MOLLE - Evolution and Criticism

Evolution and Criticism

The MOLLE system was introduced in 1997. However it did not see widespread issue until after the September 11, 2001 attacks and was used by U.S. troops serving in Afghanistan and, later, Iraq. Early criticisms of the MOLLE system emerged, particularly from the Army. Most of these criticisms have centered on the sustainment-load pack and frame, due to the external plastic frame being too fragile and subject to breaking in the field (since mitigated), that the zippers have a tendency to burst when stuffed full, and that the pack's straps lack sufficient length to easily accommodate body armor. Further, the first generation of this system utilized a "ball & socket" interface between the frame and rucksack belt (which in itself formed the waistbelt of the MOLLE vest). This interface method led to numerous lower back injuries due to the ball (mounted on the frame) missing the socket interface on the waistbelt and impacting the user's body. Subsequent redesign of the SDS MOLLE led to the deletion of this "feature" and thus the vest (FLC) and ruck/frame were separate non-integral items.

The United States Marine Corps wanted a larger load-bearing capability, a smaller overall volume, the ability to carry 60 mm and 81 mm mortar rounds external to the pack, and a simpler overall layout and organization of the system's parts. As of 2004, the Marine Corps has adopted a new off-the-shelf pack design by Arc'teryx and has begun introducing it into the Fleet as the ILBE, or "Improved Load Bearing Equipment".