The Michigan-based Gentex Corporation has built helmets for US Army helicopter pilots since 1995—and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

The United States Army has been actively phasing out its legacy Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH), the official US military helmet since the early 2000s, in favor of three distinct models for slightly different uses—the Integrated Head Protection System (IHPS), the Next Generation Integrated Head Protection System (NIHS), and the Enhanced Combat Helmet (ECH). Given the critical importance of head protection in combat, and the difficulty in shielding heads relative to torsos, the Pentagon is certain to continue large-scale investments in, and research into, helmet design in the years ahead.

However, another widely used US military helmet won’t be retired anytime soon. A new contract has ensured it will remain in service for years, and likely decades, to come.

Last week, the Gentex Corporation, a Michigan-based protective equipment manufacturer which has produced the main rotary wing helmet systems for US Army helicopter pilots, was awarded a five-year Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract to supply its HGU-56/P Rotary Wing Helmet system, Apache Helmet Assemblies (AHA), spare parts, and upgrade kits.

The United States Army Contracting Command at the Redstone Arsenal in Alabama is the contracting authority, and the firm fixed-price contract will be funded and managed by the Produce Manager Air Warrior (PdM Air Warrior) unit.

“This award reflects the continued confidence the US Army places in Gentex and our ability to deliver proven, mission-critical aircrew protection systems,” said Marcus Gengler, segment director for rotary wing applications at Gentex Corporation, in a company media release. “For decades, we’ve provided advanced helmet solutions that enhance safety, survivability, and mission effectiveness. We are honored to continue supporting Army aviators with the equipment they depend on every day.”

The new five-year contract has a maximum potential value of around $44.8 million. It would include the “continued fielding, sustainment, and modernization of HGU-56/P Helmet systems used by U.S. Army rotary-wing aircrew.

About the HGU-56/P Helmet

• Year Introduced: 1995
• Weight: 1.33 to 1.5 kg (2.93 to 3.31 lbs)
• Visors: Dual visor assembly (clear and dark neutral gray) with ANVIS quick-disconnect mounts for Night Vision Goggles (NVG)
• Noise Attenuation: Up to 42 dB at 8 kHz, equipped with active noise reduction (ANR) options and compatible with Communication Ear Plugs (CEP)
• Retention System: Enhanced chin strap designed to withstand a 1950 N tension load for two minutes
• Material & Sizing: Available in sizes S, M, L, and XL with advanced composite shells; also features customizable options like the Maxillofacial Shield (MFS) for lower-face and windblast protection

Development of the HGU-56/P Rotary Wing Helmet System began in 1985 to replace the Vietnam-era SPH-3 and SPH-4 series. It was designed to be lighter, less bulky, and more impact-resistant.

It officially entered service with the US Army in 1995 and was first used in covert operations and deployments with Task Force 160. It became the standardized rotary-wing helmet across all branches of the United States military by 1999.

Unlike the older SPH-4, the HGU-56/P was built using a Spectra and Graphite laminated composite shell to reduce weight and bulk. It included an Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Energy Attenuating Liner (EAL) to prevent fatal head injuries in crashes. It is also compatible with night vision systems and mission equipment. Its modular architecture supports ongoing upgrades and improvements, as well as continued sustainment.

Helmet Design Is Big Business for Gentex

The US Army didn’t confirm how many helmets were being produced or state the unit cost for the helmets. However, there are approximately 7,300 active duty pilots in the US Army, with an estimated total roster of 14,000 pilots when combining active duty, Army Reserve, and National Guard components. The vast majority of the aviators are rotary-wing pilots, but the HGU-56/P is worn by all pilots and other aircrew members.

The helmet was developed to deliver “advanced impact protection, compatibility with mission-essential communications systems, and the durability required for demanding operational environments,” according to the media release.

Under the new contract, the company will deliver complete helmet assemblies, spare components, and upgrade kits to help ensure aircrews maintain operational readiness throughout the life cycle of the system.

“By providing both new production helmet systems and sustainment support, Gentex will help ensure Army aircrews have access to reliable, combat-proven protective equipment throughout the coming years,” the release read.

What’s So Special About the New HGU-56 Helmets?

Last year, flight students at Fort Rucker, Alabama, the primary fixed-wing and rotary-wing flight training base for the US Army, announced that students began to receive the HGU-56/P Rotary Wing Helmet (RWH), an improved version of the HGU-56/P helmets previously used with the flight school. The enhanced version features a three-piece liner system to protect the head and also provides a larger field of view.

The same improvements are present in the new HGU-56/P RWHs procured under the new contract.

About the Author: Peter Suciu

Peter Suciu has contributed to dozens of newspapers, magazines and websites over a 30-year career in journalism. He regularly writes about military hardware, firearms history, cybersecurity, politics, and international affairs. Peter is also a contributing writer for Forbes and Clearance Jobs. He is based in Michigan. You can follow him on Twitter: @PeterSuciu. You can email the author: Editor@nationalinterest.org.

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