HEL-STAR Lead Jumper Light: The Definitive IR & Visible Marker for HAHO/HALO Lead Jumpers

The HEL-STAR Lead Jumper Light (HSL-103) is a specialized helmet-mounted marking device designed specifically for High Altitude High Opening (HAHO) and High Altitude Low Opening (HALO) parachute operations. It unmistakably marks the designated stack leader using a distinct flash pattern, ensuring team cohesion during freefall. Made in the USA, this device provides essential identifying capabilities for both covert missions and training events.
Mark Position with Morse Code "D" at 3+ Miles: The Ultrabright IR and White LEDs emit a unique Morse Code "D" flash pattern that clearly identifies the lead jumper to the rest of the team. This high-intensity signal exceeds FAA 3-statute mile requirements, allowing your team to track you visually or through night vision devices even under canopy.
Switch Between 4 Functions in Visible & IR Spectrums: You get instant access to two operating modes that cover four specific functions: Green Steady, Green Steady with White Flash, IR Flash (Dim), and IR Steady with IR Flash . This flexibility allows operators to transition from high-intensity visible light for training to 890nm IR signals for covert operations without changing equipment.
Waterproof to 130 Feet & Shock Resistant: Built to withstand operating extremes, this light is dustproof and open-sea waterproof to depths of 130 fsw (feet of seawater). It is engineered to resist the shock and vibration of freefall and landing, ensuring the unit remains functional regardless of the environment.
Operate Blind with 1 Field-Replaceable CR123 Battery: The switches are designed for positive operation by a gloved hand, allowing you to change modes by feel while the helmet is donned. You can verify the operating status tactilely to prevent accidental battery discharge, and the single CR123 battery swaps out quickly in the field without special tools

CORE Survival Helmet Mounted Hel-Star Lead Jumper Light Review

What are some common accessories to add to the CORE Hel-Star Lead Jumper Light?

Team Identification & Formation Integrity

CORE Survival HEL STAR Gen III Strobe: While the Lead Jumper utilizes the unique CORE Survival HSL-103 signature, the rest of the team requires standard identification. This multi-function strobe allows follow-on jumpers to maintain formation visibility and IFF status without conflicting with the leader's distinct Morse Code "D" flash pattern.

Exit & Drop Zone Coordination

CORE Survival Portable Jump Light: This device provides the critical visual "Red/Green" signals inside the aircraft ramp or door. It ensures the Helmet Mounted Hel-Star Lead Jumper Light initiates the exit sequence at the precise release point before activating their helmet-mounted marker for the freefall phase.
CORE Survival DZM: This drop zone marker establishes the designated impact point on the ground. It completes the jump profile by giving the Lead Jumper a distinct, identifiable target to guide the stack toward during the canopy descent and landing flare.

CORE Survival Hel-Star 6 Lead Jumper Light Features & Specifications

The CORE Survival Helmet Mounted Lead Jumper Light is engineered specifically to maintain stack integrity during high-altitude parachute operations by unmistakably marking the designated leader. Its unique Morse Code "D" flash pattern allows the team to distinguish the lead jumper from other personnel instantly, while the snag-free design and field-replaceable battery ensure reliability in the most demanding freefall environments.

CORE Survival HSL-103 Lead Jumper Light Key Features

Distinct Lead Identification: The CORE Survival HSL-103 Lead Jumper Light emits a unique Morse Code "D" flash pattern in both visible White and Infrared spectrums to prevent confusion with standard strobes.
Blind Gloved Operation: The switches provide positive tactile feedback, allowing you to change modes or verify power status without removing your helmet or looking at the device.
Snag-Free Safety: The curved battery access door creates a low profile on all sides, while the primary Velcro attachment allows for emergency peel-away to prevent injury if entanglement occurs.
Tactile Status Confirmation: You can physically feel the switch position to confirm the unit is OFF or in the correct operating mode, preventing accidental battery drain or negligent light discharge.
Omni-Directional Visibility: The LED array provides 360-degree coverage that exceeds FAA 3-statute mile visibility requirements for parachute operations.

Core Survival Helmet Mounted Lead Jumper Light Specifications

Model: CORE Survival HSL-103
Battery Power: (1) CR123 Lithium cell (field replaceable without tools)
Waterproof Rating: Open sea waterproof to 130 fsw (feet of seawater); laboratory tested to 300+ feet
Visible Modes (Mode A): Green Steady; Green Steady + White Flash (Morse Code "D"/Max Bright)
IR Modes (Mode B): 890nm IR Flash (Dim); 890nm IR Steady + 850nm IR Flash (Morse Code "D"/Max Bright)
Visibility Range: 3+ Statute Miles (White Flash)
Spectrum Options: Visible (White/Green) and Near Infrared (890nm/850nm)

What's in the box of the Helmet Mounted Lead Jumper Light?

(1) HEL-STAR Lead Jumper Light (Model HSL-103)

Hel-Star 6 Lead Jumper Light FAQs

Why does this light flash in Morse Code "D"?

The Morse Code "D" pattern creates a unique signal that looks different from standard strobes. This helps the jump team instantly find their leader in the air so they stay together and do not follow the wrong person.

How is the Lead Jumper Light different from other HEL-STAR strobes?

This specific model is built just for the team leader. It has a special tan and black body so you can quickly tell it apart from other lights in your gear bag. It also uses specific high-intensity flash patterns that standard strobes do not use.

Can I operate this light while wearing gloves?

Yes, the switches are designed to be used with gloved hands. You can feel the clicks and change settings without taking off your helmet or looking at the device.

Is this light waterproof?

Yes, it is designed for open ocean jumps. It is waterproof down to 130 feet deep, so it will keep working if you land in water.

What kind of battery does it need?

It runs on a single CR123 battery. You can swap the battery out quickly in the field without needing any special tools or screwdrivers.

Does it work with night vision goggles?

Yes, it has Infrared (IR) modes that are only visible through night vision. It also has visible Green and White modes for training jumps when you are not using night vision.

How far away can the light be seen?

The ultra-bright white flash is powerful enough to be seen from over 3 miles away. This meets the official FAA safety requirements for parachute operations.

Where can I find the CORE Survival Hel-Star Lead Jumper Light for sale?

You can find the CORE Survival Hel-Star Lead Jumper Light for sale directly at Atomic Defense. We are an authorized dealer of CORE Survival, which means you receive reliable, knowledgeable customer support and top-quality products. If you are looking for a Hel-Star Lead Jumper Light for sale, choosing Atomic Defense ensures you get genuine equipment ready for your mission.