US-based protective military equipment producer Revision Military has been contracted to produce lighter combat helmets for the US Army.

The five-year Advanced Combat Helmet Generation II contract is valued at around $98m.

Under the contract, Revision Military will produce a new helmet that weighs an average of 22% less than the one currently in use with the US troops.

A programme executive office (PEO) soldier at  Fort Belvoir, Virginia, said that collaboration with industry, academia and government research laboratories enabled the helmet's weight to be reduced without compromising its integrity.

The helmet is made out of a high-molecular-weight polyethylene material that is lighter than Kevlar and capable of stopping 9mm handgun rounds and various shell fragments.

US Army soldier protective equipment product manager lieutenant colonel Kathy M. Brown said: "The partnership between the army and industry is critical.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

"With a renewed focus on research and development, our goal is a revolutionary leap in technology for personal protective equipment in the future."

"With a renewed focus on research and development, our goal is a revolutionary leap in technology for personal protective equipment in the future."

The helmet weight reduction will help soldiers reduce mission fatigue and enhance their situational awareness, according to PEO soldier officials.

Said to increase soldier effectiveness and overall survivability, the lighter helmet will also be available to other military services through Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support.

According to the army, its new integrated head, neck and face protection, called the 'Integrated Head Protection System', will include an enhanced helmet, a visor, a mandible that protects the lower jaw, and a 'ballistic applique' that can be attached to the base helmet.

The complete ensemble is expected to be fielded in 2020.


Image: The new helmet is made from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, a lighter material than Kevlar, but reportedly just as strong. Photo: courtesy of Ron Lee, PEO soldier.