Pics of Luftwaffe Blue HBT four pocket “Tropical”? Tunic

[Planejack777]

     OK, I am now able to post some pics of the tunic I had questions on.  It is an unissued HBT, and I was told it’s a Tropical Tunic.  However, it has all the features of the standard Luftwaffe HBT tunics that you see many of in the more traditional Reed Green color.  So, might it be just an initial “Light Weight” for wear in the Summer or more moderate climates  than the Wool four pocket tunics….and not necessarily a “Tropical” or rare variant.  I believe the blue was used in all these types of tunics until end of 1943 when they switched to same cut only in the green color prior to further simplification of pockets and other features in 1944?  
      I’d appreciate any thoughts on this.  Also, why is it that you never see the Trousers in this color in the Traditional Luftwaffe “Tropical”….or any other variant?  I’ve been searching for a mint pair for years….nothing.
  

[ahrtal]

This appears to be an herringbone twill (HBT) weave, rather than the ribbed cotton weave that was used in the blue M41 Luftwaffe tropical tunic. The HBT version was originally issued as a work uniform rather than a combat or class "A" uniform. It consisted of a tunic and trousers of the Luftwaffe pattern. This was to save wear and tear on the wool uniform. It was quite popular and comfortable and, so, was worn in the field in temperate weather in place of the wool uniform. This uniform was replaced by the Reed Green cotton HBT uniform used by the Heer in  September 1943.

The M41 blue Luftwaffe ribbed cotton uniform was the official first tropical uniform. There are blue tropical long trousers, shorts, and a web belt. All very difficult to find. Here is link to my tunic.

https://www.militariacollectors.network/forums/topic/1807-m41-luftwaffe-tropical-tunic/

 

[Richard Auld]

Not really my area but as a general rule of thumb I thought all HBT were considered work/maintenance garments, even the assault artillery ones that seem to fetch a lot of money? I think I have a 4 pocket normal green one I can post when I can get into the attic.