CADPAT - Improved Combat Uniform

Improved Combat Uniform

The Canadian Forces will receive a new CADPAT uniform from 2012. The new uniform known as "improved combat uniform" or ICU, will receive 17 enhancements including :

  • Mandarin collar
  • Integrated kneepads
  • Velcro attachment on sleeve cuffs
  • Flat chest pockets

The pattern of the ICU will remain the same, and the CADPAT pattern will not be altered. In addition to the uniform modifications, DND has decided to adopt a different style of boots, similar to those currently in use in overseas operations. These improved boots will be brown or tan in colour and consist of a suede material, versus the traditional black leather. The new boot design allows for improved air circulation, lighter boot, and the new colour is more relevant to current operational situations.

The Department of National Defence estimates the production rate would be about 24,000 ICU uniforms per year. The decision to change the combat uniform is mostly due to problems with drying, and it offers poor integration with operational equipment. The other reason is the loss of colour after only one year of use.

Read more about this topic:  CADPAT

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