[BUZZ RICKSON'S "BR15994" Type MA-1 "96th Bombardment Sq.2nd Bombardment Wing"]
Among the many types of flight jackets, the MA-1 stands out as the most popular and enduring.
Development of the MA-1 began in the early 1950s, building upon the foundation of the B-15 series, which had previously served as the standard-issue flight jacket.
The B-15 itself was an evolution of the cotton B-10 (introduced in 1943), having undergone various transformations to keep pace with rapid technological innovation and the advancement of military aircraft.
The resulting MA-1 model featured a major design change—the removal of the collar—a modification necessitated by the advent of jet aircraft and the resulting need to rethink aviation gear.
Adopted in 1957, the MA-1 remained a favorite among U.S. Air Force personnel until the introduction of the CWU-45/P in 1976.
Needless to say, the jacket continued to evolve and reach new levels of refinement through a series of incremental improvements during that time.
Its style has also had a profound impact on the fashion world, transcending the boundaries of military gear to become a true icon.
The 2nd Bomb Wing is one of only two B-52H Stratofortress wings currently in the U.S. Air Force.
The 96th Bombardment Squadron was reconstituted on July 1, 1947, under the Strategic Air Command and equipped with the Boeing B-29 Superfortress.
After the war, the unit trained for strategic bombing missions and, in 1948, upgraded to the newer Boeing B-50 Superfortress, which was capable of carrying atomic bombs.
In 1954, the propeller-driven B-50s were replaced by the Boeing B-47E Stratojet, a swept-wing medium bomber.
Capable of subsonic flight, the B-47E was designed primarily to penetrate Soviet airspace.
In 1963, the unit won the Fairchild Trophy, awarded to the best bombing unit for combined excellence in navigation and bombing.
Active for over 60 years, the 2nd Bomb Wing was a key component of the Strategic Air Command's heavy bomber deterrence force throughout the Cold War.
The patch features a striking design typical of the elite squadrons under the Strategic Air Command; the triangular 96th Bombardment Squadron emblem makes a powerful visual impact.
It features a size 10 Crown auto-lock zipper with a pull tab designed for easy handling even while wearing gloves.
A nylon "oxygen tab" is positioned next to the zipper to secure an oxygen mask hose, while loops are provided at the underarms to route ICS (communication system) cords.
The cigarette pocket on the left shoulder is designed to hold four pens; to prevent pen tips from tearing the fabric, a brass pen cap is installed at the bottom as a protective guard.
The meticulous reproduction of even the unseen details is a hallmark of Buzz Rickson's, a brand that owns authentic vintage originals.
It is equipped with a total of four pockets—two on the outside waist and two on the inside—all featuring easy-to-use snap-button closures.
A wind flap is attached behind the zipper to block out the wind.
Since the flap is lightly filled with wool, it features zigzag stitching to keep the insulation in place.
Wool ribbing is used for the collar, hem, and cuffs.
The cuff ribbing is made using seamless circular knitting and a combination of low-gauge and high-gauge weaves, ensuring a snug fit that effectively keeps out cold wind.
The flight jacket utilizes materials that were state-of-the-art at the time.
For the MA-1, a rugged yet flexible "heavy nylon twill" fabric is used, dyed in the military-standard Sage Green.
The lining consists of a nylon twill that is lighter than the outer shell.
Additionally, the jacket is filled with wool pile insulation, providing superior cold protection and heat retention.
*NOTE*
Components such as zippers are reproductions based on period-accurate specifications; due to their delicate construction, they may sometimes feel slightly difficult to close.
Please exercise caution, as applying excessive force may cause damage.
ITEM DATE
・Model Number: BR15994・Outer: 100% Nylon ・Lining: 100% Nylon ・Filling: 58% Wool, 42% Cotton ・Ribbing: 100% Wool ・Leather parts: Horsehide ・Made in Japan
Silhouette [Thin←1 2 3 4 5 →]Thicker
*The male model is 173cm tall and weighs 64kg; he is wearing size 38 (M).
*The female model is 175cm tall and weighs 54kg; she is wearing size 36 (S).
Size/Chest/Shoulder/Length/Hem/Sleeve/
36(S)/61cm/47cm/60cm/37cm/63cm
38(M)/63cm/49cm/62cm/39cm/65cm
40(L)/65cm/51cm/64cm/41cm/66cm
42(XL)/67cm/53cm/66cm/43cm/67cm
*The hem width is measured at the edge of the ribbing, resulting in a smaller figure; however, the material stretches to fit your body when worn.
*The measurements above were taken with the item laid flat.
We lay it on the floor, remove any wrinkles, and measure the fabric flat.
The size numbers will vary by a few centimeters depending on the individual product, the measurement method, and the amount of force used.
The size chart is therefore only a guide and may differ from the actual numbers.
*The product photos are taken with a digital camera.
Please note that color may differ slightly from the actual product due to the LCD screen, etc.
*Click here for detailed size measurement methods.
