TYR Tactical

Ground Combat Element 2040

August 28th, 2026

26 Aug 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

The Marine Corps released Ground Combat Element 2040 Fiscal Year 2026 strategic framework today, outlining the service’s vision to ensure ground forces remain lethal and adaptable against peer adversaries. This update nests under the Marine Corps Force Design initiatives, transitioning from the initial GCE 2040 baseline vision to actionable implementation priorities for modular, multi-domain forces designed to seize, hold, and defend contested littoral terrain.

“Our central imperative is to cultivate a Ground Combat Element that is fully enabled by cutting-edge technology but remains fundamentally human-centric,” said Lieutenant General Jay M. Bargeron, Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations. “While we will aggressively pursue innovations in artificial intelligence, robotics, and multi-domain fires, we will never lose sight of the fact that the individual Marine is our most critical asset. The courage, adaptability, and unwavering will to win of our warfighters are the true source of our combat power.”

The framework actively integrates artificial intelligence, robotics, and human-machine teaming via ruggedized tactical edge-computing nodes running localized Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Key materiel priorities focus on advanced mobility platforms like the Amphibious Combat Vehicle and Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle, expanded organic precision and long-range fires, and squad-level Ground-Based Air Defense. This is coupled with scaling the Marine Littoral Regiment’s capabilities to Division and regimental headquarters, supported by tactical edge command posts integrated with Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control.

Spanning near-term (2026-2030), mid-term (2031-2035), and long-range (2036-2040) epochs, Ground Combat Element 2040 maintains a forward-looking strategy that ensures Marine Corps ground combat formations remain prepared not only for immediate operational demands but are positioned to secure and maintain decisive combat superiority through 2040.

The Ground Combat Element 2040 is available on the HQMC PP&O webpage.

Rheinmetall Receives First Order for a Modular Camp Under the German Armed Forces Contractor Augmentation Program II – Static Accommodation in Lithuania

August 27th, 2026

Rheinmetall has received an initial call-off from the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Infrastructure, Environmental Protection and Services (BAIUDBw) under the German Armed Forces Contractor Augmentation Program II – Static Accommodation (G-CAP II SU). In Lithuania, the group will now, as the main contractor, build a modular camp for up to 2,000 soldiers, which is due to become operational from mid-August 2027. Following commissioning, Rheinmetall will be responsible for facility management, including laundry, as well as catering. The order value for the construction of the modular facility amounts to €250 million, while the subsequent operation is valued at €40 million annually. The order was booked in Q3/2026.

The G-CAP II SU programme provides static accommodation for soldiers during deployment and standby commitments in the context of international crisis management and national and collective defence, irrespective of the climatic, geographical and geological conditions in the country of deployment. Pre-planned modular infrastructure covered by the framework agreement, from manufacture through transport, construction and operation to dismantling, forms the core of G-CAP II SU. Since these steps are standardised and can be called off from a single contractor, the entire process is accelerated. In this case, the contract was used to support the Bundeswehr in fulfilling its mission in Lithuania.

The G-CAP II SU project, initiated by BAIUDBw, aims to enable private-sector service providers to provide static accommodation during deployment. By enabling the private sector to establish such infrastructure, the Bundeswehr can conserve its own resources and keep them available for high-threat situations.

Rheinmetall is responsible for the planning, manufacturing and delivery of camps worldwide – by sea, land or air as required – as well as their construction, multi-year autonomous operation and subsequent dismantling. 

Savage Arms Expands the Ultralite Family

August 27th, 2026

ESTFIELD, Massachusetts – August 26, 2026 – Savage Arms®, an iconic firearm manufacturer, is proud to announce its revamped Ultralite series. The four new models, 110 Ultralite Elite V2, 110 Ultralite Pro, 110 Ultralite Predator and Impulse Ultralite Pro, are engineered to provide hunters and shooters a lineup of lightweight, high-performance rifles tailored for various applications.

