but is being replaced by the M50 Joint Service General Purpose Mask
  M50 Joint Service General Purpose Mask
  The M50 Joint Service General Purpose Mask is the United States armed forces gas mask, which began service in December 2009, replacing the M40 Field Protective Mask.-Description:...
  
  .
• Mission Oriented Protective Posture
  MOPP
  MOPP is a military term used to describe protective gear to be used in a toxic environment, i.e., during a chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear strike:* Protective mask — Commonly referred to as a gas mask or pro mask...
  
   (MOPP) is a NBC suit
  NBC suit
  An NBC suit is a type of military personal protective equipment designed to provide protection against direct contact with and contamination by radioactive, biological or chemical substances, and provides protection from contamination with radioactive materials and some types of radiation,...
  
   with overalls, a hooded jacket, gloves, and overboots to protect against direct contact with contaminents.
• The Mk I Nerve Agent Antidote Kit
  Mark I NAAK
  The Mark I NAAK, or MARK I Kit, is United States military nomenclature for the "Nerve Agent Antidote Kit". It is a dual-chamber autoinjector: Two anti-nerve agent drugs — atropine sulfate and pralidoxime chloride — each in injectable form, constitute the kit. The kits are only effective against the...
  
   (NAAK) consists of a pair of autoinjector
  Autoinjector
  An autoinjector is a medical device designed to deliver a single dose of a particular drug....
  
  s containing atropine sulfate
  Atropine
  Atropine is a naturally occurring tropane alkaloid extracted from deadly nightshade , Jimson weed , mandrake and other plants of the family Solanaceae. It is a secondary metabolite of these plants and serves as a drug with a wide variety of effects...
  
   and pralidoxime chloride
  Pralidoxime
  Pralidoxime or 2-PAM, usually as the chloride or methiodide salts, belongs to a family of compounds called oximes that bind to organophosphate-inactivated acetylcholinesterase. It is used to combat poisoning by organophosphates or acetylcholinesterase inhibitors , in conjunction with atropine and ...
  
   for first aid against nerve agent
  Nerve agent
  Nerve agents are a class of phosphorus-containing organic chemicals that disrupt the mechanism by which nerves transfer messages to organs...
  
  s, and are due to be replaced by the single ATNAA
  ATNAA
  An ATNAA is any of a variety of autoinjectors in use with the US Armed Forces. An autoinjector is a medical device designed to deliver a single dose of a particular drug....
  
  .

Load-bearing & packs

• The Improved Load Bearing Equipment (ILBE) is the latest load bearing equipment and pack to be issued to Marines. It is the first to be made in MARPAT
  MARPAT
  MARPAT is a digital camouflage pattern in use with the United States Marine Corps, introduced with the Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform , which replaced the Camouflage Utility Uniform. The pattern is formed by a number of small rectangular pixels of color...
  
   (MARine PATtern), and greatly increases durability, comfort, and decreases complexity. It comes in a standard, Recon
  United States Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance
  The Force Reconnaissance Companies , are one of the United States Marine Corps's special operations "capable" forces that provide essential elements of military intelligence to the command element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force ; supporting the landing or joint task force commanders, and...
  
   (which adds two side pouches), and corpsman
  United States Navy Hospital Corpsman
  A Hospital Corpsman is an enlisted medical specialist for the United States Navy who serves with Navy and United States Marine Corps units. The Hospital Corpsman works in a wide variety of capacities and locations, including shore establishments such as naval hospitals and clinics, aboard ships,...
  
   versions. The ILBE load equipment provides an improved load bearing vest and the associated pouches to carry ammunition, grenades, radios, and other items.
  • The USMC Pack is being developed to replace the ILBE. Because the ILBE was designed as a modified version of a commercial Arc'teryx
    Arc'teryx
    Arc'teryx is an outdoor clothing and sporting goods company founded in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, in 1989. The name and logo of Arc'teryx refer to the Archaeopteryx, the earliest known bird...
    
     product, it doesn't integrate well with body armor, which can cause stress and injury. After the initial announcement of replacement in 2009, The Marine Corps finalized design requirements after testing and released a solicitation for prototypes in 2011, which resemble the Army's improved version of MOLLE.
• MOdular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment
  Mölle
  Mölle is a locality situated in Höganäs Municipality, Skåne County, Sweden with 725 inhabitants in 2005.It is best known for its scenic harbour and its location adjacent to the Kullaberg Nature Reserve...
  
