Military clothing is the key to the high combat effectiveness of military forces. In Russia, the military uniform meets all the necessary requirements: it is comfortable, reliable and performs its main functions. A new military uniform in our country was released in 2015. Now every soldier of the military forces is equipped with it. Along with the new clothes, new rules for wearing them were issued, which must be followed by a soldier of any rank.
Military uniforms are divided into three main types:
- Ceremonial - used by soldiers during participation in ceremonial events (parades, military holidays, ceremonies for receiving military awards, etc.);
- Field - used during combat operations, service, providing assistance to civilians during natural disasters, etc.;
- Office - used in cases not falling into the first two categories.
Global reform of the Russian army uniform
The modern history of Russia includes several unsuccessful attempts to dress up military personnel. While in our country huge amounts of money were spent on unsuccessful attempts, in the US clothing was becoming better: comfort and performance characteristics were improved, innovative materials were used, etc.
The modern military uniform began its journey in 2007, when the post of Minister of Defense was held by Anatoly Serdyukov. A large-scale sketch competition was organized, in which thousands of designers from all over the country took part. The Ministry of Defense chose the sketches of the famous designer Valentin Yudashkin as the winner.
For the next 2 years, specialists were developing the final versions of a new army uniform, which was to be used for further equipment of the Russian Army. The result is a kit that is in many ways similar to American military clothing. The developers did not agree with this opinion, although many factors spoke in favor of this option.
military uniform caused particular dissatisfaction . It did not protect the soldiers from the cold. For this reason, the Ministry of Defense received many complaints every day about the poor quality of the winter kit. This led to an outbreak of colds among the military during one winter period. There were complaints about the appearance: numerous stylistic solutions were copied from kits from other countries. The stumbling block was the quality of the fabric and thread: new military clothing quickly became unusable.
Negative reviews and dissatisfaction among soldiers and army specialists forced the Ministry of Defense to think about changing the equipment. The decision to take American clothing as a basis was bad; such costumes did not suit the conditions of our country. The new set of military uniforms consisted of 19 parts. The approximate cost of one set is 35 thousand rubles. The ceremonial version did not suffer any special changes, since it is the field version that is of particular importance.
New field uniform
The first change that caught my eye was the change in the location of the shoulder straps . In 2010, the NATO version was proposed, the shoulder straps were located on the “belly”. Many servicemen did not like this, since they were “used to seeing shoulder straps on their shoulders.” The chevrons on the uniform are located on both sleeves. An addition was the appearance of fitted overcoats, quickly secured clothing items with Velcro. For the first time in history, Russian officers received warm sweaters . to completely replace foot wraps and boots .
Valentin Yudashkin began to be blamed for the failed project of a new military suit. In 2012, he spoke to journalists, telling them that the clothes were very different from his version. In particular, to reduce costs, materials were replaced with lower quality ones. Journalists came to the conclusion that all that remained of the designer’s version was the appearance.
of military uniforms was developed based on feedback from thousands of soldiers from across the country. The shape of the aircraft has become multi-layered. This allows each soldier to independently choose the necessary items of clothing, guided by the goals and objectives assigned to him, as well as weather conditions.
The modified set includes a basic suit , several types of jackets, boots for different seasons and much more, including a balaclava, a synthetic belt and quality socks . Military uniforms are made from mixed fabric, which includes 65% cotton and 35% polymer materials.
Russian military clothing at the end of 2015, as previously planned by the Ministry of Defense. The change of equipment took place in three stages. In 2013, 100 thousand new sets were issued, in 2014-400 thousand and in 2015-500 thousand. In 3 years, a million military personnel were provided.
The complete rejection of foot wraps deserved special attention. Modern images of military uniforms include 12 pairs of socks for one soldier, which he uses throughout the year. It is planned to soon increase the number of pairs per military man to 24.
Kits for wearing at different atmospheric temperatures
military uniform is presented in two sets:
- Basic uniform for wearing at temperatures above +15 degrees Celsius;
- Multi-layer system for wearing in temperatures from +15 to -40 degrees Celsius.
During the winter season, soldiers use lightweight or fleece underwear sets. They are used depending on temperature indicators. In particularly cold areas, both sets of underwear can be worn on top of each other.
For equipment in the summer, trousers , a jacket , a beret and boots . The surface of the clothing is carefully treated with an innovative solution that repels moisture. It allows clothes to remain dry in the rain for up to 2 hours. To protect against mechanical influences, military clothing is equipped with reinforcing elements. Such kits are used in parts with a high degree of load.
The rules for wearing military uniforms allow you to use a fleece jacket in the autumn season: excellent thermal insulation is provided by the pile with which it is covered on both sides. A windbreaker jacket, worn with 5th layer trousers, protects from strong winds.
For the autumn period, a demi-season military suit . The material from which it is made provides soldiers with reliable protection from the wind, provides a good degree of vapor permeability and dries quickly after getting wet. During heavy rainfalls, it is permissible to use a wind and water protection kit. The membrane and reliable sizing of the layers provide reliable protection from moisture.
In winter, insulated jackets and vests to protect against moisture and wind. Despite the high degree of frost protection, they are light and practical. At very low temperatures, wearing an insulated hat and balaclava .
