An overview of military textiles

Developments in the weapons and surveillance technologies are prompting innovations in individual protection equipments and battle-field related systems and structures. Besides conventional requirements such as durability to prolonged exposure, heavy wear and protection from external environment, the protection is sought from ballistic projectiles, fire, CBN (chemical, biological and nuclear) weapons and surveillance and detection systems. It is a challenge to the "system" designer to satisfy the conflicting requirements within the constraints of physiological requirements, logistics, technological limitations and the cost. This article gives an overview of the requirements, design considerations, developments and innovations related to the textile usage in the military applications. The examples and citations are mostly in the context of the United States Army.