The Royal Marines Commandos are modernizing their operations in a program called the Future Commando Force.
It is the biggest transformation and rebranding the Comamndos have seen since the World War II. As part of that program, they have announced the redesigned uniform that the Commandos will wear.
The new uniform is designed to allow the troops to work in the modern era of warfare while maintaining the maritime traditions of the Commandos and honoring those soldiers who came before them.
The uniforms will be procured through NATO from US-based Crye Precision. They are made from lighter-weight material with a higher tear-strength, faster drying time, and is more breathable than a 50/50 cotton/nylon blend.
The camouflage design has been subtly reworked as well. Out goes the multi-terrain pattern of old and in comes the new Multicam pattern designed by Crye Precision.
The new uniforms will bear the original Commando insignia which was worn by the elite forces as they launched their raids into Nazi Germany 80 years ago.
Consisting of a flash with red lettering on a navy blue background, the return to the traditional insignia coincides with the Commandos’ evolution to conducting more amphibious raids as required by modern day conflicts.
The Commandos will wear the White Ensign on one sleeve as a nod to their integration with the Royal Navy.
The uniforms will also feature the 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines patch which has been redesigned to highlight the original design of the Fairbairn-Sykes Dagger originally made in 1940.
Lt Col Ben Reynolds RM led the procurement and design of the new uniform. He said that the practical nature of the uniforms should not be overlooked. The uniforms were designed to function in any environment the Commandos should find themselves deployed.
Reynolds said that the combat shirts and pants, the field shirts and pants, and the utility jacket and belt were already being distributed to the Marines who will begin wearing the uniforms in the fall.
The new uniforms are part of a wider program of change underway in the Royal Marines. The Future Commando Force is emphasizing more sea-based operations and new and innovative technologies and strategies intended to keep the Marines in position to respond to any need including battles and humanitarian aid.
James Heappey, the Minister for the Armed Forces, lauded the new uniforms for their ability to keep the Marines prepared to deal with any threat they are called upon to meet.
Heappey also noted the significance of debuting the new uniforms on the 80th anniversary of the first Commando raid in World War II.
He stated that the return to the traditional insignia would link the Commandos to their history as they undergo the modernization program that is intended to keep them among the best amphibious forces in the world.
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The procurement process for the new uniforms took just over one year. The NATO Support & Procurement Agency was utilized throughout the process which helps to demonstrate the Royal Navy’s eagerness to invest in the Royal Marines.