Polish Wz.63 Paratroopers Helmet

The Polish wz. 63 (also nicknamed the "orzeszek" or "little nut") is a steel helmet specifically designed for Polish airborne troops and introduced in 1963. It is well-known for its compact, rimless design, which was ideal for paratroopers as it prevented the helmet from snagging on parachute lines.

Key Features

• Design: The helmet features an oval shell without a visor or neck guard. It is typically finished in a smooth khaki paint.
• Liner: It is equipped with a leather "pilotka" (an aviator-style cap) and a shock-absorbing foam roll to protect the wearer during landings.
• Ventilation: Includes two ventilation holes on each side of the shell.
• Weight: Approximately 1.5 kg including the full liner and chin strap system.

Historical Usage

While originally Polish, the wz. 63 was widely exported and used by other nations and units:

• East Germany (GDR): It was the standard helmet for the 40. Fallschirmjägerbataillon.
• Iraq: Used by the Iraqi army under Saddam Hussein.
• Replacement: The Polish military officially began replacing it with the composite HP-03 helmet around 2015.