After testing the “Helmets of the Future” last year, the U.S. Army has awarded 3M subsidiary, Ceradyne, Inc., an additional US$34 Million to continue supplying the helmets. Called the Integrated Head Protection Systems (IHPS), this is the latest generation in head protection system designed to protect most of the head of today’s warfighter.

This is full head protection system that it looks futuristic that some cannot help compare the IHPS to the F35 pilot’s helmet although the latter is really futuristic and really expensive. The IHPS includes a mandible, visor, modular ballistic appliqué, night vision goggle attachment device, and rails to mount even more accessories.

The IHPS is a lighter-weight ballistic helmet system that also provides passive hearing protection and increased blunt-impact performance such as protection from rifle and pistol rounds. Initially, 3M was awarded US$7 million in 2016 to supply 5,300 IHPS helmet systems.

3M is expected to start delivering the IHPS helmets early this year. Press release below:

U.S. Army Awards 3M Additional $34 Million for Helmets of the Future

ST. PAUL, Minn. – March 1, 2018 – The U.S. Army has awarded Ceradyne, Inc., a 3M company, an additional $34 million to continue supplying its ballistic helmet of the future. The Integrated Head Protection System (IHPS) – which Popular Mechanics described as straight out of science fiction – uses advanced materials, an ultramodern design and add-on accessories to give soldiers greater comfort and advanced protection for modern missions. This brings Ceradyne’s total IHPS contract value to more than $52 million.

The U.S. Army created the highly technical IHPS to give soldiers a lighter-weight ballistic helmet with passive hearing protection and increased blunt-impact performance. It is a component of the Army’s next-generation Soldier Protection System (SPS) program, which seeks to optimize soldier protection while reducing total equipment weight.

"This order reinforces the Army’s confidence in 3M to design and produce the IHPS, which is so advanced, it sets a new global standard for head protection," said Cheryl Ingstad, global business manager, Advanced Ceramics Platform – Defense, 3M.

The IHPS is designed to protect against modern battlefield threats, including powerful rifle projectiles and handgun bullets. It can be fitted with accessories, such as mandible, visor, night vision goggle attachment, rails and a modular ballistic applique for increased protection. 3M will begin delivery in early 2018 and will continue to deliver throughout the year.

For more information about 3M soldier protection solutions, visit www.3M.com/Defense.

Photo Source: U.S. Army