British HGU-33 Aircrew Flying Helmet
This is a pretty unique helmet, as it is a type of American designed and produced helemt used in the RAF.
It was used specifically for the fifteen F4J(UK) Phatoms (F3) that were bought second hand from the US Navy in 1984 for 74 Sqn, Wattisham.
These helmets were used along with other American items of the AEA as the aircraft initially arrived with American specification ejection seats and other equipent. At some point, the seats and other associated equiment were upgraded to UK specifications, which resulted in the American HGU-33 helmlets being replaced by British Mk14 helmets, but the masks used remained American MBU-14.
They were slightly Anglicised by the addition of British ear capsules and chin strap in place of the original American ones.
Exhibits
74 Squadron HGU-33 Helmet and MBU-14 Oxygen Mask
These photos came from eBay listing by user Areazur. This first image, you can notice that the chin strap has been changed for a British chin strap similar to that used on later Mk4A helmets.
This image shows the green ear seals inside the helmet of the British ear capsules used.
Service Images
74 Squadron Aircrew, date unknown
This image shows these RAF HGU-33 helmets in use on 74 Sqn. It is interesting to note one airman wears American G-Trousers, the other is wearing British (with white knee boards).
