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AV Introduces MAYHEM 10: Multi-Role Launched Effects System at AAAA 2026

April 16th, 2026

ARLINGTON, Va. — April 15, 2026 — AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) today announced the debut of MAYHEM 10, a groundbreaking, multi-role launched effects system purpose-built for deployment from air, ground, and maritime platforms.

MAYHEM 10 is an autonomous, multi-role launched effects system that delivers significant operational versatility with a modular payload that supports interchangeable lethal and non-lethal effects—including intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare, communications relay, and precision strike—tailored to specific mission requirements and adaptable as operational conditions change.

“MAYHEM 10 sets a new standard for operational versatility and survivability on the modern battlefield,” said Wahid Nawabi, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer at AV. “By integrating advanced autonomy, multi-domain payloads, and rapid adaptability, we empower our forces to sense, disrupt, and strike with precision—even in the most contested environments. This breakthrough allows commanders to extend their reach, accelerate decision-making, and maintain superiority without putting crews or high-value assets at unnecessary risk.”

Developed on the heritage of AV’s Switchblade® family and designed for demanding, contested environments, MAYHEM 10 boasts a 10-pound (4.5 kg) payload capacity, up to 100 km operational range, 50 minutes of endurance, and readiness for assembly and launch in less than five minutes.

Built using a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), the system supports seamless upgrades, third-party payload integration, and unified control through AV’s Tomahawk Grip controller and AV_Halo™ COMMAND interface, empowering networked, distributed, and scalable employment alone or in collaborative swarms to execute multiple effects in parallel and adapt quickly to evolving threats and mission needs.

“MAYHEM 10 changes how forces generate combat power by enabling collaborative swarm operations at scale,” said Brian Young, Senior Vice President of Loitering Munitions at AV. “Operators can employ multiple systems to work collaboratively—expanding coverage, overwhelming defenses, and executing synchronized effects across the battlespace—without increasing platform risk or force concentration.”

MAYHEM 10 features a removeable forward modular payload for rapid integration of third-party payloads to enhance mission flexibility. Its self-contained launcher supports flexible deployment across dismounted, mobile ground, air-mounted and vehicle-mounted operations.

Advanced autonomy is powered by an AI-driven processor and enables effective operations in contested and denied environments, with resilience to jamming, spoofing, and navigation-denied conditions. Secure navigation and communication are facilitated by M-Code GPS and Silvus datalink, while a MANET secure mesh network ensures robust command-and-control links with a 25-40 km link range.

Key features of the MAYHEM 10.

Multi-Platform Extended Standoff: Deployable from air, ground, and maritime platforms, MAYHEM 10 extends host-platform standoff by enabling threat detection and engagement at range—pushing sensing and effects 100+ km forward while reducing risk to crews and high-value assets.

One System, Multiple Effects: A single MAYHEM 10 supports configurations for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare/disruption, deception/decoy, communications relay, and precision strike with up to 10 lbs of tailorable nonlethal or lethal payloads—without changing launch concepts.

Scalable, Coordinated Effects: Employ MAYHEM 10 individually or in collaborative swarms to expand coverage, overwhelm or confuse defenses, and execute multiple effects in parallel—without concentrating forces or crewed platforms.

Autonomy for Contested Environments: AI-enabled autonomy allows MAYHEM 10 to maintain mission effectiveness through jamming, spoofing, degraded communications, and denied navigation, reducing reliance on continuous operator control and operator burden.

Built to Adapt and Evolve: A Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA)-based, interoperable architecture enables rapid payload integration, autonomy upgrades, and system employment keeping MAYHEM 10 aligned with evolving threats, networks, and priorities.

Posted in Drone, Press Release | No Comments »

FN Enters Optic Market with Groundbreaking Red Dot

April 16th, 2026

(McLean, VA – April 16, 2026) FN America, LLC has announced the launch of the FN PUREVIEW™, a new pistol-mounted red dot sight that uses advanced holographic technology powered by ImageGuide® to improve aiming performance. This system projects the dot in a way that keeps it aligned with the user’s line of sight, resulting in a clearer image with less distortion and more accurate shooting.

