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NSWC Crane Sailor Brings Fleet to the Lab to Elevate Electromagnetic Warfare Capabilities

May 18th, 2026

A Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane) Sailor and Avionics Technician has spent his decade-long career honing his knowledge and expertise in electromagnetic warfare to support the Fleet. Avionics Technician Petty Officer Second Class (AT2) Jeffrey Weaver joined the U.S. Navy after receiving his bachelor’s degree. He specialized in maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of transmitter and radar packages to support F/A-18 platforms and ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming Systems.

In 2023, AT2 Weaver transferred to NSWC Crane, where he continues to support the Navy’s mission and capabilities by bringing operator-level feedback to engineering building and maintaining tools. This includes scheduled and unscheduled repair of ALQ-99 transmitters, which protect aircraft such as the F/A-18 by disrupting enemy radar.

Working at a federal research and development laboratory forges strong bonds and enables collaboration between the military and civilian workforce.

“The highlight of my time at Crane would be the conversion of the Low Band Transmitter to Low Band Consolidated Transmitters for domestic and Foreign Military Sales programs,” said AT2 Weaver. “The knowledge shared and gained from my time here [is important to me]. I was able to share my expertise on Low Band Transmitters, and my experiences from working in the Fleet with the engineers and civilian technicians. I gained a lot of new insights and knowledge working on transmitters at a deeper level than many of my fellow service members will ever experience.”

AT2 Weaver said his time at NSWC Crane will be valuable as he continues his career.

“I believe the role of a technician in this field is becoming more crucial as technology continues to improve and develop,” he said. “Being able to maintain and repair assets in the Fleet with the knowledge gained here will only improve mission readiness. Developing the skills that allow the Navy to maintain air superiority to protect our aircraft and troops is vital in our nation’s current climate.”

Knowing the impact of his efforts is motivating for AT2 Weaver.

“I find the work important because the work we do here helps Fleet Readiness Centers like Whidbey, the ships in the fleet, and ultimately the pilots flying dangerous missions overseas. Knowing what I work on can help the Navy to fly more missions safely is very important to me.”

Story by Sarah Oh

Posted in EW, Guest Post, Navy | No Comments »

PROOF Research Unveils New Shorter Barrel Configurations in the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0

May 17th, 2026

COLUMBIA FALLS, Mont. – May 14, 2026 – PROOF Research is proud to announce the launch of shorter barrel configurations for the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0. Built on a commitment to innovation, performance and advanced materials, PROOF Research’s latest barrel options represent a refined approach for both the modern hunter and marksman. Both the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0 in shorter barrel configurations are now available in Tactical Flat Dark Earth (TFDE) and the all-new Midnight color, offering shooters greater customization options alongside PROOF Research’s carbon fiber technology.

With the launch of shorter barrel lengths, the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0 maintain PROOF Research’s lightweight characteristics while expanding usable applications. The more compact configurations improve overall maneuverability while retaining the precision and performance that shooters expect from the Elevation platform. Additionally, all barrel lengths feature a threaded 5/8-24 muzzle with thread protector, providing shooters with enhanced suppressor compatibility.

The PROOF Elevation 2.0 is a purpose-built hunting rifle that offers exceptional accuracy and seamless portability. Designed for backcountry pursuits and extended time in the field, the hunting rifle pairs a PROOF carbon fiber barrel and stock with a Zermatt Arms Origin action and a TriggerTech trigger. Balanced for mobility and precision, this rifle is engineered to perform across a wide range of hunting applications. The PROOF Elevation 2.0 is available in barrel lengths of 16.5″, 18″, 20″ or 22″, depending on the chosen caliber. With nine caliber offerings, including 22 Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7 BC, 7 PRC and .300 PRC. MSRP ranges from $3,199 – $3,499.

The Elevation MTR 2.0 utilizes the same advanced lightweight technology for recreational hunters and shooters seeking competition-level precision and repeatability. Designed for long-range and target shooting, this rifle features a PROOF Sendero contour carbon fiber barrel, PROOF carbon fiber stock, Zermatt Arms Origin action, detachable box magazine and TriggerTech trigger. The Elevation MTR 2.0 is available in barrel lengths of 16.5”, 18”, 20” and 22”, depending on the chosen caliber. With 13 caliber offerings, including .223 Rem, 22 Creedmoor and .338 ARC. MSRP ranges from $3,499 – $3,899.

“Our expansion of the Elevation platform reflects PROOF Research’s commitment to performance and innovation,” said Brandon Hulzebosch, director of sales and marketing. “With the new barrel length configurations, we’ve further refined the technology and ergonomics to ensure the highest level of accuracy and precision in the field or on the range.”

With the introduction of the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0 in new barrel lengths, PROOF Research continues to push boundaries in rifle technology. By combining advanced carbon barrel technology with precision manufacturing, these expanded offerings in the Elevation series deliver a new standard for shooters who demand the highest level of performance.

