Original East German Cold War Era M58 Flächentarn “Blumentarn” Camouflage Utility Uniform Set – Blouse and Trousers Dated 1964 Original Items

Original Items: Only One Set Available. Like many nations of the Warsaw Pact, the German Democratic Republic, or East Germany, was heavily influenced by Soviet models in their development of military uniforms and equipment. The earliest camouflage patterns used by the DDR were essentially Soviet in design, while later “rain” patterns were more likely influenced by WW2 German models. A popular uprising in 1989 led to the downfall of the Communist regime and reunification of East and West Germany. This led to the integration of East Germany’s military forces into those of West Germany, and the dissolution of the Nationale Volksarmee (NVA), or East German Army.

The earliest camouflage uniform produced specifically for the DDR was based on the WW2 Soviet two-color MKK (maskirovochnyi kamuflirovannyi kostium) and was produced locally. The lightweight fabric and distinctively Soviet style were discarded in later East German designs. Known colloquially as M49 sowjetische tarnbekleidung or Russisches tarnmuster (Russian camouflage), it was a tricolor pattern with large brown and russet amoebic blotches on a khaki background, and saw issue until approximately 1957. In addition to the two-piece pullover uniform, this pattern was also printed on heavier-weight canvas material used for a zeltbahn. Although most surviving examples are in used condition, it is apparent that the dyes used to print these patterns were not thoroughly consistent, producing several minor color variations over time.

The M58 Flächentarn pattern was issued between 1956 and 1967 to units in the East German Army (NVA) and Ministry of Interior (MDI). Also nicknamed Kartoffelmuster (potato camouflage) or Blumentarn (flower camouflage), the pattern generally consists of blue-green, olive green & brown ragged blotches on a field grey background. Several mild color variations have been documented, some of which may appear darker due to their having been coated in anti-gas chemicals (which also gave the fabric a waxy texture). Several types of jacket, trousers, field equipment, shelter half and hood/helmet cover were produced in this pattern.

One of the most sought after patterns amongst camouflage collectors is the early DDR East German Blumentarn. This is quite possibly the finest set we have ever located, and in a large size!

This great set of Blumentarn is in excellent condition. There are no holes, tears or stains on any piece of this grouping. All buttons are intact. Both the blouse and trousers are very nicely marked and are both dated 1964.

This wonderful set comes more than ready for display!

Approximate Measurements:
Collar to shoulder: 11”
Shoulder to sleeve: 24”
Shoulder to shoulder: 20”
Chest width: 24”
Waist width: 22”
Hip width: 24”
Front length: 29″

Pants Waist: 38″
Pants Inseam: 29″