Navy
Imperial Navy Trooper Helmet
The Imperial Navy Trooper Helmet was created for Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope in 1976 and manufactured by Andrew Ainsworth at Shepperton Design Studios. Worn by Imperial Navy personnel aboard the Death Star and other Imperial installations, the helmet formed part of the standard uniform for crew members responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Empire's vast military fleet.
Manufactured using vacuum forming techniques from high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), each helmet was hand trimmed, assembled and finished using the original production methods. As with all costume components produced during the original film, the handmade manufacturing process resulted in subtle variations between individual examples, reflecting the practical methods used during production.
Recognisable by its low-profile shape, flared neck guard and integrated communications-style detailing, the Imperial Navy Trooper Helmet has become one of the defining helmets of the Imperial military. While less prominent than the Stormtrooper and TIE Fighter helmets, it remains an important part of the original costume collection manufactured by Andrew Ainsworth at Shepperton Design Studios and contributes to the distinctive visual identity of the Galactic Empire.
SAMURAI
“IN SPACE...”
John Mollo phoned to ask for “two new black helmets and three white ones” and that was all the information received - although Mollo did suggest that a “Samurai” influence might be appropriate. Andrew created a futuristic military helmet that included forehead armour and a long cowl for rear protection, not dissimilar to the Samurai warriors from Japan. These characters became the back up crew on the Death Star.
FOREHEAD
“HIDDEN SECRET WEAPON...”
Planted on top of the under dome is a forehead piece of armour for extra protection. This is perforated with large holes that bring attention to the shape and suggest a complicated feature that may disguise a hidden source of counter defence. As the character did not have a specific role when Andrew designed it, he called it ‘’the cheese grater” because the forehead holes were reminiscent of Swiss Cheese, but when appeared in the film the character became known as the Imperial Navy helmet.
COWL
“WATCH YOUR BACK...”
From the top of the dome and backwards, Andrew created a rear swoop from ‘pinseal’ ABS, which again displayed large holes to match the forehead. The structural, strong swoop supported a large cowl which acted as protective armour for the back side and simulated the look of a Samurai warrior of the past.
EAR PIECE
“YES SIR - RIGHT AWAY SIR...”
Communication earpieces completed the design by widening the cross section of the helmet and they contributed to a more powerful defensive appearance. Andrew made 24 of these character for ANH, some of which had different designs of earpieces.