Quote:
Originally Posted by Alan O
The cost per item is outrageous compared to MTP. It's a very expensive and very nice kit and has been worn by Hereford for years. The RM are trying to rebrand themselves as SF and the Crye clothing fits the brand - same reason for buying the as the Di-marco instead of the SA80 - another lift from Hereford.
I suspect it also conceals the fact that the number of Royal Marines is far fewer than it was a few years ago. More 'elite' - but smaller.
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Alan, the L119A1 and then A2 (Diemaco C8SFW Carbine) was adopted by 43 Cdo (and then J Coy 42 Cdo) because the L85A2 and A3 (SA80) cannot fire either the simuntions used in training for their role or the ammunition needed (under modern H&S standards) for firing inside big metal or concrete boxes - i.e. 43 and Juliet's role. It's nothing to do with Hereford and only linked to Poole insofar as they cannot provide the manpower needed for MCT or VBSS operations due to other SF operational commitments. The other more 'speshul' units like the MLs, 148 Bty, MP CP and their army equivalents as well as purple outfits like SRR, DHU and so on always used either the HK53 or M16 back in the day anyway - plus they no longer have access to SMGs apart from the HK MP7 and need something more compact for covert carry...
Why the Corps needs Crye kit and new badges on the other hand is a whole different kettle of fish...