Troop Performance

Balikatan 2026: 5th Battalion, 3rd Artillery Regiment, 7th Infantry Division Conducts HIRAIN Live-Fire Iteration

May 4th, 2026

PALAWAN, Philippines– Soldiers from the 5th Battalion, 3rd Artillery Regiment, 7th Infantry Division (Multi-Domain Command-Pacific) conducted a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System live-fire iteration on April 27, 2026, in Palawan, Philippines. Conducted in coordination with U.S. Marines, Philippine marines and Australian soldiers, this event was part of a counter landing live fire exercise designed to repel a simulated enemy landing force across multipleranges, from deep-water approaches to shallow littorals, in defense of the island. The HIMARS maneuvered onto the beach from a concealed position and launched four Reduced Range Practice Rockets, effectively demonstrating the system’s mobility and precision. Thepractice and preparation by Alpha battery soldiers resulted in an exceptionally fluid and rapidly executed fire mission.

“Today what we demonstrated was the absolute power that the land component brings to the fightin the pacific.” Said Lt. Col. Alexander Mullin, commander of the 5th Battalion, 3rd ArtilleryRegiment. ”Huge gains were made with the interoperability between the nations’ forces, communication and coordination of multiple fires were on full display during the exercise.” Mullin stated, “through being here we are demonstrating the cross-domain contact layer concept, which is our ability to provide a covering force in the pacific and achieve decisive effects.” The Cross-Domain Contact Layer is not merely a system or standalone capability; rather, it serves as a framework for synchronizing legacy, exquisite and emerging capabilities. It integrates sensing,effects, and artificial intelligence-enabled command and control into a persistent, all-domain architecture that maintains continuous contact from the operational deep area to the close fight.

Positioning HIMARS for these exercises is a formidable logistical undertaking. Meticulous attention is required to adhere to host nation regulations during road movements, necessitatingacute situational awareness of local infrastructure, including small bridges and low-hanging power lines. Upon departing paved routes, the HIMARS navigates unforgiving jungle environments, mountainous terrain, and sandy littoral zones. Throughout this process, all logistics are closely coordinated in partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“All the live fires that we have done could not have been done without the support of the Philippine marines and the Philippine Army as we make our movements across the country,” said 1st Sgt. Shawn Washburn, Alpha Battery, 5th Battalion, 3rd Artillery Regiment, 7th Infantry Division.

The environment challenges soldiers to operate beyond their comfort zones of typical home station training, acclimating them to the rigorous conditions they may encounter in future conflicts. Furthermore, the tropical climate provides invaluable opportunities for personnel to adapt and endure weather challenges while sustaining operations in an austere environment and maintaining physical readiness.

Story by SSG Brandon Rickert 

7th Infantry Division

Posted in Army, Fires, Guest Post | No Comments »

Elite Army Engineers Leverage ENFIRE at Best Sapper Competition

May 3rd, 2026

The annual Best Sapper Competition gathers the U.S. Army’s elite engineers to compete in tests of skill, endurance, and creativity in leveraging advanced technologies.

That’s why the Army’s ENFIRE reconnaissance system played a role in this year’s competition held at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., from April 20 to 23.

Cory Baron, who manages Product Director Combat Terrain Information Systems (PD CTIS) which fields ENFIRE, explained why the system was included in the competition for the third year in a row.

“Being invited to participate in the Best Sapper competition is an incredible honor,” said Baron. “To be asked to come back again and again is a testament to the work the team has done to advance these capabilities and continue to shape the future of the program.”

The Instrument Set, Reconnaissance and Surveying (Common name: ENFIRE) supports Soldiers by expediting deliberate route, area and zone reconnaissance, route clearance, hazard identification, inventory, and construction management efforts through the integration of digital tools into a single platform.

The Best Sapper Competition began in 2005 and is hosted by the U.S. Army Engineer School. Competition officials say Best Sapper not only proves the best engineering team but aims to “challenge and test the service members’ knowledge, physical prowess and mental fortitude.”

