The issue of ill-fitting military kit for women troops has been a persistent problem, despite a landmark report warning of the risks five years ago. The 2021 Atherton report highlighted the dangers of ill-fitting uniforms and equipment, urging the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to take immediate action. Yet, five years on, women service personnel continue to face challenges with body armour and other gear, with breasts and curves not adequately accounted for in the design.
One veteran, Rhian Brown, describes the experience of feeling unpresentable and unprotected in ill-fitting uniform. The new Virtus Scalable Tactical Vest, introduced in 2022, was an improvement, but still fell short of providing a proper fit for women's bodies. The issue is not just about vanity; it's a matter of safety. Brown's experience of being issued with a medium-sized body armour when she needed a small one highlights the ongoing struggle.
The MoD's response to the Atherton report has been mixed. They introduced curved body armour plates for women in the Ukrainian armed forces, a move praised by industry experts like Erin Grieve from NP Aerospace. These plates have been tested extensively, with 300 shots compared to the industry standard 36. However, this advanced kit is not yet available for UK servicewomen.
The problem extends beyond body armour. Ofsted's report in October 2025 revealed that women and smaller recruits were still being issued with ill-fitting kit and clothing for the fourth consecutive year. This disadvantage affects their training and combat readiness. Dr Mary Keeling from the Centre for Evidence for the Armed Forces acknowledges the inconsistent progress in introducing and providing new female-specific kit and equipment.
The MoD's plans for the future include delivering flat ballistic plates in 2028 and developing curved body armour plates through the Complex Geometry Body Armour Programme, with potential delivery from 2029. However, these plans may not address the specific needs of women service personnel, who are not flat but have breasts and curves.
The call for action is clear. As Fred Thomas, MP for Plymouth Moor View, emphasizes, providing body armour that fits women should be a priority, especially in a time of global instability. The armed forces' aspiration to be 30% female by 2030 relies on attracting and retaining women, which starts with ensuring they have the appropriate and well-fitting kit. The challenge is not just about equipment; it's about creating an environment where women feel welcome and supported.
In conclusion, the persistent issue of ill-fitting military kit for women troops highlights the need for a comprehensive and inclusive approach to equipment design and procurement. The MoD must accelerate progress to ensure women service personnel are adequately protected and supported, both in training and in combat.
