TYR Tactical

Archive for the ‘Helmets’ Category

NEXTORCH UT61 Tactical Helmet Light with Smart Link Technology

Saturday, July 12th, 2025

Cleveland, TN – (July 8th, 2025) – NEXTORCH North America, the primary U.S. distributor of global manufacturer NEXTORCH Industries, is proud to announce the UT61 Tactical Helmet Lightutilizing Smart-Link™ encrypted communication where multiple devices can be interconnected to synchronize color and strobe pattern for coordinated operations.

The NEXTORCH UT61 helmet light is equipped with five color light sources red, blue, green, white and infrared (IR). It also offers various strobe and constant-on modes, along with a red-blue flashing signal mode. The UT61 is ideal for tactical operations, patrol, search & rescue etc. and more. This incredible helmet light provides 3600 visibility and a range of up to 1,093 yards. With an eye-catching translucent frosted shell, the UT61 has 8 multi-light source LED’s and three independent switches providing precise one-handed operation, even with gloves on.

Designed and engineered for extreme use, the UT61 is robust with an IP67 dustproof and a IPX7 waterproof rating this durable helmet light can withstand a drop impact of 6.5 ft. Its three independent switches provide tactile and auditory confirmation for precise one-hand operation, even with gloves on, in the darkness. The UT61 Helmet light offers flexible mounting options: Velcro for optimized helmet attaching and a detachable clip allowing for various mounting applications.Equipped with a USB-C rechargeable 16340 Li-ion battery, the tactical helmet light provides up to 74 hours of runtime. It’s also compatible with CR123A batteries. There is a battery status indicator for the 16340 batteries only. The UT61 is backed by a 10-year warranty.

Technical Specifications:

– Construction: Polycarbonate

– Runtime: Up to 74 hrs.

– Dimensions: 2.7” x 12.4” x .78”  

– Weight: 1.5 oz.

MSRP: $69.99

To learn more about the complete product offerings from NEXTORCH, please visit www.nextorch.com and follow them on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.

Galvion CORTEX Offers Headborne Integration

Monday, July 7th, 2025

Galvion CEO Todd Stirtzinger looked at me and said, “We are not only going to transform how helmets are made, but how they are used.” That was how he opened our meeting during last month’s SOF Week in Tampa, Florida and it certainly got my attention.

He led me to a helmet with multiple enablers and began to explain Galvion’s digitally enabled smart helmet, CORTEX.

The project stemmed from development for the UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory Future Integrated Dismounted Soldier Vision (FIDSV) program. Further work has been accomplished on behalf of US Special Operations Forces. Integration is an ongoing process.

What’s amazing about CORTEX is that a Soldier can dump out his bag of kit and Galvion can integrate it, digitally. Enablers like smart watches, biometric sensors, strobes, laser detection systems, night vision, and thermal optics are no problem. They’ve encountered it all. The system is hardware agnostic and relies upon software, cables, and connectors to act as bridgeware so that everything comes together as a system, no matter who manufactured it. It is both modular and scalable and offers both data and power management.

Using the helmet as a platform, edge processing is accomplished with a module featuring an internal battery and purpose-built android-based operating system which is compatible with Tactical Awareness Kit, the de facto command and control interface for the Dismounted Soldier. This increases Soldier acceptance and facilitates faster integration of new systems.

CORTEX is powerful. It will automatically detect whether a visual augmentation system is compatible with Augmented Reality inputs. This places key data in the VAS field of view, in the direction it is found in real life. Key ATAK functions can be accessed with a quick button press via the built-in 4-key controller at the temple, eliminating the need to open the EUD. This moves the data from the usual torso mount and puts it in front of the eye so the Soldier can concentrate on the battlespace.

Everything is streamlined to make the data more digestible. There’s nothing worse than being overwhelmed with extraneous data and icons cluttering the field of view. Consequently, the AlertCentr plugin for ATAK is configurable by the Soldier who can setup multiple profiles for different phases of a mission. Navigation waypoints, target data, blue as well as red force information, and drone feeds can all be toggled data on and off based on what is needed for the task at hand.

With multiple system communication protocol options (USB, ISW, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) and onboard battery, CORTEX is designed to fit Galvion’s Caiman and Hellbender helmets, although it has also been integrated unto select helmets from other manufacturers, based on customer needs.

With a combination of cabling running under rails (VAS connector, 4-key controller, Laser Sensor) as well as some exposed connection cabling, Galvion informs me that in the not-too-distant future, cables won’t be visible.  They’ll be incorporated inside. As Mr Stirtzinger alluded to in his opening statement to me, Galvion is going to change the way helmets are made. The result will be a more elegant way to integrate power and data into the helmet.