VKPO kit
Currently, the army and navy have adopted the concept of multi-layer clothing, which is used in the temperature range from +15°C to -40°C and consists of:
Layer No. | Underwear | Outerwear clothing |
1 | Lightweight | — |
2 | Lightweight or fleece (insulated) | — |
3 | Lightweight or fleece (insulated) | fleece jacket, trousers, boots, cap. |
4 | Lightweight or fleece (insulated) | fleece jacket, trousers, boots, cap, windbreaker jacket. |
5 | Lightweight or fleece (insulated) | fleece jacket, trousers, boots, cap, demi-season suit. |
6 | Lightweight or fleece (insulated) | fleece jacket, trousers, boots, cap, windproof suit. |
7 | Lightweight or fleece (insulated) | fleece jacket, trousers, boots, insulated vest, balaclava, gloves. |
8 | Lightweight or fleece (insulated) | fleece jacket, insulated pants, insulated boots, hat, mittens, balaclava. |
Fleece underwear with lint inside can be worn over regular underwear in low temperatures. Underwear and jackets are made from breathable fabric that retains body heat, wicks away sweat and prevents cold from penetrating under clothing.
In places where increased loads are applied to the material, reinforcement components are inserted and additionally stitched.
For operations in conditions of rain and high humidity, a special suit is used, the fabric of which does not get wet and does not allow moisture to pass through, the seams are treated with glue.
In cold weather, use an insulated jacket with a hood, the fabric of which repels water, has windproof properties and retains heat.
The hat with earflaps has flaps that wrap under the chin, creating additional insulation for the face. It is allowed to wear a balaclava under a hat.
At temperatures above +15°C, use a lightweight version of underwear with short sleeves and shorts, and a summer field suit. Clothing absorbs sweat well, dries quickly, is breathable and is easy to wash.
Modern dress uniform
The basis of the dress uniform has not changed for many years, since the adopted look still meets all modern requirements and pays tribute to history. Some elements, due to their obsolescence, have been replaced in recent years. The dress uniform is used by the military at parades, military holidays, when receiving military awards, etc.
In the Russian army there are three approaches to the formation of such a set of uniforms:
- Traditional. The clothing sets include elements created in the 19th century. A good example is the ceremonial outfit of the Presidential Regiment of the Russian Federation - their costumes are identical to the Imperial Guard, which were adopted in 1907;
- Modern. The cut of the dress uniform corresponds to the daily set. The same colors may be used. For example, in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, the color of the ceremonial jacket coincides with the everyday ones. Casual elements are complemented by ceremonial elements;
- Universal. The color of a ceremonial suit can be the same as the everyday one, but the colors of the ceremonial elements must be different.
The dress uniform of the Russian army is divided into 2 groups:
- The honor guard formation is equipped with a uniform similar to that of the Imperial Guards;
- Military formations of the modern army of the Russian Federation. We apply a modern approach to clothing; some elements of the sets vary depending on the event and time of year.
The dress uniform must strictly meet the following standards:
- The style of the military uniform of military personnel of the Russian Army must be observed;
- A military suit for ceremonial purposes should be strict and elegant. Its shape should be such that all the features of the soldier’s body are emphasized;
- Only high-quality materials should be used in production.
Changes to the dress uniform are rarely made. The main style is determined by history. Various additional elements may change each year. Changing the materials used in production is acceptable if they improve the quality and performance characteristics of the suit.
The ceremonial attire of the generals deserves attention. It is also similar to a casual suit, but has a difference in color. The color of the ceremonial uniform is gray , worn with bluish trousers and black boots. stripes on the collar and cuffs.
Rank insignia on the suit and shoulder straps
All officers, regardless of rank, must have removable shoulder straps on their shoulders. They are attached to both winter and summer outfits. Also, shoulder straps are required to be worn by cadets undergoing training at military schools.
Depending on the rank, certain insignia are located on the shoulder straps. For senior officers, stars act as them. The corporal, sergeant and sergeant major have stripes on their shoulder straps. They are placed longitudinally and transversely. Also on the uniform there are sleeve and lapel insignia, indicating membership in a particular branch of the military.
On the field uniform there is a patch of the Russian Armed Forces on the right chest area. On the left are the initials and surname of the soldier. The color of the edging on such patches varies depending on the type of troops. For example, in VKS it has a blue color. Medals and badges of honor are worn in accordance with the order of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation.
Modern casual uniform
The color of the daily uniform depends on rank and affiliation. military clothing for generals and officers is olive, while in the Air Force it is blue. The caps match the color of the equipment. The color scheme was based on the 1988 model. Decorative elements on the caps are painted gold. Winter clothing for men has not changed since the last reform.
Girls in military uniform can now feel comfortable. Dresses and skirts comfortably fit the body, emphasizing feminine beauty. Women's military uniform - olive or blue. In the winter season, a short, fitted coat . Female sergeants and enlisted men wear an olive casual uniform. In the warm season, there should be a cap , in the winter - an astrakhan ticket, which was introduced with the latest reform.
