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ODST armor: Difference between revisions

From Halopedia, the Halo wiki
(Despite claims to the contrary, the ODST armor first appeared in The Fall of Reach. During John's test of the Spartan-AI pairing, the ODSTs are described as wearing fully-covering black armor suits.)
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{{Era|UNSC|HCW}}
{{Era|UNSC|HCW|Post}}
<center>''Were you looking for the [[black body suit]], a vacuum-enabled suit of light armor?''</center>
<center>''Were you looking for the [[black body suit]], a vacuum-enabled suit of light armor?''</center>
[[File:H3 - ODST.png|thumb|right|130px|The ODST battle armor.]]
[[File:H3 - ODST.png|thumb|right|130px|The ODST battle armor.]]
The '''ODST armor''', or '''battle dress uniform''' ('''BDU'''),<ref name="evg53">'''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 53''</ref> is a suit of combat armor worn exclusively by the [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]]s, special operators of the [[UNSC Marine Corps]].
The '''ODST battle dress uniform''' ('''BDU'''),<ref name="evg53">'''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 53''</ref> is a suit of combat armor worn exclusively by the [[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers]], special operators of the [[UNSC Marine Corps]].


==Introduction==
==Introduction==
The ODST body armor is a signature piece of equipment used by the Orbital Drop Shock Troopers. The suit, which is produced by [[Misriah Armory]],<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', ODST helmet in-game model</ref> is [[Vacuum suit|vacuum-rated]] and is capable of [[extra-vehicular activity]] for fifteen minutes.<ref>'''Halo: The Cole Protocol''', ''Chapter 4: page 48, Chapter 5: page 56''</ref> The armor provides numerous advantages in the field, including ballistic protection, temperature control, as well as thermal insulation against extreme temperatures experienced during atmospheric entry and thermal protection from Covenant [[Directed energy weapon|energy weapons]].
The ODST body armor is a signature piece of equipment used by the Orbital Drop Shock Troopers. The suit, which is produced by [[Misriah Armory]],<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', ODST helmet in-game model</ref> is [[Vacuum suit|vacuum-rated]] and is capable of [[extra-vehicular activity]] for fifteen minutes.<ref>'''Halo: The Cole Protocol''', ''Chapter 4: page 48, Chapter 5: page 56''</ref> The armor provides numerous advantages in the field, including ballistic protection, temperature control, as well as thermal insulation against extreme temperatures experienced during atmospheric entry and thermal protection from Covenant [[Directed energy weapon|energy weapons]].


The ODST armor has gone through several design changes since the start of the Human-Covenant War. The current version incorporates technology initially developed for the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor]], most notably the helmet.<ref name="Armory">'''Halo: Reach''': ODST helmet Armory description: ''"Many technologies initially developed for MJOLNIR have gained widespread adoption."''</ref> This also includes ceramic-[[titanium]] composites for armor plating to give the user added protection. It features a [[heads up display]] and communications systems, notably the [[Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance]], to give more situational awareness to the wearer.<ref name="H3">'''[[Halo 3]]'''</ref>
The ODST armor has gone through several design changes since the start of the Human-Covenant War. The current version incorporates technology initially developed for the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor]], most notably the helmet.<ref name="Armory">'''Halo: Reach''': ODST helmet Armory description: ''"Many technologies initially developed for MJOLNIR have gained widespread adoption."''</ref> This also includes ceramic-[[titanium]] composites for armor plating to give the user added protection. It features a [[heads up display]] and communications systems, notably the [[Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance]], to give more situational awareness to the wearer.<ref name="H3">'''Halo 3''', ''Armory''</ref>


