Gentex awarded $27,000,000 contract for Head Gear Unit 56/P Rotary Wing Helmet.

Gentex Corp, Simpson, Pennsylvania, was awarded a $27,860,817 firm-fixed-price contract for the Head Gear Unit 56/P Rotary Wing Helmet. 

Head Gear Unit 56/P Rotary Wing Helmet (Picture source: Gentex)

Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of April 25, 2024.

Designed to keep pace with innovations in flight technology and emerging mission scenarios, the GENTEX HGU-56/P helmet system offers modular engineering for cross-platform use within multiple Army, 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. Capewell is a Military distributor, exclusive for US Army and USCG for GENTEX.

The helmet comes standard with both clear and neutral visors. For particularly demanding mission requirements, laser visors, high contrast and gradient visors are available from 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 and have an abrasion-resistant coating on the front and back surfaces in accordance with MIL-C-83409. The outer visor housing can also easily be configured for Night Vision Goggles (NVG).

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. An optional helmet bag for proper storage and protection is available. Oxygen mask bayonets can also be ordered for field installation, so the MBU 12/P Oxygen mask can be donned in high-altitude environments.

All HGU-56/P rotary wing helmets can be readily modified to install the Communication Ear Plug (CEP), which is now standard on all U.S. Army flight helmets and which greatly enhances communications and hearing protection.