Reducing the Visual Signature of the M4A1 Rifle
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37266/ISER.2016v4i2.pp163-170Abstract
The Maneuver Center of Excellence (MCoE) presented a directive to reduce the visual signature for small arms weapons by altering the color of the M4A1 rifle from its traditional black color. This research utilizes the Systems Decision Process (SDP) to develop and analyze alternatives to create a feasible and permanent solution to reduce the weapon’s visual signature. The research consisted of an extensive stakeholder and functional analysis to develop a value model and framework that provides a values-based recommendation. The model establishes an optimal color change process that accounts for the design and performance characteristics of the weapon system and the stakeholder’s values. The research also analyzes the potential integration of short wave infrared (SWIR) mitigation into the new color of the weapon. This analysis will establish a baseline methodology for weapon color change for all Army small arms weapons.References
Driscoll, P. J., Henderson, D. L., & Parnell, G. S. (2011). Decision Making in Systems Engineering and Management.
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Ramsley, A.O. (1979). Camouflage Patterns – Effects of Size and Color (Report No. 202). Natick, MD: US Natick Research
& Development Command
Roberts, B. (2015). The researchers gathered information from verbal discussions with this subject matter expert on SWIR.
Superior Metals. (2015). Superior Metals and Alloys. Retrieved from: http://www.superiormetals.ca/
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