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EOTECH Defense Welcomes Industry Veterans Mike Evans and Michalis Kolotos

November 12th, 2026

Clawson, MI (November 2026) — EOTECH Defense announces the appointments of Mike Evans as Director of Wearable Devices and Michalis Kolotos as Vice President of International Business Development. Both bring extensive defense industry experience, deep subject matter expertise, and established relationships that will support the company’s growth and customer mission requirements.

“We’re excited to welcome Mike and Michalis to EOTECH Defense—two industry veterans with incredible talent in their respective fields,” said Tom Hadt, Chief Revenue Officer of EOTECH Defense. “Their operational insight, technical market knowledge, and understanding of the defense community will strengthen our team and our ability to serve customers around the world.”

Evans brings more than 30 years of military leadership and defense industry experience. A retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major with 31 years of service, he previously served as Vice President at Revision Military and Executive Vice President of Defense and Federal Solutions at Noble Supply & Logistics. His background combines firsthand operational experience with senior leadership in strategic business development across defense and federal markets. Over the course of his career, Evans has built high-performing teams, developed strategic partnerships, and driven significant business growth. Most recently, he led defense and federal initiatives contributing to more than $1.4 billion in business opportunities and a multibillion-dollar pipeline. At EOTECH Defense, he will apply his operational knowledge and industry relationships to expand the company’s wearable technology portfolio, strengthen partnerships, and accelerate growth in defense and commercial markets.

Kolotos brings more than a decade of specialized experience in the night vision and thermal imaging sectors, with expertise in international market expansion, strategic capture, and local defense procurement requirements. Before joining EOTECH Defense, he spent 10 years at THEON, where he developed high-level partnerships and secured complex, long-cycle business across the Five Eyes countries and other global markets.  His subject matter expertise includes navigating geopolitical and commercial risks, managing international supply chains, and executing strategic cross-border transactions. As Vice President of International Business Development, Kolotos will lead EOTECH Defense’s international growth strategy, market expansion, and customer and partnership development across military and government channels. He will focus on building relationships with defense customers, strategic partners, and regional integrators while aligning the company’s capabilities with operational requirements worldwide.

Together, these appointments strengthen EOTECH Defense’s ability to connect customer needs with product capabilities and pursue growth across domestic and international markets.

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on EOTECH Defense Welcomes Industry Veterans Mike Evans and Michalis Kolotos

Advanced Armament Company Announces Return of the MPW Platform

November 12th, 2026

ADVANCED ARMAMENT COMPANY ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF THE MPW WITH AN EXPANDED LINEUP OF COMPLETE FIREARMS AND UPPER ASSEMBLIES

The modernized MPW lineup brings AAC’s suppressor heritage to complete pistols, rifles, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), and upper assemblies across multiple barrel configurations in .300 AAC Blackout and 5.56 NATO.

West Columbia, SC — Advanced Armament Company (AAC), a recognized name in firearm suppressor technology, announces the launch of its next-generation MPW (Multi-Purpose Weapon) platform, introducing a modernized lineup of complete pistols, rifles, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), and upper assemblies of complete firearms and upper assemblies designed around AAC’s longstanding philosophy of treating the firearm and suppressor as a complete system.

Long before suppressor-ready firearms became an industry trend, AAC was developing platforms with suppressed shooting in mind. The original MPW represented that approach, bringing together AAC’s experience in suppressor development and firearm design. Now, the MPW returns with updated components, modern manufacturing processes, and a lineup built to offer shooters greater flexibility in caliber and barrel length.

A LEGACY BUILT AROUND SUPPRESSION

The MPW is more than the return of a familiar name. It represents AAC’s continued commitment to developing firearms that complement the company’s suppressor technology.

At the center of the new MPW platform is AAC’s approach to suppressor compatibility. The lineup features the AAC BLACKOUT flash hider, connecting the firearm platform to AAC’s modern suppressor mounting ecosystem.

With AAC’s expanding suppressor lineup, including the M4-2000, 762-SDN-6, and 300-SD, the MPW family reinforces the company’s focus on developing both sides of the suppressed shooting experience.

Rather than treating a suppressor as an afterthought, AAC has carried its system-focused design philosophy into the development of the modern MPW.

MULTIPLE CONFIGURATIONS. ONE MPW FAMILY.

The new MPW family is launching in complete pistol, rifle, short-barreled rifle (SBR), and complete upper assembly configurations. With multiple barrel lengths in .300 AAC Blackout and 5.56 NATO, the lineup offers customers a range of options built around AAC’s system-focused approach to firearms and suppressors.

• 9-inch .300 AAC Blackout MPW: A compact configuration rooted in AAC’s history with the .300 Blackout cartridge and developed with suppressed shooting as a central design consideration.

