PRACTICAL combat clothing and equipment is a vital requirement for soldiers in Australia's modern army with new developments improving operational effectiveness on a continual basis.

The Combat Clothing Unit (CCU) located at Victoria Barracks in Melbourne since September 2000 as part of Land Support Systems is the tri-service agency responsible for the design, development and implementation of ADF combat clothing.

OC CCU Maj Des Scheidl said the suitability of combat clothing included safety aspects such as flammability and ballistic integrity as well as overall protection, function and comfort.

"The extent that combat clothing fulfils its intended purpose determines the extent that the individual soldier can perform his or her intended roles," he said.

"CCU's responsibilities include the provision of independent technical advice, technical assessment, technical review, tender assessment, prototype development, configuration management and RODUM action on all ADF combat clothing and equipment.

"Additionally, the unit produces technical specifications and sealed samples which ensure the integrity of items contracted for production."

Maj Scheidl said the primary method for soldiers to have input regarding the design and modification of in-service and future clothing and equipment development was to raise a RODUM as a result of a defect or unsatisfactory performance.

"If a soldier has an issue with current in-service equipment or has an idea for a new item, they can contact CCU."

"CCU manning consists of a major and six technical staff offering different levels of expertise in design and development of several items that are integral to the soldier."

He said combat clothing had received a lot of attention in the past few years, particularly since the ADF deployed to East Timor.

"This has resulted in new equipment being issued to our deployed forces, including chest webbing and a new field pack.

"As combat clothing evolves, soldiers suggestions are vitally important if we are to develop and introduce capable and effective equipment."

Pte Alisha Carr