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Beretta Defense Technologies Expands in Asia Pacific Region – Establishing BDT New Zealand

Tuesday, March 26th, 2024

Beretta Defense Technologies (BDT), a leading provider of advanced firearms and defence solutions, is proud to announce the establishment of its newest entity – Beretta Defense Technologies New Zealand. This strategic expansion underscores BDT’s commitment to providing cutting-edge defence and law enforcement technology and products to customers worldwide.

BDT New Zealand will offer a comprehensive selection of products, including small arms, ammunition, optics, and support equipment, sourced from BDT’s global alliance of Beretta Holding owned companies and third-party partners. By serving as the gateway to the global BDT alliance, BDT New Zealand aims to ensure that local customers have access to the latest advancements in our defence and law enforcement technology.

“We are thrilled to expand our operations into New Zealand and look forward to bringing our world-
class defence solutions to this important market. This expansion represents an exciting opportunity for us to serve the unique needs of the New Zealand defence and law enforcement community, contributing to the country’s security objectives.”

– Slawomir Wicha, General Manager, Beretta Defense Technologies

To bolster the BDT presence and efficacy in the Australasian region, BDT New Zealand proudly collaborates with BDT Australia, forming a powerful partnership aimed at delivering comprehensive defence solutions across the region. Leveraging the combined strengths and expertise of both entities, this collaboration will ensure coordination and support for defence and law enforcement agencies in Australia and New Zealand. By combining resources, knowledge, and networks, BDT will leverage the joint relationship to benefit all customers in the region.

“BDT recognises the importance of the New Zealand market, and the necessity to understand the nuances of New Zealand requirements, which is best done by New Zealanders. This has been the determining factor in establishing BDT New Zealand.

While Australia and New Zealand are proudly independent, each with a strong culture and identity, we also have much in common, with a very strong history of collaboration particularly in a military context. As such, it makes perfect sense to collaborate, and we are excited about the prospect of working closely together, sharing our experiences for mutual benefit.

This collaboration signifies a significant step forward in the BDT global strategy, and underscores our commitment to supporting our customers throughout the region. Together, we look forward to forging strong partnerships and achieving shared success.”

– Lachlan McKenna, Director, Beretta Defense Technologies Australia & New Zealand

BDT New Zealand looks forward to reaching out to new customers, and establishing meaningful relationships throughout the New Zealand market. By actively engaging with local agencies, understanding their unique challenges, and offering tailored solutions, BDT New Zealand seeks to build partnerships with defence and law enforcement agencies to fulfil their missions effectively.

“I am thrilled to join the BDT New Zealand team, and feel my experiences gained over a couple of decades of uniformed service, both in the NZDF, and in Law Enforcement roles in Australia and New Zealand see me well positioned to have an innate understanding of our customers’ operational requirements.”

– Will Pillow, Business Development Manager, Beretta Defense Technologies New Zealand

BDT New Zealand represents a significant milestone in BDT’s global expansion strategy and reaffirms its position as a trusted partner for defence agencies worldwide. By bringing global BDT alliance products to the local market, BDT New Zealand aims to empower defence and law enforcement agencies with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-challenging security landscape.

T.J. Clark International Demonstrates Commitment to Quality with ISO 9001 Certification

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

DELAWARE, Ohio, March 19, 2024 — T.J. Clark International LLC, a premier designer and manufacturer of expeditionary tactical fuel and water distribution systems for the U.S. Department of Defense and allied militaries, today announced that it has achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification – the globally recognized standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS)

ISO 9001 certification demonstrates T.J. Clark International’s commitment to consistent quality, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement. By implementing ISO 9001, the company has established an overarching framework to manage key quality processes including training, document control, internal auditing, and corrective action.

“Achieving ISO 9001 certification is a major milestone that reflects our dedication to quality, performance, and customer satisfaction. It provides a framework that engages all employees and partners in our quality mission,” stated Devan Ohst, Quality Director. “Achieving this certification underscores our dedication to delivering the highest quality products and services to our customers,” said Jake Jenkusky, Director of Business and Product Development.”

