Phantom Lights

Archive for the ‘Advertiser’ Category

Gentex PURSUIT Helmet System Selected as US Navy Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet

Thursday, January 22nd, 2026

CARBONDALE, PA, January 21, 2026 – Gentex Corporationannounced today that its PURSUIT Helmet System has been selected by the US Naval Aircrew Systems program office (PMA-202) as the Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet(NGFWH).

The Navy NGFWH awarded contract is a 5-year Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract to deliver over 5,000 NGFWH systems and associated spares to support the fielding of the next generation helmet across all Navy fixed wing aircraft, including E-2D, F/A-18, E/A-18G, T-45, T-6, and the in-development Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS),and is anticipated to total approximately $22M during the period of performance, representing one of the most significant modernization efforts for US Navy aircrew flight equipment in recent years. Awarded under PMA-202’s Helmet Mask Regulator (HMR) program and covering both Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) and Full-Rate Production (FRP), the selection underscores Gentex’s proven commitment to delivering next generation protective technologies that evolvewith the modern warfighter’s needs. It also further solidifies Gentex’s position as the global leader in advanced personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, aircrew, emergency responders, and industrial personnel.

“This contract award from the US Navy is a significant milestone for Gentex and demonstrates our unwaveringcommitment to advancing the world’s most innovative protection solutions for warfighters,” said Robert McCay, Vice President of Aircrew Systems at Gentex Corporation. “The PURSUIT system delivers meaningful advancements in aircrew safety, comfort, and mission performance, ensuring NavalAviators and Naval Flight Officers are equipped withtechnology that keeps pace with the rapidly evolving demands of modern aviation. We are honored to continue our trusted partnership with the US Navy and look forward to providing the US military and international allies with the PURSUIT Helmet System for decades to come.”

The Navy’s decision reflects the PURSUIT Helmet System’ssuperior performance, enhanced safety features, and modern, future-proof architecture, purpose-built to support emerging mission requirements. PURSUIT directly addresses long-standing aircrew concerns identified across the services, including neck strain from poorly balanced helmets due tosuboptimal HMD/NVG integration and heightened ejection seat injury risk. The helmet’s modular, lightweight design with an optimized center of gravity and Gentex’s collaboration with various HMD OEMs allow the delivery of advanced technology solutions that provide aircrew with an immediate, tactically relevant helmet solution that ensures 600 KEAS protection.Building on 70+ years of military partnerships, Gentex delivers a mature helmet solution that enhances warfighter capability across multiple platforms.

The PURSUIT Helmet System was developed through extensive collaboration with US Navy and US Air Force stakeholders, HMD OEMs, and international partners. Its architecture directly supports the performance attributes emphasized in the USAF’s NGFWH initiative, including improved weight distribution, enhanced HMD integration, and reduced aircrew physiological burden.

This award also signals broader readiness for adoption across US and allied military aviation communities that often look to Navy procurement decisions as a benchmark for modernization, reinforcing Gentex’s leadership role in shaping the future of aircrew protection.

About the PURSUIT Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet System

A modern helmet for the modern fighter, PURSUIT is designed to support advances in aircraft helmet-mounted display systems.Its lightweight carbon shell reduces neck and spine strain, lowering the risk of short and long-term injuries from extended missions and high-G maneuvers. The helmet’s optimized balance and center of gravity provide aircrew with a secure,stable fit during dynamic maneuvering in all HMD/NVG configurations.

The PURSUIT helmet is also engineered for the future. Fully compliant with USN and USAF performance standards, it incorporates a Modular Open System Approach (MOSA),enabling seamless integration of current and future HMDs, advanced communications systems, and optical and respiratory protection. The result is a highly adaptable, mission-ready platform built to meet evolving warfighter needs for decades to come.

