In an exciting blend of innovation and sustainability, the U.S. Army is investigating the potential of hemp and jute as eco-friendly materials for their camouflage sniper uniforms.
The Army expressed interest in these natural fibers as possible candidates for the Improved Ghillie System (IGS).
This cutting-edge system is designed to meet the unique concealment requirements of the sniper community, ensuring they remain hidden from the enemy while blending seamlessly into their surroundings.
A Whopping 400,000 Yards
The Army’s Product Manager Soldier Clothing and Individual Equipment division is on the hunt for a staggering 400,000 yards of naturally colored jute or hemp yarn.
They’ve specified that the ideal material should be “approximately a 48 lb. Jute Count, 3 ply.”
Hemp has proven to be a remarkable fabric in recent research, with its intricate three-dimensional fiber structure offering impressive benefits.
It can absorb moisture at triple the rate of cotton and has antibacterial properties that can eliminate bacteria within an hour of contact.
Hemp fabric dries quickly, offers more than 95% protection against ultraviolet rays, and is non-fading up to 370° C (698 F°). Remarkably, it doesn’t burn at temperatures of 1000° (1,832 F°) or below.
This isn’t the first time a military organization has tapped into the power of hemp. China’s People’s Liberation Army has been using the versatile fiber for uniforms and socks since 2010.
Hemp Requirements
In accordance with the U.S. Army’s supplier guidelines, finished hemp yarn can either be imported or spun domestically.
Jute fabric, on the other hand, must be spun within the U.S., but raw materials can still be imported.
Crucially, the material must not pose any health risks to soldiers and should be safe for extended periods of direct skin contact.
Also, it should not add significant weight to the uniforms, ensuring the snipers maintain their agility and ease of movement.
It is important to note that the Army’s request for information (RFI) is purely for gathering information and planning purposes.
It does not constitute a formal bidding process and “will not directly lead to any contract awards.”
