You guys sure have noticed that US marines now is wearing a new set of camourflage BDU, known as MARPAT. Why do they switch from the old set to a new one?
MARPAT (short for MARine Disruptive PATtern) is a pixelated camouflage pattern in use by the United States Marine Corps, introduced with the Marine Corps Combat Utility Uniform (MCCUU), which replaced the Battle Dress Uniform. The pattern is formed by a number of small rectangular pixels of color. In theory, it is a far more effective camouflage than standard uniform patterns because it mimics the dappled textures and rough boundaries found in natural settings. This is caused by how the human eye interacts with pixelated images. It is also known as the “digital pattern” or “digi-cammies” because of its micropattern (pixels) rather than the old macropattern (big blobs).
The United States Marine Corps has patented MARPAT[1], and registered the trademark “MARPAT”. By regulation, the pattern and items incorporating it, such as the MCCUU and ILBE backpack, are to be supplied by authorized manufacturers only and are not for general commercial sale, although imitations are available. Authentic MARPAT material is distinguishable by a Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem incorporated into the pattern.

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