Tactical Paint Schemes
the letters and numerals is constant. It is always
one-sixth of the height of the letter or numeral. This
Tactical paint schemes are used for deception, for
distance is always measured from the point on each of
reduction of detection range, or to confuse and mislead
the letters or numerals that is nearest the other.
observers. Tactical paint scheme patterns are applied to
an aircraft to lessen the probability of visual or
National Insignia
photographic detection. This applies to an aircraft that
The national insignia consists of a white,
is in flight or on the ground. The patterns are based on
five-pointed star inside a blue circumscribed circle. A
optical principles and use nonreflective colors, color
white rectangle, one radius of the blue circle in length
configurations, and color proportions. Arbitrary
and one-half the radius of the blue circle in width, is
applications of markings and color schemes will reduce
located on each side of the star. The top edges of the
the effect of tactical paint schemes and should not be
rectangle form a straight line with the top edges of the
used. All tactical paint schemes should comply with
horizontal two-star points beneath the top start point. A
Paint Schemes and Exterior Markings for U.S. Navy
red horizontal stripe one-sixth of the radius of the star is
and Marine Corps Aircraft, MIL-STD-2161(AS),
centered in the white rectangles at each end of the
a n d Fi n i s h e s , O r g a n i c , We a p o n s S y s t e m s ,
insignia. A blue border, one-eighth the radius of the
MIL-F-18264D(AS). Tactical paint schemes are
blue circle in width, outlines the entire design. When
usually comprised of either two or three shades of gray
the insignia is applied on a sea blue, dark blue, or black
or blue.
background, the blue circle and border may be omitted.
The standard material for the tactical paint scheme
The inside edge of each interior rectangle is concave
coating system and common insignia and marking
and has the same arc as the inside blue circle. The inside
application is lusterless MIL-C-83286 aliphatic
edge of each outer rectangle should not be depicted.
polyurethane. Decals may be used instead of paint for
See figure 5-32. You may refer to MIL-STD-2161(AS)
insignia and markings provided they are made of a
for more information on the national insignia.
Figure 5-32.--National star insignia.
5-32
