Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, will showcase the continued evolution of its CORTEX™ architecture at SOF Week 2026 (Booth #1739, May 18–21), featuring the introduction of its CORTEX EVO™ system.

First introduced at SOF Week 2025 as a new category of intelligent, headborne systems, CORTEX established a framework for integrating power, data and processing at the operator level. At SOF Week 2026, Galvion is extending that foundation with a more deeply integrated approach, bringing together multiple capability pathways within a single headborne architecture.

CORTEX EVO embeds power distribution, data connectivity and processing directly within the helmet structure. This approach reduces reliance on externally mounted components and enables more seamless interaction between sensing, visual and communication systems. The system architecture combines a ballistic core, embedded power and data pathways, and a lightweight composite shell structure—reflecting a deliberate approach to integration. It rethinks component design and system architecture to preserve the size, weight and performance characteristics expected of a ballistic helmet, while establishing a compact, scalable foundation for future configurations across platforms.

At the core of the system is Galvion’s AlertCentr™ software, which enables mission-relevant data to be delivered and managed at the headborne level. Integrated within TAK-based environments, AlertCentr™ supports configurable visual and audio cueing, allowing operators to access and act on critical information without diverting attention to secondary devices.

The system presented at SOF Week integrates multiple capability elements within the CORTEX architecture, including:

• Visual augmentation: TAK video, sensor feeds and navigation integrations

• Sensing and awareness: Detection and identification capabilities supporting enhanced threat awareness

• Audio and communication: Digital headset integration enabling configurable alerts and system- level interaction

• Power and data infrastructure: A unified architecture enabling scalable subsystem integration

These capabilities are enabled through an open architecture approach, allowing both Galvion-developed and third-party technologies to operate within a single system environment.

As part of this expanding ecosystem, Galvion continues to collaborate with selected industry partners aligned to the CORTEX architecture. Sentinel Photonics contributes advanced laser threat detection capabilities; Adventure Lights provides identification friend-or-foe signaling and intermediary laser detection; Thermoteknix supports optical and fused imaging integration; and Distance Technologies contributes to advanced visual augmentation pathways that support the evolution of headborne display and visualization capabilities. These collaborations reflect Galvion’s approach to building interoperable, system-level solutions that evolve with user requirements.

Jonathan Blanshay, Founder & Executive Chairman at Galvion, said: “Protection of the Warfighter drives everything that we do, but how we define protection has shifted significantly over the past 20 years. We’ve pushed far beyond passive protection—expanding capability, integrating systems, and reducing the burden on the operator to increase survivability and lethality. CORTEX EVO is the strongest expression of that thinking to date. It reimagines what a helmet can be, uniting protection, power, data and compute as a purpose-built platform.” Blanshay added: “Designing for the digitized soldier demands modularity, scalability, and upgradability, and the EVO delivers on all three. It benefits from years of advanced design, research, development programs, and millions of helmets fielded. All of the insights gained from engaging with our end-users across the globe have influenced CORTEX EVO, and we’re incredibly excited to be showcasing the system at SOF Week.”