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Task Force Garrison And The Retired Investigators Guild Launch Expanded Bright Light Continuum Effort To Advance POW/MIA Accounting Mission

June 21st, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Coalition of veterans, investigators, and researchers unites to support awareness, historical research, and recovery efforts connected to America’s missing service members from the Vietnam War.

Reno, Nev. (June 2026) – Task Force Garrison (TFG) and The Retired Investigators Guild (RIG) today announced a significant expansion of the Bright Light Continuum Initiative, a collaborative effort focused on honoring, locating, and accounting for American service members who remain missing from the conflicts in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.

At a time when public awareness of the POW/MIA issue continues to fade from national attention, the Bright Light Continuum Initiative seeks to renew focus on one of America’s longest-standing commitments: bringing home those who never returned and pursuing answers for the families who continue to wait.

The initiative brings together military veterans, retired homicide investigators, historians, researchers, and private-sector partners in a coordinated effort dedicated to preserving historical truth, supporting ongoing recovery and accountability efforts, and educating future generations about the enduring legacy of America’s missing service members.

More than fifty years after the Vietnam War, over 1,500 Americans remain unaccounted for across Southeast Asia. Bright Light Continuum was created to ensure that these men are not reduced to statistics or forgotten chapters in history.

Through educational outreach, strategic partnerships, fundraising initiatives, historical research, and support for field operations, the program aims to build a growing coalition of organizations and individuals committed to advancing the POW/MIA mission.

“Every unresolved case represents a family that never received complete answers and a promise that remains unfinished,” said Jeff Munks, Chief Operating Officer of The Retired Investigators Guild. “The Bright Light Continuum is about bringing together the skills, experience, and determination necessary to continue pursuing those answers. We owe it to these men, their families, and the nation they served to keep moving forward.”

Unlike many awareness campaigns that end with recognition, Bright Light Continuum is designed to support tangible action.

“For many Americans, the POW/MIA flag has become a symbol they pass every day without fully understanding its meaning,” said Nico Sunseri, Chief Operating Officer of Task Force Garrison. “Behind every name is a Marine, Soldier, Sailor, or Airman whose story remains unfinished. Bright Light Continuum exists to ensure those stories continue to be told, that their sacrifices are remembered, and that every available avenue is explored in the pursuit of answers. We believe that commitment does not expire with time.”

As the initiative continues to grow, Task Force Garrison and The Retired Investigators Guild will expand public awareness campaigns, educational content, fundraising efforts, and strategic partnerships designed to strengthen support for the broader POW/MIA mission.

“There are men who boarded helicopters, crossed borders, answered the call of their nation, and never came home. Their families did not get closure. Their brothers-in-arms did not get answers. And the debt owed to them did not disappear with the passing of years,” said Mike Marty, Chief Executive Officer of Task Force Garrison and The Retired Investigators Guild. “The world has moved on. History books have been written. Generations have come and gone. But for America’s missing, the mission remains unfinished. Bright Light Continuum exists because we reject the idea that time can erase responsibility. We will continue to pursue the truth, preserve their stories, and honor their sacrifice, not because it is easy, not because it is popular, but because it is right. Until every possible lead is exhausted, every question answered, and every warrior accounted for, we will not stop.”

ABOUT TASK FORCE GARRISON

Task Force Garrison is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and their families through community engagement, outdoor programs, educational initiatives, and mission-focused events.

ABOUT THE RETIRED INVESTIGATORS GUILD

The Retired Investigators Guild (RIG) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization comprised of retired law enforcement professionals and military veterans who volunteer their time, expertise, and investigative experience to assist with cold case homicides and support active investigative efforts.

www.taskforcegarrison.org

www.therig.org

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US Army Ranger Hall of Fame Honors 2026 Inductees for Exemplary Service

June 21st, 2026

Columbus, GA – June 15, 2026 – The U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame selected 12 distinguished individuals to be inducted to the Ranger Hall of Fame on June 24, 2026, during a ceremony held at Fort Benning, Georgia.