The ODST BDU has been in use for well over 50 years and remains unmatched in its ability to protect its wearer over other BDUs during the toughest operations. The BDU excels at providing more protection against small arms fire than other infantry body armor, and also excels at allowing a trooper to conduct Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) without little chance of being detected in dark locations. The BDU's stealth capability is partly thanks to its black and gray camouflage patterns on the legs, boots, gloves, chest, helmet and undersuit - these urban camouflage patterns are optional; without the camouflage panels, the BDU is black. On the left shoulder pad of every ODST is a UNSC MED REF patch.<ref>'''[[We Are ODST]]'''</ref><ref name="H3R">'''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: Landfall]]'''</ref> This patch contains basic medical information about the trooper, and allows a certified medic to gain a quick medical reference to an ODST wounded in the field. Despite the armor's obvious advantage over standard infantry armor, it is still vulnerable to Covenant energy weapons, larger armor piercing rounds, and large explosive devices.
The ODST BDU has been in use since the [[Insurrection]], if not earlier, and remains unmatched in its ability to protect its wearer over other BDUs during the toughest operations. The BDU excels at providing more protection against small arms fire than other infantry body armor, and also excels at allowing a trooper to conduct Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) without little chance of being detected in dark locations. The BDU's stealth capability is partly thanks to its black and gray camouflage patterns on the legs, boots, gloves, chest, helmet and undersuit - these urban camouflage patterns are optional; without the camouflage panels, the BDU is black. On the left shoulder pad of every ODST is a UNSC MED REF patch.<ref>'''[[We Are ODST]]'''</ref><ref name="H3R">'''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: Landfall]]'''</ref> This patch contains basic medical information about the trooper, and allows a certified medic to gain a quick medical reference to an ODST wounded in the field. Despite the armor's obvious advantage over standard infantry armor, it is still vulnerable to Covenant energy weapons, larger armor piercing rounds, and large explosive devices.


==Armor variants==
==Armor variants==
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====Unidentified variant====
====Unidentified variant====
There is another variant of the ODST armor that has not been identified. Such suits were used by ODSTs [[Gretchen]], [[Taylor H. Miles|Dutch]], and [[Kojo Agu|Romeo]] wore during a mission some time prior to the [[Battle of Ariel]]. It differs greatly from the normal ODST armor in that it bears a great resemblance to standard Marine armor. The chestplate that Romeo wore was olive drab in color, and appeared almost identical to those worn by the Marines. However, the armor retains the basic form of the ODST armor, with standard helmet and bodysuit pieces obviously shown. It is possible that this variant is either an earlier version of the armor or a field-expedient modification. This suit bears a noticeable resemblance to the armor worn by ODSTs in ''Halo 2''.
Another variant differs greatly from the normal ODST armor, resembling a hybrid of the ODST armor with the standard Marine BDU. Such suits were used by ODSTs [[Taylor Miles]], [[Kojo Agu]], and [[Gretchen Ketola]] during a mission sometime prior to the [[Battle of Ariel]]. The chestplate that Romeo wore was olive drab in color, and appeared almost identical to those worn by regular Marines. However, the armor retains the basic form of the ODST armor, with the standard helmet and bodysuit pieces.


==Armor components==
==Armor components==
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===Helmet===
===Helmet===
The ODST helmet, which was originally designed for use with MJOLNIR armor,<ref name="Armory"/> is seemingly derived from the standard-issue [[CH252 helmet]]. It is made of titanium and is coated with a heat-resistant material to help disperse heat - the inside is lined with black padding to provide comfort when the user is wearing it. The helmet's faceplate is made of a strong, glass-like material with the ability to polarize. When polarized, the helmet's faceplate has a bluish silver color and obscures the wearer's face completely. However, the ODST helmets worn by the SPARTAN-IIs during their training had a golden-orange polarization,<ref name="Boot Camp">''Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp''</ref> and [[Michaels]] wore a red-polarized helmet during the [[Battle of Ariel]].<ref>'''Halo: Helljumper''', ''[[Halo: Helljumper Issue 2|Issue 2]]''</ref> There is also an up-armored variant of the standard helmet designed for close-quarters combat, designated as the ODST-HS Combat Helmet.<ref name="evg53"/>
The ODST helmet is derived from the standard-issue [[CH252 helmet]]. The modern version of the helmet was adapted for use with MJOLNIR; the technological advancements made, such as CTCs, were incorporated back into the ODST helmet's regular production.<ref name="H3"/><ref name="Armory"/> It is made of titanium and is coated with a heat-resistant material to help disperse heat - the inside is lined with black padding to provide comfort when the user is wearing it. The helmet's faceplate is made of a strong, glass-like material with the ability to polarize. When polarized, the helmet's faceplate has a bluish silver color and obscures the wearer's face completely. However, the ODST helmets worn by the SPARTAN-IIs during their training had a golden-orange polarization,<ref name="Boot Camp">''Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp''</ref> and [[Michaels]] wore a red-polarized helmet during the [[Battle of Ariel]].<ref>'''Halo: Helljumper''', ''[[Halo: Helljumper Issue 2|Issue 2]]''</ref> There is also an up-armored variant of the standard helmet designed for close-quarters combat, designated as the ODST-HS Combat Helmet.<ref name="evg53"/>


