This is a CWU-45/P flight jacket from the 1990 contract. The size is the popular MEDIUM (38-40). It was manufactured just before the start of the Gulf War, during a period when the U.S. military was strengthening its rapid-response capabilities around the world.
The CWU-45/P was adopted in the late 1970s and was used for many years by U.S. Air Force units as a cold-weather flight jacket to replace the MA-1.Made from flame-retardant aramid (Nomex) fabric, this iconic flight jacket balanced fire resistance with thermal insulation, making it highly practical and widely favored not only by the Air Force but also by the Navy, Marine Corps, and even the Army Aviation Corps. As of 1990, it was still in active service as the primary jacket for flight crew.
What makes this item particularly interesting is that it features a patch believed to originate from the Army Air Corps on an Air Force-spec CWU-45/P.
A subdued unit insignia is present on the right shoulder, a separate Velcro-backed patch on the left shoulder, a name tape on the left chest, and remnants of Velcro for a name tape on the right chest—all of which strongly convey the atmosphere of its actual use in aviation units.Although the CWU-45/P was an Air Force-adopted item, numerous instances of its issuance and use by Army Air Corps units have been confirmed, so this combination itself is not out of place.
The patch on the right shoulder is a subdued version of the 3rd Infantry Division patch featuring three diagonal stripes. For this reason, we will not attempt to make a specific identification of this item but will present it as an authentic patch that was actually attached at the time. The Velcro on the left shoulder may have been used to swap out national insignia or unit patches depending on the mission.
The contract period of 1990 coincided with the transition from the Gulf Crisis to the Gulf War, a time when U.S. Air Force assets were deployed on a global scale. Given this historical context, this jacket—as an actual field-used item—is a highly appealing piece.
The jacket shows signs of use typical of a field-tested item but has no major damage. It features a GRIPPER zipper on the front and SCOVILL zippers on the sleeve pockets. The ribbing is in good condition, making it suitable for both wear and collection. The tag still bears a handwritten note that appears to be the name of the original owner, adding a sense of history unique to an authentic piece.This jacket shows signs of fading and wear.
Although it is an Air Force issue item, this CWU-45/P is packed with historical details and specification changes unique to the combat era, suggesting it may have been used by Army Air Corps units. As a piece that symbolizes U.S. military aviation gear from the early 1990s, we highly recommend adding this jacket to your collection.
Please note that returns are not accepted for used items.
Size (measured flat)
Shoulder width: 50 cm
Chest width: 55 cm
Length: 62 cm
Sleeve Length: 63 cm
