Genuine Military issue
Dated 1979
100% Cotton
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.
This example is from a 1979 contract and is printed with NLABS-2
Excellent condition with very light wear - All buttons, fittings and fixtures are present and working. The contract label is present and legible.
Flat garment measurements (inches):
Inside leg: 33"
