Gentex and Randolph Introduce Limited-Edition Thunderbirds Sunglasses Collection Featuring Authentic U.S. Air Force Lens Technology

CARBONDALE, PA and RANDOLPH, MA, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Gentex Corporation and Randolph Engineering today announced the launch of the Thunderbirds x Gentex x Randolph Sunglasses Collection, a limited-edition collection that combines Randolph's iconic American-made Aviator with Gentex's advanced optical technology, featuring the same silver mirror lens technology flown by the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, known worldwide as the Thunderbirds.

Limited to 600 individually produced pairs, the collection celebrates American craftsmanship, military aviation heritage, and decades of innovation supporting the men and women who serve.

Together, Gentex and Randolph represent more than 180 years of combined service to the U.S. military. For more than a century, Gentex has developed advanced technologies for the military, including helmet systems, high-performance optical solutions, and other mission-critical equipment. For more than 50 years, Randolph has handcrafted eyewear for military aviators around the world. The collection brings together two complementary areas of expertise, precision eyewear craftsmanship and advanced optical innovation, to create a limited-edition collection that honors American aviation heritage.

At the heart of the collection is Gentex's advanced optical technology. Made in the USA using globally sourced materials, the lenses incorporate the same silver mirror lens technology used in the iconic mirrored visors flown by the Thunderbirds and are engineered using military-derived performance requirements developed through decades of supporting military aviation. The result is exceptional optical clarity, accurate color perception, impact protection, enhanced durability, and all-day visual comfort.

"For generations, Gentex has invested in advancing technologies that improve protection, vision, and performance for military aviators," said L.P. Frieder III, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gentex Corporation. "As a fourth-generation family-owned company, we're proud to partner with another American family business that shares our commitment to American manufacturing, innovation, and those who serve. By combining our high-performance optical technology with Randolph's renowned eyewear craftsmanship, we've created a collection that reflects the heritage of the Thunderbirds and supports the military community."

Every pair of the Thunderbirds x Gentex x Randolph sunglasses includes exclusive co-branded accessories, including a custom Thunderbirds challenge coin, premium case, cleaning cloth, and collector's box, all thoughtfully designed to commemorate the collection.

"For more than five decades, Randolph has proudly handcrafted eyewear for U.S. military aviators, and that heritage remains at the heart of everything we do," said Sarah Dacko, Chief Operating Officer of Randolph Engineering. "As a third-generation family-owned company, we're proud to partner with Gentex because we share a commitment to American craftsmanship, uncompromising quality, and supporting those who serve. This collection celebrates that shared legacy while helping make a meaningful difference for Air Force families."

Available exclusively through Randolph Engineering, the Thunderbirds x Gentex x Randolph Sunglasses Collection is limited to 600 individually produced pairs. Every purchase celebrates the shared legacy of two iconic American manufacturers, honors the precision and excellence of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, and helps support the Air Force community through a donation to the Air & Space Forces Aid Society. To learn more or purchase the limited-edition collection, click here.

About Gentex Corporation

Gentex Corporation is a global leader in advanced personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense, emergency response, and industrial professionals. For more than a century, Gentex has developed innovative technologies that protect and enhance the performance of those operating in the world's most demanding environments.

About Randolph Engineering

Founded in 1973, Randolph Engineering is a third-generation, family-owned American eyewear manufacturer dedicated to producing handcrafted eyewear of exceptional quality. Proudly made in Randolph, Massachusetts, Randolph has supplied aviator sunglasses to the U.S. military for more than five decades and continues to manufacture every pair in the United States.

SOURCE Gentex Corporation