NEW ARMY HELMET TO PROTECT AGAINST SMALL ARMS FIRE
The US Army recently fielded its newest combat helmet, the Next Generation Integrated Head Protection System. While this helmet looks very similar to the previously released Army helmet, the new Integrated Head Protection System (IHPS) provides greater protection to Soldiers, especially against small arms fire. Here's everything you need to know about the new helmet, and how it differs from what was previously available to Soldiers.Suggested read:Navy Vet Hailed Hero for Kansas City Chiefs Parade Shooting Response
The Previous Army Helmet: the Integrated Head Protection System
The Integrated Head Protection System began testing in 2018. The intent was for it to replace the Advanced Combat Helmet and Enhanced Combat Helmet for close combat units. The Army helmet is 5% lighter than the two Army helmets that came before it. Though the previous Advanced Combat Helmet model is still in use, the IHPS is 5% lighter, offering better blunt force protection. Despite this, the ballistic protection of the IHPS is still limited to pistol rounds and fragmentation. In order to get small arms protection, Soldiers must attach an applique. Adding 2.5 pounds to the headgear, Soldiers rarely use this attachment due to its large and heavy state. The Army fielded about 119,000 IHPS models between 2018 and 2022 and expects to field even more models of the Next Generation IHPS over a four year period. The new Army helmet is made of advanced polymers. They offer even greater protection than the IHPS at the same weight. Related read: Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) Persists Despite Setbacks
New US Army Helmet: the Next Generation Integrated Head Protection System
Being made of polyethylene, the Next Generation IHPS has material that deforms on impact, dissipating energy. This gives Soldiers protection from small arms fire. Compared to the IHPS and older Army combat helmet models, the Next Generation is a more practical design.82nd Airborne Division paratroopers were the first group to receive the Next Generation IHPS. The helmet, which comes in small, medium, and large sizes, is still in development. Currently, the Army helmet designers are working on improved interior pad options for the helmet after receiving feedback from Soldiers. The Army expects to begin fielding the new model helmet by early 2025. The currently fielded model of the Next Generation IHPS includes a suspension system, helmet cover, novel retention, hearing protection, and a mountable night-vision bracket. Over the next two years, research, development, and testing of a communications system will be conducted.
The Next Generation Integrated Head Protection System Fielding Plan
The Army plans to field the new helmet to the 82nd Airborne Division’s 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Brigade Combat Teams and the 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade by March. They are also sending the helmet to Brigade Combat Teams of the 101st Airborne Division (Fort Campbell, Kentucky). They are also sending out the Next Generation Army helmet across several other close-combat formations over the course of the next three years.Read next: Finding a Shooting Range Near Me: Choosing the Right One