For more information about Proof Research, visit ProofResearch.com.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | Comments Off on PROOF Research Unveils New Shorter Barrel Configurations in the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0

Open House at the Foreign Legion Recruitment Group – May 30 and 31, 2026

May 17th, 2026

The famed French Foreign Legion has shared this press release with us. Please excuse any translation errors as it was provided in French and I have had to translate it to English.

In English

The Foreign Legion Recruitment Group, based at Fort de Nogent in Fontenay-sous-Bois, is pleased to announce that it will be hosting its first-ever Open Days on May 30 and 31, 2026.

This unprecedented event continues the commemorative initiatives undertaken in honor of the 11th Foreign Infantry Regiment—a unit whose regimental flag has been proudly borne by the Legion’s recruiters since 2018.

A PROGRAM RICH IN TRADITION AND FESTIVITIES

SATURDAY, MAY 30, 2026: The day will begin at 10:30 AM with a military ceremony paying tribute to the 11th Foreign Infantry Regiment.

This ceremony will be distinguished by the first-ever appearance of the Foreign Legion Band at Fort de Nogent, and will be presided over by General Cyrille Youchtchenko, Commander of the Foreign Legion.

The ceremony will be followed by the opening of the fairgrounds, which this year will feature numerous rides, military demonstrations, and entertainment for visitors of all ages throughout the afternoon.

In the early evening, visitors can attend the election of “Miss Képi Blanc”—an iconic event that will crown the Legion’s beauty queen for the coming year.

The evening will continue with a unique musical and pyrotechnic display on the parade ground, followed by the traditional “Legionnaire’s Ball,” where guests can dance until 2:00 AM.

SUNDAY, MAY 31, 2026: The fairgrounds will open their gates at 11:30 AM for another full day of festivities.

The highlight of this second day will be the raffle drawing at 5:30 PM, offering numerous prizes to be won.

The Open Days will conclude at 9:00 PM, bringing to a close a weekend dedicated to shared experiences, discovery, and the enduring traditions of the Foreign Legion. ON-SITE DINING: Throughout the weekend, a varied selection of food and drink options will be available to visitors. Notably, a special food truck will be hosted by Michelin-starred chef Thierry Marx, who will offer a set meal—including a hamburger, organic beer, and a pastry—for just 12 euros, combining conviviality with gastronomic quality right at the heart of the event.

FORT DE NOGENT: A MAJOR RECRUITMENT HUB: Since 1962, Fort de Nogent has served as a key hub for Foreign Legion recruitment. Each year, more than 6,000 candidates volunteer, yet only 1,200 will ultimately join the ranks.

En Français

Le Groupement de recrutement de la Légion étrangère, basé au fort de Nogent à Fontenay-sous-Bois, a le plaisir d’annoncer l’organisation, pour la première fois, de ses portes ouvertes les 30 et 31 mai 2026.

Cet événement inédit s’inscrit dans la continuité des actions de mémoire menées autour du 11e régiment étranger d’infanterie, dont les légionnaires recruteurs portent le drapeau depuis 2018.

UN PROGRAMME RICHE EN TRADITIONS ET EN FESTIVITÉS SAMEDI 30 MAI 2026 : La journée débutera à 10h30 par une cérémonie militaire, en hommage au 11e régiment étranger d’infanterie, sera réhaussée par la présence inédite au Fort de Nogent de la Musique de la Légion étrangère et sera présidée par le général Cyrille Youchtchenko, commandant la Légion étrangère.

Elle sera suivie de l’ouverture de la kermesse, qui proposera cette année de nombreux manèges, démonstrations militaires et animations pour petits et grands tout au long de l’après-midi.

En début de soirée, les visiteurs pourront assister à l’élection de Miss Képi Blanc, événement emblématique qui consacrera la reine de beauté légionnaire pour une année.

La soirée se poursuivra avec un spectacle musical et pyrotechnique inédit sur la place d’armes, avant d’aller danser au traditionnel bal du légionnaire jusqu’à 2h du matin.

DIMANCHE 31 MAI 2026 : La kermesse ouvrira ses portes à partir de 11h30, pour une nouvelle journée de festivités. Point d’orgue de cette seconde journée : le tirage de la tombola à 17h30, offrant de nombreux lots à gagner.

Les portes ouvertes se clôtureront à 21h, après un week-end placé sous le signe du partage, de la découverte et de la tradition légionnaire.

RESTAURATION SUR PLACE : Tout au long du week-end, une offre de restauration variée sera proposée aux visiteurs. Un food truck exceptionnel sera notamment animé par le chef cuisinier étoilé Thierry Marx, qui proposera une formule comprenant hamburger, bière bio et pâtisserie pour seulement 12 euros, permettant de conjuguer convivialité et qualité gastronomique au cœur de l’événement.

FORT DE NOGENT ; UN HAUT LIEU DU RECRUTEMENT : Depuis 1962, le Fort de Nogent est un point clé du recrutement légionnaire. Chaque année, plus de 6000 candidats se portent volontaires mais seuls 1200 rejoindront

Finis

Posted in Forces Focus, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Wiley X Served as Official Sponsor and Partner of the 15th Annual Boot’n & Shoot’n

May 17th, 2026

Frisco, TX – [May 12, 2026] Wiley X proudly served as an official sponsor, partner, and ambassador of Boot’n & Shoot’n, the annual patriotic fundraising event hosted by Valor Mission Project, which took place Thursday, April 9, at Dallas Gun Club in Lewisville, Texas.

