MOLLE
M.O.L.L.E., pronounced like Molly, the feminine name, is an acronym for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. It is used to define the current generation of load bearing equipment and rucksacks utilized by the United States Armed Forces. The systems modularity is derived from the use of PALs webbing, rows of heavy-duty nylon stitched onto the vest as to allow for attachment of various MOLLE-compatible pouches and accessories. This method of attachment has become somewhat of a standard for all quality modular military gear, replacing the click and stick system used in the earliest modular vest systems (which is still in use with most Western police departments). It is produced for the United States Government under contract by Speciality Defense Systems.
Components of the MOLLE System
- MOLLE Generation 1 Modular Load Bearing Vest (Vest body with loops for modular belt)
- MOLLE Generation 2 Modular Load Bearing Vest, Fighting Load Carrier (FLC) (Modular belt permanantly incorporated into vest)
- MOLLE Rucksack and Rucksack Frame (PALs webbing stitched at places to allow for additional pouches)
- Pouches of various utility that can be attached whereever PALs webbing exists.
MOLLE
The term MOLLE is used not only to describe the specific system manufactured by Speciality Defense Systems, but is used interchangeably to describe all load bearing systems and subsystems that utilize MOLLE-like PALs webbing for modular pouch attachment (though MOLLE is proprietary to Natick labs, most use MOLLE and PALs interchangeably). Derivatives based upon the MOLLE attachment method (such as the Tactical Tailor MALICE clip system) have also been developed. Any system which utilizes modular attachment methods and is useable with US general issue MOLLE components is often considered "MOLLE-compatible" or is called a "MOLLE" system.
See also
ALICE All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying System
IBA INTERCEPTOR Body Armor
IIFS Individual Integrated Fighting System