   (MOLLE) was phased out of inventories in favor of ILBE due to durability problems.
• All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment
  All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment
  The All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment, or ALICE system, was adopted as United States Army Standard A on 17 January 1973 to replace the M-1956 Load-Carrying Equipment [LCE] and M-1967 Modernized Load-Carrying Equipment [MLCE]. ALICE gear is still in some limited use in the US...
  
   (ALICE) mixed with some Individual Integrated Fighting System
  Individual Integrated Fighting System
  The Individual Integrated Fighting System or IIFS was introduced in 1988 as a possible replacement for the All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment in United States armed forces service. The IIFS replaces the age-old concept of a shoulder-harness suspenders and individual equipment...
  
   (IIFE) items remain in some limited use in training and non-deployable units.
• The standard canvas or nylon seabag, a militarized duffel bag
  Duffel bag
  A duffel bag is a large cylindrical bag made of cloth with a drawstring closure at the top....
  
  , has been issued to servicemembers of all branches since before World War II
  World War II
  World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
  
  . However, the increase in equipment issued to an individual Marine has made containing and transporting it all in a standard seabag difficult (a phenomenon nicknamed seabag drag), in addition to a tactical load-bearing pack. The Deployment Bag holds the same cubic footage, but rugged wheels allow it to roll much like a ruggedized version of commercial rolling luggage
  Luggage
  Baggage is any number of bags, cases and containers which hold a traveller's articles during transit.Luggage is more or less the same concept as "baggage", but is normally used in relation to the personal luggage of a specific person or persons Baggage is any number of bags, cases and containers...
  
  .
• A rubberized waterproofing bag liner has been provided to Marines for decades as a way to protect the contents of a tactical pack from water. Newer versions (known as the "stuff sack") have a purge valve to expel excess air to compress the sack.
• The Gunslinger pack allows a Scout Sniper
  Scout Sniper
  Scout Sniper is a secondary MOS designator of U.S. Marine Corps infantrymen and reconnaissance Marines that have successfully graduated from a USMC Scout Sniper School. Scout Snipers provide close reconnaissance and surveillance to the infantry battalion...
  
   to conceal and protect his sniper rifle
  Sniper rifle
  In military and law enforcement terminology, a sniper rifle is a precision-rifle used to ensure more accurate placement of bullets at longer ranges than other small arms. A typical sniper rifle is built for optimal levels of accuracy, fitted with a telescopic sight and chambered for a military...
  
   within the pack while on the move.

Clothing

Cold weather clothing

• All Purpose Environmental Clothing System (APECS): Rather than issue the 3rd generation Extended Cold Weather Clothing System
  Extended Cold Weather Clothing System
  The Extended Cold Weather Clothing System is a protective clothing system developed in the 1980s by the United States Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, Natick, Massachusetts...
  
   (ECWCS), the Marine Corps has begun issuing the APECS, consisting of a MARPAT
  MARPAT
  MARPAT is a digital camouflage pattern in use with the United States Marine Corps, introduced with the Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform , which replaced the Camouflage Utility Uniform. The pattern is formed by a number of small rectangular pixels of color...
  
   parka and pant. The APECS is structurally almost identical to ECWCS shell jacket and trousers.
• The Lightweight Exposure Suit offers similar capabilities.
• The Combat Desert Jacket is a lighter suit to protect Marines from the harsh desert climate.
• The Extreme Cold Weather Parka & Trouser offer heavy protection from cold weather, and include overboots.
• The Snow Camouflage Uniform is a winter MARPAT
  MARPAT
  MARPAT is a digital camouflage pattern in use with the United States Marine Corps, introduced with the Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform , which replaced the Camouflage Utility Uniform. The pattern is formed by a number of small rectangular pixels of color...
  
   overgarment to camouflage
  Camouflage
  Camouflage is a method of concealment that allows an otherwise visible animal, military vehicle, or other object to remain unnoticed, by blending with its environment. Examples include a leopard's spotted coat, the battledress of a modern soldier and a leaf-mimic butterfly...
  
