M.A.R.S. SET Combat Backpack

M.A.R.S. SET Combat Backpack – Modular 46-Liter Backpack with Side Pockets

The Zentauron M.A.R.S. SET Combat Backpack combines the 30-liter M.A.R.S. combat backpack with two side combat pouches and a matching back panel. This creates a modular backpack system with a total volume of approximately 46 liters, allowing gear to be organized specifically between the main compartment and the side pouches.

The system is designed for users who need more storage space than the standalone M.A.R.S. offers, but do not want to use a permanently large and rigid 45- or 50-liter backpack.

The M.A.R.S., with a volume of approximately 30 liters, forms the base. Two side combat pouches each add about 8 liters, so that the set configuration provides a total of approximately 46 liters of usable storage volume.

Modular Backpack System Instead of a Fixed, Large Backpack

The unique feature of the M.A.R.S. SET lies in its modular design.

Instead of storing the entire volume in one large main compartment, the storage space is distributed as follows:

• approx. 30 liters in the M.A.R.S. combat backpack
• approx. 8 liters in the left combat pouch
• approx. 8 liters in the right combat pouch

This allows different categories of gear to be organized separately. Frequently used items or gear that’s intentionally carried separately can be stored in the side pouches, while the main compartment remains free for essential or larger gear.

If necessary, the M.A.R.S. can also be used as a compact 30-liter operational backpack without the side pouches.

M.A.R.S. Combat Backpack as the Basis

At the heart of the system is the M.A.R.S. combat backpack—Modular Assault Backpack Standard.

The 30-liter tactical backpack is designed to carry personal gear, operational supplies, and communications equipment. Extensive MOLLE/PALS webbing, internal securing options, a flat carrying system, and pass-throughs for antennas, cables, or hydration tubes allow for a variety of operational configurations.

Those who need only the base backpack can also purchase the M.A.R.S. combat backpack separately.

Two side pockets, each holding approximately 8 liters

The set includes two 8-liter combat pouches.

They were developed as a modular extension for the M.A.R.S. and attach to the sides of the backpack.

As a backpack with two side pouches, the M.A.R.S. SET offers approximately 16 liters of additional storage space without having to place the entire additional volume in the main compartment.

The combat pouches feature MOLLE webbing on the front and sides, a patch area, and two internal slip pockets. This allows smaller items or equipment that needs to be carried separately to be organized clearly.

The pouches can also be used independently of the M.A.R.S. on suitable MOLLE/PALS webbing.

Back panel included in the set

The package also includes the matching backpack back plate.

The HDPE back panel measures approximately 27 × 48 cm and slides into the designated slot in the M.A.R.S. system.

It stabilizes the backpack and creates a firm barrier between your back and the contents. This prevents hard or sharp objects in the main compartment from pressing directly against your back.

Unlike the standalone M.A.R.S., the back panel is already included in the SET.

MOLLE/PALS for Additional Expansions

Even with side pockets attached, the system remains modular and expandable.

The M.A.R.S. features 8 × 8 MOLLE/PALS mounts on the front.

On the sides, there are additionally:

• 4 × 4 MOLLE slots at the bottom of each side
• 4 × 2 MOLLE slots at the top

are available.

The two combat pouches also have their own MOLLE panels. Depending on the required configuration, additional compatible pouches or gear can therefore be added.

Despite its total volume of approximately 46 liters, the M.A.R.S. SET thus remains a modular MOLLE backpack system rather than a rigid, large-backpack configuration.

Internal Organization and Radio Mount

On the inside of the M.A.R.S., there is a separate slip pocket for larger items of equipment.

The design was developed, among other things, for radios such as the SEM 70 and devices from the PRC series.

A total of four internal tie-down straps —two in the upper section and two in the middle section—allow for secure fastening of the equipment inside.

Additionally, there is a permanently sewn-in mesh pocket with a zipper in the upper section of the front panel’s interior. It measures approximately 22 × 17 cm and is used to organize smaller or flatter items separately.

This makes the M.A.R.S. SET particularly suitable for applications where communication, operational, and personal equipment need to be transported separately and securely.

Two grommets for antennas, cables, and drinking tubes

There are two closable openings on the lid of the M.A.R.S.

Beneath each Velcro cover is an opening approximately 4 cm in diameter.

This allows, for example:

• radio antennas
• Cables
• hoses from a hydration system

to be routed from the main compartment to the outside.

There is also a sturdy webbing carrying handle in the center of the lid.

Four side compression straps and bottom loops

There are two compression straps on each side of the M.A.R.S. This provides a total of four side compression and securing straps.

They can be used for compression, to secure equipment carried on the sides, or to secure the backpack during vehicle transport.

Strap clips hold excess webbing in place and prevent long, loose ends.

There are also four strap loops at the bottom. With suitable webbing straps, additional gear—such as a sleeping pad—can be secured there.

Flat carrying system for mission-oriented use

The M.A.R.S. features lightly padded and ergonomically shaped shoulder straps.

The shoulder straps are approximately 7 cm wide at the top and taper downward to about 5 cm.

A 20-mm-wide, adjustable chest strap and a 25-mm-wide waist strap complete the carrying system.

The back panel consists of padded Cordura sections on the left and right. An unpadded vertical channel runs between the two padded zones.

The relatively flat carrying system is designed for operational use and for carrying in conjunction with additional equipment.

For transport or use in a vehicle, the shoulder straps and waist belt can be stowed in the back panel.

Applications and Target Groups

The M.A.R.S. SET is intended for users who need a modular combat backpack with a total volume of approximately 46 liters, two separate side pockets, and back reinforcement.

Typical target groups and areas of use include:

• military personnel and the Bundeswehr —for personal gear, operational supplies, and modular add-ons
• Police and government agencies —for mission-specific equipment and extended operations
• Radio and communications teams – thanks to the internal mounting and securing of larger radio units
• Emergency responders – when the main compartment and separately accessed side compartments need to be combined
• Education and training – for modular and variable equipment configurations
• Tactical users – requiring MOLLE/PALS, additional storage space, and separate organization
• Outdoor and bushcraft enthusiasts – when a rugged, modular backpack with additional external storage is needed

This set configuration is particularly useful when the single 30-liter M.A.R.S. backpack does not provide enough storage space, but a large, rigid backpack is not desired. The two side pockets allow for additional storage space to be added as needed or removed when not required.

Compared to a classic large backpack, the M.A.R.S. SET thus offers the advantage that the additional volume is modular and can be used depending on the task and the equipment required.

Cordura, IRR/NIR, and Manufactured in Germany

The combat backpack and the two combat pouches are made from durable Cordura® polyamide 6.6.

The M.A.R.S. SET is IRR/NIR-equipped and designed to meet professional operational requirements.

Development and manufacturing take place at Zentauron in Germany.

Contents

• 1 × M.A.R.S. combat backpack
• 2 × 8-liter combat pouches
• 1 × Backpack back panel

A hydration bladder, waist strap, additional MOLLE pouches, and other accessories are not included in the scope of delivery unless they are expressly listed as part of the selected configuration.