The helmet provides excellent protection against small-arms fire and small explosive attacks. The helmet is also essential in providing an ODST the ability to perform EVA and also provides a Heads Up Display, giving the wearer basic information including a targeting reticule, weapon information, ammo capacity, and basic health readout. The newest version of the helmet integrates with the user's standard [[neural interface]] to provide more tactical data to the HUD. Helmet-integrated neural interfaces is another piece of technology that has seen widespread adoption from Project MJOLNIR. Along with this state-of-the-art equipment, the helmet is also equipped with its own thermal imaging and motion sensors.<ref name="encyclopedia">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''Chapter 2: page 57''</ref> There are also several external optical modules that can be attached to the helmet, including the ODST-[[External Command Network Module|CNM]] used by some squad leaders<ref>'''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 26''</ref> or an optical/integration module which enhances smart-linking capabilities and communication systems.<ref name="evg159"/><ref name="oi"/>
The helmet provides excellent protection against small-arms fire and small explosive attacks. The helmet is also essential in providing an ODST the ability to perform EVA and also provides a Heads Up Display, giving the wearer basic information including a targeting reticule, weapon information, ammo capacity, and basic health readout. The newest version of the helmet integrates with the user's standard [[neural interface]] to provide more tactical data to the HUD. Helmet-integrated neural interfaces is another piece of technology that has seen widespread adoption from Project MJOLNIR. Along with this state-of-the-art equipment, the helmet is also equipped with its own thermal imaging and motion sensors.<ref name="encyclopedia">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''Chapter 2: page 57''</ref> There are also several external optical modules that can be attached to the helmet, including the ODST-[[External Command Network Module|CNM]] used by some squad leaders<ref>'''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 26''</ref> or an optical/integration module which enhances smart-linking capabilities and communication systems.<ref name="evg159"/><ref name="oi"/>
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Due to its cross-platform nature, the ODST helmet may also be worn with other armor systems. SPARTAN-IIs wore ODST helmets in conjunction with their [[Black body suit|body suits]] during their training<ref>''Halo 3'', ODST helmet description</ref> and on their [[Assault on Eridanus Secundus|first combat mission]].<ref name="Boot Camp"/>
Due to its cross-platform nature, the ODST helmet may also be worn with other armor systems. SPARTAN-IIs wore ODST helmets in conjunction with their [[Black body suit|body suits]] during their training<ref>''Halo 3'', ODST helmet description</ref> and on their [[Assault on Eridanus Secundus|first combat mission]].<ref name="Boot Camp"/>


In [[2535]], the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/AA variant]], which was developed as an improvement of the ODST helmet, was introduced as the [[UNSC Army]] Airborne's standard-issue helmet.<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', Armory, MJOLNIR AA variant description: ''"The MJOLNIR/AA variant was developed as an improvement of the venerable ODST helmet."''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]'''</ref><ref group="Note">According to ''Halo: Reach''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s Armory, the AA helmet was developed as an improvement of the ODST helmet. According to ''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide'', the former helmet's design was influenced by Ushuaia's extensive work on the Marine Corps BDU, and it is implied that the AA helmet was not modified from the ODST helmet's design. Given the context of these apparently conflicting statements, it is possible that the AA helmet was not derived from the ODST helmet ''per se'', but was instead developed "from scratch", with the ODST helmet serving as inspiration; it was designed to possess similar features and functionality, resulting in a similar overall appearance.</ref>
In [[2535]], the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/AA variant]], which was developed as an improvement of the ODST helmet, was introduced as the [[UNSC Army]] Airborne's standard-issue helmet.<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', Armory, MJOLNIR AA variant description: ''"The MJOLNIR/AA variant was developed as an improvement of the venerable ODST helmet."''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]'''</ref>


