South African Defence Force (SADF) RECCE Operator, Angola 1987

 South African Defence Force (SADF) RECCE Operator, 

Angola 1987

South African Recces were special forces who infiltrated deep into enemy lines during the Border Wars. They often wore a mix of copies of enemy camouflage uniforms and caps. As equipment a mix of clandestine South African produced equipment or captured equipment was used. No recce looked the same.

The Recces often cammoed their faces black with "black is beautiful" creme. This was to blend in with the black population. Note the contrast of blue eyes and blond hair and beard!

This example wears the following:

South African Recce copy cap of Syrian camouflage:

South African Recce copy jacket of Tanzanian DPM camouflage:

Sout African Recce copy trousers  of Cuban Elm Leaf camouflage:

South African Civilian "Tarzan" Boots:

Copy of a South African manufactured "Niemöller Vest", made in the original factory by Kommandostore. This is a copy, the original is very rare, but on my search list. I have camouflaged the vest with mud. This is the only item of this ensemble which isn't authentic:

Orginal Small Niemoller Backpack:

Transport bag for weapons used by South African special forces:

Rest of equipment:

Chest

Chestrigs were popular with the Recces, this is a captured Chinese Chicom chestrig for AK magazines. Many were copied in South Africa, but with inprovised closure tabs or buttons

This example wears a captured Chinese Army canteen, often used by the insurgents:

Many types of knives were used, this is an American K-Bar knife, attached to the vest with tape:

Gloves were often worn, many different types: