Khaki military uniform. Protective color in clothing

Modern camouflages: principles of creation, varieties, prospects

Part 1. General principles. Russian camouflages

Almost all modern armies are supplied with uniforms intended for use directly on the battlefield - field uniforms. Most armies in the world have this uniform in camouflage coloring. This material provides an overview of the main camouflage colors currently used in various armies of the world.

It should also be noted that this material does not discuss the cut of uniforms, the quality characteristics of the fabric, and similar issues. The subject of consideration is exclusively the texture and color scheme used in camouflage.

Let me make a reservation right away that the material does not cover everything, but only the main and most common camouflages; also the topic of camouflages of the 1940s and earlier camouflages (of which there were quite a lot) is not disclosed; the topic of special (for example, urban, “hunting” or winter) colors is also not touched upon, since it is not possible to cover this entire volume within one material in the format of an article.

Basics of Camouflage Pattern Construction

Camouflage, or camouflage colors, serves the purpose of camouflaging the object on which it is applied. In this case, camouflage means reducing the contrast visibility of an object in the optical range in order to make it difficult to identify the object.
To achieve this goal, camouflage has two functions:
1. Deforming The function of camouflage is to violate the integrity of the perception of an object.
2. Imitation The function of camouflage is to ensure that the object is inseparable from the background.

The deforming function is implemented in modern camouflages primarily by breaking the silhouette of an object into a number of contrasting color spots. Imitation is implemented through the use of a color scheme similar to that characteristic of the area where camouflage is supposed to be used, and in the optimal form - through the imitation of natural objects (leaves, grass, areas of tree bark, stones, etc.), characteristic of of this area.

Rice. 1. Illustration of the operation of the camouflage simulation function. Hunting camouflage

Rice. 2. Illustration of the action of the deforming function of camouflage. Camouflage A-Tax

The difficulty of creating effective camouflage is that when implementing the first function, it is optimal to use large color spots (they break up the silhouette better, since they do not “merge” into a single color at medium and long distances), and when implementing the second function, it is optimal to use image of static natural objects on a scale of 1:1, that is, as a rule, small leaves, grass stems, etc. This creates a contradiction that different developers solve in different ways. For example, in “hunting” types of camouflages, the deforming function is completely sacrificed to the imitation function - usually “hunting” camouflages represent a full-scale image of those natural objects where hunting is expected. In the Russian “Gorka” (its classic version), on the contrary, the imitation function is expressed much weaker than the deforming one: the imitation function consists only of the use of appropriate colors, while the deforming one is implemented in the form of the use of large-area overlay elements.

A few words about the colors of camouflage schemes. There are two general requirements to the colors used in creating camouflages:

1. The color must match the dominant/frequently occurring color in the area where the camouflage is intended to be used.
2. The color should be “unpleasant” to the human eye; the gaze should not intuitively stop at an object of that color.

That is why camouflage colors usually use dull, faded light brown, moderate gray and dark green colors; at the same time, for example, light green color Although it is widespread in nature, it is poorly suited for use in camouflage due to its brightness. The most commonly used colors in camouflage are: khaki, olive, marsh, dark and light brown, gray, black.

Short review history of the issue

Before the advent of mass-produced hand-held firearms that were effective over significant distances, the task of visually concealing one’s troops was less relevant than the opposite task - good visibility of one’s troops for a military leader. Due to the extremely limited means of tactical communication (in fact, there were no other means of communication except messengers), it was vital for the commander to observe the disposition and maneuver of his own troops, which is why it seemed advisable for these troops to use bright uniforms that were visible at a considerable distance. Often these uniforms had the colors of the national flags in one combination or another, and also differed in color among different units. The task of camouflaging individual soldiers was not highly relevant, because the main type of combat remained hand-to-hand; fire contact took place at an insignificant distance, at which the enemy soldier was visible regardless of the color of his uniform. In addition, the use of linear tactics and linear infantry formation made it absolutely pointless to use any camouflage clothing (it is difficult not to notice a dense line of 50 soldiers along the front at shotgun range, even if they were dressed in the most effective camouflage).

However, even in the era of the dominance of smooth-bore weapons and linear tactics, camouflage was still used by individual units, primarily by huntsmen. The tactics of the rangers were somewhat similar to the tactics of modern infantry units (loose formation, use of natural shelters), and their weapons (rifled fittings with an effective range of up to 200-250 m.) made it possible to fire beyond the reach of enemy line infantry fire - but in the event of an attack the enemy's linear infantry (and even more so cavalry), the rangers were doomed. In addition, the rangers were vulnerable to fire from the same rangers from the “other” side. That is why it was among the rangers that the first developments appeared, designed to reduce the visual visibility of the shooter - one might say, the first camouflage. In all European armies, chasseurs, unlike line infantry, wore black, dark green and dark gray uniforms, and their headdresses did not have decorations or clearly visible emblems. Suvorov's instructions are widely known, instructing rangers to use plucked tree branches with leaves to enhance camouflage - a technique that works well in our time.

The situation with uniforms changed when, in the middle of the 19th century, rapid-fire rifled small arms began to enter service en masse, increasing the range of fire contact several times. It is generally accepted that the British were the first to move from the concept of a bright uniform to the concept of visual invisibility of a soldier during the Anglo-Boer War, because The bright red uniforms of the British were an excellent target for the Boer riflemen (who wore civilian clothes in dull “Protestant” shades). It was then that the British adopted a khaki-colored uniform for supply (khaki in Hindi means “dusty-earthy”), and seriously reduced the visibility of their soldiers. However, this version hardly withstands factual criticism, because dark green uniforms without decorations appeared in the army Russian Empire as a field uniform 10 years before the British encountered the Boers.

However, most European armies changed into uniforms of “protective” shades precisely in the second half of the 19th century and precisely taking into account the English experience. Research has been conducted in several countries to determine the most suitable and versatile camouflage color. The results, however, were different: Russia, England and Japan dressed the soldiers in khaki, France and Austria-Hungary - in sky blue, and Germany - in dark gray. These countries took part in the First World War in such uniforms.

At the same time, during the First World War, the first spotted camouflage of the modern type appeared. It became the German “fragmented camouflage”, so named because of the broken lines that delimit the color spots. Initially, this camouflage was used only on helmets, and these were not fabric covers, but simply paint applied to the metal of the helmet.

Camouflage received further development during the Second World War, and this time in its modern form - as the coloring of field uniforms. Initially, only samples of special shapes were produced camouflaged, i.e. camouflage suits and capes; however, by 1944, regular camouflage uniforms also appeared. Largest quantity Variants of camouflage during WWII appeared in the USSR and Germany, and in the USSR they emphasized the use of special sniper raincoats and camouflage overalls, and in Germany - directly on the uniforms of military personnel (mainly camouflage uniforms in Germany were worn by units of SS field units).

The main development of camouflage colors of field uniforms was already in the post-war years, especially from the 1970s to the present. It is modern camouflages that will become the main subject of consideration in this article.

