Physiological considerations for modern military rifle carriage
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12922/jshp.v11i1.188Keywords:
lethality, Metabolism, military physiologyAbstract
Understanding the physiological demands on Soldiers when carrying various weapon systems is critical for safe and successful training, mission planning, and real world operations. This report introduces foundational characteristics of both currently used and Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) systems. Research gaps regarding rifle carriage are identified in order to enable future analysis on the effects of orientation, modifications, and operational stressors on physiological costs. The six authorized carrying positions for rifles vary based on tactical as well as physiological advantages and disadvantages. Modern weapon standard loads vary based on mission type, purpose, and intent. Published literature specifically assessing the physiological costs of rifle carriage is limited and few researchers have explored the specific costs of rifle carriage or the effects of different carrying positions, postures, and effort requirements. Relevant military physiology studies have generally incorporated a weapon system when testing one or more clothing and individual equipment ensembles to simulate the demands imposed on the dismounted Warfighter. Unfortunately, the physiological impact of the weapon itself cannot be isolated without an unarmed control comparison. There is a lack of research exploring the metabolic cost of different rifle carrying positions, including varying types of weapon systems, and the effects that each weapon system and carrying position may impose on the Soldier. Overall, further investigation into the physiological effects of carrying modern weapon systems in various positions during training and operations is needed.
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