British "Multicam": MTP vs Multicam

Camouflage pattern basics

The two most widespread multi-purpose camouflage patterns are the British "Multicam" (MTP) and the American Multicam. They share similar characteristics, but also have differences that affect their effectiveness in various environments. In this article we will look at the history, features and practical use of these two types of camouflage and help you make an informed choice.

Camouflage plays a key role in military operations, providing effective concealment for soldiers in different environments. Its main purpose is to make troops less visible to the enemy by minimising visual and infrared signatures. Modern combat takes place in a range of climatic conditions — from deserts and mountains to forests and urban areas. That is why the world's armies need versatile camouflage solutions.

What is British "Multicam"?

History and development of MTP

Before MTP was introduced, the British armed forces used the Disruptive Pattern Material (DPM)camouflage, which was in service from 1963 to 2010, and Desert DPM (DDPM), used from the 1990s until 2010. However, as the nature of combat and operating environments changed, a need arose for more versatile camouflage.

In 2009 the British Army tested several camouflage patterns to replace the traditional DPM. MultiCam by Crye Precision delivered the best results among the options tested. Instead of purchasing MultiCam, the British government modified it, creating the Multi-Terrain Pattern (MTP)in order to avoid dependence on an American company.

The British "Multicam" camouflage was officially introduced by the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) in 2010. It was developed on the basis of the American Multicam, but adapted to British military conditions. The main reason for creating the new pattern was to improve camouflage effectiveness in mixed environments such as Afghanistan, where desert terrain gives way to mountainous and green zones.

Today, all regulation military uniform of the British armed forces is produced exclusively in the MTP pattern, which underlines its effectiveness and versatility. According to the UK Ministry of Defence, after the introduction of MTP the rate at which personnel were detected in combat conditions fell by 35% compared with previous camouflage patterns. In 2023 an improved version was introduced — MTP 23— with a refined colour scheme and optimised texture for even more effective concealment.

Features of MTP

• Adaptability — works excellently in both woodland and desert conditions.
• Clear colour structure – allows effective concealment of the silhouette in mixed environments.
• Durability – made from materials resistant to wear and weather exposure.
• High effectiveness in real combat conditions – used by the British military in various conflicts.

Understanding Multicam

The history of Multicam

Multicam was developed by Crye Precision in the 2000s to provide effective concealment for service members across different climate zones. It was initially created to replace traditional US Army camouflage patterns such as Woodland (M81), Desert Camouflage (DCU) and Universal Camouflage Pattern (UCP). The main goal was to deliver high effectiveness in various environments without the need to change uniforms depending on the terrain. Its key feature is the smooth transition between shades, which reduces detection in mixed environments.

Multicam was initially used by US special units, and in 2010 it was officially adopted for military operations by the US Army in Afghanistan, which confirmed its versatility. The effectiveness of Multicam camouflage made it popular among military structures and law enforcement agencies worldwide. Countries that officially use Multicam in their armed forces include the USA, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Poland, the Netherlands, Norway and Ukraine. Its popularity is also growing among other armies looking for a universal camouflage solution.

Features of Multicam

• Smooth transitions between colours, which help conceal the soldier's silhouette.
• A gradient transition between shades, which makes it effective at a distance.
• High effectiveness in woodland, desert and urban conditions.
• Excellent concealment in changing light conditions.

This camouflage is recognised as one of the best universal solutions for military operations worldwide.

Comparison of MTP and Multicam

Effective use in different environments

The British "Multicam" was developed for optimal effectiveness in mixed climate zones, particularly in Europe and the Middle East. Its distinctive feature is a sharper pattern with pronounced contrasts, which makes it especially effective in woodland, urban and transitional landscapes.

Multicam, in contrast, is characterised by smooth transitions

Although both camouflage patterns are widely used for military purposes, their effectiveness depends on the specific conditions of use. MTP performs better in terrain with sharp elevation changes and contrasting areas, while Multicam works more effectively in regions with gradual landscape changes.

In British conditions, MTP camouflage proved more effective thanks to its distinct colour structure, which improves concealment in forests, cities and mixed terrain. For this reason the British Army fully switched to MTP, abandoning Multicam.

Use of MTP in Ukraine

MTP and Multicam are widely used in Ukraine, both by military and civilian users. Since the start of the armed conflict in 2014, and especially after the full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukrainian troops have actively used both patterns to improve concealment.

Ukraine's Defence Forces, including the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), the National Guard and other units, use Multicam in various versions, including official supplies from international partners. MTP camouflage is also found in units, particularly among volunteer formations and units that received aid from the United Kingdom.

Thanks to its combination of natural tones and adaptive pattern, the British "Multicam" is well suited to Ukraine's mixed terrain, which includes forests, fields, steppes and urban areas. In addition, the materials used to make MTP provide moisture resistance, which is critical in the Ukrainian autumn and winter, when the weather can change from rain to frost. These characteristics make MTP an ideal choice for use in Ukraine's varied climatic conditions.

Besides military use, these camouflage patterns have become popular with civilian users, including hunters, airsoft players and volunteers who support the military. MTP and Multicam are used across Ukraine's different climatic conditions, from dense forests and fields to urban combat, demonstrating their effectiveness and versatility.

Conclusion: Choosing the right camouflage

Although MTP and Multicam share a common origin, their adaptation to different environments makes each more effective in specific conditions. MTP is better suited to mixed terrain with sharp contrasts, while Multicam provides more universal concealment thanks to smooth colour transitions. Both patterns are widely used by military and security forces, and the choice between them depends on the specifics of the operations and the terrain where they are used.

If you are looking for a solution for military operations in the field or in built-up areas, MTP camouflage is an excellent choice. It combines durability, adaptability and effectiveness in Ukrainian conditions.

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