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GA-ASI Welcomes USAF Designation for New CCA: YFQ-42A

March 5th, 2025

SAN DIEGO – 3 March 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) welcomes the U.S. Air Force’s designation for its Collaborative Combat Aircraft: the new uncrewed jet fighter will be called the YFQ-42A. The announcement on Monday followed an earlier USAF decision in 2024 that GA-ASI was selected to develop and build the YFQ-42A.

“We’re proud to get a new official aircraft designation,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “YFQ-42A continues a long and distinguished history for GA-ASI that dates back to the 1990s and the debut of the RQ-1 Predator®, which later changed to MQ-1 Predator. That uncrewed aircraft gave way to the MQ-9A Reaper®, the MQ-20 Avenger®, our new MQ-9B SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian®, and many others.

“These aircraft represent an unrivaled history of capable, dependable uncrewed platforms that meet the needs of America’s warfighters and point the way to a significant new era for airpower.”

The Air Force selected YFQ-42A as the Mission Design Series (MDS) for GA-ASI’s CCA prototype, representing the first in a new generation of unmanned fighter aircraft. YFQ-42A will be critical in securing air dominance for the Joint Force in future conflicts, leveraging autonomous capabilities and crewed-uncrewed teaming to defeat enemy threats in contested environments.

The Air Force is developing Autonomous Collaborative Platforms to maintain its air superiority. Semi-autonomous aircraft, like YFQ-42A, will enhance flexibility, affordability, and mission effectiveness. YFQ-42A will enhance air superiority as a flexible, affordable force multiplier. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with current and next-generation crewed aircraft, expanding mission capabilities and ensuring continued air dominance. In short, YFQ-42A provides fighter capacity – affordable mass – at a lower cost and on a threat-relevant timeline.

The YFQ-42A designation follows the Air Force’s decision to designate GA-ASI’s highly common predecessor aircraft as the XQ-67A Off-Board Sensing Station. The XQ-67A was ordered by the Air Force Research Lab to support the development of concepts necessary to implement the vision for CCA.

In the Air Force system, an “X” plane is designed for testing and experimentation, while “Y” describes initial production-representative aircraft, usually ahead of a formal program. “F” is for fighter and “Q” designates an uncrewed aircraft. Once the production-representative aircraft moves into production, the “Y” will drop from the prefix.

GA-ASI will have a one-sixth scale model of the YFQ-42A on display during the Air Warfare Symposium March 3-5, 2025, in booth #1003.

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Press Release | No Comments »

9th Annual Whiskey & War Stories – March 22, 2025 in Va Beach

March 5th, 2025

The Silent Warrior Foundation is announcing their 9th Annual Whiskey & War Stories at the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort March 22, 2025.

This year we are honored to have British SAS veteran Christian Craighead and former Google employee Meyli Chapin. Both Christian and Meyli were immersed in the DusitD2 complex terrorist attack in the Westlands District of Nairobi, Kenya on January 15-16, 2019. Christian famously earned the internet nickname “Obi Wan Nairobi” after images and video of him repeatedly entering the complex to rescue civilians and engage the terrorists within emerged in news reports and on the internet.

For his actions he was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross, one of only around 60 ever awarded for “acts of conspicuous gallantry during active operations against the enemy”.

Meyli was trapped in her room by herself for 17 hours of the 22 hour seige. Her experience inspired her to author the book “Terrorist Attack Girl, How I Survived Terrorism and Reconstructed My Shattered Mind”.

ABOUT THE EVENTLOCATION:MARRIOTT VIRGINIA BEACH OCEANFRONT RESORT4201 ATLANTIC AVENUEVIRGINIA BEACH, VA 23451

SCHEDULE:

VIP NIGHT

(MEET AND MINGLE WITH OUR SPEAKERS)

FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 2025

(INCLUDES WHISKEY TASTING BY TARNISHED TRUTH DISTILLERY AND TACO BAR)

DOORS AT 5PM UNTIL 10 PM

GALA NIGHT

SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 2025

COCKTAIL HOUR, AUCTION, DINNER AND FEATURE PRESENTATION

DOORS AND COCKTAIL HOUR 5PM

AUCTION 5-9 PM

DINNER 6 PM

FEATURE PRESENTATION 7:15 PM

CONCLUSION 9:00 PM

(CIGARS ON THE OCEANFRONT DECK AFTERWARDS)

Do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet Christian and Meyli and hear them relate their experiences during the Dusit D2 complex terrorist attack.

