The army combat uniform ACU is the first major change in its BDU or battle dress uniform since 1981. The army combat uniform ACU is centered on a computer generated, camouflage pattern, three digital colors printed on polyester and cotton blend, wash and wear fabric. Three distinct versions were developed and nearly 10,000 new ACU were produced. The army combat uniform ACU consists of trousers, jacket, brown combat shoes and moisture wicking t,shirt. The ACU will still have the black beret as the normal headgear, but this uniform also includes a matching patrol cap which can be worn at the discretion of the commander.

Other features of the army combat uniform ACU includes;

- Mandarin collar – can be worn up/down

- Rank insignia worn on the right check pocket

- Zippered front closure

- Velcro for identifying unit patch

- Knee pouch

- Elastic leg cuff

- Vecro sleeve cuff

- Vecro shoulder pockets

- Cargo pockets – forward titled

- Integrated blouse to increase upper body mobility

- Desert tan t.shirt – with moisture wick

The summer army combat ACU will be made with weight fabric, and the uniform will include a sewn on identifier patch to identify other service members under night vision glimmers.