===VISR===
====VISR====
{{Main|Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance}}
{{Main|Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance}}
The Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance, or VISR, is issued with the ODST helmet. The VISR proprietary data management suite enables a user to link into [[Unified Earth Government|UEG]], [[Colonial Administration Authority|CAA]], and UNSC infrastructure systems at the local, national, and global levels - however actual access level is administered on a need/rating basis.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/projects/odst/guide.aspx '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo 3: ODST Field Guide'']</ref> This allows the user to store and review mission content up to 610MB combined, the system also provides street level navigational data, and receive secure real-time mission data. In addition, every current issue helmet ODST BIOS A29.817941B.01 or later is equipped with low-light vision enhancement, which outlines hostile units in red, friendlies in green, weapons in blue, and objects of interest in yellow.<ref name="H3R"/>
The Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance, or VISR, is issued with the ODST helmet. The VISR proprietary data management suite enables a user to link into [[Unified Earth Government|UEG]], [[Colonial Administration Authority|CAA]], and UNSC infrastructure systems at the local, national, and global levels - however actual access level is administered on a need/rating basis.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/projects/odst/guide.aspx '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo 3: ODST Field Guide'']</ref> This allows the user to store and review mission content up to 610MB combined, the system also provides street level navigational data, and receive secure real-time mission data. In addition, every current issue helmet ODST BIOS A29.817941B.01 or later is equipped with low-light vision enhancement, which outlines hostile units in red, friendlies in green, weapons in blue, and objects of interest in yellow.<ref name="H3R"/>
===Body suit===
The ODST body suit is comprised of several different layers and materials. The inner layer of the black-gray undersuit is made of Kevlar to aid in protecting the wearer from small arms fire. The inner layer contains a heating and cooling system which regulates temperatures to keep the user warm or cool depending on the weather conditions - the heating and cooling system can also match infrared signatures of the current weather as well to allow an ODST to go undetected in hostile locations.<ref name="encyclopedia"/> The outer layer of the undersuit is coated with a heat-resistant material to aid in reducing temperatures experienced during orbital drop, and against Covenant plasma weapons. The body suit also doubles as a pressure suit to allow an ODST to perform extra-vehicular activity.
===Armor plating===
As with the helmet, the Mark 117<ref>''Halo 3: ODST'' and ''Halo: Reach'' in-game models</ref><ref>''The Life'' and ''Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn'' live-action models</ref> chest plate is comprised of titanium and ceramic materials. It covers the chest from the bottom of the clavicle to the bottom of the rib cage, with another segment protecting the abdomen. Some body suits feature an armored collar that protects the wearer's neck, complementing the chest plate's coverage.<ref>'''Halo: Reach'''</ref> A pair of wide, low-profile shoulder pauldrons are featured, though some ODSTs, such as snipers or CQB specialists, may opt for an alternate model or none at all. The shin and knees are well protected with titanium-ceramic guards, as are the forearms.


===Rucksack===
===Rucksack===
Designated as the M/LBE Hard Case,<ref name="evg53"/> the rucksack issued to ODSTs is, for all intents and purposes, an armored backpack that attaches to the back of the armored vest. The rucksack comes in a number of different variants. The main purpose is storage, which allows a trooper to store equipment, ranging from ammunition, to medical supplies, to explosives, to battery packs which provides power to any equipment an ODST may carry, and communications, which houses the necessary radio and satellite gear that an ODST squad requires to report in to their superiors. For longer missions, ODSTs can carry larger rucksacks with enough supplies for two weeks of operation without external resupply.<ref>'''[[Halo: The Flood]]''', ''page 58''</ref> Rucksacks have integrated magnetic holding devices to allow for external back mounting of additional equipment. Equipment with magnetic properties, such as longer weaponry, can be carried externally over the rucksack eliminating the use of extra straps or slings. Because the rucksack's casing is armored, it gives the ODST wearing it an additional layer of protection from behind.
Designated as the M/LBE Hard Case,<ref name="evg53"/> the rucksack issued to ODSTs is, for all intents and purposes, an armored backpack that attaches to the back of the armored vest. The rucksack comes in a number of different variants. The main purpose is storage, which allows a trooper to store equipment, ranging from ammunition, to medical supplies, to explosives, to battery packs which provides power to any equipment an ODST may carry, and communications, which houses the necessary radio and satellite gear that an ODST squad requires to report in to their superiors. For longer missions, ODSTs can carry larger rucksacks with enough supplies for two weeks of operation without external resupply.<ref>'''[[Halo: The Flood]]''', ''page 58''</ref> Rucksacks have integrated magnetic holding devices to allow for external back mounting of additional equipment. Equipment with magnetic properties, such as longer weaponry, can be carried externally over the rucksack eliminating the use of extra straps or slings. Because the rucksack's casing is armored, it gives the ODST wearing it an additional layer of protection from behind.
===Body suit===
The ODST body suit is comprised of several different layers and materials. The inner layer of the black-gray undersuit is made of Kevlar to aid in protecting the wearer from small arms fire. The inner layer contains a heating and cooling system which regulates temperatures to keep the user warm or cool depending on the weather conditions - the heating and cooling system can also match infrared signatures of the current weather as well to allow an ODST to go undetected in hostile locations.<ref name="encyclopedia"/> The outer layer of the undersuit is coated with a heat-resistant material to aid in reducing temperatures experienced during orbital drop, and against Covenant plasma weapons. The body suit also doubles as a pressure suit to allow an ODST to perform extra-vehicular activity. The outer shell layer is comprised of titanium and ceramic composite armor plating that covers the chest, shoulders, legs and feet. Some body suits feature an armored collar that protects the wearer's neck.<ref>'''Halo: Reach'''</ref>