About Gentex Corporation

With a history of innovation that spans 130 years, Gentex Corporation is the leading supplier of high-performance flight equipment for military, law enforcement, aircrew and aircraft maintainers worldwide. The company’s comprehensive line of durable and innovative helmet systems for fixed wing, rotary wing, and cross-platform applications allows for the easy integration of advanced capability upgrades without sacrificing protection. An equally comprehensive line of hearing protection and communication solutions provide these users with superior hearing protection and precise, intelligible communications in the most extreme noise environments.

Click here for more information on the Gentex PURSUIT Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet System.

NAVAIR Public Release SPR-2025-0058. Distribution Statement A – “Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited”

Safran Federal Systems Demonstrates Blacknaute Inertial Navigation System on US Army Black Hawk Following AUSA Debut

Thursday, January 22nd, 2026

ROCHESTER, NY – January 21, 2025

Safran Federal Systems, a trusted U.S. Department of Defense mission partner and leader in Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (A-PNT), announced the successful flight demonstration of its Blacknaute™ Inertial Navigation System (INS) aboard a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.

Purpose-built for multi-domain operations, Blacknaute™ delivers precise navigation in GPS-denied and electronic warfare-contested environments, fulfilling a critical need for resilient, open-architecture PNT capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains.

The live flight test confirmed Blacknaute’s ability to maintain high-accuracy inertial performance without GNSS support, validating operational readiness just days after its U.S. debut at the 2025 Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting & Exposition in Washington, D.C.

“Our demonstration onboard the Army Black Hawk showcases the tactical readiness of Blacknaute™,”said Jon Leombrone, Executive Vice President of Navigation Systems at Safran Federal Systems. “The system maintained drift of less than 0.4 nautical miles per hour over several hours—proof of its SWaP-optimized, NAVWAR-resilient design engineered for rapid deployment across the Joint Force.”

Blacknaute™ combines multiple cutting-edge technologies in a rugged, lightweight system weighing less than 16 pounds. Key features include:

HRG Dual Core™ Technology: Safran’s patented hemispherical resonator gyro platform, fielded in more than 40,000 units and proven over 30 million operational hours across defense and aerospace applications.

M-Code Ready GNSS Receiver: Supports secure, multi-constellation satellite navigation using military-grade M-Code signals.

Ultra-Stable Atomic Clock: Provides highly precise timing with drift of less than one second every 30,000 years, ensuring reliable synchronization across mission systems.

Interference Detection and Mitigation (IDM): Built-in capabilities for detecting and mitigating GPS spoofing and jamming threats, enhancing survivability in electronic warfare environments.

Open Systems Architecture: Fully compliant with MIL-STD interfaces and TSO-C220 standards, enabling plug-and-play integration with modular open systems used across modern defense platforms.

Safran Federal Systems provides advanced, classified navigation and PNT solutions to Safran Defense & Space, Inc. (Safran DSI), accelerating innovation across multi-domain operations in support of U.S. defense programs.

For more information, visit us at BlackNaute | Air Navigation | Safran Federal Systems.

Streamlight Launches the PolyTac 1X at SHOT Show 2026

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026

Handheld Flashlight Offers Professional Tactical Performance, Polymer Durability and Multi-Fuel Flexibility

EAGLEVILLE, PA, January 21, 2026 – Streamlight®, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, announced the launch of the PolyTac® 1X, a compact, multi-fuel tactical flashlight engineered for professional performance across multiple environments. The new PolyTac 1X will debut at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas, where attendees can see it in person at Streamlight’s Booth #11468.

