Code: O26135
By N & Z Aviation Ltd. This unusual mask appears to be part of the Nuclear Biological Chemical (NBC) AR-5 respirator system used by the RAF during the 1st Gulf War and in service between the early 1980s and later 1990s. The AR-5 was comprised of a standard P or Q oxygen mask set within a rigid exoskeleton incorporating a clear polycarbonate eyepiece/visor, ports for two oxygen tubes and a drinking tube. This was attached to a rubber hood and worn beneath a flying helmet. This example is just the facepiece, has one oxygen tube fitted, the other ports being capped. The mask is wired with a plastic Amplivox 13100 microphone/loom and multi-pin Socapex connector. It has a horseshoe clamp system with the later rollerchain fittings used to prevent twisting. It is unclear if this has been removed from a hood or never attached/used separately. Overall condition is excellent bar loss of the outer rubber sheathing on the microphone loom. The AR-5 also saw service with the US Navy and US Marine Corps. Negretti & Zambra Aviation Ltd. (N & Z Aviation Ltd.), established in 1850, was a London based company that produced scientific and optical instruments until being taken over by the avionics company Meggitt in 1985. Stock code O26135.