The modern battlefield is now full of electronic devices, with specialist radios, computers and tablet computers in use. These differ considerably from their civilian counterparts, being far more rugged than the relatively delicate mobile phones and IPads we are used to. The British Army use a system called ‘Bowman’ which in addition to having individual and unit radio systems, also has battlefield tablet computers called ‘LTDTs’ and a light weight man-pack data terminal produced by a company called L-3 Communications, called an ‘LMDT’:The Army’s website describes Bowman as:

BOWMAN exploits the latest developments in radio and computer technology to meet the needs for services well into the 21st century.

Designed to provide an integrated digital communications network interfacing with higher level systems and networks such as ISDN, Skynet V,Cormorant and FALCON.

Commanders at all levels are given secure voice and data communications as well as an integrated Global Positioning System (GPS).

Tonight we are looking at the carrying case for one of the LMDTs:This is made of DPM camouflaged Cordua nylon, and is fitted with a large belt loop on the rear to allow it to be attached to a webbing set:A small handle is fitted to the top of the case:A heavy duty shoulder strap is fitted, securing at two points on each side of the case:A heavily padded section is attached to make the LMDT more comfortable to carry (presumably it is a fairly heavy bit of kit!):The front of the case opens up, it is secured with two black plastic Fastex fasteners:Underneath this are a further pair of velcroed flaps that add protection to the screen of the LMDT when it is stowed away:Finally when the case is fully opened up it looks like this:Two elasticated straps help hold the LMDT secure, even when the case is open. NSN details are printed on the underside of the top flap:This is a beautifully well made case, and clearly very carefully designed, with openings and flap[s all over to protect the instrument, whilst still allowing it to be easily used. At this stage it seems unlikely I will find an LMDT to fit inside the case any time soon, but these things have a habit of appearing on the surplus market in due course as equipment is upgraded so perhaps something for the future…