The Advanced Combat Helmet or ACH helmet is the United States Army’s most modern combat helmet, first used during the initial operations in the Gulf War. Since its inception, many modifications have been made to the ACH helmet, and the helmet has continued to be refined and updated. There are currently three different design options for the ACH. These include the externally adjustable through a chin strap, ventilated shells that offer increased protection from chemical and physical fragrances, and shatterproof lenses. The third option, the ventilated shells, is considered the best combat headgear available and has been used extensively in combat zones worldwide. When looking at all these options, it is important to determine the role you intend to play when wearing an ACH.
There are certain advantages when wearing an Advanced Combat Helmet. The advantage of wearing an ACH is the quick attachment and removal of the helmet. As soon as a soldier removes his protective helmet, he is immediately able to see his surroundings. This allows the soldier to quickly orient himself and locate other soldiers or objects.
Additionally, it offers several enhancements to the lives of service members. With the numerous accessories available and the many features, ACHs provide more comfort than traditional visors or goggles. The improved combat helmets come with many high-tech features, including built-in earpieces and padded heads, as well as interchangeable chin straps. The chin straps make it easy to attach to the user’s chin. Some models include built-in chin pads that protect against dirt and dust.
Most units in the advanced combat helmet generation are lightweight because the materials used were designed to reduce the overall weight of the helmet. The lightweight helmet is a huge improvement when taking into consideration its durability. This lightweight material also enables better vision. For instance, during a battlefield, the enemy may be at a short-range. A lightweight helmet is essential for allowing a soldier to maintain a constant head position without feeling the strain.
Modular integrated communications helmet systems are rapidly gaining popularity among US forces like the Army, Marines, Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard. The ACH system is far superior to its competitors. Soldiers in various combatant branches have reported a variety of benefits, including increased comfort and hearing range, fewer hearing-related accidents, reduced glare and heat dissipation, comfort from sweat, the ability to wear it on different types of helmets, and improved comfort and head support.