Established in 1992, the Ranger Hall of Fame honors those who have demonstrated extraordinary valor, leadership, and commitment to the Ranger Creed. The 2026 inductees represent a diverse group of leaders whose service spans from WWII to modern-day operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

2026 Ranger Hall of Fame Inductees:

• GEN Daniel B. Allyn – General Allyn is a warrior-leader whose 36-year career exemplified the Ranger ethos. As a captain serving in South Korea, he sought assignment to the 75th Ranger Regiment and quickly proved himself as commander of Company C, 1st Ranger Battalion. He led the night combat parachute assault to seize Torrijos Airport during Operation Just Cause. He later commanded 3rd Ranger Battalion, leaving an enduring mark on the Regiment. Throughout his career, General Allyn embodied selfless service, combat valor, and unwavering commitment to the Ranger legacy, making him a truly deserving member of the Ranger Hall of Fame.

• SGM Colin M. Boley – Throughout his 26 years of service he continually led the way in all assignments and missions as a leader. Ranger Boley served more than 12 years in the 75th Ranger Regiment serving in many positions from Team Leader to 1SG with 15 combat deployments totaling more than 7 cumulative years in a combat environment throughout his career. SGM(R) Colin Boley has proven to be a competent and motivational leader of men always leading from the front and setting the example for Rangers to follow. He embodies what a true warrior should be, while serving a great nation in time of war.

• MG Clarence K.K. Chinn – Throughout a distinguished 36-year career, Ranger Chinn not only upheld but exemplified the Ranger Creed, demonstrating extraordinary leadership and an enduring commitment to the Ranger ethos. In every assignment, from Chief of Operations at SOCOM to DCG at USASOC, CG at JRTC & Fort Polk and Army South, Ranger Chinn’s professionalism, character, and leadership set the standard. His combat experience, mentorship, and leadership across Ranger and conventional forces shaped thousands of soldiers and left an enduring mark on Ranger history.

• GEN Richard D. Clarke – General (Ret.) Richard D. Clarke is inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for distinguished and faithful service to our country, and for dedicating his life and career to the values set forth in the Ranger Creed. His military career spanned close to 40 years and included multiple combat deployments to Desert Storm, Joint Guardian, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Inherent Resolve, New Dawn; spending more than five years deployed in support of combat operations. He played a fundamental role in securing the nation and its interest during a period of complex, volatile, and unpredictable threats from strategic competitors and violent extremist organizations. Gen. Clarke’s dynamic leadership, professional competence, and unyielding personal commitment was essential to the success of numerous missions of national importance and vital to the security of the United States of America.

• MAJ Peter Dencker – Ranger Dencker was commissioned Infantry from West Point in 1969 and volunteered for Vietnam. In August 1970 he was assigned as a platoon leader in 1/7th Cav. In December 1970, he reported to H/75th as the XO. From March 1971 till June 1972, he Commanded H/75th. His final assignment was teaching and coaching football at West Point. His awards include the Silver Star, Purple Heart, Bronze Star/w “V” (5 OLC), Army Commendation Medal/w “V ”(1 OLC), Air Medal/w “V” (7 OLC), numerous other US and foreign Awards. H/75th was the most decorated unit during the Vietnam conflict.

• COL Larry Perino – Recognized for serving our nation for 25 years and five months in a career defined by courage, leadership, and devotion to the Ranger Creed. On October 3–4, 1993, as a platoon leader with B Company, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, he led his Rangers during the Battle of Mogadishu as part of Task Force Ranger and Operation Gothic Serpent. Since retirement, Colonel Perino has continued to mentor Rangers, support alumni organizations, and share lessons from combat with today’s warriors. In 2021, he was awarded the Silver Star, presented in 2022 at Fort Benning, Georgia.

