Original 1943 Dated Indian Made British Aertex Battledress Jacket

Code: 52471

An original WW2 Indian made British Aertex Battledress Jacket as used by a variety of British and Commenwealth servicemen in the latter part of the war. 

This pattern of jacket was introduced in 1943 alongside the KD Battledress trousers. It is made from cellular cotton, often referred to as 'Aertex', which is a lightweight, breathable fabric which is ideally suited to hot climates. Based loosely on the woolen battledress the tunic is cut in a short 'blouson' style and features a full button front and waist belt. As well as this it features pleated chest pockets and an inner pocket. As this blouse was designed to be worn against the skin the button which fastens to the inner pocket is reversed and fastens through the inside of the breast pocket, meaning that the button can't rub on the wearers skin. All the buttons are the coconut husk type often seen on Indian made clothing and the waist buckle is a chromium plated example. A corporal stripe has been fitted to the right sleeve.

Inside the jacket the original manufacturers markings are still present. The usual circular date stamp often found in Indian made items is present and bears the date of November 1943. Another date stamp can be seen to the left of this which again states 1943 as the year of manufacture. There is also the number 8 which denotes the size. 

The jacket is a larger size and will fit a 40" chest depending on desired fit and when laid flat measures - 

Chest - 24"
Waist - 18"
Inside arm - 21 1/2"
Outside arm - 25"
Shoulders - 17"
Length - 21"

The jacket is in fine condition and appears to be un-issued and unworn. It displays extremely well but may have small issues commensurate with age. 

All in all a very nice example of this pattern of jacket with good date stamps. This would be very hard to better!