Troops fighting on the front line will get better personal protection from this autumn, with the introduction of improved helmet and body armour.

Currently soldiers are issued with Combat Body Armour (CBA), which can be further reinforced with ceramic armour plates (Enhanced Body Armour (EBA)).

More than 10,000 sets of the enhanced Mark 7 helmet and the Osprey Assault body armour have been ordered.

The new helmet and body armour will provide excellent ballistic protection, while improving the comfort of personnel on operations in Afghanistan.

The Mk7 helmet has the same protection as the current Mk6A but will improve the effectiveness of the soldier. Both helmets allow the soldier to wear a respirator, ear defenders, goggles and a radio set, as necessary.

Close fitting

A new harness keeps the helmet more stable on the head when Night Vision equipment is fitted to it. It is better integrated with new weapon sights, making it easier to use weapons in a variety of fighting positions.

The new Osprey Assault body armour has all the stopping power of the current Osprey but is closer fitting, less bulky and easier to move in.

It is specifically developed to meet our requirements using cutting edge materials and manufacturing technology.