Ministry of Defence
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MOD fights battle against thirst
British troops operating in the hot climates of Afghanistan are testing two innovative water filters to give them access to emergency drinking water in the heat of the battle.
The Pure Hydration Expedition Field Pump System, produced by Farnham-based BW Technologies, allows the individual to draw water from a contaminated source, purify it by removing bacteria, waterborne pathogens, sediment and heavy metals and pump it back, decontaminated, into the service issue Camelback.
The LIFESAVER Bottle, produced by Ipswich-based LIFESAVER Systems, is pumped manually to filter dirty water through a membrane. The muddy water is then instantly decontaminated to remove bacteria, viruses, fungi and waterborne pathogens.
Over 4000 filters are being trialled with members of 19 Mechanised Brigade currently serving in Afghanistan.
Minister for Defence Equipment and Support, Quentin Davies, said:
“Safe and plentiful drinking water is vital to troops, particularly those working in temperatures in excess of 50°C in Afghanistan. These bottles will ensure troops have access to clean water wherever their missions take them, including some of the remotest corners of Helmand Province.”
Project Manager Sqn Ldr Mike Cook, from the DE&S Defence Clothing team, added:
“Staying hydrated on operations is one of the many challenges of the battle; in extreme conditions, troops can lose up to one litre of fluid an hour.
“Dismounted troops routinely carry five litres of fluid, however if they are operating further forward and running low then these filters will provide a safe, emergency source of drinking water.”
The trials will test the effectiveness of the filters, their ease of use and durability under harsh battle conditions. It is expected the trials will be completed later this year and the MOD will then decide whether to purchase further kit for wider distribution on operations.
Notes to editors
1. For further information please contact Lisa Murphy at the DE&S Press Office on 07810237923 or Sonia Marshall in the MOD Press Office on 07919 625587.
2. Photos of both products are available from the Defence News Imagery website, www.defencenewsimagery.co.uk, or by calling the Defence Picture Desk on 0207 218 6401.
3. For further information on the Pure Hydration Expedition Field Pump please visit www.purehydration.co.uk. or contact Jon Grant on 01252 727820.
4. For further information on the LIFESAVER Bottle please visit www.lifesaversystems.com or contact Debbie Kiddle 01473 252831.
