The Kolpak-20 () is a Russian combat helmet designed by NPO SpetsMaterialov (NPO SM) that is currently used by the Russian Armed Forces. Its armor rating is listed as GOST BR2 by its manufacturer.
History The Kolpak-20 was designed and produced specifically in order to fill in the gaps of Russian military stockpile shortages in the wake of the Russo-Ukrainian war (2022–present). The helmet has openly been described as a "half measure" and "substitute" for better ballistic helmets.
The Kolpak-20 was mostly issued to troops mobilized in the 2022 Russian mobilization, and has been seen in use by Russian forces in nearly every major Russo-Ukrainian battle since its introduction. Design The Kolpak-20 is composed of a SSh-40 steel outer shell and a polyethylene inner shell. On the outer shell, there are four rivets which are used to hold the shells and the helmet's suspension together. The helmet's suspension consists of 5 pads, a neck nape pad, and a plastic quick release chinstrap. The Kolpak-20's design does not allow the user to wear hearing protection, communication devices, or use night vision goggles.
The choice of using leftover WW2-era SSh-40 shells drew criticism from both Ukrainian news as well as Russian soldiers who were issued the Kolpak-20. Mounting pressure eventually forced Russian state media to have to address concerns surrounding the Kolpak-20's ballistic capabilities.
Users
Current
Former
- Captured and worn by Ukrainian soldiers in the early stages of the Russo-Ukrainian war (2022–present).
Gallery
See also SSh-39 and SSh-40
References