“FN is known for delivering innovation and professional-grade products, and the FN PUREVIEW now brings the performance FN is known for to the optics market,” said John Ryan, Director of Product Management for FN America, LLC. “Born from FN’s expertise designing optics-ready pistols and advanced aiming systems under our FN E-NOVATION product line, this new optic allows us to deliver a lighter, clearer, and more rugged solution.”

Unlike traditional optics, the FN PUREVIEW uses this holographic approach instead of standard curved lenses, helping users see a sharper image and aim more confidently, even under pressure or in fast-moving situations.

The optic is also designed to be lightweight and compact, weighing about 25% less than similar enclosed sights. This helps maintain the natural handling of the pistol while still offering strong protection against dirt, debris, and impact.

Built with durable materials such as aluminum and titanium, the FN PUREVIEW is made to withstand tough conditions. It is waterproof, fog-resistant, and able to operate at extreme temperatures ranging from -40°F to 126°F. Even if the lens becomes damaged, the dot remains visible and usable.

The FN PUREVIEW includes several user-friendly features:

Automatic brightness adjustment with 14 settings, including options for night vision and bright daylight
Motion-sensing technology that turns the optic on when moved and conserves battery when not in use
Easy-to-use controls with clear tactile feedback
A top-loading battery compartment for quick replacement without removing the optic

“Holographic projection is highly complex to develop, but we’ve successfully adapted it for use on a pistol,” said Chris Johnson, Senior Product Manager for Pistols at FN America, LLC. “The result is a clearer sight picture and improved accuracy, especially at longer distances, giving users real-world performance benefits.”

The sight is compatible with FN pistol models designed for optics, including the FN 509®, FN 510®, FN 545®, and FN Five-seveN®.

The FN PUREVIEW will be showcased at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston and is expected to be available for purchase later this year.

ImageGuide is a registered trademark of Creative Micro Systems Corp. and is used with permission.

Posted in NRA, Optics, Press Release | No Comments »

Tasmanian Tiger Introduces the TT SGL Mag Pouch Clamp M4

April 16th, 2026

New open-top magazine pouch combines integrated clamping system with MOLLE compatibility for Rapid Tactical Access.

Knoxville, Tenn. (April 2026) – Tasmanian Tiger®, a tactical nylon line of products distributed exclusively for the US market by Proforce Equipment, Inc., has launched the TT SGL Mag Pouch Clamp M4, a purpose-built open magazine pouch engineered for M4/AR-15 platforms that integrates a plastic clamping device for secure retention and fast magazine deployment. Designed for operators and shooters who demand both speed and reliability, the pouch features an inserted plastic clip that holds M4 magazines firmly in place while allowing rapid insertion and removal under pressure. Elastic side compression and an elastic cord closure provide additional retention and adaptability across varying magazine sizes.

The TT SGL Mag Pouch Clamp M4 is particularly well-suited for belt carry and is compatible with both 2-inch (5mm) belts and MOLLE systems via reverse MOLLE attachment that requires two MOLLE loops, making it a strong option for use as a magazine return pouch. A removable 3D polymer pull tab further streamlines one-handed reloads.

Constructed from CORDURA® 700 den fabric (Multicam in 500 den), the single-capacity pouch weighs 4.2 oz/120g and measures 5.1 x 3.15 x 1 in. / 13 x 8 x 2.5 cm. It is available in black, olive, and coyote for an MSRP of $49.95. Multicam is available at an MSRP of $59.95.

Posted in Load Carrying, Press Release | No Comments »

Introducing the Reptilia Extendo and AR10 Puller

April 16th, 2026

Hillsborough, NC – Reptilia expands its lineup of purpose-built firearm accessories with the release of two new products: the EXTENDO AUS™ Offset Extension and the PULLER Ambidextrous Charging Handle for AR10-pattern rifles. Both products are engineered to address real-world performance challenges while maintaining the brand’s focus on low-profile design, durability, and system integration.

