ABA QRV Woodland Vest. Very First model

ABA

Elevated Urban Operations 

QRV vest

1985/86

...

Description

Elevated Urban Operations QRV vest

The ABA QRV (Quick Release Vest) in woodland camouflage is a legendary piece of gear from the 1990s, specifically associated with Navy SEAL VBSS (Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure) operations.

Given its provenance from a SEAL Team 5 and Blue Squadron (NSWDG) assaulter, this vest likely dates to the mid-to-late 1990s, a period when these units were refining maritime counter-terrorism tactics.

Key Features and ContextDesign Origin: 

Manufactured by American Body Armor (ABA), this modular system predated the widespread adoption of MOLLE. It often featured interchangeable panels or pouches tailored for specific weapons like the MP5 (for close-quarters boarding) or M14 (for aerial overwatch from helicopters).

VBSS Usage: During the 90s, SEALs typically wore these over specialized armor carriers like the Armor of America (AoA) TP1E. The "Quick Release" function was critical for maritime safety, allowing an operator to shed the heavy gear instantly if they fell into the water.

Woodland Camouflage: While black was common for counter-terrorism, woodland versions were used by SEAL Teams in theater-specific operations where land-based or littoral camouflage was required.
Legacy: This specific vest is often featured in reference manuals like the "Combat Boarding Manual" and is highly sought after by collectors for its direct link to Tier 1 maritime history.

PART NUM.

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TITLE

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DATE

    1980-1990s-

FORMAT

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COLLECTION

    ABA tactical Gear

ACQUISITION

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REFERENCE

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History note Category

ABA QRV woodland vest.
It comes from a former SEAL Team 5 and Blue Squadron Assaulter.It was used during 90s for VBSS missions.

Elevated Urban Operations QRV vest.
Last Variation of the QRV Vest before ABA bought the EUO in 1987 and the 

QRV Vest evolved into the ABA SOV.
Vest is 1985/86

Printed Label

Associated 

• ABA Tactical
• Elevated Urban Operations

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