Why are these Ranger helmets cut away around the ears?

SPC Erich Guenther — Sat, 05 Sep 2020 03:58:21 -0400

I am curious in the attached video of RANGER water jump why the Army helmets are cut away around the ears. I have never seen that before and am just curious on the why of it?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbcrCpAdamc

U.S. ARMY RANGER WATER JUMP

A group of U.S. Army Rangers, assigned to the 5th Ranger Training Battalion, conducts an Airborne Jump out of a UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopters, assigned to Char...

Response by CSM Michael Chavaree made Sep 5 at 2020 4:07 AM

CSM Michael Chavaree — Sat, 05 Sep 2020 04:07:23 -0400

Those are ballistic “high cut” helmets that are lighter with similar protective qualities. They allow for a more integrated communications systems where the older helmets did not.

Response by 1SG J Fetter made Sep 5 at 2020 7:07 AM

1SG J Fetter — Sat, 05 Sep 2020 07:07:32 -0400

To improve situational awareness on the battle field as well as accommodate the newest hearing protection and head-mounted communications devices.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 5 at 2020 12:44 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 05 Sep 2020 12:44:17 -0400

Headphones can mount to the rail system, allowing for them to be taken off when not used yet still readily available.
And they look better.....

Response by SSG Harry Outcalt made Sep 5 at 2020 8:19 PM

SSG Harry Outcalt — Sat, 05 Sep 2020 20:19:23 -0400

Rangers can't lead the Way if they can't hear..

Response by SSG Harry Outcalt made Sep 5 at 2020 8:25 PM

SSG Harry Outcalt — Sat, 05 Sep 2020 20:25:08 -0400

light special operations tactical helmet, used by our Green Berets as standard issue, before before Black Hawk Down...

Response by 1LT W. Ashford made Sep 5 at 2020 11:30 PM

1LT W. Ashford — Sat, 05 Sep 2020 23:30:48 -0400

Now for a old head story...we used to used an old CVC helmet for the RTOs and a PRC 77 in your ruck. You’d put a hand mike on the second hookup for the CO. The Army just made the better version of our contraption...now better Sqd commo and it’s integrated thru out the forces for better coordination.