Operating in the confined space of a cockpit, combat vehicle, or ship; carrying out missions in remote, hostile and austere environments; and repairing aircraft on a flightline, all impact a Warfighters ability to control and access critical items. Aviators need to quickly find, use, and store necessities while maintaining control of the aircraft, without impacting their situational awareness. Special Tactics Operators face weight and space constraints which are magnified in Survival, Evade, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) situations. Aircraft mechanics must remain vigilant to ensure parts and tools are accounted for, and all Warfighters need to pack personal essentials for deployments. Managing supplies and tools is a continual challenge and can result in Foreign Object Debris (FOD) and dropped objects if not effectively controlled. The effect of FOD on aircraft maintenance is significant and directly impacts Air Force and Joint Force sustainability and readiness. FOD losses are significant; injuries, fatalities, and estimated annual costs of $90M to US Military, $4B to the Global Aerospace Industry. The Lay-n-Go DEFENDER is a utility bag available in multiple configurations, textiles, and sizes. The patented design enables the bag to completely open, lay flat; form a raised edge to contain contents, and be quickly cinched closed with a drawstring. The DEFENDER provides organization and storage; functions as a containment mat, supplies a clean and dry work surface where all items can be seen and accessed, and transitions to a completely sealed bag instantly. Features include: washable / durable textiles, interior storage pockets, a cord lock, an external drawstring pocket with a Velcro® patch for unit ID, and a convenient carrying handle. The DEFENDER can be customized with theater specific textiles, RFID for tracking tools, parts and other assets, enhanced tactical fabric treatments, MOLLE, unique compartments, colors, and sizes.