   Marines and their equipment in snow.
• Polypropylene
  Polypropylene
  Polypropylene , also known as polypropene, is a thermoplastic polymer used in a wide variety of applications including packaging, textiles , stationery, plastic parts and reusable containers of various types, laboratory equipment, loudspeakers, automotive components, and polymer banknotes...
  
   undershirt and underdrawer, nicknamed "polypro" and officially known as "silkweight", is a mock turtleneck
  Polo neck
  A polo neck or turtle neck or skivvy is a garment—usually a sweater—with a close-fitting, round, and high collar that folds over and covers the neck...
  
   and trousers designed to be worn next to skin, and designed by Polartec. Flame-resistant versions are available.
• The Grid Fleece
  Polar fleece
  Polar fleece, usually referred to simply as "fleece," is a soft napped insulating synthetic fabric made from Polyethylene terephthalate or other synthetic fibers. One of the first forms was Polar Fleece created in 1979 by Malden Mills, now Polartec LLC., a new, light and strong pile fabric meant...
  
   Midweight underwear includes a pullover and pants (in green and coyote brown). While the pullover is commonly issued as a warming layer in most locations, the pants are traditionally not issued unless the recipient is expected to face a cold weather environment. Flame-resistant versions are available.
• A cap made from microfleece
  Polar fleece
  Polar fleece, usually referred to simply as "fleece," is a soft napped insulating synthetic fabric made from Polyethylene terephthalate or other synthetic fibers. One of the first forms was Polar Fleece created in 1979 by Malden Mills, now Polartec LLC., a new, light and strong pile fabric meant...
  
   is given to Marines in most environments.
• Cold weather sock
  Sock
  A sock is an item of clothing worn on the feet. The foot is among the heaviest producers of sweat in the body, as it is able to produce over of perspiration per day. Socks help to absorb this sweat and draw it to areas where air can evaporate the perspiration. In cold environments, socks decrease...
  
  s and scarf
  Scarf
  A scarf is a piece of fabric worn around the neck, or near the head or around the waist for warmth, cleanliness, fashion or for religious reasons. They can come in a variety of different colours.-History:...
  
  s are also offered to Marines going to cold weather environments.
• Mountain/Cold Weather Boots, later renamed Rugged All Terrain (RAT) Boots, and Extreme Cold Vapor Barrier Boots
  Bunny boots
  Bunny Boots is the widely-used nickname for the Extreme Cold Vapor Barrier Boots used by the United States armed forces. The liner-less bulbous boots retain warmth by sandwiching up to one inch of wool and felt insulation between two layers of rubber and are typically worn with one heavy wool sock...
  
   are given. The overboots are insulated with an air barrier, and include a valve to allow paratrooper
  Paratrooper
  Paratroopers are soldiers trained in parachuting and generally operate as part of an airborne force.Paratroopers are used for tactical advantage as they can be inserted into the battlefield from the air, thereby allowing them to be positioned in areas not accessible by land...
  
  s to jump with them, while the RAT Boot is reinforced with chemically impregnated leather for durability and stability.

Other

• The Flame Resistant Organizational Gear
  Flame Resistant Organizational Gear
  Flame Resistant Organizational Gear or FROG is United States Marine Corps clothing designed to reduce the number of injuries resulting from fire and flash , due to the increased use of improvised explosive devices in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.-Features:The FROG system consists of a...
  
   (FROG) is a fire and heat protection system designed to help protect Marines from burn injuries associated with roadside bombs
  Improvised explosive device
  An improvised explosive device , also known as a roadside bomb, is a homemade bomb constructed and deployed in ways other than in conventional military action...
  
