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SSh-60
SSh-60
SSh-60
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A Ukrainian soldier with a SSh-60 helmet

Key Information

SSh-60 export helmet liner. Note that it is a lighter color compared to that of standard issue helmets

The SSh-60 (СШ-60 (Russian: стальной шлем образца 1960 года/stalnoy shlyem, or steel helmet) was a product improvement of the Soviet SSh-40 steel helmet of the Soviet Army and entered production around 1960. It was not fundamentally different from the previous World War 2 era SSh-40, the primary difference being an updated liner/suspension system.

Design

[edit]

The overall form and shell of the helmet remained unchanged. The internal harness was modified to include four brown vynil flaps (rather than three as with the SSh-40) attached to the dome rivets. The flaps were moved to the top of the helmet along with two rivets and the chin strap.[1][2] The flaps of the liner were threaded together with an adjustable white cord tie and they weren't padded as previous models, allowing the user to wear a fur winter cap (ushanka) beneath the helmet, by adjusting the ties accordingly.[2]

An export version of the SSh-60 exists, designed for sale and exportation to other countries outside of the Soviet Union. It differs from the main issue helmet only with a change to the color of the helmet liner.[citation needed]

While SSh-60 was intended to replace the SSh-40, it never fully did. After the introduction of the newer SSh-68, it continued to be used by several units as mixed issues.[2] During the Soviet-Afghan War, both the SSh-40 and SSh-60 still remained in use with the Soviet Army.[3]

The SSh-60 was exported to some Warsaw Pact members,[2] and other countries including Vietnam, where it was mostly used by North Vietnamese Army anti-aircraft artillery crews during the Vietnam War;[4] Syrian troops were issued with SSh-60s during the Yom Kippur war; Prior to the Iran-Iraq war, the Iraqi Army used the Polish wz. 50 besides SSh-40 and SSh-60 helmets, but these were gradually replaced by the M80 helmet.[5]

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SSh-60

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The SSh-60 (Russian: СШ-60, стальной шлем образца 1960 года, "steel helmet of the 1960 model") is a developed for the as a direct successor and improvement to the World War II-era SSh-40 helmet. Introduced in 1960, the SSh-60 retained the distinctive rounded shell shape of its predecessor—stamped from a single sheet of mild —for continuity in production and familiarity among troops, while incorporating a modernized internal liner system consisting of four adjustable vinyl flaps secured by a cord for enhanced fit and comfort across varying head sizes. The helmet featured a tan leather chinstrap (rough side out) and was finished in olive-green paint, weighing approximately 1.3 kg and available in three sizes to accommodate standard military sizing. Produced in limited numbers at the Red October Factory in during the 1960s, the SSh-60 served as interim standard head protection for Soviet infantry and armored units into the , emphasizing ballistic resistance to fragments and low-velocity impacts rather than direct rifle fire. It was issued to allies and exported to Soviet-aligned nations, appearing in conflicts such as the Soviet-Afghan War and remaining in limited service or surplus use into the post-Soviet era, including the as of 2024. The design's simplicity and low cost facilitated production, though it was gradually replaced as standard issue by the more advanced model starting in the late 1960s.

Development and History

Origins and Predecessors

The SSh-60 helmet evolved directly from the steel combat helmets, which served as the primary head protection for the Soviet during . These predecessors were manufactured from pressed steel sheets, typically 1-1.2 mm thick, designed to offer fundamental ballistic resistance against shrapnel, fragments, and low-velocity impacts rather than direct gunfire. The SSh-39, adopted in 1939, marked a shift toward a more streamlined profile by removing the prominent comb ridge and reducing the brim and side flares present in earlier designs like the , thereby improving mobility and reducing the "sail effect" in windy conditions. The SSh-40, introduced in as an refinement of the SSh-39, further simplified the construction while enhancing attachment points for the interior liner, using six rivets instead of three to secure it more reliably to the shell. This model retained the pressed steel fabrication process, with the shell stamped from a single disc of low-carbon , often 36SGN or 36SG grades, heat-treated for hardness. Despite their durability in combat, both helmets prioritized over advanced features, resulting in a basic design that saw extensive use through the war and into the immediate postwar period. Key limitations of the SSh-40, which carried over from the SSh-39, included an outdated liner system composed of pads and a chinstrap that provided inconsistent fit and comfort, particularly when worn over winter or during extended operations. The absence of ventilation holes in the shell contributed to poor , exacerbating heat buildup and sweat accumulation in varied climates. Additionally, the helmet's featured vulnerabilities in curved transition areas, such as the 8-10 mm strip from the brim to , where reduced fragment resistance compared to flat sections. These shortcomings became more apparent in the postwar era as Soviet forces evaluated equipment for reliability in diverse environments. In the years following 1945, amid intensifying rivalries and the need for mechanized forces capable of rapid deployment, the Soviet military identified the necessity for helmet upgrades emphasizing improved comfort and adaptability without sacrificing core protection.