==''Halo 3'' multiplayer and ''Halo: Reach'' Armory==
==''Halo 3'' multiplayer and ''Halo: Reach'' Armory==
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==List of appearances==
==List of appearances==
*''[[Halo 2]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
**''[[Armor Testing]]''
*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
*''[[Halo: Landfall]]''
**''[[Halo: Combat]]''
**''[[Halo: Last One Standing]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo: Helljumper]]''
*''[[The Life]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]''<ref group="Note">Though the novel makes no mention of the ODST armor, ''Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp'' reveals that Blue Team wore ODST helmets with their body suits. Thus, the armor appears in the novel by means of a retcon.</ref>
*''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''
*''[[Halo: Glasslands]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
**''[[Dirt]]''
**''[[Dirt]]''
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
**''[[Armor Testing]]''
*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
*''[[Halo: Helljumper]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp|Boot Camp]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[The Babysitter]]''
**''[[The Babysitter]]''
*''[[Halo: Landfall]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Combat]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp]]''
**''[[Halo: Last One Standing]]''
*''[[Halo: Glasslands]]''
*''[[The Life]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
*''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]''


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
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File:ODST_binoc.jpg|The HUD magnification system of the ODST helmet.
File:ODST_binoc.jpg|The HUD magnification system of the ODST helmet.
</gallery>
</gallery>
==Notes==
<references group="Note"/>


== Sources ==
== Sources ==

Revision as of 00:02, October 13, 2012

Were you looking for the black body suit, a vacuum-enabled suit of light armor?
The ODST battle armor.

The ODST battle dress uniform (BDU),[1] is a suit of combat armor worn exclusively by the Orbital Drop Shock Troopers, special operators of the UNSC Marine Corps.

Introduction

The ODST body armor is a signature piece of equipment used by the Orbital Drop Shock Troopers. The suit, which is produced by Misriah Armory,[2] is vacuum-rated and is capable of extra-vehicular activity for fifteen minutes.[3] The armor provides numerous advantages in the field, including ballistic protection, temperature control, as well as thermal insulation against extreme temperatures experienced during atmospheric entry and thermal protection from Covenant energy weapons.

The ODST armor has gone through several design changes since the start of the Human-Covenant War. The current version incorporates technology initially developed for the MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor, most notably the helmet.[4] This also includes ceramic-titanium composites for armor plating to give the user added protection. It features a heads up display and communications systems, notably the Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance, to give more situational awareness to the wearer.[5]

The ODST BDU has been in use since the Insurrection, if not earlier, and remains unmatched in its ability to protect its wearer over other BDUs during the toughest operations. The BDU excels at providing more protection against small arms fire than other infantry body armor, and also excels at allowing a trooper to conduct Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) without little chance of being detected in dark locations. The BDU's stealth capability is partly thanks to its black and gray camouflage patterns on the legs, boots, gloves, chest, helmet and undersuit - these urban camouflage patterns are optional; without the camouflage panels, the BDU is black. On the left shoulder pad of every ODST is a UNSC MED REF patch.[6][7][8] This patch contains basic medical information about the trooper, and allows a certified medic to gain a quick medical reference to an ODST wounded in the field. Despite the armor's obvious advantage over standard infantry armor, it is still vulnerable to Covenant energy weapons, larger armor piercing rounds, and large explosive devices.