• MAJ Douglas Philippone – Recognized for his distinguished military career in the 75th Ranger Regiment in 1990 as an enlisted Anti-Tank Gunner in 1st Battalion. During his time in 3rd Ranger Battalion, Doug deployed four times to Afghanistan and Iraq. He led more than 100 direct action missions and earned three Bronze Star Medal awards, including two for valor, along with a Joint Service Commendation Medal for valor. Throughout his service, he embodied every stanza of the Ranger Creed.

• CSM Walter M. Rakow – Dedicated almost 50 years of service to his country on active duty, and as a civil servant, living the Ranger Creed every day. He held himself to the highest standards, whether on the field of battle or during peacetime. CSM Rakow’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to faith, family, and country. His “dynamic” personality and direct approach to leadership inspired countless generations of soldiers and leaders through his unwavering commitment to the Army, the mission, and to those with whom he served.

• SFC Matthew L. Rierson– Recognized for extraordinary service, exceptional leadership, and a lifelong embodiment of the Ranger Creed. Throughout his distinguished career, he demonstrated remarkable courage, tactical mastery, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Rangers and the nation. Sergeant First Class Rierson’s legacy endures through the Rangers he inspired, the standards he set, and the example he provided of what it means to move further, faster, and fight harder. His induction into the Ranger Hall of Fame honors a Ranger whose life and service reflect the highest traditions of the Regiment and the United States Army.

• GEN Stephen J. Townsend – Recognized for distinguished service to our nation, unparalleled leadership, and a lifetime devoted to the values of the Ranger Creed. Throughout four decades of service, General Townsend always strived to live up to the charge of Abram’s Charter to the Rangers by demonstrating unwavering dedication to excellence and setting a steadfast personal example of courage, integrity, and honor. His exceptional leadership reflects the highest traditions of the Rangers, the United States Army, and the United States Department of Defense.

• Blair Brown (Honorary) – Celebrated for more than a decade of exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to the U.S. Army Ranger community through his role as Vice President and Executive Director of the National Ranger Memorial Foundation. Blair’s service is also deeply personal, shaped by the example of his father, Major Roger Brown, a 2004 inductee of the Ranger Hall of Fame. His sustained contributions reflect exceptional dedication, integrity, and impact in direct support of the Ranger community.

• Candyss Bryant (Honorary) – Celebrated for her extraordinary contributions to the Ranger community. A distinguished nonprofit leader and steadfast advocate, she brings nearly three decades of experience in development, operations, and stakeholder engagement. Bryant has served the Ranger community with unwavering dedication, consistently giving “100% and then some.” Her selfless service, disciplined work ethic, and commitment to excellence embody the spirit of the Ranger Creed. As President of the Ranger Legacy Foundation, Bryant leads the vision and development of the Ranger Legacy Center, a transformative initiative dedicated to preserving the history ad inspiring future generations of the values, and enduring legacy of our Rangers.

The Ranger Hall of Fame ceremony underscores the enduring legacy of the Ranger community and its commitment to excellence, leadership, and service.

About the Ranger Hall of Fame:

The Ranger Hall of Fame was established to honor and preserve the contributions of America’s most extraordinary Rangers.

Inductees are selected based on their distinguished service and embodiment of the Ranger Creed.

For more information, please visit Ranger Legacy Foundation.

Posted in Admin, Army, Press Release, Profession of Arms | No Comments »

Army Innovators Automate Path to Zero Trust with Artificial Intelligence

June 21st, 2026

The Communications-Electronics Command Army Software and Innovation Center in partnership with the Warfighting Acquisition University and the C5ISR Center, has developed an artificial intelligence tool that significantly accelerates the Army’s transition to a Zero Trust cybersecurity framework. This supports the Department of War’s mandate to achieve Target Level Zero Trust by Fiscal Year 2027.

