Background

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) continuously reviews Personal Equipment for the soldiers to ensure that it meets the SAF's operational and training requirements.

The hybrid uniform was conceptualised in 2011 for the Singapore Army and has undergone extensive trials. Various agencies such as Headquarters Supply, Headquarters 9th Singapore Division, the Defence Science and Technology Agency, and ST Logistics worked together in the acquisition process, from crafting of technical specification to ensuring that the quality of the final product fulfills our requirements.

Features of Hybrid Uniform

The hybrid uniform's dual fabric design, made up of both high-performance fabric and the tougher No. 4 uniform pixelised fabric, enhances the performance for our soldiers by providing better comfort and heat dissipation. Worn underneath the Integrated Load Bearing Vest (iLBV), the hybrid uniform enables soldiers to sustain longer and perform better during operations and training. The key features of the hybrid uniform are as follows: 

a.    Flame Resistant. The high-performance fabric has self-extinguishing abilities and is resistant to catching fire. Hence, it does not melt or drip when exposed to extreme heat.

b.    Good Air Permeability. The high-performance fabric has a porous construction that allows air to flow through to provide better circulation. It is 1.4 times as permeable as the No.4 uniform.  

c.    Effective Wicking and Drying Properties.  The high-performance fabric absorbs perspiration and dries quickly. It is 1.6 times as effective in drying as the No.4 uniform.

Equipping Approach

Eligibility. The equipping of hybrid uniform began in January 2018 for our soldiers from Army combat units. These units are selected due to their physically-demanding and onerous mission profiles. Every soldier will be equipped with two pieces of the hybrid uniform.

Back-Equipping. The hybrid uniform is an enhancement to the No. 4 uniform. As the No. 4 uniform still meets the training requirements of operationally ready national servicemen during In-Camp Training, there are no plans to conduct the back-equipping of hybrid uniform for them. 

Dress Policy    

Hybrid uniform is designed to be worn with iLBV during outfield activities. Servicemen will still be required to don the No. 4 uniform for other routine activities. 

Replacement Approach

Servicemen will be able to replace their hybrid uniform at eMart outlets via credits or cash. Stock is being built up progressively for retail at eMart outlets.