  .
• Units with firefighting capabilities (Marine Wing Support Squadrons and Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron
  Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron
  A Headquarters & Headquarters Squadron, abbreviated as H&HS or HQHQSQDN, is the headquarters entity for a United States Marine Corps aviation facility.-Organization:...
  
  s ) are issued firefighting suits and self-contained breathing apparatus.
• Coveralls or jumpsuit
  Jumpsuit
  Jumpsuit originally referred to the utilitarian one-piece garments used by parachuters/skydivers, but has come to be used as a common term for any one-piece garment with sleeves and legs.-Use:...
  
  s are issued to vehicle crew, mechanics, and other Marines whose duties may render other uniforms unserviceable. They can have varying degrees of fire protection, and come in green and coyote brown to match the seasonal change of utilities from woodland to desert camouflage. Pilots and aircrew typically wear flight suit
  Flight suit
  A flight suit is a full body garment, worn while flying aircraft such as military airplanes, gliders and helicopters. These suits are generally made to keep the wearer warm, as well as being practical , and durable . Its appearance is usually similar to a jumpsuit. A military flight suit may also...
  
  s and flight jacket
  Flight jacket
  The flight jacket, or bomber jacket is a garment originally created for pilots, which eventually became part of popular culture and apparel. In the First World War most airplanes did not have an enclosed cockpit, which necessitated a garment that could keep pilots sufficiently warm...
  
  s, as well as g-suit
  G-suit
  A G-suit, or the more accurately named anti-G suit, is worn by aviators and astronauts who are subject to high levels of acceleration force . It is designed to prevent a black-out and G-LOC caused by the blood pooling in the lower part of the body when under acceleration, thus depriving the...
  
  , pressure suit
  Pressure suit
  A pressure suit is a protective suit worn by high-altitude pilots who may fly at altitudes where the air pressure is too low for an unprotected person to survive, even breathing pure oxygen at positive pressure. Such suits may be either full-pressure or partial-pressure...
  
  s, and life vests
  Personal flotation device
  A personal flotation device is a device designed to assist a wearer, either conscious or unconscious, to keep afloat.Devices designed and approved by authorities for use by...
  
   as needed.
• Various gloves are offered by the Corps. Often, most Marines receive simply a woolen liner and leather shell, however, those who require more specialized gloves are issued them (cold weather, hazmat
  Dangerous goods
  Dangerous goods are solids, liquids, or gases that can harm people, other living organisms, property, or the environment. They are often subject to chemical regulations. "HazMat teams" are personnel specially trained to handle dangerous goods...
  
  , Mechanix brand, etc.).
• The Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform
  Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform
  The Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform is the current battledress uniform of the United States Marine Corps. It is also worn by Navy personnel assigned to Marine Corps units . Field testing began in 2001, the uniform debuted in 2002, and the changeover was completed in October 2004...
  
   has built-in slots for knee and elbow pads, but many Marines prefer to purchase their own pads. The Commandant has authorized units to purchase knee and elbow pads for uniformity.
• The Corps is also contracting to receive protective silk underwear
  Undergarment
  Undergarments or underwear are clothes worn under other clothes, often next to the skin. They keep outer garments from being soiled by bodily secretions and discharges, shape the body, and provide support for parts of it. In cold weather, long underwear is sometimes worn to provide additional...
  
   in use by the British Army
  British Army
  The British Army is the land warfare branch of Her Majesty's Armed Forces in the United Kingdom. It came into being with the unification of the Kingdom of England and Scotland into the Kingdom of Great Britain in 1707. The new British Army incorporated Regiments that had already existed in England...
  
  . While not designed for ballistic protection, the so-called "blast boxers" do provide wound mitigation to groin injuries.

