Portuguese M40/63 Helmet

The Portuguese M40/63 helmet is a modernized version of the original M1940 steel helmet, which served as the primary combat headgear for Portugal's Armed Forces for decades.

Key Characteristics

• Shell Design: It retains the same steel shell as the WWII-era M40. The design was allegedly inspired by the helmets of 15th-century Portuguese soldiers.
• Liner Upgrade: The "63" designation refers to the 1963 modification where the original Swiss-style three-pad leather liner was replaced with a modern suspension system heavily influenced by the U.S. M1 helmet liner.
• Chinstrap: It typically features an improved adjustable canvas.

Historical Service

• Portuguese Colonial War (1961–1974): The M40/63 saw extensive combat use in Africa, specifically in Angola, Mozambique, and Portuguese Guinea.
• Specialized Variants:
  • Airborne/Paratrooper: A version with a 3-point chinstrap and sometimes a "Lizard" pattern camo cover.
  • Security Forces: Used by the Public Security Police (PSP) and the National Republican Guard (GNR).
• Current Status: While largely replaced by PASGT-style Kevlar helmets in the 1990s, it remains in limited use for ceremonial duties by the Military Police.