Zero Trust is a cybersecurity strategy based on the idea that networks are always at risk. Instead of trusting devices within the network, it requires every user and device to be authenticated and authorized before accessing data. Rolling out this approach across all Army systems is a big challenge, but it is necessary for operational readiness.

“Many organizations know they need Zero Trust, but I believe they’re overwhelmed by not knowing where to begin,” said Farhat Shah, a cybersecurity subject matter expert with CECOM ASIC.

Shah discussed this challenge and its corresponding solution during the Warfighting Acquisition University event, “Operationalizing Zero Trust – Leveraging Risk Management Framework and Artificial Intelligence,” held on May 13.

During the presentation, Shah explained that the team started with a five-month project to crosswalk the 91 Zero Trust activities to the thousands of Control Correlation Identifiers in the Army’s Risk Management Framework. This method aligns efforts down to the CCI level, which Shah calls “critical, because CCIs are actionable, testable elements that we use during our RMF assessments.” This helps system owners use their existing compliance work to check their Zero Trust status.

“Our goal is to reduce duplication of effort,” Shah said. “We want to save time and resources by leveraging existing work, and most importantly, reducing risk in a manageable and sustainable way. It is about aligning strategy, governance, and technology.”

The core innovation is “AI Flow,” an AI environment developed by CECOM ASIC. This tool processes a system’s RMF test results and automates the analysis to generate a Zero Trust baseline profile. In a pilot assessment of the Army Food Management Information System, the AI completed the review in about five minutes, compared to a week for a human expert. The assessment found that the AI was 89% accurate.

This system works with two agents. The first agent checks for compliance. If a system is noncompliant, the second agent investigates further, identifies specific gaps, and provides clear guidance, including references to the relevant policies and required documents. This transforms a simple compliance check into a step-by-step engineering process.

With the FY 2027 deadline approaching, CECOM ASIC seeks to partner with additional system owners to expand the tool’s capabilities and help them quickly assess their Zero Trust posture.

“As we continue to refine this process, we’re not just improving the tool; we are shaping a repeatable and scalable approach to support Zero Trust adoption across the enterprise,” said Shah. “If you are interested in advancing Zero Trust automation or want to see how this approach can benefit your organization, I invite you to partner with CECOM ASIC to evaluate and refine this process.”

This integration of existing frameworks and artificial intelligence provides a scalable, data-driven roadmap, that enables the Army to secure its systems and protect its data amid evolving digital threats.

For those who missed the May 13 session, the presentation and materials are available online. Personnel in the Defense Industrial Base, academia, and IT or cyber communities can access the recording and slides to learn how the Army is advancing cybersecurity. Watch the full presentation here: events/operationalizing-zero-trust-leveraging-rmf-and-ai

For inquiries or collaboration, contact ASIC Cybersecurity & Electromagnetic Warfare Directorate at Usarmy.apg.asic.mbx.zero-trust@army.mil.

By SCOTT HOCHENBERG

Posted in AI / ML, Army, Guest Post | No Comments »

7th ID Conducts Redesignation Ceremony

June 20th, 2026

Soldiers from the 7th Infantry Division and 1st Multi-Domain Task Force held a redesignation ceremony June 18 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, to case the 1st MDTF Headquarters and 7th ID Headquarters Support Company colors and uncase the 7th Infantry Division (Multi-Domain Command-Pacific) Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion colors, marking a major organizational shift.

The redesignation honors the Bayonet Division’s legacy while establishing the 7th Infantry Division (Multi-Domain Command-Pacific) as theArmy’s newest theater-enabling command, built to integrate maneuver, fires, air defense, cyber, space, electronic warfare, intelligence, unmanned systems, sustainment, and command and control in support of the Joint Force across the Pacific.

“We are merging the operational endurance, flexibility, and protection of our proven Stryker formations with the long-range sensing and precision fires of our multi-domain task force,” said Maj. Gen. Bernard J. Harrington, commanding general of 7th ID (MDC-PAC).

