US Army 5d mark2

Most of the stuff in the setup package is definitely not useful in combat areas. The setup allows complete processing to the final movie format ready for broadcast. Way over kill. Remember that the guys suggesting and authorizing these kits are photogs first and foremost. They don't give a dang on cost. To them it's the newest fad out there so that's what they want. It also allows them to learn on military equipment instead of their own. This is definitely a buy based on individual wants, why not let Uncle Sam buy it for me? Indeed it is great to be able to capture video and photos at high quality. But having all the extras in a combat zone is wasteful ... well that's what it's all about in the government. Back at the photo lab on base it makes more sense.

Yeah I watched most of it Jason. The Lt. in charge of the purchase was a broadcasting major.

I don't know all the details Don, but the 5d body armor is the only thing they use in combat.

Personally I would have probably just bought gopro cameras and attached them to the helmet if I was in charge of purchasing.

However this shows you how the younger generation chooses the standard regardless of whether its the 'right' decision. If schools are training on them, and the military is training on them you are creating a whole generation of people who are used to shooting video this way. Like me ; )

Mark, he said the full screen night vision alone was 8 grand. Most of the 75 minutes was in answering questions but the first 30 minutes he mentioned that only one company supplies all the gear they use.and for the services.

Yeah I guess the nightvision thing added a lot.

Here are some pics of combat cameramen with 5ds, I guess sometimes they go out with a stedicam and audio stuff.
http://documentarytech.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/dennis_web21.jpg
http://documentarytech.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/dennis_web1-224x300.jpg

The Lt. said cameramen had to carry the same gear everyone else carried on a mission plus camera gear.

ironstrike, great photos, I cannot imagine working as a war photographer/videographer, so much courage!