Soldier allowed gear with no arms (5)

I believe the answer is:

gilet

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'gear with no arms' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'soldier allowed' is the wordplay.
'soldier' becomes 'gi' (term for US soldier).
'allowed' becomes 'let' (to let is to allow or permit).
'gi'+'let'='GILET'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for gilet that I've seen before include "Sleeveless padded jacket" , "apparel" , "Type of jacket" , "Waistcoat" , "Body-warmer" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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