Unveiled: Star Wars helmet helping the SAS fight terror

SPECIAL Forces are testing a bullet-proof helmet that looks like it could have come from the set of a science fiction movie.

The Star Wars-style kit uses heat-seeking technology to detect enemies and is air conditioned to protect against heat and toxic gases.

It has already been used by elite US soldiers from the army’s Delta Force and the US navy’s Seals. Now it is understood Britain’s Special Air Service and SBS forces are trying it out in the battle against terrorism.

Devtac, the Japan-based firm behind the full-face Ronin Kevlar helmet, confirmed special forces had bought it but refused to confirm which country’s. The company boasts it is the world’s most advanced helmet and ‘literally bullet-proof’ and it is thought to cost around £1,000. Devtac said it had become increasingly popular this year after it was demonstrated at a military expo in Abu Dhabi.

Its 7mm-thick plates can deflect gunshots from weapons such as an AK-47 and protect against shrapnel, blasts and fire. The plates can be removed and re-attached by the wearer.

Soldiers have a night vision mode as well as an infra-red setting that uses heat-seeking technology to help the troops pinpoint enemies when visibility is poor.

It is also equipped with a GPS system that can bring maps up on to the visor to help the soldiers check their positions. They are able to keep in touch with their base and colleagues via a microphone. The helmet also has a de-fogging system in which air is blown in to clear the lens, meaning wearer should have clear vision at all times.

A military source told the Mirror: ‘For years the defence industry has been trying to find a way of protecting the head and this is the next development. The helmet, already being used by special forces, is much more versatile than just stopping bullets.

‘It is fitted with the latest communications technology and will help the soldier see the enemy no matter what the circumstances.’

Last year it was revealed the Army, defence companies, and the MoD’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory were developing a soldier’s helmet with cameras to send images to commanders. It will also have ‘smart’ glasses which display images to the wearer, such as compass bearings and videos from surveillance drones.

‘Much more versatile’