The National Guard plans to equip all its reservists with modern personal combat equipment matching the gear already issued to active duty forces, according to discussions at the Parliamentary Defence Committee’s final 2025 session.
All National Guard reservists will gradually receive new combat helmets, battle vests, combat backpacks and protective eyewear as part of the operational upgrade programme, philenews has learnt.
The Defence Ministry has already signed a contract with Israeli companies Source Vagabond and Marom Dolphin to supply the equipment, which has been issued to active duty personnel.
The contract provides for annual deliveries of specific quantities, intending to gradually replace existing materiel across the entire reserve force.
Special forces reservists and units with critical operational roles will receive priority, whilst planning indicates the entire reserve force will have new personal equipment within five years.
The decision has been made, and implementation is expected to begin shortly, according to sources.
The National Guard has also requested canvas camping and field living materials from the United States through the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) programme to support personnel during exercises and operational activities.
The request includes tents of various types (individual, group and administrative use), sleeping bags, sleeping mats, tarpaulins and protective covers, as well as accessories such as straps, ropes and stakes.
It also includes camouflage nets and auxiliary equipment used for setting up temporary shelters and improving field living conditions.
