The Alpenflage Story

TAZ 83: The Vibrant Legacy of Swiss Military Camouflage

When one thinks of military camouflage, the image that often comes to mind is a blend of greens, browns, and tans—colors designed to blend into forested or desert environments. However, the Swiss Army's TAZ 83, also known as Alpenflage, stands out with its unique and vibrant design. Let's delve into the history, development, and lasting impact of this distinctive camouflage pattern.

Origins and Development

Post-War Influence: The origins of Alpenflage can be traced back to the end of World War II. The pattern is believed to be derived from the German Leibermuster camouflage, which was notable for its near-infrared camouflage properties intended to counter early night vision devices. This advanced design found its way into Swiss military use during the post-war period, showcasing a blend of innovation and adaptation.

Czechoslovakian Connection: After the war, the Swiss military is rumored to have obtained either the pattern or the printing equipment from Czechoslovakia, a significant hub for the German war industry during the occupation. This transfer of technology and design was instrumental in the development of the Swiss camouflage.

Adoption and Use

Introduction: The Swiss Army officially adopted this pattern in 1957, designating it as TAZ 57. Later refinements led to the creation of TAZ 83, which became widely known as Alpenflage.

Design Features: One of the most striking aspects of Alpenflage is its vibrant color scheme, including a notable amount of red. Studies suggested that red was a significant color in the Swiss landscape, thus its inclusion aimed at better camouflage in the region. The field jackets were particularly notable, featuring up to ten pockets designed to carry a full combat loadout, including ammunition, grenades, and rations. This practical design made the uniform highly functional for soldiers in the field.

The Alpenflage Story: A Personal Journey

A Remarkable Discovery: The story of Swiss Alpenflage Camo begins with me, the owner of Swiss-Link. In the 1990s, before the Swiss Army had officially released this camouflage pattern, I stumbled upon a truckload of these camo pieces destined for the dumpster. They had been intentionally slashed to prevent reuse. Utilizing my connections, I salvaged these items and had them repaired at a specialized shop.

Official Introduction: The TAZ 83 pattern, commonly known as Alpenflage, was officially introduced by the Swiss Army in 1983. This pattern evolved from earlier camouflage designs, such as the TAZ 57, and was used primarily for non-combat troops until it was phased out in the 1990s. The TAZ 83 is a distinctive six-color pattern that includes tan, green, red, and black leaf shapes, making it highly effective in alpine environments, despite its seemingly bright appearance.

Naming and Trademarking: At that time, this camo was entirely new to the market. We initially sold them under the simple name “Swiss Camo,” but I found that name lacking in character. Inspired by Switzerland’s iconic Alps, I coined the name “Alpenflage” and even secured a trademark for it. Today, the term Alpenflage is widely recognized and used by the industry, including some officials in the Swiss Army. I take pride in the widespread adoption of the name Alpenflage, and I don’t charge anyone for using it. The name reflects the camo’s origins and its connection to the Swiss Alps, where the Swiss Army frequently trains.

Recognition and Popularity: In the late 1990s, the International Bird Watching Society recognized Alpenflage as the best overall camouflage ever conceived. Despite its seemingly bright colors, it blends seamlessly into outdoor environments, to the extent that we had to photograph it in a studio rather than in the field.

Service and Legacy

Service Duration: Alpenflage was in service from 1957 until it was phased out in 1993, replaced by the TAZ 90 pattern, which offered a more subdued color palette.

Cultural Impact: Despite its retirement, Alpenflage has remained popular among military surplus enthusiasts and collectors. Its distinctive look and historical significance have earned it a colloquial nickname, the "four fruit pajamas," due to its colorful design. The pattern’s uniqueness continues to capture the imagination of those interested in military history and memorabilia.

Current Status

Surplus Market: Today, items featuring the Alpenflage pattern, such as jackets, pants, and rucksacks, are readily available on the surplus market. These items are sought after not just for their practical use but also for their historical and aesthetic value.

TAZ 83, or Alpenflage, is a fascinating example of military innovation and adaptation in the post-war era. Its vibrant design and practical features reflect both the technological advancements and the unique aesthetic choices of the Swiss military. The pattern’s legacy endures, captivating military enthusiasts and collectors around the world.