00144 - P83 Chest Rig

00144 - P83 Chest Rig. During the Cold War, South Africa found itself actively engaged in counterinsurgency wars while much of Europe focused on nuclear politics. The South African Defense Force (SADF) played a crucial role in these conflicts, developing and refining tactics, weapons, and equipment. In the 1960s and 1970s, the SADF utilized the domestically produced Pattern 61/64 and Pattern 70 load-bearing systems, which were derived from the British Pattern 58 and worked well with the FN FAL (R1) rifle. However, these systems proved bulky, uncomfortable, and limited in modularity. As the SADF adopted the 5.56x45 Galil (R4) rifle, they recognized the need for a lightweight, user-friendly load-bearing equipment that could match the capabilities of communist forces armed with AK-47s and "Chicom" chest rigs. To address this requirement, the Pattern 83 system (Pat 83) was developed in collaboration with the South African outdoors industry. Comprising a chest rig, load-bearing harness with an assault pack, and a large backpack with a detachable external frame, the Pat 83 system offered versatility for various mission types. It gained recognition for its simplicity, ergonomic design, and innovative use of new materials and technologies, making it ahead of its time.

Museum-quality posters made on thick matte paper. Add a wonderful accent to your room and office with these posters that are sure to brighten any environment.

• Paper thickness: 0.26 mm (10.3 mil)
• Paper weight: 189 g/m²
• Opacity: 94%
• ISO brightness: 104%
• 21 × 30 cm posters are size A4
• Paper sourced from Japan