Other

• The Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) is used for immediate battlefield treatment. It includes several bandage
  Bandage
  A bandage is a piece of material used either to support a medical device such as a dressing or splint, or on its own to provide support to the body; they can also be used to restrict a part of the body. During heavy bleeding or following a poisonous bite it is important to slow the flow of blood,...
  
  s, a tourniquet
  Tourniquet
  An emergency tourniquet is a tightly tied band applied around a body part sometimes used in an attempt to stop severe traumatic bleeding. Tourniquets are also used during venipuncture and other medical procedures. Severe bleeding means the loss of more than 1,000 ml of blood. This flow of blood...
  
  , burn ointment
  Topical
  In medicine, a topical medication is applied to body surfaces such as the skin or mucous membranes such as the vagina, anus, throat, eyes and ears.Many topical medications are epicutaneous, meaning that they are applied directly to the skin...
  
  , some water purification tablets, and QuikClot Antihemorrhagic/hemostatic agent. The Army
  United States Army
  The United States Army is the main branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for land-based military operations. It is the largest and oldest established branch of the U.S. military, and is one of seven U.S. uniformed services...
  
   utilizes an IFAK with different contents, but a similar purpose. In 2010, the QuikClot powder was replaced by QuikClot Combat Gauze, a kaolin
  Kaolinite
  Kaolinite is a clay mineral, part of the group of industrial minerals, with the chemical composition Al2Si2O54. It is a layered silicate mineral, with one tetrahedral sheet linked through oxygen atoms to one octahedral sheet of alumina octahedra...
  
  -infused gauze
  Gauze
  Gauze is a thin, translucent fabric with a loose open weave.-Uses and types:Gauze was originally made of silk and was used for clothing. It is now used for many different things, including gauze sponges for medical purposes. When used as a medical dressing, gauze is generally made of cotton...
  
   bandage.
• Individual Water Purification System allows Marines to purify water
  Water purification
  Water purification is the process of removing undesirable chemicals, materials, and biological contaminants from contaminated water. The goal is to produce water fit for a specific purpose...
  
   to potable
  Drinking water
  Drinking water or potable water is water pure enough to be consumed or used with low risk of immediate or long term harm. In most developed countries, the water supplied to households, commerce and industry is all of drinking water standard, even though only a very small proportion is actually...
  
   standards. These can be compatible with the standard issue hydration pack
  Hydration pack
  A hydration pack is a type of hydration system built as a backpack or waist pack containing a reservoir or "bladder" commonly made of rubber or flexible plastic. The reservoir contains a capped mouth for filling with liquid and a hose that allows the wearer to drink hands-free...
  
  , similar to CamelBak
  CamelBak
  CamelBak Products, LLC is an outdoors equipment company known primarily for its hydration products, such as hydration packs and water bottles. CamelBak is also a supplier of hydration packs, protective gear, and other products to the U.S. military and law enforcement agencies around the world.The...
  
   brand packs. Of course, plastic 1-quart canteen
  Canteen (bottle)
  A canteen is a drinking water bottle designed to be used by hikers, campers, soldiers and workers in the field. It is usually fitted with a shoulder strap or means for fastening it to a belt, and may be covered with a cloth bag and padding to protect the bottle and insulate the contents...
  
  s are issued as well, with a metal canteen cup and stand.
• Several types of eye protection
  Eye protection
  Eye protection is protective gear for the eyes, which comes in many types depending upon the threat that is to be reduced. The threats can be particles, light, wind blast, heat, sea spray or some type of ball or puck used in sports...
  
   are offered, including ballistic goggles
  Goggles
  Goggles or safety glasses are forms of protective eyewear that usually enclose or protect the area surrounding the eye in order to prevent particulates, water or chemicals from striking the eyes. They are used in chemistry laboratories and in woodworking. They are often used in snow sports as well,...
  
   and sunglasses
  Sunglasses
  Sunglasses or sun glasses are a form of protective eyewear designed primarily to prevent bright sunlight and high-energy visible light from damaging or discomforting the eyes. They can sometimes also function as a visual aid, as variously termed spectacles or glasses exist, featuring lenses that...
  