7th ID (MDC-PAC) is an operational-level formation designed to operate forward, develop situations, disrupt enemy systems, and complicate adversary planning.

It supports the Army’s transformation initiative by unifying 7th ID’smaneuver assets and 1st MDTF’s multi-domain capabilities under one command, streamlining mission command across complex operations.

Central to7th ID (MDC-PAC)is the Cross-Domain Contact Layer, a system that integrates intelligence collection, electronic warfare effects, and artificial intelligence to support rapid command decisions within a continuous operational framework.The CDCL allows forces to disperse over large areas to maintain pressure on adversaries both in close and deep areas.

“Through our emerging Cross Domain Contact Layer concept, our division will employ capabilities such as unmanned surface vessels; long-range, one-way attack drones; and launched effects to penetrate the adversary’s anti-access/area-denial network,” Harrington said, “Every radar that emits, every node that transmits, every headquarters that commands, we aim to hold continuously at risk alongside our joint Partners and allies.”

Harrington now leads the Army’s newest multi-domain headquarters, which will refine the CDCL model during upcoming combined, joint and multinational exercises.

The CDCL organizes modern battlefield capabilities into four components: sensors that capture information across land, air, sea, space, and cyberspace; precision weapons paired with affordable unmanned drones; digital networks and software that help leaders make faster decisions; and robust military units able to operate even when disrupted by enemy action.

Harrington stressed that alongside Partners and allies, the division aims to prevent conflict, and the common thread connecting all efforts is the Soldiers.

“Technology does not win wars,” he said, “our people do.”

The ceremony also reflects the Army’s pushto distribute sensing, fires, electronic warfare, space, and cyber capabilities across maneuver formations to increase effectiveness in contested environments.

“Our hourglass patch went to France in World War I and helped defeat the Germans in the largest battle in American history,” Harrington said, noting the division’s long tradition of adaptation, “Later, it trained as a motorized infantry battalion, then amphibious assault, then light infantry. The Bayonets went ashore in the frozen Aleutians in 1943. They fought in the jungles of Laite. In Korea, they landed and fought at Incheon at the Chosin Reservoir, and by the end of that war, had served a staggering 850 days in continuous combat.”

Gen. Ronald P. Clark, commanding general of U.S. Army Pacific, emphasized the division’s commitment to future training and Indo-Pacific readiness.

Clark outlined U.S. Army Pacific’s focus: delivering combat-ready forces, strengthening Partnerships and alliances, and advancing innovation to maintain a competitive edge in the Pacific.

“With this transformation, the 7th Infantry Division is poised to plan and execute complex multi-domain operations across this region,” Clark added. “Bringing the full strength and resources of a division in support of the joint force.”

These changes build on years of Indo-Pacific experimentation, including 1st MDTF deployments, ground-based long-range precision fires, and combined efforts with regional Partners such as the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“These Soldiers have invested wholeheartedly in experimenting, deploying, and employing capabilities that work from the heavens to the earth, from the air to the sea, and flow with all the digits that go in between,” said Col. Charles W. Kean,7th ID (MDC-PAC) deputy commanding officer-effects andformer 1st MDTF commander,“It has truly been inspirational to watch them in action.”

He noted that their dedication has propelled the division into its next phase of transformation, adding that this progress is only the beginning as the organization adapts to new operational demands.

“This merger isn’t an ending,” Kean said. “It’s just another milestone as we continue to move at the pace of relevance. We built something historic, and we’re continuing to build something historic, something consequential, and something that could potentially stop the next war.”

Story by SFC Monik Phan 

7th Infantry Division

Posted in Army, Forces Focus, Guest Post | No Comments »

Quantum Systems and Tencore to Co-Produce 2,000 TerMIT UGVs in Germany

June 20th, 2026

Quantum Tencore Industries (QTI), the second German-Ukrainian joint venture under the “Build with Ukraine” initiative after Quantum Frontline Industries, focuses on the industrial-scale production of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) in Germany for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. With an initial order for 2,000 systems, QTI will deliver the largest global UGV procurement to date.  

