Japan

Japan (日本) renounced its right to declare war in the aftermath of the Second World War, but nevertheless maintains a sizeable and well-trained armed force. The Japanese Self-Defense Forces (自衛隊 or Jieitai), established in 1954, consist of the Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). Since 1992, the National Diet has permitted the JSDF to participate in international peacekeeping efforts around the world of a non-combatant nature. These efforts have included limited involvement in Iraq, Haiti, and Somalia.

Camouflage uniforms were not commonly worn by members of the JSDF until approximately 1991. Prior to this only individual units such as the Airborne Rangers were issued camouflage.

Japanese Camouflage Patterns

• The first modern camouflage pattern of Japanese design was introduced in the 1980s. The design, having black, brown and medium green woodland shapes on a pale green background, was primarily issued to members of the 1st Airborne Brigade. In later years, the pattern saw sporadic issue to other units. The pattern became outdated in 1992 with the introduction of the "dots" design.

• A camouflage design based on the original JSDF drawings was introduced in 1988 for issue to the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force Ground Defense and Airbase Security Personnel.

• A new camouflage design based on the German Army's flecktarn was introduced in 1991 for issue to the entire JSDF. The pattern features black, brown and grass green dots on a khaki background, and is produced in a variety of uniform articles as well as field equipment. The pattern is often called Jeitai in reference to the indigenous name for the JSDF.

• A winter version of the Jeitai dots pattern having a higher concentration of brown has been produced for cold weather clothing and Goretex all-weather gear.

• JSDF personnel operating in mountainous, snowy regions wear a special all-white insulated winter uniform. (no photo)

• A desert pattern was briefly entertained for use by Japanese Air Self-Defense Force Ground Defense and Airbase Security Personnel. Loosely based on the US six-color desert "chocolate chip" pattern, this design was never officially adopted. It was tested between 1992 and 1995.

• First seen in 2008, the JSDF now issue a desert camouflage uniform based on the US tricolor desert pattern, but reduced in overall size. This was worn by JASDF personnel serving in Iraq and is likely to continue being issued to those serving with the UN abroad.

Comparison Photographs

• Comparision of the Japanese Air Force desert pattern with the Japanese Air Force pattern

• Comparision of the Japanese Air Force pattern with the Japanese Army Airborne pattern