Type 21 Pattern Guide

China's Type 21 uniform system introduced in 2021 represents the most significant overhaul of PLA and PAP dress and field kit in over a decade. Type 21 introduced five distinct patterns, each tailored to a specific operational environment or service branch.
Understanding the differences between these patterns helps you choose the right kit whether you're building an accurate collector's display, gearing up for a specific environment, or simply want to know what you're looking at. Browse the full Type 21 collection to see every pattern and piece in stock.

Overview

The Type 21 series represents a significant modernisation of Chinese military camouflage, replacing earlier patterns such as the Type 07. The series is designed to provide effective concealment across a range of terrains and environments, with each variant optimised for specific conditions.

Patterns in the Series

Type 21 Jungle

Overview
The standard pattern for PLA ground troops. Layered deep greens broken up by earth-brown tones give it excellent concealment in forested, subtropical, and temperate environments. This is the most widely issued Type 21 variant and covers the broadest range of uniforms and equipment. Browse the Type 21 Summer Combat Uniform in Jungle to get started.

Type 21 Arid/Desert

The arid variant is optimised for dry, open terrain such as desert and semi-arid environments. The palette shifts to lighter tans, sandy yellows, and muted browns to blend with sparse, sun-bleached landscapes. Shop the Type 21 Summer Combat Uniform in Desert.

Type 21 Urban/Island

One of the most visually striking Type 21 patterns and also the rarest, the Urban/Island variant uses a cool blue-grey palette issued to PLA Navy Marine Corps and amphibious units. The desaturated tones blend into concrete, rocky coastlines, and coastal vegetation — environments central to PLA amphibious doctrine. Also known informally as the 'Blue' or 'Maritime' pattern. The rarest of the Type 21 series. Fabric for this variant was produced in low quantities and therefore Urban/Island items usually cost more. See the Type 21 Tactical Vest in Urban/Island.

Type 21 PAP Summer

The warm-weather uniform of China's People's Armed Police a paramilitary force responsible for internal security, border patrol, and public order. Similar to MC Tropic, it's distinguished by a more pronounced olive-gold highlight colour that gives it a slightly warmer, lighter feel overall. Browse the Type 21 Assault Pack in PAP Summer.

Type 21 PAP Winter

The cold-weather counterpart to PAP Summer, this pattern pairs muted grey-browns with off-white tones for use in snow-influenced, leafless, or winter terrain. Issued as part of the PAP's seasonal rotation, it is designed for northern border regions and cold-season deployments. Basically Chinese multicam. Shop the Type 21 Camouflage Overcoat in PAP Winter.