Military Introduces Lightweight Meal Ration for Outdoor Operations
New Close Combat Assault Ration Enhances Warfighter Capability
The United States Army has introduced a new ration system designed to improve the performance of warfighters in contested operational environments. Known as the Close Combat Assault Ration (CCAR), this innovative ration system is set to revolutionise the way soldiers are fed in the field.
The CCAR is a significant improvement over the previous First Strike Ration. It boasts a 39% reduction in volume and a 17% reduction in weight, making it smaller, less bulky, and lighter for soldiers to carry. This reduction in size and weight means that soldiers will be able to carry more essential supplies such as ammunition, water, and medical supplies.
The CCAR can now be carried in a three-day footprint but provides five days' worth of nutrition. This means that soldiers will be able to sustain themselves for longer periods without the need for frequent resupply. In fact, the CCAR can sustain semi-independent small units for five days with resupply, making it a promising option for short-term missions.
The CCAR was created to support small units during operations in austere environments with little to no resupply for 7 to 10 days. In such environments, maintaining a negative energy balance, or the inability to consume enough calories to meet metabolic demands, can be a threat to warfighter performance. However, studies have shown that the CCAR did not adversely affect physical performance.
Erin Gaffney-Stomberg, combat feeding division chief at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, emphasised the importance of providing optimal nutrition to warfighters when and where they need it. James McClung, the military nutrition division chief, added that the ration's nutrition balancing is essential because it maintains warfighter readiness.
The CCAR is a promising option for short-term missions, as it minimises logistical burden and maximises energy intake while maintaining warfighter performance. It can sustain small units for five days with resupply and can be a sole source of nutrition for up to 10 days.
The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support has the new lightweight, nutrient-dense individual field ration available. The CCAR is set to free up more space for ammunition, water, and medical supplies, ensuring that soldiers are well-equipped to face the challenges of the battlefield.
