MRE Lessons Learned
(6) Individual Rations:
- 83% of Soldiers reported that MREs generally met their nutritional needs while on operations.
- 84% of Soldiers stripped down their MREs in order to carry only the essential components.
- Soldiers averaged 8 day missions on stripped down MREs.
- Due to the high altitude of these operations (8000-9000 feet), soldiers asked for meals or supplements that contain more calories.
- Soldiers asked for more finger foods that they can eat on the move.
- Soldiers stated that the flameless ration heater does not work well at high altitudes.
- Soldiers stated that they need a way to heat water for hot drinks and that they need their heat tabs back.
- 52% of the Soldiers stated that they would like an individual stove for heating drinks and meal items.
- 57% of the Soldiers stated that they would like an Assault Ration that is lighter and smaller than the MRE.