The EXTENDO is designed to work with all Reptilia AUS Offset Mounts, increasing standoff by 0.4 inches to provide additional clearance for optics with larger windage turrets. This added offset ensures a clear, unobstructed sight picture when running magnified optics that may otherwise interfere with offset red dot visibility. Machined from 7075-T6 aluminum and weighing just 6 grams, the EXTENDO delivers this added functionality with minimal impact to overall system weight or footprint. Installation is streamlined using the included 0.875” mounting screws, allowing seamless integration into existing AUS™ configurations.

Also launching is the PULLER Ambidextrous Charging Handle for AR10 platforms, a low-profile, high-strength upgrade designed for consistent and reliable manipulation from either side. Purpose-built for larger-frame rifles, the PULLER features ambidextrous geometry that supports a wide range of shooting styles while maintaining smooth, controlled operation under speed or adverse conditions. Its anti-snag profile minimizes interference without sacrificing leverage, ensuring confident, repeatable handling.

Both products are machined from billet 7075-T6 aluminum and finished with MIL-STD Type III, Class 2 hardcoat anodizing for long-term durability in demanding environments. The EXTENDO and PULLER are available in Black and Flat Dark Earth finishes.

Like all Reptilia products, both are 100% made in the USA and backed by a full lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects.

The EXTENDO AUS Offset Extension and PULLER Charging Handle for AR10 platforms are available now at reptiliacorp.com.

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

US Army Announces Popular Name for the MV-75 FLRAA: “Cheyenne II”

April 16th, 2026

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The U.S. Army announced today that its next-generation multi-role vertical lift aircraft, the MV-75 Future Long Range Assault Aircraft, will carry the Native American name “Cheyenne II”.

The announcement was made during the Army Aviation Association of America’s annual conference on April 15, 2026, where the MV-75 Mission Design Series was unveiled. The new platform represents a leap forward in technology and capability, combining speed, payload, and survivability in ways never before achieved in a single aircraft.

Developed as FLRAA, the MV-75 Cheyenne II delivers pivotal aviation capabilities to the Joint Force, flying twice as far and twice as fast as the current rotary aviation fleet. This medium-sized, multi-role aircraft combines the versatility of a helicopter with the speed and range of an airplane, making it a game changer for Army aviation.

“The Cheyenne people represent a resilient warrior culture and embody the key attributes of the MV-75 – speed, reach, lethality, and adaptability,” said the HON Brent Ingraham, Army Acquisition Executive. “I am honored to be part of this historic occasion as we officially name our multi-mission tiltrotor aircraft.”

The Cheyenne tribes, known for their adaptability, resilience, and strong warrior culture, inhabited the Great Plains for over 400 years. They were proficient hunters and gatherers, thriving in harsh environments and developing a social structure that allowed them to relocate quickly and efficiently. Today, the Cheyenne are divided into two federally recognized tribes: the Cheyenne and Arapahoe tribes in Oklahoma and the Northern Cheyenne tribe in Montana.

“Representing the future of Army aviation, the MV-75 embodies the strength and versatility of the Cheyenne tribes,” said MG Clair Gill, Portfolio Acquisition Executive and commanding general at Fort Rucker, Ala. “This aircraft will revolutionize how the Army fights and wins, delivering unmatched capabilities to the Joint Force and ensuring we maintain a decisive advantage on the battlefield.”

The Army followed a deliberate and disciplined process in evaluating nominations of more than 500 tribes, Native American figures, and terms before selecting the name “Cheyenne II”. The name was previously used in the late 1960s for the AH-56 Cheyenne, which was developed to be an advanced, high-speed attack helicopter. While the AH-56 program did not move forward, its legacy of innovation and speed lives on in the new tiltrotor platform.

“This is a historic day for our MV-75 Cheyenne II team and the Army,” said Rodney Davis, Capability Program Executive, Aviation. “Stakeholders across the Army aviation enterprise were deeply involved in the research and analysis during the naming process. We are proud to honor the Cheyenne tribes and their legacy.”

