In operational settings, military service members consume rations that support and sustain warfighter performance in potentially very austere environments. Rations must be shelf stable for 1.5-3 years, withstand environmental conditions, be transportable through a variety of methods, resistant to contamination and safe to consume, contain optimal nutrition, and taste good. The Combat Feeding Division, part of the Army’s Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) executes the joint Combat Feeding Research & Engineering Program to provide all services with solutions to constantly evolving field feeding challenges. This presentation will discuss current fielded operational rations as well as active areas of research & engineering to meet future challenges.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain the unique nutrition requirements for warfighters.
- Describe the types of operational ration platforms currently available.
- Understand ongoing and future areas of innovation in feeding our nation’s warfighters.
