Aquaterro

Happy Veterans Day

November 11th, 2025

I’d like to offer a heartfelt thank you to my fellow Veterans on this annual celebration of our service to this great nation! We have protected this land longer than it has been an independent country.

The American Legion has collated a list of companies honoring our Veterans. Enjoy your day!

www.legion.org/information-center/news/veterans-day/2025/november/2025-veterans-day-deals-and-discounts

Systems Engineering Earns CMMC Level 2 Certification with Perfect Score, Demonstrating Operational Cybersecurity Excellence

November 10th, 2025

The company’s 110/110 assessment score confirms the maturity, rigor, and real-world readiness of its program to meet DoD standards and protect sensitive information.

PORTLAND, Maine, Nov. 6, 2025 — Systems Engineering, a leading Managed Service Provider (MSP) and Registered Practitioner Organization (RPO) serving highly regulated industries, announced today that it has successfully achieved Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2 with a perfect score of 110. This milestone confirms its managed services, engineering capabilities, technology platforms, and advisory offerings meet the rigorous cybersecurity requirements established by the U.S. Department of Defense.

“Achieving CMMC certification is significant, but receiving a perfect 110 out of 110 assessment score with no deficiencies highlights the maturity and rigor of our information security program,” said Erik Thomas, Director of Advisory Services at Systems Engineering. “This isn’t theory-it’s operational proof that we walk the walk when it comes to cybersecurity maturity.”

The certification was attained for Systems Engineering’s secure enclave environment, where its own Managed Services were deployed and operated just as they are for its clients’ computing systems. Achieving CMMC Level 2 certification validates our ability to protect sensitive data, including Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), demonstrates the strength and compliance of Systems Engineering’s Managed Services offerings, enforces a compliant vendor ecosystem, and further enhances the capability of SE’s consulting practice.

What This Means for Clients

Proven Compliance Maturity: Systems Engineering clients can trust that its managed service offerings and engineering solutions stand up to one of the most demanding cybersecurity frameworks in the nation.

Enhanced Advisory Credibility: Unlike firms that only advise, Systems Engineering has gone through the entire CMMC certification process. This hands-on experience equips the team to offer practical, tested guidance to clients preparing for their own assessments.

A Trusted Vendor Ecosystem: The certification reinforces that Systems Engineering’s technology stack and vendor partners are thoroughly vetted and aligned with the CMMC framework.

A Proven Partner for CMMC Readiness and Beyond

As CMMC requirements begin to appear in defense contracts starting in November 2025, Systems Engineering is actively supporting defense contractors and subcontractors through every stage of their compliance journey. Our CMMC Services include CUI network scoping, gap analysis, remediation, program documentation, and long-term compliance program management. These services, when coupled with our managed IT operational services and cybersecurity services, position our clients for successful Assessments and beyond.

“Our clients demand more than checklists. They need end-to-end solutions that are field-tested and future-ready,” added Kent Goodrow, Chief Information Security Officer at Systems Engineering. “This certification gives us even more credibility to guide them forward with confidence.”

DroneShield Names US Advisory Board

November 10th, 2025
  • DroneShield brings together leading U.S. military and national security experts to support continued expansion across U.S. and allied markets 
  • The Advisory Board strengthens strategic engagement with government and industry partners 

Sydney, Australia – Warrenton, Viriginia – 7 November, 2025– DroneShield, a global leader in advanced counter-drone technology, is pleased to announce the establishment of its U.S. Advisory Board, comprising senior military and national security leaders with extensive operational and industry expertise.&

The Advisory Board will support DroneShield’s expanding U.S. operations, providing strategic guidance on growth, policy engagement, and technology adoption within military, intelligence, and critical infrastructure sectors.

General Mark D. Kelly (Ret.), U.S. Air Force 

General Kelly completed a 38-year career in the United States Air Force, most recently serving as Commander, Air Combat Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, where he led and prepared combat-ready air, space, cyber, and intelligence forces for global operations. His distinguished career includes previous roles as Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Headquarters U.S. Air Force at the Pentagon, and as Commander of both 9th and 12th Air Forces. A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Fighter Weapons School and the National War College, General Kelly is a command pilot with over 6,000 flight hours, including 800 combat hours in fighter aircraft.

Brigadier General Gwyn Armfield (Ret.), U.S. Air Force

Brigadier General Armfield recently completed nearly three decades of service in the U.S. Air Force. He is the founder of RGA Consulting Group, advising clients in leadership, risk management, and technology development. His military career included roles as Vice Director for Strategy and Plans at U.S. Central Command and Deputy Commanding General for U.S. and Coalition Special Operations Forces in Afghanistan. A former National Security Fellow at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, he was also Chief of Strategy for U.S. European Command and recipient of the Air Force’s Lance Sijan Leadership Award for his actions in Afghanistan.

Lt. Jay Humphlett (Ret.), U.S. Navy  

A business transformation and military industry leader, Jay Humphlett has driven high-impact strategic capture initiatives at Raytheon and Dataminr. A former U.S. Navy F-14 Tomcat Radar Intercept Officer and TOPGUN graduate, he has held senior executive roles across venture capital, military, and intelligence-driven technology sectors. His experience spans a variety of markets and business models to include SaaS, AI, PAI/OSINT, Special Mission Aviation, hardware, systems integration, and services. His career includes leadership positions as President of a special mission aviation firm and CEO of a global health protection company.

