The Army Combat Shirt has only been an issue item for about a year but much of its success can be attributed to PEO-Soldiers decision to field the garment immediately and improve it over time. In fact, although the basic concept has stayed constant, the design has been in a perpetual state of change. At the recent SOFEX at Ft Bragg, NC we got a chance to take a look at the latest version (v5.3) of the ACS at Massifs booth. While this version has not yet been approved for procurement, it features design refinements specified by PEO-Soldier. Many Soldiers will be happy to hear that noticeably absent was the Army of One logo.
Manufactured from Massifs proprietary Blaze, Breeze, and Helium fabrics, the ACS is completely FR, even incorporating new flame resistant resin zippers. The Blaze fabric is a four way stretch and used for the sleeves and under arm panels. Designed with comfort under body armor in mind, the ACS is constructed with flat seams and features raglan sleeves. The body is formed from Breeze fabric and the modesty panel designed to cover the breast area is made from Helium fabric. A high mock-T collar prevents chaffing caused by the IOTVs high collar.
While garments in other color schemes (including Multicam) are currently on the drawing board, development of military variants including the Airman Battle Shirt and a khaki version for the Navy.
Currently, the ACS can only be ordered by members of the United States Army. To order contact Massif Mountain Gear Company.
[Photo of New ACS from Massif Mountain gear]