The PolyTac 1X has a rugged polymer body, designed with a rocky stipple grip texture for secure handling, delivering dependable illumination in conditions where metal lights are less desirable. Ideal for law enforcement, military, industrial professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyday carry (EDC) users alike, the light is powered by a Streamlight SL-B9® USB-rechargeable battery pack, a CR123A lithium battery, or an AA alkaline or lithium battery. Power, distance and run time vary based on battery type:

SL-B9 USB Battery Pack

  •        Output: 500 lumens on High; 40 lumens on Low
  •        Run Time: 1 hour on High; 8 hours on Low
  •        Distance: 268 meters on High; 63 meters on Low
  •        Intensity: 18,000 candela on High; 1,000 candela on Low
  •        Strobe Run Time: 1.75 hours

CR123A Lithium Battery

  •        Output: 350 lumens on High; 40 lumens on Low
  •        Run Time: 1.5 hours on High; 14 hours on Low
  •        Distance: 219 meters on High; 63 meters on Low
  •        Intensity: 12,000 candela on High; 1,000 candela on Low
  •        Strobe Run Time: 2.25 hours

 

AA Battery

  •        Output: 150 lumens on High; 40 lumens on Low
  •        Run Time: 5 hours on High; 14 hours on Low
  •        Distance: 141 meters on High; 63 meters on Low
  •        Intensity: 5,000 candela on High; 1,000 candela on Low
  •        Strobe Run Time: 7 hours

“The PolyTac 1X was driven by military demand for a compact, dependable light that offers flexibility without unnecessary complexity,” said Michael F. Dineen, Streamlight President. “By combining polymer durability, multi-fuel power options, and professional-grade performance, the PolyTac 1X delivers mission-ready reliability without compromise.”

The PolyTac 1X features a high-power white LED housed behind a BOROFLOAT® impact-resistant glass lens. A TEN-TAP® programmable tactical tail switch allows users to select from High/Strobe/Low, High-Only, or Low/High programs. A removable two-way pocket clipsupports multiple carry options.

Built for tough environments, the PolyTac 1X is IPX7-rated, waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes, impact resistant to 3 meters, and Trade Agreement Act (TAA) compliant, making it well-suited for military and professional use.

The PolyTac 1X measures 4.71 inches in length, with a 1.00-inch body diameter, 1.22-inch head diameter and 1.35 major diameter. It weighs between 2.93 and 3.20 ounces, depending on battery type. Available in Black or Yellow, the PolyTac 1X and PolyTac 1X USB have MSRPs of $80.00 and $89.00, respectively, and are backed by Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty. For more information, visit www.streamlight.com.

SHOT Show 26 – Belleville Minimalist Boots with FAT MAXX Midsole

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026

Belleville has something new for the LE and first responder professional. The ultralight Minimalist boot is offered in a 3″ (below ankle) and 6″ (above ankle) height with waterproof versions. The waterproof version are also blood borne pathogen proof.

3”

6”

Features:

  • 5 millimeter heel to toe drop
  • “Superior Light Engineered” responsive foam midsole is 30% lighter than standard EVA
  • Achilles cushion cradle for extra comfort and pressure mitigation
  • TPU stabilizer cup for added heel & ankle support

Men’s Full Sizes: 4 – 15, R & W

Half Sizes: 4.5 – 11.5, R & W

www.bellevilleboot.com

Blue Force Gear Further Shatters Conventional Gear Design

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026

LAS VEGAS, NV. – Blue Force Gear, Inc., the world leader in load carriage equipment innovation, unveils at the 2026 NSSF SHOT Show a collection of products that continue to challenge currently set standards. From a revolutionary integrated battle belt climbing system to signature-reduction and life-saving gear, BFG continues to engineer solutions that professionals didn’t know they needed, until now. SHOT Show attendees can explore the following cutting-edge gear, as well as the rest of Blue Force Gear’s legendary product line, at BFG’s booth #20405 where specialists will demonstrate their unique capabilities.

Integrated Stealth Harness (ISH™): From Climber to Gunfighter in Seconds

The patented ISH Harness combines a gun belt, climbing harness, tourniquet, and travel restraint allinto one lightweight, certified system rated to hold over 3,000 pounds. Modular, removable leg loops deploy in seconds and feature windlass points for emergency tourniquet application or rappelling friction hitches. The ISH Harness features BFG’s signature MOLLEminus platform and anatomical curve design for uncompromising comfort on the ground or at height.The ISH Harness is UIAA and EU Certified as a Type C Mountaineering Harness.

