B-15A JACKET “23RD FIGHTER GROUP”

The B-15A jacket is a historic flight jacket originally developed for the U.S. Army Air Forces in the late 1940s, marking a significant evolution in aviation gear during and after World War II. It replaced earlier models like the B-10, offering improved warmth and functionality for high-altitude flight crews. Designed to withstand the cold temperatures at high altitudes, the B-15A jacket featured a thick wool lining and was made from durable nylon or a combination of nylon and cotton fabric.

The jacket became iconic for its utility and design, with multiple versions introduced over time, including variations in color and construction. Its design elements included a front zipper, ribbed knit cuffs and waistband, and sometimes a fur-lined collar for additional protection against the elements.

It became widely known beyond the military, influencing fashion and popular culture, especially in the 1950s and 1960s, as it was adopted by civilian fashion brands and even by the emerging subcultures of the time. Its association with American military heritage, particularly in aviation, cemented the B-15A as a symbol of both practicality and style.