Munich, Germany | Kyiv, Ukraine – 19 June 2026:Quantum Tencore Industries (QTI) was selected for the delivery of 2,000 TerMIT unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) to the Ukrainian Armed Forces over the next 12 months. The joint venture QTI is the second German-Ukrainian joint venture between Quantum Systems and leading Ukrainian UGV manufacturer Tencore under the “Build with Ukraine” initiative and will manufacture the Ukrainian-designed systems in Germany.

Funded by the German Ministry of Defence, the programme will provide the first contract for QTI and enable the immediate ramp-up of manufacturing activities in Germany. Production will be carried out in cooperation with an established industrial partner, allowing rapid integration into existing manufacturing infrastructure while strengthening industrial capacity and supporting skilled employment in Germany.

The programme builds on Quantum Systems’ long-standing presence in Ukraine and follows the co-production model established through Quantum Frontline Industries under the “Build with Ukraine” initiative. It represents one of the largest known procurements of unmanned ground vehicles in Europe to date and reflects the growing operational importance of ground robotics in modern military operations.

Hendrik Kramer, Managing Director of Quantum Tencore Industries, said: “Over the past 12 months, UGVs have fundamentally changed battlefield operations in Ukraine, from logistics and casualty evacuation to frontline combat missions. By combining battle-proven Ukrainian ground systems with German industrial scale, QTI is contributing to build strategic capacity in one of the most important emerging capabilities of modern warfare.”

Maksym Vasylchenko, Co-Founder and CEO of Tencore, added: “Ukrainian engineers have developed highly effective ground robotic systems under real operational conditions. With Quantum Systems, we now have the industrial partner to scale these systems in Germany, expand production, and ensure reliable delivery to Ukrainian forces.”

TerMIT is a modular, frontline-proven, multi-role tracked unmanned ground vehicle (UGV). It is designed to execute a wide range of ground missions, including logistics, field support, evacuation, and engineering tasks. Since 2023, TerMIT has proven itself in thousands of missions in Ukraine. It is designed as a software-defined ground system, enabling continuous capability growth through software rather than hardware changes.

Fully integrated into Quantum Systems’ MOSAIC UXS platform, the UGV benefits from ongoing development cycles that introduce new functions, optimizations, and integrations over time. This program represents the largest known UGV procurement efforts in Europe to date and reflects the increasing operational role of unmanned ground systems in modern military operations.

QTI combines Ukrainian battlefield innovation with German industrial scale, creating a manufacturing and delivery model capable of bringing proven ground robotic systems into production at the pace and volume required by modern defence forces.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release, Robotics | No Comments »

Eyes on the Skies

June 20th, 2026

The 820th Base Defense Group (BDG) conducted counter-small unmanned aerial system (CsUAS) training, May 7, 2026, reinforcing its focus on preparing air base ground defense Airmen to operate in an environment increasingly shaped by unmanned aerial threats.

The training emphasized the purpose, intent and significance of CsUAS integration into base defense operations. Instructors highlighted the growing use of small unmanned aerial systems for reconnaissance, surveillance and potential payload delivery, stressing the importance of early identification, rapid decision-making and integration of CsUAS considerations into existing defensive planning.

“My desire is for the Airmen to understand the importance of this system, with the additional understanding that we are trusting them to execute all battle drills in a moment’s notice to protect the base,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Christopher DeLong, 822nd Base Defense Squadron (BDS) operations officer. “My Airmen, along with sister service members, will be responsible for ensuring our airspace is secured and defended from any hostile drones, so they must understand the enhanced responsibility they have.”

The purpose of the instruction was to establish a shared baseline of understanding across the force. Airmen were briefed on common small unmanned aerial system characteristics, threat indicators, employment methods and hands-on simulated incident instruction. The course also reinforced how CsUAS awareness must be incorporated into routine defensive posture and not treated as a standalone capability.

