If you’ve had trouble obtaining the Coast Guard-issued windbreaker, you’re not alone.
Due to ongoing supply chain issues, the Coast Guard is running low on stock of the navy-blue jacket which is part of the basic uniform. Shortages are expected to continue until November/December 2026.
How we got here
The Coast Guard’s primary supplier, the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), also provides these windbreakers to the Air Force, which is facing similar shortages. The DLA relies on contracts with domestic U.S. manufacturers. The problem is that the U.S. textile industry is currently experiencing significant challenges in fabric production, which is affecting the availability of material needed for uniforms across all branches of the Armed Forces.
How bad is the shortage?
The current stock of windbreakers at the Uniform Distribution Center at Recruit Training Center (RTC) Cape May is nearly depleted and DLA is unable to restock at this time. In situations like this, available inventory is typically prioritized for accession points at RTC and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. Unfortunately, that can lead to shortages at the Coast Guard Exchange, impacting uniform availability for the Fleet.
What’s being done?
Both DLA and fabric manufacturers are working to increase production, but the expected "get well date" for windbreakers is November/December 2026. Until then, both the Coast Guard and the Air Force anticipate minimal supply availability.
Recruits leaving training will get a stipend to cover the replenishment costs associated with ALL uniforms that are not issued upon departure.
Commands are advised to keep in mind that new members of the workforce may be missing some uniform items through no fault of their own. Please take that into consideration when prescribing command uniform of the day.
The Coast Guard continues to work with current manufactures of all uniform items to increase production in order to fill gaps at RTC and the Coast Guard Exchange.
In the future, PSC PSD will publish an ALCOAST with more comprehensive information about uniforms, as well specific information about CGWU.
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