   made by Eye Safety Systems, Inc. and Wiley X, and are available with prescription lens inserts.
• Ballistic Hearing Protection is a two-sided earplug
  Earplug
  An earplug is a device that is meant to be inserted in the ear canal to protect the wearer's ears from loud noises or the intrusion of water, foreign bodies, dust or excessive wind.-Protection from water:...
  
   that offers Marines protection from audio damage.
• The entrenching tool
  Entrenching tool
  An entrenching tool or E-tool is a collapsible spade used by military forces for a variety of military purposes. Survivalists, freedivers, campers, hikers and other outdoors groups have found it to be indispensable in field use...
  
   or "E-tool" is standard issue to all Marines to prepare defensive fighting position
  Defensive fighting position
  A defensive fighting position is a type of earthwork constructed in a military context, generally large enough to accommodate at least one person.- Terminology :...
  
  s.
• All Marines usually receive a foam sleeping mat, a Modular Sleep System
  Modular Sleep System
  The Modular Sleep System is a modular sleeping bag used by the United States armed forces.The MSS consists of a camouflaged, waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex bivy cover, a lightweight patrol sleeping bag, and an intermediate cold weather sleeping bag. Compression sacks are included to store and...
  
   (with a light, heavy, and waterproof sleeping bag
  Sleeping bag
  A sleeping bag is a protective "bag" for a person to sleep in, essentially a blanket that can be closed with a zipper or similar means, and functions as a bed in situations where a bed is unavailable . Its primary purpose is to provide warmth and thermal insulation...
  
  s to allow the user to adapt to ambient conditions and a compression sack to hold them), and a tarpaulin
  Tarpaulin
  A tarpaulin, colloquially tarp, is a large sheet of strong, flexible, water-resistant or waterproof material, often cloth such as canvas or polyester coated with urethane, or made of plastics such as polyethylene. In some places such as Australia, and in military slang, a tarp may be known as a...
  
   or waterproof poncho and liner
  Poncho liner
  A poncho liner is a piece of field gear originating in the United States military intended to provide warmth in mild temperatures used as an expedient sleeping bag when attached to the standard issue poncho by means of integral lengths of material which are looped through the poncho's eyelets.-...
  
   that doubles as an expedient blanket.
• The Vietnam War
  Vietnam War
  The Vietnam War was a Cold War-era military conflict that occurred in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia from 1 November 1955 to the fall of Saigon on 30 April 1975. This war followed the First Indochina War and was fought between North Vietnam, supported by its communist allies, and the government of...
  
  -era olive drab plastic angle-head flashlight
  Flashlight
  A flashlight is a hand-held electric-powered light source. Usually the light source is a small incandescent lightbulb or light-emitting diode...
  
   (running on D-cell batteries
  D battery
  A D battery is a size of dry cell. A D cell is cylindrical with electrical contacts at each end; the positive end having a nub or bump...
  
   with colored lens filters) purchased at recruit training was deemed unsuitable for combat in 2007, and a replacement from Streamlight
  Streamlight
  Streamlight is an ISO 9001:2000 registered company located in Eagleville, Pennsylvania that manufactures flashlights powered by various rechargeable and disposable batteries. Streamlight flashlights are often used by public safety professionals such as police officers and fire fighters, and they...
  
   was fielded in 2009. The Sidewinder HandHeld FlashLight (HHFL) is lightweight with a head adjustable over 185° of movement, light-emitting diode
  Light-emitting diode
  A light-emitting diode is a semiconductor light source. LEDs are used as indicator lamps in many devices and are increasingly used for other lighting...
  
  s providing five intensities each of white, red, blue, and infrared
  Infrared
  Infrared light is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength longer than that of visible light, measured from the nominal edge of visible red light at 0.74 micrometres , and extending conventionally to 300 µm...
  
   light (including a strobe function
  Strobe light
  A strobe light or stroboscopic lamp, commonly called a strobe, is a device used to produce regular flashes of light. It is one of a number of devices that can be used as a stroboscope...
  
