The evolution of the combat helmet

The materials used for combat helmets throughout history have greatly depended on the context of the time and the operational strategies of the military. The protective gear of a soldier, especially the helmet, plays a crucial role in their safety and effectiveness in combat. This significance has been consistent across various eras, as armies emphasized not only the protection offered but also the mobility and weight of the equipment. The evolution of the combat helmet illustrates the ongoing advancements in military defense tools, adapting to counter the emerging threats of each period.

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Worn by army soldiers

In a demonstration video by the U.S. Army, the protective capabilities of the Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH) are highlighted.

The Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH) replaced its predecessor as the standard combat helmet for the United States Army, commencing its usage in the early 2000s. Developed by experts from the U.S. Army Soldier Systems Center, the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, and the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, the ACH represents a significant upgrade in protective gear for ground forces. It draws its design from the previous Modular Integrated Communications Helmet.

Currently, the ACH is being phased out in favor of the Enhanced Combat Helmet (ECH), which builds upon the design improvements introduced with the ACH. Meanwhile, both the ACH and ECH will eventually be succeeded by the Integrated Head Protection System.

History

The ACH was initially fielded in limited numbers to gradually replace the PASGT helmet. In a significant procurement effort, 102,000 ACHs were ordered from ArmorSource, with 99,000 successfully delivered when the contract concluded. The introduction of a ballistic "nape pad" in 2006 linked directly to the helmet's rear suspension system represented another advancement aimed at improving soldier protection during operations. A substantial allocation of ACHs was designated for soldiers deployed in critical combat zones, particularly in Iraq.

Notably, from 2007 onward, enhancing the ACH's design became a priority as the Army's Program Executive Office Soldier began equipping units headed to Iraq with helmet-mounted sensors to gather data on head injuries, such as those stemming from IED blasts. Such data plays a pivotal role in informing ongoing enhancements to helmet suspensions and chin strap systems. By mid-2010, a portion of ACHs, while actively used, faced recalls due to concerns over potential material defects. Ultimately, it led to settlement agreements on financial terms without the admission of wrongdoing by the involved contractors.

Further recalls occurred in 2011, centered around the Gentex Corporation's production of ACHs, following identified non-compliance in critical components. Specially, screws securing the chinstrap did not meet stringent ballistics tests under extreme conditions, raising considerable safety concerns. Late in 2013, enhanced covers tailored for the Advanced Combat Helmet surfaced for operational needs, particularly for those deployed in Afghanistan, marking improved adaptability of the ACH in varying environments.

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On March 7, 2013, the supply chain for ACHs saw further adjustments as Armorsource LLC agreed to resolve False Claims Act allegations, while Revision secured a contract for future iterations of the ACH. The road is paved for both the Enhanced Combat Helmet and the Integrated Head Protection System to replace earlier models.

Design

The ACH's design mirrors that of the MICH TC-1 closely, featuring a sleek structure that maximizes visibility and functionality. Advances such as removing the front brow enhance upwards vision while minimizing hindrances for night-vision devices. Diminishing the side brim allows for optimal compatibility with communication headsets and improved auditory perception in environments requiring auditory situational awareness.

Constructed from cutting-edge ballistic fibers, including Kevlar and Twaron, the ACH showcases significant advances in materials technology. Complementing these features is the ballistic "nape pad," integrated into its design to notably reduce fatalities from neck injuries during combat-related incidents.

The helmet typically features a base coat of sand tan, grey, black, or forest green and is often paired with cloth covers that adhere to various camouflage patterns, enhancing troop concealment. Moreover, it is adaptable for additional protective gear, ensuring soldiers are equipped for diverse operational conditions.