New Combat Uniform of Indian Army : Uniforms are one of the most distinguishing characteristics of any armed force. The uniform not only distinguishes civilians from military personnel and employees from different military units, but it also fosters teamwork, conformity, and discipline among the personnel. The new combat uniform for the Indian Army was officially launched during the celebrations of Army Day on January 15, 2022, which also included a parade and an address by Army Chief Gen M M Naravane.
New Combat Uniform of Indian Army: What distinguishes the new uniform from the Army’s previous uniform?
The main differences between the new uniform and the old one, which has been in use since 2008, are the camouflage pattern, design, and the use of a fresh material. While the fresh and innovative camouflage pattern uses the same colours — olive green and earthen tones — the pattern is now digital. It was designed with the various operational conditions that soldiers face in mind, such as desert areas, high-altitude regions, forests, and plains.
The fabric for the new material makes it softer, sturdier, more breathable, and better suited to the various terrains in which soldiers are stationed. The cotton-to-polyester ratio is 70:30, making it quick to dry, more comfortable to wear in humid and hot weather, and lightweight. It is a new-generation camouflage combat uniform that is ergonomically designed and operationally efficient. In comparison to the current uniform, the fabric is 15% lighter and has 23% more tearing resilience. The ergonomic features enable long-hour use and comfort, and micro features are built in for the wearer’s use in field conditions.
Unlike the old uniform, the new one has a combat T-shirt underneath and a shirt over it. In addition, unlike the previous uniform, the shirt will not be tucked in. The shirt has angular upper pockets, lower pockets with vertical openings, knife pleats at the back, a pouch on the left sleeve, a pen holder on the forearm, and higher-quality buttons.