Sponsored by Galvion
www.galvion.com
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05 Mar 26. Galvion receives Batlskin Caiman order for another 29,000 helmets, from the Canadian DND, through NSPA. Galvion, a world leader in innovative head protection systems and power and data management solutions, has received a new order from the Department of National Defence (DND) Canada for its flagship Batlskin Caiman® ballistic helmet systems. This latest order for an additional 29,000 helmets with two (2) helmet covers each, has been placed through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) framework contract.
Galvion was awarded the Canadian Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement (DICE) programme contract in February 2023 for 2,100 helmets and 4,200 helmet covers. In July 2024, the DND exercised an option to order an additional 8,400 helmets and 16,800 helmet covers taking the total Canadian DICE order to 10,500 helmets and 21,000 covers, all successfully delivered. In July 2025 Galvion announced a third follow-on order, with delivery planned for early 2026. In total, the DICE contract orders total 15,000 helmets and over 30,000 covers. This latest order, for a further 29,000 this time through NPSA and outside of the original DICE programme contract, takes the total Caiman helmet systems ordered by the Canadian DND to over 44,000 helmets and over 100,000 covers.
Developed over a number of years with extensive SOF community collaboration and feedback and now fielded in the hundreds of thousands across multiple NATO countries, Galvion’s Caiman® helmet system delivers unmatched levels of weight and comfort, and is expressly designed to incorporate electronics, communications headsets, and other critical equipment needs, now and into the future. For this most recent NSPA order, Galvion will be supplying the DND with its NATO Caiman® helmet system, which features updated and robust rails, a breakaway harness and the latest improved version of its best-in-class APEX liner system.
Ms Danielli, General and Cooperative Services Programme Manager, emphasized: “NSPA is proud to support the Canadian Armed Forces in delivering critical protective equipment to their troops. This procurement demonstrates the strength of our COMMIT partnership in providing nations with reliable and cost-effective solutions. Through the web-based platform of the NATO Logistics Stock Exchange (NLSE), NSPA accelerates procurement by consolidating national requirements and leveraging long-term framework contracts, enabling nations to translate urgent operational needs into timely, mission-relevant capabilities.”
Jonathan Blanshay, Executive Chairman at Galvion said: “We are exceedingly proud to receive yet another significant order from the Canadian DND taking the total to over 44,000 helmets in a four-year period, this time through the NSPA framework contract. Repeat orders like this demonstrate partner confidence and end-user satisfaction, both of which are core drivers for everything that we do at Galvion.” He added: “We continue to see significant increases in demand across all of our head system platforms, with the Caiman helmet seeing far and wide adoption beyond the SOF community, as evidenced by the continued receipt of orders from NATO countries through our NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) framework contract. For the Canadian DND to have adopted the NSPA model makes it very clear that the NSPA procurement route delivers advantages to NATO members on both sides of the Atlantic. Caiman, through NSPA, has now become the global head system of choice.”
03 Mar 26. X-Bow has successfully completed testing of the XB-34, one of the largest privately-funded solid rocket motors ever tested by a non-traditional defense contractor. This milestone underscores our commitment to accelerating next-gen propulsion solutions for the Department of War.
Key Highlights:
- Strategic Capability: The 34.5-inch diameter XB-34 demonstrates X-Bow’s range from tactical 2-inch motors to strategic-class SRMs.
- Innovative Approach: As a venture-backed, dual-use non-traditional, X-Bow is pushing boundaries in the new Defense Industrial Base.
- Rapid Development: Nearly 300 motors tested, Monday-to-Friday (sometimes Saturdays) to meet the Pentagon’s need for speed & scale.
- Cost-Effective: Our SRMs are 30-50% cheaper than comparable existing options.
- Scalable Production: Our 220-acre facility in Luling is operational, capable of producing thousands of motors annually.
- Transition to Production: In the last 5 months we’ve secured 3 production contracts:
o $191m production contract for solid rocket motors (unfortunately, can’t talk about this other than what’s in the DoW’s announcement);
o $8.9m production contract for igniters to strengthen our vertical integration, and supply chain.
o Another $8.9m production contract for yet to be announced motor.
This achievement positions X-Bow as a key player in addressing the SRM shortage affecting various defense programs, and positions X-Bow for affordable solutions to futuristic challenges such as space-based interceptors as part of Golden Dome.
We’d be happy to arrange an interview with our CEO, Jason Hundley, to provide deeper insights into our work and its implications for the defense industry. We can also provide additional technical details about the XB-34 test.
04 Mar 26. SwissP Defence SHATTER4K – a Highly Effective C-UAS Ammunition
At EnforceTac 2026 in Nuremberg, SwissP Defence unveiled SHATTER4K, a newly developed ammunition solution designed to counter small and medium-sized unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
Developed and tested at the company’s headquarters in Thun, Switzerland, SHATTER4K builds on more than 160 years of Swiss ammunition expertise dating back to 1863.
