The IDF replaces the mythical teddy bear coat: According to the plan, with the realization of the expected purchase, the representative coat of the IDF soldiers will be replaced with new softshells that will be distributed starting with the September 2021 enlistment.
“We know that a lot of soldiers avoid wearing the first coat, even when it’s cold. Therefore, we want to adjust it, improve its visibility and its functionality,” explains Col. Nurit Kadosh, Brigadier General of the RMB.
The new representative coats are the result of a collaboration between the IAF (Land Technology Division), the Personnel Division and the CIS (United Supply Center). On the way they passed certifications of appearance and dress committee and quality control processes. The appearance of the military softshell, as Colonel Kadosh relates, is very reminiscent of a civilian “off-the-shelf” product: “It will be aesthetic and up-to-date and will meet the most important need in winter – to warm the soldiers.”
The softshell is a light coat similar to a brass coat, with a warming lining, and a pocket zipped in the back area with a hat, and the right arm of the coat will be embroidered with the Israeli flag. The land servants will receive an olive green softshell, and one of the navy blue will be divided into the sea and air arm.
“Hattal engineers have characterized a jacket that provides protection against rain, wind and cold,” explains Col. Yossi Daniel, commander of the NSA unit (experiments and quality assurance). “The jacket is presentable, fashionable and updated in accordance with what is accepted in the field. It is made of a three-layer waterproof fabric, which includes a “breathable” layer that allows the sweat to evaporate.
As mentioned, the new softshell is expected to be provided to soldiers in BKOM starting this coming September. “They will receive him in the army chain instead of the familiar teddy bear coat, and he will accompany the new soldiers during their service, along with the second coat, also similar to the existing softshell among combatants in units. Warriors, “notes Ramach HaShabra. Soldiers who are currently in service, or who enlisted before September, will receive and move in the regular first coats they received on the day of their enlistment.
“On the first uniform, it will be allowed to wear the softshell coat, in which the State of Israel flag is embroidered on the right arm, or the teddy bear coat for those whose coat is not replaced,” explains Lt. Col. Hadas Mizrahi, head of regime and discipline.
“The unit badge will be worn on the left shoulder and the beret will be worn. In addition, ranks will be worn on the coat, and it will be zipped. .
The coat is not the only solution for IDF soldiers, there is also the sweater. In about two months, the supply of synthetic sweaters is expected to begin, which will provide a solution for all soldiers, and especially for vegan soldiers.