Ukrainian Armed Forces to test Female Combat Gear Kit pilot project for women soldiers
The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, in partnership with the non-governmental organization Zemliachky, has launched a project to improve military uniforms and combat gear for female service members. The signed memorandum of cooperation focuses on refining clothing designs and conducting pilot testing of the specialized Female Combat Gear Kit. The new equipment will be tested by 1,000 women serving in combat roles over a 12-month period. This is reported by the portal PromPolitInform, citing information from the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, based on data from NGO Zemliachky.
Currently, the summer field suit remains the only officially approved uniform model for female military personnel in Ukraine. Standardized autumn, spring, and winter uniforms for women are not provided by regulations, forcing many service members to purchase necessary gear independently after completing basic military training.
The signed agreement outlines two main areas of cooperation. The first covers the refinement of summer and winter military uniform sets to accommodate female ergonomics, freedom of movement, and gear compatibility. The initial winter suit prototype was developed using patterns from the NGO, with further modifications subject to feedback from service members.
Pilot Project Equipment Specifications
The second initiative is the Female Combat Gear Kit research project, which will involve 1,000 female soldiers deployed to combat roles after training. Participants will receive a comprehensive equipment set containing winter and demiseason boots, thermal underwear, a 5-in-1 demiseason suit, and a winter jacket with insulated trousers.
The combat set also includes a helmet, an anatomical plate carrier with lightweight armor plates, an individual medical kit with four tourniquets, a tactical backpack, active hearing protection, a sleeping bag, a sleeping mat, a poncho rain jacket, and a field transport case. The NGO manages procurement and logistics, while the ministry sets selection criteria and grants unit access.
Evaluating Efficiency and International Standards
Over the course of 12 months, organizers will track the durability of each item, replacement needs, personal out-of-pocket purchases, sizing issues, and the cost-effectiveness of centralized distribution. Deputy Minister of Defence Mstyslav Banik emphasized that supply chain decisions will rely strictly on data collected from front-line personnel.
“Decisions regarding the modernization of female uniform sets and element replacements will be made exclusively after testing and receiving feedback from the military women themselves,” stated Deputy Minister of Defence Mstyslav Banik.
Similar gender-adapted protective gear programs have previously been implemented by the armed forces of the United States and the United Kingdom. Following the pilot project, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine will consider adding the standardized gear kit to official military supply regulations.
Photo: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine
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