Para smock belge camouflage Denison 1956 Congo SAS coup de tendance brosse aéroporté 50" poitrine

1956 Belgium Camouflage Parachute Smock: Post war camo smock with label inside dated 1956 , complete zip and studs.

50” chest

You are buying a old Belgian army moon & balls camo para smock. Period 1950's and 1960's. The one used by the elite Para Commandos. Mainly were used in the colonial conflict in the Congo by the Belgians. However, it would not be uncommon to see it used by Rhodesians, South Africans and mercenaries in Rhodesia, Zimbawe, Angola, Mozambique, Guinea, Namibia etc.. Featuring the moon & balls pattern. One of the most beautiful and effective camouflages of its time that is currently a classic and timeless. Reminiscent of the old Denison smocks, these are a very heavy duty and unusual smock.

Following the 2nd World War the Belgian Army began designing and making its own uniforms again. The popularity of the Denison smock, which this jacket so clearly takes its influence from, was such that many countries decided to design their own. Like its British counterpart the smock features a printed camouflage pattern, usually referred to as "moon & balls". The colours and pattern are not too dissimilar to the British smock of the World War II but are distinctly Belgian. The general cut and design also follows the Denison quite closely with four patch pockets to the front and a fish tail to the rear. The jacket features a middle torso zip front which is covered by a fly. The zip is metal and the puller is marked Riri who were a prolific manufacturer of zips for many years.

Features:

Belgian 1950's Congo camo smock similar to British WWII denison style coat

Old WWII type camo patterns dating from the 1950s

"moon & balls" camo pattern is the earlier type and was produced from 1950 - 1956

"brushstroke" camo pattern is the later pattern & was produced from 1954 - 1975

Tough hard-wearing cotton material - built to last! (60+ years & still going strong!)

Sturdy metal zip front closure

Has storm flap over zip

2 Large chest pockets with 1 press-stud or button closure

2 Large lower pockets with 1 press-stud or button closure

Armpit vents to reduce heat buildup

Epaulettes to carry the beret, cap, scarf or place badges

Beaver tail for parachute jumping

Ideal for re-enactors / fancy dress

These are designed as over-smocks / paratrooper jump smocks to be worn over woollen battle dress & are quite roomy

The coat is in overall good used condition. It only has a hole in the cuff of the sleeve. The colors are subdued, offering a beautiful patina. It has all the original plastic buttons and all the metal snap fasteners close correctly. The tag has been removed. Made by A.M.S. for A.B.L. (Armeé Belge/Belgisch Leger). Dated between 1950 and 1956.