The RAF is challenging Space Force with their own Star Trek-looking uniforms

In September 2021, the US Space Force released their service dress uniform. Distinct from its Air Force origin, the Space Force uniform reflects the service’s Star Trek-esque Delta logo and looks like something from the world of science fiction. Across the pond, the British Royal Air Force is getting in on the sci-fi theme with their own uniform redesign.

An internal Ministry of Defence draft document revealed new utility and service dress uniforms for the RAF. The 15-page proposal noted that there was “need for a change” citing that the current uniform was last updated in the 1980s. It also critiqued the current uniform for being outdated, poor quality, and unsuitable for a modern fighting force. “The RAF has advanced significantly in many areas, but not this one,” the document stated.

The image shows three sets of Royal Air Force utility uniforms for both male and female personnel. 1. Utility (PCS Alt): A full-length outfit with a zip-up jacket featuring two chest pockets and matching trousers. Both male and female versions include a beret and black boots. 2. Utility 1/4 Zip: A similar full-length outfit with a quarter-zip pullover that has a large chest panel, paired with matching trousers, beret, and black boots. 3. Utility Polo: A short-sleeve polo shirt with a collar and RAF insignia, worn with matching trousers, beret, and black boots. Each set is displayed with a male figure on the left and a female figure on the right, all wearing belts and standing in a neutral pose. The image includes Royal Air Force branding and mentions the ASTRA Clothing Programme. — *The proposed RAF utility uniforms variants (MOD)*

A first draft of the proposed new uniform design was included in the document. The proposed utility uniform features a blue beret, blue cargo pants, an RAF belt, and black boots across its variations. Proposed tops include a utility shirt, utility 1/4 zip, utility polo, and long-sleeve smart utility shirt. Their appearances are similar between male and female variants, but tailored to suit the specific needs of the different genders. A GP jacket is also an option with the utility uniform

*The proposed GP jacket with the utility uniform (MOD)*

Meanwhile, draft images of the proposed service dress uniform appear slightly more traditional while still evoking a certain sci-fi aesthetic. Both male and female versions retain the beret from the utility uniform and feature a long-sleeve button-down shirt with collar and shoulder ranks. While both versions also utilize an RAF belt, the male uniform depicts trousers and shoes while the female version has a skirt and heels with an option for trousers and shoes.

*The proposed male service dress uniform (MOD)*

The new uniforms have gained much attention on the internet with many likening them to fictitious uniforms like those found in Star Trek, Thunderbirds, and Starship Troopers. “We are in the very early stages of exploring possible changes to uniform to ensure it meets the requirements of our next generation Royal Air Force and are considering a number of options,” an RAF spokesperson said in a press release, “however, no decisions have been made.”