International Security Assistance Force Special Operations Force badge

Triangular shaped Velcro backed black and white coloured patch. The edged patch features a central motif combining a fighting knife with the Hindu Kush mountains above a scroll with the words 'ISAF SOF'. Beneath is 'AFGHANISTAN' in white.
Note: Female Velcro removed for exhibiton and subdivided.

This patch is a type example of one worn in Afghanistan by members of the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG), a branch of the Australian Defence Force. SOTG consists of several Special Forces units of the Australian Army including the Special Air Service Regiment, 1st Commando Regiment, 2nd Commando Regiment, Special Operations Engineer Regiment and the Special Operations Logistic Squadron.

It is an Australian made copy of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Special Operations Forces (SOF) Headquarters patch, which has been worn by US, French, Polish and other NATO and non-NATO members of the Coalition forces in Afghanistan circa 2010-2012.

A diverse range of limited edition patches are worn in both barracks environments and in the field on operations. The badges can illustrate and reinforce the small group/unit camaraderie that is formed in training, pre-deployment and during the eventual deployment to either combat or peacekeeping missions. Most patches are made in a full colour version or in subdued colours for improved camouflage properties when worn in field conditions.

The patches provide a recognizable emblem and are often a source of intense pride amongst members of unit operating in a multi-national military environment. These badges are also a form of currency and are often given as a gift and used as token of respect amongst units and individuals who have served with, in support of or alongside them. Typically these patches are worn on the upper sleeves of a shirt or jacket. Sometimes they can be seen worn on combat chest webbing or packs and baseball style caps.

Unofficial patches are usually of a temporary nature and typically are worn for a short period only during a particular deployment.

• Shoulder patch: International Security Assistance Force Special Operations Force badge