UPL MR Pouch: Maximum Versatility, Minimal Footprint

This compact pouch securely organizes everything from 40mm grenades and CS Spray to tourniquets and spare mags in just 2″ of MOLLE space. Adjustable flaps accommodate items from 4″ to 7″ in height, while the integrated BLIP pull tab ensures quick access in any conditions. Built with ULTRACOMP laminate, the MR Pouch reduces weight by up to 60% without sacrificing durability.

MTKN!® Nano LE: Life-Saving Capacity in a Compact Package

Despite its streamlined design, the Nano LE matches the capacity of the Micro Trauma Kit NOW!, holding QuickClot Gauze, Mini Compression Dressing, Hypothermia Blanket, and more depending on the fill level chosen. Two integrated sidecar pouches secure NARCAN Nasal Spray and a tourniquet, while single-hand BLIP pull tab access ensures rapid and consistent deployment. The Nano LE mountshorizontally or vertically on MOLLE or pants belts for ultimate flexibility.

BNVD Pouch & Slipcover: Signature Management and Convenience

Born from GWOT lessons learned, BFG’s BNVD Slipcover addresses a critical operational need: signature reduction. The lightweight Slipcover masks the distinctive BNVD shape with a shaggy design built out of nylon spandex while also providing natural face-shading. The perfect companion to the Slipcover, the BNVD Pouch delivers padded protection with a Fastex Buckle closure and MOLLE-compatible Helium Whisper pouch attachment. Together, they provide seamless protection from arms room storage to deployment.

For more information about Blue Force Gear or any of their product offerings, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

About Blue Force Gear®

Blue Force Gear designs the best weapon slings and leads the lightweight load carriage equipment revolution with Ten-Speed multi-use pouches, MOLLEminus platforms, and the patented Helium Whisper attachment system. Their proprietaryULTRACOMP high-performance coated fabric laminate material, unrivaled innovation, and attention to detail set Blue Force Gear apart from others in the tactical equipment industry. Blue Force Gear is a Great Place to Work Certified Company. For more information, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

SHOT Show 26 – Crye Precision Announces New Airlink Knee & Elbow Pads

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026

Crye Precision has been working on a new knee and elbow pad system for a couple of years and has now launched the Airlink Combat Knee Pad, Field Knee Oad and Elbow Pad.

From Left to Right:

The Airlink Elbow Pad is molded from firm EVA foam to provide increased comfort and stability when shooting from the prone position. Its L-shaped cross section prevents the pads from rolling out from under the elbow, maintaining consistent contact and alignment. A flat exterior surface delivers a stable platform against the ground for improved shooting support.

The Airlink Field Knee Pad provides full-coverage protection for users who prefer an enclosed knee pad with extended shin coverage. Molded from durable EVA foam, it’s designed to absorb impact and redistribute pressure away from the kneecap for increased comfort on hard surfaces. The contoured shape enhances stability while kneeling and maintains a secure, comfortable fit during movement.

The Airlink Combat Knee Pad is molded from a single piece of flexible, durable EVA foam and shaped to distribute weight away from the kneecap while absorbing impact efficiently. Its contoured design is based on precision pressure mapping and extensive impact testing to maximize protection without sacrificing mobility. Engineered to perform like a performance running shoe, it provides joint protection in a lightweight, low-profile form.

Coming late 2026.

Mission First Tactical Guardian Duty Holster Earns NTOA Recommendation

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026

Horsham, PA – (January 19th, 2026) – Mission First Tactical(MFT) manufacturers of state-of-the-art, USA made rifle/carbine accessories and holsters, is proud to announce they have earned the prestigious National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) members testing approval and recommendation for the MFT Guardian Duty Holster.

