[quote]Also, I'm unsure if GEAR loadouts or weapons are exclusive to the characters the RPers choose to use.[/quote]
Well, the main idea behind GEARs is that they're like modern-day fighter jets or attack helicopters when it comes to their weaponry, and it's all mounted in hardpoints that can be swapped and changed around to suit different mission profiles, so that the weaponry can be tailored for various encounters and situations. Interchangable fittings and mountings for all sorts of weaponry and equipment as needed, that can be swapped over at base, so if you need a sniper rifle this time instead of a machine gun, it's just a swap at base. Or a missile launcher instead of a Vulcan Cannon, etc etc. 

Regarding the tech behind them too, that's the kind of stuff I had in mind from the get-go as well; since the setting is supposed to have tech that's not uber-advanced, but is up on our own modern-day tech, things like the technologies you mention would be quite likely to be in place with the bugs ironed out. Electrothermal propellants, caseless cartridges, electric ignition and so on and so forth would all be pretty cool to have along as well. 

I look forward to seeing the history. I'll try and add your character to the OP when I have a chance, however I'm going to be away for a tabletop RP from Friday evening, and back on Sunday, so it might not be until after that, as I'll likely be busy tomorrow as well packing, on top of doing my normal evening chores and routine.