“Our goal with the new Ultralite lineup was to push lightweight rifle performance even further while giving hunters more ways to tailor their rifle to their specific pursuit,” said RJ Contorno, Senior Product Manager at Savage Arms. “By combining carbon fiber barrel technology, the new AccuFit V2 system, modular grip options and modern mounting solutions like M-Lok and ARCA, these rifles provide the adjustability, capability and accuracy hunters need in a lightweight platform.”

110 Ultralite Pro

The 110 Ultralite Pro is designed for versatility, featuring a Savage-exclusive camo stock with the new AccuFit V2 system, allowing toolless adjustments for length of pull and comb height. It includes interchangeable grip modules, M-Lok panels and a Blackout Cerakoted action. The rifle is equipped with an 18 to 24-inch carbon fiber barrel, a one-piece 20 MOA Picatinny scope rail and an AICS magazine. The 110 Ultralite Pro is available in Savage’s Western and Woodland camouflage. The MSRP ranges from $1,949 to $1,989, depending on the cartridge and camouflage choice.

110 Ultralite Predator

The 110 Ultralite Predator is tailored for predator hunters, combining a hunter green stock with the AccuFit V2 system and interchangeable grip modules. It features M-Lok panels with an integral ARCA rail, a Black Ink Cerakoted action and a skeletonized receiver. Barrel lengths vary from 16.5 to 22 inches, and the MSRP is $1,899.

110 Ultralite Elite V2

The 110 Ultralite Elite V2 features a carbon fiber-wrapped stainless-steel barrel and an MDT HNT26 chassis with carbon fiber and magnesium components, achieving a weight of a little over 5 pounds. The rifle includes an adjustable length of pull and comb height, an integrated ARCA rail and a one-piece 20 MOA Picatinny scope rail. It is available in multiple cartridges with barrel lengths ranging from 18 to 22 inches. This high-performance rifle is available for MSRPs ranging from $3,599 to $3,639. 

Impulse Ultralite Pro

The Impulse Ultralite Pro introduces a straight-pull action within a lightweight platform. It boasts a Savage Woodland or Savage Western camo stock with the AccuFit V2 system, interchangeable grip modules and M-Lok panels. The rifle includes a DLC-coated bolt body, a Blackout Cerakoted action and an 18 to 24-inch carbon fiber barrel. The next generation of featherweight straight pull rifle can be found at an MSRP of $2,299-$2,439.

These new models in the 110 Ultralite series are designed to offer hunters and shooters enhanced performance through lightweight construction and customizable features, catering to a range of hunting and shooting scenarios.

For more information about Savage Arms and its extensive line of leading firearms, visit savagearms.com.

Saab Signs Long-Term Agreement for Camouflage Systems with the Netherlands

August 27th, 2026

Saab has signed a long-term agreement with the Netherlands Ministry of Defence for the Barracuda Mobile Camouflage System. Saab has also received a first order within the agreement, with deliveries in the coming years.

The agreement, which runs over multiple years, enables the Netherlands to place orders and equip their vehicles with Saab’s Barracuda Mobile Camouflage System. 

“We are proud to support the Royal Netherlands Army with our advanced multispectral camouflage solutions, helping to protect its vehicle fleet from detection across the modern sensor spectrum, strengthening survivability and mobility on the battlefield,” says Henning Robach, head of Saab’s business unit Barracuda.

The initial order is for the Royal Netherlands Army’s existing Fennek and Panzerhaubitz vehicles. The agreement also includes options to equip additional vehicle types in the future. 

Saab’s Barracuda Mobile Camouflage System is tailor-made for a perfect fit for any vehicle, with woodland, urban or arctic camouflage patterns and can be deployed in any environment. 

High Speed Gear Partners with ESSE K9 Collective to Serve K9 Professionals

August 27th, 2026

SWANSBORO, N.C. – August 27, 2026 – High Speed Gear® Products Group is proud to announce their partnership with ESSE K9 Collective, bringing together two American companies committed to developing dependable, mission-driven equipment for professional K9 handlers, operators and trainers.

The collaboration combines ESSE K9 Collective’s firsthand understanding of the working K9 community with High Speed Gear’s proven manufacturing capabilities and history of producing professional-grade tactical equipment. Together, the companies are introducing a specialized collection designed to give handlers greater control, flexibility and confidence while working with their K9 partners.