Back as our moderator this year will be Retired Navy SEAL Senior Chief Dave Hall. Please join us and our friends from one of our favorite international special operations units, the storied British SAS for this exciting event. Doors open at 5:00 pm and the event will conclude around 10:00 pm.

Individual ticket prices are $175 per person, and various table sponsorships are available. All proceeds benefit the Silent Warrior Foundation, a 501(c)3 charity serving our Special Operations Community since 2010.

The auction this year includes clones of Christian Craighead’s rifle and pistol, a copy of his custom TG Knives knife, as well as industry donated optics and equipment.

ABOUT THE CHARITY

FOUNDED IN 2010, THE SILENT WARRIOR SCHOLARSHIP FUND WAS SET UP BY RECONNAISSANCE MARINES IN MEMORY OF THEIR FALLEN BROTHERS.

Originally founded as the Silent Warrior Scholarship Fund, our mission was to award scholarships to any college-bound person based on direct familial relationships to a Reconnaissance Marine/0321 or Critical Skills Operator/0372, based on academic achievement and financial need.

Our revised mission includes support for our Special Operations Veterans & their families by providing funding for emergency assistance, mental health services, education, scholarships, HBOT and for service dogs.

Special hotel rates at both the Marriott Virginia Beach Hotel and the Cavalier Hotel are available for those attending our event for a limited time. Rate link is on the event registration site:

9th Annual Whiskey and War Stories | Auction Frogs

Posted in Charity, Fundraising, Guest Post, Veterans | No Comments »

TangoDown – Vickers Tactical +3 Extension for GLOCK 43

March 5th, 2025

TangoDown® Inc. announces product collaboration with XTECH® Tactical on the new Vickers Tactical™ +3 Magazine Extension for GLOCK® 43 model (VTMFP-011). The VTMFP-011 is made of the same durable material used in the GLOCK® magazine body. It also matches the grip frame texture to ensure non-slip grip for reloads. The 9+1 capacity enhances an already desirable option for EDC.

The VTMFP-011 consists of the following: two-piece extended floorplate; floorplate retainer; and stainless-steel spring. The kit converts (1) GLOCK® factory OEM magazine.

Note: Fits Glock® 43 Model ONLY.

Installation by a Certified Glock™ Armorer or Gunsmith recommended.

Visit the product page for all information regarding the VTMFP-011: tangodown.com/vickers-tactical-3-magazine-extension-for-the-glock-43-vtmfp-011

MSRP: $19.95

Customer Questions: sales@tangodown.com

**If you aren’t sure what part you need, email us with the GEN/Model & our team will point you in the right direction.

Posted in Advertiser, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | No Comments »

New Helmet Bags from WARQ and Defilade

March 5th, 2025

Here are two new helmet bags from WARQ and Defilade. They offer the same features:

– Four-way latch down mesh for a secure fit

– Clamshell design for quick access and a large opening

– Two carry handles and removable shoulder strap

– Protective foam liner

– Folds flat for easy storage or transport when not in use

– Available in Tan or Black

WARQ Helmet Bag fits WARQ Pro Helmet, Ballistic Helmets and Bump Helmets.

warqhelmets.com/helmet-bag

The DEFILADE Helmet Bag fits Riot / Public Order Helmets.

defiladeps.com/helmet-bag

Posted in Helmets | No Comments »

Midwest Armor Introduces The RIGlet: Versatile Convertible Placard for Tactical Adaptability

March 5th, 2025

Midwest Armor, the Knoxville-based manufacturer of American-made tactical equipment, announces the release of The RIGlet, a height-adjustable placard that combines the functionality of a pouch and placard in one compact, adaptable platform.

