[1][2] In 1998, the US Army Special Forces Command (Airborne) began the SOFTAPS initiative, directing their organic Airborne Special Operations Test Directorate (ASOTD) to identify an interim replacement for the MC1-1 until the Advanced Tactical Parachute System (ATPS) Program Office fielded a suitable permanent replacement.

The ASOTD tested six candidates at Fort Carson with drop zones at over 6,000 ft (1,800 m) in elevation in 1999, ultimately selecting an existing commercial off-the-shelf product used by Forest Service smokejumpers called the FS-14 Parachute.

[1] The T-11 harness provides a wider array of sizing options for jumper comfort and fit, features integral attachment points for the newly developed T-11R Reserve Parachute, and is capable of sustaining 40 lb (18 kg) more weight than the T-10 harnesses used in the SF-10A.

[2] The MC-6 main canopy has a nominal diameter of 32 ft (9.8 m) at the skirt with a poly-conical shape and is constructed of low permeability nylon parachute cloth.

A brake slot reduces forward drive and allows for the canopy to be maneuvered backwards.

[4] After exiting the aircraft, the jumper falls to the end of the static line pulling the curved pin from the pack-closing loop.

[2] To turn the canopy, the parachutist pulls down the appropriate control line toggle which closes the attached extended gores.