Anthony P. Reardon (Ret.), U.S. Air Force 

Anthony Reardon served as Administrative Assistant to the Secretary of the Air Force, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Arlington, Virginia, as a member of the Senior Executive Service prior to his retirement. As the Air Force’s senior career civilian advisor to the Secretary, he oversaw a $5.6 billion annual portfolio and more than 37,000 personnel, implementing Secretariat policies, goals, and objectives. Earlier in his career, Mr. Reardon held senior roles including Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Requirements; Director of Policy, Plans, and Strategy for Air Force International Affairs; and Deputy Director of Legislative Liaison. A former active-duty Air Force Weapons Systems Officer, fling the RF-4C and held staff positions across multiple commands, accruing over 1,900 flight hours.

DroneShield continues to expand its U.S. footprint across government and commercial markets, with growing demand for its AI-enabled counter-UAS, electronic warfare, and threat-detection solutions.

“The formation of our U.S. Advisory Board marks another milestone in DroneShield’s growth trajectory. Each member brings unique insight from decades of leadership across military operations, military technology, and national security. Their collective experience will strengthen DroneShield’s ability to support U.S. and allied partners in addressing the evolving drone threat environment,” said Oleg Vornik, CEO, DroneShield. 

ARK Protection Group Partners with HOP Munitions as Official Ammunition Provider

November 10th, 2025

Haysville, OHHOP Munitions, a veteran-operated ammunition manufacturer based in Ohio, is proud to announce its new partnership with ARK Protection Group, a premier security and executive protection firm. Through this partnership, HOP Munitions will serve as ARK’s official ammunition provider for both training and operational requirements.

Several key factors contributed to this collaboration, including the close geographic proximity of the two companies, HOP Munitions’ proven record of producing high-quality, consistent ammunition, and a shared mission to support and equip law enforcement and security professionals with the necessary tools to protect and serve.

“Partnering with ARK Protection Group aligns perfectly with our mission of supporting those serving in the line of duty,” said Tyler, Operations Manager of HOP Munitions. “Their professionalism and dedication to training & protecting mirror our own commitment to quality and performance in every round we produce.”

ARK Protection Group, founded by Ron Gazboda, a former U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant with extensive operational and training experience, provides executive protection, estate security, event security, tactical training, and armored vehicle solutions to clients worldwide. Leveraging decades of combined military and private security experience, ARK delivers a comprehensive range of protective services. The company’s agents are trained to manage complex, high-threat environments with discretion and effectiveness.

“This partnership demonstrates both companies’ pledge to support law enforcement and security professionals with reliable equipment, standardized training procedures, and optimal performance.”

– Ron Gazboda

This partnership reflects both companies’ commitment to supporting law enforcement and security professionals with reliable tools, proven training standards, and real-world performance.

 

Luminae Starlink Scrim Cover

November 10th, 2025

Made from IRR compliant Multicam fabric, Luminae’s scrim cover breaks up the unit’s outline and helps it blend naturally into surrounding vegetation or terrain. Whether viewed from the ground or through the low-resolution feed of a FPV or reconnaissance drone, the Starlink becomes far less visible than if it were uncovered.

Lightweight and compact, the cover can be packed into a Utility or Small GP Pouch and deployed in seconds when needed.

Despite its low-profile concealment, the cover allows the Starlink to function as normal, maintaining full connectivity while reducing the risk of visual detection.

Compatible with all Starlink models, including:

  • Starlink Standard
  • Starlink High Performance
  • Starlink Maritime / Mobility
  • Starlink Roam
  • Starlink v2 Mini

www.luminae.co.uk/Shop/Luminae-Starlink-Scrim-Cover

Beez Combat Systems LMH (Lightweight Mesh Hoodie)

November 10th, 2025

The LMH (Lightweight Mesh Hoodie) is purpose-built to deliver protection, breathability, and modular adaptability in the harshest environments.The LMH provides full UV protection and a bug barrier while maintaining maximum airflow.

Constructed from 100% Omega 250D breathable knit-mesh, this garment offers rugged durability without the weight or heat retention of traditional outerwear. The adjustable hood, wrists and waist utilize bungee cord systems that are fully field-replaceable through our hem/casing design, ensuring long-term serviceability in any condition.

Engineered for operation integration, the kangaroo pocket is positioned to avoid interference with plate carriers, chest rigs, and belts, providing essential utility without bulk. The helmet-compatible hood was developed to accommodate a tactical helmet or be worn comfortably without one, giving the user flexibility across mission sets and climates.

For additional information and availability –  Beez Combat Systems

I Never Promised You A Rose Garden

November 10th, 2025

I remember seeing this Marine recruiting commercial as a kid and it’s always stuck with me. For 250 the US Marine Corps has challenged young people to serve their country and both nation and Marine have benefitted from it.

Happy Birthday Marines! Here’s to 250 more!

Darley Named Chicagoland Top Workplace by Chicago Tribune

November 9th, 2025

ITASCA, IL – November 7, 2025 – Darley, a leading provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment, is proud to announce it has been named as a 2025 Chicagoland Top Workplace by the Chicago Tribune.

To earn this recognition, the Chicago Tribune partners with Energage LLC, a third-party employee engagement technology firm, to conduct confidential surveys that capture authentic employee feedback. The survey uniquely measures various aspects of the employee experience, including how employees feel respected & supported, enabled to grow, and empowered to execute.

“Being named a Chicagoland Top Workplace by the Chicago Tribune is a tremendous honor because it reflects the voices of our employees,” comments Paul Darley, President & CEO of Darley. “At Darley, we strive to foster a culture where every team member feels valued, supported, and empowered to grow. This recognition affirms that our people-first approach is making a meaningful

Learn more on our websites: www.darley.com and shop.darley.com.