Z-90 hardlight shield

The armor-mounted Z-90 PCE/A hardlight shield generator

The Z-90 Photonic Coalescence Emitter/Aegis,^[1] more commonly known as the Hardlight Shield,^[1] is a Forerunner anti-personnel shielding system. Like other examples of hard light technology, it works by using a photon emitter to fuse light particles into a dissipative barrier.^[1]

Hardlight shields are frequently employed by the ground forces of the mechanical Prometheans, with Watchers providing different types of shield for Knight and Crawlers in combat. This technology has been adapted for use with the MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor, allowing Spartans to use the shield to protect themselves from incoming fire. While using the Hardlight Shield, a Spartan is unable to use weapons, and the MJOLNIR's energy shields are prevented from recharging until the Hardlight Shield dissipates.

Trivia

The designation "Aegis" is likely a reference to the Aegis, a shield carried by several divine figures in Greek mythology.
The concept of the hardlight shield is rather similar to the Jackal's point defense gauntlet. As with many Covenant weapons and equipment, it can be assumed that the gauntlet was reverse-engineered from a Hardlight Shield, or similar device.

Gallery

HUD Icon of the Hardlight Shield.
Concept art of the Hardlight Shield.
View of the Hardlight Shield module.
The Hardlight Shield activated viewed from the front.
A Hardlight Shield changing to a red color, indicating damage or energy drain from constant use.
A SPARTAN-IV deploying a hardlight shield during gameplay.
The front of a deployed hardlight shield in Halo 4 gameplay.
A Watcher placing a hardlight shield in front of a Promethean Knight.
Master Chief projecting a hardlight shield in front of himself while battling a Promethean Knight.
A Promethean Watcher defends a Knight with a Hardlight Shield against an attacking Spartan.