The MV-75 Cheyenne II will dramatically expand the Army’s operational reach, enabling long-range air assault missions from safer distances. Built with a Modular Open Systems Approach and a plug-and-play digital backbone, the aircraft is “engineered to evolve,” allowing for seamless integration of advanced technologies throughout its lifecycle. With fly-by-wire technologies and advanced autonomy, the Cheyenne II is designed to meet the challenges of future battlefields.

“The MV-75 is a transformational aircraft that will provide our Joint Force with unparalleled versatility to dominate a wide array of mission sets,” said Col. Jeffrey Poquette, Project Manager for the MV-75 Cheyenne II. “We are honored to have the Cheyenne tribes’ approval to use their name, which embodies the power of this aircraft.”

As the Army modernizes for the future, the MV-75 Cheyenne II is a key component in ensuring the Army of the future maintains a decisive advantage on an evolving battlefield.

By U.S. Army Public Affairs

Posted in Army, Aviation, Press Release | No Comments »

2026 SIG SAUER Relentless Warrior Championship: U.S. Military Academy Takes Back the Title

April 15th, 2026

U.S. Military Academy at West Point wins the 2026 SIG Relentless Warrior Championship

NEWINGTON, N.H., (April 15, 2026) – SIG SAUER, industry leading manufacturer of cutting-edge firearms, optics, and ammunition was honored to host the 2026 SIG Relentless Warrior Championship (SRWC) at the SIG SAUER Academy. With eleven teams of one hundred and thirty-four competitors, the 2026 SRWC event marked the largest in the event’s history.

Cadets from the Air Force Academy, Coast Guard Academy, Merchant Marine Academy, Royal Military College of Canada, Texas A&M, The Citadel, US Naval Academy, University of North Georgia, Virginia Military Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute, and West Point competed over two days among stiff competition. The event concluded with an awards banquet featuring retired SGM and Leadership in the Shadows author Kyle Lamb.

This year’s SIG Relentless Warrior Challenge put one hundred and thirty-four competitors through ten challenging stages, testing their skills in marksmanship, teamwork, fitness, and leadership through mission focused themes. After two days of competition in some of the best weather to date, the US Military Academy at West Point was crowned the team champion.

“I am incredibly proud of the performance our Cadets delivered this past weekend. Coming out on top against ten other high-caliber schools and military academies was no accident. We emphasize that being a proficient shooter is only the baseline; the true requirement is the mental and physical fortitude to overcome any obstacle in their path,” said Gary Salman, coach of U.S. Military Academy at West Point. “The lessons these Cadets learned this weekend are not confined to the range. These experiences build the operational capabilities they will carry into the Army as they assume leadership roles. Everything we do revolves around our core mantra: developing leaders of character who will fight and win our nation’s wars.”

Awards for the SIG Relentless Warrior Championship:

Team Finishes

First Place – U.S. Military Academy at West Point

Second Place – Virginia Polytechnic Institute

Third Place – United States Air Force Academy

Fourth Place – Texas A&M

Fifth Place – University of North Georgia

Individual Finishes

Top Gun Overall Champion: Lewis Hare – West Point

Second Place Overall: Gavin Vollmer – West Point

Third Place Overall: Robert Woertink – US Air Force Academy

Fourth Place Overall: Tyler Wade – Virginia Polytechnic Institute

Fifth Place Overall: Wojciech Ward?cki – West Point

High Lady: Kaia Gilfillan – RMC-Canada

Shoot-Off Winner: Thomas Nunnally – Texas A&M

Team Top Shots (highest finisher for each school)

