Use of the Soviet M40 Helmet in the DDR

[Rev462]

I don't recall if this has been discussed previously, so I'll put the question out there and see what happens.

Does anyone have information about when the Soviet M40 steel helmet was used and by whom?

I know that the KVP used them starting in 1952, but was there any earlier use of them, either in the days of the "Soviet Zone" or in the early days of the DDR 1949 -1952?

[Johelmet]

I'm afraid I can't bring up anything for before 1952, but after I know of three examples from a really nice collection online, brendonshelmets

http://brendonshelmets.weebly.com/ea...any-ssh40.html

This ssh40 was used by the paramilitary group 'Society for Sports and Technology'

http://brendonshelmets.weebly.com/east-germany-kvp.html

Interestingly a Czech Vz 53, not a Soviet ssh40, used by the KVP. He says the helmet was dated 1956.

http://brendonshelmets.weebly.com/east-germany-kda.html

Another Czech Vz 53 which was used by the Kampfgruppen.

That's all I've got mate, but hope it helps.

[Rev462]

Thanks Jo!

I had forgotten about the use of M40's by the GST.

The Czech helmet being used by the Kampfgruppen was news to me. And I love the photo of the M56 with the same Kampfgruppen decal.

[Johelmet]

I found the use of Czech helmets a surprise. I never really saw the GDR using equipment from it's socialist brothers other than the USSR at such a early period. but hey, if they could use PM63s later on what's to stop them using Czech helmets.

Yea, it's a very nice collection. It sort of shows what else exists out there which we may not know of. Just like you I love the look of the Kampfgruppen decal on the M56, as well as the Sports and Technology decal on the ssh40.

Glad I could help!