Fighting in the jungle requires special training, because the environment itself poses as many dangers to soldiers as to the enemy. To prepare for operations in this terrain, the U.S. Army established a training center based on the Hawaiian 25th Infantry Division, where military personnel received special training. Let's look at an example of 72 hours of autonomous activity with a backpack on your back. In addition to weight and reliability requirements, in the jungle, the rapid drying of all clothing and gear is also important.
The personal weapon is the standard M4 carbine. In muddy and watery conditions in the jungle, the requirements for the maintenance of weapons are particularly high. In this sense, AR platforms require quite high levels of proper maintenance, although modern models are more reliable than we usually think. For example, dirt is transferred well in the transport location thanks to a secure curtain. We also note that for the 72-hour bushwalk, weapon attachments were removed.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
The backpack is frame-structured. The old backpack has the metal frame of the ALICE kit, the new backpack has the plastic frame of the MOLLE 2, as does the unloading system. ALICE has been decommissioned, but in some ways it is more suitable for the jungle, since it was built based on the experience of Vietnam.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
There are three large pockets on the outside of the backpack for quick access items. The first one has a poncho tent raincoat inside. It can be placed on top, it can completely cover one person and a large backpack from the rain. It is also used to build shelters or perches on the ground.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
The second bag contained a survival kit in a plastic box. The kit includes a wire saw, a metal sponge (which can be lit with batteries), various velvet, flint, waterproof matches, water purification tablets, fishing line and hooks, a small spare multi-tool, fabric tape and foil emergency kit blanket.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
The third bag of the waterproof bag contains additional freeze-dried food, a pot and a small camp gas stove. All waterproof bags are individually attached to the backpack by means of a parachute strap.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
The main compartment at the top of the backpack has a helmet for quick access. It is used not only for combat collision prevention, but also for various abseiling and other dangerous work.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
The rest of the items in the main compartment are packed in two waterproof bags in case one loses its seal. Everything that needs to be kept dry is stored there. Moreover, most of them are also individually packaged in separate bags.
The first bag contained a set of dry clothes, protected triple.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
In addition to socks and a change of clothes, there is a pair of light shoes. This suit is suitable for wearing at the campsite at night so that you don't wear wet clothes too often, or if possible, dry them. But if necessary, you can be on duty or for urgent action.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
The other waterproof bag has a main poncho and a warm lining. They are used overnight.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
In the tactical belt, there is a red and white headlight in front, GPS navigator, an orange fabric signal board VS-17 and a cosmetic bag.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
Cosmetics have multiple functions at the same time. In addition to camouflage, it protects against insects and the sun, as it is difficult to wear balaclavas, scarves and gloves in this climate. Apply to all exposed parts of the body, not just the face.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
In the tactical belt, there are also 6 magazines, and inside the machine there is also 1 magazine.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
Two standard plastic bottles, at least one with a cap.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
A personal first aid kit and an additional "small" survival kit are also included in the package. The suit is like a backpack and comes in a plastic box.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
The first aid kit contains a standard IFAK kit, IFAK English full name Individual First Aid Kit, which means personal first aid kit.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
The pocket of the jacket contained spare cosmetics, a marker, a map (in a waterproof bag), a rosary pedometer (beads on the parachute line), two compasses (for military and sports) and a dagger.
A set of weapons and equipment for American soldiers to move through the jungle
All equipment is "tied" to a backpack or tactical belt as much as possible, since it is almost impossible to find lost equipment in dense vegetation. It is dangerous to have nothing in difficult conditions.