Analysis of the Acquisition Approach for the Next-Generation Special Operations Forces Personal Equipment Advanced Requirements (SPEAR) Loadout for SEALs

Abstract

SPEAR is U.S. Special Operations Command’s program for outfitting Special Operations Forces with advanced clothing and equipment. However, a 2021 survey of Navy sea, air, and land (SEAL) operators indicated that much SPEAR gear goes unused and a majority of SEALs personally procure commercial gear to supplement their loadout. This study examines two of the ten functional areas of Naval Special Warfare’s next generation SPEAR loadout, the Load Carriage System (LCS) and Body Armor Vest (BAV), to determine user adherence (gear utilization), amount of commercial gear SEALs personally procure, and if the new SPEAR loadout is reducing SEALs’ out-of-pocket expenses.