The Ministry of Defense dealt with the modernization of an already outdated piece of equipment - a small infantry shovel (MPL). These devices were used during the First World War. They were necessary in order to dig in, chop firewood and even cook their own food. Since then, the design has remained unchanged for a long time, but not so long ago it was improved. The upgraded shovel can be used as a dangerous weapon for hand-to-hand combat.
Expert opinions agree that the sapper shovel has always remained and remains the most important element of a serviceman’s equipment.
Official representatives of the Ministry of Defense shared information with the Izvestia edition, from which it became clear that some military structures of the Russian Federation were already equipped with new equipment. The tests, which took more than two years, are over, and the latest changes have been approved. By November 10, 2018, the latest transformer shovels will begin to enter into service with various Russian troops.
Benefits
The newest MPL differs from its previous version by much lower weight and compactness. But the most important useful quality was the ability to change the position of the blade shovel. For this purpose, an additional locking component is provided with which the angle of inclination is changed. Now the soldier can easily use the MPL as a hoe, an ax or even a saw.
At the same time, the possibilities of the invention used during hand-to-hand combat are simply amazing. Now in the manuals on physical training will be spelled out the options for using a shovel as a weapon.
The cloth MPL is created with the use of high strength steel treated with anti-reflective and anti-corrosion substance. The handle is made of polymeric materials. For some units a set of shovels will be different accessories. For example, adapters for attaching a mine probe are provided for engineering troops.
The development of this multi-functional shovel was a major breakthrough in the creation of innovative equipment.