Modern camouflages of Russia

In this material, modern Russian camouflages mean not only those samples that are in production and supplied to the Armed Forces and other law enforcement agencies of the Russian Federation, but also those that are actively used by military personnel and employees of other law enforcement agencies. Among these camouflages, technically there are camouflages created in the USSR - within the framework of this material they are classified as “Russia”. Foreign-designed camouflages, also actively used by Russian security forces, are discussed in sections dedicated to the relevant countries.

KZS/Coloring-57

Historically, the first modern camouflage can be called a color scheme that has several names, the most common of which is “KZS”. It should be noted that KZS stands for “protective mesh suit”, and is not the name of the color, but the name of the product painted in this color. It is believed that the official name of the camouflage is “1957 pattern”, but this name is used quite rarely. Sometimes this color is unofficially called “Birch”, but such a name cannot serve as a unique name, because “Berezka” is also unofficially called another camouflage - VSR-93. Also, this coloring is sometimes called “border camouflage”, because... For a long time it was supplied exclusively to the Border Troops of the KGB of the USSR.

Rice. 3. Color arr. 1957 (KZS), “Silver Leaf” option

This coloring exists in two variants while maintaining the same textural scheme: in one of the variants, the small spots have a gray-silver color, in the other (it was the one that was supplied to the border troops) - sand or khaki. The background color of both variants is olive; sometimes there are swamp-colored specimens. In any case, the background in this color scheme is always darker than the spots. The spots themselves have an “angular” structure, consisting of many squares.

It should be noted that this color scheme, although considered “morally outdated” by some experts, performs both functions quite well - deforming and imitation.

Rice. 4. Fighter in the KZS on the ground

"Butane"

This camouflage was developed in the USSR in the 1980s as the main pattern for field uniforms. Despite the production of a significant number of products from it, it was not particularly widespread among the troops, although it was quite effective. Currently found in the Russian Aerospace Forces and the Armed Forces of Ukraine (in Ukraine for a long time it was the main camouflage), but in both cases it is being actively removed from supply, being replaced by other models.

Rice. 5. Camouflage "Bhutan"

Other names for this camouflage are “Oak” and “Amoeba”, and “Amoeba” is also the name of one of the camouflages from the Second World War. The colors themselves can vary, only the scheme remains unchanged: a light green background, dark green spots and light brown amoeba-shaped intersecting ribbons.

In the 1990s, in many parts of the RF Armed Forces there was a situation where officers wore “Butan”, and privates and non-commissioned officers wore VSR-93, so in the 1990s this camouflage was sometimes called “officer.”

VSR-93

Developed in the early 1990s, accepted for supply in 1993, replacing the ubiquitous khaki Afghan. When creating this camouflage, the experience of WWII camouflages, in particular, a number of German camouflages, was taken into account.

Rice. 6. VSR-93

Quite often unofficially called “Berezka”, just like KZS. It was believed that the semi-official name of the VSR-93 was “Barvikha”, but this name does not appear in official documents. Also sometimes called "Watermelon" (or "Vertical Watermelon"), however "Watermelon" also applies to the VSR-98.

According to reviews of those wearing a uniform of this color, it is “very good to lie in,” because longitudinal spots very effectively imitate grass vegetation. However, camouflage, according to experts, is too highly specialized and is not universal and applicable to any terrain. In addition, there is information that this type of color “created an unsightly appearance for military personnel at parades,” so in 1998, products of this color were removed from supply.

VSR-98 "Flora"

Accepted for supply to the RF Armed Forces as the main one in 1998, it replaced the VSR-93. When developing this camouflage, the results of a study of the dynamic efficiency of camouflage were taken into account, that is, the ability of camouflage not to lose its functions when an object moves. According to the study, horizontal stripes help maintain camouflage functions when an object moves, while vertical stripes, on the contrary, unmask when moving.

Unlike previous camouflages, VSR-98 has not only a digital code, but also an official name - “Flora”, however, unofficially, like VSR-93, it was called “Watermelon” or “Horizontal Watermelon” in the army.

Rice. 7. VSR-98 "Flora"

There is a Flora color scheme in which the background is not light green, but dark yellow, sand or khaki. Such color schemes were popular among the troops of the North Caucasian Federal District, where the grass fades already in June and, accordingly, remains yellowish throughout the summer. Officially, "Flora" was withdrawn from supply in 2009 (according to other sources, in 2011), giving way to a more modern color scheme.

EMR/ZDU/Ruspat/Russian figure/Russian pixel

This camouflage appeared in 2008 (accepted for supply a year later), after a fundamental decision was made to change the “Flora”. Initially, it was assumed that since “Flora” roughly corresponds to the American “Woodland”, which in the US Armed Forces is actively changing to “digital” camouflages (see below), then the Russian Armed Forces should keep up with this process. The creation of the EMR was actively influenced by the German camouflage “Flektarn”, the developers of which managed to “combine the incompatible”: small spots that perform an imitation function are combined in this color scheme so that they form groups of large spots that perform a deforming function. The developers of EMP followed the same path, taking into account the results of studies that showed the effectiveness of extremely small (“pixel”) spots as constituent elements of a texture pattern (see derivatives from “Marpat”). The result was "EMP".

Rice. 8. EMP in two colors

The name “EMP” stands for “Unified Camouflage Pattern” - this is the name under which this camouflage is supplied to the RF Armed Forces. However, it is known that the first manufacturer of products with this color gave it the name “ZDU” - “protection to the limit.” In the West, this camouflage is known as “Ruspat” (Russian Pattern) by analogy with the American pats. Also unofficially, this camouflage is called “Russian Number”, “Russian Pixel” or (in military usage) simply “Pixel”.
Currently, EMR is the main camouflage used by the Russian Armed Forces. Interestingly, it is also supplied to the Belarusian Armed Forces, but it is believed that the Belarusian version of the EMR has a slightly different color scheme.

"Undergrowth"

Created in the early 1990s at the St. Petersburg NPO Spetsmaterialy as an alternative to the VSR-93 for adoption by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. When creating it, the same principles were followed as in VSR-93, however, the vertical stripes were made more angular, the brown color was replaced by black, and the base was made lighter than in VSR-93. When creating “Undergrowth”, it was taken into account that vertical stripes visually increase the height of a person in such camouflage, which is relevant for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, because an employee in a similar form provides additional psychological impact on detainees.

Rice. 9. "Undergrowth"

Officially it was supplied to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and was actively used by various units of the Special Forces.

"Raster undergrowth"/"Raster"

It was created at the same NPO “Special Materials”. It represents the first “dual-frequency” camouflage pattern in the practice of creating camouflage colors. The fact is that the original “Undergrowth” had a good imitation, but rather weak deforming effect, and therefore, when creating its improved version (“Rastra”), it was as if they superimposed on the original “Undergrowth” in a special way a twisted brown mesh network - the result is “double camouflage” or “camouflage on camouflage”.

