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Galvion introduces Batlskin Caiman Ultra-Light Helmet at AUSA 2025

Friday, October 10th, 2025

Galvion, a global leader in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, unveils the latest addition to its flagship Caiman® suite of head systems, the new Caiman® UL (Ultra-Light). The Caiman® UL builds on the phenomenal success of the Caiman helmet series, which has been adopted by some of the world’s most demanding military and tactical teams. The new helmet, along with Galvion’s wider range of head systems and power and data solutions will be on display at booth #643 at AUSA 2025 in Washington, D.C.

The Caiman UL system was specifically designed for elite special operations operators who demand an ultra-lightweight next-generation solution that minimizes weight and bulk, while offering maximum protection and performance. Offering all of the performance of the Caiman® TL (Tactical Light) in a lighter weight, the UL comes in five (5) sizes, ensuring that operators are wearing the lightest, most comfortable, and most stable helmet possible.

The new Caiman also features additional updates, including Galvion’s 3-hole shroud, which uses ballistic mounting hardware and offers excellent stability for thermal and night vision devices. The low-profile shroud uses rubber bumpers for rattle prevention and has multiple integrated anchor points for secure bungee storage and paracord pass-through. It also features an interchangeable metal shroud plate to accommodate a variety of NVG and future headborne accessories. The Caiman UL uses Galvion’s best-in-class APEX liner system with a redesigned harness. With over 7 years of end-user feedback incorporated into iterative design updates, the latest harness features its toughest camlocks yet for improved strap tension, and stronger anchor system to withstand operational stress. A recontoured and wider chin cup results in a more natural, secure and stable fit, and a surface-mounted buckle allows easier donning and doffing while wearing. As a result, the Caiman UL benefits from the most robust APEX system ever, optimized for fit, comfort and stability, particularly under Night Vision and VAS.

Currently in trials with Special Operations customers, the Caiman UL is available for contract, with expected commercial availability in 2026.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion said: “Our Caiman head systems are recognized around the world as the most comfortable performance helmet out there. We developed the system over a number of years in conjunction with Special Operations teams, but in recent years, we have seen our flagship Caiman TL adopted by conventional forces in far greater quantities, across multiple NATO countries.” He added: “The Caiman UL pushes the boundaries for elite teams where literally every ounce counts. It gives them the performance they need and the comfort that, candidly, they didn’t know that they could expect, in the lightest weight available. Our Caiman® UL really is the best, for the best.”

Posted in Advertiser, AUSA, Helmets, Press Release | 1 Comment »

WILCOX and RIVET Unveil Integrated Soldier Systems for the US Army’s Next-Gen SBMC Program at AUSA 2025

Wednesday, October 8th, 2025

RIVET to demonstrate its next-generation heads-up display (HUD) integrated into the WILCOX FUSION CLAW™ ecosystem at Booth #3607

NEWINGTON, NH, October 8th, 2025 – WILCOX INDUSTRIES, a global leader in mission-critical integrated headborne and combat systems, is proud to announce its partnership with RIVET INDUSTRIES, a defense technology innovator, at the upcoming AUSA Annual Meeting & Exposition in Washington, DC, taking place October 13–15, 2025. RIVET will be exhibiting its advanced HUD technology at WILCOX’s Booth, showcasing how its integrated solution supports the U.S. Army’s evolving Soldier as a System vision.

Designed for the Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC) program, RIVET’s rugged, glasses-based HUD fuses data from Soldiers, sensors, and mission systems into a single operational picture, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making in any environment, day or night.

Through integration with WILCOX’s MANTIS™ mounting solution, the RIVET HUD becomes part of the FUSION CLAW-compatible system, seamlessly connecting individual warfighters to squad and command networks. This integrated approach supports maneuvering, targeting, and real-time data sharing, aligning with the Army’s focus on digital transformation and network-centric warfare, while managing the available power worn by the Soldier.

“This partnership embodies the next generation of battlefield technology,” said Jim Teetzel, CEO of WILCOX. “By integrating RIVET’s HUD with our FUSION CLAW™ platform, we’re delivering scalable, interoperable solutions that directly support the Soldier as a System vision and empower the modern warfighter.”

“The Army’s SBMC program is about creating a connected, informed, adaptable, and most importantly, more lethal Soldier,” said Dave Marra, CEO of RIVET. “By partnering with WILCOX, we’re accelerating that vision, bridging sensors, power, and data into a single, Soldier-ready capability.”

Attendees at AUSA 2025 will have the opportunity to engage directly with both WILCOX and RIVET teams and experience an interactive feature demonstration of the FUSION CLAW with RIVET’s HUD system.

