The helmets used by American pilots today are based on an outdated design from the 1980s. So, as you might imagine, it is outdated. So outdated that their design was never designed with helmet-mounted display systems in mind, with a negative impact on comfort. However, this will change the modern helmet of American pilots of fixed-wing aircraft, which will be a completely new generation of equipment, about which we just learned a little.

The modern American aviator’s helmet is still under development. We know the company that will develop its prototype

According to the latest announcement by the US Air Force, LIFT Airborne Technologies will continue to develop a prototype of the new helmet for pilots in fixed-wing aircraft. This is the fruit of the Combat Air Command program, which aims to search for the best possible helmet design for a new generation. Design cards should have:

  • Solve the problem of long-term back and neck injuries
  • Improved integration with aircraft technology
  • Increase the chances of survival for pilots
  • Provides better compatibility with different crews

Read also: We are half Caesar, that is, the French self-propelled howitzers fighting for the freedom of Ukraine

In other words, the new generation of American experimental helmets should take a completely different approach from the basic design. The most important aspect seems to be reducing the weight of the additional hardware installed on older helmets and ensuring a better fit for different head sizes, especially women.

The Air Force selected LIFT Airborne Technologies after the Air Combat Command began searching for a next-generation helmet in April. After more than 30 years of long-term neck and back injuries caused by the current helmet, the Air Pilot crew is looking forward to the potential for greater application and better fitting helmets for operators of all sizes, genders and races.

Read also: The most destructive ship in the world. These are the three candidates

See also  John McCain, Steve Jobs and Denzel Washington among recipients of the highest civilian honor

In the design, the main parameters are weight, pilot comfort, optimal fit and protection, stability, optimal center of gravity and integration with various helmet-mounted systems. And the above-mentioned company turned out to be the most effective in this regard, because its work was distinguished from more than a hundred other proposals. However, this is not the end of business, but its beginning.

Read also: T-84 tank under the magnifying glass. Half of the unique Ukrainian main battle tank

After a full prototype is developed, the new helmet will undergo additional research, testing and finally improvements, before the Air Force can confirm the prototype’s success and propose a production contract. This will happen in 2024. After production is completed, the plan is to gradually deliver a new helmet to all crew members of fixed aircraft in the Air Force, starting with the crews of the F-15E Strike Eagle.