Gentex Unveils Ops-Core® FAST® XP Helmet System, A New Standard in Next-Generation Protection for Law Enforcement

CARBONDALE, PA, January 19, 2026 – Gentex Corporation announced the launch of the newly re-designed Ops-Core FAST XP Helmet System, a ballistic helmet solution purpose built and priced for law enforcement.  Designed to meet the real-world needs of specialized units, tactical teams, and patrol officers, the FAST XP Helmet System delivers uncompromising protection, comfort, and stability for missions that require extended use and absolute reliability.

Building on the proven performance of its predecessor, the new FAST XP helmet system introduces a fully NIJ lllA (sometimes referred to as NIJ 3A) and HG2-certified ballistic shell, available in both high-cut and mid-cut geometries, along with new advancements in fit, comfort, and system integration tailored specifically for law-enforcement operations.

“This launch marks a major milestone for our company and an ongoing commitment to law enforcement professionals who keep our communities safe,” said Fred Grimm, VP of Commercial Sales Americas at Gentex Corporation. “The FAST XP Helmet System is built on decades of military pedigree but engineered specifically for the realities of the badge. It delivers the protection, stability, and all-day comfort officers need, backed by the quality and reliability they expect from Gentex.”

Purpose-Built Protection for the Law Enforcement Mission
The new FAST XP Helmet System introduces multiple enhancements that establish a new performance baseline for law enforcement ballistic helmets:

• Proven Ballistic Protection – Built for Law Enforcement, Qualified for Military Use
  Certified to NIJ IIIA and HG2 standards, the helmet provides trusted protection against 9mm and .44 Magnum threats while delivering enhanced fragmentation performance. Going beyond NIJ requirements, Gentex validates every helmet size through comprehensive military testing protocols, including exposure to ambient, hot, cold, wet, and high-altitude environmental conditions. This expanded qualification ensures the FAST XP Helmet System meets the demands of law enforcement, special response and tactical teams, and military users operating in dynamic, high-risk environments.
• Comfort, Stability, and Confidence for Long Shifts
  Designed for extended wear, the FAST XP Helmet System features the Ops-Core LockDown® Liner, a user-adjustable suspension system that helps manage heat, moisture, and fatigue during long shifts and high-stress operations. Moisture-wicking fabrics and integrated airflow channels keep officers cooler and more comfortable, while the conformable nape pad and cable-driven Occ-Dial® suspension system provide a secure, stable fit when running radios, NVGs, and VAS commonly used in law-enforcement missions.
• One Helmet. Multiple Law-Enforcement Roles.
  The Head-Loc® FLEX retention system is designed to adapt across patrol, SWAT, CID, and CBRN use cases without the need for additional helmet configurations. A convertible chin cup can be worn over or under the chin and reduces the need for mask extenders, enabling agencies to field a single, versatile helmet platform across diverse operational requirements.
• Integrated for Modern Law-Enforcement Systems
  The PowerPath® ARC Rail enables secure, low-profile mounting of mission-critical accessories, while behind-the-rail cable routing helps reduce snag hazards and keeps communications and power cables organized.  A Modular Bungee Shroud enhances NVG stability while minimizing interference with rail-mounted equipment in dynamic law-enforcement environments.

Headquartered in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, Gentex Corporation draws on a 130-year legacy of delivering high-performance protective equipment to those who serve, at home and around the world.

This launch is the first in a series of law enforcement focused product releases planned for 2026, as Gentex advances its commitment to supporting agencies with integrated, modern, and mission-ready headborne solutions. Discover the new FAST XP Helmet System here.

About Gentex Corporation

Part of Gentex Corporation’s portfolio for defense, emergency response, and security forces, the focus, and dedication of the company’s Ops-Core brand remains the same – protecting elite forces.  The modular, scalable, open-architecture design of Ops-Core products allows for seamless integration and true system level performance.