Military ponchos and ghillie suits from Recon Company – protection from the elements and camouflage for the field

A military poncho is one of the few items of kit that has remained unchanged for decades. Quick to throw on, it covers the body and kit, can be pitched as an emergency shelter and weighs less than a kilogram. With over 30 years’ experience in supplying the authorities, we stock everything from the Bundeswehr poncho with IRR coating to the complete ghillie suit – everything that emergency services and field soldiers need for protection against the wet and for camouflage.

BW poncho with IRR coating: the Bundeswehr standard

The BW poncho in accordance with TL 8305-0290 is the benchmark product in this category. Three-layer laminate made of polyamide, water column 15,000 mm, breathability 10,000 g/m²/24h, tape-sealed seams. The IRR coating reduces the infrared signature so that the poncho does not appear as a bright spot when viewed through night-vision devices. Eight reinforced attachment points with loops, a helmet-compatible hood with bungee cord, and side press studs for fastening. When combined with a poncho liner , it becomes a lightweight summer sleeping bag. Weight: around 710 grams. This is a German Armed Forces rain poncho made from the very highest quality materials.

Those who do not require this level of performance can opt for the ripstop models. Pentagon, Viper and Mil-Tec supply camouflage ponchos in Flecktarn, Woodland or Phantomleaf WASP from 22 euros. Polyester ripstop with a PU coating: waterproof enough for a rain shower in the field, but without a membrane or IRR protection. This is perfectly adequate for basic training, reserve exercises and outdoor use. It is not suitable for use under night-vision conditions.

Poncho liner: the underrated second half of the system

A poncho liner is not an optional accessory, but a standalone insulating layer. The quilted blanket can be attached to the poncho with a press stud, transforming it into a sleeping bag. Without the poncho, the liner functions as a lightweight quilt in a bivouac, as a mat on a cold ground, or as a warming wrap at an observation post.

The BW Poncho Liner in Flecktarn costs under 30 euros and serves its purpose in moderate temperatures. Snugpak’s Insulated Liner features a synthetic filling that provides insulation even when wet, making the system usable well into autumn. Helikon combines both directly into one system with the Swagman Roll Poncho and Liner. Anyone who sleeps outdoors more often than indoors should view the poncho and liner as a single unit, rather than as separate items.

Ghillie suit: when camouflage is paramount

A ghillie suit is neither weather protection nor a garment in the traditional sense. It is a means of camouflage. The mesh or jute strap system breaks up the human silhouette and makes the wearer visually disappear into the terrain. In our range, you’ll find the Jackal Ghillie Suit as a three-piece set in Woodland: jacket, trousers and hood.

Important to note: A ghillie suit offers no insulation whatsoever and no protection against the wet. In the rain, the material soaks up water and becomes heavy. Weather protection and warmth come from the layers worn underneath. Freedom of movement is restricted due to the design. The product is aimed at reconnaissance personnel, snipers and hunters who remain in one position for extended periods. For combat operations whilst on the move, the camouflage poncho is the more practical solution.

You can find suitable camouflage nets and tarpaulins for stationary positions under ‘Tarps and Camouflage Nets’. Full protection against the elements in the form of a jacket is available in the ‘Hardshell Jackets’ section.

• 10% discount for government agencies and members of the BOS. Proof of eligibility is required when ordering.
• Worldwide field post delivery directly to any Bundeswehr deployment location.
• Personalised product advice from the Recon team, by telephone, email or in person in Salzgitter.
• All processes are ISO 9001 certified: independently audited from incoming goods inspection through to dispatch authorisation.