French military trials futuristic Japanese Ronin helmet
The French Army's Battle-Lab Terre laboratory is testing a fascinating Ronin helmet from Japan, which protects not only the wearer's head but also their face from handgun bullets and shrapnel. We explore how this helmet, reminiscent of a Predator mask, functions.
The French Battle-Lab Terre laboratory is proud to be testing the futuristic Ronin helmet from the Japanese company Devtac, first introduced in 2017. It is undergoing tests for its effectiveness in combat conditions, similar to those in Ukraine, where close trench fighting and the threat of artillery shrapnel are everyday occurrences.
The Ronin, crafted from Kevlar with interchangeable ballistic plates up to 7 millimetres thick, is designed to provide level IIIA protection according to NIJ standards. This means it can withstand bullets from .44 Magnum cartridges, and the lenses are resistant to shotgun pellet fire, offering 80% protection of the wearer's head. Additionally, it features a ventilation system with two fans to ensure air circulation, powered by AAA batteries that allow for six hours of operation.
The helmet also has rails that enable the mounting of night vision devices, torches, or other accessories as needed by the user. The entire helmet weighs between 6 and 7 kilograms, depending on the size, and consists of two parts.
Psychological advantages and issues of futuristic helmets
Despite its advantages, the Ronin restricts the field of view and limits access to fresh air. The concept of face protection is not new, as similar trials were conducted in the USA in the late 2010s. The current tests in France may lead to the modernisation of the Slam F3+ helmet.
Nonetheless, the Japanese Ronin helmet has garnered interest among some special military or police units and has become an inspiration for the film industry. Its futuristic appearance alone can instil fear in opponents, as was the case with the gas masks with hoods used by the renowned British SAS unit, for instance.
