Soviet M69 uniform in Afghanistan

Model 1969 uniform (summer version) worn by the Soviet troops deployed in Afghanistan in 1979. Early model with green plastic buttons, later models issued with shining brass buttons! (from 1973)

With no serious NBCW danger in Afghanistan, the gas mask pouch (left side) was used as a multi-usage bag.

The Soviet Panama hat goes back to the 1920s, it was originally used in subtropical regions by border guards, later on the Red Army adopted a similar model.

Very soon it was realised that with it's few & small pockets, it's trousers (breeches meant to be worn with the tall Kirza jackboots) the M69 uniform was not appropriate for this new kind of conflict.

The basic webbing equipment (left to right): grenade pouch (2x F1 hand grenades), canteen, entrenching tool & magazine pouch (this type, 4x30 rounds).

Blog written by: "Flächenjak"

Revised May 20th, 2025