US Army to Acquire Hemp Fiber for Development of Next-Generation Sniper Suit

Recently, the US Armed Forces announced the allocation of funds to purchase 400,000 yards of industrial hemp fiber, along with a similar quantity of fibers from several other technical crops. According to information released by military officials, these materials will be used in the development of prototype models for a new generation of sniper camouflage suits.

Although the US military, along with the country’s law enforcement agencies, continues to be a primary opponent of federal cannabis reforms—including those aimed at legalizing and utilizing therapeutic cannabis—it appears that even the most conservative elements of these institutions could not ignore the practical benefits of hemp fiber. Stalk fibers from the plant are increasingly being used in the production of textiles and building materials due to their strength, reliability, and affordability. It is reasonable to assume that hemp was added to the procurement list because it is likely the strongest and most cost-effective eco-friendly raw material for producing fabrics that can withstand various climate conditions and types of stress.

Despite the fact that industrial hemp has been legal for farmers to grow nationwide since 2018, the military command still requires that the raw materials for the suit prototypes be supplied by vetted companies—specifically, organizations that already have contracts with the US federal government or work directly with government agencies. The materials may be provided either by newly certified hemp suppliers in several states or by the agency’s own plantation located at the University of Mississippi.