• 10.3-inch 5.56 NATO MPW: The shortest 5.56 configuration in the family, offering a compact platform while maintaining the modern MPW design.

• 12.5-inch 5.56 NATO MPW: An additional barrel-length option that expands the versatility of the MPW family.

• 14.5-inch 5.56 NATO MPW: A configuration that provides another option between the compact and full-length models.

• 16-inch 5.56 NATO MPW: A traditional rifle-length configuration featuring a 13-inch AAC ARX free-floating handguard.

Alongside complete pistols, rifles, and SBRs, AAC is introducing complete upper assemblies for customers seeking standalone upper configurations. SBR configurations are available at launch through AAC’s distribution network, subject to applicable laws and transfer requirements.

MODERNIZED WHERE IT MATTERS

The next-generation MPW brings updated components and features to the platform, including FNC-coated 4150 CMV steel barrels, AAC ARX free-floating handguards, full-chrome bolt carrier groups with Carpenter 158 bolts, and AAC BLACKOUT flash hiders.

Complete firearm configurations also feature two-stage triggers, ambidextrous safeties, and Magpul furniture, with final configurations varying by model.

The 9-inch .300 Blackout MPW features an 8-inch AAC ARX handguard, while the 10.3-inch 5.56 model uses a 9-inch handguard. The 16-inch 5.56 configuration incorporates a 13-inch handguard, providing additional rail space and a longer working surface.

Together, these features establish a modern foundation for the MPW while maintaining AAC’s emphasis on the relationship between the host firearm and suppressor.

AAC BUILDS MORE THAN SUPPRESSORS. AGAIN.

For years, AAC has been recognized for its contributions to suppressor technology and the development of .300 AAC Blackout. The return of the MPW represents another step in the company’s broader product direction, bringing its firearm platforms back alongside its growing suppressor portfolio.

The new MPW is not simply a reproduction of a legacy firearm. It is a modern continuation of AAC’s original system-focused approach, offering today’s shooters a range of configurations backed by the brand’s experience in suppressor development.

PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

The new Advanced Armament Company MPW complete firearms carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $999.99, with complete upper assemblies priced at $749.99 MSRP.

The MPW lineup, including SBR configurations, is available immediately through AAC’s distribution network, with availability expanding through additional retail partners. All regulated firearm transfers remain subject to applicable federal, state, and local requirements.

Dealers and distributors interested in carrying the AAC MPW lineup are encouraged to contact Sales@Advanced-Armament.com for additional information.

For more information about the MPW platform and AAC’s expanding product lineup, visit www.advanced-armament.com.

ABOUT ADVANCED ARMAMENT COMPANY

Advanced Armament Company (AAC) is a firearms and suppressor brand with a longstanding history in sound suppression technology and the development of the .300 AAC Blackout cartridge. With a renewed focus on modern suppressor engineering, firearm platforms, and complete system design, AAC continues to build on its legacy while developing products for today’s shooting community.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Dealer & Distributor Inquiries: Sales@Advanced-Armament.com
Website: www.advanced-armament.com

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

Thyrm Launches New Low Profile Carry Clip 2.0

November 12th, 2026

Sunnyvale, CA – November 12, 2026 – Thyrm, a leading innovator in tactical and everyday carry gear, recently announced the release of the Low Profile Carry Clip 2.0 (LPC 2.0). Long known for their SwitchBack lineup of flashlight rings that allow the user’s hands to remain free for critical tasks, the new and improved LPC 2.0 offers a more low profile carry option.

The LPC 2.0  is built for rugged use and optimal performance in demanding environments while still keeping a low profile. Thyrm developed the original Low Profile Carry Clip to give your flashlight everything it needs, including a smaller visual signature while pocketed. The Low Profile Carry Clip 2.0 expands on the original design, making it even more versatile.

The LPC 2.0 features selectable depth carry and modular retention/deployment features. It has the same premium steel wire clip as the SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry, allowing you to choose from 3 distinct clip heights for comfortable everyday carry.

The LPC 2.0 also features 4 modules that let you fully customize how you carry your light:

• Ring module: used to attach the included flexible finger ring for enhanced retention under stress. You can also use it for a lanyard, bungee, or similar cordage.  

• Hook module: by adding the hook, you can dock the flexible finger ring around the back side of the LPC 2.0. Just pop the finger ring off of the hook with your thumb or finger when you’re ready to use it.

• Winglets: the two included winglets give you extra traction when deploying your light and work great for syringe-style grip techniques.

• And of course, you can leave the modules off the LPC 2.0 and run it slick for the lowest profile possible.

The LPC2 is available in black, flat dark earth, olive drab, and navy blue and is designed and manufactured in the USA.