The system is already fielded in limited numbers with interest growing. Integration with new peripherals continues, along with functionality as more customers adopt the CORTEX ecosphere.

www.galvion.com

Ops-Core RAILINK Partner Spotlight: CORE Survival

Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025

We recently reintroduced you to Ops-Core’s RAILINK with a promise to begin offering in-depth coverage of the multiple enablers which work with this headborne integrated power and data system.

CORE SURVIVAL was one of the first companies to partner with Ops-Core on this project, developing the HEL-STAR Rail Strobe specifically to integrate with the RAILINK system.

The HEL-STAR Rail Strobe miniaturizes the high performance expected from a CORE Survival product. Powered by the RAILINK’s centralized Battery Pack+, the HEL-STAR Rail Strobe features dual compact, lightweight lights.

Features:

Small Footprint with Four Settings – High and low visibility in both White and IR. Built with CORE Survival’s patented technology for maximum performance in a low-profile, snag-resistant package.

Tactile Operation – Switches are designed for positive operation by a gloved hand while the helmet is donned. Patented double-switch blocks inadvertent switching between visible and IR functions.

Left & Right-Hand Installation – Strobe modules attach to both the left and right side of the helmet-mounted rails. Communication to synchronize function between the strobes is achieved via the RAILINK system’s data capability.

Familiar Sliding Button Operation – Settings for Off, Dim and Bright operation for both the Visible and IR functions.

You might think that a strobe light wouldn’t leverage RAILINK’s data capabilities, but the HEL-STAR Rail Strobe uses it to coordinate device communication at the physical layer—transmitting raw data signals between devices without interpretation. This allows the strobes to blink in unison, synchronize between visible and IR modes, and adjust light intensity in real time.

Aside from using the RAILINK’s common power distribution, the strobe is optimized for low power consumption, ensuring seamless integration with other low-power devices without placing a significant power burden on the overall platform.

To learn more about the Ops-Core RAILINK Power and Data ARC Rails System, visit shop.gentexcorp.com/railink

Gentex Corporation Launches the Next Generation Ops-Core FAST SF Helmet System with Factory-Installed RAILINK Power and Data ARC Rails

Tuesday, July 1st, 2025

CARBONDALE, PA, June 30, 2025 – Gentex Corporation is proud to announce the launch of its next-generation Ops-Core® FAST® SF Helmet System, now available with the innovative RAILINK® Power and Data ARC Rails factory installed. This new configuration streamlines setup and allows users the flexibility to add compatible accessories separately based on their mission needs.

As a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, emergency responders and industrial personnel, Gentex Corporation now offers a streamlined way to purchase the FAST SF Helmet with factory-installed RAILINK Power and Data ARC Rails and Hotshoe.Trusted by elite Special Operations Forces, this setup delivers seamless integration out of the box while giving users the flexibility to choose the battery pack and mission-specific accessories separately. With optimal fit, proven reliability and reduced prep time, it’s a mission-ready solution built for the demands of the world’s most elite operators.

“Factory installation of the RAILINK Power and Data ARCRails represents a significant advancement in streamlining and speeding up field deployment of this cutting-edge capability,” said Rafe Bennett, Vice President of Product and Marketing at Gentex Corporation. “Providing a fully integrated, ready-to-use system right out of the box not only minimizes setup time, but also boosts operator confidence with a solution that’s been factory installed and proven in the most demanding operational environments.”

Users can expand the capabilities of the RAILINK Power and Data system with a growing lineup of compatible accessories available separately. These include the CORE Survival® HEL-STAR Rail Strobe®, which offers synchronized visible (white) and IR marking; the Princeton Tec™ Switch® MPLS for low-light and IR illumination; and the SureFire® HL2-A Light, delivering powerful white light or infrared output. Each of these accessories integrates seamlessly with the RAILINK Power and Data system to increase operational flexibility and situational awareness. In addition, Gentex Corporation has established development partnerships with MOHOC, Inc., Advanced Materials and Devices (AMAD) and NanoAi Technologies, along with seven other companies who have signed royalty-free license agreements to create new accessories. These partnerships are accelerating the expansion of the RAILINK ecosystem and enabling a broader range of capabilities for end users.

To learn more about the next-generation FAST SF Helmet System with factory-installed RAILINK Power and Data System, click here.

