AUSA 2025: Galvion introduces Batlskin Caiman Ultra-Light helmet

Soldier system specialist Galvion has unveiled a new addition to its flagship Caiman suite of helmet systems in the form of the Caiman UL (Ultra-Light).

The new helmet is being displayed for the first time at the 2025 Association of the US Army (AUSA) Exposition, held in Washington, DC, from 13 to 15 October.

The Caiman UL system was specifically designed for elite special forces operators requiring an ultra-lightweight next-generation solution that minimises weight and bulk while offering maximum protection and performance.   Offering all of the performance of the Caiman TL (Tactical Light) helmet but with a lighter weight, the UL comes in five sizes, “ensuring that operators are wearing the lightest, most comfortable and most stable helmet possible”, Galvion stated.

The new Caiman also features additional updates, including Galvion’s three-hole shroud, which uses ballistic mounting hardware and offers excellent stability for thermal and night vision goggles (NVGs). The low-profile shroud uses rubber bumpers for rattle prevention and has multiple integrated anchor points for secure bungee storage and paracord pass-through. It also features an interchangeable metal shroud plate to accommodate a variety of NVG and future headborne accessories.

The Caiman UL uses Galvion’s APEX liner system with a redesigned harness.

“With over seven years of end-user feedback incorporated into iterative design updates, the latest harness features its toughest camlocks yet for improved strap tension, and stronger anchor system to withstand operational stress,” Galvion stated. “A recontoured and wider chin cup results in a more natural, secure and stable fit, and a surface-mounted buckle allows easier donning and doffing while wearing. As a result, the Caiman UL benefits from the most robust APEX system ever, optimized for fit, comfort and stability, particularly under night vision and [visual augmentation systems].”

Currently in trials with special operations customers, the Caiman UL is available for order, with expected commercial availability in 2026.

Galvion CEO Todd Stirtzinger was quoted in a company press release as saying, “Our Caiman head systems are recognised around the world as the most comfortable performance helmet out there. We developed the system over a number of years in conjunction with special operations teams, but in recent years we have seen our flagship Caiman TL adopted by conventional forces in far greater quantities, across multiple NATO countries.

“The Caiman UL pushes the boundaries for elite teams where literally every ounce counts,” Stirtzinger added. “It gives them the performance they need and the comfort that, candidly, they didn’t know that they could expect, in the lightest weight available.”