Core Survival had a unique beginning. The company emerged out of a conversation with the U.S.  Air Force in 2002 where there was an expressed need for a more compact helmet marker for the USAF PJs. From that meeting, the HEL-STAR 4®, and subsequently, HEL-STAR 5®, were born through direct collaboration with users. The initial requirement expanded to other tailored needs within the broader SOF community.

The HEL-STAR product line shares common DNA arising from the needs of HAHO/HALO jumpers’ need for an effective marker with a lower profile than the ubiquitous Manta strobe lights.

The HEL-STAR 6® Gen III, which will be available in July 2015, combines the basic features of the earlier HEL-STAR 4® & HEL-STAR 5® multi-function marker lights into a compact, integrated design with enhanced omni-directional visibility and easy battery replacement.

Improved sliding switches enhance tactile feel and provide positive, intuitive control between the two operating modes and four user-defined functions. Functions can be selected from virtually any combination of White, four different color options, and IR – either flashing or steady. Variable flash rates, intensities and coded signals provide expanded IFF capability.

Independent testing confirmed that the HEL-STAR 6® Gen III exceeds the FAA’s 3 statute mile visibility requirement and is shock and vibration resistant, dustproof, and open sea waterproof to 130 fsw (laboratory 300+ feet). HEL-STAR 6® Gen III is built on a platform that allows new technology to be incorporated as it becomes available.