Key benefits of ISO 9001 Certification include:

• Improved consistency and control over operations and processes

• Enhanced customer confidence and satisfaction through robust quality assurance

• Increased efficiency and cost reduction through quality planning and assurance

• A culture of quality fostered across the entire organization

ISO 9001 certification applies to T.J. Clark International’s facilities and operations involved in the management and manufacturing of liquid storage and distribution systems and solutions. As an ISO-certified company, T.J. Clark International joins over 1 million organizations worldwide that have adopted the ISO quality framework.

For more information about T.J. Clark International LLC and its capabilities, visit tjclarkintl.com.

Chemring Group PLC Awarded c.£90m Funding Awards

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

Chemring notes the announcement made by the European Commission regarding its allocation of funding in support of boosting defence production within Europe, and we welcome its public announcement of awards totaling €66.7m (£57m) made to our Norwegian subsidiary, Chemring Nobel.

These awards, which are part of the Act in Support of Ammunition Production (“ASAP”) programme, are a direct response to the European Council’s call in March 2023 to urgently deliver ammunition, and missiles if requested, to Ukraine and to help Member States refill their stocks by introducing targeted measures. This Regulation aims to strengthen the responsiveness and ability of the European Union’s defence industry to ensure the timely supply of ammunition and missiles in Europe, and includes measures to support production capacities and tackle identified bottlenecks throughout the industrial supply chain.

Further information can be found on the European Commission website:defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-defence-industry/asap-boosting-defence-production_en

Chemring is also pleased to report that it has received further grant funding of 428 million NOK (£32m) from the Government of Norway. This co-financing will boost capacity and production at Chemring Nobel and will significantly strengthen Norwegian production capacity for critical defense products.

Further information can be found on the Norwegian government website:www.regjeringen.no/no/aktuelt/milliardstotte-til-norsk-forsvarsindustri/id3029866.

Grant agreements are expected to be signed over the coming months.

Both grants support Chemring’s decision to invest in doubling the capacity of this facility over the medium-term, and reinforces Chemring Nobel’s position as a key strategic supplier to NATO.

NATO Accelerator and Two Test Centres to be Established in Finland

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

NATO’s DIANA (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic) programme is expanding its network with new sites. Finland is now part of the network since the Board of the DIANA initiative approved a proposal to establish an accelerator and two test centres in Finland. Their mission is to help companies develop technology, innovation and business for the civil and defence sectors.

The preparatory work, which started in spring 2023, was led by the Ministry of Defence and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and required input from several operators, has reached its desired conclusion. VTT is setting up a DIANA accelerator in Otaniemi, Espoo, in collaboration with Aalto University and the University of Helsinki. The test centres will be established at the University of Oulu and VTT’s Otaniemi site.

The operations to be established in Finland will build on decades of strong technological expertise and market success. The technology themes of the accelerator and test centres are related to next-generation communication systems, 6G technology, cybersecurity, quantum and space technologies.

“VTT is honoured to be part of the DIANA network and its accelerator and test centre activities. Finland’s world-class expertise helps pioneering companies to develop the deep technologies that will safeguard NATO and its billion inhabitants,” says Sauli Eloranta, Vice President, Defence at VTT.

DIANA accelerator to train companies to operate in the defence sector

VTT is setting up a DIANA accelerator in Otaniemi, Espoo, in collaboration with Aalto University and the University of Helsinki, which will focus on the communication systems and quantum technologies of the future. This will provide a special training programme that will help companies develop deep technologies and innovations for commercial and defence purposes. It will also provide companies with extensive and varied training on how to develop business opportunities in the defence sector.

The accelerator’s services will be specifically targeted at start-ups and SMEs with limited experience in the defence and security sector.

