Check out the entire 2011 lineup from Ops-Core. The only thing is, they are always busy developing new products so this is really more of a snapshot in time than a definitive look at their products.
Check out the entire 2011 lineup from Ops-Core. The only thing is, they are always busy developing new products so this is really more of a snapshot in time than a definitive look at their products.
Not only did Ops-Core have their new Sentry ACH helmet on display but they also debuted the Skull Crusher. All I can say is, where the heck was this thing 25 years ago? While it adopts the name of its OEM forebearer, it is anything but. Wearing NODs can cause headaches in and of themselves, let alone when you are wearing an issue headset. Ops-Core has taken the pain out of the harness. Not only does it offer three points of adjustment to the head portion, it also features Ops-Core’s excellent chinstrap system with another four points of adjustment. And let’s not forget, it was actually designed by folks who know something about how the human head interacts with loads and what’s more, how to make them more comfortable and stable.
The Sentry ACH is truly the next generation of protection. The Gallet-designed MICH (ACH) originally incorporated a more traditional cradle-style suspension system. When pads were incorporated sizing tariffs were skewed in order to ensure proper fits for the troops. Ops-Core developed an entirely new shape to accommodate their new high impact suspension system.
Additionally, it actually provides more coverage than an ACH, is lighter weight, and allows the use of the rail mounted ARC Peltor Headset as they will tuck up underneath the sides of the helmet. Traditional headband-style earphones can also be worn.
Ops-Core will be releasing a new helmet called the Sentry ACH. Based on the popular FAST ballistic helmet, the shape is a little different and designed to improve hearing attenuation. And, while it provides the same level of protection and coverage as an ACH, it is a full half pound lighter due to its composite construction. Visit them in booth #8111 which is adjacent to Crye Precision to learn more.
Tidewater Tactical hasn’t just updated the look of their website, they have made some pretty major changes to how they do business. The new interface is fantastic and it is easy to find products but there is so much more happening here. In the past Tidewater limited sales to military and other government clients but with the launch of the new Tidewater Tactical website, anyone can order online from a wide variety of products. In fact, they are the only company we have found that offers the Peltor ARC Headset Kit, that was specially developed by Peltor in association with Ops-Core to integrate hearing protection directly with the Ops-Core FAST helmet.
As you can see in this photo, the headset integrates with the ARC rail. The headphones can be pulled up and away from the ear when they are not needed and there is no issue with a headband interfering with padding inside the helmet. All in all, it’s the way to go if you are running a FAST helmet and need active comms/hearing protection.
Ops-Core has partnered with Princeton Tec to produce the Quad Tactical Head Lamp. The four LED lamp light is waterproof and features interchangeable lens covers to provide white, blue, red, and green light. The light component is produced by Princeton Tec and mounted to an Ops-Core bracket that fits their VAS Shroud. The bracket is also MOLLE compatible and the light can function as a regular headlamp as well.
Program Manager, Special Operations Forces Survival, Support and Equipment Systems (PM SOF-SSES) has released a pre-solicitation for a “non-commercial, non-developmental Modular Integrated Communication Helmet (MICH) Product Improved Helmet, Type I Ballistic System”.
Requirements include “The Type I MICH-BALLISTIC meets or exceeds all of the current MICH helmet requirements with the added benefit of lighter weight and flexible configuration.” Please note the term “flexible”. This is a level of modularity not available on the legacy MICH and screams FAST helmet from Ops-Core or AIRFRAME helmet from Crye Precision although I am sure BAE will have something to throw at this based on their recent work on the Enhanced Combat Helmet combined with Corona.
The pre-solicitation closes 16 March, 2010 with a full and open solicitation to follow later this year.