Designed to keep pace with innovations in flight technology and emerging mission scenarios, the HGU-56/P helmet system offers modular engineering for cross-platform use within multiple U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force , Coast Guard, Law Enforcement and civilian rotary aircraft. The helmet’s enhanced design features a multitude of options to improve aircrew personnel fit, functionality, mission adaptability and essential head safety and protection.

The design of the HGU-56/P offers the following to aircrew personnel:

• Improved communications clarity
• Lightweight construction improves long-term comfort
• Reduced noise levels protect against hearing loss
• Superior side impact protection
• Custom-fit Thermo Plastic Liner (TPL ®) for increased comfort
• Dual visor provided clear and sunshade protection; laser visor optional
• Integrated design mounts for sights, displays and Night Vision Goggles
• Improved chin strap and retention system reduces aircrew impact injury
• Compatible with a variety of NBC masks

The helmet is available in Solar White, Aircraft Green, Coast Guard Blue and additional colors available upon request. An optional helmet bag for proper storage and protection is available. Impact testing is accomplished at high and ambient temperature only and headform deceleration is limited to 150G in the crown and 175G in the headband area. Lateral impact in the earcup area does not exceed 150G with a drop velocity of 6.0 m/sec. When tested in accordance with ANSI Z90.1b-1979 using a 1950 Newton tension equivalent load for two minutes, the chinstrap does not elongate more than 3.8 cm from the preload of 110 Newton.

• VISORS: The helmet comes standard with both clear visor and neutral visors. For particularly demanding mission requirements, laser visors, high contrast visors and gradient visors are available as upgrades from Gentex to improve visual acuity in day, night, or inclement weather conditions. All Gentex visors are made of polycarbonate and meet all performance requirements of MIL-V-43511, have an abrasion-resistant coating on the front and back surfaces in accordance with MIL-C-83409, and protect the wearer from 99.4% of UV (a), UV (b), and UV(c) light.

• OXYGEN MASK BAYONETS: Oxygen mask adapter kits can be ordered for field installation, so the MBU-12/P Oxygen mask can be donned in high-altitude environments.

• COMMUNICATIONS: All HGU-56/P helmets can be readily modified to install the Communication Ear Plug (CEP), which is now standard on all U.S. Army flight helmets.
The HGU-56/P comes with a wire boom standard, and an option upgrade to a flexible boom assembly.

• MAXILLOFACIAL SHIELD: The HGU-56/P can also be upgraded to include the Maxillofacial Shield (MFS), specifically designed to protect the lower face from flying debris common to the helicopter environment.