For many years, the tell-tale sign of a GI Joe Greenshirt was the distinctive helmet they wore. It is the XMH-1 helmet, an advanced prototype military helmet that never made it into the mainstream army. Nevertheless, the helmet was way ahead of its time and just may have been to expensive to deploy with the entire U.S. Army.
History
The M-1 "Steel Pot" helmet of World War II and Vietnam was starting to show its age by the early 80s. The Army wanted something more advanced, with greater ballistics and shrapnel protection. Trakker Industries, headed by Matt and Andy Trakker, designed the XMH-1. The Army brass were impressed by the design, but did not like the cost per unit. General Austin decided that the new GI Joe team would employ the helmet.
Description:
The helmet provides excellent protection to the head of the soldier. It has a dense layer of Kevlar that can stop small rounds like a .38 Special or a 9mm. The design and shape give excellent protection to the wearer's ears. A unique hole on the side of the helmet allows for a modular system of equipment for different duties. A variety of visors and riot shields can be worn with it. An advanced comm system for vehicle crews works with the helmet as well.
Service Life:
The helmet was the standard battle helmet from 1982-1988, when it was replaced by the PASGT helmet that was Army standard at the time. GI Joes always have the option of choosing what gear they want to equip themselves with on any given mission. Some still choose to use the XMH-1 helmet, even though it is heavier than current models, due to its excellent protection. The helmet is still being produced in limited numbers by Trakker Industries.
No comments:
Post a Comment