Versatile, Expandable, Strategic, and Tactical Equipment Carrier

In response to the SOCOM MANPACK Innovative Vest Research solicitation topic, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop novel Versatile, Expandable, Strategic and Tactical Equipment Carrier (VESTEC) technology to be integrated into the MOLLE/SPEARS/BALCS and ELCS military vests. Phase II will address both short-term and long-term SOCOM needs, delivering multiple sets of prototypes. For the short term, POC will enhance SOF tactical vests by developing a high-strength, nonmetallic connector body. Based on this development, five prototype vests are to be constructed--two BALCS and three ELCS--all integrating the MegaWave BWA. For the long term, POC will incorporate SOF users’ input, in redesigning and optimizing the final version of a tactical vest based on the VESTEC system. The final VESTEC version will include a new locking mechanism, an environmental seal, improved electrical performance with higher bandwidth and lower insertion force, and new wire integrated textile cable. The final stage in the VESTEC development will be extensive lab as well as field testing as necessary to meet required MIL-STDs. At the conclusion of the project, POC will deliver two final vests incorporating VESTEC technology.