“The long-awaited decision is significant for Finland as it is the first time that Finnish operators will be able to harness their cutting-edge expertise for NATO’s DIANA innovation activities on such a large scale. Our country has a large number of technologically advanced and innovative start-ups and SMEs, which have found it difficult to invest in export in the defence sector. DIANA will support this activity free of charge by using the accelerators to train companies in NATO technical and procurement requirements and by developing company-specific business training programmes. Such a mechanism provides a high-speed lane for companies to enter a difficult but fastest growing industry internationally – I hope Finnish companies will participate as widely as possible,” says Eloranta.

DIANA selects companies for accelerators through its application process. This procedure is called the DIANA challenge programme. The first round of applications for the Finnish DIANA accelerator will be launched in 2024, and it will be open to start-ups developing dual-use solutions in NATO countries.

Test centres provide tools for further technological development

The technology test centres will be established at VTT’s Otaniemi site and the University of Oulu. VTT’s Otaniemi Test Centre will focus on secure connectivity, space and quantum technologies. The test centre at the University of Oulu will offer companies the opportunity to test 6G network technologies.

DIANA test centres are places where companies can strengthen their technological expertise and competitiveness. The research infrastructure and experts provided by the test centres will allow companies to evaluate their own concepts and technologies and get support to develop them. In practice, the test centres will consist of a comprehensive set of existing research facilities and equipment, as well as top-level expertise in the sector. The centres will also support the development of start-ups participating in the accelerator programme.

It will be possible for all companies in NATO countries to purchase the test centre services, regardless of whether or not they belong to a DIANA accelerator.

“Finland has a strong position as a developer of civilian communications systems, thanks to companies like Nokia. DIANA offers a fast track for many companies to enter the NATO defence market,” says Eloranta.

What is NATO’s DIANA initiative?

NATO’s DIANA initiative aims to identify future challenges in the defence and security sector and work with companies to find technological solutions.

“Part of DIANA’s strength is our unique transatlantic network of talent centres and innovation leaders working toward a common purpose. The breadth and diversity of partners in DIANA’s network will accelerate the development and deployment of ground-breaking solutions for defence, security and peace,” says Professor Deeph Chana, Managing Director of DIANA.

The initiative focuses on new technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomy and quantum technologies, which are dual-use in nature, i.e. they can be commercially exploited in both the civil and defence sectors.

DIANA in brief

• NATO established DIANA to help develop dual-use technologies that meet security and defence challenges. DIANA supports companies working on solutions in key sectors identified by NATO member states.

• To meet the needs of a changing world, NATO is identifying, developing and deploying emerging and disruptive dual-use technologies.

• DIANA is NATO’s innovation accelerator, bringing together innovators from member states to support NATO’s technological leadership, defend its one billion citizens and maintain peace and security.

• DIANA provides companies with training, funding, commercial advice and access to defence expertise and investors. Participating companies are developing dual-use technologies to address major defence and resilience challenges.

MKS Instruments Introduces Ophir IR Optics Assembly, Support, and Services in India

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

Delhi, India – March 12, 2024 – MKS Instruments, Inc. (Nasdaq: MKSI), a global provider of technologies that transform our world, announced today new assembly, support, and service capabilities for Ophir® cutting-edge infrared (IR) optics products in India. These new capabilities align seamlessly with the Indian Government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ “Make in India” initiative, demonstrating MKS’ commitment to India’s national security industry. MKS will leverage its strong local presence in India by adding Ophir IR lens assembly, support and service capabilities to its existing Atotech facilities.

“The combination of Atotech India’s well-established operations, technical capabilities, and highly qualified team with Ophir’s innovative strength and industry-leading IR optical solutions will enable us to strengthen the longstanding relations we have with the Indian national security sector,” said Kobi Lasri, General Manager of Ophir Optics Group. “This partnership marks another significant milestone in our strategic vision to deepen our collaboration with the Government of India and bolster local assembly, support, and service capabilities, supporting the self-reliance vision of the Indian government. Through these new capabilities in India, MKS reaffirms its commitment and dedication to continuous improvement, seeking to deliver products with unparalleled performance, reliability, and local support for customers worldwide.”