Fig. 10. "Raster undergrowth"

As a result, the original drawing of the “Undergrowth” is perceived by the eye as if at one frequency, and the superimposed “raster” network - at another, which contributes to the impossibility of intuitive perception of a person in such camouflage as an integral object. There is even a common rumor that if you just walk down the street in “Rastra”, you will not attract anyone’s attention - the gaze of passers-by will simply slide past. This discovery of Special Materials specialists was subsequently used by the Americans to create a series of Cryptek camouflages, but more on that below.

Another name for “Rastra” is “Pheasant”, but it is used for products produced in this color not directly by NPO Spetsmaterialy, but by other manufacturers. Raster camouflage is also officially supplied to the Ministry of Internal Affairs. For some unknown reason, however, it was not widely used.

"Tiger" / "Reed"

Strictly speaking, this camouflage, although produced in the Russian Federation on an industrial scale by various companies and, moreover, is widely used in various law enforcement agencies, is not a Russian development - it is rather an “adaptation” of an existing foreign camouflage (originally the Malaysian commercial Tiger Stripe) to Russian conditions.

Rice. 11. Camouflage "Tiger" of one of the Russian variants

The color scheme, traditionally for Russian camouflages, can be changed by turning the light green base into sand or khaki.

If the “Tiger” was the result of a deliberate alteration of an existing foreign analogue, then the “Kamysh” appeared due to an accident when the manufacturer mistakenly sewed the uniform so that the stripes of the “Tiger” turned out to be vertical. However, the classic “Tiger” is often called “Kamysh”.

Officially it was never in supply, unofficially it is used by all law enforcement agencies, although now its popularity is falling due to the advent of more effective colors.

"Partisan"

Commercial camouflage, not officially available anywhere. Unofficially, it is very popular, especially in the North Caucasus Federal District, where its yellow-brown deforming stripes are very relevant against the background of the scorched most of warm season herbs. Created under the influence of German camouflages from WWII (almost exactly copies one of them), that is why it is called “Partisan” - because, as far as we know, initially its creators, without particularly “bothering” with coming up with a name, planned to call it “SS camouflage” "

Rice. 12. Camouflage "Partisan"

In the European part of Russia, this camouflage is very effective in August-September. The rest of the time it has an excellent deforming, but controversial imitation function.

"Kink" / "Chip"

Another commercial camouflage, unofficially not in supply, but very actively used in various law enforcement agencies. It is known that a number of units (not units, but units) of the Special Forces, both army and explosives, prefer the uniform of this particular color.

Fig. 13. Camouflage "Kink"

When creating “Kink,” the experience of “Flektarn” was used, as in the case of EMR. Interestingly, “Kink” has such a specific location and color combination of spots that it creates the illusion of three-dimensionality of smooth fabric, and, accordingly, has a very good deformation effect. Unlike most Russian camouflages, Izlom does not allow the use of colors other than the original ones.
As with Partizan, it is believed that this camouflage is effective mainly in August and September.

Surpat

Developed by the Russian company “Survival Corps” by order of employees of special forces units. It is an adaptation of the American “pattern” scheme to Russian conditions.

Rice. 14. Surpat

Unlike the original (American “pattern” camouflages), Surpat uses light gray as a base; the location of the spots has been changed; brown and green colors are as close as possible to the color scheme characteristic of the Russian landscape. Despite this, it is distinguished by significant versatility in relation to terrain - tests carried out by Survival Corps themselves showed Surpat’s performance in almost any natural area.

There is no official information about the use of Surpat in any units of the Armed Forces or the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation, but sometimes on documentary materials you can see military personnel in this camouflage.

Range

Another adaptation of “patterns” to Russian conditions. It has slightly less versatility compared to Surpat, however, in comparison with it, it has a slightly better imitation effect in forest landscape conditions.

Rice. 15. Spectrum

There is also a “Spectrum-SKFO” version, where the color scheme is adjusted towards “yellowness”. Unlike Surpat, it is widely produced by several manufacturers. It is interesting that it was “Spectrum” that was personally used by I. Strelkov and his unit.

Dusk

Initially created as a hunting, exclusively commercial camouflage. Like most hunting camouflages, it was intended for very narrow conditions: rocky surface with moss, morning and evening time of day. However, it unexpectedly turned out that this camouflage performs quite well in a much wider range of conditions than those for which it was created, which is why it has become very widespread.

Fig. 16. Dusk

It is not officially employed anywhere in the supply chain, but is unofficially used by some departments and individual employees. Russian companies also produce a wide range of Western-designed camouflages, but they will be discussed in the sections of the countries where they were created.

The next part of the material will be devoted to the consideration of camouflages of Anglo-Saxon countries.

Camouflage (from the French camouflage - “camouflage”) is a camouflage coloring used to reduce the visibility of personnel, weapons, military equipment and structures by breaking up silhouettes or objects.

Today, camouflage colors are used not only in the ranks of active military units, but also in everyday life. Tourists and hunters also wear protective clothing so as not to stand out in natural conditions.

Camouflage color in military service

Field military uniforms began to be purposefully sewn from fabrics of protective camouflage colors at the end of the 19th century. So, to end of the 19th century centuries, British colonial troops in India adopted the color "khaki", which means "color of dust" in Persian. The khaki military uniform performed well on the battlefields of South Africa. Then the rest of the world’s armies, including Russian ones, began to use it. They met the First World War already in it.

Later in 1909, the American artist Abbott Thayer published the book “Color in the Animal Kingdom.” Much of what was described in it formed the basis of the theory of scientific mimicry, after which the development of camouflage principles for the military began.

During World War I, British artist and naval officer Norman Wilkinson developed a special camouflage scheme for the navy, the so-called “blinding camouflage” (or “deforming camouflage”). Such a gray color did not hide the ships, but made it difficult to calculate the distances to them, as well as courses and speeds.

In 1939, French artist Vladimir Baranov-Rossinet patented a spotted military uniform called "pointillist-dynamic camouflage" or "chameleon method".

It should be borne in mind that most of the concepts of army camouflages were developed for the specific terrain in which the military was located. At the same time, the regulatory requirements for camouflage in open areas were taken into account. The studies were carried out during daylight hours. As a result, many armies of the world decided to use camouflage patterns in the production of military equipment to save personnel during combat clashes.

Modern pixel camouflage

Since 1984, they began to use camouflage called “digital”. This camouflage coloring is similar to the pixels of monitor screens. Such patterns prevent the eyes from fixating on objects, causing them to be perceived as “white noise”, and by analogy with blinding camouflage, this interferes with the determination of shapes and speed of movement.

Previously, countries had different approaches to camouflage uniforms; today there is a general tendency for armies to have one universal pattern. Refinement is carried out only taking into account different types of terrain. Thus, ACUPAT camouflages are available in different colors (such as “desert”, “urban” and “forest”, or the basic “urban” - urban gray version), Flektarn, DPM and others.

Sometimes individual army units may have their own pattern, but even in such cases the same trends are noticeable. For example, the MARPAT used by the American Marines, although different from the uniform ACUPAT patterns used by other units, also has several color schemes. They are used to suit the terrain and are the basic "woodland" field camouflage - a forest pattern with green and brown tones.

