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Speaking of transitional, this is a transitional cap (From "Under The Red Star"):
Russian Army
Transitional Officer Service
1992-1994
Finally, I have included this cap as an end-point to my display. Following the dissolution of the USSR in 1991, the Soviet Army began considering uniform changes to reflect the now "Russian" nature of the force. This process has been long and torturous; still not complete over 10 years later (specifically some Naval officers continue to wear Soviet-era cockades on their caps). One of the first elements of the conversion was adoption of a new, more "western" looking uniform that would be used for both service and parade (with minor accessory changes). The uniform chosen was actually one being considered for adoption by the Army prior to the fall of Communism. To a Soviet uniform collector, this was a very sad change of affairs! In my opinion, one of the nicest uniformed militaries in the world lost much of its Russian heritage, even as it tried to celebrate its formation. In any case, this cap represents the first model cap accompanying this uniform. I acquired it in Moscow in June 1992, before its general issue to the Army (it was the first one my Russian escort officer had actually seen as well). The Soviet connection had still not been totally cut at this time, as evidenced by the normal Soviet officer's cockade and gold "Soviet Army" buttons. However, colored bands were eliminated, with both crown and band now a greenish-khaki matching the uniform. The band had a gray-green ribbon cover similar in concept to that found on the naval cap, but with a distinct "checkerboard" pattern (this ribbon band was dropped on later Russian caps). Red piping was standardized for all Army officers regardless of branch. Similar caps remain in Russian Army service today but these typically have an even larger crown, no band ribbon and are adorned with new Russian cockades, eagles and buttons. Available
Last edited by willie777; 02-17-2007 at 04:13 PM.
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12-21-2006, 08:03 PM
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