  ), helmet mount, and runs on AA batteries
  AA battery
  An AA battery is a standard size of battery. Batteries of this size are the most commonly used type of in portable electronic devices. An AA battery is composed of a single electrochemical cell...
  
  . Aside from providing illumination, this smaller and lighter flashlight can be used for signalling and detecting blood residue
  Blood residue
  In forensic science, blood residue – wet and dry remnants of blood, as well the discoloration of surfaces on which blood has been shed – can help investigators identify weapons, reconstruct a criminal action, and link suspects to the crime...
  
  .
• No standard tactical light
  Tactical light
  A tactical light is a flashlight used in conjunction with a firearm to aid low light target identification, allowing the marksman to simultaneously aim and illuminate the target. Tactical lights can be handheld or mounted to the weapon with the light beam parallel to the bore...
  
   exists, however, many Marines choose to purchase their own.
• The Martial Arts Kit (MAK) allows units to train Marines in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program
  Marine Corps Martial Arts Program
  The Marine Corps Martial Arts Program is a combat system developed by the United States Marine Corps to combine existing and new hand-to-hand and close quarters combat techniques with morale and team-building functions and instruction in what the Marine Corps calls the "Warrior Ethos". The...
  
  . It contains all of the pads, gloves, props, and other safety aids that allow an instructor to successfully teach the program.
• The Mechanical Breacher's Kit (MBK) allows an assault breacher to breach a door
  Door breaching
  Door breaching is a process used by military, police, or emergency services to force open closed and/or locked doors. A wide range of methods are available, one or more of which may be used in any given situation...
  
   or other obstacle.
• Various mountain-warfare items have been fielded, including snowshoe
  Snowshoe
  A snowshoe is footwear for walking over the snow. Snowshoes work by distributing the weight of the person over a larger area so that the person's foot does not sink completely into the snow, a quality called "flotation"....
  
  s, ski
  Ski
  A ski is a long, flat device worn on the foot, usually attached through a boot, designed to help the wearer slide smoothly over snow. Originally intended as an aid to travel in snowy regions, they are now mainly used for recreational and sporting purposes...
  
  s, climbing kits, and Portable/camping stove
  Portable stove
  A portable stove is a cooking stove specially designed to be portable and lightweight, as for camping or picnicking, or for use in remote locations where an easily transportable means of cooking or heating is needed...
  
  s.
• Numerous parachute
  Parachute
  A parachute is a device used to slow the motion of an object through an atmosphere by creating drag, or in the case of ram-air parachutes, aerodynamic lift. Parachutes are usually made out of light, strong cloth, originally silk, now most commonly nylon...
  
  s are used, such as the static line
  Static line
  A static line is a fixed cord attached to a large, stable object. It is used for safety in construction andto open parachutes automatically for paratroopers and novice parachutists.-Use in parachuting:...
  
   T-10
  T-10 parachute
  The T-10 Parachute is a series of static line-deployed parachutes used by the United States armed forces for combat mass-assault airborne operations and training...
  
   and T-11
  T-11 parachute
  The Non-Maneuverable Canopy Personnel Parachute System is the newest personnel parachute system to be adopted by the United States armed forces. The T-11 replaces the T-10, introduced in 1955...
  
  , Military Free Fall Parachute System
  Military Free Fall Parachute System
  The Military Free Fall Advanced Ram Air Parachute System provides a multi-mission, high-altitude parachute delivery system that allows personnel to exit at altitudes between 3,500 feet and 35,000 feet. The parachute, which replaces the current MC-4 parachute, supports a total jumper weight of 450...
  
  , and various aviation-specific models used for aircrew survival.

Historical items

The following items are obsolete and no longer issued:

Armor

• Flak jacket
  Flak jacket
  thumb|300px|The two components of an obsolete British military flak vest. On the left, the nylon vest. On the right, the several layers of [[ballistic nylon]] that provide the actual protection...
  
