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SHOT Show 26 – WARQ GEN 2 Force-on-Force Helmet

Saturday, February 7th, 2026

WARQ exhibited their new GEN 2 Force-on-Force Helmet.

Enhancements:

• EN 1385 bump certified: The only bump-certified force-on-force helmet on the market.

• D3O Halo 7 pad system: Advanced blunt impact absorption.

• Reinforced fiberglass shell.

• Improved sizing ratchet and retention system.

These are on top of the existing features of the helmet:

• Complete anti-fog ventilation system

• Extra-wide 210° visor for enhanced situational awareness

• One-size-fits-all adjustability

• Made in Europe

• EN 166A and ASTM F1776 certified protection standards

• Industry leading 5 year warranty

Available through Rampart USA.

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Mehler Protection Introduces Next-Generation Combat Helmet — Made in Germany

Friday, February 6th, 2026

FULDA, GERMANY (06.02.2026)

Mehler Protection is expanding its ballistic helmet portfolio with the Omega Core, an ultra-light combat helmet made from a high-performance UHMWPE composite, designed for modern tactical and military mission profiles.

The Omega Core combines an optimised UHMWPE composite core with a shell-integrated energy-dissipation system and an ergonomically designed interior. The result is an optimal weight-to-performance ratio that enhances mobility while reducing operational fatigue and neck strain. The helmet system will be showcased at Enforce Tac 2026 as part of Mehler Protection’s current helmet portfolio. Industry professionals, particularly those representing European armed forces, are warmly invited to visit the Mehler Systems Group stand to experience the combat helmet first-hand.

The Omega Core pairs a sophisticated ballistic construction with an open rail architecture and modular interfaces, e.g. for NVG mounts, visors, communications devices and hearing protection and more. The interior features multi-chamber pads and adaptive anchoring points to minimise micro-movements under dynamic loads, thereby improving stability, comfort, and fit. The individually adjustable suspension net provides continuous ventilation to reduce perspiration and heat build-up. The shell concept is engineered for low backface deformation and optimised fragment deflection. Thanks to its modular platform architecture, the helmet can be adapted to different mission profiles, ranging from highly mobile operations to scenarios involving variable threat environments.

“With the Omega Core we are setting the benchmark for ultra-light, fully integrable combat helmets. The system is ‘Made in Germany’, underpinned by a resilient European supply chain. Operators will benefit from a weight saving of around 20 per cent compared to the current Bundeswehr combat helmet, without compromising on protection, ergonomics or system integration,” says Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems.

The Omega Core is engineered as an ultra-light helmet system. It ranks at the very top of its class and delivers clear advantages in mobility and reduced fatigue during extended missions. The system is tested, among others, to the “Ballistic Helmet” system standard (Chapter 3.2, May 2010), STANAG 2920 (V50 procedure for fragment protection) and NIJ STD 0106.01. Ballistic tests with operationally relevant handgun ammunition (example calibres: 9 mm FMJ RN, .357 SIG FMJ FN, .44 Mag SJHP) are conducted to evaluate performance. These standards and additional procedures ensure that ballistic performance, impact attenuation and material durability meet the requirements expected by military users.

Production and delivery capability

Series production takes place at Mehler Protection’s dedicated facility in Fulda. The automated production line provides capacity for more than 50,000 state-of-the-art helmets per year. Mehler Protection has the organisational and technical capabilities to scale output to three times this volume at short notice upon receipt of orders. This ensures armed forces’ requirements can be met quickly and reliably. The production strategy is based on rapid scalability, a dual-sourcing approach for critical components and qualified supplier networks across Europe. Mehler Protection has demonstrated on-time delivery, high quality standards and supply chain resilience in major body armour programmes.

Innovation leadership

The Mehler Systems Group was awarded the TOP 100 seal in 2026, placing it among Germany’s most innovative mid-sized companies. This recognition highlights the Group’s consistent research and development efforts and the innovation behind products such as Omega Core, as well as numerous other solutions in the fields of personal and platform protection, load-bearing systems, and tactical clothing.

About Mehler Protection

Mehler Protection is a leading provider of high-quality ballistic protection systems for law enforcement agencies, military, and special forces. The company is committed to safety, providing innovative and robust solutions that are tailored to mission-specific requirements. Its portfolio includes ballistic body armour, stab and cut protection, helmets, shields, and platform armour for naval, air, and land vehicles, as well as critical infrastructure. As part of the Mehler Systems Group, Mehler Protection draws on over four decades of experience in developing and manufacturing customised protection solutions.

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SHOT Show 26 – WX Wraith

Wednesday, January 28th, 2026

Designed by Australia’s Buzzworks, the Wraith from Wiley X is a transparent mandible for use with helmets to provide see-through kinetic protection for those operating equipment such as weapons or vehicles.

The Wraith Transparent Ballistic Mandible protects your lower face by dissipating high-velocity impact and concussive blast waves.and connects via the helmet’s rail system. It features an Optically Correct Viewing Pane which prevents the “fisheye” effect. It also offers ample room for APEL eyepro.

WileyX.com

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Gentex Corporation Announces New Ops-Core AMP Rail Mount with Vent Mode, Increasing User Comfort Without Sacrificing Communication

Tuesday, January 27th, 2026

CARBONDALE, PA, January 26, 2026 – Gentex Corporation, a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, emergency responders, and industrial personnel, announced today the launch of the newOps-Core AMP Helmet Rail Mount with Vent Mode for its industry-leading AMP Communications Headset. Designed and developed directly with end-user input, this enhanced productpreserves the trusted quality, form factor, adjustability, and durability of the original Helmet Rail Mount Kit while introducing enhanced airflow, comfort and stability.

