Colorado-based MusclePharm Corporation (MusclePharm), a performance-lifestyle sports nutrition company, announced that it has entered into a partnership with the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine (USAFSAM) in Ohio to develop products specific to the needs of special tactics airmen when in combat.

Through a cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA) initiated in late 2015, MusclePharm and USAFSAM are sharing resources to develop and produce a specially formulated Air Force powder supplement containing essential electrolytes, vitamins, minerals and proteins.

Paul Falcone, senior research and development manager, and his team at the MusclePharm Sports Science Institute (MPSSI) are collaborating with Dr. Reginald O'Hara and his exercise physiology research team at USAFSAM, part of the Air Force Research Laboratory's 711th Human Performance Wing. The goal of the collaboration is to formulate a unique powder supplement for special tactics airmen that will enhance energy, performance and cognition during sustained operations missions in extreme conditions. The supplement will be used in the field via an operator's CamelBak hydration system.

The powder supplement will be made available to the exercise physiology research team at USAFSAM for testing purposes. The formulas developed by MusclePharm and USAFSAM are designed to provide nutrients essential to joint tactical air controllers (JTACs), special operations airmen, and other war fighters who must operate in austere, physically demanding environments.

"We are honored to have the opportunity to support the men and women of the United States Air Force," said Ryan Drexler, CEO of MusclePharm. "MusclePharm is focused on science, innovation and efficacy, and ultimately providing the best product possible to the public. This partnership allows us to execute against this strategy and receive feedback in order to ensure that we are meeting the explicit needs of Air Force special tactics airmen, who often face extreme and challenging conditions."

"MusclePharm's high quality products, combined with their commitment to scientific research, made them a logical partner," said O'Hara. "Supplements are a critical source of nutrition for our men and women in combat and it is crucial to ensure they are using the optimal product when in the field, as well as during training. The company's Sports Science Institute has provided us with a platform to test ingredients and refine the product to support maximum performance."

For more information, visit www.musclepharm.com and www.musclepharmcorp.com.