About Army Combat Uniforms

The Army Combat Uniform (ACU) is the current uniform that is worn by United States Army soldiers.  It features a different camouflage pattern than the previous Battle Dress Uniform (BDU) and is made of 50 percent nylon and 50 percent cotton.

Pattern

The pattern that is used by the United States Army for the ACU is the uniform camouflage pattern that blends tan, gray and green together and is designed for use in the desert, woodland and the urban environments.

Components

• The jacket on the ACU uses hooks and looped backed attachments to display the name tapes and other patches. The mandarin collar is worn up to fit with the body armor and down when not worn with the body armor. The front is zippered and reinforced with Velcro. The pockets use Velcro and the hook and loop closures.


• The trousers are worn with a two-inch web belt with Velcro-closure pockets.


• The uniform is worn with a sand colored tee shirt that is moisture absorbing.


• The footwear that is worn is made of tan rough side out cattle hide leather. The boots are worn with moisture absorbing socks.


• The uniform is worn with the Advanced Combat Helmet, the patrol cap or green, maroon, tan, or black beret.

Uniform Care

The ACU is to be washed with a mild detergent that does not contain brighteners. The uniform will not be starched or steamed pressed because these will make the uniform bright under night vision viewing.