Sergeants, soldiers and cadets are deprived of their daily uniform due to uselessness. As an alternative, they are encouraged to wear winter or summer field equipment.
The military uniform of this type in the winter includes a gray coat for military personnel ( blue the Air Force and Airborne Forces ). , a blue demi-season jacket is provided summer - an elongated raincoat that does not allow moisture to pass through. Black coloring for additional items of clothing ( belt , boots and socks ).
Modern office uniform
This set of clothing is a type of casual clothing, used by generals, officers and employees of the Ministry of Defense of certain ranks. A military suit of this type resembles the everyday clothes of the Ministry of Emergency Situations . The kit includes:
- Soft cap . All military units have a green beret, the airborne were left with a blue beret :
- cap -colored shirt with long or short sleeves (the choice depends on the weather). Shoulder straps shoulders with Velcro; a tie is not applicable;
- White T-shirt (wears under a shirt);
- Cap -colored trousers and shirts .
In the cold season, it is acceptable to use a warm jacket . It is possible to additionally attach a hood . The cap can be replaced with a warm hat with earflaps. straps are attached to the shoulders with Velcro.
Every year, office uniforms undergo minor changes, which are difficult to determine at first glance. This includes the introduction and abolition of various sewing, changing the shape of insignia, etc. It is prohibited to use an office suit as a field suit. Wearing a military uniform of this type should be careful so that it requires minimal care.
Air Force uniform for today
Uniforms for cadets and enlisted personnel
The summer version of the office uniform consists of a blue suit, a white T-shirt, a field cap, black high-top boots, black socks and a field cap. The winter version of the office uniform consists of a camouflage suit and T-shirt (T-shirt), a muffler and protective coat, a camouflage field cap, black boots or low shoes with black socks and camouflage gloves. In service, the uniform is completed with a black belt. Stripes on summer military uniforms are always placed on the left sleeve, on the outside. Stripes should only be placed on the jacket or coat.
Officer's uniform
The summer casual uniform consists of a blue jacket and trousers, and a blue shirt. Under the shirt goes a black tie with the obligatory gold tack. A blue or protective cap serves as a headdress. Shoes are required in black boots, low shoes or ankle boots with black socks. The uniform for the form is equipped with a black belt.
In winter, the uniform of Air Force officers consists of trousers and a blue or khaki jacket. Under the suit, a khaki or blue shirt with a black tie and gold pin is required. The outerwear is a gray or blue coat with a gray hat with earflaps. Gloves must be black. Under the coat - a protective or blue muffler. Shoes – low shoes, shoes or boots with black socks. The uniform for the formation is complemented by a black belt.
The charter allows the wearing of caps, caps or berets, raincoats and jackets in khaki or blue. In the winter version of the uniform, instead of a jacket, you can wear a blue or khaki sweater.
Senior officers uniform
The main difference between the winter uniform of senior officers is the presence of a gray astrakhan detachable collar and a gray hat.
Uniform of military personnel - women
The summer casual uniform of female military personnel consists of a skirt and jacket in blue or khaki, a blouse in khaki or blue, and a tie with a gold tack. As a headdress - a blue or protective cap. Shoes – shoes or boots of black or flesh color.
The winter office uniform is complemented by a khaki or blue muffler and a khaki coat. Headdress – gray astrakhan beret. The coat colors of officers and warrant officers are blue and gray.
Caring for military uniform
The rules for wearing military uniforms indicate that the suit must always be clean. To keep it that way, you need to know about some of the intricacies of washing it. Military uniforms require careful care. Improper washing or drying can ruin the appearance, which will lead to many problems in service. Before cleaning, you should read the information on the label.
It is recommended to wash woolen clothes by hand in warm water. If this is not possible, then you can use a washing machine, but the washing mode should be the most gentle. Military clothing sizes may become smaller if washed using hot water. It is prohibited to wring wool products.
Everyday military equipment is less demanding to care for. It can be cleaned in the washing machine in any mode using any powder. The suit also withstand water of any temperature. This is possible due to the use of high-quality materials in production.
It is not recommended to clean a beautiful dress uniform at home. It is better to entrust this process to professionals in the dry cleaning service. You need to know the types of military uniforms in order to choose the right method of care.
The new Russian military uniform , introduced into service in 2015, is superior to the previous generation in all respects. This became possible after refusing to copy American uniforms, which are unsuitable for use in the climatic conditions of our country. The military uniform of the Russian Federation is considered one of the best in the world. During special operations, it is supplemented with modern equipment, which increases the combat effectiveness of our soldiers.
What uniform will the unit be issued in 2021?
Young people who arrive at the place of further service are given additional “VKPO” uniforms, in other words, camouflage, which is significantly different from the uniform that is given to all conscripts at the assembly point.
The “office” version will have to be replaced with an all-season set of field uniforms, which will become the soldier’s usual clothing for the whole year.
The new models are made of high-quality material and can withstand many washes. Socks are also provided for issue.
The issued everyday uniform, in which the guy will arrive at the unit’s location, remains with him; it is in this uniform that the demobilized soldier will later go home, honestly repaying his debt to the Motherland. After a year of service, VKPO must be passed.