Armor variants

While the standard ODST BDU is fully capable for any role, there are specialized variants of the BDU - these suits are specifically issued to a specialist of a certain field to provide them certain advantages during an operation. As such, specialized gear is only available by Mission Conditional Requisition (MCR). Depending on mission requirements, an ODST operative may request either additional, or variant equipment that ranges from helmet attachments, gloves, battery, equipment or communication rucksack. The following is the specialized battle dress uniforms currently in use by the Navy.

File:Close Quarters Combat Trooper.jpg

ODST/UA Personal Protective Equipment

An up-armored variant of the ODST BDU, the ODST/UA PPE[9] is issued to personnel whose specialization requires extra armor, such as demolition experts. This version of the battle armor is specifically designed to aid an ODST in CQB-type combat conditions. The standard left pauldron is replaced with a longer two-piece ballistic plate, which aids in protecting the trooper's upper body while in a firing stance, and also to reduce severe injury from plasma-based weaponry. The helmet is also issued with an optics device that aids the user in relaying images and video to teammates or command.

File:ODST Sniper.jpg

Sharpshooter

The sharpshooter BDU is issued to sniper experts in the field. This BDU is designed to give an ODST sharpshooter more freedom in combat - the standard right pauldron is removed, allowing the sniper to aim better and move his arm more freely with a sniper rifle, while the standard left pauldron is replaced with a larger plate to protect the sniper's arm from counter attacks. The sharpshooter variant is also issued with an O/I[10] (ocular/integration)[11] optics device attached to the helmet, while the Oracle scope on the SRS99 can be smart-linked to the user's HUD.

File:Recon Trooper.jpg

ONI/S-1 Recon BDU

The S-1 reconnaissance PPE/BDU is a specialized Office of Naval Intelligence variant of the ODST armor.[12] The armor is only issued to ONI reconnaissance agents for high risk operations. The undersuit of the armor, which is superficially similar to the standard ODST armor, is designated as the S1/ONI field fatigues.[12] However, the chest plate is replaced with a specialized one, to provide stealth capabilities with little or no loss of endurance, specifically by reducing its IR signature and reflective surfaces. The torso part of the armor also varies from the standard version, having a green, translucent orb in the center. There are no shoulder pauldrons issued with this variant, which allows more freedom of arm movement.

Unidentified variant

Another variant differs greatly from the normal ODST armor, resembling a hybrid of the ODST armor with the standard Marine BDU. Such suits were used by ODSTs Taylor Miles, Kojo Agu, and Gretchen Ketola during a mission sometime prior to the Battle of Ariel. The chestplate that Romeo wore was olive drab in color, and appeared almost identical to those worn by regular Marines. However, the armor retains the basic form of the ODST armor, with the standard helmet and bodysuit pieces.

Armor components

The ODST battle dress uniform is comprised of several different components and layers that make the suit what it is, while technology from other projects across the military have been incorporated into the suit, ODST equipment still has proprietary technology that has not been adopted into other equipment for the military.

Helmet

The ODST helmet is derived from the standard-issue CH252 helmet. The modern version of the helmet was adapted for use with MJOLNIR; the technological advancements made, such as CTCs, were incorporated back into the ODST helmet's regular production.[5][4] It is made of titanium and is coated with a heat-resistant material to help disperse heat - the inside is lined with black padding to provide comfort when the user is wearing it. The helmet's faceplate is made of a strong, glass-like material with the ability to polarize. When polarized, the helmet's faceplate has a bluish silver color and obscures the wearer's face completely. However, the ODST helmets worn by the SPARTAN-IIs during their training had a golden-orange polarization,[13] and Michaels wore a red-polarized helmet during the Battle of Ariel.[14] There is also an up-armored variant of the standard helmet designed for close-quarters combat, designated as the ODST-HS Combat Helmet.[1]

The helmet provides excellent protection against small-arms fire and small explosive attacks. The helmet is also essential in providing an ODST the ability to perform EVA and also provides a Heads Up Display, giving the wearer basic information including a targeting reticule, weapon information, ammo capacity, and basic health readout. The newest version of the helmet integrates with the user's standard neural interface to provide more tactical data to the HUD. Helmet-integrated neural interfaces is another piece of technology that has seen widespread adoption from Project MJOLNIR. Along with this state-of-the-art equipment, the helmet is also equipped with its own thermal imaging and motion sensors.[15] There are also several external optical modules that can be attached to the helmet, including the ODST-CNM used by some squad leaders[16] or an optical/integration module which enhances smart-linking capabilities and communication systems.[10][11]