“Day 1 consists of CsUAS basics and system familiarization. This is the foundation of a member’s ability to work the system efficiently to give leaders the best picture of the battlespace during a quick reaction to a CsUAS incident,” said Tech. Sgt. Matthew Eichner, 822nd BDS flight sergeant and CsUAS course instructor. “Days 2-5 consist of hands-on training through a simulator. The Airmen worked through several battle drills to ensure they are capable of relaying vital information up the chain and supporting and carrying out the decision to implement kinetic and non-kinetic defense measures. This is vital to the protection of personnel and PL assets.”

The intent of the training was to standardize knowledge and improve overall readiness across defensive teams. Instruction focused on how CsUAS capabilities fit within a layered defense approach, integrating sensors, communications networks and both kinetic and non-kinetic response options.

The significance of the training lies in its contribution to installation protection and mission assurance. As small unmanned aerial systems become more accessible and more frequently employed in contested environments, base defense forces are required to adapt their tactics, techniques and procedures to maintain effectiveness against emerging threats.

“My three main takeaways focus on teamwork, military advancement and adapting to threats,” said Staff Sgt. Sawyer Logan, 822nd BDS CsUAS program manager. “First, successful operations require a strong team of skilled operators working together to make fast, high-stakes decisions. Second, the military is constantly innovating and fielding new systems to better protect our bases and personnel. Finally, as our enemies improve their capabilities, we must also adapt to find faster, more efficient ways to counter them.”

The 820th BDG’s emphasis on CsUAS training reflects a broader shift toward integrated base defense operations that combine awareness, detection and response capabilities into a cohesive framework. By increasing Airmen’s understanding of the threat environment and available response options, the unit strengthens its ability to protect critical assets, maintain operational continuity and reduce reaction time during potential incursions.

The training concluded with a reinforcement of key principles and an emphasis on continued professional development as CsUAS capabilities and threat systems evolve.

Story by Senior Airman Iain Stanley 

93rd Air Ground Operations Wing

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

STORM Signs Partnership Agreement with ISTEC and Launches RADS UniCAGE Universal Ring Mount

June 19th, 2026

At Eurosatory 2026, STORM Adapt Group AS signs a Rapid Adapt and Deploy System (RADS) application partnership agreement with ISTEC Services Limited, and launches the new RADS UniCAGE Universal Ring Mount. This new system is on display, fitted to a Ford Super Duty pickup, on the RMA Stand, Hall 4 E193.

This new addition to the STORM RADS lineup, based on the UniCAGE and integrated with ISTECs Universal Ring Mount, combines the pickup agnostic utility of RADS UniCAGE with the ability to mount various crew-served weapon systems, such as HMG, MMG and GPMG, to ISTEC’s universal ring mount without the need for permanent modification to the vehicle. In addition, to increase flexibility, the weapon system can be removed by a single operator and deployed away from the vehicle in a dismounted role. The integrated system is being qualified to the same firing-stability and safety requirements expected of a fixed mount, so the weapon platform remains fully removable without compromising accuracy or safety.

STORM Adapt Group AS is a Norwegian company that develops RADS, which is an open, modular, dual-use vehicle integration architecture for civil and defence use. RADS provides a fast, cost- effective and standardised way to integrate technology and equipment onto various pickup vehicles.

Built around the patented DockLock mounting system and the ArxLock external attachment rail, it lets a platform be reconfigured for changing roles and gives operators a new way to deploy capability and manage fleet logistics across a vehicle’s lifecycle.

ISTEC Services Ltd is a British company with 37 years of operationally proven experience in the design and manufacture of weapon integration solutions across the land, sea and air domains, including Universal Gun Mounts, Protected Weapon Stations and ring mount systems for 5.56mm, 7.62mm, 12.7mm and 40mm weapons. Platform and weapon agnostic, ISTEC mounts have been operationally proven on vehicles such as WMIK, Mastiff, Husky and Jackal, are fitted to Royal Navy vessels and most recently on the USAF’s Grey Wolf helicopter.

