Why is NSG changing its black cat commando uniform? All you need to know

India's elite National Security Guard (NSG) is set to change the uniforms of its Black Cat Commandos, introducing a new fabric designed to help them cope with extreme heat during security operations. The new uniform will be made from NyCo, a blend of nylon and cotton, which is expected to improve ventilation and absorb sweat.

The decision comes after an incident on April 20, 2026, when a Black Cat Commando deployed for the security of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu fainted during a press conference in Vijayawada. Temperatures in the city had crossed 44 degrees Celsius at the time.

The incident prompted the NSG to examine the conditions faced by commandos during VIP security duties. The assessment reportedly found that heat had become trapped inside the commando's uniform, contributing to the incident.

What makes the new NSG uniform different?

The new uniform will use NyCo fabric, a combination of nylon and cotton. The cotton component absorbs sweat, while the nylon allows better airflow through the fabric, helping sweat evaporate and keeping the body cooler.

The change is aimed at reducing heat discomfort for commandos who spend long hours on duty, particularly during outdoor security deployments.

Why do Black Cat Commandos carry so much weight?

A commando's equipment adds considerably to the physical demands of VIP security duties. The uniform, helmet and shoes together weigh approximately 3 kg, while the bulletproof jacket weighs around 6 kg.

The submachine gun carried by a commando weighs approximately 3 kg, and the sidearm or pistol adds another 1 kg. Additional magazines account for around 1 kg.

Communication equipment, including the radio set, along with protective gear such as gloves and knee pads, adds approximately 2 kg more.

This means a Black Cat Commando carries nearly 15-16 kg of additional weight, apart from their own body weight.

Commandos must manage this equipment while remaining alert to their surroundings and standing guard for hours, often under the scorching sun. Since they cannot simply remove or reduce weapons and essential protective equipment, improving uniform comfort becomes important.

When did military uniforms first change to suit the climate?

Changes in military clothing to suit local weather conditions are not new. An example can also be found during the Mughal period.

When Mughal emperor Babur arrived in India, his soldiers wore thick leather garments known as Postin. The tunic-like clothing was suited to the cold climate of their homeland, present-day Uzbekistan.

However, India's hot and humid conditions made leather clothing uncomfortable and caused excessive heat. Mughal soldiers later adopted cotton garments, which were better suited to India's climate.

Why are NSG commandos called Black Cats?

The name Black Cat is associated with the three guiding principles of the NSG: Stealth, Speed and Precision.

A black cat is often associated with the ability to move unnoticed in darkness, strike quickly and assess its surroundings before attacking. These qualities reflect the skills expected of an NSG commando.

The force's motto is Sarvatra Sarvottam Suraksha, meaning the highest level of security, everywhere.

How tough is NSG commando training?

Becoming an NSG commando requires 14 months of rigorous training. Only around 20 per cent of applicants successfully complete the process and earn the distinction of serving in the elite force.

The demanding selection and training standards are intended to prepare commandos for some of the country's most challenging security operations.

Operation Ashwamedh: One of NSG's notable missions

One of the operations highlighting the NSG's capabilities was Operation Ashwamedh.

On April 24, 1993, a Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist hijacked an Air India flight travelling from Delhi to Srinagar. The aircraft landed at Amritsar airport on April 25.

Following several hours of negotiations, NSG commandos launched an operation to end the hijacking. Within minutes, they killed the hijacker and rescued all 141 passengers and crew members on board. No NSG commando was injured during the operation.

From the Amritsar hijacking to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, NSG commandos have played a key role in several major counter-terrorism operations.

The proposed uniform change is aimed at addressing one of the challenges they face during deployment: performing demanding security duties while carrying heavy equipment in extreme weather conditions.