We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. You can Modify or Reject the use of the cookies. See our cookie policy.
Belgium. Belgian RECCE Helmet for Armored and Reconnaissance Units
The Belgian RECCE helmet was a reproduction of the British RAC helmet used by the United Kingdom Army during World War II. The main difference between both models lay in the materials used for the shell and the chinstrap in the Belgian version, which was manufactured after the war.
The original RAC helmet design appeared in 1941, when the Directorate of Armored Fighting Vehicle Equipment sought a solution to protect armored vehicle crews from shrapnel and explosions while operating outside their tanks. The existing crash helmets offered no ballistic protection and were therefore inadequate. Although the Mark II helmet could partially fulfill this role, it was difficult to store inside vehicles. Consequently, a new type of helmet was designed and manufactured specifically for armored and reconnaissance units.
The Belgian RECCE helmet was introduced in 1951 and used the same liner as the Model 49 helmet.
This example has an interior marked «A.B.L 1949» for «Armée Belge – Belgisch Leger» (Belgian Army) and the year the liner model was introduced. Below appears the marking «X.B. 1951» for the manufacturer Xavier Buisset and the year of manufacture, along with the size number 54.
It has the national flag of Belgium painted on the side.
