Technology Improves Collective Protection Shelters

GULFPORT, MS, UNITED STATES

12.06.2018

Story by Andrea D Thomas 

Joint Force Headquarters - Mississippi National Guard

New technology will enable Mississippi Air National Guardsmen a faster start in completing their mission of guarding against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats in deployed environments. The Gulfport-based 209th Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron is replacing its previous collective protection small shelter system with an updated system. This type of shelter allows war fighters to work in an area where CBRN agents are a threat without having to wear a traditional protective suit.
Leaders of the 209th SOCES first heard about the updated technology about five years ago. Recently, as the squadron prepared for modernization, members saw an opportunity to replace the older equipment with a single skin system type tent. A single skin tent is one that has the chemical/biological liner incorporated into the tent fabric.
One benefit to the shift is an easier and faster setup. Both the previous and newer versions must be secured with an embedded anchor system, with the number of tie downs needed depends on the type of terrain. However, with the newer system the amount of tie downs is reduced by 50 percent whether being used on soil or a hard impermeable surface.
“The newer Airmen in the unit are all benefiting from this latest technology in equipment and those who’ve been part of this mission for a while are glad to see the change,” said Senior Master Sgt. Randy Woodall, 209th SOCES Chief Enlisted Manager.
Maj. Alex Lochern is among the long time members of the 209th SOCES. He says so far Airmen who’ve been training with the tents are highly impressed by the ease of installment.
“For the original system, a highly skilled six person team would need a minimum of six hours to set up,” said Lochern. “The new tent with the same team could be up and running in a fraction of that time. Today’s Air Force is about being faster, lighter, and nimble without sacrificing effectiveness. That is especially important. ”
The new system has increased air conditioning and heating capability so people can be more comfortable while performing their duties.
“These are spaces where people work, sleep, mission plan, conduct operations, as well as rest and recuperate,” said Woodall. “It’s also used for storing high value items that need protection in a chemical warfare challenged environment.”
Woodall says the improved installation method means Airmen can sooner shift their attention to other responsibilities during their deployment.

• Date Taken: 12.06.2018
• Date Posted: 12.06.2018 17:10
• Story ID: 302342
• Location: GULFPORT, MS, US