Original Bulgarian WWII Fighter Pilot fleece-lined Waistcoat

This is a Bulgarian pilot fleece-lined waistcoat of the WWII period. The model was designed for the WWII German Wehrmaht bomber pilots and the soldiers at the Eastern front.

In World War II, as an ally of the Austrian Hungarian Empire and Germany, Bulgaria exchanged all types of military equipment with these two countries. During WWII Bulgaria supplied the Germans with sheep's uniforms and waistcoats like the one we are offering, so that the fighting Germans could survive during the severe conditions of the so called "Russian winter".
The same waistcoats were sewn for the Bulgarian royal army. They were mainly used by the pilots and tank troops. At the end of the WWII when the army was led by the communists and joined the Red army, these sheep's suits and waistcoats were also employed by motorists and automobile battalions. (At the photo applied you can see Bulgarian soldiers in Yugoslavia, the winter of 1944.)

The waistcoat is made of a good-quality sheep's fur extremely appropriate for the cold winter months. The fleece is used as natural lining inside that could provide protection against wind. On the bakelite buttons can be noticed the Bulgarian royal lion. Unfortunately two of the buttons are missing. Could be easily restored if find the same or similar buttons.

Size: L

Despite the many years that have passed, the waistcoat is in very well preserved authentic condition.
Excellent for winter conditions! Perfect for WWII collectors!