objective force warrior essays

objective force warrior essays What is Objective Force Warrior? OFW (Objective Force Warrior) is an attempt to integrate all of a soldiers capabilities into one system of systems. It must be backward compatible with the militarys existing technologies. This system incorporates advanced individual weapons, ultra-lightweight, low bulk, and multifunctional materials, within a full Spectrum Protective Combat Ensemble. It will have advanced sensors and communications. It must maintain a high degree of mobility while sustaining itself for up to 72 hours. The OFW system, scheduled for fielding in 2008, completely integrates these electronic capabilities. Degay explained that soldiers will never again have to wear cumbersome night-vision, infrared goggles, or heavy laser training components on their helmets (Degay, Interview). These and other features such as thermal sensors, day- night video cameras, and chemical and biological sensors are fully integrated within the helmet. It also includes a visor that can act as a "heads-up display monitor"(Degay, Interview) equivalent to two 17-inch computer monitors in front of the soldier's eyes. Being able to view a heads-up display, instead of pulling out map and flashlights, allow you to get a sense of where you are without having to cease your movement. This can be very beneficial. At first, it may be very strenuous on the eyes to be constantly looking at two tiny computer monitors while on the battlefield. However, after using some of the prototype systems, you realize that it is not very cumbersome, because you are not constantly staring at the information on the screens. In the final product, monitors can be turned off when not in use or the heads up display can be placed in the up position, away from the eye completely. The uniform system is a multi-function garment working from the inside out. It incorporates physiological sensors that allow the soldier, the chain of comman...