The U.S. Army has officially announced the availability of the Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) for Soldier uniforms. Starting July 1, military personnel can Purchase Military Uniforms featuring the new camouflage pattern at select military clothing sales stores.
This rollout will occur over a six-month period, from July to November, ensuring all stores are stocked with the new uniforms. New recruits entering service will be issued Operational Camouflage Pattern Army Combat Uniforms (ACUs) beginning in January 2016. The adoption of the Operational Camouflage Pattern follows the most rigorous uniform camouflage testing in Army history, underscoring the Army’s commitment to providing superior force protection.
Sergeant Major of the Army Daniel A. Dailey has advised enlisted Soldiers to utilize their annual clothing allowance for purchasing these updated military uniforms. “Enlisted Soldiers are provided with an annual stipend specifically for the purchase of uniforms and related accessories. I plan to use my clothing allowance to purchase the Operational Camouflage Pattern uniform myself, and I encourage all Soldiers and leaders to plan their budgets over the next 2-3 years to acquire the new uniform, belt, boots, and T-shirts as their clothing allowance is distributed.”
The pricing for the Operational Camouflage Pattern uniform will be comparable to the existing Universal Camouflage Pattern uniform costs. Enlisted Soldiers will continue to receive their clothing allowance to facilitate the replacement of worn uniforms.
Availability of uniforms and equipment in the Operational Camouflage Pattern will extend to the U.S. Army National Guard, U.S. Army Reserve, and Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps during the summer of 2016, further expanding access for those needing to purchase military uniforms.
During a transition period that is expected to last until October 1, 2019, Soldiers are authorized to mix and match T-shirts, belts, and boots with either the Operation Enduring Freedom Camouflage Pattern or the Operational Camouflage Pattern. This flexible approach also allows Soldiers who already possess Flame Resistant ACUs in the Operation Enduring Freedom Camouflage Pattern to continue wearing them throughout this transition.
“I have instructed noncommissioned officers to ensure their Soldiers are aware that during this transition, various uniform combinations and variations will be authorized within formations,” stated Dailey. “Maintaining a professional appearance is a priority for Soldiers. However, we are committed to avoiding any inconvenience or burden on our troops. We will remain the world’s most formidable fighting force, even if our belts are not perfectly matched for a few years.”
Alongside the camouflage pattern update, the Operational Camouflage Pattern ACUs incorporate several minor design enhancements. These include redesigned shoulder sleeve pockets with zipper closures, the removal of the trouser drawstring, a button added to the lower calf pocket, two pen pockets on the sleeve instead of three, and the elimination of hook and loop fasteners on the elbow and knee patches. These changes are aimed at improving the functionality and comfort of the military uniforms available for purchase.