Additional information can be found at www.mks.com

Safariland Partners with Noveske Rifleworks on Liberator HP Collab

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

JACKSONVILLE, Florida – Safariland®, a brand of The Safariland Group®, a leading global provider of safety products designed for the public safety, military, professional and outdoor markets and one of Cadre Holdings, Inc.’s (NYSE: CDRE) (“Cadre”) key brands, announces an exclusive collaboration with Noveske Rifleworks. Launching the Liberator® HP headset in Noveske’s signature N81 camo brings together two industry-leading brands, offering customers a limited-edition product that combines cutting-edge technology with a unique design.

Known for its exceptional quality and innovation, Noveske Rifleworks brings expertise and style to the table, elevating the Liberator HP look and feel. The N81 camo print, designed and cerakoted in-house by Noveske, is meticulously applied to the Liberator HP earcups, striking a perfect balance between visual appeal and high-performance functionality.

The Liberator HP headset represents the next generation in electronic hearing protection. Designed to withstand the rigors of any environment, this cutting-edge headset offers enhanced hearing protection, particularly in situations involving impulse gunfire noise and high-decibel, constant background audio. Wearers can rest assured knowing they are fully protected, while advanced sound localization technology allows for maximum situational awareness and sound detection.

“This Liberator HP exclusive marks the beginning of our collaboration with Noveske,” said Timothy Drnec, VP of Marketing for Safariland. “By combining our expertise in protective equipment with Noveske’s renowned craftsmanship, we are able to offer our customers a modern take on range gear.”

“Noveske is about building a community founded on the mutual respect of creating high quality product.  We’re thrilled to work alongside Safariland in producing a limited run of Liberator HPs as the start of a fun and collaborative partnership and we’re excited to see what comes next,” said Jeff Pool, President of Novekse Rifleworks.

With limited sets available, the Safariland Liberator HP exclusive edition with Noveske cerakote is one of this year’s hot ticket items for the range and shooting enthusiasts.

To learn more about this exciting new release and to explore Safariland’s extensive range of holsters and tactical accessories, visit Safariland.com.

Warrior Protection And Readiness Coalition Hosts Successful 2024 Legislative Sumit

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

Presents Sentinel Awards to U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) and U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) to Recognize Long Standing Support for the Defense Clothing and Equipment Industrial Base

MARBLEHEAD, MA (March 14, 2024) This past week, the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) hosted its 15th annual Legislative Summit in Washington D.C., bringing together 100 industry leaders of the domestic manufacturing companies who support the uniform and equipment needs of the warfighter. During this event, the WPRC announced that Senator John Boozman and U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) have been awarded the 2024 WPRC Sentinel Award. This accolade is in recognition of their outstanding legislative work to bolster the U.S. domestic defense industrial base, which plays a crucial role in supporting U.S. servicemembers and homeland security personnel. The Sentinel Award is annually bestowed upon members of Congress who have made significant efforts to ensure the Federal government has access to high-quality, American-made helmets, body armor, uniforms, footwear, and equipment, securing the best value for taxpayers.

“Through their committee leadership, Senator Boozman and Congressman Donald Norcross have demonstrated their unwavering support for the safety and combat effectiveness of American servicemembers,” said David Costello, Executive Director of the WPRC.  “Ensuring the strength and vitality of the Berry Amendment-compliant defense industrial base secures the domestic supply chain needed to provide the most effective protective clothing and equipment for warfighters and peacekeepers both at home and abroad. The WPRC is honored to recognize both Senator Boozman’s and Congressman Norcross’ commitment to this enduring effort.”

