Monday 18 May 2009

Blackhawk!: ITS just what the doctor ordered

The MoD have just begun testing 'smart' Warrior Wear supplied by US manufacturer Blackhawk!. The High Performance Fighting Uniforms come complete with an Integrated Tourniquet System (ITS) at key areas on the arms and legs.

Although Britain's frontline soldiers already carry a first aid kit containing at least one tourniquet, lives are still at risk due to the length of time it takes to get a tourniquet applied.

The eight tourniquets built-in to Blackhawk!'s combat gear can be activated immediately and thereby save precious seconds in an emergency, particularly when the injured soldier is trapped inside a vehicle. The speed with which a tourniquet can be applied will also free-up the medics to deal with other life-threatening injuries.

The kit is already in use with US military, police and private security agencies. Hopefully it will soon be saving British lives in Afghanistan.

Scotsman: Tourniquet uniforms to give frontline first aid a boost
YouTube: BLACKHAWK I.T.S. Pants from U.S. Cavalry
Officer.com: BlackHawk's Integrated Tourniquet System Clothing