As part of the never-ending quest of the US Military to improve things, and combined with the Marine Corps' need to do everything better, it was decided to improve on the MOLLE system. In 2004, the USMC rolled out the new ILBE (Improved Load Bearing Equipment) packs. These large packs are better at distributing weight and can hold up to 120 pounds in 4500 cubic inches of space. The first generation was in Woodland Marpat with black padding and features, while the second generation is also Marpat, but with tan padding and features.

The large ILBE Rucksack is assembled from the main pack, shoulder straps, and kidney pad mounted on a frame, with a detachable lid with an internal pocket. The main pack is one large pocket with a roll-out cover to separate into two compartments if needed or desired. Exterior zippers running the bag's height enable access to whatever you need without emptying your entire pack. The pack's top is covered with a corded dust lid, and clips closed on its own. On the outside, the pack is covered with MOLLE webbing, which allows attaching any and all MOLLE pouches and packs to your bag, instead of taking up space inside or carrying them separately.

The key elements that are the secret to the comfort and weight distribution of this pack are the internal frame and the two spars going up the back. The metal spars come molded for your back but can be custom bent if needed. The shoulder straps and kidney pad are extra-wide and comfortably padded; they spread the weight and minimize pressure points. Exterior compression straps ensure that your gear doesn't shift much even while you're moving. All straps can be adjusted to a wide variety of sizes, allowing all body types to use the rucksack comfortably.