  
• Doron Plate
  Doron Plate
  Doron Plate is a strong fiberglass-based laminate that was first used by the United States military as personal body armor for infantry in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. The plates were approximately 1/8 inch thick and cut into five inch squares then inserted into pockets on a nylon vest that...
  
  
• M1 Helmet
  M1 Helmet
  The M1 helmet is a combat helmet that was used by the American military from World War II until it was succeeded by the PASGT helmet beginning in 1985. For over forty years, the M1 was standard issue for the U.S...
  
  
• M1917 Helmet
  Brodie helmet
  The Brodie helmet, called Helmet, steel, Mark I helmet in Britain and the M1917 Helmet in the U.S., was a steel combat helmet designed and patented in 1915 by the Briton John Leopold Brodie...
  
   "Brodie" helmet

Load-bearing equipment

• M-1956 Load-Carrying Equipment
  M-1956 Load-Carrying Equipment
  The M-1956 Load-Carrying Equipment [LCE], also known as the Individual Load-Carrying Equipment [ILCE], replaced the M-1910 olive drab cotton canvas and web individual equipment which had remained in service, with various modifications since that year...
  
  
• Modernized Load-Carrying Equipment
  Modernized Load-Carrying Equipment
  Modernized Load-Carrying Equipment, also known as M-1967 Modernized Load-Carrying Equipment or MLCE, was introduced into United States Army service in 1968 during the Vietnam War...
  
  
• Various types of haversack
  Haversack
  A haversack is a bag, usually carried by a single shoulder strap. Although similar to a backpack the single shoulder strap differentiates this type from other backpacks. There are exceptions to this general rule.-Origins:...
  
  s were issued in World War I
  World War I
  World War I , which was predominantly called the World War or the Great War from its occurrence until 1939, and the First World War or World War I thereafter, was a major war centred in Europe that began on 28 July 1914 and lasted until 11 November 1918...
  
  .

Other

• M-1965 field jacket
• M-1951 field jacket
  M-1951 field jacket
  The M-1951 field jacket was a US Army four pocket jacket made of 9-ounce wind resistant water repellent treated cotton sateen cloth in Olive Green Shade 107 . In November 1956 it was redesignated as the M-1951 field coat....
  
  
• M-1941 Field Jacket
  M-1941 Field Jacket
  Olive Drab Cotton Field Jacket is a field jacket used by US Army soldiers, most famously during the beginning of World War II...
  
  
• M42 jacket
  M42 jacket
  The M42 jump uniform was the uniform used by U.S. paratroopers during the earlier and middle part of World War II. This includes D-Day and the breakout from Normandy.- M42 Jump Uniform description :...
  
  
• P-38 can opener
  P-38 can opener
  The P-38, developed in 1942, is a small can opener issued in the canned field rations of the United States Armed Forces from World War II to the 1980s. Originally designed for and distributed in the K-ration, it was later included in the C-ration.- Design :...
  
  
• mess kit
  Mess kit
  A mess kit is a collection of silverware and cookware used during camping and backpacking, as well as extended military campaigns.-Civilian camping mess kit:...
  
  

External links

• Program Manager, Infantry Combat Equipment website
• Marine Enhancement Program, a joint entity with the Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies and Operations, Marine Corps Combat Development Command
  Marine Corps Combat Development Command
  Marine Corps Combat Development Command, located in at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, has the mission of developing Marine Corps warfighting abilities to enable the Corps to field combat-ready forces...
  
  , and Marine Corps Systems Command
  Marine Corps Systems Command
  Marine Corps Systems Command is located at MCB Quantico.-Mission:Serve as the Commandant's principal agent for acquisition and sustainment of systems and equipment used by the operating forces to accomplish their warfighting mission....
  
  
• USMC Individual Combat Clothing and Equipment Total Asset Visibility
• Website for United States Naval Research Laboratory
  United States Naval Research Laboratory
  The United States Naval Research Laboratory is the corporate research laboratory for the United States Navy and the United States Marine Corps and conducts a program of scientific research and development. NRL opened in 1923 at the instigation of Thomas Edison...
  
  
• Website for Natick Labs