Nonwoven fabrics are potential candidates in the development of military combat apparel systems due to their versatility and low manufacturing costs. The United States military currently uses nonwoven fabrics in most military combat apparel and equipment systems, including protective clothing for cold weather and ballistic and chemical attack, flameproof apparel systems, battle dress, footwear, sleeping equipment, and gloves. The Natick Soldier Center developed an infantry helmet using a unidirectional tape of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene(UHMW PET) and a UHMW PET/ceramic composite for a small arms protective insert. New nonwoven fabrics are under investigation for use in apparel applications (poncho liners, chemical protective uniforms, and microclimate cooling vests) and nonapparel applications (tents and parachutes). The increasing use of digitization on the battle field will require breakthroughs in material technologies that extend the multifunctionality of textiles, The future Objective Force Warrior combat apparel system will feature an integrated light weight helmet and suit ensemble featuring advanced protection and sustainment features; an integrated light weight sensor, communications, and power suite capable of operating in a network centric manner: and integrated light weight sensor and weapons capability that is accurate in complex terrain and urban environments. The Natick Soldier Center's Broad Agency Announcement and National Protection Center facilitate industry and academic research for military applications. 10 refs.