New MFEs in Poland Steps Above Older Versions

A Soldier and Exchange associate attach the Exchange sign to a mobile field exchange serving American troops on military exercises in Poland.

New mobile field exchanges (MFEs), three of which are now serving American troops in Poland, are sturdier and more sophisticated than the aluminum-and-plywood ones they replaced.

They also don’t require as much energy to move and maintain and aren’t easily damaged in contingency locations like the old MFEs.

The 40-foot trailers they replaced had aluminum framing, and plywood floors and sides. Openings for doors and HVAC units made them even weaker structurally. All  equipment was installed outside the trailers, exposing them to Mother Nature.

With no loading docks, associates had to carry merchandise by hand.

The new MFEs are made of 45-foot-long shipping containers encased in strong steel for easy movement by rail, truck or ship and were designed by Lt. Col. Jason Dudjak, the Exchange’s deputy commander in Europe and Air Force engineer. Tractor-trailers move the MFEs on chassis that are removable, allowing them to be rolled anywhere associates want them.

A diesel generator and heating and air-conditioning system are located inside in a room separate from the retail portion. With the generator as backup, the MFE can get its electricity from the commercial power grid.

Each MFE features a retractable loading dock. Forklifts can deposit merchandise pallets on the dock, while associates move them inside by jack.