Marine Corps invests in new water purification system for field troops

The United States Marine Corps recently invested in a next-generation water purification system, called the Individual Water Purification System Block II (IWPS II), which allows troops to obtain safe, drinkable water straight from its source.

Contemporary practices involve using filters for bacteria and cysts and water purification tablets to remove viruses, which can take up to 15 minutes before water is safe to drink. The new IWPS II utilizes an internal cartridge to filter micro pathogens in a shorter amount of time.

“IWPS II will remove all three pathogens, filtering all the way down to the smallest virus that can be found,” Capt. Jeremy Walker, project officer for Water Systems, said. “We have removed the chemical treatment process, so they can drink directly from the fresh water source.”

The new system can also connect to troops man-packable hydration packs and can be used like a straw directly from the source water. The system also has the ability to backflush to clean the filter membrane, extending the service life.

“IWPS II will be especially helpful for deployed Marines in emergency situations when they are far from their base to ensure they have a source of water without resupply,” Walker said.

The Marine Corps said the IWPS II will be fielded sometime in FY2018.