MICH TC-2000 Combat Helmet

The Modular Integrated Communications Helmet (MICH), also known as the Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH), was developed by the United States Army Soldier Systems Center to be the next generation of protective combat helmets for use by the United States Army.

Service

As of June 2006, it is being fielded throughout the US Army with the goal of eventually replacing the PASGT "K-pot" helmet by the end of 2007. The ACH is approximately 3.5 lb (1.5 kg) lighter than the PASGT, ranging in weight from 3 to 3.6 lb (1.4 to 1.6 kg) depending on the helmet size. It uses a new, more advanced type of Kevlar and provides increased protection against handgun rounds.

Design

A pad system and four-point retention system, similar to the cushions and straps found on bicycle helmets, replaces the nylon cord suspension system, sweatband and chinstrap found on the PASGT helmet. The change provides greater impact protection and comfort for the wearer. It can be fitted with a mounting bracket for an AN/PVS-14 monocular night vision device (MNVD) on the front, similar to that on the PASGT helmet, as seen in the above image. It can also be fitted with a pair of straps on the rear to keep protective eyewear in place, as well as cloth helmet covers in varying camouflage patterns including US Woodland, three-color desert, ACUPAT, and solid black for use with SWAT teams.

Pictured: MICH with AN/PVS-14 (Left) and PASGT (Right)

The ACH is also slightly smaller than the PASGT, providing 8% less coverage. This accounts for some of the reduced weight and allows for both greater situational awareness and less obstruction of the wearer's vision, particularly when combined with Interceptor body armor. Previously, soldiers had complained that the high collar of the Interceptor pushed the back of the helmet forward, in turn moving the helmet brim over their eyes when they attempted to fire from a prone position.

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