M59/85

The M59/M85 is a Yugoslav combat helmet which was produced between 1958–59 and 1985. They were commonly used in the Yugoslav Wars.

M59/85
M59/85 Helmets
Type	Combat helmet
Place of origin	Yugoslavia
Service history
In service	1958–present
Used by	Yugoslav People's Army, Serbian Army, Slovenian Armed Forces, Fedayeen Saddam
Wars	Yugoslav Wars Operation Iraqi Freedom
Specifications
Mass	1.5 kg (3.3 lb)

Specifications

M59

JNA helmet decal, published in the 23 October 1991 Yugoslav People's Army newsletter. It was featured on helmets worn by the Yugoslav forces at the beginning of the Croatian War. It is the only logo of the JNA without a red star.

The helmet's shape was inspired by the Spanish M34 helmet, sharing very similar profiles, with cut down edges. The liner is a copy of the American M1 helmet's webbing system. The webbing is attached to the helmet with rectangular retention washers. The original models had red stars stenciled on them. Repurposed M59 helmets often incorporated Yugoslavian decals/stickers in order to match the current belligerent.

M85

The M85 Is a modernization of the M59 design, trimming down the rear of the helmet's skirt to make it more comfortable to lie prone, and utilizes a slightly modified liner using clips to keep the leather sweatband in place. In 1989, a Kevlar version of the M85 was introduced (designated as M89). The shape of these helmets is identical to the steel M85, though much thicker and with external rivets to mount the lining. They would be issued alongside M59s and M85s until they were able to be mass produced.

External links

• Yugoslavia M59/85 at brendonshelmets.weebly.com