Luchtvaartregiment 2 (Niet-Varend Personeel) Kwartiermuts

Original Belgian Army Overseas Cap “Kwartiermuts” – 2e Luchtvaartregiment (Niet-Varend Personeel) (c. 1930s)

A very nice and original interwar Belgian Army overseas cap, known as a “Kwartiermuts”, privately tailored for a soldier of the 2e Luchtvaartregiment (non-flying personnel).

Private Purchase Example: A tailor-made cap, purchased at a local shop rather than issued, as was common for Belgian soldiers in the 1930s.

Unit Identification: The piping and insignia mark this example as belonging to the 2e Luchtvaartregiment, specifically for niet-varend personeel (ground staff/technical personnel). The letters “ET” on the badge are often interpreted as École Technique, though generally accepted today as denoting non-flying personnel within the regiment.

Complete Condition: Rare in this form, the cap still retains its original tassel, a feature often missing on surviving examples.

Condition: Well-preserved, with light age wear but no major damage.

Historical Context

The Belgian Luchtvaartregiment was created in the interwar years as the air arm of the Belgian Army. Within this structure, the 2e Luchtvaartregiment formed one of its core units, with the non-flying personnel (mechanics, armorers, technical specialists) providing essential support for operations.

During the 1940 campaign in Belgium, ground staff of the Luchtvaartregiment were crucial in maintaining and servicing aircraft under severe combat pressure. Despite the rapid German advance, these units ensured the operational readiness of Belgian aircraft until the final days of fighting.

Collector’s Note

A scarce Belgian interwar Kwartiermuts from the 2e Luchtvaartregiment (Niet-Varend Personeel). Complete with its tassel and correct insignia featuring the “ET” cypher, this cap is a desirable piece for collectors of Belgian militaria, particularly those focused on the aviation troops and the 1940 campaign.