Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement contract for Galvion

Galvion has secured a follow-on order from Canada’s Department of National Defence (DND) for 5,000 Batlskin Caiman® ballistic helmets, alongside 10,000 helmet covers, under the Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement programme, according to a July 15 press release. Deliveries are expected in early 2026.

This contract brings Canadian orders to over 15,000 Caiman helmets and 30,000 covers within three years of a five-year framework. The original Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement contract was awarded in February 2023 for 2,100 helmets and 4,200 helmet covers. 

In July 2024, year two of a five-year framework contract, the DND exercised an option to order an additional 8,400 helmets and 16,800 helmet covers taking the total DICE order to 10,500 helmets and 21,000 covers. The Batlskin Caiman was selected in 2022 following an assessment phase by Canada’s light infantry in operational conditions, the press release states. 

The Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement initiative is a collaborative effort involving various Canadian defence directorates. It has conducted trials to evaluate helmet and modular fighting rig options for light infantry. This work directly informs the broader Soldier Operational Clothing and Equipment Modernization (SOCEM) program, which aims to upgrade a wide range of gear, including ballistic helmets, for the entire Canadian Army.

This success builds on Galvion’s recent momentum, including an order for 35,000 helmets that was announced at IDEX 2025 and the opening of the company’s helmet production hub in Poland.

Calibre comment

The helmets are built using Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE), a type of plastic that can be compressed and moulded to create a strong armour. It is also used to provide spall liners for vehicles and provides a good level of protection for the weight. A large Batlskin helmet weighs 730 grams, for example, whereas a steel helmet providing similar protection could weigh as much as 1.2 kg. This all becomes important when the weight of night vision goggles and communications equipment is factored into a soldier’s loadout. 

By Sam Cranny-Evans, published on July 15, 2025. The lead image shows the DICE Caiman System with customized MT helmet cover for Canada. Credit: Galvion.