Coat, Man's, Cotton W/R RIP-STP POPLIN OG 107 - L-R - 1969 - NOS

This T61-5 body armor, officially designated MIL-A-43197, represents a fascinating chapter in military equipment history. Developed in the mid-1960s, the T61-5 was designed to be a more ergonomic and flexible successor to the older M1952A model. Its innovative construction featured over 100 individual titanium plates, intended to provide superior protection and comfort.

Although it officially became the U.S. Army's standard-issue vest "on paper" in 1965, it never saw widespread adoption in reality. With the escalation of the Vietnam War, the T61-5 proved too expensive and complex to manufacture for mass deployment. The Army instead opted for a simpler, cheaper, updated version of the M1952A (the "3/4 collar" model).

Despite being an Army design, the T61-5 found its primary use elsewhere. It became characteristic equipment for the U.S. Navy's "Brown Water Navy" units operating in the rivers and coastal areas of Vietnam from 1966 onwards. It was also used by some U.S. Army mechanized infantry, armor, and armored cavalry units between 1969-1971.

Key Features:

• Official Designation: MIL-A-43197

• Common Name: T61-5 Composite Armor

• Standard Publication Date: Feb. 10, 1964

• Construction: Composite material with over 100 titanium plates

• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement

• Primary Users: US Navy ("Brown Water Navy"), US Army mechanized units in Vietnam

This vest is an exceptional and rare collector's item, documenting the push for innovation in personal protection during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.

Used jacket (Coat, Man's, Camouflage Cotton, Wind Resistant Poplin, Class 2) in ERDL Brown Dominant camouflage. Size Medium Regular. Label with year of manufacture and production missing.

Medium Short, late Vietnam or early 70's dress, 101st ABN with hemmed edge, name tag and "army" silk.

Used M1956 holster for two magazines for the Colt 1911 pistol. The holster has been repaired, see photo.

Unused USMC Field Pack, Canvas Combat. There are small spots on the back, see photo.

Used blouse (Coat, Man's, Cotton, Wind Resistant Rip-Stop Poplin). Size Medium Long. Contract DSA 100-68-C-2821. Army and name patch are "in country made". The Special Forces shoulder patch is a regular Army issue. Blouse has several repairs see photo.

M9A1 gas mask in an original unopened can.

Unused cotton chin strap for M1 helmet. Infantry variant.

US field bottle, 1 quart, from 1966. Cover with cotton trim and drinking cup.

Used Waterproof Coat, Man's, Nylon, Rubber Coated, Green M-2. Size 36 R (roughly equivalent to Medium). Contract DSA-1-229-C-62. Rubberization is scuffed on one side.

Original "shrapnel vest" Armor, Body, Fragmentation Protective with 3/4 Collar (RVNAF). This type of vest was made in the USA for ARVN needs. The size is marked M, but according to the sizing for the ARVN. Contract DSA 100-70-C-0126. Stock condition.

For collector's purposes only - ballistic protection is not guaranteed.