The rapid proliferation of commercial and military drones has sharply increased demand for reliable, scalable and immediately deployable counter-UAS (C-UAS) solutions. While electronic systems such as jammers play an important role, kinetic effectors remain essential within multilayered air defence concepts, particularly at short range and in complex operational environments.
SHATTER4K is fully compatible with standard assault rifles and machine guns and requires no weapon modifications. It is available in NATO standard calibres 5.56 x 45 and 7.62 x 51. A key distinguishing feature is its multiple-projectile design: after leaving the muzzle, four effectors separate and travel towards the target at a slight angle to the firing axis, significantly increasing the probability of hitting agile aerial targets.
A central development objective was to deliberately limit effective range in order to minimise collateral damage. By optimising projectile mass, shape and material, SwissP Defence achieved controlled dispersion while retaining sufficient kinetic energy to damage critical drone components, including rotor blades, engines, electronics and batteries.
Described by the company as a pragmatic, soldier-oriented solution, SHATTER4K is engineered to avoid barrel damage while reducing accidental impacts. Its concept of “precise imprecision” ensures predictable, reproducible dispersion to maximise hit probability while maintaining a tightly controlled ballistic footprint. (Source: UAS VISION/European Security & Defence)
27 Feb 26. Savox Communications announce the launch of the Noise-COM 200ˣ² the company’s next-generation tactical hearing protection and communications headset. Built for dismounted, mounted, and training environments, it delivers next level audio clarity, rugged reliability, and seamless integration across the Savox tactical ecosystem -shaped by real user feedback from the field.
The Noise-COM 200ˣ² delivers reliable performance in every mission environment with its refined modular cable architecture, harsh environment durability, and advanced audio system that ensures superior speech intelligibility even in the toughest conditions.
Seamlessly integrated with the Savox dismounted soldier platform, it enables unified voice and data connectivity that boosts situational awareness and reduces cognitive load. The headset also interoperates effortlessly with Savox Pack COM wireless team communication systems — ensuring uninterrupted communications as operators move from on foot to in vehicle operations.
“Noise-COM 200ˣ² represents the next evolution of mission-critical hearing protection and communications headsets,” said Jerry Kettunen, CEO, Savox Communications. “Shaped by real field use and direct operator feedback, the improved Noise-COM 200ˣ² keeps professionals increasingly protected, aware, and confidently connected, whether on foot, in vehicles, or across multi platform missions.”
Superb audio and comfort in extreme environments
- Savox audio delivers clearer speech and superior intelligibility in mission-critical environments.
- Enhanced user interface with improved controls for reliable gloved operation in harsh conditions.
- Comfort-optimized design with upgraded headband, backplates, and ear seals to reduce fatigue during extended missions.
- Improved environmental protection with an upgraded microphone connector and protective cap for increased resistance to water ingress and humidity.
Power that lasts, wherever the mission leads
- Ultra-low power architecture enables up to 500 hours of operation in hear-through mode.
- Standardized, off-the-shelf AA battery compatibility simplifies logistics and avoids proprietary power dependencies.
- MIL-STD-810H verified performance across extreme temperatures from –40°C to +60°C.
Versatile, multi-role capability
- Quick-change communication cable enables rapid switching between hearing protection and full communications configurations.
- Dual-side microphone slot supports left or right placement for shooter preference and compatibility with integrated head protection systems.
- Extended interconnection cable supports flexible helmet-mounted and headband use.
- Full ecosystem interoperability with the Savox dismounted soldier suite and seamless integration with Savox Pack-COM wireless systems—supporting consistent performance across dismounted and mounted operations.
Availability
Noise-COM 200×2 was showcased at EnforceTac 2026 and will be available through Savox Communications and authorized partners beginning Q1 2026.
28 Feb 26. Avon Protection has expanded its EXOSKIN protective ensemble range with the EXOSKIN-S2 high-performance CBRN suit.
Avon Protection has expanded its EXOSKIN protective ensemble range with the EXOSKIN-S2 high-performance CBRN suit, designed for operators in the military, first responder and special forces segments.
With the commercial availability of the EXOSKIN-S2, users now have increased options for their protective suit requirements across the spectrum of CBRN threat environments: the EXOSKIN-S1 low-weight (4.4lbs), low-burden system for lower risk operations, and the EXOSKIN-S2, which offers a protection profile tailored toward operations with higher threat levels.
EXOSKIN-S2 leverages an advanced Avon Protection design that utilises an activated carbon fabric (ACF) inner layer for enhanced protection against aerosol threats, vapour, liquid and particulate chemical warfare agents (CWAs). Combined with a low-noise emitting outer layer, the suit provides improved protection for operations in CBRN environments of up to 24-hour duration for longer time in the field.
