World War I saw a substantial increase in the effectiveness and lethality of artillery, resulting in a new focus on protective equipment, including helmets.
Over time, the equipment transitioned from providing protection to being an accessory worn for pageantry and unit recognition. When rifled firearms were introduced in the late 1700s, this equipment was found to be inadequate, and its use declined considerably. In early usage, soldiers wore equipment made of leather or cloth in an attempt to protect their heads from sword cuts and other blows.
The Department of Defense (DoD) is continuing to invest in research to improve helmet performance, through better design and materials as well as better manufacturing processes. One of the key advances was the development of aramid fibers in the 1960s, which led to today’s Kevlar-based helmets. This chapter describes the changes in design and materials, from those used in World War I to today’s Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH). Combat helmets have evolved considerably over the years.
