Norway’s Defence Materiel Agency (FMA) is developing a new version of the Nordic Combat Uniform (NCU) after soldiers in Finnmark reported problems. No production date has been set.
The light combat uniform gets a new fibre blend that fades less, and a roomier crotch to reduce tearing. Both fixes were developed with supplier Oskar Pedersen AS.
Ten soldiers from Porsanger Battalion and the GSV Ranger Battalion tested an improved heavy uniform this spring. They found it too hot, so ventilation openings have moved from the hips to under the arms. The hood was originally sized to fit over larger Finnish helmets. It is being redesigned for Norway, but no final solution has been chosen.
According to FMA, the new version will cost no more than the original. Dropping the hood pocket and inner pockets saves fabric.
Original uniforms will still be issued for now.
— Those who already have the original NCU uniform must expect to keep using it, says FMA project manager Veronica Eng.
Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark signed four national NCU contracts in February 2022, worth €425 million combined. Norway’s contract has a €150 million ceiling.