Worn over a G-Type helmet, the Lightweight Mk1A was basically a cut-down version of the Mk1A helmet, where the sides were replaced with leather flaps terminating in a chin strap.
There is a distinct lack of primary evidence around this helmet, but I have been told they were intended for the navigator of certain Canberra aircraft such as the B(I)8.
There are rumours online that these helets were also trialled with V-Bomber crews in 1965.
Pontius Navigator
15th Dec 2011, 20:10
In 1965 there was a trial of a new lightweight and ventilated helmet to try and overcome V-force resistance (of wearinf Mk1A's). It was like a pudding basin or the old style motorbike helmets. It was painted white, had ventilation holes and IIRC a leather edging for the chin strap. It was very popular and assessed as useless.
One AEO selected for the trial refused to hand his back.Ancient Squipper
19th Dec 2011, 17:04
Pontius
I remember that 1/2 pudding basin or was it colander protective helmet being issued on trial to several nav/ bomb aimers at RAF Bruggen for use when flying with the Canberra B(I)6 Hornet Squadron.
I think the idea was to make it easier for the bomb aimer to gain access to tbe nose section of the aircraft when flying the LABS(bomb tossing/flinging) manoeuvre which I should imagine was quite violent with every chance of bashing his head/helmet in such a confined space.
Some of the guys kept their helmets after the trial for that purpose
Never ever saw one again after leaving Bruggen.
A friend recently acquired one of these helmets. This page awaits the photos.