Tactical recognition flash



A Tactical Recognition Flash (TRF) is a coloured patch worn on the arm of combat clothing by members of the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force as well as a number of other Commonwealth militaries to distinguish their Regiment or Corps in the absence of a cap badge. It is similar to but distinct from the DZ Flashes worn by members of Airborne Forces. The colours of the TRF are sometimes derived from the unit's stable belt. The Light Dragoons Flash here is often called the Balaklva Flash. It is actually a distinction that was awarded by the Colonel in chief Baden Powell.It is actually blue and white. TRFs should not be confused with formation signs or insignia, which are used to denote the formation (usually brigade or division or a higher headquarters) and are worn in addition to TRFs by a member of any regiment or corps serving in that formation.

Naval Service
In 2007, the Royal Navy introduced a new TRF for CS95, which is the RN Corporate Logo, as found on the official RN website. This short lived idea was abolished in late 2008 by a decision of the Naval Service Clothing Committee, along with the large "Royal Navy" breast patch, and will be replaced in 2009 by a curved shoulder patch with the same wording.