Due to its cross-platform nature, the ODST helmet may also be worn with other armor systems. SPARTAN-IIs wore ODST helmets in conjunction with their body suits during their training[17] and on their first combat mission.[13]

In 2535, the MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/AA variant, which was developed as an improvement of the ODST helmet, was introduced as the UNSC Army Airborne's standard-issue helmet.[18][19]

VISR

Main article: Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance

The Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance, or VISR, is issued with the ODST helmet. The VISR proprietary data management suite enables a user to link into UEG, CAA, and UNSC infrastructure systems at the local, national, and global levels - however actual access level is administered on a need/rating basis.[20] This allows the user to store and review mission content up to 610MB combined, the system also provides street level navigational data, and receive secure real-time mission data. In addition, every current issue helmet ODST BIOS A29.817941B.01 or later is equipped with low-light vision enhancement, which outlines hostile units in red, friendlies in green, weapons in blue, and objects of interest in yellow.[7]

Body suit

The ODST body suit is comprised of several different layers and materials. The inner layer of the black-gray undersuit is made of Kevlar to aid in protecting the wearer from small arms fire. The inner layer contains a heating and cooling system which regulates temperatures to keep the user warm or cool depending on the weather conditions - the heating and cooling system can also match infrared signatures of the current weather as well to allow an ODST to go undetected in hostile locations.[15] The outer layer of the undersuit is coated with a heat-resistant material to aid in reducing temperatures experienced during orbital drop, and against Covenant plasma weapons. The body suit also doubles as a pressure suit to allow an ODST to perform extra-vehicular activity.

Armor plating

As with the helmet, the Mark 117[21][22] chest plate is comprised of titanium and ceramic materials. It covers the chest from the bottom of the clavicle to the bottom of the rib cage, with another segment protecting the abdomen. Some body suits feature an armored collar that protects the wearer's neck, complementing the chest plate's coverage.[23] A pair of wide, low-profile shoulder pauldrons are featured, though some ODSTs, such as snipers or CQB specialists, may opt for an alternate model or none at all. The shin and knees are well protected with titanium-ceramic guards, as are the forearms.

Rucksack

Designated as the M/LBE Hard Case,[1] the rucksack issued to ODSTs is, for all intents and purposes, an armored backpack that attaches to the back of the armored vest. The rucksack comes in a number of different variants. The main purpose is storage, which allows a trooper to store equipment, ranging from ammunition, to medical supplies, to explosives, to battery packs which provides power to any equipment an ODST may carry, and communications, which houses the necessary radio and satellite gear that an ODST squad requires to report in to their superiors. For longer missions, ODSTs can carry larger rucksacks with enough supplies for two weeks of operation without external resupply.[24] Rucksacks have integrated magnetic holding devices to allow for external back mounting of additional equipment. Equipment with magnetic properties, such as longer weaponry, can be carried externally over the rucksack eliminating the use of extra straps or slings. Because the rucksack's casing is armored, it gives the ODST wearing it an additional layer of protection from behind.

Halo 3 multiplayer and Halo: Reach Armory

The MJOLNIR Mark VI with the ODST helmet in Halo 3.

Halo 3

The ODST battle helmet is available as an armor permutation in Halo 3 multiplayer. The SPARTAN version of the helmet differs from the standard version in the polarization color of its visor; regular ODST helmets have bluish-silver polarization, while the MJOLNIR ODST helmet retains the gold electroplating possessed by most MJOLNIR armor. It is unlocked by earning the Spartan Graduate achievement, or by earning 5 XP in Matchmaking.[5]

Halo: Reach

In Halo: Reach, two uprades are availible for the helmet. The first, (UA/CNM), adds an up-armor plate with a Command Network Module on the left side, and the second, (CBRN/HUL), adds a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Module with a Hardened Uplink Module on the right side. The shoulder pauldrons, breastplate, and helmet of the ODST armor are also available for purchase in the Armory. Unlike in Halo 3, the ODST armor can be used in all game modes.