“K9 handlers operate in environments where their equipment has to work exactly as intended, every time,” said Michael Forras, Director of Sales for High Speed Gear Products Group. “What makes this partnership exciting is that Alex, and the entire team at ESSE K9 Collective, bring genuine experience and a deep understanding of the people who actually use this equipment. When you combine that perspective with our manufacturing experience and ability to turn real-world requirements into purpose-built solutions, you have an opportunity to create something genuinely valuable for the K9 community. That is exactly the kind of partnership we want to be part of.”

“This partnership brings an incredible opportunity to the table not only for ESSE K9 and High Speed Gear, but for the K9 industry as a whole,” said Alex Lausterer, owner and CEO of ESSE K9 Collective. “Whether it’s military, law enforcement, search and rescue, or general-purpose K9, combining High Speed Gear’s manufacturing capabilities with ESSE K9’s intellectual property opens an incredible number of doors.”

Lausterer said the partnership is grounded in a shared understanding of what professional handlers and working dogs actually need in the field.

“You have to relentlessly search for gaps that need filling and create hardened, purpose-driven solutions that allow handlers and K9s to execute their missions safely and effectively. The entire High Speed Gear family has supported that mission from day one with immense passion and excellence, and we’re proud to say we’re just getting started.”

The initial ESSE K9 product collection available through High Speed Gear includes:

ESSE K9 Quick Adjust Hip Lead – A patent-pending adjustable hip lead that allows handlers to quickly change K9 positioning and lead length using High Speed Gear’s Double-Tap Slider™, with a 360-degree stainless-steel quick-release snap shackle rated to 1,000 pounds.

ESSE K9 Adjustable Tether with Frog Clip – A quick-adjust tether equipped with a frog-style clip for handlers who prefer an alternative connection method.

ESSE K9 Adjustable Tether – The quick-adjust component of ESSE K9’s patent-pending Quick Adjust Hip Lead system, featuring a standard bolt snap, mil-spec tubular webbing and High Speed Gear’s Double-Tap Slider™.

ESSE K9 Standard Belt Loop – A classic hip-attachment option featuring mil-spec nylon webbing, a 2-inch belt opening and a Grade 316 stainless-steel swivel snap shackle rated up to 1,000 pounds.

ESSE K9 O-Ring Keeper – A versatile keeper designed to cover the bolt snap and O-ring connection, support sound discipline and create a secure handle that stays in place.

ESSE K9 EZ Belt Loop – A quick-release belt attachment that can be installed without removing or repositioning existing pouches and equipment on the handler’s duty belt.

Each component is designed to integrate into a flexible system, allowing K9 professionals to configure their equipment based on their responsibilities, working environment and mission requirements.

This collaboration expands High Speed Gear’s commitment to supporting law enforcement, military, security and training professionals with equipment built to meet the demands of real-world operations. It also gives ESSE K9 Collective access to High Speed Gear’s established manufacturing capabilities, dealer network and professional customer base.

The ESSE K9 collection is available through High Speed Gear’s website at: www.highspeedgear.com/collections/k9

Legend (Snow Weather) Compression OTC Merino Wool Tactical Boot Socks

August 27th, 2026

These socks were created for LEGENDARY performance & durability. These merino wool boot socks offer everything our Nation’s Armed Services, Federal Agencies, State and Local Law Enforcement, Fire & Rescue, Tactical Teams and Emergency Services need from their socks. Field tested and currently worn by US Special Operations. The mild but effective compression level helps improve blood flow and circulation to keep your legs and feet feeling strong and fresh all day long. The soft merino wool is naturally moisture wicking, breathable and odor resistant creating a comfortable feel to round out the perfect boot sock. The temperature regulating features of merino wool warms your feet in intense cold temperatures and cools your feet in hot temperatures. All of our merino wool socks are woven on state-of-the-art knitting machines to make them extra durable and LEGEND TUFF®.KEY FEATURES AND BENEFITS:

• Made in the USA in our North Carolina mill.

• TAA Compliant (Trade Agreement Act)

• The “Over-the-Calf” length stay-up and in place for all day comfort.