Galvion’s European Production Hub in Poland is Formally Opened by the Ambassador of Canada to the Republic of Poland

Thursday, June 26th, 2025

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, has announced the formal opening of their Production Hub in Poland by Her Excellency, Catherin Godin, the Ambassador of Canada to the Republic of Poland, at a ceremony held on 23rd June 2025. The facility represents a major investment that has significantly strengthened Galvion’s regional support and service strategy. With both production and support capabilities fully operational, Galvion is now able to serve their widespread European and NATO customers from a geographically aligned centre of excellence.

First announced in September 2023 and declared fully operational in April 2025, this major investment was driven by Galvion’s ongoing successes in NATO and the wider European regions. The opening event was held at the new Gdansk facility, with guests including HE Ambassador Godin, the Marshal of the Pomeranian Voivodeship, Mieczys?aw Struk and other VIPs, customers, partners and selected media, attending the milestone celebration. The event included a formal opening ceremony, followed by factory tours. Guests were able to interact with live models wearing helmets from across Galvion’s broad program portfolio, see Galvion’s product and systems on display, as well as get a glimpse into Galvion’s cutting-edge Warfighter Lab, with a demonstration that showcased work being done with Human Machine Interface through simulated Augmented Reality.

Following recent consecutive program awards from key European nations, including a NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) framework contract, Galvion is expecting to have close to 2 million helmets in service across NATO and other European countries by the end of 2026. Galvion’s new Gdansk facility currently employs over 70 specialists and houses helmet finishing and assembly capabilities, in addition to critical support, maintenance, refurbishment, upgrade and training operations. The Gdansk location was chosen following a comprehensive search and assessment period, and the functionality of the facility is expected to expand through 2026 and beyond, supporting Galvion’s full product and solutions portfolio. Galvion’s existing core facilities in Canada and the USA will continue to design, develop, manufacture and service domestic, regional, and key global programs, customers, production and support requirements.

Mieczys?aw Struk, Marshal of the Pomeranian Voivodeship said: “Galvion’s presence confirms that our region is not only a hub for modern business services, but also a place that offers growth opportunities for companies across a wide range of sectors – including those critical to European security. Investments in the defence industry strengthen the region’s economic potential by creating high-quality jobs and attracting advanced technological expertise. As a regional government, we are consistently building conditions that support the successful implementation of such projects.”

Her Excellency, Catherine Godin, Canadian Ambassador to Poland said: “Galvion’s expansion in Poland marks a significant milestone—one that the Government of Canada is proud to support. This facility is not only a testament to Galvion’s innovation and leadership in protective solutions, but also a powerful symbol of the deepening partnership between Canada and Poland. By contributing directly to the safety of those who serve and to the resilience of our collective defence systems, this investment reinforces our shared commitment to security and collaboration. The Embassy of Canada and the Trade Commissioner Service look forward to supporting Galvion’s continued growth in Poland and across the region.”

Jonathan Blanshay, founder and Executive Chairman at Galvion said: “This is a very proud moment for the entire Galvion organization. A lot of time, energy and resources are required to build a1facility from the ground up in a new country, and I am grateful for the dedication of the global Galvion team, as well as the support from our local and regional partner network, so many of whom celebrated this milestone with us.” He added: “It’s a particular honour to have HE Ambassador Godin and Marshal Struk on site to formally open the facility, representing both the proud Canadian foundation of the company and the exciting future growth that our Polish operations pave the way for. We’ve now got facilities and networks across four countries, with a team of over 500 employees. Reflecting on our 23-year history, this stands out as a meaningful and deeply gratifying moment for me.”

TNVC Launches NOCAP: Industry’s First Field-Grade Connector Retention Plate

Tuesday, June 24th, 2025

Celebrating 20 Years of Innovation, TNVC Releases New Purpose-Built Helmet Accessory

Loma Linda, CA – June 24, 2025 – As Tactical Night Vision Company (TNVC) continues to celebrate its 20th anniversary of delivering cutting-edge visual augmentation systems and tactical solutions, we are proud to announce the release of the NOCAP (Night Vision / Optical Connector Accessory Plate), a groundbreaking, patent-pending accessory designed to securely manage and retain external connectors for helmet-mounted devices.

The NOCAP was developed directly from end-user feedback across both military and commercial sectors. Built for operational durability and field utility, NOCAP provides a rigid, dependable mounting interface that protects power and data connectors from damage, debris, and entanglement, while keeping essential components organized and accessible.

“NOCAP represents a simple, elegant solution to a problem faced by many end users in the field,” said Ephraim Rogers, MECOM Manager at TNVC. “Whether for special operations forces or advanced civilian users, this is the first purpose-built accessory of its kind; engineered with practical use and real-world conditions in mind.”

