The Uniforms of the Soviet Airborne in Afghanistan: A Historical Overview

The Soviet Airborne Forces, or VDV (Vozdushno-desantnye voyska), played a significant role during the Soviet Union’s military intervention in Afghanistan (1979–1989). As elite paratroopers, the Soviet VDV were tasked with rapid deployment and special operations in some of the harshest and most rugged terrain. The uniforms worn by Soviet airborne troops during the Afghan War not only symbolized their elite status but also reflected the practical demands of combat in Afghanistan's mountainous and desert environment. This article explores the history, evolution, and significance of the Uniforms history of the Soviet Airborne in Afghanistan worn during the conflict.

1. The Origins and Purpose of the Soviet Airborne Forces

The Soviet Airborne Forces, established in the early years of the Soviet Union, were meant to serve as a mobile, elite fighting force capable of conducting airborne assaults and rapid strikes behind enemy lines. By the time the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan began in 1979, the VDV had already developed a reputation for their specialized skills, high mobility, and ability to operate in difficult environments. Their primary role in Afghanistan included conducting airborne drops, securing key positions, and providing support to ground forces.

The uniforms and gear worn by Soviet airborne troops needed to be versatile enough to accommodate the wide range of operations they were tasked with while offering the durability required for the tough conditions of Afghanistan.

2. The Early Soviet Airborne Uniforms (1970s to Early 1980s)

Before the Afghan War, Soviet Airborne troops were typically equipped with distinctive blue berets, known as the "Desantniki" (airborne soldiers), which became an iconic symbol of the VDV. These berets were complemented by practical combat uniforms designed for flexibility and comfort. The standard Soviet airborne uniform during this period consisted of the following components:

a. The "Telnyashka" Striped Shirt

A central feature of the Soviet Airborne uniform was the telnyashka, a blue and white striped undershirt that became closely associated with the VDV. Worn under the combat jacket, the telnyashka had been part of the uniform since the early 20th century and was seen as a symbol of the airborne troops' distinctive identity. Its stripes, often referred to as "the sailor’s shirt," were a symbol of pride, camaraderie, and toughness among Soviet paratroopers.

b. The M-69 (1969) Uniform

The standard Soviet military combat uniform worn by airborne troops in the early stages of the Afghan War was the M-69 uniform, which was similar to other Soviet Army uniforms of the time but tailored for airborne operations. The M-69 was designed for versatility and comfort, featuring an olive green color to blend into various environments. It included a shirt with four pockets, and trousers with reinforced knee sections, designed to withstand the wear and tear of both urban and mountainous terrain.

This uniform, while functional, had some limitations in the harsh conditions of Afghanistan, where temperatures ranged from freezing winters in the mountains to scorching heat in the summer.

3. The Adaptation of Uniforms for Afghanistan (Mid-1980s)

As the Soviet Airborne Forces became more deeply involved in Afghanistan, adjustments to their uniforms were made to better suit the demands of the environment. The Soviet military began issuing modifications to the standard uniform, aiming to improve comfort, performance, and camouflage in Afghanistan’s rugged, often arid landscape.

a. Camouflage Patterns

In the mid-1980s, the Soviet military introduced camouflage patterns for uniforms and gear that were more suited to the Afghan terrain. The most common camouflage pattern used by Soviet airborne troops in Afghanistan was a "DPM" (Disruptive Pattern Material)-type pattern, designed for use in desert and mountain environments. This pattern, which featured a mix of beige, brown, and green, helped to conceal soldiers in Afghanistan's dry, rocky, and dusty landscapes.

b. M-81 "Afghan" Camouflage

In addition to the standard green camouflage, the Soviet military also introduced a special M-81 "Afghan" camouflage for airborne troops in Afghanistan. This pattern was designed with a combination of light tan, brown, and green, providing better concealment in both the desert and mountainous regions. This uniform modification became a distinct visual identifier of Soviet forces operating in Afghanistan, though it was also shared by other Soviet Army units during the conflict.

c. Increased Emphasis on Durability

Given the extremely rugged conditions of Afghanistan, including steep mountain ranges, dense vegetation in certain areas, and arid desert stretches, Soviet airborne uniforms were made from tougher materials to withstand the wear of battle. The uniforms were reinforced with additional stitching, and soldiers were issued protective gear, such as knee and elbow pads, to help them endure combat situations in difficult terrain.

4. Soviet Airborne Gear and Accessories

Alongside their distinctive uniforms, Soviet airborne troops were equipped with a range of gear and accessories that complemented their specialized roles. The goal of this equipment was to maximize mobility, efficiency, and combat readiness while ensuring soldiers were equipped to deal with Afghanistan’s diverse and challenging environment.

a. The Airborne Beret

One of the most recognizable features of Soviet airborne uniforms was the blue beret, worn by all VDV soldiers. The blue beret, often worn with a badge featuring a parachute, became a symbol of the elite status of the VDV and was deeply associated with the Soviet airborne forces throughout the war in Afghanistan. The beret, which became a proud marker of distinction, was worn during both combat and ceremonial duties.

b. Backpacks and Load-Carrying Equipment

Soviet airborne troops were equipped with specialized backpacks and load-carrying gear designed to allow for rapid deployment and mobility. These packs were designed to be lightweight yet capable of carrying essential supplies, such as food, water, ammunition, and medical equipment. Soldiers were trained to operate in isolation for extended periods, and their gear allowed them to move quickly and efficiently through Afghanistan’s difficult terrain.

c. Combat Boots and Cold-Weather Gear

Given the harsh weather conditions, Soviet airborne troops were issued combat boots designed for durability and comfort in both hot and cold climates. During the winter months, when temperatures could plunge below freezing in the mountainous regions, soldiers were issued insulated cold-weather uniforms designed to protect them from the extreme cold. These included fur-lined boots, woolen clothing, and specialized headgear to provide warmth and protection during operations in the high-altitude regions of Afghanistan.

d. Parachute Equipment

As paratroopers, Soviet airborne forces also wore specialized parachute gear when conducting airborne drops. The parachute system, called the D-1, was standard for the Soviet Airborne during the Afghan War. It was designed to be reliable in extreme conditions, and soldiers were trained to parachute into enemy territory, often with little to no support, and execute rapid assaults.

5. Conclusion: The Legacy of Soviet Airborne Uniforms in Afghanistan

The uniforms worn by Soviet Airborne Forces during the Afghan War served both practical and symbolic purposes. The distinctive blue berets, the iconic telnyashka, and the specialized camouflage patterns were all part of an elite fighting force known for its skill and bravery. Over time, Soviet airborne uniforms evolved to meet the demands of the harsh Afghan environment, with adjustments in camouflage, material durability, and specialized gear.

While the uniforms themselves were designed to maximize effectiveness on the battlefield, they also became a symbol of the Soviet Union’s elite military capabilities. Today, the legacy of Soviet airborne uniforms from the Afghan War is part of the broader history of Soviet military involvement in Afghanistan, and they remain an enduring symbol of the VDV's role in one of the most difficult and challenging military campaigns of the 20th century.