Digital Russian camouflage is currently considered to be “digital flora”. In Western qualifications, this camouflage is called Russian Pattern, and in the army environment it is known as “Pixel”. This camouflage was developed in 2008, and was accepted for supply to the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Internal Affairs a year later, after the fundamental decision was made to replace “Flora”.

Over the years of history from Soviet Union Before modern Russia, the following types of camouflage were developed for the army:

• "Amoeba". Camouflage pattern 1935. Manufactured in several versions;
• "Deciduous Forest" model 1942;
• "Palm". Deforming pattern from 1944. Produced in four versions according to the seasons;
• "Silver leaf" model 1957. It was also called “Birch” or “sunny bunnies”, as well as the camouflage of border guards;
• “Butane”, which has another name “Oak”. Was developed in 1984;
• Russian camouflage pattern of 1993 - VSR-93, also called “vertical”;
• Russian camouflage pattern of 1998 - VSR-98 Flora. This has been the main Russian combined arms camouflage pattern since 1998. Despite its low attractiveness, this type of camouflage did a very good job of camouflaging military personnel in Russian areas. middle zone. Possessing some characteristic stripes, “Flora” received the nickname “watermelon” camouflage. It was produced in three versions;
• Digital Russian camouflage. “Digital Flora” is currently the new pixel camouflage in the Russian Armed Forces.

In addition, there are commercial types of camouflage, such as:

• "Tiger". Green-brown horizontal stains;
• "Reeds". Sandy-brown color imitating reeds;
• "Partisan". Green form with yellow spots;
• "Kink." Three-color deciduous forest imitation;
• "Skol." Dark version of green camouflage;
• "Surpat". Pixel camouflage for different terrains;
• "Range". Dominant color green;
• "Dusk". Suit with gray splashes, suitable for urban environments.

Most of these types of camouflages are not officially supplied anywhere. However, they have found unofficial use in certain departments and among individual employees. Specialized Russian companies and continue to produce a wide range of camouflage workwear developed by Western companies. In addition, modern Russian military science and industry do not stand still, all the time improving the protective functions of the suits currently available, as well as developing more and more new types of camouflages that would fully meet the new realities.

Use of camouflage by paramilitary organizations

A wide variety of legal and illegal paramilitary groups from different countries use camouflages in uniforms and other types of clothing, equipment, and for painting vehicles. In our country there are also many such paramilitary or police organizations and formations. For example, camouflage is widely used by intelligence services, special forces, the well-known riot police, federal law enforcement agencies, as well as private security agencies.

Camouflage suits in everyday life

In the 1960s, camouflage became widespread in American civilian clothing as a civil protest against the war. Young people in military uniform on the city streets tried to make the townspeople feel what it was like when there were street battles and soldiers walking on your streets. This trend quickly passed, but was resurrected in the 1980s and gained unprecedented popularity already in the 1990s during Operation Desert Storm.

The fashion industry began producing pseudo-war paint, but using softer materials. Many famous fashion designers of that time approached the camouflage cut in different ways. They started to move the elements military uniform even on women's skirts and dresses. Camouflage has become an integral part of sportswear.

The fashion industry began to produce:

• Women's camouflage;
• Urban camouflage;
• Green camouflage;
• Fashionable camouflage pants;
• Camouflage pants and jeans;
• And even camouflage workwear.

It is clear that winter camouflage and summer camouflage began to enjoy considerable popularity among people leading an active lifestyle. Hunters, fishermen, black diggers, as well as many tourists began to stock up on comfortable clothing in special colors. Colors that imitate wild African fauna, such as leopard or zebra, have become fashionable.

If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below the article. We or our visitors will be happy to answer them

Unfortunately, the arms race to create a camouflage pattern that would work was doomed to failure. In 2012 The Daily called it the “5 billion snafu” (SNAFU is an acronym that can be literally translated as “the situation is under control: everything is flying to ...”). The above race, officially called the Army's Camouflage Improvement Effort, solicited camouflages from hundreds of designers from which four finalists were selected. Four years (and millions of dollars) later, the Army appears to have decided on a winner.

Four final camouflages have been createdBrookwoodCryPrecisionKryptek andA.D.S.Inc. WithGuyCramer

The delays did not stop there. According to the latest rumors, they decided to cancel the entire camouflage masquerade. However, the Army simply accepted MultiCam, a digital camouflage pattern made by Crye Precision, as a stopgap option, thereby acknowledging that universal camouflage did not work as intended.

The tale takes a long time to tell, but it doesn’t take long for the deed to be done. In December, Congress introduced a bill that would block the entire army unless it passes new project camouflage By 2018, the same bill would block the entire Department of Defense. Politicians seem tired of wasting money on endless problems. Press secretary William Laer, in response to questions about what was happening, could only say that “the army is weighing various options and taking into account legal restrictions.”

Buried among the accusations of incompetence and bureaucratic red tape is the fact that military technology is developing extremely quickly, and no one can predict for sure what kind of camouflage will be needed tomorrow. The growing field of military science, despite all the dust in our eyes, is still very young. And billions of dollars thrown down the drain do not bring the expected effect.

History of Invisibility

Modern camouflages have a relatively short history. When modern warfare began (18th century), that is, when the long-range rifle appeared, dark green or gray camouflages came into fashion. By the beginning of the First World War full height experimented with “blinding”, that is, making it difficult to catch a target, then a ship, at a distance. Soon the technology was widely used by people.

World War I soldier, 1917

At the dawn of World War II, the distinctive modern camouflages with kidney-shaped spots emerged and quickly spread throughout the world. By the end of the war, artists were even experimenting with optical models that could trick the eye, borrowing ideas from Cubism and Op Art.

In the late 1970s, the US Army introduced a new and unpopular pattern called "double texture", which marked the beginning of the "digital" camouflage of today. Dual-Tex used perfect colored squares to imitate two patterns at once: one large and one large, effective at different distances.

World War II Soldier

By 1990, the development of patterns on the computer began, and with it a revival of scientific research. American officer Timothy O'Neill, the "grandfather of modern camouflage", developed small colored squares on camouflage that could deceive the eye looking at a soldier or a truck by blending them into the background scene.

Why do pixels work better than traditional bubbles? Because pixels are better at simulating fractal patterns, which our eyes interpret as white noise. If you look at such “digital” camouflage, your eyes simply have nothing to fixate on.

Dual-tex camouflage

However, the eye is a complex anatomical object, and it is simply impossible to recreate one optical trick for millions of soldiers in an infinite number of conditions. As a result, a cottage industry of independent contractors and engineers grew, with each submitting their own unique camouflage pattern, including the four finalists in the competition.

Find the people in the photo below.

Some of these companies declined to comment when Gizmodo indicated it wanted to talk to them, likely because the announcement of the winner is still a while away. However, Guy Kramer, CEO of Hyperstealth Biotechnology Corp., designer of camouflage for the armies in Jordan and Afghanistan, and one of the four finalists in the competition, was kind enough to answer some questions.

