Air Force Updates Industry on Equipment Needs

  • Published
  • By Brad Jessmer
  • Air Force Uniform Office
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  Members of the Air Force Uniform Office (AFUO) attended the Advanced Planning Brief for Industry (APBI) in Springfield, Va., May 19-20, to present and challenge members of industry with current and future design needs for uniforms and equipment.

"The overarching goal for us is to make sure the needs of our Airmen are met," said Lt. Col. Darien Hammett, Commander, 648th Aeronautical Systems Wing, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.  "The APBI allows us to continually vector industry in a direction that keeps our most current needs at the forefront."

The APBI is a networking opportunity between industry and the Government that allows different manufacturers to see the latest concepts and spark competition for future production. Speakers were present from all military branches to discuss possible innovations and upgrades, with a goal to keep the industrial base informed on the direction of clothing, protective equipment, individual equipment programs, future requirements, and business opportunities.

"Every year we present our uniform and equipment needs to industry for ideas and solutions that will meet the needs of our Airmen," said Colonel Hammett.  "After the APBI we continue working with industry to receive and weigh their ideas during our continual improvement effort."

According to AFUO Chief, Richard Keefer, the AFUO creates the concepts and designs that are presented to industry, to which companies are invited to improve upon and respond with their prototypes.

A mass briefing was held on the first day of the APBI to describe requirements for each service branch. More specific and detailed equipment briefings were held on day two. This more precise format allowed industry and military representatives to attend briefings they were most interested in.

Air Force uniform items presented at the APBI included fire resistant equipment, extreme cold weather gear, the stain resistant boot concept, and the next generation Airman Battle Uniform. Conversely, some uniform and equipment concepts are shared across the services.

For questions regarding Air Force uniform development, send your correspondence to; 648AESS.clothing@wpafb.af.mil.