Soviet KZS Camouflage
(Kostium zashchitnoi Seti)

Special Purpose Uniforms:
The KZS Camouflage Set

The Soldier is Wearing:
The soldier in this picture is wearing the inexpensive KZS camouflage set, first developed in 1975. He is also wearing the standard Soviet load bearing harness, a the 'Panama' style hat, the large rucksack, gas mask carrier, and is armed with an RPK-74 assault rifle.  The pouch on his right holds four 45-round magazines for his weapon.  Under the two piece coverall he is wearing the conventional Afghan six pocket uniform introduced around 1981.  The KZS suit is no longer in production.

Sources Cited

 

KZS Camouflage Suit -

This disposable two piece uniform was developed as a cheap alternative to the commonly used KLMK uniforms of the era. It is made of a loose weave cotton fabric, and is often called the 'burlap' uniform by Western sources. The uniform is very large and can accommodate individuals of almost any size. For smaller framed soldiers, the sleeves can be rolled up an buttoned for a better fit. The upper part of the suit has a hood sewn into it with cloth fasteners to give improved concealment. The uniform has no pockets, but has large slits cut into it at hip level so the soldier can access the pockets of the trousers underneath. This uniform is not intended to be used over long periods of time, and the colors will fade and mix if it is washed. There are many different color variations of this uniform, but the yellow on dark green is the most common. Some examples have shoulder loops for rank boards, but many do not.

During the Afghan conflict, this pattern of camouflage was often worn by reconnaissance troops and engineers (sappers). It was also popular with paratroopers. This uniform was still being used by the Airmobile Detachment of the Quick Reaction Force of Civil Defense in the late 1990's. It is also worn by paramilitary groups and training units of the Russian armed forces.

 

This Uniform Replaced... KZS Camouflage Coverall This Uniform was Replaced by...
KLMK Camouflage Uniform Uncertain at Present

  

Bibliography

 

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of the Afghan War