MSRP: $29.99

Available Here: thyrm.com/collections/lpc-clip/products/low-profile-carry-clip-2-0

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

Team PROOF Dominates Top Gas Gun Matches with PXT Barrel Technology

November 12th, 2026

COLUMBIA FALLS, MT (November 12, 2026) — PROOF Research is proud to announce major wins by team members, Scott Peterson of Smiths Station, Ala., and Kalani Laker of Gilbert, Ariz., during the Gas Gun Show Series Finale, October 17-18, 2026, in Overbrook, Okla. 

Both shooters relied on PROOF Research steel PXT barrels to deliver the speed, consistency and long-range accuracy demanded at the highest levels of gas gun competition, further establishing PXT as the barrel to beat on the gas gun circuit.

The individual configurations for the top finishers included:

Scott Peterson (Gas Gun Show: 1st Overall, 1st DMR Division): 18-inch steel PXT barrel chambered in .223 Wylde, running in a Sons of Liberty Gun Works Broadsword.

Kalani Laker (SPARC Finale: 1st RECCE Division; Gas Gun Show: 1st in Division): Steel gas gun PXT barrel chambered in 5.56.

“PXT was engineered to perform when it matters most, and these results show it. A perfect score from Scott and back-to-back wins from Kalani at two of the toughest gas gun matches in the country speak for themselves,” said Sean Murphy, director of sales and marketing at PROOF Research.

As the leader in advanced carbon fiber and steel barrel technology, PROOF Research continues to push the boundaries of firearms engineering through innovation rooted in real-world performance.

“The PXT barrels handle my high-pressure 5.56 better than anything on the market,” said Laker. “It gives me consistent speed and SDs, combined with accuracy past 900 yards.”

For more information about Proof Research, visit ProofResearch.com. Follow along on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Posted in Industry, Press Release, Shooting Sports, Weapon Accessories | No Comments »

Gentex Corporation Surpasses 200,000 Enhanced Combat Helmets to the US Marine Corps

November 12th, 2026

CARBONDALE, PA, November 12, 2026 — Gentex Corporation, a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions, announced today it has delivered over 200,000 Enhanced Combat Helmets (ECH) to the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) since being awarded an initial contract in May 2017. This significant milestone highlights Gentex’s continued role in equipping Marines with cutting edge head protection designed to meet the demands of the modern battlefield. As an American-owned company since 1894, Gentex has a longstanding commitment to supporting those who serve.

This achievement includes the delivery of more than 35,000 high cut ECH helmets, demonstrating Gentex’s ability to modify the originalECH design into a more integrated platform, designed to betterintegrate mission-critical equipment, including night vision devices and communications headsets.

Under contracts with both U.S. Marine Corps Systems Command and DLA, Gentex has demonstrated consistent quality and delivered on or ahead of schedule while meeting stringent ballistic and durability requirements.

“Reaching the 200,000helmet milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering worldclass protective equipment to America’s warfighters,” said Pat Stallings, Senior Director of Operations (U.S. Army Retired), at Gentex Corporation. “We’re proud to support the Marine Corps with proven, missionready head protection solutions assembled in the United States.”

Building on its extensive experience with the ECH program and decades of helmet system innovation, Gentex was selected for the Marine Corps Integrated Helmet System (IHS) program, developing the FAST® IHS boltless helmet system through its Ops-Core® brand. The FAST IHS helmet delivers the same high level of ballistic protection as the ECH helmets while reducing system weight by 11% and improving overall integration with modern Marine equipment. The system incorporates many of the comfort, fit, and stability enhancements originally developed and fielded through the U.S. Special Operations Command Family of Tactical Headborne Systems (FTHS) program, including the Ops-Core POWERPATH® ARC Rail System, Modular Bungee Shroud, Vented LuxTM Liner, and the Occ-Dial® retention technology that was further refined through the Marine Corps IHS Other Transaction Authority (OTA) developmenteffort.

These technologies work together to improve helmet stability during dynamic movement, enhance load distribution, increase wearer comfort during extended operations, and provide superior integration with the Marine Corps’ Hearing Enhancement Devices (HEDs) and other communications headsets. The result is a lighter, more comfortable, and more operationally effective helmet system that reduces fatigue while enabling Marines to fully employ critical mission systems. The FAST IHS helmet represents the next evolution of Marine Corps headborne protection. By combining the proven ballistic performance of the ECH helmet with the advanced integration, comfort, and lightweight technologies pioneered through the Special Operations community, we are delivering a capability that better supports the modern Marine across the full spectrum of missions.

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, Helmets, Press Release, USMC | No Comments »

USSOCOM Seeks Helmet-Mounted First-Person View Display System

November 12th, 2026

In a sources sought notice published this week, US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), is seeking out information to identify sources capable of providing dismounted Special Operations Forces with a helmet-mounted first-person view (FPV) display.

