The Soviet Union's Legendary "Sun-Ray" Camouflage

KLMK is one of the most iconic camouflage patterns ever developed by the Soviet Union. Introduced during the late 1960s, KLMK became the standard camouflage oversuit for Soviet reconnaissance units, airborne forces, Spetsnaz, border guards, and other specialized troops operating throughout the Cold War.

Known by collectors as the "Sun-Ray Pattern" because of its distinctive vertical streaks, KLMK remains one of the most recognizable Soviet camouflage systems ever produced.

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Quick Facts

• Country of Origin: Soviet Union
• Introduced: 1968
• Primary Users: Soviet Army, Spetsnaz, Airborne Forces (VDV), Border Guards
• Environment: Woodland, grassland, and mixed terrain
• Pattern Type: Two-color disruptive oversuit camouflage
• Status: Historic military camouflage

What Does KLMK Mean?

KLMK is an abbreviation of the Russian term Kamuflirovannyy Letniy Maskirovochnyy Kombinezon, which translates roughly to "Camouflaged Summer Concealment Suit."

Rather than serving as a standard combat uniform, KLMK was designed as a lightweight oversuit that could be worn over existing field uniforms to improve concealment.

The Development of KLMK

During the 1960s, Soviet military planners sought a camouflage pattern specifically intended for reconnaissance and special operations personnel. The emphasis was placed on simplicity, lightweight construction, and effective concealment across a variety of temperate environments.

The result was KLMK, a pattern that relied on a repeating network of small geometric shapes printed over a light-colored background.

Why Is It Called the "Sun-Ray" Pattern?

Collectors often refer to KLMK as the Sun-Ray Pattern because its repeating vertical elements resemble rays of sunlight passing through trees.

The visual effect helps break up the human outline while blending naturally with grasses, brush, and woodland vegetation.

Pattern Characteristics

KLMK is surprisingly simple compared to many modern camouflage systems.

The classic version consists of:

• Light Khaki or Tan Background
• Dark Green Geometric Overlay

The repeating shapes create a layered visual texture that remains effective without relying on multiple colors.

Military Service

KLMK was widely issued throughout the Soviet Armed Forces, particularly among units requiring enhanced concealment.

It was commonly worn by:

• Spetsnaz special operations units
• Soviet Airborne Forces (VDV)
• Reconnaissance troops
• Border Guards
• Snipers
• Special reconnaissance teams

KLMK also appeared during the Soviet-Afghan War, where its lightweight construction made it particularly useful in warm climates.

A Foundation for Later Soviet Camouflage

KLMK marked an important step in the evolution of Soviet camouflage. Although later patterns such as Berezka, VSR-93, Flora, and EMR introduced additional colors and more complex designs, KLMK demonstrated the effectiveness of lightweight concealment garments tailored to specific missions.

Its influence can still be seen in many modern Russian camouflage concepts.

Collector Interest

Original KLMK oversuits remain highly sought after by collectors because of their Cold War history and association with elite Soviet military units. Their lightweight construction and unique appearance have made them a favorite among military historians and reenactors.

KLMK at CAMO HQ

At CAMO HQ, KLMK represents one of the defining camouflage patterns of the Soviet era. Its simple yet highly effective design reflects the practical philosophy behind Soviet field equipment and remains one of the most influential camouflage systems ever developed by the USSR.

Our KLMK-inspired collection honors this historic camouflage while preserving an important chapter in Cold War military history.

Did You Know?

• KLMK stands for Kamuflirovannyy Letniy Maskirovochnyy Kombinezon.
• It was designed as an oversuit rather than a standard combat uniform.
• The pattern is commonly called the "Sun-Ray Pattern" by collectors.
• KLMK was widely used by Soviet Spetsnaz, VDV, and reconnaissance units.