The new AMP Helmet Rail Mount Kit with Vent Mode introduces a three-position system: Deployed, Vented, and Stowed. This configuration gives warfighters better control over comfort, ventilation, and communication capability in real time.

In the new Vent Mode position, the earcups shift slightly off the ears to improve airflow and relieve seal pressure while still allowing effective monitoring of communications. Importantly, Ops-Core Near Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) Earplugs remain fully engaged in Vent Mode, providing increased noise reduction while preserving clear communications and 3D Hear-Through when used with NFMI-enabled Ops-Core headsets.

“Our customers operate in the world’s most demanding environments, and their feedback is crucial for innovation,” said Peter Harbeck, Segment Director – SOF at Gentex Corporation. “The AMP Helmet Rail Mount Kit with Vent Mode is a direct result of listening to operators who needed a better way to manage heat and comfort without losing communications. We’ve kept the same rock-solid durability and adjustability of the original design while adding an essential enhancement.”

The new rail mount maintains the same familiar form factor, world-class durability and rugged performance as the original AMP Rail Mount. It is designed to offer increased stability during dynamic movements and remains fully compatible with Ops-Core NFMI Ear Plugs for double hearing protection. The AMP Rail Mount with Vent Mode is available in three colors: tan 499, black, and ranger green.

To learn more about the AMP Rail Mount with Vent Mode, click here.

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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”

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Gentex Unveils Ops-Core FAST XP Helmet System, A New Standard in Next-Generation Protection for Law Enforcement

Monday, January 19th, 2026

CARBONDALE, PA, January 19, 2026 –Gentex Corporation announced the launch of the newly re-designed Ops-Core FAST XP Helmet System, a ballistic helmet solution purpose built and priced for law enforcement. Designed to meet the real-world needs ofspecialized units, tactical teams, and patrol officers, the FAST XPHelmet System delivers uncompromising protection, comfort, and stability for missions that require extended use and absolute reliability.

Building on the proven performance of its predecessor, the new FAST XP helmet system introduces a fully NIJ lllA (sometimes referred to as NIJ 3A) and HG2-certified ballistic shell, available in both high-cut and mid-cut geometries, along with new advancements in fit, comfort, and system integration tailored specifically for law-enforcement operations.

“This launch marks a major milestone for our company and an ongoing commitment to law enforcement professionals who keep our communities safe,” said Fred Grimm, VP of Commercial Sales Americas at Gentex Corporation. “The FAST XP Helmet System is built on decades of military pedigree but engineered specifically for the realities of the badge. It delivers the protection, stability, and all-day comfort officers need, backed by the quality and reliability they expect from Gentex.”

Purpose-Built Protection for the Law Enforcement Mission

The new FAST XP Helmet System introduces multiple enhancements that establish a new performance baseline for law enforcement ballistic helmets:

? Proven Ballistic Protection – Built for Law Enforcement, Qualified for Military Use

Certified to NIJ IIIA and HG2 standards, the helmet providestrusted protection against 9mm and .44 Magnum threats while delivering enhanced fragmentation performance. Going beyond NIJ requirements, Gentex validates every helmet size through comprehensive military testing protocols, including exposure to ambient, hot, cold, wet, and high-altitude environmental conditions. This expanded qualification ensures the FAST XP Helmet System meets the demands of law enforcement, special response and tactical teams, and military users operating in dynamic, high-risk environments.

? Comfort, Stability, and Confidence for Long Shifts

Designed for extended wear, the FAST XP Helmet System features the Ops-Core LockDown® Liner, a user-adjustable suspension system that helps manage heat, moisture, and fatigue during long shifts and high-stress operations. Moisture-wicking fabrics and integrated airflow channels keep officers cooler and more comfortable, while the conformable nape pad and cable-driven Occ-Dial® suspension system provide a secure, stable fit when running radios, NVGs, and VAS commonly used in law-enforcement missions.

? One Helmet. Multiple Law-Enforcement Roles.

The Head-Loc® Flex retention system is designed to adapt across patrol, SWAT, CID, and CBRN use cases without the need for additional helmet configurations. A convertible chin cup can be worn over or under the chin and reduces the need for mask extenders, enabling agencies to field a single, versatile helmet platform across diverse operational requirements.

? Integrated for Modern Law-Enforcement Systems

The PowerPath® ARC Rail enables secure, low-profilemounting of mission-critical accessories, while behind-the-rail cable routing helps reduce snag hazards and keeps communications and power cables organized. A Modular Bungee Shroud enhances NVG stability while minimizing interference with rail-mounted equipment in dynamic law-enforcement environments.

Headquartered in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, Gentex Corporation draws on a 130-year legacy of delivering high-performance protective equipment to those who serve, at home and around the world.

This launch is the first in a series of law enforcement focused product releases planned for 2026, as Gentex advances its commitment to supporting agencies with integrated, modern, and mission-ready headborne solutions. Discover the new FAST XP Helmet System here.

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Ops-Core Started Out As Artisent

Saturday, January 17th, 2026

Back in 2014, I had an opportunity to visit Ops-Core’s new factory in Boston for a personal tour by founder David Rogers. The company started out as Artisent which made head protection like hockey helmets. Due to their location near Natick Labs they ended up doing some cool headborne systems work, including as part of Objective Force Warrior. Eventually, Ops-Core was spun off to do the military work and was later sold to Gentex who continue to innovate in the headborne systems space.

Below are some photos I took on that visit.

The shelves in the lobby contained a variety of head protection items from a multiple sources, but the developmental Artisent and Ops-Core artifacts in particular, are awesome. In addition to a couple of OFW/FFW models there are also technology demonstrators with early versions of features that are now standard in Ops-Core helmets.