Taking advantage of visual impairments

As Kramer explained, digital camouflages attempt to use advanced optical tricks to confuse the brain and release the body from the target, rather than simply "blend" it into the surrounding scenery. "You can't just throw paint on a wall and call it camouflage," he says. “We're not trying to create randomness. We want the brain to interpret the pattern as part of the background."

This kind of visual trickery is a difficult task. It includes ideas about the science of color, the anatomy of the human eye, and even the logistics of creating a pattern. And she's still not perfect. Let's look at the most interesting failure of the American army: the UCP.

Actually,UCP

All digital camouflages consist of two layers: micropatterns (pixels) and macropatterns (shapes of combining pixels). If the scale of macropatterns is too small - as happened with UCP - there will be optical phenomenon called isolumination, painting a carefully constructed camouflage pattern in a mass of bright color. In other words, such a suit can be easily seen from a distance. As you can see, this has become one of the UCP's biggest problems.

What about color? In 2004, when the U.S. Army introduced the UCP, it was discovered that there was not a drop of black in the entire pattern. The fact is that black does not occur in nature - this is how they explained official representatives. But Kramer completely disagrees. Black and brown are needed to simulate shadow. Kramer's final painting in the competition included a "brightness edge", a thin black line along macro and micro patterns that tricks the eye by hiding shapes.

"If you don't have at least a percentage of that in the camo, it will look flat because there's no depth effect," Kramer explained. - “It was a good lesson.”

Economies of Scale

There are now more than half a million soldiers in the US Army, and printing and sewing a uniform for each of them is a difficult task in itself. It is also important that the camouflage “breaks up” the contour of the soldier’s body in places such as the wrists, knees and ankle joints.

Like the tiger's stripes running perpendicular to their limbs, these visual "breaks" help hide the anatomy of the human target. When roll camouflage fabric will be cut into millions of uniforms, it may be difficult to predict exactly where those splits will end up.

Example of isolumination

In addition, our brains are very good at recognizing patterns - if we see the same shape twice, we immediately know that something has happened. It is extremely important that the left and right parts of a single picture do not coincide. “A lot of patterns have this problem,” Kramer says. “The brain will see an abnormality on the right side of the chest, and if it sees a very similar pattern on the left side of the chest, it will immediately connect the dots and say, now I can see the upper part of the human body.”

The same brightness limit

Part of Kramer's success was due to his ability to create patterns that met all of these complex criteria. He is a pioneer in the field of algorithmic camouflage design. Instead of relying on his own brain to design patterns, he wrote a program that generates real geometric fractals. Fractals are mathematical patterns that repeat at any scale.

That's why Kramer's patterns were used on everything from rifles to helicopters (not to mention 2.5 million uniforms). Because they scale, they are capable of hiding both a person and an entire building.

All kinds of tests

The art of testing these patterns is almost always more important than the design itself—a process Kramer knows well, having spent a decade helping the Army test patterns. This includes confusing the army's best snipers with thousands of photographs.

At the United States Military Academy at West Point, subjects, including top snipers with perfect or even better vision, viewed slide after slide of camouflaged soldiers in different environments. A huge number of images. From deserts to swamps, any weather, any distance to the target (the pattern should be equally good). Statistics showed that there were 900 subjects, 45 environments, and 120,000 data points.

An important part of the testing process was not only the speed of identifying a visual anomaly, but also the speed of determining the location where the soldier was actually lying. Milliseconds of decision making can make a difference, given that the average sniper takes 12 to 30 seconds to identify a target.

Step by step

At the end of August, a team of American special forces was suddenly sent away from Libya. The fact is that a group of terrorists stole dozens of guns and devices from trucks. How will this affect camouflage? Maximum.

Along with machine guns and lasers, the raiders stole a device that could ultimately cause as much damage as the first two types of devices: special night vision goggles that detect short-wave infrared light - in the SWIR spectrum. Costing $45,000 apiece, the glasses allow soldiers to see down to 1 micron wavelength, where colors merge into a white mass. In other words, it makes camouflage completely useless. The only pair was kept safe in the hands of the US Army. No more.

"Now the bad guys are running around with the same technology," Kramer explains.

The corresponding questions have arisen: since the enemies have changed the supply chain of military equipment, the US Army cannot be sure that those guys are seeing exactly what the US Army wants to see.

We've come a long way from the stone gray or field camouflage of the 19th century. We even managed to move away from the colors of the 60-70s, when with one pattern it was possible to solve many conflicts in ten years. Modern weapons change extremely quickly, and even when the Ministry of Defense takes one model for consideration, there is no guarantee that a new one will not appear next year.

However, many interesting concepts are in development, including those using metamaterials, which we have written a lot about. Here, for example, is a project from Hyperstealth called Quantum Stealth, which we may talk about later.

And there is another project that, unfortunately, its creators cannot discuss.

Vinyl film with camouflage pattern performs two important functions: changes the appearance of the car and protects the body from minor damage. Initially, automobile camouflage was used to camouflage vehicles on the ground. In fact, even now this film is used by lovers of active pastimes.

On the other hand, car owners who are partial to external tuning apply this material with the opposite purpose: to attract attention with an extravagant appearance. Whatever the purpose (camouflage, stylization or paint protection), camouflage film will not let you down. Ease of application and affordable price allow it to be used in all areas of design.

The assortment of car vinyl on the market cannot but please. This type of car design is becoming more and more popular every day. And this is not surprising. After all, for affordable means you can transform your vehicle in an original way and give it individual features. And considering the characteristics of certain types of film, in particular reliable body protection, the cost of such a solution is completely justified.

Special attention motorists are glued to the vinyl camouflage. This is an excellent choice for drivers leading an active life. Camouflage film for cars is suitable for people who often travel outdoors and use their vehicles in extreme conditions, as well as for those who want to emphasize their individuality in the city traffic.

A camouflaged vehicle is the choice of brave drivers who are not embarrassed increased attention to your person. Do you want to make your presence known in the city or, on the contrary, disguise your car in nature? It's easy enough. Self-adhesive vinyl camouflage Comes in all sorts of types and colors: the choice is almost unlimited. Give yourself the joy of being the owner of an exclusive car with a brutal character!

Camouflage film for cars: camouflage for hunting and fishing.

The unique property of camouflage vinyl is its ability to hide vehicles in a certain environment (in a forest, field, winter, summer, etc.). Thanks to this, it is in demand among lovers of hunting, fishing and other entertainment.

Camouflage film on a car camouflages the body to match the environment, making it minimally noticeable. Car vinyl can be used for wrapping: SUVs, cars, boats, boats, ATVs and other vehicles.

The film has a matte texture that does not reflect in the sun. It is specially designed for hunters, fishermen, and lovers of active outdoor activities. When choosing vinyl, take into account the exact conditions in which the vehicle will be used. If you plan to use the car in a coniferous forest, military camouflage would be a good choice. This design will make it invisible even close up.

Our company presents a wide range of vinyl for camouflage purposes and more. From us you can purchase films for fauna and vegetation - forest, desert, army, winter, urban camouflage.

