Soviet Motostrelki Ryadovoi with Gear, Obr1969/73

Soviet Motorized Rifles Private, Obrazyets 1969/73 Regulations.

Country: USSR

Date: 1973 - Early 1990's

Branch: Motostrelki (Motorized Rifles)

Rank: Ryadovoi (Private)

Location: USSR

In a follow up regulation to the Obr1969 uniform, the Obr1969/73 Prikaz called for the khaki Service Uniform to be produced from a slightly different material as well as have branch of service ciphers added to the Pogoni (Shoulder Boards). In this case, the Cyrillic "CA" for Soviet Army. This Soldat wears the standard field equipment configuration for all Motostrelki Soldatyi serving in the Soviet Union and satellite countries. 

The equipment consists of an impregnated canvas Y-Strap Complex, faux leather equipment belt with a brass buckle (this was later changed to a subdued buckle in later years), an AKM/AK-74 Magazine Pouch, two-cell grenade pouch, AKM/AK-74 Bayonet (at Commander's discretion), canteen, entrenching tool, and Plasch-Palatka (Poncho/Shelter Half) rolled up into the strap of the Y-Straps.

Clearly seen here is the name tag affixed to the grenade pouch. These were often seen in either thing wood or white linen cloth and were affixed to all wide assortment of a Soldier's personal equipment. The collar liner has come loose due to some rather lax stitching in this photo. No doubt the Starshina will beat it out of this Soldat later....