Posted in Advertiser, AUSA, Helmets, Optics, Power, Press Release | 4 Comments »

Raptor Tactical – Sentinel Inside Helmet Skullcrusher System

Monday, October 6th, 2025

Raptor Tactical created their Sentinel Inside Helmet Skullcrusher System as a modular component of a helmet system so that the user can shed the OPS-CORE ballistic shell when not needed but retain use of night vision devices.

The system allows for mounting any night vision device, cable management, counterweight pouch, or battery pack. It is compatible with the Wilcox lanyard and features a one-size-fits-all design, accommodating helmet sizes from Small to X-Large.

Conversion takes approximately 10 minutes to transform your existing ballistic OPS-CORE helmet into a fully functional system. An OPS-CORE chinstrap system is required for proper installation.

raptortactical.com/sentinel-inside-helmet-skullcrusher-system

Note: Helmet, chin straps, night vision devices, and other attached accessories are not included.

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets, Optics | 4 Comments »

Two Sites, One Mission: Team Wendy Levels Up Online

Wednesday, September 24th, 2025

Gear up faster with seamless e-shopping

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Sept. 24, 2025 – Team Wendy®, a leading provider of innovative head protection systems, has flipped the switch on not one but two new websites, revamping its digital front door with a sleeker path to mission-ready gear and a stronger signal to its global community of defense, law enforcement and search and rescue (SAR) professionals.

Since 1997, Team Wendy ballistic and bump helmets, liners, retention systems and accessories have combined advanced materials with field-proven engineering, delivering protection, comfort and versatility that operators can count on across town or across the globe.

For the Mission: TeamWendy.com

The reimagined Team Wendy main site looks sharper and works faster by prioritizing key pages including:

Mission-specific specs and learning for law enforcement, SAR, service members and more.

A fully loaded Headstrong™ Knowledge Vault packed with how-to and product performance videos including the new RIFLETECH™ helmet live shoot.

Clean navigation, product info that’s easy to find, plus a visual style that feels as focused as the operators and first responders who wear Team Wendy helmets.

For the Gear: Shop.TeamWendy.com

Shop.TeamWendy.com is built on the industry’s most trusted e-commerce platform, giving users a fast, frustration-free path from product page to purchase. Now, users can track shipments, explore new gear, get notified on updates and easily manage their orders all in one place.

While the store lives on its own dedicated platform, Team Wendy made sure the transition from the main site is clear and seamless. Subtle cues like iconography and visual handoffs guide users between the brand and buying experience without ever losing their place.

“We built the site to reflect what Team Wendy stands for and how we serve our community, from the product education to the specs to a smoother checkout process, everything is designed to make it easier for people to find what they need and feel confident in what they’re getting,” said Kevin Hatgas, Digital Marketing Manager, Team Wendy.

In addition, visitors can expect even more videos, more data and more stories from the field as Team Wendy continues to tackle what’s top of mind for the ones who push the brand forward.

A Future Foundation

Team Wendy knows their job doesn’t end when a helmet ships. These new platforms are built to support the full experience—before, during and long after the purchase. That’s why the company strives each day to be both a gear provider and a mission partner.

For a firsthand look at the reenergized experience, visit TeamWendy.com and explore—and shop—the future of field-ready innovation.

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets, Press Release | Comments Off on Two Sites, One Mission: Team Wendy Levels Up Online

Gentex Partners with Anduril to Enhance U.S. Army Soldier Borne Mission Command with Integrated Helmet and Comms Systems

Wednesday, September 10th, 2025

CARBONDALE, PA, September 9, 2025 – Gentex Corporation is proud to announce its role as a key partner in the U.S. Army’s Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC) program, awarded to Anduril Industries. Under this contract, Gentex will provide advanced helmet and communications integration to support the Army’s next-generation Heads Up Displays (HUDs), ensuring seamless soldier adoption and enhanced survivability in the most demanding environments.

“This program represents the next step in connecting soldiers with the tools they need to outpace evolving threats. Gentex is proud to bring our proven platforms and capabilities to SBMC, ensuring that cutting-edge HUD technology integrates seamlessly into protective systems already trusted on the battlefield,” said L.P. Frieder III, President & CEO, Gentex Corporation.

As part of the SBMC ecosystem, Gentex will leverage its industry-leading Ops-Core® helmet systems and AMP® communication headsets to provide the scalable, modular foundation required for optimal HUD integration. Building on extensive feedback from the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) program, the SBMC effort represents the next step in equipping soldiers with mission-ready hardware that combines protection, comfort, and connectivity in one platform.

Gentex’s role in SBMC ensures HUD technology integrates seamlessly with combat-proven helmets and communications systems already trusted by the U.S. Army and allied forces worldwide, while also contributing expertise to the development of future soldier-vision technologies. The result is a scalable, mission-ready system that reduces complexity, accelerates decision-making, and enhances survivability while delivering both immediate impact and a foundation for the next generation of soldier-vision capabilities.