Vinyl film camouflage in urban environments.

Frequent traffic jams, the usual everyday life of a big city, boredom and monotony make you want to stand out from the crowd of identical cliches. Creative camouflage is an excellent choice for extraordinary car owners. Using strong and durable film, you can easily become the owner of an exclusive car with a brutal character.

Recently, many have been trying to give their vehicles as much color and brightness as possible. Vinyl film camouflage is suitable for those who want to have a vehicle with individual features. Unlike other films, it has a unique texture that looks great on any car.

Black and white pixel camouflage is perfect for urban environments. It provides a progressive appearance to the car and attracts attention with its unusual design. Digital texture will add aggressiveness, effectiveness and uniqueness to even a modest car.

You can turn a vehicle into a work of art using a film with a clear pattern of triangles, quadrangles and polygons. Car vinyl is available in different colors - black, gray, dark blue and others. A car framed like this becomes part of the city, complementing its architecture.

External car tuning under camouflage.

Wrapping a car in camouflage allows you to solve several issues - camouflage and creating an individual style.

In our company you can buy vinyl camouflage of various types:

• Amorphous patterns or forest camouflage. This is a practical solution that is ideal for camouflage in certain conditions, such as outdoors, hunting or fishing. You can also disguise the vehicle as a desert or rocks covered with snow.
• Digital camouflage. A unique finish that provides a modern look with a pixelated texture. This car vinyl is available in various colors.
• Urban camouflage on cars with a clearly defined angular pattern fits perfectly into the city surroundings, making vehicles stand out on the road.

All types of camouflage film have their own characteristics and zest. They are suitable for partial and complete transformation of the vehicle body. It is worth noting that vinyl is available in different colors. The most popular shades among motorists are dark green, beige and black, white and gray. Less commonly used are shades of blue and red.

Vinyl camouflage to protect the car body.

A car in military camouflage is the choice of people who are ready for bold experiments. Pasting with such material allows you not only to become the owner of a vehicle with an exclusive design, to emphasize your individuality, to solve camouflage problems, but also to create reliable protection for the paintwork from environmental influences.

Unfortunately, the condition of our roads cannot be called ideal. Even with very careful driving, various defects appear on the body of the vehicle over time. All sorts of troubles await cars in urban conditions and outside the city. Small stones flying from under the wheels of neighboring cars, dust, dirt, sand, branches and the influence of other circumstances bring a lot of trouble.

Pasting the body with high-quality vinyl camouflage well protects the paint layer from various flaws, sunlight (burnout) and other negative factors. Car vinyl is characterized by excellent resistance to various influences. It has good strength, durability, and resistance to aggressive substances.

Car vinyl camouflage is an easy way to hide defects.

Automotive film allows you to solve a lot of issues. The first place, of course, is occupied by the aesthetic and camouflage component. Self-adhesive car vinyl camouflage will help protect vehicles from adverse environmental conditions (rocks, sediment, branches), as well as hide minor coating defects: chips, scratches, rust, minor damage after an accident. This, in turn, extends the service life of the transport.

Camouflage film fits well even on problematic body surfaces. Vinyl is a popular solution for updating vehicles, since wrapping a car with film will cost much less than painting, and the result will be beyond praise. It is worth noting that covering a car with auto vinyl does not harm the body covering. If necessary, the vinyl can be quickly removed, returning the vehicle to its original appearance.

Painting a car in camouflage or vinyl. What's better?

What to choose: painting a car in camouflage or covering it with vinyl film? No painting can convey such a range of colors and give a car such interesting features as vinyl camouflage. In order to paint the body like this, you will have to find an artist. However, today there is an advanced method - auto vinyl. Transport covered with film looks extravagant and original. It is impossible to achieve such an effect using paint and varnish.

Unlike paint, using film is a cheaper and faster solution. It will take a minimum of time to transform your car. In addition, you can quickly return the transport to its previous features. If the technology is followed, the coating can be easily removed from the body.

On a new paint layer, even with very careful use, various defects (chips, scratches) quickly appear. Vinyl camo solves this problem without breaking the bank. After a few years, high-quality camouflage film will have good external characteristics.

What cars is camouflage film suitable for?

In principle, any car can be covered with camouflage vinyl. Experts in the field of auto design believe that it is most suitable for sports cars and SUVs. Self-adhesive camouflage film gives the car an aggressive military look, which does not fit with the super-elegant and somewhat feminine lines of a luxury car.

But on a massive SUV with its “chopped” shapes, camouflage looks just perfect. The spotted vinyl film adds even more solidity and aggression to such a car. Covering with this design makes the SUV brutal and a little intimidating.

Camouflage gives a sports car an individual and unusual look. The “iron horse” covered in camouflage vinyl looks especially impressive on city streets. The bright spotted coating stands out against the background of gray asphalt and the sleek, monochromatic colors of passing cars.

Car camouflage film for SUVs.

Vinyl camouflage film is simply created for cars whose main purpose is to conquer difficult terrain. SUVs are bought not only by people who want to feel the power of hundreds of horsepower, but also by fans of hunting, fishing and travel. Automatic camouflage film will help the hunter (tourist) to easily hide from prying eyes both in the forest and in open areas.

The versatility of the combination “SUV - camouflage vinyl” is that any design and color of the second suits the first. A massive jeep looks equally at home in an army (khaki), desert (gray-beige) or winter (black-gray-white) “uniform.” This car can be covered in vinyl in a classic camouflage design with smooth lines or with a pixel pattern.

The most unusual look on SUVs is graphic camouflage with large angular fragments. This design is called urban. It really looks gorgeous on city roads, within the confines of a crowded metropolis. It just makes a killer impression. But if you want to get lost in the impenetrable wilds and not spook the boar, it will be difficult to do this with such a spectacular color.

Camouflage vinyl for small cars.

Vinyl with a camouflage pattern is suitable for cars of any size. It not only perfectly emphasizes the bestial nature of jeeps and “predatory” sports cars. An ordinary city car can be turned into a dangerous beauty with the help of camouflage vinyl. The main thing is to successfully choose the design and shade of the film.

Anyone who gravitates more towards the classics and does not feel internally ready for drastic changes should opt for film with an amorphous pattern. It is characterized by smooth lines and small spot sizes. This type of camouflage vinyl is usually used in the army and hunting for camouflage. The amorphous pattern imitates the natural landscape.

Those who love general attention and daring decisions should choose pixel or graphic design. However, too large spots of vinyl camouflage on a modest-sized car will visually “tear” it into pieces. It may look like this: one fender will be black, the other white or gray, and the hood may be a mixture of strange lines. If such an effect is not an end in itself, it is better to buy camouflage film with small spots.

Do you need car camouflage inside the cabin?

Many car enthusiasts believe that it is not worth using vinyl film under camouflage inside the car. In fact, it's just a matter of taste. Vinyl can be used to cover any hard surface (including the interior). Another thing is that a car covered inside and outside with camouflage will visually “smear” and lose its characteristic features.

