Personal Load Carrying Equipment (PLCE) is the current tactical webbing system of the British Army. It consists of a belt, yoke (shoulder harness) and a number of pouches. Associated with PLCE webbing is a series of other similar load carrying equipment and rucksacks (See ‘Components’).
The purpose of PLCE is to hold everything a soldier needs to operate for 48 hours. This includes ammunition/weapon ancillaries, entrenching tool, bayonet, food and water (and a means to cook), NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) protection and communications equipment. Soldiers will also often carry other items such as waterproof clothing and spare socks.
The system was also adopted by the Danish Army in M84 camouflage and the Irish Army in Olive Green. The Irish Army reserve currently use the 90 Pattern Olive Green PLCE. The Permanent Defence Force now use the ILPCS combat vest in Irish DPM. Many other countries use similar systems.
Read more about Personal Load Carrying Equipment: History, Configuration, Construction, Components, The Future, Assault Vest
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