Ahead of the competition, PD CTIS engineers planned the ENFIRE lane, which recons would be conducted, and how to best utilize system software and hardware. The team then participates in a full dress rehearsal to ensure ENFIRE competition parameters are feasible and responds to questions from senior leadership. PD CTIS does not play a role in evaluating competitors but remains on site throughout the event for technical support if needed.

PD CTIS leverages events like the Best Sapper Competition to evaluate capabilities in a high paced and highly dynamic environment, putting ENFIRE through its paces in unprecedented ways.

“Supporting and observing in real-time, our systems being used to answer complex engineer challenges, is an incredible opportunity to receive critical feedback that help us in the program office shape future iterations of the tools to maximize utility of system,” Baron said.

ENFIRE demonstrated ease of use for the engineers with almost no training provided by PD CTIS staff. Competitors tested new ENFIRE and ENFIRE Dismounted functionality at a strenuous level, proving reliability in a high-pressure environment.

While the competition provided engineers an opportunity to prove their skills on ENFIRE it also provided PD CTIS an opportunity to improve the system, currently in its 12th iteration. During the competition the team identified minor software issues that will be addressed with planned fieldings in 2027 and 2028.

“The insights the team receive through facilitating and observing competitors is priceless,” Baron said. “Observing the system function in an extreme environment to support engineer mission tasks at speed is a critical factor in the evolution of the kit as we continuously modernize these capabilities.”

By M. Scott Bortot

Posted in Army, Guest Post | No Comments »

Gatorz Eyewear X Navy SEAL Foundation SENTIX

May 3rd, 2026

The GATORZ x Navy SEAL Foundation Sentix brings together American crafted durability and a mission that extends beyond the frame.

Built from aircraft grade aluminum and paired with TruRay Smoke Polarized lenses, each pair delivers the clarity and strength required in high performance environments. Custom Navy SEAL Foundation and THAT WARRIOR engravings reflect a mindset defined by resilience, discipline, and commitment.

A portion of proceeds from every purchase supports the Navy SEAL Foundation and its work providing critical care for warriors, veterans, and their families.

Get yours at www.gatorz.com/products/navy-seal-foundation-x-sentix.

Posted in Eyepro, Guest Post, Navy, Nonprofit, SOF | No Comments »

Air Force Special Warfare Employs Kinetic Interceptor in Counter-UAS Proof of Concept

May 3rd, 2026

DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. —  

Air Force Special Warfare Airmen from the 48th Rescue Squadron, 7th Air Support Operations Squadron, and 316th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal conducted a proof-of-concept event on April 7, 2026. The event integrated a commercial off-the-shelf kinetic interceptor with an expeditionary counter-small unmanned aircraft system (C-sUAS) to address critical capability gaps for small teams operating “outside the wire.”

The demonstration took place at the Arizona Army National Guard Florence Military Reservation in Arizona. As adversaries increasingly employ low-cost, one-way attack drones, smaller, forward-deployed teams face growing risks without access to traditional, fixed-site air defense. This event focused on developing a lightweight, deployable capability to detect, track, and defeat Group 1–3 small unmanned aerial systems in austere environments.

The unit executed a layered approach to C-sUAS operations, integrating low-cost interceptor technology with expeditionary sensing and command-and-control systems. Through this proof-of-concept event, the Arizona Army National Guard, the Southwest Mission Acceleration Center, and multiple industry partners integrated detection tools, command-and-control systems, and various target aircraft.

During the event, AFSW Airmen executed four core functions: detect, assess, command and control, and defeat. The objective was to evaluate the ability to detect an enemy unmanned aircraft and provide tracking data through a common operating picture. The system then cued the interceptor to launch, track, and engage a UAS target, demonstrating a sensor-to-shooter kill chain at an operationally relevant cost.