• Mild Graduated Compression to reduce foot fatigue.

• Graduated Compression in these socks is designed to promote blood circulation, endurance and overall performance.

• Durable & Comfortable: Dense Terry Cushion throughout the sock for comfort & warmth.

• Cushion in critical shock zones.

• Soft. The secret our softness is the exceptionally fine merino wool and acrylic blended fibers.

• Naturally odor resistant.

• Moisture wicking & breathable to keep you dry.

• Warm & Cool: Merino Wool is an active fiber that reacts to change in body temperature. You stay warm when the weather is cold, and cool when the weather is hot.

• Arch support designed to provide comfort and minimal sock movement to prevent blisters.

• Machine washable- Low Shrinkage.

• Natural barrier to UV.

• LEGEND logo on toe signifies premium quality.

KEY CONSTRUCTION ATTRIBUTES (from the toe to the top of the sock):

• Low Friction Toe: Toe construction minimizes friction that can cause irritation & blisters.

• Extra cushion throughout entire sock for increased comfort, durability and Warmth.

• Merino wool and acrylic yarn blend provide for softness, durability and to reduced shrinkage.

• Spandex keeps the over-the-calf socks up and in place. They don’t fall down!

• Clencher over the arch of foot for support and helps prevent blisters

• Ventilation panels for breathability

Key Benefits Expanded:

Improved Endurance: By promoting proper blood circulation these socks are designed to support you as while navigating difficult and uneven terrain. The mild graduated compression provides the right amount of support for your legs & feet to perform at their best!

Temperature Regulating: Keep Cool & Stay Warm- The unique merino wool fabrics naturally help to keep your feet cool on hot days as well as keep them warm on cold days. By helping to keep your feet at the right temperature, it will help to keep the rest of your body at the right temperature as well, making for more comfortable working conditions.

Reduce fatigue & Soreness: By using our mild graduated compression boot socks, you will find that your time needed to recover becomes shorter. By promoting proper blood circulation through graduated compression these socks will help to reduce tired and achy feet.

Visit us at: www.legendcompressiontactical.com or www.legendcompressionwear.com.

Reptilia Introduces the AGS 34MM 20 MOA Mount for Extended-Range Precision Shooting

August 27th, 2026

A purpose-built, low-profile optic mount combining a 1.34-inch height, 20 MOA of forward elevation, and the strength of billet 7075-T6 aluminum.

Reptilia is proud to introduce the AGS™ Mount in 34mm with 20 MOA elevation, a precision optic mounting solution engineered specifically for modern bolt-action rifles and shooters pushing their capabilities at extended distances.

Built around a 1.34-inch optical centerline height over rail, the AGS places the scope lower and closer to the bore than many conventional precision rifle mounts. The result is a more natural shooting position, improved cheek weld, and a streamlined interface between the shooter, rifle, and optic.

SYMMETRIC, NON-CANTILEVER DESIGN

Unlike cantilever mounts that extend the optic forward of the mounting surface, the AGS features a symmetric, non-cantilever design that keeps the scope centered over the rifle’s receiver and mounting interface. This configuration is particularly well suited to bolt-action and precision rifles, where extended forward offset is typically unnecessary. By keeping the scope and rings balanced directly over the action, the AGS delivers a compact, streamlined mounting solution while maximizing rigidity and maintaining a clean, low-profile footprint.

The 34mm 20 MOA configuration is designed for precision rifles equipped with modern 34mm optics and shooters who require additional elevation adjustment for long-range applications. By incorporating 20 MOA of forward cant, the mount helps preserve valuable internal elevation travel for engaging targets at greater distances.

The AGS is machined from a single piece of billet 7075-T6 aluminum, providing the rigidity required for demanding precision applications while maintaining a weight of just 148 grams. Its one-piece design is paired with Reptilia’s proven mounting system, utilizing a spring-loaded, nitrided steel clamp and flush-fit hardware for secure, repeatable attachment to M1913 Picatinny rails.

