1970s Chilean Army Assault Pack “Arm Chopper”

Own a highly collectible piece of Chilean Army field gear from a pivotal Cold War-era period of procurement and modernization.

Following the Kennedy Amendment (February 1976), Chile faced major restrictions on U.S. military supply at a time of heightened regional tension—first with Peru (1975) and later with Argentina (1978). This forced the Chilean Armed Forces to rapidly seek alternative sources to fill critical equipment gaps.

Within this context, the Chilean Army began importing a wide range of gear from Brazil, including helmets, packs, webbing, ammo pouches, and other essential field equipment used for training and operational readiness.

The assault pack offered here is the well-known “Arm Chopper”, a nickname used by troops for these rugged packs. It was a special-request design, produced as an improved version of the U.S. M45, combining a proven layout with practical upgrades for real field use. A standout addition for collectors focused on Chilean militaria, Cold War equipment, and South American military history—hard to find, highly displayable, and full of context.

Collector Notes: Some examples retain the original factory label, including the year of manufacture. Others may feature handwritten names, markings, or graffiti from the soldiers who carried them—details that make every pack unique and add an extra layer of authenticity and provenance.