West Point – Lewis Hare

Virginia Polytechnic Institute – Tyler Wade

Air Force Academy – Robert Woertink

Texas A&M – Thomas Nunnally

University of North Georgia – Jesse Shoemaker

US Naval Academy – Sam Reece

Virginia Military Institute – Alex Bodner

Coast Guard Academy – Dhiren Kettish

RMC Canada – Liam Septon

The Citadel – Ryan Bostanci

Merchant Marine Academy – Evan Hoang-Le

Spirit of the Warrior Award: Robert Farris – Virginia Polytechnic Institute

“SIG SAUER is proud to host this competition for the eighth year. I’m relieved that these cadets had a chance to compete in great weather for the first time in a while. They showed great resolve, competitive spirit, and leadership throughout the entire event. We tested their marksmanship and fitness in a landscape where they could experience the skills, stress, comradery, and teamwork that will help develop them as future leaders in the military and beyond,” said Phil Strader, Vice President, Consumer Affairs.

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

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

Mustang Survival at FDIC International 2026

April 15th, 2026

Mustang Survival’s truck and trailer are set to roll into FDIC International 2026 (April 20-25, Indianapolis, IN) at booth #8205 in Lucas Oil Stadium. The team will welcome fire, rescue, and public safety professionals to explore trusted solutions built for the most demanding marine environments.

Visitors will get a sneak peek of a new waterproof jacket engineered specifically for law enforcement and marine patrol units operating on the water. It is designed for full waterproof protection, reliable access to duty gear, and seamless compatibility with agency uniforms and handwear. Every element, from reinforced high-wear zones to minimized snag points and secure hood storage, has been purpose-designed to support mission-critical tasks while maintaining a clean, agency-ready profile.

FDIC also marks an important moment for The Wing Group as Mustang Survival will be displaying its collaboration with sister company, Kokatat. The booth will feature a selection of Kokatat professional dry suits alongside Mustang products, underscoring a shared commitment to serving professionals with trusted, innovative, and purpose-built gear.

www.mustangsurvival.com

Posted in Maritime, Press Release, Tradeshow | No Comments »

CZ Welcomes Jeff Gonzales as Marketing & Communications Specialist and Brand Ambassador

April 15th, 2026

CZ is proud to announce that former U.S. Navy SEAL and world-class trainer, Jeff Gonzales, has joined the company as a Marketing & Communications Specialist, bringing with him a wealth of operational experience, instructional expertise, and a deep-rooted passion for firearms and training.

“Jeff represents the kind of authenticity and credibility that aligns perfectly with our brands,” said Chris Sprangers, Director of Marketing at CZ. “His experience, both in service to our country and in the firearms community, gives him a unique voice that will resonate with our customers. We’re excited to have him on the CZ team and as a spokesman and advisor for CZ and Dan Wesson.”

“I’ve long respected CZ and Dan Wesson for their commitment to performance and quality,” said Gonzales. “Joining the team is an opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way, whether that’s through training, product development, or connecting with the end user. I’m excited to help tell the story of these brands and support the people who rely on them.”

In his new role, Gonzales will serve in a multifaceted capacity contributing to CZ’s marketing efforts while also acting as a public-facing representative, brand advocate, and product advisor. His presence will extend across social media, digital content, and external media appearances, helping to connect end users with the performance and purpose behind CZ products.

Gonzales brings more than a decade of experience from Naval Special Warfare, where he served as a U.S. Navy SEAL and instructor. His time in service included numerous global deployments and a broad range of operational and training responsibilities, shaping his disciplined approach to both performance and instruction.

Following his military career, Gonzales founded Trident Concepts, a firearms and tactical training company known for its structured curriculum and emphasis on performance standards. Through this work, he has helped influence modern training methodologies and has built a respected reputation within the firearms community.

In addition to his training background, Gonzales has contributed to the industry through media and education, including hosting AR15.com’s Bulletproof Workshoppodcast and previously appearing in Brownells’ Daily Defense video series.

At CZ, Gonzales will also collaborate closely with product development teams, offering insight drawn from real-world experience to help shape future innovations across CZ and Dan Wesson product lines.

His addition underscores CZ’s continued commitment to authenticity, performance, and connecting with the modern firearms enthusiast through trusted voices and proven expertise.

For more information, visit www.czfirearms.com/en-us.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | 3 Comments »