| The nuclear age ushered in the need for
pilots to have eye protection strong enough to shield the eyes from a nuclear flash, while
at the same time giving him clear vision up until the point of impact. The SAC uses a standard HGU-55/P flight helmet. They then attach a
HGU-26/P visor assembly (PRU-36/P) and on it goes a little piece called the "W"
bracket, shown below. The "W" bracket is what charges the EEU-2/P goggles with
electricity. A wire runs from the "W" bracket under the visor cover, into the
helmet and out the communications hole. HGU-55/P with PRU-36/P dual visor assembly,
"W" bracket, MBU-12/P with special ground/power cord. |
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| The helmet is flown just like a regular
flight helmet when the goggles are not in use. The housing has both dark and clear visors.
The oxygen mask completes the set. Although being a standard MBU-12/P, the mask also has
the electric/ground plug for the nuclear goggles. The EEU-2/P nuclear flash goggles (shown
dark here), when electrified from the aircraft system, the lenses are clear, allowing the
pilot to see unrestricted. In less than a nanosecond or pretty darn fast, the goggle
lenses change to the darkness of welder's mask. Shielding the wearer from the dangerous
nuclear flash. |
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