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Indian M74 Helmet

The Indian M74 helmet is a Cold War era combat helmet introduced in the 1970s and widely issued to the Indian Army. Unlike many contemporary steel helmets, the M74 is constructed from fiberglass, reflecting a different approach to weight and manufacturing rather than traditional ballistic protection.

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The helmet features a rounded, somewhat shallow profile with a simple exterior, often worn with camouflage covers or netting. Internally, it uses a suspension system similar to civilian or sports helmet designs, along with a two point chinstrap for retention. This setup prioritizes comfort and ease of wear over heavy duty protection.

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While the M74 was intended to provide basic protection against fragments and impacts, its fiberglass construction offered limited ballistic resistance compared to steel or later composite helmets. Despite this, it remained in widespread use for decades, particularly among support and rear line units, and continued to appear in service well into the 21st century through refurbishment programs.