The improved version of TenCate Defender™ M will be the first Flame Resistant fabric used by the military to provide this level of protection. Nick Pence, Military Market Manager with TenCate, explains: “Moreover, in developing this highly durable version of TenCate Defender™ M, TenCate did not have to compromise on the weight, comfort, or Flame Resistant performance of the fabric”.

The US Marine Corp has approved the new version of TenCate Defender™ M for its FROG uniform. “We are pleased the US Marine Corps approved this fabric, and we look forward to the Marines in theater being issued an uniform that is made with a highly durable material”, says Nick Pence.

Optimal protection

TenCate originally developed TenCate Defender™ M in response to an urgent call in 2006 from the U.S. military to the U.S. textile industry to create a fabric to better protect troops from burn injuries that were caused by the enemies’ use of Improvised Explosive Devices, (IEDs) in Iraq and Afghanistan.

A year later, in 2007, the military chose TenCate Defender™ M – from over two dozen fabrics that were submitted for testing – as the best overall performer in terms of flame resistance, durability, comfort and costs, and it has reaffirmed that decision several times since then.

Exceeding expectations

TenCate Defender™ M has proved highly successful. Nick Pence comments; “Troops report that uniforms with it are saving lives and reducing burn injuries, and an Army spokesman said that TenCate Defender™ M has ’consistently exceeded our expectation’.”

The development of TenCate of a highly durable version of TenCate Defender™ M reflects the company’s commitment to delivering the greatest possible protection to Marines, Soldiers, airman, and sailors.

Continuous improvements

The recent improvement in durability of TenCate Defender™ M is just the latest improvement that TenCate has made to uniforms for US troops. For instance, after creating TenCate Defender™ M, TenCate added a mosquito repellant that is particularly important for the troops in Iraq. Additionally, the new Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) camouflage pattern is also printed on the TenCate Defender™ M for Army troops deployed to Afghanistan.