Andreas Rist EVP and Founder of STORM said, “This partnership is a perfect demonstration of engineering expertise being combined to increase the benefit to customers. The STORM RADS capability provides maximum utility and flexibility to the end user by being modular and platform agnostic, without the need for permanent modifications. It maintains a vehicle’s maximum potential use cases from transport, logistics, medical or in this instance as a weapon station. This aligns perfectly with ISTECs own ethos of being platform and weapon agnostic, and together, the RADS UniCAGE Universal Ring Mount provides the user with a supremely adaptable weapons station to enhance physical protection and increase firepower, both fitted to a vehicle or in the dismounted role.”

Jamie Armstrong, Chief Design Engineer ISTEC said, “RADS is an innovative engineering solution giving our mounts a unique standardised, vehicle-agnostic way to be fitted, moved and deployed in the dismounted role, without permanent vehicle modification. A single operator can drop a weapon platform at an observation post in the morning, then collect it and re-arm a different vehicle in the afternoon. STORM has built a smart, open platform, for enhancing the utility of pick-up trucks and partnering with them allows our weapon integration to be fitted to multiple vehicle types.”

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

U.S. Air Force Awards GA-ASI Production Contract for FQ-42A CCA

June 19th, 2026

Company Will Produce Service’s New Uncrewed Combat Jets

SAN DIEGO – 17 June 2026 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has received a production contract from the U.S. Air Force (USAF) for the FQ-42A Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). The initial order is a significant milestone, beginning the delivery of production aircraft to the warfighter. GA-ASI designed, developed and flight-tested FQ-42A on an accelerated schedule unlike any fighter in recent history.

“This is an exciting day for our company and the nation,” said company President David R. Alexander. “Moving to production on FQ-42A is the result of an extraordinary partnership and many years of investments between General Atomics and the U.S. Air Force. We’ve been preparing for this order, and manufacturing is already well underway.”

The FQ-42A is a purpose-built, uncrewed fighter developed as part of ongoing investment in next-generation semi-autonomous combat aircraft. The aircraft’s modular design enables rapid integration of mission systems and mission autonomy software. GA-ASI’s software architecture, demonstrated through live flight tests on multiple airframes, provides the foundation for human-machine teaming in complex combat scenarios.

The development effort by GA-ASI fast-tracked, with the aircraft moving from contract award to first flight in just 15 months, one of the fastest rollouts of a new fighter in history.

GA-ASI was selected by the U.S. Air Force in 2024 to build production-representative flight test articles for the CCA program. The YFQ-42A successfully conducted its maiden flight in August 2025, validating a “genus/species” concept for rapid, modular, and low-cost uncrewed fighter aircraft development previously demonstrated in partnership with U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).

GA-ASI’s approach enables a common core aircraft design that can be rapidly adapted for different mission sets and service requirements. GA-ASI’s Gambit Series concept for CCA envisions multiple variants that serve specific needs, including long-endurance surveillance; air-to-air superiority; air-to-ground strike and more.

GA-ASI has been building and flying uncrewed jets for nearly two decades, beginning with the company-funded, weaponized MQ-20Avenger® in 2008. The company’s XQ-67A Off-Board Sensing Station jet, developed in collaboration with AFRL, is a cutting-edge model for autonomous collaborative platforms with advanced airborne sensing and served as a flying prototype for the FQ-42A concept.

Pre-production versions of the new fighter were designated “YFQ-42;” with “Y” designating a prototype phase. The award of an Air Force production contract means the forthcoming aircraft will be among the first in history to carry the novel FQ designation: “F” for fighter and “Q” designating the platform is uncrewed.

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Contracts, Press Release, UAS | No Comments »

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