EXOSKIN-S2 retains the ‘suit as a system’ ensemble design of the original EXOSKIN-S1 suit with its focus on seamless integration with essential CBRN protective equipment, including Avon Protection respirators, EXOSKIN-B1 boots and EXOSKIN-G1 gloves. Key enablers include an integrated hood with double elasticated aperture that ensures a protective seal around the respirator, maximising protection without restricting movement. It also features hook and loop adjustable tabs on the lower legs, a thumb loop and inner leg gaiter with stirrup to prevent ingress when worn.
Other common design elements across the EXOSKIN suit range include a quarter zip and full zip options with hook and loop fastening for improved integration with body armour; and multiple outer fabric pattern and colour design formulations to minimise user detection in hostile environments.
“Our EXOSKIN range has been designed to protect operators from CBRN threats while reducing the physiological burden, so they stay more comfortable for longer,” Steve Elwell, President, Avon Protection, said. “With EXOSKIN-S2, we are giving users a greater choice of protection levels and continuing to deliver the Avon Protection quality assurance they know and trust to keep their operators safe in demanding environments.” (Source: joint-forces.com)
23 Feb 26. Rheinmetall, one of the largest suppliers of combat helmets within NATO, has a new combat helmet in the portfolio. Rheinmetall, one of the largest suppliers of combat helmets within NATO, has a new combat helmet in the portfolio.
The new model is significantly lighter – whilst however still retaining the same ballistic performance. Rheinmetall continues to rely on the ballistic High Performance Polyethylene composite material. The modern high-performance material significantly exceeds today’s requirements concerning ballistic efficiency.
The new Rheinmetall Combat Helmet is available with different cap shapes – high cut and full cut. A newly designed strap system as well as newly designed pads ensure improved wearing comfort. Furthermore, the hairnet is no longer required, making the new helmet even more adaptable to other devices. The more flexible strap system and optimised attachment options on the mounting rails also improve compatibility with night vision systems and other helmet-mounted accessories. The distinctive design of the rails and Velcro surfaces gives the helmet a ‘tacticool’ look, hence increasing its wearing comfort.
Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics has established itself as a supplier to the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) as well as the Bundeswehr’s personal clothing management GmbH. The company delivered around 310,000 combat helmets to the armed forces in record time as part of an advance procurement programme. Rheinmetall is currently one of the suppliers with the largest delivery capacity for combat helmets within NATO. (Source: joint-forces.com)
26 Feb 26. The Leidos (NYSE: LDOS) Small Cruise Missile (SCM) has been officially designated as the AGM-190A by the U.S. Air Force, recognizing the SCM’s role in addressing the Department of War’s critical need for affordable, adaptable stand-off strike capabilities.
The AGM-190A is a 200-pound class mission-adaptable weapon system that, during testing from a C-130 aircraft, demonstrated a standoff range of more than 400 nautical miles. Its modular hardware design and open system software enable the AGM-190A to rapidly evolve for changing mission requirements.
The Leidos “Black Arrow” small cruise missile has been designated as AGM-190A by the U.S. Air Force.
“This capability will provide warfighters with the operational flexibility they need for today’s missions, and help them counter emerging threats in the future,” said Leidos Defense Sector President Cindy Gruensfelder. “The Air Force’s designation of the AGM-190A underscores its confidence in Leidos as a provider of proven, affordable stand-off strike solutions.”
The AGM-190A’s mission versatility and affordability reflect Leidos’ NorthStar 2030 strategic focus on innovative, scalable solutions designed to meet evolving customer requirements.
About Leidos
Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $17.2bn for the fiscal year ended January 2, 2026. For more information, visit www.leidos.com. (Source: PR Newswire)
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About Galvion:
Galvion designs, develops, and delivers mission critical head, face, and torso protective solutions as well as intelligent power and data management systems for the world’s most demanding military and tactical teams. Founded in 2002 as Revision Military, a foundational belief in calculated investment and capability expansion led to a strategic refocus, resulting in the divestiture of the protective eyewear business, along with the Revision name, in 2019. Rebranded as Galvion, the company’s products and technology continue to evolve beyond purely passive protection, focusing instead on active systems that enhance performance and survivability, with an eye to the ever-changing demands of the modern battlefield. Through advanced design, keen end-user insight and intelligent integration, Galvion engineers uniquely customized solutions that go beyond what was once thought possible.
Privately owned with ISO 9001:2015 certified facilities in Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire in the US, Montreal in Canada and Bristol in the UK, Galvion’s team of 400+ employees work proactively to solve the problems left unsolved by others.
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