HJELM NFM Combat Helmet defines a new paradigm for equipment modularity and electronics integration without the extra weight and bulk of legacy systems. Improved capabilities for mission optimization and situational awareness are complimented by a ballistic shell and liner working to provide the highest level of protection and comfort available today.

Despite their spectacle-shaped face protection, designed to frighten and intimidate the opponent, and the spike on the crest, rendering a head-butt potentially lethal, the Gjermundbu helmet provided limited protection and considerably less comfort than helmets available today. Nonetheless, our Viking ancestors prized their helmets or hjelm, which were carefully preserved, repaired as needed, and passed from generation to generation, sometimes being used for centuries until the iron became too thin and weak to provide any real protection.

GENERATION I

In the summer of 1915, the large number of lethal head wounds that artillery inflicted upon the French Army led them to introduce the first modern steel helmets, closely followed by the first British combat helmet to be specifically designed and engineered for Western Front battlefield conditions. These helmets were in reality no different in construction than the metal helmets worn by Roman soldiers in ancient times and are considered the first generation of military helmet design.

GENERATION II

Generation II was marked by the invention and adoption of Kevlar material bringing about improvement in both protection and weight. The composite material construction of aramid fiber and resin for the ballistic shell was very good at stopping high speed fragments as well as most caliber handgun bullets.

GENERATION III

Wearing technology on the head for purposes other than protection started the third generation of military helmet evolution. In the early 21st century, use of communication headsets and night vision goggles became common place and required a new level of helmet integration with accessory components. The earliest versions of these third generation helmets incorporated night vision mounts and ballistic shells trimmed higher to provide clearance for headset earcups.

The NFM HJELM helmet line was developed to be the first Generation IV ground infantry platform capable of integrating information technology while advancing protection from battlefield threats. The foundation for this system is an internal liner system that holds the helmet on the head comfortably and securely. It is coupled to a lightweight shell made from the highest grade of ballistic materials, and every gram of performance is optimized with state-of-the art processing techniques.

What makes HJELM a truly Generation-IV helmet is the Edgemount™ with Helmet Attachment System Pattern (HASP). Unlike traditional rails and velcro which have limited attachment options and added material to the outside of the helmet, independent of devices being attached or not, the Edgemount with HASP means technology can be integrated only where it is needed.

Most Generation III helmets use a rail system for attaching accessory equipment like an illuminator, visor, or communications headset to the helmet. Rails are heavier and require more and material than is necessary when attaching fewer devices – which is often the case. NFM’s patented Edgemount Attachment Systen provides the flexibility to attach only the accessory equipment that is desired so if a solider only requires a torch for a particular mission, this is all the mounting hardware that is attached.

The Edgemount Attachment System also provides the means for integrating wiring and connectors inside the helmet for Generation IV sensory enhancement technologies. This gives soldiers and technology manufacturers the flexibility to incorporate these devices in the optimal confirguration for their function, while streamlining and protecting the cabling and connectors from being damaged or causing a snag hazard on the exterior of the helmet.

Most helmets on the market today are covered with Velcro loop to fasten devices like ID patches, IFF devices, and cameras. The attachment strength of Velcro loop material degrades over time, especially with repeated use and environmental wear and tear, so that even Velro attachment which may have been adequate when new can fail over time. Its strength is also dependent upon the compatibility of the Velcro hook on the mating device, which may result in an unreliable connection to the helmet.

The NFM HASP (Helmet Attachment System Pattern) replaces the Velcro loop with a structural web of high-strength composites that provide a stronger and more reliable system throughout the shell exterior. Devices can now be mechanically attached without fear of the connection failing. The HASP is also removable so that it is easily replaced even in the field if it does become damaged.