“We are evaluating a range of layered detection and defeat capabilities,” said an AFSW Airman assigned to the 355th Wing. “By employing diverse target profiles, from fixed-wing systems to quadcopters across the Group 1-3 range, we can assess how, when, and where our C-sUAS systems are most effective. Our objective is a man-portable capability with a high degree of autonomy that can operate with minimal infrastructure while remaining fully interoperable within a broader C-sUAS architecture.”

The training highlighted the squadron’s continued evolution beyond its traditional rescue mission, expanding into offensive and defensive small UAS employment in contested environments.

“From a force protection and mission execution standpoint, each layer addresses different threats across varying distances,” the AFSW Airman said. “This approach adapts against near-peer threats while maintaining the cost-effective countermeasures required in modern conflict.”

This effort represents a significant step toward operationalizing expeditionary C-sUAS capabilities by integrating industry-developed and organically produced systems, with a continued focus on rapidly equipping the warfighter in forward environments.

By Senior Airman Jasmyne Bridgers-Matos

355th Wing

Posted in Air Force, C-UAS, Guest Post | No Comments »

NEMO Partners with Storm Care Solutions as Exclusive US Distributor

May 2nd, 2026

High-performance gear care products support NEMO’s Adventure Forever® mission to extend product life and reduce waste.

{Dover, NH — April 27, 2026} — NEMO Equipment has partnered with U.K.-based Storm Care Solutions, LTD to serve as the exclusive U.S. distributor of the brand’s line of outdoor gear care products. For NEMO, whose Adventure Forever® mission includes extending the life of outdoor gear, offering rigorously tested, high-performing cleaning and waterproofing solutions is a natural extension of the company’s commitment to keeping gear on the trail and out of the landfill.

Well-maintained gear lasts longer and performs better. By distributing STORM through its retail partners and direct channels, NEMO gives customers access to care products that meet strict environmental and performance standards, helping gear reach its full potential season after season. NEMO will assort a full line of aftercare products for outdoor gear, apparel, and footwear, and retail partners can add STORM products to their Spring 2027 pre-season orders for delivery in January 2027.

“This partnership was built through shared values,” said Mike Welch, NEMO’s Senior VP of Sales & Marketing. “STORM, like NEMO, is driven by constant innovation and a deep commitment to sustainability, evidenced by their PFAS-free products, bluesign® partnership, and recycled/recyclable aluminum packaging. We’re excited to offer our retail partners a complementary, high-performing aftercare solution.”

Performance Grounded in Science

Developed and manufactured in England, STORM products undergo internal and independent testing to verify unrivalled PFAS-free performance. The brand’s unique chemistry enables its technical cleaners and waterproofers to work in a single wash cycle, saving time, water, and energy, a first in the industry. New for 2027, STORM is offering a range of super concentrated washes and waterproofers that provide more washes per bottle, reducing cost per wash, waste, water and weight while delivering a superior performing product.

Sustainable From Start to Finish

All STORM products are packaged in 100% recycled aluminum bottles and cardboard, offering an elevated shelf appeal and easy recyclability. PFAS-free since day one and bluesign® approved, the cleaners are odorless and free from optical brighteners. Perfectly pH balanced to clean natural or technical synthetic fabrics without damaging the manufacturers original DWR treatment, STORM’s patented wash-in proofing products also provide an abrasion resistant finish, extending the life of gear and apparel.

“In our search for a partner to lead the distribution of STORM in the U.S., we not only wanted a business who could scale the brand, but one who valued product integrity and performance, customer care, and family values. We feel NEMO meets and exceeds all of these aspects, along with providing professionalism and personal attention,” said Tim Wilson, STORM founder.

Extending NEMO’s Commitment to Gear Longevity

NEMO designs products that are built to last, easy to repair, and, for the Endless Promise® collection, fully recyclable. The company offers repair services, access to a resale platform for gently used equipment, and transparent sustainability reporting. Adding STORM to its line ensures customers have access to care products that align with NEMO’s values and help gear perform at its best for as long as possible.

