Few noticed it, but the U.S. Army Special Forces and Rangers are wearing a new type of helmet. The new helmet is called the MICH (Modular Integrated Communications Helmet), because it contains space for radio equipment. But MICH also provides better protection from bullets and fragments, as well as crash protection for people riding in vehicles or on motorcycles. The MICH does look different, as it does now come down the neck as far as the standard US hemlet. This provides less protection, but greater freedom of movement. This is especially true when the wearer is prone. When wearing night vision equipment, this greater mobility is critical. The MICH was introduced in late 1999 and cost about $600 each. The MICH is used by commandos in other services, and other countries as well. The MICH is also seen as the prototype of the next generation army helmet.