Motor racing’s governing body has been working on plans for the Halo alternative for several months now, and it was originally hoped that a proper test could take place at Monza in September.
However, progress on the cockpit protection system has advanced faster than anticipated, and a short track test has now been scheduled for FP1 at Silverstone to get some initial driver feedback. The test will be conducted by Ferrari.
The Shield, which is a see-through screen that extends up 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 looked at, with one idea 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.
Teams have been told that there will be a form of cockpit head protection next year, so if the Shield is not ready then the Halo will be brought in.