Yugoslav Ne44 Helmet M59/85

The Yugoslav NE44 helmet, officially known as the M1959 (or M59), was the standard combat helmet of the Yugoslav People's Army (JNA) from 1959 onward.

Characteristics of the M1959 (NE44) helmet

• Origin of the name NE44: The informal name "NE44" likely refers to the Battle of the Neretva in 1944, or to the factory in Serbia where production later took place.
• Design and shape: The shape is heavily inspired by German World War II combat helmets (such as the M42), but features a flatter top and shorter, flared edges on the sides. The design also bears similarities to the Spanish M34 helmet.
• Liner: The interior utilizes a webbing system based on the American Riddell system (known from the US M1 helmet). The liner is mounted to the steel shell using rectangular retention washers.
• Color and markings: The helmets are standard-issued in a grey-green or sea-green olive color (Sivo Maslinasta Boja). Originally, a red star was painted or stenciled onto the front. Rarer dark blue variants existed for the police and air force.

Later modifications and deployment

In 1985, the helmet was modified into the M59/85. The back of the helmet shell was slightly curved upward, allowing soldiers to lie flat on their stomachs more comfortably without the helmet pushing into their necks. This later variant also featured an improved liner with triangular mounting rings.

The M1959 and M59/85 helmets were deployed on a massive scale during the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s. During this conflict, the red stars were frequently painted over or covered with national stickers and emblems by the various warring factions (such as Croats, Bosnians, and Serbs).