Original Experimental U.S. Army Close Combat Uniform (CCU) Set in Urban Track Camouflage – Coat, Trousers & Helmet Cover (Size Large Regular, 2003)
Description
The Close Combat Uniform (CCU) represents one of the most critical development stages in modern U.S. military combat clothing. Engineered by the U.S. Army Soldier Systems Center in Natick around 2002–2003, it served as the direct testbed and immediate forerunner to the Army Combat Uniform (ACU). During the U.S. Army Universal Camouflage Trials, the Urban Track pattern was evaluated to determine optimal disruption across built-up urban operational environments. Following the adoption of the universal digital pattern, the trial concluded, leaving surviving Urban Track uniforms exceedingly scarce—particularly as a fully matching three-piece set with its dedicated helmet cover.
Historical Context and Design Innovation The CCU pioneered the functional architecture that transformed 21st-century combat dress: relocating cargo pockets for access under body armor, replacing external buttons with flat hook-and-loop closures to mitigate secondary fragment injuries, and integrating padded joint protection channels.
Specific Details, Architecture, and Included Components
-
CCU Combat Coat:
-
Mandarin collar lined with hook-and-loop closure, engineered to prevent chafing from body armor collars and sling webbing.
-
Dual vertical chest pockets with quick-pull tabs, fully accessible underneath tactical plate carriers.
-
Forward-facing upper sleeve bicep pockets fully layered with loop Velcro for formation patches, unit crests, and IFF glint tape.
-
Forearm dual-pen pocket on the left sleeve, Velcro wrist adjustments, and an articulated bi-swing pleated back for mobility.
-
Concealed front zipper closure backed by a Velcro-sealed storm flap.
-
-
CCU Combat Trousers:
-
Forward-canted, high-capacity thigh bellows pockets equipped with elastic shock cords and cord locks.
-
Lower calf/ankle utility pockets designed for immediate access to personal trauma bandages (IFAKs).
-
Deep front slash pockets and rear flap-covered pockets.
-
Reinforced seat panel and shaped double-layer knee pockets with bottom Velcro closures for internal neoprene protective inserts.
-
Adjustable waist tabs and drawstring ankle cuffs.
-
-
MICH/ACH Helmet Cover:
-
Cut specifically for MICH / ACH ballistic helmet profiles.
-
Buttonhole slits along the crown and sides for mounting natural foliage and scrim.
-
Rear retention flap for tactical goggle straps and interior Velcro tabs for locking under internal suspension pads.
-
-
Specification Labels & Markings:
-
Coat & Trousers Label: CLOSE COMBAT UNIFORM (CCU)
-
Coat Sizing: SIZE: LARGE - REGULAR (Height: 67 to 71 in / Chest: 41 to 45 in).
-
Trouser Sizing: SIZE: LARGE - REGULAR (Inseam: 29 1/2 to 32 1/2 in / Waist: 35 to 39 in).
-
Trial Contract Number: DAAD16-03-F-0160 (dated 2003).
-
Both uniform labels feature original evaluation marking letter D.
-
-
Condition: Authentic issued/trial condition in museum-grade preservation. Colors on the Urban Track pattern remain vibrant and crisp, Ripstop weave is completely intact with no tears, holes, or fraying, and all hardware and Velcro operate as new.
