[1] In 1992, the conflict in the former Yugoslavia placed large numbers of French troops in contact with well-trained and well-equipped forces,[1] especially snipers during the Siege of Sarajevo, where heavier protection than the Modèle 1978 helmet proved necessary.

[2][3] The Army requested an emergency study for the new helmet, and tests were made, which selected the Dyneema fiber.

They gradually equipped all French troops, with priority given to units on missions in foreign territories.

It is a fragmentation-resistant helmet with a maximum distortion (loss of shape) of 20 mm (0.79 in) from a 9mm full metal jacket bullet (FMJ) of 8 g (124 gr) travelling 430 m/s (1,400 ft/s) on impact.

The new infantry combat equipment of the French army, the Félin system, is partly based on development of the SPECTRA helmet.