NEXT GENERATION OF SOF LIFE PRESERVER UNIT

Hear what Soldier Systems Daily has to say: Eric Graves of SSD reviewed Mustang Survival's new, low profile inflatable life preserver with a programmable inflator, inspired by a special forces customer request.

Since Graves’ first look, they’ve brought in long-time partner CM Hammar® to develop a new programmable inflator, which allows the user to configure it to trigger inflation by depth, time submerged in water, or a combination of both.

They are also working together to identify and validate a next generation electronic inflator technology for the SOF LPU.

However, the SOF LPU will be offered in three configurations, which fit the operational profiles of most LPU users. The MD1500 utilizes a Programmable automatic inflator, MD1501 utilizes HIT Hydrostatic inflator, and MD1502 utilizes Hammar’s® new manual inflator.

This video was shot during a demonstration in a Norfolk pool in November. When discussing history of the project, Mustang Survival reps explained an SOF customer had initially approached them, asking to integrate a new life preserver into an armor vest.

Not only can it be attached via PALS webbing, but they’ve also created a standalone harness so the LPU can be worn alone. That’s great for over the water Helo passengers, parachutists during admin jumps, and small boat passengers.

Additionally, SOLAS retro-reflective tape or GLINT can be attached to the inflation chamber via hook and loop to support those TTPs which use those markings.

Because of the SOF LPU’s low profile, the wearer will barely know it’s there. It’s not going to impede movement or situational awareness. In the event of inflation, the chamber is out front, above any equipment, such as ammunition, first aid kit, or radios. That way, the wearer can still access that gear.

Eric Graves

Both in the field and as a civilian, Eric Graves has spent an exuberant amount of time researching and understanding the landscape of the defense industry. When he started Soldier Systems Daily in 2008, his expertise coupled with real-world experience instantly positioned him as an authoritative, experienced, and trustworthy leader in everything tactical. There is no better way to shed light on the importance of quality operational products, technology, and services than in an unbiased forum such as Soldier Systems Daily.