Currently Available in Four Variants:

V1: 90° 4-Pin – Compatible with L3Harris BNVD / GPNVG connector format

V2: 60° 9-Pin FUSED Power & Data – Designed for F-BINO / FPG fused systems

V3: 0° 9-Pin FUSED Power & Data – Compatible with Ops-Core RAILINK interface

V4: Dual Power & Data Split – AN/PVS-31D SBNVG – Tailored for USMC AN/PVS-31D + ECOTI “Y” Cable systems

Additional configurations are already in development for a wide array of Visual Augmentation Systems (VAS) and helmet-mounted display technologies. TNVC also offers OEM customization opportunities to meet specialized operational requirements.

For more information about the NOCAP, pricing, and OEM opportunities, visit www.tnvc.com or contact our sales team directly @ 909-796-7000.

TNVC: 20 Years of Bringing Light to Darkness

Ops-Core RAILINK: Cutting-Edge Capability for the Modern Warfighter and Defender – Available Now

Wednesday, June 18th, 2025

Last year we officially introduced you to Ops-Core RAILINK. Today we want to refresh your memory because the coming months we are going to show you some new capabilities that interface with the RAILINK ecosystem.

In a nutshell, RAILINK is a patented, first-of-its-kind, fully integrated, in-rail solution. It simplifies the life of the user, enabling multiple helmet-mounted systems to be powered from a single, centralized power source. Let’s break that down.

Before RAILINK, operators had to deal with multiple battery-powered devices, excess cabling, and weight imbalance which led to improvised helmet attachment systems which were often added weight and were cumbersome, creating snag hazards.

At first glance, RAILINK looks a lot like the ARC Rail, which in and of itself revolutionized how we incorporate enablers into our helmet. But RAILINK does so much more than just mount accessories, it also provides power and device data transmission through a unified system.

There are several components which make up RAILINK. First off is the Centralized Power Source, a rear-mounted battery pack with 6 AA lithium batteries. This offers 50% more capacity than legacy systems. It also replaces multiple battery types on the head with one common type to streamline logistics and pre-mission preparation.

Next are the Integrated Device Data and Power Channels which are a plug and play system for helmets. These are the nodes on each side of the helmet which allow accessories to plug-in seamlessly. To go along with these new nodes is the Embedded Cable Management with its clean, snag-free design to mitigate external wiring.

Power management and more happens in the Enhanced Battery Pack. Aside from the aforementioned six AA batteries there is a built-in accelerometer which enables deliberate auto shut off feature on NVGs, without encountering unintentional shut off at the worst possible time. Additionally, it incorporates a Couloumb Counter to enable Visual Augmentation System battery status.

For additional VAS support, the Enhanced Battery Pack has dedicated channels for night vision systems, supporting multiple voltages and high-speed data for fused thermal or augmented reality-capable devices.

An additional advantage to adopting RAILINK is that it reduces neck strain and fatigue. Moving helmet mounted accessories closer to the helmet keeps the operator more comfortable and mentally focused during long missions.

In coming weeks, we’ll start a deep dive of the various helmet mounted accessories which are part of the RAILINK exosphere and discuss how they can be used to improve your effectiveness.

To learn more about the Ops-Core RAILINK System, visit shop.gentexcorp.com/railink.

Gentex Corporation Announces Agreements With New Partners for Ops-Core RAILINK Power and Data ARC Rail System

Tuesday, June 17th, 2025

License agreements signed with new development partners for Integrated Headborne Platform

CARBONDALE, PA – Gentex Corporation, a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, emergency responders, and industrial personnel, has announced partnerships with new development collaborators as part of its Ops-Core RAILINK system accessory program. MOHOC, Inc., Advanced Material and Devices (AMAD), NanoAi Technologies and sevenadditional partners have entered royalty-free license agreements to create new accessories, further expanding the RAILINK ecosystem and enhancing its capabilities for end users.  

“These agreements with new development partners underscoreGentex’s commitment to continuing to expand and evolve the capabilities of this innovative platform. By leveraging the expertise of industry leaders in their respective capability domains to develop more accessories, we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible for our end users, and the system becomes more impactful to a broader audience.” said Rafe Bennett, Vice President of Product Management at Gentex Corporation.

To support future product and accessory development, Gentex offers select industry partners royalty-free licensing and optional technical assistance, simplifying the process of leveraging the patented RAILINK system’s advanced capabilities. To learn more about becoming a RAILINK Development Partner and sign up for future RAILINK announcements click www.gentexcorp.com/introducing-railink