More about the uniform...

The khaki version of the M-1972 uniform was introduced in the early 1980's based on the needs of the war in Afghanistan.  It is identical in cut to the earlier black M-1972 Armor Crew Summer Coveralls, only different in color.  This change not only helped reduce the visibility to the armor soldiers, but the lighter color was also less prone to absorb heat.

Two production variations have been observed.  One lacks any epaulettes on the shoulders, while the second variation has epaulette loops with button closures.  As with all armor coveralls, rank insignia were not worn - in Soviet times they were only worn in staged photography shoots for military newspapers. (2)

The jacket retained the standard PM Makarov holster in the left breast pocket.  The right breast pocket could be used to hold spare magazines or other small items.

The trousers feature two open pockets at the waist and two thigh pockets with single snap button closures.  The belt is identical to the earlier black version with a brass buckle and reinforced rings.  Stirrups at the end of each leg are fitted with a button fastener to improve the fit of the trousers when bloused into boots.

Service Chronology

Derived from the two piece armor crew coveralls introduced in 1972, the khaki pattern was introduced sometime in the 1980's in response to the war in Afghanistan.

The exact date of introduction is difficult to determine as it was poorly documented.  It continued to be used immediately after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.

It is likely that it was replaced in the early 1990's by the M-1994 VSR camouflage coveralls though it may have persisted in arid regions.