We are incredibly honored and humbled by this recognition, “said Bobby McGee Exec. Vice President Product Development & Innovation, Mission First Tactical. “We push the limits of retention by utilizing our instinctive locking system’s full containment technology. It maximizes strength and durability using magnetic and aerospace carbon fiber rod technology. “McGee goes on to say, “We designed and created a system that is safer, faster, and lighter for the frontliners that demand that out of their safety equipment. We proudly stand behind and support all officers, first responders, US Military and those who choose to run to, instead of from, critical situations.”

The NTOA Member Tested and Recommended Program has tested more than 3,000 products in real-world situations, since 2003, and is regarded by many law enforcement agencies as paramount to their product purchasing decisions.

Too many duty holsters sacrifice either speed or security, putting lives at risk. The MFT Guardian Duty Holster eliminates the need for that compromise, without impeding a master grip. This revolutionary design reduces the risks of gun grabs, foreign object and finger ingress, and optic bobble when drawing. The instinctive locking system and automatic optic hood reset offer consistent reholstering, giving officers the confidence they need while on duty. Backed by over 25 years of tactical experience and real-world feedback, it’s built for professionals who demand rapid access and reliable retention for every shift and every draw.

Streamlight Launched the TLR-3X Rechargeable Weapon Light

Tuesday, January 20th, 2026

Lightweight, Multi-Fuel Light Provides Broad Fitment for Compact and Sub-Compact Handguns

EAGLEVILLE, PA, January 20, 2026 – Streamlight®Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting equipment, launched the TLR-3®X / TLR-3®X USB, designed to combine powerful performance with multi-fuel capability. The new light brings extraordinary brightness and beam distance to compact and select sub-compact guns and provides a practical and reliable gun light option to shooting enthusiasts.

The new light operates on either one CR123A battery or one Streamlight SL-B9® rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. Weighing only 2.15 ounces with a disposable battery or 2.25 ounces with the SL-B9 battery, the TLR-3X is one of the narrowest offerings in the TLR product series, measuring at just 2.75 inches in length and 1.07 inches wide. Its high-power LED delivers 500 lumens and 6,500 candela over a beam distance of 161 meters. With an SL-B9 Li-Ion 850mAh USB-C rechargeable battery inserted, the run time is one hour; using a CR123A battery, the run time is 1.5 hours.

“The TLR-3X delivers everything in a sleek, compact design — a high-quality, multi-fuel light that produces 500 lumens. It combines rugged durability, and broad fitment for a wide range of handguns,” said Michael F. Dineen, President of Streamlight. “This new light is ideal for everyone, from beginners to seasoned shooting enthusiasts.” 

Ready for use in seconds, the TLR-3X’s innovative, snap-on-and-tighten design ensures quick and safe installation and removal without placing hands in front of the gun muzzle. Rear switches to the left and right of the trigger guard provide ambidextrous operation. Offering both momentary and constant on operation, the light also features a user-activated strobe.

The TLR-3X is available in three models: 1913 model fits handguns equipped with standard 1913 rails (see Streamlight’s Fit Guide for current compatibility); 1913 Slim model to fit the Glock® 43X® MOS, 48 MOS, 43X®Rail, and 48 Rail, FN Reflex®, and FN Reflex® XL; and the P365 model, which fits the Sig Sauer® P365 and P365® XL (closed rail systems only – does not fit the P365® XMACRO). A reversible clamp system enables the 1913 model to fit short and standard railed handguns. 

Manufactured from heat-resistant engineered polymer, the light also features a scratch-resistant BOROFLOAT®high-temperature glass lens. With live-fire tested, impact-resistant construction, the new light has an IPX7 rated design, making it waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The TLR-3X is also compliant with the Trade Agreements Act.

The TLR-3X comes with a single CR123A lithium disposable battery, while the TLR-3X USB model ships with a rechargeable lithium polymer battery pack; both models can accept either battery. The TLR-3X has an MSRP of $170.00 and the TLR-3X USB has an MSRP of $179.00. Both come with Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.