Field Gear for the Armed Forces of Ukraine: What They're Issued Ahead of Winter and Whether It Must Be Returned

Ukrainian servicemen receive special gear for rest in field conditions. The set includes a sleeping bag, an insulating mat, and a field seat, and the updated design of the sleeping bag allows using its components depending on the weather.

What is included in the field gear set According to NORM No. 1 orders of the Ministry of Defense No. 232, for most Ukrainian Armed Forces service members in conditions of special period are provided: a sleeping bag — one set for two years; a field insulating mat (cooking mat) — one piece for two years; a field insulating seat — one piece per year. This gear is issued regardless of whether the service member is serving under contract or has been mobilized. Although these items are not seasonal and can be used year-round, in winter it is especially important to use them together. The sleeping bag keeps warm during rest, the mat insulates from the cold and damp surface, and the field seat allows resting, alternating or working in the field without direct contact with the ground. What do military personnel receive for sleep and rest? (infographic: Ministry of Defense of Ukraine) What is the updated sleeping bag for the military? The Ministry of Defense updated the technical requirements for sleeping bags for the Armed Forces. The new model has a modular construction and consists of three parts: an inner sleeping bag; a hygienic insert; an outer water-repellent and vapor-permeable cover. The insert protects the sleeping bag from internal contamination and natural body moisture. The outer cover provides additional protection from rain, snow, fog, and wind. The components can be combined depending on temperature and usage conditions. For example, indoors the inner bag is sufficient, and in the open air you can use the full set. The sleeping system is made from three-layer fabric with a membrane that ensures vapor permeability and helps retain heat. For transport there is a compression sack: it allows compact packing of the sleeping bag and attaching it to a backpack together with the field insulating mat. What does a modern sleeping bag consist of? (infographic: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine) When is equipment replaced and whether it needs to be returned The sleeping bag, mat, and field seat are inventory property and tracked in the military unit. At the same time, the declared service life does not mean a service member must use damaged equipment until it ends. If an item becomes unusable, its condition is assessed by a commission of the military unit. After that, the property may be decommissioned and replaced. Upon discharge to reserve or retirement in a special period, the sleeping bag, insulating mat, and field seat that were in use by the service member remain with him. The exception are conscripts.

Recall that earlier the Ministry of Defense explained how service members can replace winter uniform or footwear of inadequate quality. If a defect is found during receipt of the property, it should be reported immediately to the warehouse staff. If the item was damaged during use, the service member must contact the immediate supervisor and the property service of the military unit. The Ministry of Defense also explained how the quality of winter boots for the Armed Forces is checked. The tests cover waterproofing, sole durability, wear resistance, protection from punctures, and retention of thermal insulation properties.