In a significant development for military head protection technology, Galvion, a renowned leader in advanced helmet systems and power management solutions, has been awarded a follow-up order by the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND). This order is part of the ongoing Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement (DICE) programme. The initial contract, granted in February 2023, saw the successful delivery of 2,100 Batlskin Caiman® helmets and 4,200 helmet covers. As the programme enters its second year, the DND has opted to expand the order significantly, requesting an additional 8,400 helmets and 16,800 covers. This brings the total order to 10,500 helmets and 21,000 covers.
The Batlskin Caiman® helmet system is the result of years of development and close collaboration with the Special Operations Forces (SOF) community. This state-of-the-art helmet is designed to meet the highest standards of comfort and durability while being adaptable to incorporate essential equipment such as electronics, communication headsets, and other critical gear. The system features Galvion’s top-tier APEX lining, which offers an adjustable fit tailored to each user’s needs.
At the end of 2022, the DICE programme conducted rigorous trials of the Caiman helmet systems with members of the Canadian Light Infantry. These trials, held under real-world conditions, evaluated the integration of night vision goggles, gas masks, hearing protection, and cold-weather gear. The Caiman helmet emerged as the top performer, earning the highest ratings by a notable margin, which led to its selection following a comprehensive bid process.
Galvion’s continued success with the DICE programme underscores the effectiveness and reliability of their helmet systems, promising enhanced protection and operational efficiency for Canadian infantry forces.
Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this significant order from the Canadian DND. The feedback that we are receiving is incredibly positive, and we look forward to outfitting more Canadian soldiers with our best-in-class Caiman head system under their wider equipment modernization initiative. Follow-on 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: “In conjunction with the substantial Caiman orders that we continue to receive from NATO countries through our NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) framework contract, this recent Canadian order demonstrates that our flagship Caiman is fast becoming the global helmet of choice. In our unwavering pursuit to enhance the agility, lethality and survivability of the world’s most demanding military teams, this is certainly a rewarding achievement for our team.”