Galvion introducing CORTEX EVO at SOF Week 2026

Image courtesy Galvion

First introduced at SOF Week 2025 as a new category of intelligent, headborne systems, CORTEX established a framework for integrating power, data and processing at the operator level. At SOF Week 2026, Galvion is extending that foundation with a more deeply integrated approach, bringing together multiple capability pathways within a single headbourne architecture.

CORTEX EVO embeds power distribution, data connectivity and processing directly within the helmet structure. This approach reduces reliance on externally mounted components and enables more seamless interaction between sensing, visual and communication systems. The system architecture combines a ballistic core, embedded power and data pathways and a lightweight composite shell structure—reflecting a deliberate approach to integration. It rethinks component design and system architecture to preserve the size, weight and performance characteristics expected of a ballistic helmet, while establishing a compact, scalable foundation for future configurations across platforms.

At the core of the system is Galvion’s AlertCentr software, which enables mission-relevant data to be delivered and managed at the headborne level. Integrated within TAK-based environments, AlertCentr supports configurable visual and audio cueing, allowing operators to access and act on critical information without diverting attention to secondary devices.

The system presented at SOF Week integrates multiple capability elements within the CORTEX architecture, including:
•    Visual augmentation: TAK video, sensor feeds and navigation integrations
•    Sensing and awareness: Detection and identification capabilities supporting enhanced threat awareness 
•    Audio and communication: Digital headset integration enabling configurable alerts and system-level interaction 
•    Power and data infrastructure: A unified architecture enabling scalable subsystem integration 

These capabilities are enabled through an open architecture approach, allowing both Galvion-developed and third-party technologies to operate within a single system environment.

As part of this expanding ecosystem, Galvion continues to collaborate with selected industry partners aligned to the CORTEX architecture. Sentinel Photonics contributes advanced laser threat detection capabilities, Adventure Lights provides identification friend-or-foe signalling and intermediary laser detection, Thermoteknix supports optical and fused imaging integration and Distance Technologies contributes to advanced visual augmentation pathways that support the evolution of headborne display and visualisation capabilities. These collaborations reflect Galvion’s approach to building interoperable, system-level solutions that evolve with user requirements.

Jonathan Blanshay, Founder & Executive Chairman at Galvion, said: “Protection of the Warfighter drives everything that we do but how we define protection has shifted significantly over the past 20 years. We’ve pushed far beyond passive protection—expanding capability, integrating systems and reducing the burden on the operator to increase survivability and lethality. CORTEX EVO is the strongest expression of that thinking to date. It reimagines what a helmet can be, uniting protection, power, data and compute as a purpose-built platform.

“Designing for the digitised soldier demands modularity, scalability and upgradability and the EVO delivers on all three. It benefits from years of advanced design, research, development programs and millions of helmets fielded. All of the insights gained from engaging with our end-users across the globe have influenced CORTEX EVO and we’re incredibly excited to be showcasing the system at SOF Week.”