Estonia - Revision history

Admin1: /* Estonian Camouflage Patterns */

2021-05-23T17:34:05Z

Estonian Camouflage Patterns

Admin1: /* Other Camouflage Patterns worn by Estonian Forces */

2020-12-06T19:37:12Z

Other Camouflage Patterns worn by Estonian Forces

Admin1: /* Estonian Camouflage Patterns */

2020-07-29T23:26:21Z

Estonian Camouflage Patterns

Admin1: /* Other Camouflage Patterns worn by Estonian Forces */

2020-07-29T01:34:16Z

Other Camouflage Patterns worn by Estonian Forces

Admin1: /* Estonian Camouflage Patterns */

2020-07-28T23:53:13Z

Estonian Camouflage Patterns

Admin1: /* Estonian Camouflage Patterns */

2020-07-28T23:46:13Z

Estonian Camouflage Patterns

Admin1: /* Estonian Camouflage Patterns */

2020-07-18T23:38:26Z

Estonian Camouflage Patterns

Admin1: /* Estonian Camouflage Patterns */

2020-07-18T23:35:26Z

Estonian Camouflage Patterns

Admin1: /* Estonian Camouflage Patterns */

2020-07-17T17:26:54Z

Estonian Camouflage Patterns

Admin1: /* Estonian Camouflage Patterns */

2020-07-17T17:25:23Z

Estonian Camouflage Patterns

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 [[File:Estonia4.jpg|200px]]
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 * In 1995, a new style of uniform was introduced for the Estonian Defense Forces, and with it a distinctly "green dominant" version of the TTsKO pattern emerged as a fairly standardized camouflage pattern for Estonian forces. The shapes of the pattern differ somewhat from the original Soviet-produced model, in particular a distinctive "Q" shape can be located within the Estonian design, consistent from the earliest to most recent productions of the pattern. The early so-called "Fisherman's Suit" was quickly replaced by Soviet M88-style uniforms, but the green-dominant camouflage design remained in production and became the standard coloration of TTsKO for all subsequent Estonian military uniforms and equipment. Although like earlier production camouflage there would be minor inconsistencies in shade and tone, the "green TTsKO" camouflage would come to be identified with Estonian forces exclusively and is instantly recognizable when compared to the TTsKO variations produced in other former Soviet Republics. Some versions of this basic green design would remain in use with Estonian forces well into the 21st century, particularly with reservists and members of the EDF.

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 == Other Camouflage Patterns worn by Estonian Forces ==
-* The ''Kaitseliit'' or Estonian Defence League, a paramilitary national defence organization operating much like some national guard units, was supplied with surplus [[East Germany|East German Army]] ''strichtarn'' pattern camouflage uniforms during the early part of the 1990s.
+* The ''Kaitseliit'' or Estonian Defence League, a paramilitary national defence organization operating much like some national guard units, was supplied with surplus [[East Germany|East German Army]] ''strichtarn'' pattern camouflage uniforms during the early part of the 1990s. A local nickname for the pattern and uniforms was ''makaronid'' or "spaghettis." Additionally, the ''Sissikompanii'' (guerilla companies) of the Border Guards also routinely wore surplus East German ''strichtarn'' pattern uniforms during tactical exercises, until the units were disbanded in 2004.
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 * In 2006 Estonia introduced a pixelated pattern of black, olive green, & rust on moss green background, developed by Andres Lüll. The uniform is designated Estonian Digital Combat Uniforms or ESTDCU, and was intended to replace the older, TTsKO-based design. The actual implementation of the new uniform camouflage pattern was slow, with many reserve units continuing to utilize old stocks of camouflage as their service uniform. The pattern has remarkably strong similarities to the [[Canada|Canadian Armed Forces]] CADPAT Temperate design.

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 * Distinctive variations of the TTsKO design having violet, ochre, and khaki shapes on a light colored background are also well-documented from the formative period of the Estonian Defense Force. Although there is much speculation as to the reasons for the obvious color differences, no concrete evidence has emerged to explain the contrast with other designs. It is possible the lighter colored versions were considered for seasonal issue (autumn/winter, as opposed to spring/summer), or for deployment in certain terrain (low vegetation, sandy beaches). Nevertheless, photographic evidence indicates the light versions were worn concurrently with both Soviet period and locally-produced Estonian TTsKO brown/khaki patterns, suggesting that in practice there was little strict control over whether soldiers were issued with one type of camouflage or another. Several variations have been noted, showing again the inconsistencies during this period in quality control from Estonian factories. It is worth noting that appearance of the lighter-colored variations fell into disuse by the the late 1990s.