This display must deliver an expanded field of view, certified ballistic protection, real-time tactical information overlay, and unmanned system control in contested, congested, and all-weather environments. The effort aims to develop a 50-degree field-of-view Display Module that integrates full military ballistic protection, ATAK capability, head tracking, improved display performance, and expanded environmental durability while remaining compatible with existing soldier systems and helmets.   

SOCOM’s last foray into this space was in 2024 with the ISEEYOU program. Since then, units have been purchasing various COTS solutions. Unfortunately, they have mostly been foreign sourced.

Interested parties must reply by 3:00 Eastern on 01-DEC-2026 via Vulcan.

Full details at Sam.gov.

Posted in Drone, SOF | No Comments »

Army, Partner Forces Begin Simulated Combat in Hawaii

November 12th, 2026

After days of preparation and staging across the Hawaiian archipelago, U.S. Army forces and their multinational partners began training against opposing forces during a Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center Rotation, Nov. 4.

This phase of the exercise tests the 25th Infantry Division’s ability to seize and hold key terrain in a simulated contested, multidomain environment. 

“We are leveraging the condition setting and synchronization of warfighting functions to enable our light fighters to win in close combat,” said Army Brig. Gen. Robert Bryant, 25th Infantry Division deputy commander for support. 

A key component of the transition relies on distributed access and mobility. 

The exercise involves approximately 7,000 personnel, demonstrating the Army’s commitment to readiness, interoperability with allies and partners, and its ability to provide flexible, combat-credible forces to the joint force in the Pacific region.

Operating on Maui and Oahu, the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade is working in tandem with elements of France’s 6th Light Armored Brigade to secure forward arming and refueling points. This critical multinational integration extends the joint force’s operational reach, allowing aviation assets to sustain continuous pressure and rapidly project combat power across the island chain. 

Ground forces on Oahu and the Big Island are moving to secure their initial objectives. Elements of the 2nd Mobile Brigade, 25th Infantry Division applied fieldcraft, mobility and modernized command-and-control systems to navigate demanding jungle terrain. 

In the next phase, the 11th Airborne Division will execute a mass tactical airborne jump, known as a joint forcible entry operation, into the P?hakuloa Training Area to secure key infrastructure. The 25th Infantry Division will then fly infantry troops over water in a long-range air assault to reinforce the position. These early maneuvers set the conditions for sustained tactical success and endurance as the exercise continues, paving the way for massive joint integration in later phases.

By Army CPT Eric-James Estrada, 25th Infantry Division

Posted in Army, Guest Post | No Comments »

U.S. Patriot Gives Back to Veterans Community Project in Honor of Veterans Day

November 11th, 2026

Lexington, Ky. (November 11, 2026) – U.S. Patriot, a veteran-founded and led retailer of military uniforms, apparel, footwear, and gear, announced today that it is making a donation to Veterans Community Project (VCP). Veterans Community Project is a nonprofit founded by veterans to help end veteran homelessness. VCP provides veterans in need with safe transitional housing through tiny home communities, along with personalized support such as employment assistance, financial guidance, healthcare connections, and case management. Its goal is to help veterans regain stability and move into permanent housing and independent living.

Because USP is a veteran-founded and led company, it understands the commitment military service demands and the challenges that can follow. About 60 percent of the USP workforce is veteran or military-affiliated, so the transition to civilian life and the struggle to find stable housing matter to USP personally. Helping veterans move from homelessness into permanent housing and independent living is a cause that reflects USP’s mission, and this Veterans Day USP is honored to stand behind and contribute to VCP’s work.

“The military community has always taken care of its own. It’s a bond that doesn’t end when a service member hangs up the uniform. That’s why our partnership with Veterans Community Project is so meaningful. Their mission reflects the very best of who we are as a community, ensuring veterans have the support, resources, and sense of belonging they deserve. At U.S. Patriot, we believe honoring service means more than saying thank you. It means stepping up, investing in those who served, and helping create opportunities for veterans and their families to thrive. We are proud to support an organization that is making a real difference and strengthening the communities our veterans call home,” said Josh Sandhaus, Vice President of Military Operations, U.S. Patriot.

“At Veterans Community Project, we are on a mission to fix Veteran homelessness and committed to serving every man and woman who wore the uniform. Because of partners like U.S. Patriot, more Veterans will have the chance to find the dignity of home in our Villages, work toward their goals in our case management program, and achieve lasting stability in permanent housing of their own. Through this campaign, a portion of every purchase becomes an investment in those who once took the oath to serve our country, telling them that a community has their back. We are grateful to U.S. Patriot and their customers for enlisting in this mission to fix Veteran homelessness,” said Brandonn Mixon, Co-Founder and Chief Project Officer, Veterans Community Project.

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

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