Swiss Army Grundtrageeinheit 90 (GTE 90) / an Introduction

 

   

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Grundtrageeinheit 90
Basic support unit 90

The Grundtrageeinheit 90 (GTE 90) uses a standardized pouch configuration designed for the average infantryman, but it is modular enough to be adapted for specialized roles.

Pouch Configuration by Role

The base system includes a harness and a hip belt where pouches are attached using a proprietary Swiss clip system (pre-dating modern MOLLE).

Standard Infantry (Fusilier):

• 2x Double Magazine Pouches / Doppelmagazintaschen: Positioned at the front for quick access. Each pouch holds two 20-round magazines for the Stgw 90 (SIG 550).

• 1x Bayonet Scabbard / Bajonett-Halterung: Usually worn on the left hip or attached to the side of a magazine pouch.

• 1x Canteen Pouch / Feldflaschentasche: Located on the rear or side-rear, housing the 0.8L Swiss field bottle and cup.

• 1x Protective Mask Bag / Schutzmaskentasche 90: Typically worn on the left side (often with its own separate leg strap or attached to the belt) for rapid CBRN response.

• M90 Field Pack (Kampfrucksack): A rubberized, waterproof backpack (approx. 24 x 18 inches) featuring a main compartment, two side pockets, and a net for securing a helmet.

• Gefechtspackung: A "battle pack" configuration used when the full rucksack is not required for immediate combat.

Medic (Soldat Sanitaire):

Replaces one or more standard magazine pouches with a specialized Medical Pouch or carries a separate medical satchel. Modern updates often integrate a "Roll 1" style trauma pouch for lumbar support and dual-side access.

Grenadier/Specialist:

Additional small pouches for HG 85 Hand Grenades or 40mm grenades (if using the grenade launcher attachment).

Often features a larger utility pouch for extra batteries or specialized tools.

Development 

The development of the Grundtrageeinheit 90 (GTE 90) was driven by the Swiss Army's transition from the heavy, Cold War-era "all-in-one" uniform concept to a modern, modular system.
Its creation followed these key evolutionary steps:

Shift from the M70 "Alpenflage" System
Before the GTE 90, Swiss soldiers used the M70 uniform, which integrated load-bearing pockets directly into a heavy combat jacket. While iconic, this "all-in-one" concept was bulky, poorly ventilated, and difficult to adjust. The development of the GTE 90 aimed to separate the clothing from the equipment-carrying role.


Synchronization with the Stgw 90 (SIG 550)

The GTE 90 was developed specifically to support the Sturmgewehr 90, which began full-scale production in the early 1990s.

• Ammunition Capacity: It replaced the older leather and canvas pouches with synthetic, lightweight pouches designed for the 5.56mm NATO (Gp 90) plastic magazines.

• Bayonet Integration: The bayonet holder was redesigned to fit the new Model 90 bayonet, as the previous rifle's attachments were no longer compatible.

The "Armee 95" Reform
The GTE 90 was officially introduced as part of the Armee 95 reform package. This reform prioritized:

• Modular Design: Allowing soldiers to attach or remove pouches (e.g., mask bags, canteen pouches) based on their specific mission.
• Improved Ergonomics: Distributing weight more evenly across the hips and shoulders compared to the older belt-only systems.

Camouflage Integration (TAZ 90)
Developed alongside the TAZ 90 (Tarnanzug 90) camouflage pattern, the GTE 90 components were some of the first to feature the new four-color woodland scheme. This pattern was scientifically designed by ETH Zurich specifically to match the Swiss landscape.

 
Modern Successor (MBAS)
After nearly 30 years of service, the GTE 90 is currently being phased out by the MBAS (Modulares Bekleidungs- und Ausrüstungssystem). This new system features the TAZ 16 camouflage and focuses on even higher modularity and integrated ballistic protection.

Associated 

• Grundtrageeinheit 90 (GTE 90)
• MBAS
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 Back to Mike Webb Collection

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Grundtrageeinheit 90 (GTE 90)


This system has largely been replaced or supplemented in recent years by the newer KS21 or similar modern modular load-bearing systems, but it remains a staple in military surplus and collector circles.


Technical Materials & Construction

The GTE 90 was a significant jump in material science for the Swiss Army, moving away from heavy leather and cotton canvas.

Fabric: The primary material is a high-density, waterproof technical polyamide (Nylon).Composition: Typically 90% Polyamide (PA) and 10% Polyurethane (PU) coating for waterproofing.

Weight: The fabric is approximately 270–280 GSM (Grams per Square Meter), making it a "medium-heavy" weight material that balances durability with weight savings.

Camouflage: Features the TAZ 90 (Tarnanzug 90) pattern. The dyes used are IR-treated to reduce the soldier's signature under night-vision devices.
Durability Features:Gusseted Pockets: Many pouches use folded gussets to allow for expansion when full while maintaining a slim profile when empty.

Reinforced Stitching: Critical stress points on the harness and belt are double- or triple-stitched to handle the weight of a full combat load (approx. 15-20 kg).

Schutzmaske 90 neu mit Schuma Tasche GTE 90

https://www.ricardo.ch/de/a/vintage-sanitaetstasche-b-ddr-produktion-komplett!-1311397178/