Posted in Advertiser, C5ISR, Contracts, Helmets, Press Release | 3 Comments »

Gentex SideKick ARC Mini Rails for the HGU-56/P

Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025

Inspired by the Ops-Core Accessory Rail Connector for ballistic ground helmets, the SideKick ARC Mini Rail for rotary wing helmets offer a low-profile attachment point for additional technology, mounting them closer to the helmet, with a lower center of gravity. Additionally, accessories will breakaway at 8 ft/lbs in the event of a crash or snag.

Designed and tested with extensive user input, SideKick ARC Rails are designed to expand the capabilities of your HGU-56/P headborne solution by offering additional low-profile space to attach items like lights.

Mounting them in closer proximity to the center of gravity of the helmet lowers wearer fatigue during extended operations.

Additionally, SideKick ARC Rails are designed to be compatible with the HGU-56/P ABH & RWH style helmets.

Visit shop.gentexcorp.com/sidekick-arc-mini-rail to learn more.

Posted in Advertiser, Aviation, Helmets | Comments Off on Gentex SideKick ARC Mini Rails for the HGU-56/P

HACS (Helmet Accessory Chassis System) 00

Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025

WTF’s HACS (Helmet Accessory Chassis System) 00 offers cable organization and accessory mounting for your Ops-Core FAST Bump and BASE helmets. Helmet Accessory Chassis System 00 is laser cut from, depending on the color chosen, Berry compliant Tegris® or CURV® self reinforced composite thermoplastic. Included VELCRO® Brand ONE-WRAP® keeps cable neat and tidy.

Optional accessories included battery insert, battery insert carrier, general purpose pouch, and more to come.

Check out the overview video youtu.be/VWovd9dHx7o.

We’ll be supporting more models of helmets over the coming months. As with all WTF products, HACS is proudly manufactured in the USA with Berry & NIR compliant materials by well compensated, skilled labor.

wtfidea.com

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Helmets | 1 Comment »

Galvion Celebrates Significant Head System Sales with Over 1.25 Million Helmets Ordered by NATO and Allied Customers

Friday, August 29th, 2025

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, is celebrating the success of its Batlskin® head systems across NATO and allied nations with over 1.25 million helmets having been ordered in the last 10 years. Within that number, to date, over 150,000 Caiman® helmets have been shipped under the long-term NATO framework contract, establishing its flagship Caiman® helmet as the head system of choice for key European NATO members, and reinforcing Galvion’s position as a trusted partner in the delivery of modern, scalable protective headgear. This announcement comes in advance MSPO taking place in Poland, 2-5 September (booth 1-D02) and DSEI taking place in London, 9-12 September (booth N2-420).

This achievement reflects ongoing global demand for Galvion’s integrated helmet systems and adds to a series of contract successes. Notable recent awards include the U.S. Marine Corps IntegratedHelmet System (IHS) contract, built on Galvion’s Hellbender™ platform, follow-on orders for the Caiman helmet under Canada’s DICE program, and a federal agency contract for the Hellbender FE variant. As part of Galvion’s long-term NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) framework agreement, over 150,000 Caiman helmets have been shipped to Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Poland. Galvion continues to fulfill orders under this framework, with additional orders anticipated before the end of the year. The company also supports ongoing programs for military and security forces in the United Kingdom, Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany, and multiple Middle Eastern countries, among others. Orders from new, currently undisclosed customers are also underway.

To support both immediate delivery and long-term sustainment, Galvion’s European production hub in Gda?sk, Poland has been fully operational since April 2025. The facility serves as a key node in Galvion’s regional strategy, delivering new head systems and supporting ongoing servicing, upgrades, and lifecycle sustainment for fielded equipment across the region. North American production remains centered at Galvion’s Vermont manufacturing facility, ensuring continued responsiveness to domestic program requirements.

All of Galvion’s head systems are engineered for seamless integration with modern mission equipment, including night vision devices, communications headsets, and wearable power and data solutions. Earlier this year, Galvion introduced Cortex™, a new category of modular, helmet-mounted computing and data networking systems that will offer advanced capability upgrades for both the Caiman and Hellbender platforms. The launch of Cortex reflects Galvion’s commitment to delivering future-ready technologies that evolve alongside user needs and operational environments.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion said: “This milestone reflects the depth of trust that global defence and security customers have placed in our Batlskin head systems and our team. With over 1.25 million helmets ordered in the past decade alone, significant recent wins and continuing key programs, we are incredibly excited about the future. Our success is a testament to focused design approach, disciplined execution, and collaborative relationships. It reinforces Galvion’s position as a leader in head systems and speaks to the reliability, agility, and future-forward vision we bring to every program.” He added: “With regional production now in place and our platforms evolving through technologies like Cortex, we’re well positioned to continue delivering advanced, scalable solutions that meet both today’s operational demands and tomorrow’s modernization goals.”

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