The RIGlet featured in Multicam

The RIGlet offers a streamlined approach to tactical equipment organization with its low-profile design that includes three magazine slots and a spacious zippered admin pouch. Its modular configuration allows for seamless transitions between plate carrier attachment and standalone chest rig setups.

The RIGlet featured on a plate carrier (side view)

The RIGlet can also be converted into a full chest rig using the duckbill modification, which allows for the integration of First Spear Tubes® or 1″ side release buckles, facilitating a quick-release chest rig configuration.

Sizing:

-Dimensions: 8″ x 6″ x 2″
-Weight: 9.5 oz
-Height-adjustable design

Compatible Add-ons (Sold Separately):

-Hilo MOLLE Placard Wings
-Drop Pouch
-Hilo Chest Rig Tubes Duckbill Insert
-Hilo Buckle Duckbill Insert

Like all Midwest Armor products, The RIGlet is designed, cut, sewn, and finished in their Knoxville, Tennessee facility, upholding the company’s commitment to American manufacturing and quality.

Whether you’re augmenting your plate carrier setup, seeking additional storage options, or transitioning to a chest rig for greater flexibility, the RIGlet delivers unparalleled functionality in a streamlined design, making it an indispensable asset in any operational environment.

For more information or to place an order, visit: midwestarmor.com/products/the-riglet

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, Press Release | Comments Off on Midwest Armor Introduces The RIGlet: Versatile Convertible Placard for Tactical Adaptability

Rheinmetall VTAL – the Compact and Modular Laser Module for Special Forces

March 5th, 2025

The modular laser module VTAL from Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics, designed especially for special forces, is extremely robust and compact. The “Variable Tactical Aiming Laser” is suitable for use on today’s shorter assault rifles as well as on other small arms.

Watertight, light and stable, the metal housing has a built-in MIL STD 1913/STANAG 4694 interface. Because the VTAL protrudes only about 25 mm above the mounting rail, it does not interfere with the line of sight during conventional optical aiming. The VTAL features an extremely strong visible red dot laser, an infrared dot laser, and an infrared illuminator. The superior quality of the lasers and their consistency of form enhances the user’s situational awareness in all operating environments. Importantly, the VTAL is compatible with all standard image intensifier devices. The fully integrated laser block is aligned at the factory, making adjustment on the weapon simple. The VTAL can also be configured according to customer requirements.

Owing to the device’s modern design, the operator can adjust the intensity of both dot lasers with the aid of a colour-coded cable switch. The illuminator can be focused using a separate control knob. Furthermore, the VTAL can be coupled with other tactical weapon lights and can be operated using a combined two button cable switch.

Rheinmetall offers the “TL-MissionLight” as such a separate weapon torch. It is available in a standard version with a dual LED head and a special version for hostage rescue operations. Typically, the LM-VTAL and one of the two weapon lights are mounted on the weapon. The robust design assures stability and dependability. The system can withstand the worst battlefield conditions and is waterproof to a depth of 30 metres. This way, operators know they can rely on the device at all times.

Rheinmetall’s laser light package is already in use with various special operation formations. Among others it is a component of the Bundeswehr’s Special Forces Assault Rifle (“Sturmgewehr Spezialkräfte Bundeswehr, leicht”).

Posted in International, Lights, Press Release | No Comments »

Exosens Makes First US Investment in Night Vision Production Capacity to Address Growing Demand and Benefit from New Opportunities

March 5th, 2025

MÉRIGNAC, FRANCE – MARCH, 3RD 2025

In response to increasing demand, Exosens will invest €20M over the next two years to expand production capacity in both Europe and the U.S.