Introduction and Production

The SSh-60 (Стальной шлем образца 1960 года, or "steel helmet of the 1960 model") was officially adopted by the in 1960 as the standard combat helmet, superseding the SSh-40 from . This adoption marked a post-war modernization effort to update protective headgear for Cold War-era forces, with the SSh-60 featuring an improved internal liner for enhanced fit and comfort while retaining the basic shell design of its predecessor. Manufacturing of the SSh-60 occurred primarily at the Red October Factory (Krasnyy Oktyabr) in , where the helmet shell was stamped from a single sheet of low-carbon steel measuring 1-1.2 mm in thickness. The steel underwent to improve hardness and ballistic resistance against shrapnel and low-velocity impacts, resulting in a helmet weight of approximately 1.3 kg for the medium . Helmets were produced in three s—1, 2, and 3—to accommodate varying head circumferences, with production markings indicating , year, and factory details stamped or inked on the interior. The liner initially used four pads, later transitioning to synthetic vinyl material. Adopted in 1960, small testing batches were manufactured and refined in 1961, with commencing in 1966 for widespread issuance across Soviet units. Over the following decade, millions of SSh-60 helmets were manufactured to equip the expanding Soviet military, with output continuing until 1972 despite the introduction of the successor in 1968. Export variants, adapted for international allies, began appearing in the 1970s for distribution to nations and other Soviet client states.

Phasing Out and Legacy

The production of the SSh-60 helmet ended in 1973, as the Red October plant in transitioned to manufacturing the improved model, marking the phasing out of active issuance in the during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Despite this, substantial stockpiles remained in reserve units and continued to see limited service through the , particularly in training and secondary roles, alongside the newer . In , surplus SSh-60 helmets have endured as a practical legacy of Soviet military equipment, often repurposed in irregular forces and militias due to their availability and robustness. These helmets have appeared in various regional conflicts, including documented use by both sides in the from 2014 onward, with battle-damaged examples recovered as recently as 2024 in areas like . The SSh-60 holds significant collectible value today among enthusiasts of militaria, prized for its role in bridging II-era designs with post-war Soviet standardization. Identification for authenticity relies on factory markings stamped inside the rear skirt, such as two-digit codes for production years (e.g., "66" for 1966) and size indicators, which distinguish it from similar models like the SSh-40 or SSh-68.

Design and Specifications

Helmet Shell

The SSh-60 helmet features a rounded shell identical in shape to that of its predecessor, the SSh-40, designed to provide overhead and partial side protection while allowing for visibility and mobility. The shell has a base diameter of approximately 30 cm, incorporates six holes for attachment of the liner system, and includes a rolled brim along the edge to deflect impacts and debris. The overall shell weighs between 1.3 and 1.5 kg, contributing to the helmet's balance for extended wear. The shell is constructed from a carbon-silicon-manganese-nickel , specifically grade 36SGN, with a thickness of 1.14–1.22 mm in standard areas and up to 1.38 mm on the thickened sides. This material provides ballistic resistance primarily against shrapnel and low-velocity projectiles. It offers partial protection against 7.62 mm pistol rounds, such as the , at ranges up to 65 meters. The design prioritizes fragment protection over direct fire, reflecting Soviet emphasizing and explosive threats. The exterior is finished with an olive drab for resistance and basic in temperate environments, applied directly to the surface. The shell integrates with the internal liner system via rivets, ensuring secure attachment without compromising the outer structure's integrity.