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-* The production and issue of indigenous Estonian camouflage began around 1990. Variations of the [[USSR|Soviet]] 3-TsV or TTsKO pattern in color palettes atypical to the Soviet era are well-documented during this time period, interspersed with known Soviet-produced surplus stock uniforms leftover from the days when Soviet forces were charged with defense of the country. In 1992, a basic set of preliminary uniform guidelines were issued by the Chief of Staff, but the resulting Estonian-produced camouflage patterns varied widely in color and tone, the differences most likely due to inconsistencies in quality control from various Estonian factories. Extant photographs and uniforms from this period suggest the earliest production camouflage patterns were probably an attempt to reproduce Soviet TTsKO, with a preponderance of brown, khaki, and olive-green dominant designs appearing in use all at the same time.
+* The production and issue of indigenous Estonian camouflage began around 1990. Variations of the [[USSR|Soviet]] 3-TsV or TTsKO pattern in color palettes atypical to Soviet factories are well-documented in Estonia during this time period, interspersed with known Soviet-produced surplus stock uniforms leftover from the days when the country was part of the USSR. In 1992, a basic set of preliminary uniform guidelines were issued by the Chief of Staff, but the resulting Estonian-produced camouflage patterns varied widely in color and tone, the differences most likely due to inconsistencies in quality control from various Estonian factories. Extant photographs and uniforms from this period suggest the earliest production camouflage patterns appear to be copies of the Soviet TTsKO, with a preponderance of brown, khaki, and olive-green dominant designs appearing in use all at the same time. Of note, the distinctive "teardrop" shape identified in the original Soviet pattern is also present in all of the known Estonian color variants produced between 1991 and 1994.
 [[File:estonia-earlyttsko.jpg|200px]]
 * Distinctive variations of the TTsKO design having violet, ochre, and khaki shapes on a light colored background are also well-documented from the formative period of the Estonian Defense Force. Although there is much speculation as to the reasons for the obvious color differences, no concrete evidence has emerged to explain the contrast with other designs. It is possible the lighter colored versions were considered for seasonal issue (autumn/winter, as opposed to spring/summer), or for deployment in certain terrain (low vegetation, sandy beaches). Nevertheless, photographic evidence indicates the light versions were worn concurrently with both Soviet period and locally-produced Estonian TTsKO brown/khaki patterns, suggesting that in practice there was little strict control over whether soldiers were issued with one type of camouflage or another. Several variations have been noted, showing again the inconsistencies during this period in quality control from Estonian factories. It is worth noting that appearance of the lighter-colored variations fell into disuse by the the late 1990s.
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 [[File:Estonia6.jpg|200px]]
-* In 1995, a new style of uniform was introduced for the Estonian Defense Forces, and with it a distinctly "green dominant" version of the TTsKO pattern emerged as a fairly standardized camouflage pattern for Estonian forces. The so-called "Fisherman's Suit" was quickly replaced by Soviet M88-style uniforms, but the green-dominant camouflage design remained in production and became the standard coloration of TTsKO for all subsequent Estonian military uniforms and equipment. Although like earlier production camouflage there would be minor inconsistencies in shade and tone, the "green TTsKO" camouflage would come to be identified with Estonian forces exclusively and is instantly recognizable when compared to the TTsKO variations produced in other former Soviet Republics. Some versions of this basic green design would remain in use with Estonian forces well into the 21st century, particularly with reservists and members of the EDF.
+* In 1995, a new style of uniform was introduced for the Estonian Defense Forces, and with it a distinctly "green dominant" version of the TTsKO pattern emerged as a fairly standardized camouflage pattern for Estonian forces. The shapes of the pattern differ somewhat from the original Soviet-produced model, in particular a distinctive "Q" shape can be located within the Estonian design, consistent from the earliest to most recent productions of the pattern. The early so-called "Fisherman's Suit" was quickly replaced by Soviet M88-style uniforms, but the green-dominant camouflage design remained in production and became the standard coloration of TTsKO for all subsequent Estonian military uniforms and equipment. Although like earlier production camouflage there would be minor inconsistencies in shade and tone, the "green TTsKO" camouflage would come to be identified with Estonian forces exclusively and is instantly recognizable when compared to the TTsKO variations produced in other former Soviet Republics. Some versions of this basic green design would remain in use with Estonian forces well into the 21st century, particularly with reservists and members of the EDF.
 [[File:Estonia5.jpg|200px]]
 * Between 1993 and 1998, members of the Border Guard ''(Eesti Piirivalve)'' were issued a unique camouflage design consisting of purple and tan shapes (forming the outline of Estonia) on a bright green background.

