Images of the proposed ‘shield’ cockpit protection set to be introduced into Formula 1 in 2018 have been revealed by the sport’s governing body.

Unveiled by the FIA, it has also been confirmed that the radical device will break cover for a public test at next weekend’s British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

The shield design was put forward as an alternative head protection solution to the halo design, which proved unpopular with fans, and comes well ahead of a proposed test at Monza in September.

But with progress advancing quicker than expected on the shield, a short track test has now been scheduled for FP1 at Silverstone to gauge initial driver feedback.

The test will be conducted by Ferrari.

The ‘shield’, which is a see-through screen that extends along the nose in front of the drivers, has been pushed as a more visually appealing design than the Halo.

Several different versions are still being considered, with one idea on shown on a Williams having been released by the FIA.

The clear screen is being developed by Italian company Isoclima, which makes products for a number of other high-profile racing series.

If the ‘shield’ does not get the green light, then the FIA is determined to push on with the introduction of the Halo for 2018.