In the joint operations that immediately followed the Ark Conflict, the interaction between Spartan III operatives and Sangheili forces were strained, at best. Though the political, social, and cultural barriers were significant, some of the blame fell on the MJOLNIR armor. The Sangheili found the human elements of the armor design to be distasteful, and UNSC personnel suspected that the reputation forged by the Spartan IIs was intimidating the former Covenant. In short, the psychological edge the Spartans had cultivated was now working against them.

In late 2553, this was addressed with cosmetic changes to existing armor designs. Aesthetics from both Covenant and Forerunner armor were implemented, and anecdotal evidence indicates that this has found favor with the Sangheili.

In mid-2554, the new armor was restricted to joint operations with the Swords of Sanghelios. Deployments with UNSC troops led to statistically significant increases in friendly fire incidents.