This feature is characteristic of the camouflage design. To prevent this from happening, you should play in contrast. Automotive camouflage goes well with matte plain upholstery. It can be black, gray or brown leather, Alcantara and other materials.

It is advisable to select the color of the upholstery so that it ideally matches one of the shades of vinyl and is, as it were, a continuation of it. It is also worth choosing a plain covering for the floor and ceiling, which will also harmonize with the upholstery fabric of the chairs. Black looks especially good in this situation. It will suit any type and shade of camouflage.

Camouflage vinyl film on a motorcycle.

Another area of ​​application for matte camouflage film is for wrapping motorcycles. Two-wheeled vehicles, no less than SUVs, are suitable for acquiring a more aggressive and intimidating look with the help of spotted auto vinyl. It looks very impressive. Covered with camouflage film, the motorcycle gives the impression of a military vehicle from the distant future.

Auto vinyl is ideal for covering motorcycles also because it stretches and perfectly adapts to any, even the most complex and streamlined shapes. The motorcycle has enough of the latter. Painting it in camouflage is quite difficult. In addition, the “two-wheeled horse” has a lot of small parts that you have to tinker with.

Camouflage vinyl film solves all these problems. Thanks to it, the coating will be the same color everywhere, without sharp transitions or inappropriate shades. It can be used to cover both plastic and steel parts. But we don’t recommend getting carried away! Against the backdrop of the speckled camouflage film, the shine of the chrome looks even cooler.

Camouflage film for cars. DIY pasting.

A good choice for those who want to cover the body with their own hands. The spotted pattern perfectly hides all imperfections. If everything didn’t go smoothly for you or you had to make joints in visible places, don’t worry, the camouflage will hide everything.

Another thing is that working with auto vinyl requires certain dexterity and professional skills. People who have never experienced covering a car with matte vinyl are recommended to start with carbon film. This material is comfortable, with many advantages. After the experience gained, you can move on to pasting with camouflage.

You need to glue the car vinyl tightly, carefully expelling all air bubbles from under the film. Particular attention must be paid to small parts and edges. The latter should be smoothed well, and excess film should be cut off carefully so as not to scratch the glass, headlights and other fragile parts. If you are not 100% sure that you can cope with this task, it is better to contact specialists.

Pasting with camouflage film in Moscow.

Our online store has been selling car wraps for many years. Specialists are not only well versed in its types, but also know how to work with auto vinyl. The pasting workshop is located in Moscow, not far from the Moscow Ring Road. A good transport interchange will help you quickly get to the pit and park your car without any hassle.

Before applying camouflage film, the car must be washed. There is a car wash next to the workshop, after which you can immediately go to a warm box. The company's product range includes a large number of types of vinyl film, including camouflage. You can choose an amorphous pattern in classic green or a very unusual pixelated vinyl in the most crazy shades.

All types of camouflage auto vinyl are presented on the website. You can immediately buy them in the required quantity before pasting. If you don't find something with us, you can come with your material. Our specialists work with any car film and will complete the wrap quickly and efficiently.

Camouflage film colors.

Vinyl camouflage film allows you to operate your car in extreme conditions and makes it almost invisible. The most popular are dark green film coating, black-white-gray and sand vinyl.

Each shade corresponds various types camouflage. The dark green palette, in particular khaki, is widely used to create a military style; white looks harmonious in urban environments; red and blue shades are much less popular.

Khaki camouflage.

Swamp green color is the most interesting shade of matte car vinyl. The khaki camouflage film harmonizes perfectly with SUVs, sedans, and compact city cars, which become completely invisible in any vegetation. The protective color speaks of the brutality and severity of the owner, causing admiration.

Sports dynamic models are suited to a more energetic styling in the form of a light green color. Dark green protection is traditionally associated with military vehicles. The deep rich tone is combined with white and black inclusions of a matte finish.

Red camouflage.

Red camouflage is chosen for bright tuning of vehicles. At exhibitions, this rich and elegant type of decoration is used as exhibits. The color red is synonymous with elegance and boldness; it is often preferred by women who emphasize their sexuality and attractiveness. Red camouflage film is often combined with black film, creating interesting design variations. The emphasis is on the sides, handles, and bumper.

Blue camouflage for cars.

Vinyl blue camouflage on cars is associated with the sky, sea and ice. It testifies to the diligence, peace, tranquility, high diligence and perseverance of a person. The car does not attract much attention. Both SUVs and compact models are covered with blue film, which look much more interesting due to the depth and richness of the color.

Gray camouflage for the car.

Gray camouflage film fits perfectly into autumn and spring landscape. Gray camouflage on cars is most relevant in the middle climatic zone, which is characterized by a cloudy landscape and the proximity of snow to open soil. The gray-brown coloration does not attract attention in deserts and in areas where pastel colors predominate. The matte surface has a significant advantage; it does not create glare in the sun.

White camouflage.

White camouflage film is the most unique and versatile type of coating, containing all shades of the spectrum. Its widespread use in styling and tuning is due to unlimited possibilities and a lot of competitive advantages. Thanks to the white tone, a complete change in the perception of the car is achieved. Luxurious, perfect white color remains dazzlingly clear when exposed to sunlight and detergents.

Black camouflage.

Black camouflage car film transforms the appearance of the car in a striking way. It gives the car design a special charm, solidity and changes it beyond recognition.

The classic harmonizes with any make of car and enhances its beauty even in low light conditions. On a black background, all other colors look most expressive. The combination of different shades turns the car into a work of art.

Urban camouflage for cars (urban).

Sedans and SUVs are often covered with vinyl film in the Urban camouflage style. This direction in external tuning it is considered quite new and allows you to effectively highlight the car on the city highway. Urban camouflage on cars looks extravagant and bold, and also fits perfectly into the city landscape. Such a car will definitely be noticed, even if under the film there is a body of a domestic VAZ.

The main colors of Urban vinyl film are black, gray and white. All body elements must be covered, including the hood, trunk and roof.

Winter camouflage for cars.

Any SUV will look interesting if it is covered with a film with winter camouflage. In such a car you can go hunting, fishing or just drive around the city. Vinyl coating withstands low temperatures well, resists mechanical damage and makes it easy to wash off dirt from the body. Covered in winter camouflage, the car has a presentable appearance.

Craftsmen use film wound in rolls of 30 meters. Vinyl has excellent stretch, so even complex body surfaces can be covered with this material. With proper care, winter camouflage will last about 5 years, preserving the factory paint of the car.

Pixel camouflage for cars.

An alternative to a forest pattern is pixel camouflage on cars. The pattern consists of numerous small squares that intersect with larger rectangular elements. Such pixels come in different color scheme: khaki, dark green, brown, black.

The pasted surface is sealed and resistant to scratches or chips from road gravel and stones. The machine can be used in various climatic conditions. At the same time, the pixel vinyl coating will retain its structure and aesthetic appearance of the car.

Black and white digital camouflage.

