Flags & Flag Patches at Recon Company – Bundeswehr flags, NATO and tactical Velcro variants

In a military and official context, flags are a means of identification – not decoration. Whether it’s the classic German flag for official duties, flags of the federal states for government offices and premises, or tactical flag patches with Velcro for operational clothing and helmets: our range covers both official requirements and personal equipment. You can find further identification items in our Badges & Patches category.

Flag patches – identification in the field

Tactical flag patches with a Velcro backing are standard on operational clothing, plate carriers and helmets – particularly in multinational operations, where national affiliation must be immediately recognisable. The hook side of the Velcro fastening is on the patch, whilst the loop side is on the clothing. As regards sizes: the Bundeswehr emblem on the field jacket has the standard dimensions of 50 × 30 mm. For plate carriers and larger Velcro surfaces, 75 × 50 mm is the most common size across Europe.

Anyone wearing international flags – such as US flags – should ensure they are correctly oriented: for asymmetrical flags, there is a ‘left arm’ and a ‘right arm’ version, as stars or motifs always point in the direction of travel. In a professional context, this is not a matter of choice.

IR, subdued and full colour – the right option for the task

In the field, flag patches are often worn not in full colour but in subdued variants – olive/black, khaki/black or grey/black – so as not to compromise camouflage. IR flag patches go one step further: inconspicuous to the naked eye, but detectable under night-vision equipment. There are two types: reflective IR patches actively glow when illuminated by an IR illuminator. Non-reflective IR patches appear as a black silhouette against the rest of the kit – for situations where the IR signature needs to be minimised as well.

The German flag, the Federal Service flag and the flags of the federal states – what is permitted

The German flag (black, red and gold) is the national flag and may be flown by anyone. The federal service flag – recognisable by the federal eagle or federal coat of arms in the flag field – may only be used by official bodies. Unauthorised use by private individuals constitutes an administrative offence under Section 124 of the German Administrative Offences Act (OWiG). Our range includes all 16 federal state flags as well as the NATO flag for units and departments operating internationally. Anyone purchasing in large quantities on behalf of a public authority can benefit from our public sector discount – available on request.

Recon Service – because small items are often the most urgent orders

• ISO 9001 certification: Certified quality processes in procurement and order processing – even for small order quantities
• Field post delivery worldwide – flag patches reach personnel even when deployed abroad
• Government discount for departments and their personnel – available on request
• Expert advice from the Recon team – online or at our shop in Salzgitter