Royal Marines Commandos to Receive Brand New Uniforms

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Evanston, IL – July 1, 2020 – Known as the Future Commando Force program, the elite Marine Commandos of the Royal Navy are undertaking a bold modernization project – one that seeks to overhaul the way world famous Green Berets are seen around the world. 

Included in this restructuring is affording the Royal Marines a new uniform that will be fit for a new era of warfare and one that’s in-keeping with the maritime traditions of the corps, and also honors their commando descents.  

In what is being called the NATO procured uniform, which was obtained from USA-based firm Crye Precision, they are of a lighter weight, have higher tear-strength, and they’re more breathable than your typical 50/50 cotton/nylon kit.  

It also has a subtle change in camouflage designs – instead of the previous multi-terrain pattern the uniform now uses Crye Precision’s MultiCam pattern. 

And in honor of the 80th anniversary of Operation Collar, the first commando raid of World War 2, the marines have returned to the traditional Royal Marines Commando Insignia – just like the design first worn by commandos when they launched during raids into Nazi-occupied Europe. 

In addition, the flash with red writing and the navy-blue background will be worn once again as commandos continue to conduct raids from the sea to counter the threats of the modern-day battlefield. Under the Future Commando Force, Royal Marines will also use new and innovative technology as high-readiness troops, forward deployed and ready to react, regardless of whether it’s war-fighting, specific combat missions such as commando raids, or providing humanitarian assistance. 

Also, for the first time, the White Ensign features on one sleeve as a clear indication of the Royal Marines’ integration with the Royal Navy. The iconic Fairbairn-Sykes Dagger patch of 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines has been redesigned and is based on the first pattern of the legendary fighting knife made in 1940.  

“The Royal Marines are integral to the Royal Navy and an extremely versatile elite force, able to operate from mountain and Arctic wastes to jungle and littorals,” Lt. Col. Ben Reynolds said. “The Royal Marines’ Commando Uniform 2020 reflects our distinctiveness and the unique capabilities we bring to defense, in addition to the Royal Navy’s eagerness to invest in our development towards the Future Commando Force.

The practical benefits of this uniform shouldn’t be underestimated. It has been specifically selected to serve commandos as they carry out operations all around the globe in the most extreme environments. Marines are already receiving the new combat shirt and trousers, a field shirt and trousers, a utility jacket and utility belt, and will begin wearing the new uniform from this Autumn.” 

The new uniform harks back to the fabled commandos’ heritage while updating their equipment, which is in part of a wider transformational drive that will change the Royal Marines operate.  

The Royal Marines’ Commando Uniform 2020 was procured in just over one year, utilizing the NATO Support & Procurement Agency, demonstrating the Royal Navy’s appetite to invest in the Royal Marines.