The United States Navy is known for its adaptability and readiness across diverse environments. To support its expeditionary forces in various operational theaters, the Navy introduced the Navy Working Uniform (NWU) family. Among these, the NWU Type II stands out as a specialized tactical uniform designed for arid and desert landscapes. Understanding the NWU Type II is crucial for appreciating the Navy’s commitment to equipping its sailors for mission success in every clime and place.
The NWU Type II, along with its counterpart NWU Type III, was developed to modernize and streamline the Navy’s uniform system. Prior to their introduction, sailors utilized a range of legacy uniforms, many of which were less effective for contemporary missions. The NWU program aimed to consolidate these, reduce costs, and enhance the warfighter’s capabilities. The NWU Type II specifically addresses the needs of sailors operating in desert, tundra, and arid regions, providing them with a tactical advantage through effective camouflage.
This desert digital camouflage uniform is characterized by a four-color pattern meticulously designed to blend seamlessly with desert environments. It is designated for wear by Special Warfare Operators, the sailors who provide crucial support to these elite units, and select Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) units. These are the personnel who are most likely to be deployed in arid and desert operational areas, making the NWU Type II a critical component of their gear.
Unlike the NWU Type I, which is the blue and gray service utility uniform for all sailors, the NWU Type II and Type III are tactical uniforms tailored for specific environments. While NWU Type II excels in desert landscapes, the NWU Type III is designed for woodland and temperate regions. Both uniforms are unisex, ensuring a standardized fit and appearance across the force, and are considered organizational clothing. This means they are issued by authorized commands and remain the property of the issuing command, highlighting their specialized purpose within the Navy’s operational framework.
The development of the NWU Type II and Type III was spearheaded by Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC). Their expertise ensured that these uniforms were designed with mission success and sailor survivability as paramount considerations. The NWU Type II is specifically engineered to increase the wearer’s probability of mission success and survivability in the harsh conditions of desert, tundra, and arid regions, providing a significant tactical advantage.
It is important to note that with the adoption of the NWU Type III as the standard camouflage uniform, older uniforms like the desert camouflage uniform (DCU) and woodland camouflage utility uniform (CUU) are no longer authorized. The NWU Type III now serves as the primary camouflage uniform in CONUS and can be worn while deployed as directed by combatant commanders, effectively replacing the legacy woodland camouflage utility uniform in most scenarios.
To complete the uniform, specific boots are authorized for wear with the NWU Type II and Type III. These are the US Navy Working Uniform Boots in Coyote Brown, designed for durability and performance in demanding environments. Several reputable brands manufacture these boots, ensuring sailors have access to quality footwear that meets the rigorous standards of naval operations.
US Navy Working Uniform Boot – Coyote Brown Options
Sailors authorized to wear the NWU Type II and Type III uniforms are equipped with coyote brown boots. Here are some approved manufacturers and styles:
Belleville Boot Company
- Style Sabre #533 Non Safety Toe Certification # 25-CY-27-002371-225
- Style Sabre #533ST Safety Toe Certification # 25-CY-27-002375-225-88
Rocky Brand
- Style #S2V 104 Non Safety Toe Certification # 25-CY-27-002372-225-01
- Style #S2V 104-1 Non Safety Toe lined Certification # 25-CY-27-002374-225-02
- Style #S2V 6104 Safety Toe Certification # 25-CY-27-002373-225-88
These boots are crucial for providing support and protection in the diverse terrains where the NWU Type II and Type III are worn. The certifications listed ensure that these boots meet specific safety and performance standards for military use.
Permethrin Treatment for Enhanced Protection
Beyond camouflage and durability, the NWU Type II and Type III uniforms also incorporate features to enhance sailor safety and comfort. One such feature is Permethrin treatment. Permethrin is an insecticide applied to the fabric to provide protection against insects.
Evaluations have been conducted to ensure the effectiveness and durability of Permethrin treatment on NWU Type II and Type III fabrics. These evaluations, governed by EPA registration standards, confirmed that Permethrin can be successfully applied to these uniform types. The treatment remains durable through home laundering and provides a significant level of protection compared to untreated uniforms. This added layer of protection is vital for sailors operating in environments where insect-borne diseases are a concern.
In conclusion, the Navy Working Uniform Type II is a critical component of the US Navy’s tactical uniform system. Specifically designed for desert and arid environments, it provides essential camouflage and protection for Special Warfare Operators, support personnel, and select NECC units. Coupled with coyote brown boots and Permethrin treatment, the NWU Type II exemplifies the Navy’s dedication to equipping its sailors with the best possible gear for mission success and safety across the globe.
