Gentex HGU-56/P prototype helmet, c.1984
The prototype's first visit to an AH-1 Cobra to see how things fit up. It had started with this drawing
and eventually a very much changed design went into production as the HGU-56/P aircrew helmet.
This image shows the helmet complete with chemical-defense mask, air supplies for breathing and lens defog, and protective shroud to seal the neck. These items did not make it into the final production helmet system.
Gentex HGU-56/P prototype helmet, c.1984
The prototype's first visit to an AH-1 Cobra to see how things fit up. It had started with this drawing
and eventually a very much changed design went into production as the HGU-56/P aircrew helmet.
This image shows the helmet complete with chemical-defense mask, air supplies for breathing and lens defog, and protective shroud to seal the neck. These items did not make it into the final production helmet system.