Rheinmetall has unveiled a next-generation combat helmet and a modular body armor suite, broadening its range of personal protection systems for armed forces.
The new equipment is designed to lower overall weight, enhance ergonomics, and enable soldiers to tailor protection levels and configurations to suit different mission profiles. Rheinmetall is showcasing the body armor system at Enforce Tac 2026 in Nuremberg.
The helmet builds on the company’s position as a NATO supplier, following large-scale deliveries under recent German procurement contracts. Constructed from high-performance polyethylene composite materials, it reduces weight while maintaining ballistic protection standards.
Offered in both high-cut and full-cut variants, the helmet allows users to balance increased coverage with improved compatibility for communications headsets and accessories. An upgraded retention system and revised internal padding enhance comfort and stability during prolonged use. Improved mounting rails and attachment interfaces better support night-vision systems and other helmet-mounted devices, while eliminating the need for a separate hairnet streamlines integration with additional gear.
The modular body armor system can be configured according to operational demands. Soft ballistic inserts protect the torso, including the front, back, and abdomen, while optional hard plates increase resistance against higher-caliber threats. Additional modules safeguard the neck, shoulders, upper arms, and thighs from fragmentation and stabbing hazards. The system also incorporates a chest rig, utility pouches, and transport bags, enabling troops to carry ammunition and mission equipment alongside protective components.
