What is 10 Second War Stories?

10 Second War Stories brings military history to life through stories, veteran profile, force profiles, and equipment guides across all nations and conflicts.

What is the SSh-40 helmet?

The SSh-40 is a round steel helmet designed to protect the heads of soldiers. It was made from pressed steel at famous factories like the one in Stalingrad. Because it was very strong and simple to build, it became the most recognizable piece of gear for Russian soldiers during World War II.

What was the main role of this helmet?

This helmet kept soldiers safe from dangerous flying metal pieces from exploding shells. It also protected their heads from falling dirt, rocks, and other debris during heavy fighting. By blocking these small but deadly hazards, it helped keep many soldiers alive on the battlefield.

When was the SSh-40 helmet first used?

The helmet was first introduced in 1940. This was just before the Soviet Union became a major part of World War II. It quickly became the main helmet used by their army throughout the entire war.

What is a notable fact about how it was worn?

Inside the helmet, there was a special harness made of cloth pads. This was very important because it let soldiers adjust the fit. Because of this design, soldiers could wear the helmet over a thick winter hat when the weather got very cold.

What is the historical legacy of the SSh-40?

This helmet was so easy and cheap to make that it was produced in huge numbers for a long time. It was used by many different countries for several decades after World War II. It remained a common sight in conflicts like the Korean and Vietnam wars because it was so reliable.

Home Library RussiaSSh-40 Steel Helmet

Combat Helmet

SSh-40 Steel Helmet

A durable steel helmet that protected the heads of Russian infantrymen from falling dirt and flying shell fragments.

Russia Introduced 1940 Lysva Metallurgical Plant and Stalingrad Tractor FactoryRole: Infantry head protection

Specifications

Weight

2.8 pounds

Material

Silicon-manganese steel

Thickness

1.2 millimeters

Liner Type

Three adjustable pads

History

The SSh-40 helmet was introduced just before the Soviet Union entered World War II. It was made from pressed ballistic steel and had a smooth, rounded dome. Inside, an adjustable cloth pad and three-pad harness held it comfortably on a soldier's head, even over a thick winter cap.

The helmet was simple and inexpensive to produce in huge numbers. It shielded soldiers from deadly shell splinters, rock chips, and bomb debris. The SSh-40 remained standard military equipment for decades, serving through the Cold War and appearing in allied armies during the Korean and Vietnam conflicts.