STORM is already used and trusted by leading outdoor brands including Patagonia, L.L.Bean, and Ariat.

Posted in Industry, Materials, Press Release | No Comments »

SIG SAUER Introduces New SIG CONNECT App Features

May 2nd, 2026

Users can now create challenges directly within their favorite SIG CONNECT games.

NEWINGTON, N.H., (April 28, 2026) – SIG SAUER, an industry-leading manufacturer of cutting-edge firearms, optics, and ammunition, introduced today new features in its SIG CONNECT app. SIG CONNECT is a mobile training tool that turns shooting sessions at a range into interactive experiences with real-time hit detection.

Through the new features, SIG CONNECT users can create custom challenges directly within their favorite games or jump into existing competitions. Users can choose their game type, set the distance, and select the Optical Hit Detection (OHD) target, then define rules, including time limits, scoring zones, and attempts.

Additionally, users can name their challenge, set an end date, and share it with their friends or the broader SIG CONNECT community. Every run is tracked, scored, and ranked in real time, allowing users to battle for the top spot on the leaderboard. Altogether, the new features open up opportunities for ranges to host challenges and events, from start to finish through the SIG CONNECT app.

“At SIG SAUER, we’re leveling up our game development for our growing SIG CONNECT community who use our app to train and refine their skills or just for fun. These new features create even more engaging experiences for users to shoot with their friends and the broader community and to reinforce safe handling and shooting,” said Phil Strader, Vice President of Consumer Affairs, SIG SAUER.  

Key takeaways:

Optical Hit Detection

The SIG SAUER OHD instantly tracks a user’s shots, giving immediate feedback on accuracy and performance.

Games and Drills

Users can run structured drills or compete in skill-based games, with real-time feedback that breaks down every shot and helps accelerate improvement.

Download the SIG CONNECT App

Join a fast-growing community by downloading the SIG CONNECT app, available at the App Store and Google Play, to begin your training, create a multi-player group with your friends, or join a public community to compete.

For more information on SIG SAUER, please visit sigsauer.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Firearms, Press Release, Shooting Sports, Training | No Comments »

Department of War Overhauls Acquisition to Speed New Technology to Troops – The Enablers are Here

May 2nd, 2026

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, MD – In a decisive move to maintain military superiority, the Secretary of War directed a fundamental transformation of the department’s acquisition process. This mandate requires a new approach to deliver critical capabilities to troops in the field with greater speed and urgency. The new paradigm needs enablers that mitigate risks in equipment programs, particularly in system reliability and long-term sustainment—factors that account for up to 70 percent of a weapon system’s total cost. As organizations accelerate timelines and reduce full-up system testing programs, they must adopt approaches that ensure system robustness and mitigate risk. The following menu of options provides program managers, acquisition personnel, and sustainment professionals with the tools they need today.

Early Engineering Component Analysis

Engineers perform rapid analysis for individual components long before a full system reaches large-scale operational tests. By using advanced simulators and lab environments, engineers find and fix potential failure points early in the design process when they can make modifications most simply and inexpensively. This proactive approach streamlines final system-level testing, saving both time and resources and is applicable to both Commercial-Off-The-Shelf systems/components and developmental items.

Modeling and Simulation

Modeling and Simulation (M&S) serves as one of the most powerful and inexpensive tools for accelerating development. Digital testing—covering everything from vehicle dynamics to the thermal performance of electronics—allows for the rapid exploration of designs before manufacturers build a physical part. In one instance, M&S predicted that a circuit card’s original design would lead to over 300 component failures. A simple, validated redesign reduced displacement by approximately 80 percent, avoiding a costly delay.

Scorecards and Engineering Reviews

The Transformation Decision Analysis Center (TDAC) developed reliability scorecards for weapon systems and artificial intelligence applications based on leading practices from industry, government, and academia. These scorecards, along with early engineering reviews, provide substantial risk mitigation—even for commercial off-the-shelf systems—by using existing information to identify challenges before they emerge.

