Rebecca Ricks

Women serving in the UK armed forces report that body armour and other kit still do not fit properly despite recommendations made in the 2021 Atherton report. Veterans and current personnel describe safety concerns, shortages of smaller sizes, and the inadequacy of flat ballistic plates designed for male body shapes. While the Ministry of Defence introduced updated body armour in 2022 and is supplying curved plates to Ukrainian forces, UK servicewomen do not yet have access to curved designs. Experts and former service members say progress has been inconsistent and slow, affecting safety and recruitment goals. The MoD plans to introduce new flat plates in 2028 and curved options from 2029.