The Modular Tactical System (MTS) system has officially been released for commercial use by military computer supplier Black Diamond Advanced Technology. Components of the MTS system are integrated into different parts of the soldier’s vest equipment so mobility isn’t compromised. The lightweight, rugged and wearable computing and communications kit is designed to make the transition from computer operation to direct combat engagement in seconds — which, barring a Red Dawn-like invasion of US soil, may not be that attractive to the common public. Hunting? Perhaps. Fly fishing in distant rivers? Could come in handy. A rafting trip down the Orinoco? Probably pretty money. Regardless, the commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) system by BDA Tech has been combat-proven in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and is optimized for command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Read more after the Jump.

Continue reading about Black Diamond Advanced Technology’s MTS plus more detailed shots of the tactical vest after the Jump…

Worn as a vest, the rear plate carrier holds the MTS system’s processing platform, peripheral controller and power manager. The front of the vest holds a flip down 6.5-inch, sunlight-viewable, night vision goggle-compatible Universal Tactical Display (UTD) and a GPS unit is located on the shoulder. Cables are routed through a cummerbund that integrates body armor and I/O ports while the computer itself has a 1.6 GHz Atom processor, 2 GB RAM, 128 GB SSD, and an SD card slot. Depending on the configuration required for various missions, the system weighs between 1.8 and 3.5 pounds and is designed to work with batteries carried by the soldier, as well as vehicle power. The MTS is adaptable to targeting, combat medics, explosive ordnance disposal, military intelligence and company command applications. BDA Tech asserts there was no compromise in ballistic protection and that the system eliminates any need to stop and put down gear while powering up or repacking equipment. Price still TBD.