Monday, September 23, 2013

Camouflage: Japanese Ground Self-Defence Forces


The Japanese Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) is the Army of Japan in all but name(which is directed by the Japanese constitution). In 1985 this camouflage pattern, a 4 color variation of the German Flecktarn, was introduced as standard issue. This camo is presented in two cuts, summer and winter weight, with the only differences being fabric thickness and the addition of vent panels on the shoulder blades of the blouse for the summer weight. An addition variation exists only for the winter field jackets and gortex gear, these feature more brown in the pattern then the standard variation. Theoretically this simulates the absence of foliage, which is typical for the winter season. There is no Desert version of this Camouflage.
Overall I really like this camo, it suits the green non urban zones of Japan and would be well suited in many other woodland regions of the world. However, due to the limited GOV only issue of these camies it is nearly impossible to get your hands on an authentic set unless you are willing to settle for chinese knock offs. I was lucky enough to find one of my coworkers who was a JGSDF reservist and now this camo mixed with German Flecktarn are my forest go to camies.

Additional Resources:
Flecktarn
Kamouflage.net Article
Japan


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