The US Army is a highly mobile, military force that must have the capability to operate worldwide. To ensure operational readiness of the troops, adequate quantities of safe drinking water must be available. The Army's reverse osmosis water purification units (ROWPUs) have met this challenge for the past 15 years. However, the world is rapidly changing and so is the Army. Force structure and doctrine designed to meet a Cold War threat are being updated. The new Army, whose mission now seems to include humanitarian as well as combat duties, has new water supply requirements that must be met. The MTC will require the expertise and commitment of both industry and government to meet this challenge. Together, the needs of the Army's ultimate weapon -- the Soldier -- will continue to be met.