Mk.10B/C
In 2008, Swiss AF assessments were carried out in order to find an aircraft capable of partially replace the fleet of obsolete F-5E Tigers (TTE - Tiger-TeilErsatz); In 2019, a new combat aircraft - NKF (Neues KampfFlugzeug - new combat aircraft) was being sought.
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Between others,as the F/A-18E/F and (in 2019) the F-35A, took part to both evaluations the Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon and JAS-39 Gripen.
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In 2008, the Typhoons which took part in the assessments were of German AF, the pilots equipped with Gentex ACS helmets; In 2019, the aircrafts were of the RAF; together with the Striker Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) system, British pilots were equipped with Mk.10s.
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The Helmet Integrated Systems Ltd. (since 2014 Gentex Europe Ltd.) Mk.10B and Mk.10C Helmets are of the same build standard, however the Mk.10C supersedes the Mk.10B and includes a reinforced shell, improved sound attenuation and re-routed donning tape loops. The Mk.10C shell has pre-drilled holes for the fitting of a boom microphone.
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Mk.10 series helmets are compatible with a wide range of oxygen masks and protective clothing. A double visor system that comprises two optically clear polycarbonate visors is fitted to the shell, both visors for blast and the tinted outer one for glare protection. Each visor operates independently with down-lock and up-lock on mechanisms fitted on the sides of the helmet. Movement of the outer visor is controlled on by the LH mechanism lever, the inner visor controlled by the RH mechanism lever.
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Polyurethane fairings are fitted to the shell behind the visor mechanisms to prevent parachute riser snagging.
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Oxygen Masks (types P, Q and V) are secured to the helmet via Mask Quick Release attachments (MQR). MQR has been designed to improve mask retention under windblast and other escape conditions. The assembly permits rapid connection and adjustment of a wire harness, which interfaces with the mask's toggle frame.
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If an NVG system is not used, the holes for installing the mounting bracket are usually blanked with screws.
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If required, the helmet's comm standard (UK) NATO plug is replaced by modifications with LEMO connectors (The company took its name from the company founder,engineer Léon Mouttet), configured according to the asset on which the helmet is to operate.
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The Velcro patch on the right side of the shell is used to attach a light marker/strobe light fitted as a location aid.
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in our pictures a Mk.10B with a P-Type oxygen mask.