Researchers have been concentrating on filling the gaps between current armor vests and helmets and that has driven the design of this new helmet system. They started with a light helmet with shock mitigating liner. Then they developed different mission-specific appliques, such as a ballistic shell, front mandible, ballistic visor and an rear neck guard that attaches at the back of the helmet which reminds me of those found on riot helmets. This has made it modular and scalable much like newer body armor. They’ve added a couple of other interesting features. As you can see, the outer shell includes an integrated NVG mount. Additionally, the liner helmet is high cut, exposing the the ear in order to decrease weight yet increase compatibility with hearing augmentation systems.
The helmet has been under development by Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) РValcartier since 2007 and recently underwent trials with 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e R̩giment (2 R22eR) (the legendary Van Doos) during the last two weeks of September. The 2 R22eR team put the helmet through its paces in a variety of scenarios including dismounted and mounted, range drills and weapons handling.
Video report and Photos by Sgt Sébastien Fréchette, Army News, CFB Valcartier
