U.S. Army EOD-8 Bomb Helmet Set, MED-ENG Systems
This is an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) 8 bomb helmet from 2003. United States military EOD technicians use the helmet while disposing of live ordnance, such as roadside bombs or other IEDs. The helmet is a part of an Advance Bomb Suit introduced in the late 1990s that is engineered to protect the technician should a detonation occur. It is a fully enclosed system designed to protect not only from fragmentation but also from blunt force to the neck and head. To this extent the helmet includes a thick padded interior that is adjustable by inserting additional pads. The chinstrap, which includes a hard plastic chin cup, is designed to fasten securely around the neck to minimize movement. A flap at the front protects the neck from fragmentation wounds. The entire helmet shell is made from a lightweight but durable fiber.
The helmet also provides a small level of comfort required for bomb disposal. A rubber handle sticking out of the front securely attaches a large clear front visor. This provides a wide field of vision for the technician to work. Two pipes lead around the side of the helmet and provide airflow directly into the helmet. The fan for the airflow system is placed in a fiber tube that hangs from the back. There is also an integrated microphone system that helps amplify outside noise, allowing the wearer to be able to hear even when wearing the helmet.
Included with the kit is a head-mounted lamp that plugs directly into the helmet, which is powered by a separate battery box and includes controls to adjust the airflow system. The integrated microphone is also powered by this supply. In addition several extra pads, visor replacements, a visor cover, and carrying bag are included. A number of documents with the kit provide information on how to install the power supply, how to put on the helmet properly, and how to quickly remove it in case of emergency. Med-Eng Systems Inc. produced the helmet and most of the items in the kit in 2003, during the early years of the War in Afghanistan and Iraq War.
| United States | Post-Cold War |
| Infantry Helmet | |
| Med-Eng Systems Inc. | |
| USH-551-0112 | |
