The Pouch Attachment Ladder System, or PALS, was first developed to complement a new backpack system by the United States Army Natick Soldier Research Development and Engineering Center. Army units first used the Modular Lightweight Individual Load-Carrying Equipment System (MOLLE) in October 2001. PALS was made to attach needed components like ammunition pouches to the pack, but soon found many other uses both in and out of the military.
The PALS is made of horizontal rows of one inch Mil-W-43688 Type III nylon webbing. The webbing is sewn to the main equipment and the attachment and straps are interwoven into the webbing. The straps snap into place, creating a secure fit that is easily detached for immediate use.
As uses for the attachment system expanded, it began appearing on vests, holsters, magazine and radio pouches, knife sheathes, and other small items a soldier might need in the field. Many items have been made commercially available, allowing soldiers to customize their kit before a mission. It is also used on the American Outer Tactical Vest, Inceptor body armor, USMC Improved Load Bearing Equipment backpack, and the Modular Tactical Vest. The system is also used by other armies; the British Army uses it on the Osprey Royal Armour.
Outside the military, the attachment system has been found useful with various products. These include hydration bladders, commercial backpacks, and even vehicle seat covers. The flexible and secure system has the potential to be used just about anywhere. Like the acronym it creates, the PAL system is a friend to troops, as well as active and adventurous citizens. Hikers and campers have taken advantage of military developments in backpacks, including this attachment system. It guarantees they will not lose any of their essential equipment or supplies while on the move.
Military research will continue find better ways for troops to take needed gear into the field. However, the PALS equipment system is almost guaranteed to be apart of future backpack systems, thanks to its security and easy use for soldiers as well as outdoor enthusiasts.
