(FAST) Helmet, also known as the FAST helmet, is a combat helmet used by special operations forces and law enforcement organizations.
The FAST helmet series is characteristic for its shell shape – ear cut geometry which extends critical coverage over the rear occipital bone without load carrier interference, and optimizes weight distribution for increased stability, integration, balance, and improved comfort. Along with the cut, the helmet is distinctive by one of its primary design features including the various suspension and retention systems, and the ARC rails similar to picatinny rails enable users to mount different items like helmet lights and cameras.
Compared to standard combat helmets, the FAST helmet offers up to 25% weight reduction and is notable for its early use of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene fibers (UHMWPE) in its design.It was also designed to allow outside features such as wearing communications headsets which can be attached with rail adapters.
The FAST helmet ranges in weight from about 315 to 1034 g (0.69 to 2.28 lbs). The type of UHMWPE material for the FAST models provides increased protection against handgun rounds. It can be fitted with a mounting bracket, patented first in 2014,for accessories like night vision goggles and comm headsets,similar to PASGT and MICH.
Users can wear it with different communications headsets with ease and comfort. It has different color options, such as foliage green, black, olive green, ranger green, tan 499, urban grey, MultiCam and desert MARPAT. As well as having mesh and cloth helmet covers in varying camouflage patterns.