United States Marine Corps Weapons & Equipment
M17 Lightweight Decontamination System
Primary function: Decontamination apparatus.
System dimensions:
Length: 40.2 inches (107.19 cm)
Width: 23.2 inches (58.93 cm)
Height: 33.9 inches (86.11 cm)
Weight: 360 pounds (163.44 kg)
Accessory kit dimensions:
Length: 41.8 inches (106.17 cm)
Width: 20.5 inches (52.07 cm)
Height: 15.4 inches (39.12 cm)
Weight: 143 pounds (64.92 kg)
Water bladder dimensions:
Height: 5.8 feet (176.9 cm) when full
Weight: 70 pounds (31.78 kg)
Capacity: 1580 gallons (6000 liters)
Water temperature: up to 248 degrees Farenheit (119.88 degrees Centigrade)
Water delivery rate: 9 gallons (34.06 liters) per minute
Setup time: less than 30 minutes
Unit Replacement Cost: $13,817
Features: The Lightweight Decontamination System is a compact, lightweight, portable decontamination system. It
consists of a 7.3 horsepower engine, a self-priming pump for drawing and pressurizing water, a fan assembly to
deliver combustion air to the heater, a water heater with a coil of tubing 90 feet (27.45 meters) long, a self-priming
pump for the heater fuel system, and a small generator to supply electricity for ignition and safety control functions.
The LDS is transportable by 3/4-ton trailer, 5/4-ton cargo trucks, cargo aircraft, and helicopters (sling load).
The LDS provides pressurized water at temperatures up to 248 degrees Farenheit (119.88 degrees Centigrade) at a
rate of up to 9 gallons (34.06 liters) per minute. It draws water from a natural source up to 30 feet (9.15 meters)
away and 9 feet (2.75 meters) below pump level. There is an additional 3000 gallon (113.55 hectoliter) water storage
tank in the event a natural source of water is not available. The system is salt-water resistant.
Inventory: 1287 are currently fielded. The acquisition objective (AO) is 1449. 1221 (84 percent) of the AO is funded
and will be met by FY 95.
Information and Photos Courtesy of United States Marine Corps