Trivia

  • The ODST armor is derived from the first concept of the MJOLNIR armor. This original concept by artist Shi Kai Wang was scrapped because it made the Master Chief look "too mean."[25]
  • The visor's ability to polarize, the VISR mode, and the HUD it displays may mean that the helmet has a transparent Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) coated screen.
  • The Good Samaritan achievement unlocks the ODST armor for the player's Xbox Live avatar if the user has Halo Waypoint. The helmet cannot be removed, rendering any avatars wearing it completely anonymous.
  • The armor worn by the squad in Halo 3: ODST have the exact same scratches and burns, due to the reuse of the same basic in-game model for each character.
  • On the cover of Ultimate Comics: The Ultimates Volume 1 #4, General Nick Fury and several S.H.I.E.L.D. agents are seen wearing armor that is very clearly inspired by that of the Orbital Drop Shock Troopers.

List of appearances

Gallery

  • ODST - Helmet Concept.png

    Concept art of the ODST helmet.

  • Various concepts of different ODST armor variants.

    Various concepts of different ODST armor variants.

  • More armor variant concepts.

    More armor variant concepts.

  • T. Rymann and S. Hartley in their battle armor during the Battle of Sector Six.

    T. Rymann and S. Hartley in their battle armor during the Battle of Sector Six.

  • Private S. Hartley during the Battle of Sector Six.

    Private S. Hartley during the Battle of Sector Six.

  • Char odst.jpg

    The ODST BDU in Halo 2.

  • A squad of ODSTs aboard a Pelican.

    A squad of ODSTs aboard a Pelican.

  • A study of the ODST armor in Halo 3.

    A study of the ODST armor in Halo 3.

  • ODSTs seen wearing their armor on Installation 00.

    ODSTs seen wearing their armor on Installation 00.

  • The Rookie's armor.

    The Rookie's armor.

  • The armor permutations worn by Buck's squad.

    The armor permutations worn by Buck's squad.

  • An Xbox LIVE avatar award unlocked via Waypoint and an achievement.

    An Xbox LIVE avatar award unlocked via Waypoint and an achievement.

  • The ODST helmet with the UA/CNM attachment as seen in Halo: Reach.

    The ODST helmet with the UA/CNM attachment as seen in Halo: Reach.

  • An ODST helmet on a suit of MJOLNIR armor in Halo Reach.

    An ODST helmet on a suit of MJOLNIR armor in Halo Reach.

  • A member of the Bullfrogs in full combat dress.

    A member of the Bullfrogs in full combat dress.

  • An ODST standing at ease in Halo: Reach.

    An ODST standing at ease in Halo: Reach.

  • An ODST saluting in Halo: Reach.

    An ODST saluting in Halo: Reach.

  • An ODST aiming an MA37 ICWS Assault Rifle in Halo: Reach.

    An ODST aiming an MA37 ICWS Assault Rifle in Halo: Reach.

  • ODST armor in Halo: Reach.

    ODST armor in Halo: Reach.

  • The VISR system integrated to the ODST helmet.

    The VISR system integrated to the ODST helmet.

  • The HUD magnification system of the ODST helmet.

    The HUD magnification system of the ODST helmet.

Sources

  1. ^ a b c Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 53
  2. ^ Halo: Reach, ODST helmet in-game model
  3. ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, Chapter 4: page 48, Chapter 5: page 56
  4. ^ a b Halo: Reach: ODST helmet Armory description: "Many technologies initially developed for MJOLNIR have gained widespread adoption."
  5. ^ a b c Halo 3, Armory
  6. ^ We Are ODST
  7. ^ a b Halo 3: ODST
  8. ^ Halo: Landfall
  9. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 123
  10. ^ a b Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 159
  11. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2011), page 56
  12. ^ a b Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 45
  13. ^ a b Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp
  14. ^ Halo: Helljumper, Issue 2
  15. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia, Chapter 2: page 57
  16. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 26
  17. ^ Halo 3, ODST helmet description
  18. ^ Halo: Reach, Armory, MJOLNIR AA variant description: "The MJOLNIR/AA variant was developed as an improvement of the venerable ODST helmet."
  19. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide
  20. ^ Bungie.net: Halo 3: ODST Field Guide
  21. ^ Halo 3: ODST and Halo: Reach in-game models
  22. ^ The Life and Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn live-action models
  23. ^ Halo: Reach
  24. ^ Halo: The Flood, page 58
  25. ^ The Art of Halo 3

v • d • e
 
List of armor by faction

v • d • e
 
Human
Standard-issue
Powered exoskeleton
Configurations and accessories
v • d • e
 
Covenant
Other equipment
v • d • e
 
Forerunner

Template:MJOLNIR Variations

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