The protection class (level) of modern military helmets is NIJ 0106.01 IIIA. This is an international standard that corresponds to Level 1 protection under the State Standard of Ukraine (DSTU). The anti-fragmentation resistance indicators of such helmets in the overwhelming majority of cases correspond to the level of the fragmentation threat in wartime conditions. Helmets are also able to protect against 9×18 mm PM/APS 57-N-181S and 9×19 mm FMJ RN SC Luger/Parabellum pistol bullets. Modern military helmets usually weigh about 1.5 kg.
Let's focus on their three main types — all of them are presented in our line:
- PASGT (Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops). A time-tested classic helmet that replaced the helmets of the Second World War era. This type of helmet is made of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) or aramid (Kevlar®). It is equipped with a 4-point suspension system and spongy pads for fitting. It has the largest protected area among the three models due to the covered "ears".
- MICH (Modular Integrated Communications) — one of the successors of the PASGT helmet. The model is made of aramid (Kevlar®). It can have a cushioning system of two layers of pads for individual fitting and a "dial" suspension system of the BOA / Team Wendy type or the Ops-Core type. Such a helmet is equipped with a front mount (shroud) for a night-vision device, side rails, and a Velcro system over the entire surface of the shell.
- FAST (Future Assault Shell Technology). The helmet is made of aramid (Kevlar®). This model has higher side cuts compared to MICH, so it allows the external attachment of active headphones. It can have a cushioning pad system for individual fitting and a "dial" suspension system of the BOA / Team Wendy type or the Ops-Core type. The helmet is equipped with side rails, a front mount, and a Velcro system over the entire surface of the shell.
Protection and camouflage
One of the important additional elements for using a helmet in field conditions is a cover. This is a special cover made of strong fabric. Why is a cover put on helmets?
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to increase wear resistance through protection from ultraviolet, damage and scratches;
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for camouflage (concealment) in the natural environment.
The cover can both camouflage on its own and serve as a base for creating additional camouflage from various natural elements — leaves, grass, branches, turf, and so on.
How to choose a military helmet?
It all depends on your specialization and needs. If you are, for example, an infantryman of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and don't use night-vision devices or other specialized accessories, the PASGTmay suit you. It contains no additional mounts and at the same time has a larger protected area compared to the FAST and MICH. PASGT is also suitable for use by journalists, medics and volunteers. But if you are, for instance, a special-forces soldier or a scout and your work involves the use of headphones, night-vision devices or other electronics, it will be advisable to choose the FAST model, which has the appropriate shape and is equipped with all the necessary mounts. However, the modern choice of adapter mounts allows almost all accessories to be attached to MICH helmets too.
And most importantly: even the simplest helmet is better than nothing. Don't neglect head safety, don't neglect a helmet!
You can view the characteristics, choose and buy the military helmet that best suits you in the "Helmets" section on our website