To give a more aggressive look to an SUV, ATV or motorcycle, black and white digital camouflage is used. The abstract design of this coating has clear shapes and consists of square dots of corresponding colors. The universal color of vinyl is suitable for decorating individual elements or the entire sedan body. Black, white and gray pixel camouflage is also used for covering scooters.

If the pasting is done in the salon, then much less vinyl film is consumed. The work itself is completed quickly, allowing customers to pick up a fully prepared car within a day.

Military (army) camouflage for a car.

Military camouflage for a car will be memorable and unusual. Film in this style is considered a universal camouflage for any type of transport. You can wallpaper an SUV or a motorcycle in the “Military” style. This service is in demand among hunting enthusiasts who operate boats and trailers. The car body, covered with an army camouflage pattern, blends well with nature. And this is an excellent camouflage from wild animals and even car thieves.

High-quality vinyl with a dense and flexible surface is used for covering. This film is difficult to scratch or damage in off-road conditions, which is important when traveling outside the city or into a forest area.

Geometric camouflage on cars.

This camouflage is also called “chopped”, which fully corresponds to the chosen style. The drawing consists of geometric shapes of different shapes and colors. The applied elements seem to divide the body into several parts. Therefore, it is visually difficult to determine the actual dimensions of the machine. Geometric camouflage on cars is made in three main colors: white, gray, black.

The first developments of this design were made for military equipment. But the designers suggested adding non-standard colors (purple, blue, pink, red, green) to get a stylish and original vinyl covering for city cars.

The use of protective coloring by mankind began quite recently. At first, camouflage colors were used only for military purposes. How many lives were saved by changing the color of the soldier's uniform to the khaki color known today. Now khaki fabric has entered everyday life and is considered the most practical material.

What is protective color

This common name colors that blend with the landscape, nature, and surrounding objects. Objects painted in a protective color remain unnoticed in certain environments.

In some cases, security color refers to the bright color of the entire object or its individual parts, which conveys certain information to the security observer.

Types of protective fabric

Today there are many types of camouflage fabric. The main differences between them are the protective color background and the type of pattern. Thus, the camouflage fabric can be plain or painted in several colors. In the first case, the color is called "khaki". It can be of different shades: from “dirty” yellow to gray-green. If the fabric has a specific pattern of marsh flowers, this protective fabric is called camouflage.

Khaki

The khaki color is often referred to by another well-known word - khaki. This name is translated from Hindi as "dusty". Khaki denotes colors in dusty earthy shades, ranging from dirty yellow to greenish brown.

Camouflage color

Camouflage is a multi-colored small or large spotted pattern that is used to protect the military, their equipment and weapons from visual recognition by the enemy. As a rule, camouflage has only 2-4 colors. Such multicolor significantly distorts the contours of the object, since the color and shape of the design merges with the surrounding background.

The camouflage pattern is a pattern of spots and stripes of different shapes, applied in a certain order. At the same time, military clothing in khaki color is sewn in such a way that the transition of the pattern from one surface to another is preserved.

It should be noted that each army has its own type of camouflage. Thus, by the shape and color of the picture, you can determine where the soldier is serving.

How did the protective color of the fabric come about?

The creator of clothing made from swamp-colored fabric is considered to be the Indian tailor Khaki, after whom the camouflage colors were named. He was the first to sew uniforms for English soldiers from material the color of swamp mud.

According to historical documents, the khaki uniform was custom-made by the English Major Hudson, who was fond of drawing before the army. In 1848 he commanded a battalion of scouts in India. At that time, soldiers wore red uniforms. Naturally, uniforms of this color were an excellent target for bandits and enemies. Even from a great distance it was easy to see the soldiers in red uniforms.

A major with creative abilities solved this problem with a non-standard solution - he dressed the soldiers in nondescript costumes, completely invisible against the background of nature. Since the tailor who made this uniform was named Khaki, they decided to name it after him.

Such changes in the battalion benefited Major Hudson, and he quickly rose to the rank of general.

But, unfortunately, the authorities did not support the idea of ​​​​dressing up the army, and Hudson was dismissed for violating traditions.

Global distribution of khaki color

After Hudson's resignation, the military forgot about the khaki color for some time. And only half a century later, the British again decided to sew khaki uniforms, when the Anglo-Boer War began. The British army took such a step after huge losses of soldiers from sniper fire from enemy shooters.

Then the Russian army began to use the protective color. After analyzing the results of the Russo-Japanese War, the Russian command was forced to change the uniform of the soldiers from white to the swamp.

During the First World War, khaki material was used by the armies of almost all countries of the world. Only the French refused to outfit the soldiers in khaki uniforms, as a result of which they suffered heavy losses. In 1918, the military leaders of France, after much deliberation, finally decided to change their light blue uniforms and multi-colored hats to a marsh-colored field uniform.

From that moment on, the color khaki was associated only with the army.

Applying masking colors

Khaki color of different shades is widely used in the military sphere. Thus, it is customary to paint all military equipment and equipment with a protective color. Tents, backpacks, and various fabric household items that soldiers use in the field are also made from swamp-colored material.

In fact, khaki color is used to paint all objects and objects that are used by the military. This coloring allows soldiers to be unnoticed in different areas and easily move in the right directions. The khaki color background practically blends with nature. And in such conditions, it is very difficult even for a professional to recognize a military man.

According to studies conducted in many countries around the world even before World War II, the protective “dirty” color makes it extremely difficult to visually distinguish an object in almost any terrain. Only on the untouched snow cover are the soldiers more noticeable. In this case, additional camouflage and a change of clothing to lighter colors are required.

In the modern world, protective paints are used not only in the military industry. Khaki color has found its place in many areas where camouflage from human and animal eyes is needed. Thus, swamp-colored clothing is very popular among researchers, archaeologists and tourists. Such nondescript attire does not attract unnecessary attention from others and makes it easy to hide to observe nature.

Fashion for protective paint

For half a century, khaki suits were worn exclusively by military personnel. And only in the early 60s, artist Andrew Warhol wore “dirty” colored clothes to an official reception, which shocked the public. After this, khaki suits began to gain mass popularity among ordinary citizens.

Fashion designers have even created a clothing style with “dirty” colors and a loose cut, known to fashionistas as “safari”. He gained great popularity not only among men. Recently, military-style clothing has become increasingly worn by women.

The most interesting thing is that this style has remained relevant for many years. Even this year famous designers have developed entire collections of khaki outfits.

To keep up with fashion, men and women buy trousers and shirts protective colors, sew exclusive clothes in camouflage colors to order.

In the fashion industry, khaki fabric is mainly used for suits, trousers and jackets. Very often the material is used to create travel equipment.

Khaki - the color of the 21st century

In fact, since the 90s of the last century, khaki fabric has been used by all global clothing manufacturers. Since then, camouflage coloring began to be positioned as the color of freedom and strength. Many countries have begun to create new khaki fabrics that are highly durable and practical.

Today, almost everything is painted in a protective color: bags, wallets, shoes and even mobile phones. Thus, camouflage colors gradually moved from the armed forces to civilian life. According to stylists, khaki color is considered the most popular among men and women.