CWU-45, given a new life in the 70s

Alpha has always played a leading role in the development of military clothing. Just think of the development of the orange lining, which saved lives during a botched mission, or the production of MA-1 jackets in green. So it is no surprise that when creating flight jackets, they also looked for opportunities to use new materials.

In the 1960s, the DuPont company developed its NOMEX material, which, with its excellent flame retardancy and light weight, perfectly met Alpha's expectations. That is why in the 1970s it was used to modify the CWU jackets long used by pilots. The older types, used by the military since the 1950s, were made of nylon, which is very poor in terms of flame retardancy as it burns almost like grease. In a cramped cockpit during an emergency, it is really important that the jacket worn by the pilot can withstand thermal stress for a long time. The CWU-36/P, which was lighter and used in warmer weather, and the CWU-45/P, worn by soldiers on cold days, were the perfect choice for utilizing the new fabric.

The 100% special nylon material is completely water-repellent for maximum dryness and comfort. Beneath the outer layer of the jacket is a double lining that keeps you warm on cold days. The outer material of the jacket even resists cigarette ashes; it is a truly high-quality, durable fabric.

Word of the high-quality material spread quickly, leading to Alpha receiving a major order from the US military to manufacture the two jacket models. Later, it seemed only natural that in the film about the daily lives of pilots, Top Gun, lead actor Tom Cruise would wear a CWU jacket. Thanks to the film released in 1986, Alpha also entered the fashion industry, as the CWU models they made could now be worn not just by soldiers, but purchased by anyone. The leather version of the CWU-45/P began production in the mid-1990s.

The most important identifying features of CWU jackets are the rounded collar and two huge map pockets, which can hold a truly vast amount of items. Over time, to meet changing demands, more and more improved models retaining the shape of the basic jacket have hit the market. Thus, today we can choose from a narrower cut and a wider variety of colours and camouflage patterns.

You can view our range of CWU jackets here: CWU models