East Germany's Iconic Rain Pattern Camouflage

Strichtarn, commonly known as the Rain Pattern or Rain Camouflage, was the standard camouflage pattern of the East German National People's Army (Nationale Volksarmee, or NVA) for more than two decades. Characterized by its simple vertical "rain" streaks printed over a muted green background, Strichtarn became one of the most recognizable military camouflage patterns of the Cold War.

While its appearance is minimalist compared to modern camouflage systems, Strichtarn reflected a practical approach to concealment and remains a favorite among military historians, collectors, and Cold War enthusiasts.

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Quick Facts

• Country of Origin: East Germany (German Democratic Republic)
• Introduced: 1965
• Primary User: National People's Army (NVA)
• Environment: Woodland, grassland, and temperate European terrain
• Pattern Type: Linear "Rain Pattern" camouflage
• Status: Historic military camouflage

The Origins of Strichtarn

Following World War II, East Germany sought to develop its own military identity while drawing upon lessons learned from earlier German camouflage systems. Designers looked to the vertical "rain" overprint used in wartime camouflage such as Splittertarn and Sumpfmuster, simplifying the concept into an entirely new pattern.

The result was Strichtarn, a practical camouflage optimized for mass production and everyday military use.

Pattern Characteristics

Unlike camouflage that relies on leaves, brushstrokes, or digital pixels, Strichtarn is built around thousands of short vertical streaks printed over a muted background.

The classic version consists primarily of:

• Gray-Green Background
• Dark Green Vertical Streaks
• Brown Highlights (on some production runs)

The vertical lines help break up the human outline while blending with grass, reeds, brush, and woodland vegetation.

Designed for Central Europe

Strichtarn was intended for the varied landscapes of East Germany, including:

• Mixed forests
• Grasslands
• Agricultural fields
• River valleys
• Woodland

Its subdued color palette allowed it to perform effectively throughout much of the year.

Service During the Cold War

For more than twenty-five years, Strichtarn served as the standard field camouflage of the National People's Army.

It appeared on:

• Combat uniforms
• Field jackets
• Trousers
• Helmet covers
• Protective clothing
• Military equipment

Although East Germany ceased to exist in 1990 following German reunification, Strichtarn remains closely associated with the Warsaw Pact and the Cold War era.

Legacy and Collectibility

Large quantities of East German military surplus entered the civilian market after reunification, making Strichtarn familiar to collectors around the world. Its simple yet distinctive appearance has helped it remain one of the most recognizable Cold War camouflage patterns.

Today, original uniforms continue to be collected by military historians, reenactors, and camouflage enthusiasts.

Strichtarn at CAMO HQ

At CAMO HQ, Strichtarn represents a fascinating chapter in camouflage history. Its clean, understated design illustrates how effective camouflage can be achieved through simplicity rather than complexity.

Our Strichtarn-inspired collection honors the history of this iconic East German camouflage while preserving an important piece of Cold War military heritage.

Did You Know?

• Strichtarn is commonly called "Rain Pattern" because of its vertical streaks.
• It became the standard camouflage of East Germany's National People's Army in 1965.
• Its design traces its roots to the rain overprint used on Germany's WWII Splittertarn and Sumpfmuster patterns.
• Original East German Strichtarn uniforms remain popular with collectors and reenactors.