packaging military vehicles

Many industries rely on protective packaging to ensure high-value assets are not compromised during either indoor or outdoor storage. Arguably, the industry with the most stringent standards for maintaining equipment performance is the United States Department of Defense (DOD). The DOD has high levels of accountability for expenses and a low threshold for any loss of equipment integrity.

While potential threats to military equipment may be similar to other industries, packaging military vehicles carries unique requirements. Here are a few examples.

Aircraft Threats

When it comes to aircraft, there are many environmental threats to consider. Moisture must be taken into consideration, as well as heat. The introduction of oxygen or contaminates such as salt or other debris can quickly create corrosion. In the military, aircraft may also be transported across the globe, facing land and sea travel concerns within the same trip.

Storing aircraft indoors is not always an option due to space or cost. Instituting a packaging process that controls the environment directly around the aircraft is often the best solution. Mothballing/cocooning with a flexible moisture barrier that is customized for your equipment protects every part of the aircraft, from engine to electronics.

This cost-effective process is two-fold. First, money is saved by storing the equipment outdoors and second, with the right packaging, you will not be faced with repair or replacement costs.

Weapons System Threats

The damage facing weapons systems is vast and varied. There are numerous weapons systems, ranging from those controlled directly by military personnel to those remotely directed using GPS systems. Both face threats during transport or at the locations where they are activated, such as Foreight Object Debris (FOD) like birds or tools. Protecting them not only saves the country money, but reduces risk of injury during usage.

The best choice for protective packaging varies, depending on the weapons system. For example, if a system is carried and operated by an individual, a recommended solution would be lightweight, such as a custom-designed cover with a moisture barrier inside. In the case of a remotely operated system, transportation should be reflected in the solution. This should include protection against moisture, heat, altitude, and other threats and require a multifaceted protective solution.

Military Vehicles

There are many reasons why military vehicles need protective packaging. Similar to aircraft, it is possible that vehicles may need to be prepared for overseas transport. However, another circumstance is when vehicles used by specific units need to be protected while the unit is deployed overseas. In this case, protection may need to be effective for years to ensure reliability once the unit has returned.

After determining what environmental threats the vehicles will need to endure, several layers of protection will need to be established. Protecting vehicle cabs and electronic systems require desiccant and moisture protection. The vehicle will also need an outer layer to protect against weather elements. This outer layer may include multilayered bags made with polyethylene and aluminum foil. Packaging customized to your unique specifications is the best way to ensure protection.

Multifaceted Equipment Protection

Aircraft, vehicles, and weapons systems are just a few examples of the types of equipment that need to be protected for shipment, storage, or both. Any number of electrical equipment items, such as radars, antennas, and computer boards all require secure packaging to maintain functionality and to leave no room for error due to damage.

All industries face specific storage and shipping challenges. Preventing equipment damage for unique items requires a partner who is experienced in thinking outside the box and developing solutions for various threats. The threats that these types of items face depend greatly on their location and/or destination.

With a radar, for example, electrostatic discharge (ESD) needs to be accounted for, as well as protection from shock. This requires the dual protection of both an ESD barrier as well as padding. In the case of a telescope, a custom-sized moisture barrier bag would be needed to protect all portions of the equipment. It would also require a cover to protect from debris during road travel..

Best Protective Packaging Practices

Even with an understanding of the greatest threats and best practices, working with a protective packaging provider committed to MIL-Spec standards, proven credentials, and innovative solutions is ultimately the best way to ensure that your equipment arrives, or stays stored, unscathed.

If you are looking for the best solution to your protective packaging challenges, look no further. Protective Packaging Corporation is standing by and ready to help with your most precious cargo. If you would like for us to do an onsite visit to provide suggestions or a quote, we’d love to help you hit your target. Feel free to contact us online or call us at 1-866-229-0437.