Tech Talk

November 2005

Want Fresh Water? Army Has an Answer

Edited by Robert H. Williams

Lightweight purifier units that can provide a continuous stream of water by a single soldier in less than 45 minutes have been ordered by the Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command. Officials say the units produce potable water from seawater, brackish and muddy water, and water contaminated by nuclear, biological and chemical agents.

The systems, which were developed by MECO of New Orleans, can be transported in light tactical trucks and helicopters and are air droppable from a C-130 transport.