Leveraging All Data Sources

To make the most informed decisions, programs must leverage all available data. By using Bayesian-based statistical approaches, organizations create a more complete picture of system performance and potentially reduce the need for physical testing by 60 percent or more.

Mastering Modern Complexity

Today’s military systems increasingly feature complex, software-intensive designs. Systems-Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA), a modern hazard analysis technique from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, analyzes these systems effectively. It identifies risks that emerge from the complex interactions between components, rather than just individual failures—a crucial step for developing robust autonomous and AI-enabled platforms.

Function-Based Reliability

Ultimately, mission performance dominates. A function-based assessment places test results into an operational context. This approach prioritizes risk mitigation by connecting system performance directly to the essential tasks soldiers perform, ensuring development always focuses on what matters most for mission success.

Fielding at the Speed of Relevance

The transformation of the acquisition system serves as an urgent and necessary step to equip U.S. forces for the future. This mandate does not call for cutting corners; rather, it requires us to be smarter and more proactive. By embracing these risk-reduction strategies, we empower the acquisition workforce to manage risk intelligently and deliver superior capabilities to the warfighter with speed and relevance. To meet the department’s objectives, TDAC continues to provide proven methods to minimize reliability, acquisition, and sustainment risks alongside partners such as the Army Test and Evaluation Command and various Army DEVCOM centers.

By David Mortin, Ph.D.

Posted in Acquisition, Army, Guest Post | No Comments »

G3 Systems Celebrates 25 years of Infrastructure Support to Austere Overseas Environments

May 1st, 2026

This April, G3 Systems reaches its 25th Anniversary of delivering operationally proven expertise in the design and delivery of deployable and fixed infrastructure solutions to austere overseas environments, a significant milestone for the company. This achievement, combined with just completing 4 years of diverse infrastructure support to the South Atlantic Permanent Joint Operating Bases (PJOBs) adds yet another chapter to the G3 Systems’ story.

G3 Systems has a long and distinguished history of providing excellent infrastructure support, project management and facilities management to UK & NATO forces and government departments, deployed in austere and high-risk operations around the world. From providing the fire-fighting services for all the international airfields of Afghanistan (Kabul, Herat, Mazar-e-Sharif and Kandahar), to constructing and operating complex technical facilities and infrastructure globally. This includes hospitals, power generation and distribution, Command and Control facilities and workshops, along with a full range of deployable infrastructure capabilities. G3 Systems has a mission-focused attitude which mirrors that of the deployed forces they support, delivering high-quality outcomes on time and to budget.

For the last 3 years, G3 Systems has been deployed in the South Atlantic as a sub-contractor to the Permanent Joint Operating Base (PJOB) prime to enhance the Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (RFFS) on Ascension Island and for the last 4 years, led on a significant schedule of diverse infrastructure upgrade work at Mount Pleasant Complex (MPC) in the Falkland Islands. These projects were vital to ensure that technical and non-technical infrastructure and facilities are fully compliant with modern legislation, safe and upgraded to be fit for purpose without impacting operations. Over this period, G3 Systems has completed over 230 projects at MPC and consistently provided high-quality RFFS services on a 24/7 365 basis to help protect Ascension Island, a key UK strategic asset.

Nick Rose, Managing Director of G3 Systems said, “As we reflect on over 25 years of G3 Systems history and direct support to the British military deployed overseas on operations, from Iraq and Afghanistan in the early 2000’s, through to today in the South Atlantic, I am immensely proud of what the teams have achieved in the most remote and often demanding of conditions. We currently have complex infrastructure projects and facility support contracts running all over the world in support of the FCDO and British military. With the backing of our parent company Intrepid, who are also experts in supporting facilities and providing professional services for the US military, we have the scale and reach to reinforce globally as needed, and therefore G3 Systems is fully prepared to take on a more strategic role in supporting overseas operating bases, in the future.”

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

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