Liner and Suspension System

The liner system of the SSh-60 helmet features four adjustable vinyl flaps secured by a cord, providing internal support and comfort for the wearer and accommodating head circumferences ranging from to 62 cm for a secure fit. The system includes a tan chinstrap (rough side out) secured by a metal , attached via two lower rivets on either side of the for stability during use. Compared to the predecessor SSh-40, the SSh-60's suspension system introduced significant improvements, including the shift from three pads to four adjustable for enhanced shock absorption and reduced direct contact between the head and the shell. Later production batches incorporated additional padding within the pads to further mitigate impact forces, improving overall wearer protection and comfort. These modifications addressed limitations in the earlier design, such as inadequate cushioning during prolonged wear. Maintenance of the liner and suspension requires periodic treatment of the components with oils to prevent cracking and maintain flexibility, particularly in varying environmental conditions. Common issues include degradation of the cord and chinstrap after extended use, necessitating and replacement to preserve functionality. The system is compatible with the helmet's outer shell, allowing easy removal for cleaning or repairs.

Sizes and Markings

The SSh-60 helmet was produced in three standardized sizes to accommodate varying head circumferences, with corresponding slight variations to ensure balance and comfort. Size 1 was designed for head circumferences of 54-56 cm, size 2 for 57-58 cm, and size 3 for 59-62 cm, each weighing approximately 1.3 kg. Internal stamps, typically inked or embossed near the rear or inside the shell, indicated the specific size and the manufacturing factory for inventory and maintenance purposes. Identification markings on the SSh-60 were primarily functional and symbolic, aiding in quick recognition and traceability. A small embossed under the front denoted its official issue status and ballistic approval. Production year was marked with two digits (e.g., "60" for 1960), often stamped or inked alongside the size at the rear or base. Factory codes were stamped internally or on the rim to identify the production facility. Quality control was enforced through stamps applied by factory technicians, verifying compliance with Soviet standards for integrity and assembly. Helmets failing these inspections received rejection marks, such as crossed-out stamps or specific defect notations, to prevent distribution and facilitate of substandard . These markings ensured uniformity across production runs from multiple .

Operational Use

Soviet Armed Forces

The SSh-60 steel helmet served as the standard head protection for the from its introduction in 1960 until the mid-1970s, when it began to be supplemented and gradually replaced by the SSh-68 model following the latter's adoption in 1973. It was issued primarily to , (airborne), and motorized rifle units as the primary during this period, forming an integral part of the soldier's individual equipment kit. In , the SSh-60 was emphasized in training manuals for mandatory wear during field maneuvers, live-fire exercises, and tactical drills to simulate combat conditions and protect against shrapnel and debris. It was prominently used in large-scale exercises conducted by the Group of Soviet Forces in (GSFG), the Soviet military grouping stationed in , where troops nicknamed it "gedërka" due to its distinctive shape. The helmet integrated seamlessly with the 1968-pattern field uniform (M-68 tunic and trousers), providing coordinated protection and camouflage in or olive drab for operations across varied terrains. Logistically, the SSh-60 was distributed as a core component of each conscript's and professional soldier's basic kit upon assignment to units, with production standardized in three sizes (I for head circumferences ≤55 cm, II for 56-58 cm, and III for ≥59 cm) to ensure fit across the force. Helmets were packed in wooden crates containing 30 units in a typical ratio of 12 size I, 16 size II, and 2 size III for efficient , and replacements were routinely provided for damage or wear during service, supporting sustained availability without reported major disruptions during peak deployment years. Approximately 10 million units of its successor were produced by , indicating robust logistical continuity from the SSh-60 era.

International Adoption

The SSh-60 steel helmet was exported to countries such as Poland, , and starting from 1965, forming part of broader Soviet military assistance programs during the , with recipient forces frequently adding local markings to the standard design for unit identification. In the 1970s, the helmet gained adoption among non-aligned states including , , and , contributing to total exports reaching over 20 countries allied with or receiving aid from the . These versions often featured recipient-specific adaptations, such as Arabic stamps on Egyptian models and the incorporation of local liners to suit environmental or logistical needs in tropical or desert conditions.

