Galvion secures order for 29,000 Batlskin Caiman helmets for Canada

Galvion has received a major order from the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND) for 29,000 Batlskin Caiman helmets. The contract continues the company’s successful relationship with Canada and the NSPA. 

By Sam Cranny-Evans, editor of Calibre Defence, published March 5, 2026.

Galvion has announced a new order from the Canadian DND for 29,000 Batlskin Caiman ballistic helmet systems. This procurement, placed via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), also includes over 58,000 helmet covers. Consequently, the total number of Caiman systems ordered by Canada now exceeds 44,000 units, the March 5 press release states.

Originally, Canada selected Galvion for its Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement (DICE) programme in 2023. Since then, the DND has consistently exercised options to equip its forces with this platform. This latest order signifies a shift to the NSPA framework, which streamlines procurement for NATO members. 

The NSPA route provides reliable and cost-effective solutions by consolidating national requirements. And Galvion is already delivering against a 250,000 helmet framework contract under the NSPA. 

• Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement contract for Galvion
• Hellbender UL: Lightweight Design for Modern Forces – Calibre Defence
• IDEX 2025: Galvion announces order for 35,000 helmets – Calibre Defence   

The NATO Caiman system features updated rails and a breakaway harness for improved safety. Furthermore, it incorporates the latest APEX liner system to enhance soldier comfort during extended missions. Jonathan Blanshay, Executive Chairman at Galvion, stated that repeat orders demonstrate strong partner confidence and end-user satisfaction.

Calibre comment: Customer-led development

Customer comfort is a core issue for Galvion’s designs. The company recently released the Hellbender UL, which is designed to blend special forces functionality with infantry comfort. Infantry will tend to wear their helmets for longer than a special forces operative. This places a premium on comfort, perhaps as much as utility. 

But infantry are expected to carry more and more under present developments. Already, they may be required to carry a personal radio, a drone detector, and a smart-phone for situational awareness. This is all added to body armour, personal weapon and ammunition, water, and possibly night vision equipment. So, saving weight and maximising comfort wherever possible are  likely to be popular developments. 

The lead image shows the Batlskin Caiman helmet. Credit: Galvion.