Can you say "target recognition"? Here’s a reliable and low-tech way to spot your own troops and possible hostiles – this Särmä TST Armband is available in various colors.

Show your colors

It is nice to blend in with the surrounding terrain away from the discerning enemy eye, but it’s even nicer to tell between your own troops and the adversary when the fiery fecal matter of gun battle hits the fan – smoke, dirt and metal fill the air, you have tunnel vision, and your troops are scattered around the foggy battlefield in a pattern not in the textbook.

A figure appears in front of you in the close proximities of an urban combat setting – what are you going to do? You have about half a second to make a permanent decision on your next move.

There are estimates that put friendly fire casualties in modern warfare even as high as 20 percent of total casualties. The probability of friendly fire situations in infantry operations increases in theatres where belligerent forces use similar or the exact same camo patterned uniforms. When looking at footage from Ukraine, you immediately see the troops using a much simpler "insignia" than flag patches and such – most of the soldiers are wearing colored tape or bands on their arms and helmets.

Colored tape works fine, but an elastic band might work even better. A band can be taken off quickly or switched to another piece of gear or clothing – instead of going to work with another roll of tape. Bands also enable your troops to change the color quickly if needed – in the same way as passwords, countersigns, and such are regularly changed.

Features

The Särmä TST Armband is firm and elastic. Due to the elasticity, the Särmä TST Armband will fit your arm even if you are some sort of a gym buff.

• This armband is a closed loop of elastic band
• Unstretched circumference 30 cm / 11.8", width 35 mm / 1.4"
• Elastic, sturdy material
• 75 % polyester / 25 % latex
• Wash in max 40°C / 104°F if needed; no bleaching or tumble drying
• Made in Finland

Note: You should probably put this thing on both of your arms for maximum visibility in all directions. So get two of these. Per color. In addition to the colors of the Särmä TST Helmet Band, there is also a white armband. It can be used e.g. in exercise situations for referees, instructors, and such.