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 [[File:ussr8.jpg|200px]]
-* The production and issue of indigenous Estonian camouflage began around 1990. Variations of the [[USSR|Soviet]] 3-TsV or TTsKO pattern in color palettes atypical for the Soviet period are well-documented during this time period, interspersed with known Soviet-produced surplus stocks. In 1992, a basic set of preliminary uniform guidelines were issued by the Chief of Staff, and a distinctly "green dominant" version of the TTsKO pattern emerged as the standard camouflage pattern for Estonian forces, although numerous variations in color and tone were produced, the differences most likely due to inconsistencies in quality control from various Estonian factories. Some versions of this basic green design would remain in use with Estonian forces well into the 21st century, particularly with reservists and members of the EDF.
+* The production and issue of indigenous Estonian camouflage began around 1990. Variations of the [[USSR|Soviet]] 3-TsV or TTsKO pattern in color palettes atypical for the Soviet era are well-documented during this time period, interspersed with known Soviet-produced surplus stocks. In 1992, a basic set of preliminary uniform guidelines were issued by the Chief of Staff, and a distinctly "green dominant" version of the TTsKO pattern emerged as the standard camouflage pattern for Estonian forces, although numerous variations in color and tone were produced, the differences most likely due to inconsistencies in quality control from various Estonian factories. Some versions of this basic green design would remain in use with Estonian forces well into the 21st century, particularly with reservists and members of the EDF.
 [[File:estonia5.jpg|200px]]

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 [[File:ussr8.jpg|200px]]
-* A variation of the [[USSR|Soviet]] 3-TsV or TTsKO pattern was introduced for Estonia at some point in the early 1990s, probably created and initially produced in [[Ukraine]]. The Estonian versions of 3-TsV are distinguished by a strong green tint. Some versions of this design would remain in use with Estonian forces for years, until replaced in 2006 by a pixelated camouflage design.
+* The production and issue of indigenous Estonian camouflage began around 1990. Variations of the [[USSR|Soviet]] 3-TsV or TTsKO pattern in color palettes atypical for the Soviet period are well-documented during this time period, interspersed with known Soviet-produced surplus stocks. In 1992, a basic set of preliminary uniform guidelines were issued by the Chief of Staff, and a distinctly "green dominant" version of the TTsKO pattern emerged as the standard camouflage pattern for Estonian forces, although numerous variations in color and tone were produced, the differences most likely due to inconsistencies in quality control from various Estonian factories. Some versions of this basic green design would remain in use with Estonian forces well into the 21st century, particularly with reservists and members of the EDF.
 [[File:estonia5.jpg|200px]]
-* A tan variation of the same period has violet & ochre amoebic shapes on a sandy background. This was reputedly tested as a desert pattern circa 1990, although some evidence suggests it was also worn by units operating in and around sandy beaches. At least two variations have been noted, the more common one with muted colors and another with very strong colors.
+* Distinctive variations of the TTsKO design having violet, ochre, and khaki shapes on a light colored background are also well-documented from the formative period of the Estonian Defense Force. Although there is much speculation as to the reasons for the obvious color differences, no concrete evidence has emerged to explain the contrast with the green-dominant patterns. It is possible the lighter colored versions were considered for seasonal issue (autumn/winter, as opposed to spring/summer), or for deployment in certain terrain (low vegetation, sandy beaches). Nevertheless, photographic evidence indicates the light versions were worn concurrently with both Soviet period and green dominant Estonian TTsKO patterns, suggesting that in practice there was little strict control over whether soldiers were issued with one type of camouflage or another. Several variations have been noted, showing again the inconsistencies during this period in quality control from Estonian factories. It is worth noting that appearance of the lighter-colored variations fell into disuse by the the late 1990s.
 [[File:Estonia4.jpg|200px]]
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 [[File:Estonia8.jpg|200px]]
-* The desert version of the green tricolour amoeba pattern was introduced between 2001 and 2004. It has been worn by Estonian military personnel serving in Iraq (OIF) & Afghanistan (OEF). Early versions of this pattern were printed on the same thick cotton fabric of the first style uniforms, whilst later production runs were printed on ripstop fabric. Some slight variations in color have been documented.
+* A desert version of the green tricolour amoeba pattern was introduced between 2001 and 2004. It has been worn by Estonian military personnel serving in Iraq (OIF) & Afghanistan (OEF). Early versions of this pattern were printed on the same thick cotton fabric of the first style uniforms, whilst later production runs were printed on ripstop fabric. Some slight variations in color have been documented.
 [[File:Estonia_desert_pattern.jpg|200px]]
 [[File:Estonia7.jpg|200px]]
-* In 2006 Estonia introduced a pixelated pattern of black, olive green, & rust on moss green background, developed by Andres Lüll. The uniform is designated Estonian Digital Combat Uniforms or ESTDCU, and has largely replaced the older design. The pattern has remarkably strong similarities to the [[Canada|Canadian Armed Forces]] CADPAT Temperate design.
+* In 2006 Estonia introduced a pixelated pattern of black, olive green, & rust on moss green background, developed by Andres Lüll. The uniform is designated Estonian Digital Combat Uniforms or ESTDCU, and was intended to replace the older, TTsKO-based design. The actual implementation of the new uniform camouflage pattern was slow, with many reserve units continuing to utilize old stocks of camouflage as their service uniform. The pattern has remarkably strong similarities to the [[Canada|Canadian Armed Forces]] CADPAT Temperate design.
 [[File:Estonia1.jpg|200px]]