Modern Conflicts

In the (2014–present), the SSh-60 has been sighted among Donbas militias and Russian-backed separatists, as well as Ukrainian volunteer forces, due to equipment shortages and reliance on Soviet-era surplus. These helmets, drawn from old stockpiles, have been employed in and urban assaults, particularly in the region where modern protective gear is scarce. As of 2025, continued use has been documented among Russian convict units in battles such as . The SSh-60's construction offers basic protection against shrapnel but is outdated against contemporary threats like rounds.

Variants and Improvements

Early Modifications

Following its initial production in , the SSh-60 underwent several minor updates during the to address practical issues without altering the core design. These adjustments represented quality enhancements rather than major redesigns, primarily involving variations in factory markings such as size indicators and production years on the rear, which remained consistent in format across updates.

Relation to SSh-68

The was introduced in 1968 as the direct successor to the SSh-60, featuring a similar shell design but with a liner system similar to the SSh-60 including added ventilation openings to reduce buildup during extended wear. The SSh-60 was gradually phased out in parallel with the rollout of the across Soviet forces during the 1970s. Key comparative improvements in the SSh-68 included a weight of approximately 1.3 kg (ranging from 1.23 to 1.35 kg depending on size)—similar to the 1.3 kg of the —and bolstered protection through a redesigned lower-profile dome and steeper front slope, which enhanced ballistic resistance and wearer mobility. An overlap period saw both helmets maintained in Soviet inventories into the late 1970s and beyond, after which the SSh-60 was primarily relegated to training and reserve units.

References

  1. https://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30100339
  2. https://warfarehistorynetwork.com/article/helmets-of-the-superpowers-soviet-and-american-attract-collectors/
  3. https://www.praporchik.com/products/s1-ssh-60-helmet
  4. https://www.warrelics.eu/forum/world-steel-helmets/early-production-ssh-60-helmet-1966-a-837477/
  5. https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/SSh-60
  6. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpY1RarITRk
  7. https://www.tankarchives.com/2017/08/whose-helmet-was-better.html
  8. https://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30102277
  9. https://internationalmilitaria.wordpress.com/2021/01/11/guide-on-identifying-soviet-russian-ssh40-ssh60-and-ssh68/
  10. https://brendonshelmets.weebly.com/soviet-ssh60.html
  11. https://www.frontowiec.com/en/helmets-and-headsets/451-helmet-ssh-60.html
  12. https://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/45336-oiling-your-helmets-other-helmet-preservation-misconceptions/
  13. https://www.etsy.com/listing/1346810668/ssh-60-size-2-vintage-soviet-hard-hat
  14. https://pnevmat.by/p113650022-kaska-ssh-obraztsa.html
  15. http://soviet-helmets.com/Helmets/Helmet_Stamps_01.html
  16. https://www.warrelics.eu/forum/headgear-steel-helmets-rkka-red-army-soviet-army/my-ssh60-helmet-wondering-wich-factory-is-3ko-787662/
  17. https://www.kalashnikov.ru/medialibrary/afb/posledni-stalnoi.pdf
  18. https://www.kalashnikov.ru/poslednij-stalnoj-shlem-ssh-68-na-armejskoj-sluzhbe/
  19. http://www.russianwarrior.com/1969_uni_index_army.htm
  20. https://www.militarytrader.com/militaria-collectibles/from-behind-the-iron-curtain-communist-bloc-helmets
  21. https://www.choweyarmor.com/news/equipment-in-russian-ukrainian-war-tactical-helmet-equipment.html
  22. https://equipment.fandom.com/wiki/SSh-68
  23. https://artofwar.zone/museum/ssh-68-2/
  24. https://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30100337
  25. https://www.warrelics.eu/forum/headgear-steel-helmets-rkka-red-army-soviet-army/helmet-russian-ssh60-ssh68-26319/
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