This investment will establish Exosens’ first U.S. manufacturing site for producing “Made in America” image intensifier tubes

It strengthens Exosens’ position to capture a larger share of the world’s largest market, which represents 45% of the global market and is set for strong growth in both commercial and defense sectors

The global night vision market is benefiting from growing demand, driven by increasing defense budgets and the need for armies worldwide to enhance their night fighting capabilities. The return of high-density combat has underscored the critical importance of night operation abilities as a key tactical advantage. NATO and Tier-1 allies continued to ramp up their procurement of night vision systems in 2024, though they are still far from reaching the targeted equipment rate.

With decades of expertise, Photonis, brand of Exosens, offers image intensifier tubes, the engine of night vision devices, which improve soldiers’ tactical situational awareness, agility and mobility, as well as their targeting and driving capabilities, in the darkest of nights.

In order to meet increasing night vision demand, Exosens invests €20m to expand its production capacity not only in Europe but also in the US with, for the first time, a new production plant in the US underscoring additional market opportunities with locally produced “Made in America” image intensifier tubes.

This new installation will take place in Sturbridge (Massachusetts) where the group has already its Photonis Scientific Inc subsidiary. Exosens will take advantage of the support and synergies available within the group to optimize the time setup for the manufacturing of the image intensifier tubes, which is expected to begin in early 2027.

“We are pleased to announce a new investment in our capacity on the US ground, which represents a major step in our strategy. Expansion into the US market presents a significant opportunity to strengthen our position as a global leader in image intensifier tubes. This new capacity will also enable us to meet customers’ demand for large-volume, high-performance products manufactured in the US.” said Exosens CEO, Jérôme Cerisier

www.exosens.com

Posted in Industry, International, Optics, Press Release | No Comments »

Mach Industries Selected by Army for Contract to Develop Strategic Strike Aircraft

March 5th, 2025

Huntington Beach, CA, March 4th, 2025 – Mach Industries, a defense manufacturing company that develops advanced aircraft, was selected by the Army Applications Laboratory to develop Strategic Strike, a vertical takeoff (VTO) cruise missile, enabling a precision strike for maneuver units. The contract for Strategic Strike, awarded in Q3 of 2024, will enhance the strike capabilities of Company through Brigade-level maneuver elements.

Since winning this contract, Mach has rapidly developed the Strategic Strike program, locking Strategic Strike’s design by the end of September 2024, and successfully testing vertical takeoff into full-performance wingborne flight by mid-January 2025. Work is currently underway to rapidly integrate AI visual and RF sensing techniques to allow Strategic Strike’s operation in GPS and comms-denied environments.

Strategic Strike has a range of 290 km, carrying a 10+ kg warhead. The combination of VTO, high speed and range/payload is radically novel for the current fighting force. At the culmination of the contract, Mach will provide the warfighter with a VTO asset that has HIMARS range, cruise missile speed, and Hellfire effects.

The emergence of low-cost, man-portable intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) assets has resulted in a new challenge: maneuver elements are now able to sense farther than they can shoot. Presently, the elimination of high-payoff targets is a collaborative effort requiring the coordination of several services or levels of organizations.

Strategic Strike, by contrast, is designed to dramatically improve a maneuver force’s ability to engage high-payoff targets beyond the forward line of troops. This product refinement will produce a versatile strike vehicle to deliver a mission-relevant payload at range.

The primary objective for Strategic Strike is to launch from beyond enemy radar range, reducing the probability of detection, and increasing launch team survivability. Tactical maneuver units will be able to engage and prosecute high-payoff targets, such as radar arrays and artillery pieces, well beyond the forward line of troops.

“I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity to deliver a war-changing capability to our military, and impressed by the engineering and manufacturing team’s hard work–taking Strategic Strike from design kickoff in September to flight just 14 weeks later,” said Ethan Thornton, CEO and Founder of Mach Industries. “I truly think the product team we’ve assembled here will drive generational value to the U.S. at this critical time, and I’m excited every day to see the rate of product development continue to accelerate. The entire Mach team is eagerly awaiting the day when the factory we’re prototyping Strategic Strike in turns on production and deploys them by the thousands to deter wars.”

machindustries.co

Posted in Army, Contracts, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on Mach Industries Selected by Army for Contract to Develop Strategic Strike Aircraft