The military shrank the MRE for a future fight. Now it's deploying the new food rations with troops on the ground.
The Marines are deploying with a new combat ration that replaces three items with one lighter package for the opening days of combat.
Marines are deploying a new combat ration called the Close Combat Assault Ration (C-CAR), which replaces three traditional Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) packets with one lighter daily ration for mobile operations. This reduction in weight allows troops to carry more gear and reduces the need for early resupply missions during the first 72 hours of a conflict.
The Defense Logistics Agency developed the C-CAR for use during the initial stages of war, when lighter, less bulky food alternatives are essential. Unlike traditional MREs, C-CARs are designed for troops on the move and come in squeeze pouches that can be eaten without heating or utensils. Currently, the C-CAR is deployed with frontline Marine units and is being used alongside traditional MREs while the Corps gathers feedback to improve future ration development.
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