Finished with MIL-STD Type III hardcoat anodizing, the AGS is built for hard use in the field, whether mounted to a dedicated long-range rifle, precision hunting rifle, or competition-focused bolt gun.

The Reptilia AGS 34mm 20 MOA Mount represents a purpose-driven approach to precision rifle mounting: lower where it matters, stronger where it counts, and configured to give shooters more usable elevation when the distance starts to stretch.

The 34mm / 20 MOA AGS is the first of several configurations planned for the product line. Additional versions will include:

  • 30mm / 0 MOA
  • 30mm / 20 MOA
  • 34mm / 0 MOA
  • 35mm / 0 MOA
  • 35mm / 20 MOA

Features:

  • 34mm scope ring diameter
  • 20 MOA forward elevation
  • 1.34-inch optical centerline height over rail
  • Symmetric, non-cantilever design
  • Machined from billet 7075-T6 aluminum
  • One-piece construction for exceptional rigidity
  • Spring-loaded, nitrided steel clamp
  • Flush-fit, anti-snag mounting hardware
  • MIL-STD Type III hardcoat anodized
  • 148 grams
  • Compatible with M1913 Picatinny rails
  • Made in the USA

The AGS Mount is purpose-built for the modern bolt-action rifle.

MSRP: $349.95

For more information and to get your own AGS 34mm / 20 MOA, head over to the Reptilia AGS™ Mount – 1.34″ Height product page.

‘Final Denial’: Air Force Leaders Lean in to the Future of Drone Defense

August 27th, 2026

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. — The 31st Air Task Force sharpened and refined a layered counter-small unmanned aerial system defense capability, culminating in a kinetic “final denial” live-fire demonstration, August 3-7, 2026.

The week-long training event built on counter-sUAS initiatives first employed during the ATF’s February field exercise and increased knowledge among Airmen from Hurlburt Field and Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, assigned to the 31st ATF.

“Through a crawl, walk, run approach, Airmen gained practical knowledge of a full spectrum of layered counter-sUAS capabilities,” said the 31st ATF’s force protection superintendent. “The ATF is posturing to provide tiered defense through detection, electronic warfare defeat, and physical interception of hostile drones.”

Throughout the week, Airmen trained on AI-powered systems that detect, track, and filter aerial objects from planes and drones to birds. They also improved real-time data sharing across multiple levels of command and control from an expeditionary base defense operations center.

The 31st ATF hosted leaders from Air Force Special Operations Command and the 1st Special Operations Wing, joining experts on drone warfare, precision munitions, and unmanned threat detection and mitigation. They explored the latest ways to protect the warfighter and counter emergent UAS threats.

“It’s inspiring to see a unit at this level proactively tackling a problem-set that is top of mind for leaders across the Air Force and the Department of War,” said 1st SOW Deputy Commander, Col. Clayton Schuety. “The blend of entrepreneurial foresight, AI surveillance, and human-directed targeting will no doubt create positive impacts for the warfighter. We look forward to seeing how this effort continues to mature and receiving the lessons learned which will benefit Air Commandos and the larger force.”

By teaming with top industry partners and using existing Air Force equipment, the 31st ATF trained Airmen on weapons designed to defend against hostile drones and safeguard against electromagnetic warfare threats. Airmen practiced organic reconnaissance and denial of high-speed sUAS targets mimicking hostile flight patterns.

“The team successfully executed a capstone event that validated new tactics, techniques, and procedures across force protection and distributed communications,” said 31st ATF commander, Col. Brad Dvorak. “Our mission is to enable airpower operations, anytime, anywhere. By establishing a sUAS instructor cadre, we trained our personnel on counter-sUAS architecture and employed unique solutions for Airmen to track, jam, and kinetically defeat sUAS threats.”

The 31st ATF is a combat-ready unit of action bringing competitive advantage to meet pacing challenges. The wing, commanded by an Air Force colonel, consists of a command-and-control element and a combat air base squadron with up to 2,500 Airmen across more than 60 Air Force specialty codes. The team can provide base operating support for deployed flying units, also known as mission generation force elements, and the necessary logistics to execute agile combat employment.

Story by 2nd Lt Daniel White 

Air Force Special Operations Command