By Julian Nettlefold,
The Evolution of Camouflage – Protecting The Infantryman
British Defense Firm BCB International has been exhibiting a new kind of camouflage for infantry in close combat which was featured at the Close Combat Systems exhibit earlier this year. Its called the MK8 Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC) in service with a number of special forces throughout the world.
BCB manufacturers a complete range of clothing and protection systems for the infantryman from camouflage cream thru knee and groin protection systems to camouflage.
BCB International’s MSC system is designed to counter the most advanced surveillance technologies used in contemporary warfare. Unlike traditional camouflage, which primarily focuses on IR and visible light, BCB’s solution operates across multiple spectra, including visual, infrared, and thermal imaging.
BCB’s MS camouflage (MSC) leverages advanced materials and technologies it has developed with a university over several years, to disrupt, deny, and deceive detection across the electromagnetic spectrum. By incorporating materials that absorb, reflect, or scatter radiation in various wavelengths, the camouflage effectively conceals personnel, large and very hot platforms like artillery, field camps, foxholes, and vehicles from detection by sensors, including drones equipped with infrared and thermal imaging systems.
On the factory tour Andy showed the Editor the camouflage manufacturing process which is akin to the Gieves & Hawkes of camouflage.
“What are the advantages of your camouflage systems?” The Editor asked.
“We buy in the basic, coloured fabric and manufacture it to the customer’s requirements. We can shred it, crimp it or make a specialist sniper Ghillie suit, we can even make an IR resistant camouflaged umbrella.”
“In addition, armoured vehicles are prime targets for enemy drones seeking to disrupt Ukrainian operations. BCB’s Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC) can be quickly and easily fitted with reversible desert or green systems. MSC will be shown on the Hobson Industries gunship at this year’s DVD.” Andy Howell said.
“Is your MSC in use in Ukraine?”
“The ongoing conflict in Ukraine highlights how critical effective camouflage techniques are, against relentless 24/7 aerial surveillance. Drones, now the ubiquitous tools for reconnaissance and targeting, pose a significant threat to ground forces. In this cat-and-mouse environment, BCB’s MSC offers a critical advantage, allowing Ukrainian forces to evade detection and operate with greater freedom and security. In urban environments where traditional concealment methods may be limited, Multispectral Camouflage enables Ukrainian soldiers to blend into their surroundings. Whether navigating through rubble-strewn streets or taking cover in damaged buildings, personnel outfitted with BCB’s camouflage can evade detection by drones scanning for heat signatures. The adoption of BCB’s MSC provides Ukrainian forces with a strategic edge in the ongoing conflict.”
“At BCB we not only have the advantage of the technology to design the camouflage to defeat the detection of the soldier on the ground 24/7 but we also build the advanced Mk 3 Dragon UAV with sister company UAVE based up the coast in Parc Aberporth. The Mk3 Dagon is a medium altitude 1000km long range UAV which can be equipped with advanced systems and sensors.”
Camouflage techniques have come a long way from simple coloration and pattern designs to sophisticated systems that manipulate various spectra of light to blend seamlessly into the environment. Traditional camouflage, while effective against the human eye at certain distances, often falls short against the advanced sensors employed by modern surveillance systems, including drones equipped with lighter-weight, multi-spectral imaging capabilities.
“The ability to conceal your infantryman on today’s battlefield 24/7 is an absolute key requirement for today’s armies. The arrival of the small, medium, and large UAVs on the battlefield means that the soldier is visible to the enemy day and night. At BCB we work with another local University to develop and produce products that provide protection from UAV-mounted IR cameras and radars. Our first foray into camouflage products was the Mk7 system which has been sold extensively throughout the world, BCB supplies over 55 armed forces. This did not provide the 24/7 protection required from IR cameras. So, we developed the MSC Mk8 camouflage system now being marketed extensively. This will be the centerpiece of our exhibit at the Close Combat Symposium in July.”
