Clothing for the troops

Modernisations and subsequent procurements commissioned

In a press release dated 19 December 2024, the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) somewhat awkwardly announces that it intends to procure new clothing and is "already procuring modern and high-quality clothing and personal equipment for the performance of their duties while providing the best possible protection" for soldiers and civilian employees. It goes on to say: "The implementation of the follow-up solution in the Bundeswehr's clothing management, which began in 2023, has been continuously developed since then. To this end, the existing framework agreement with Bundeswehr Clothing Management (BwBM) GmbH must be regularly amended. The fifth amendment agreement signed today includes both new services and the corresponding funding for the years 2025 to 2032. The agreement will take effect when the 2025 budget comes into force."

A man/woman has to be allowed to look good sometimes! Photo: Daniel Angres

The cost of the procurement was criticised due to the amount of 825 million euros. The BMVg responded to this by explaining the costs: it is about "modernisation and renewal measures" in the areas of combat, work and sports clothing as well as service clothing. This also includes dress uniforms and backpacks. "Among other things, a new, contemporary service uniform was commissioned for the active troops and the reserve in order to provide them with items with an improved fit and optimised outer material without significantly changing the traditional appearance." it says.

The fact that the newspaper "Bild am Sonntag" claimed that the Bundeswehr was planning to spend "825 million on uniforms" is of course not believed by our colleagues in Hamburg, it just reads very spectacularly. The truth is that this money is sorely needed: there has been a lack of many things for years - this must come to an end. How often have we had to read about missing gloves and similar things that are taken for granted? In addition, there were bottlenecks in clothing management for self-help clothing, an embarrassing bankruptcy and empty shelves. Clothing allowances were also cut.

And quite honestly, dear readers: It's about time, especially in the operation of BwBM GmbH, to invest in storage space, logistics and personnel.

This also includes: MOBAST (Modular Ballistic Protection and Carrying Equipment for Soldiers). Photo: Bw

SPIEGEL published an interview with the textile entrepreneur Kathrin Schlüter, who reported on dreadful wearing comfort and scratchy fabrics. This topic is finally getting attention, because smart clothing is also public relations work and recruitment. Navy personnel may have a great look, but some fine-tuning and textile quality would also be necessary here. And as far as the dress uniform is concerned: these "50 shades of grey" are apparently so unpopular that people prefer to wear the so-called "spot camouflage" even on official occasions. There was already a push for modernisation in the noughties in the then BMVg in Bonn, but this was rejected for cost reasons.

When you consider that it's not just about new clothing for the active and reserve forces, but also about stockpiling and regeneration in all sizes, widths and facets, the 825 million almost seems a little tight.

The editorial team is looking forward to your opinion.