Original US Military issue
The Hot Weather Uniform was introduced in 1977 and was worn primarily by a new multi-branch mobile strike force known as the ‘Rapid Deployment Force’ (RDF), which is how NLABS-2 earned its collector’s title; ‘RDF ERDL’. Made with the same 100% cotton ripstop as the Vietnam-era TCU, the coat featured straight inverted pleated pockets, amongst other minor design changes. The HWU began production in OG-107, as well as old stocks of M-1948 and NLABS-1, until the surplus was depleted in 1979.
In the same year, an updated version of NLABS-1, NLABS-2 (Natick Labs-2) was introduced to replace the wartime patterns. Between 1979-1981, Hot Weather Uniforms were manufactured exclusively with the NLABS-2 pattern until their replacement with the Battle Dress Uniform and the Woodland pattern. Despite being officially replaced in 1981, HWUs saw a lengthy phasing-out period and were sporadically worn by all branches throughout the 1980s alongside Vietnam-era TCU components and BDUs.
Read our comprehensive article on the development and use of US ERDL & Woodland Camouflages HERE.
This example is from an early 1977 DPSC contract and is printed with NLABS-1.
Excellent condition with light wear - All buttons, fittings and fixtures are present and working. The contract label is present and legible. There is some light discolouration. There is a repair under the lower right pocket, but this is mostly covered by the pocket and is hardly noticeable.
Labelled Medium Short
Flat garment measurements (inches):
Chest: 46" (23" P2P)
Length: 30"
Arm: 24"
Shoulder: 19"
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