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Protective garments offer broad protection combined with low thermal burden.
Tennessee Apparel Corp. (TAC), a manufacturer of military garments, has been identified as the only qualified source for the procurement of chemical and biological protective garments under the Uniform Integrated Protection Ensemble Increment 1 (UIPE I1) effort. TAC has received the production option on a $129MM firm-fixed-price contract issued in February 2012.
The chemical and biological protective ensemble is a layered clothing system that consists of a lightweight combat uniform worn over a CB protective undergarment. W. L. Gore & Associates (Gore), a world leader in the development of high-performance protective fabrics, is the key material supplier on the contract. Gore’s stretch GORE® CHEMPAK® selectively permeable fabric is used in the protective undergarment layer of the clothing system.
The clothing system provides enhanced individual protective capabilities through superior protection from warfare agents after wear, and after exposure to petroleum, oils, lubricants (POL) and other environmental contaminants. The innovative undergarment design integrates easily with current combat gear and personal protective equipment.
The breathable performance of GORE CHEMPAK selectively permeable fabric reduces thermal burden by allowing perspiration vapor (sweat) to escape. The stretch construction also allows for a comfortable, next-to-skin fit, which further reduces heat stress by eliminating the thermal insulating layer that surrounds the body and by increasing heat loss through convection.
The chemical and biological protective clothing system is suitable for wear while performing combat operations, whether on land or at sea, in any climate, with minimal impact on combat effectiveness. Versatile design allows for easy integration with current and developmental clothing and equipment including load-bearing equipment, handwear, footwear and protective masks.