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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

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on TNVC Launches NOCAP: Industry’s First Field-Grade Connector Retention Plate

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.

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets | Comments Off on Ops-Core RAILINK: Cutting-Edge Capability for the Modern Warfighter and Defender – Available Now

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

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets, Press Release | Comments Off on Gentex Corporation Announces Agreements With New Partners for Ops-Core RAILINK Power and Data ARC Rail System

Did the Tron Tanker Helmet Inspire the Crye AirFrame?

Sunday, June 15th, 2025

A friend sent me this photo* and now I can’t unsee it.

Although barely seen in the 1982 movie “Tron” the tank program’s helmet is of a two-piece design, similar to the Crye Precision AirFrame.

*The image appears to originate on theRPF.com, a forum dedicated to movie prop collectors and makers. User Lindy put a lot into making this reproduction.

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets | 3 Comments »

Galvion Demonstrates Helmet Sizing App at Rampart Range Day 25

Thursday, June 12th, 2025

During the recent Rampart Range Day in Canada, Galvion demonstrated their developmental Helmet Sizing App. Team members measured the heads of volunteers and then compared the suggested size with actual fit.

As you can see I had a great time and a bit of a laugh over the situation. Me and my odd-shaped head didn’t quite fit their model and I needed to size up. It’s data collection like this that allows them to dial in their models. Likely, they’ll toss my data as an anomaly.

At any rate, look for the sizing app, coming soon to a fielding near you.

Posted in Helmets, Rampart Range Day | 2 Comments »

Galvion Awarded FBI Contract for Their Hellbender FE Helmet

Tuesday, June 10th, 2025

Galvion, a leading manufacturer in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, announces the successful award of a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) contract for their Galvion Hellbender™ Federal Edition (FE) helmet (previously identified as the Hellbender R7/TE). This 5-year, $10 Million indefinite- delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract represents a significant milestone in delivering Galvion’s advanced head systems to authorized buyers, which include Department of Justice agency components, including but not limited to FBI, DEA, and US Marshals.

Galvion’s Hellbender platform has been developed and refined over multiple years, with feedback from some of the world’s most demanding teams and is currently fielded across various international programs. The proprietary geometry of the Galvion Hellbender system maximizes comfort, fit and stability with a unique helmet profile and features the best-in-class APEX™ liner system. Advanced platform options include modular upgrades such as maxillofacial protection, integration of Galvion’s E.D.G™ power and data management system, as well as a suite of accessories, including helmet covers, strobes, task lights, and NVG mounts.

The winning Hellbender FE ballistic helmet model is wholly molded, assembled and built in Newport, Vermont, USA and meets the stringent requirements of the DEA and FBI Ballistic Testing Helmet Protocol 2024. Prioritizing backface deformation performance; the helmet offers protection against pistol caliber threats, environmental hazards and meets enhanced backface deformation limits. Featuring Galvion’s Universal Bonded Anchor System (UBAS), which was developed as part of the United States Marine Corps IHS program to eliminate bolt penetrations for seamless coverage and ballistic integrity. The helmet platform is available in hi-cut as well as a unique mid/full cut, features single-sized components and provides unmatched flexibility for integrating equipment. Configurable to meet rapidly evolving threat and operational needs, the Hellbender system has been specifically designed to support upgradeability, maintenance and refurbishment paths. Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, said: “Our team worked tirelessly to develop a solution to meet the FBI’s high ballistic performance protocols, and we are excited to see this work come to fruition with the award of this contract. Our head systems are renowned for delivering a unique combination of customized performance, thoughtful design and unparalleled comfort, and we are proud to be able to offer the FBI and wider agency network this latest Hellbender system. We have close to 100,000 of the Hellbender geometry in service around the world, and we are continually incorporating end- user feedback into the platform design to ensure that it can support the ever-evolving needs of our users.” He added: “This new Hellbender system makes a great addition to our rapidly expanding suite of solutions for the law enforcement user community. Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone for our team, and we look forward to offering our integrated system and customized solutions approach to the broader federal and law enforcement user communities.”

Posted in Contracts, Helmets, LE, Press Release | Comments Off on Galvion Awarded FBI Contract for Their Hellbender FE Helmet

HGU-56/P – The Helmet You Know and Trust, Now Better Than Ever

Wednesday, June 4th, 2025

The Gentex HGU-56/P Rotary Wing Helmet System has long been the trusted choice for rotary wing aircrew across U.S. and with allied forces. Originally developed to support the U.S. Army Air Soldier Program, it was engineered to reduce weight and bulk while maintaining industry-leading impact protection,allowing aircrew to stay protected during extended missions.

Now this battle-proven platform is better than ever. With the addition of the new SideKick™ ARC Rails and LockDown™ Liner Kit, the HGU-56/P receives a smart, user-driven refresh that enhances comfort, capability, and mission performance without changing the platform that aircrew already know and rely on.

SideKick™ ARC Rails

Built on the Ops-Core® developed ARC (Accessory Rail Connection) geometry, SideKick ARC Rails give crews a low-profile, breakaway-compatible mounting solution for accessories. Mounting closer to the helmet’s center of gravity improves weight distribution and reduces fatigue, while providing valuable rail real estate for lights, strobes, and more — all while maintaining crash safety and backward compatibility with most HGU-56/P variants.

Click the links below to learn more!

Gentex HGU-56/P Helmet Systems

SideKick ARC Rails

Flexboom Microphone

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

Introducing the Gentex LX9 Liner System, An Affordable, Drop-In Liner Upgrade for US Military Combat Helmets

Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025

CARBONDALE, PA, June 03, 2025 – Gentex Corporation is pleased to announce the Gentex LX9 Liner System, available now. This drop-in replacement liner is compatible with a broad range of commonly used ground combat helmets and is optimized for comfort and stability in a lightweight package. As part of its adoption, Gentex will deliver over 18,000 systems tothe US Army for use in the NG-IHPS helmet system in 2025.

“Our LX9 Liner System gives users a lightweight, high-performance upgrade to instantly increase in-use comfort,” said Kevin Reilly, Segment Director of Close Combat at Gentex Corporation. “The customizable and configurable design allows for the end user to tailor the fit to maximize airflow and reduce hotspots.”

The system is designed to provide unmatched comfort for ground combat helmets, including ACH, ECH, and NG-IHPS models. Featuring advanced breathability and absorbency, itincludes a 9-piece EPP and comfort foam pad set, which includes a redesigned brow pad for added stability. It’scustomizable, one-size-fits-all design allows for easy adjustments using existing hook-and-loop mounting locations in the helmet shell. This enhances airflow, reduces hot spotscommonly found in today’s standard issue 7-pad system, and better accommodates headband-mounted communication systems. Lightweight, durable, and adaptable, it ensures optimal fit and comfort for users in demanding environments.

At under 66 grams, the LX9 Liner System is the lightest lineroption on the market today, reducing overall head system weightwhile maintaining needed impact protection. It has been developed to provide impact protection exceeding AR/PD 10-02 in a wide variety of common helmets.

For more information or to place your order for the Gentex LX9 Liner System visit shop.gentexcorp.com/lx9-liner-system.

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets, Press Release | Comments Off on Introducing the Gentex LX9 Liner System, An Affordable, Drop-In Liner Upgrade for US Military Combat Helmets