Global War on Terrorism (2000s)

At the beginning of the 21st century, each branch of the U.S. military developed increasingly specialized uniforms, body armor, and combat equipment suited to modern warfare. The Army Combat Uniform (ACU), introduced in 2005, replaced the Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) and Desert Camouflage Uniform (DCU).

Uniform

The ACU featured a digitally patterned Universal Camouflage Pattern (UCP) designed for use in multiple environments.

Flight gloves made from aramid fibers and leather provided protection against heat, cuts, and abrasions while maintaining dexterity.

Headgear

The Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH) evolved from the earlier PASGT helmet. It reduced weight while improving ballistic protection and mobility.

The ACH used a padded suspension system and four-point chinstrap and could accommodate communications equipment and night vision devices.

Protective eyewear included ballistic goggles and glasses designed to shield soldiers from fragmentation, dust, ultraviolet light, and laser exposure.

Equipment

The Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment (MOLLE) system was introduced in the late 1990s and became widespread after 2003. The modular system included a load bearing vest, ammunition pouches, medical pouches, patrol pack, and large rucksack attached to an external frame. Its modular attachment system allowed soldiers to customize equipment placement based on mission requirements.

The uniform and equipment displayed here includes official-issue components and privately purchased tactical gear used by soldiers of the 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment in Iraq from 2006 to 2007.

The CamelBak hydration system supplemented traditional canteens by allowing soldiers to drink through a hose while moving.

Body Armor

The Interceptor Body Armor (IBA), introduced in the early 2000s, provided significantly improved ballistic protection over earlier fragmentation vests. The system incorporated ceramic Enhanced Small Arms Protective inserts (ESAPI) plates placed in front, rear, and side carriers to defeat high-velocity rifle rounds. Additional components included ballistic collars, groin protection, and side armor.

Footwear

The Army Combat Boot (ACB) was lightweight, waterproof, breathable, and designed for a variety of climates and terrain.

The privately purchased Bates boots displayed here were worn in Iraq between 2006 and 2007.

Weapons

The M4 carbine, adopted in the 1990s, became the standard weapon for many U.S. Army units during the Global War on Terrorism. It was capable of semi-automatic and three-round burst fire.

The Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight (ACOG) is a 4x32 power, prismatic telescope. It was first adopted by the US Army in 1995.

The AN/PEQ-2 Infrared Target Pointer/Illuminator/Aiming Light (ITPIAL) is a laser sight for use on rifles and machineguns.