[2] The mask was designed to incorporate state-of-the-art technology to protect soldiers from current and anticipated threats from all types of weapons of mass destruction.

[5] In March 2016, it was announced that 166,623 M50s were purchased by the Department of Defense (DOD) under a $42 million contract.

The single-element eye lens gives the mask a 96 degree field of view and improved compatibility with military equipment and battlefield optical systems.

The lifetime ownership cost of the mask was reduced by 50% when compared with the M40 series mask due to a lower repair part count, all maintenance being completed at the operator and unit level and color coding of repair parts which decreased on-hand repair part inventory.

[7] FM - Foreign Military Export (civilian market sales will have this designator) This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Marine Corps.