Integrated Head Protection System

The Integrated Head Protection System (IHPS) is the United States Army's newest combat helmet. It was developed by the US Army Soldier Protection System (SPS) program, and is produced by Ceradyne, a 3M subsidiary. The helmet was first issued in 2019 to troops deploying to combat zones like Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria.

Integrated Head Protection System
A U.S. Army paratrooper of the 82nd Airborne Division deployed in Afghanistan in 2019 wearing the IHPS with a Peltor Comtac III communications headset.
TypeCombat helmet
Place of originUnited States of America
Service history
In service2018-present
Used byU.S. Army
WarsGlobal War on Terrorism
Production history
ManufacturerCeradyne
Produced2018-present
Specifications
Weightapprox. 3 lbs/1.36 kg

History

The IHPS helmet began development as a replacement for the Advanced Combat Helmets and Enhanced Combat Helmets in 2013 under the U.S. Army's Soldier Protection System program, a program intended to improve soldier protection and performance while reducing weight.

Low Rate Initial Production delivery began 2nd quarter of the 2018 fiscal year. The helmet was first issued to troops deploying to combat zones through the RFI program.

In October 2019 the new helmet was reported to have saved a soldiers life in Afghanistan, protecting his head from a brick thrown at his vehicle. [1]

Design

The IHPS, combined with Military Combat Eye Protection (MCEP), completes the head protection part of the SPS effort. The IHPS is claimed to be 5% lighter than previous helmets, while offering improved blunt force impact and ballistic protection, especially when applique armor is attached.

The IHPS uses a boltless chinstrap retention system, has an optional mandible with eyeshield for maxillofacial protection, and siderails for attaching equipment like flashlights.[2]

References
  1. Sheftick, Gary (October 21, 2019). "New protective gear saves Soldier's life". Army News Service.
  2. "Soldier Protection System (SPS)". U.S. Army Acquisition Support Center (USAASC).
This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.