Navy personnel in North Queensland and the Northern Territory are the first to be issued the new maritime multi-cam pattern uniform (MMPU).
The MMPU uniform replaces the disruptive pattern Navy uniform (DPNU), which has been in service for the past 12 years.
Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Michael Noonan said it was great to see the roll-out of the new uniform.
“Our people are at the forefront of what our Navy achieves, and we rely on our people to be able to perform at their best in a variety of challenging environments,” Vice Admiral Noonan said.
“It’s important that their kit is fit-for-purpose and evolves to meet the needs of our fleet and the environments that we operate in.
“The new MMPU is based on design feedback directly from our sailors and will provide our people with greater utility and comfort to perform the important work they do in support of our nation.
“I look forward to seeing our members in Darwin and Cairns kitted out in the MMPU, providing them with greater comfort as we move into this summer season.”
The roll-out of the MMPU across Navy is scheduled to take place progressively across states and be completed late next year.
The new lighter-weight contemporary uniform uses the latest technology, enhancing the safety and comfort of members wearing it.
It brings uniformity across Defence as it features the familiar design of the Australian multi-cam camouflage uniform and the Air Force general purpose uniform, but retains the maritime grey tones and a few key differences unique to Navy requirements.
It took several years to undertake research and trial the MMPU before the design was finalised.
The contribution of Australian industry, working in collaboration with the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, was critical to the development of the uniform.
The garments are manufactured in Australia by Australian Defence Apparel in Bendigo and Melbourne, Victoria, and Workwear Group in Melbourne, Victoria, using fabric manufactured by Bruck Textiles in Wangaratta, Victoria.
Two versions of the MMPU are available, depending on the roles and duties of personnel.
The flame-resistant option, featuring reflective strips, meets work, health and safety regulations for members on sea-going duties and shore-based roles requiring a higher level of protection.
After Darwin and Cairns, the MMPU will be rolled out to WA towards the end of the first quarter of next year.
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