The cover pockets are the new standard. The ideas has come from the Airforce side which worries about FOD.
The CDS or VCDS has now directed the clothing and equipment, from all services, to converge all their programs into one. If you look on the new tag you will see they are called for example the shirts.
COAT, CBT LTWT CONVERGE CADPAT (TW)
The convergance program is suppose to cut down on the duplication of similar items and thus save money. But with all great military ideas this has its down side. All the items now have to be trialed and approved by the army and airforce for use, before it is issued. And now the navy has been ordered into the convergance program.