USMC Assault Pack - MARPAT Woodland Digital
The Marines needed a backpack that had a larger load bearing capability, yet had a smaller volume, and could carry 60mm and 81mm mortar rounds external to the pack. It also needed to be more durable, more comfortable to wear and a lot less complex than the MOLLE system. While MOLLE was great for survival situations, it could prove cumbersome in combat. For example, it could not carry external mortar rounds, slowing down access to ammunition. The ILBE places its emphasis on being better suited to combat situations, integrating with the Body Armor system better, and allowing for a greater range of weaponry to be carried with it.