The 2024 Legislative Summit included a speaking program including U.S. Army Brigadier General Landis Maddox, Commander, DLA Troop Support; U.S.Army Colonel Tony Lindh, Project Manager, Soldier Survivability, Program Executive Office – Soldier; and representatives from the Center for Naval Analyses (CNA) who recently conducted a wargame scenario designed to better prepare and strengthen the clothing and textile industrial base. This was an opportunity for WPRC members to hear directly from Department of Defense (DoD) and executive leadership regarding the Administration’s domestic defense industrial base priorities. The WPRC continues to lead advocacy initiatives on Capitol Hill to ensure U.S. service members and Department of Homeland Security operational agencies are equipped appropriately to carry out their mission safely, with American-made gear and equipment.

This year’s WPRC legislative objectives include ongoing support for the U.S. Army’s Soldier Enhancement Program (SEP), support for Congress to require the annual update of the U.S. Army’s Rapid Fielding Initiative (RFI), and an effort to encourage Congressional support for a Defense Production Act Title III Presidential Determination for the warfighter clothing, textiles, and equipment industrial base.

About the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition and the Sentinel Award:

The WPRC Sentinel Award is the highest honor given by the coalition, awarded annually to lawmakers who have shown exceptional support for the American industry that produces advanced combat uniforms, footwear and equipment for the Armed Services and Department of Homeland Security. WPRC member companies strive every day to provide innovative, advanced solutions to ensure that our armed forces are prepared for any encounter, anywhere in the world.

Sentinel award recipient Senator John Boozman serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee. Additionally, Senator Boozman serves on the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission. Congressman Donald Norcross was selected by his peers to be Ranking Member for the House Armed Services Committee’s Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL) Subcommittee and serves on the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.


U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) accepts the 2024 Sentinel Award presented by WPRC Board Chairman Justin Mayer, Secretary Amy Coyne, and Executive Director David Costello


U.S. Senator John Boozman (AR) accepts the 2024 Sentinel Award presented by WPRC Board Member Markin Dornan (L) and Executive Director David Costello (R)


WPRC Sentinel award recipient, U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) addresses WPRC members


United States Army Colonel Tony Lindh, Project Manager, Soldier Survivability, Program Executive Office Soldier, addresses WPRC members


United States Army Brigadier General Landis Maddox, Commander, DLA Troop Support, addresses WPRC members

Light Hybrid Vehicles in the Portfolio: Rheinmetall Acquires Dutch Startup REEQ

Monday, March 18th, 2024

Rheinmetall has acquired the Dutch startup REEQ, thereby expanding its vehicle portfolio to include innovative light hybrid vehicles. At the beginning of March 2024, the technology group’s Dutch subsidiary Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V., which is part of the Vehicle Systems Division, acquired 100% of the shares in the Dutch start-up REEQ. Rheinmetall is thus expanding its portfolio of lightweight tactical vehicles and also taking the step towards hybrid technology with a fully electric drivetrain in a military vehicle. Both parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

With its vehicles, REEQ has developed a new generation of mobility that combines tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid) and is fully prepared for autonomy. The technology was developed and is produced in the Netherlands.

Currently, REEQ’s vehicle portfolio consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad, all three with exactly the same fully electric drive train. Through the acquisition of REEQ, Rheinmetall is able to serve the Dutch and European market in the field of light tactical mobility, both manned and unmanned, in combination with a microgrid solution. Rheinmetall’s industrial strength and the innovative power of a start-up complement each other. Within the Rheinmetall Group, REEQ retains its status as a start-up in the field of development. The further development and series production of these vehicles will also take place in the Netherlands.

With this acquisition Rheinmetall is responding to the many calls from Dutch politicians and defense leaders to contribute with industrial strength and specialization to the operational user and strengthening of the defense industry. With the development and production from the Netherlands, the strategic autonomy and the Dutch position in the field of military electrification and autonomy in the international defense industry has also been strengthened.

Located in the city of Ede, Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. is part of the Vehicle Systems Division and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH. Rheinmetall AG is one of the world’s leading technology enterprises.

REEQ is a Dutch start-up and has been in existence since 2018. In that year REEQ carried out a first innovation project regarding electromobility in the military sector on behalf of the Dutch Ministry of Defence. In later years, REEQ has developed further in this field of experience.