Galvion's Hellbender FE Helmet: A Major Milestone for Law Enforcement

Galvion Achieves Landmark FBI Contract for Hellbender™ FE Helmet

PORTSMOUTH, N.H., June 9, 2025 — In a significant advancement for law enforcement safety, Galvion, a frontrunner in innovative headgear solutions, has officially received a contract from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to supply their state-of-the-art Hellbender™ Federal Edition (FE) helmet. This 5-year, $10 million indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract marks a pivotal moment in the deployment of Galvion’s next-generation head systems, setting a new standard in protective gear for agencies such as the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Marshals.

The Galvion Hellbender platform is the result of extensive research and development, drawing on insights from the most demanding tactical teams worldwide. The design is crafted for maximum comfort, stability, and fit, featuring a proprietary geometry that enhances overall performance. Among its unique elements is the pioneering APEX™ liner system, which complements the helmet's design with the latest technological advancements.

Cutting-Edge Features and Specifications

The winning model of the Hellbender FE ballistic helmet is fully molded and assembled in Newport, Vermont, meeting the stringent standards outlined in the DEA and FBI Ballistic Testing Helmet Protocol 2024. This achievement prioritizes backface deformation performance and ensures protection against pistol caliber threats as well as various environmental hazards.

A standout feature of the helmet is Galvion's Universal Bonded Anchor System (UBAS). Developed as part of the U.S. Marine Corps Integrated Head System (IHS) program, UBAS is designed to eliminate bolt penetrations, ensuring seamless coverage and maintaining ballistic integrity. The Hellbender system is available in both hi-cut and an innovative mid/full cut design and comes with single-sized components, granting law enforcement professionals unmatched flexibility when integrating additional equipment.

Moreover, the helmet can be further enhanced with modular upgrades, including maxillofacial protection, Galvion’s E.D.G™ power and data management system, helmet covers, strobes, task lights, and NVG (night vision goggles) mounts. The design aims to accommodate quickly evolving threat landscapes and operational needs, emphasizing upgradeability, maintenance, and refurbishment capabilities.

CEO Insights and Future Aspirations

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO of Galvion, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “Our team worked tirelessly to develop a solution to meet the FBI's high ballistic performance protocols. We’re thrilled to see this contract come to fruition. Our head systems are known for delivering customized performance, thoughtful design, and unparalleled comfort.” He also mentioned that the company has approximately 100,000 units of the Hellbender geometry in service globally, continuously improving based on user feedback to refine the platform design.

Stirtzinger highlighted the importance of this contract, saying, “This new Hellbender system is a great addition to our expanding suite of solutions for the law enforcement user community. Today’s announcement is not just a milestone for our team; it’s the beginning of a new chapter in providing advanced protective solutions to federal and law enforcement agencies.”

About Galvion

Galvion creates mission-critical head solutions, robust power and data management systems, and advanced integrated soldier systems tailored for some of the world’s most demanding military and tactical units. Their focus lies in proactive innovation and solving complex challenges in protection, performance, and survivability, catering to the dynamic needs of modern battlefields. With a dedicated workforce of over 450 employees, Galvion operates from facilities across the U.S., Canada, the UK, and Poland, continuously driving capabilities forward in design and technology.

For more information on Galvion and their innovative products, visit www.galvion.com.