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The Defense Supply Center (DSC) in Philadelphia, PA issued a pair of firm-fixed-price indefinite-quantity contracts for the Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment (MOLLE) System. Proposals were solicited on behalf of the U.S. Army via the Internet, and the DSC received seven responses.

MOLLE is a modular quick-release backpack with removable compartments and components, plus a fighting load vest that can accept removable pockets for the Rifleman, Pistol, Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) Gunner, and Grenadier configurations. Its modularity allows individuals to tailor their load and configuration to meet mission needs.

The MOLLE system itself has been tailored since its debut, in response to feedback from the field.

To give one example: in Afghanistan, the troops had noted that the zippers on the packs were bursting open when the bags were stuffed full, and that the straps weren’t long enough to be easily adjusted over body armor. The MOLLE now has locking zippers and longer shoulder straps.

Specialty Defense Systems in Dunmore, PA won a maximum $40.9 million contract for MOLLE materials that will be performed in Dunmore, PA; Jefferson City, TN; and McKee, KY. Performance completion date is April 28, 2006 (SP0100-04-D-4183-0009). Small business qualifier Michael Bianco of New Bedford, MA won a maximum $36.1 firm fixed price indefinite quantity contract with a performance completion date of Aug. 31, 2006 (SP0100-04-D-4184-0004).

See also this “Modular MOLLE” article from the Natick Soldier Center, which explains the MOLLE system’s components and the thinking behind them in more detail.