Army Aircrew Combat Uniform

Army Aircrew Combat Uniform. The Army Aircrew Combat Uniform (A2CU) is a specialized flight uniform developed for United States Army aviation personnel. It was designed to provide enhanced functionality, flame resistance, and comfort for aircrews operating in combat environments, replacing older uniforms like the Battle Dress Uniform for flight duties. Its introduction marked a significant shift towards purpose-built gear for Army Aviation Branch soldiers.

History and development

The development of the A2CU was driven by lessons learned during operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, where standard-issue uniforms proved inadequate for the unique demands of aerial combat and crash survival. Following incidents like the Battle of Takur Ghar, the need for improved flame resistant garments became a top priority for the United States Department of Defense. The program was managed by Program Executive Office Soldier alongside research from the United States Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory. Initial fielding began in 2009, with the uniform becoming standard issue for crews of aircraft like the UH-60 Black Hawk and AH-64 Apache.

Design and features

The A2CU's design integrates several critical features for aircrew safety and mission effectiveness. The uniform is constructed from a Nomex blend fabric, providing inherent flame resistance and meeting the Mil-Spec standard MIL-DTL-83141. Key design elements include a mandarin collar to prevent chafing from survival equipment, zippered sleeves for rapid doffing, and reinforced knees and elbows made from Crye Precision-style materials. The uniform utilizes the Universal Camouflage Pattern, though some units deployed to Southwest Asia theater were issued the Operation Enduring Freedom Camouflage Pattern variant. Integrated pockets are designed for compatibility with Improved Outer Tactical Vest and Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape gear.

Operational use

The A2CU saw extensive operational use with United States Army Aviation Center of Excellence graduates deployed to combat zones. It was worn by aircrews across all major aviation formations, including the 101st Airborne Division and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment during missions in Helmand Province and Kandahar. The uniform's durability and protective qualities were tested in environments ranging from the Hindu Kush mountains to the deserts of Al Anbar Governorate. Its use was governed by regulations from United States Army Training and Doctrine Command and became synonymous with the army's modern aviation warfighter.

Variants and successors

Several variants of the A2CU were produced, including a flame-resistant hot weather version for theaters like the Middle East. The most significant successor program is the Army Aircrew Combat Uniform's replacement by the Army Green Service Uniform for garrison wear, while the operational flight uniform role is being assumed by the Flame Resistant Army Combat Uniform (FR ACU). This next-generation uniform, which uses the Operational Camouflage Pattern, consolidates combat and flight uniforms into a single system for all soldiers, influenced by feedback from United States Central Command and testing at Fort Rucker.

See also

* Flight suit * Advanced Combat Helmet * Joint Service Lightweight Integrated Suit Technology * Air Force Flight Duty Uniform * Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform

Category:United States Army uniforms Category:Military flight clothing