Back for its 15th anniversary, Boot’n & Shoot’n is celebrated as “The Most Patriotic Day in Texas,” and has raised more than $10 million to date. Proceeds from the event benefitted Valor Mission Project, a Plano, Texas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports organizations such as Brain Treatment Foundation, which helps veterans living with traumatic brain injury, and Third Option Foundation, which provides emergency assistance to members of the intelligence community and their families.

For the second consecutive year, Wiley X was an official sponsor and partner and supported the event through monetary contributions, auction product donations, and giveaway items for attendees and veterans. This continued partnership reflects Wiley X’s commitment to honoring those who serve and supporting organizations that provide critical resources to active-duty service members, military veterans, and their families.

For more information about Wiley X and its give-back initiatives, visit www.wileyx.com. For more information about Boot’n & Shoot’n, visit www.bootshoot.com.

Posted in Eyepro, Fundraising, Press Release | No Comments »

Here We Stand – 18 Years On

May 17th, 2026

Today we celebrate our 18th anniversary of daily publication with this 42,658th post. It’s been a great trip and we look forward to many more.

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Botach Named Benelli’s 2025 Dealer of the Year

May 16th, 2026

LAS VEGAS, NV — Benelli has named Botach Inc. its 2025 Dealer of the Year. The award recognizes Botach for its sales volume, technical depth, and long service to federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Botach has grown into one of the largest and most-trusted suppliers of duty firearms, optics, body armor, and mission-critical gear to agencies across the United States.

A Heavy Hitter in LE Contracting

Botach holds active vendor relationships with thousands of law enforcement agencies, military units, and federal contracting offices, and is a registered supplier across multiple government procurement platforms. Recognition from Benelli, one of the most respected shotgun manufacturers in the world, reflects how far that footprint now reaches.

Botach continues to scale its LE-focused operations across duty-grade shotguns, patrol rifles, optics, protective equipment and all other Tactical Gear. Botach’s dedicated agency sales team handles bulk procurement, agency demos, police trades, and customized loadouts for departments transitioning between platforms.

The Shotgun’s Return to Patrol

Botach’s win arrives at a turning point for the 12-gauge in American policing. After two decades in the patrol rifle’s shadow, the shotgun is back.

Two mission profiles are driving the resurgence. The first is load flexibility. A single shotgun can run buckshot, slugs, less-lethal munitions, breaching rounds, and specialty loads inside the same shift. No other system in the patrol fleet covers that range. For warrant service, building clearing, crowd management, animal control, and vehicle disabling, the platform remains a proven tool.

The second is airborne. Small unmanned aerial systems have moved counter-sUAS planning onto every chief’s desk. Contraband drops over prison yards, unauthorized overflights of stadiums and federal buildings, and reconnaissance flights over critical infrastructure are now routine. Electronic countermeasures are expensive and legally complicated. A semi-auto 12-gauge loaded with anti-drone shells is neither. The shotgun has re-emerged as the most accessible and effective short-range counter-drone tool an officer can carry.

“The shotgun is one of the most adaptable tools an agency can deploy,” Botach added. “From less-lethal response to anti-drone work, departments are realizing the 12-gauge isn’t outdated. It’s evolving. We are seeing record demand from agencies upgrading to modern semi-auto platforms like the Benelli M4.”

Why Benelli

The Benelli M4 Platform is in service with the United States Marine Corps and dozens of federal and municipal agencies, and is widely regarded as one of the most reliable combat shotguns in production. Botach has been a long-standing authorized Benelli dealer, supplying individual officers and full agency contracts with M4, M2, M3, Nova, and Super Nova platforms.

“Benelli Law Enforcement is proud to partner with Botach as we strive to bring the best duty use shotguns to Law Enforcement personnel nationwide,” said Jeff Sterner, National Sales Manager – LE/GOV, Benelli USA.

The Dealer of the Year recognition is awarded on sales volume to LE and government customers, quality of technical support and warranty handling, inventory consistency during periods of high demand, and sustained partnership across the LE community.

About Botach Inc.

Botach Inc. is a U.S.-based supplier of tactical equipment, firearms, optics, body armor, and mission-critical gear, with a specialized focus on law enforcement, military, and government contracting. Headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, Botach serves Military, Federal Agencies, State and Municipal Police Departments, Sheriff’s Offices, Corrections Departments, and qualified professionals nationwide. The company is an authorized dealer for leading manufacturers across the law enforcement and tactical industry.

For agency sales, bulk procurement, and government contracting inquiries, visit botach.com.

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FirstSpear to Exhibit at SOF Week 2026, Showcasing Recon K9 Integration and Maritime Capabilities

May 16th, 2026

FENTON, Mo. (May 14, 2026) — FirstSpear®, the industry leader in innovation and standard-setting load-bearing technology and personal protective equipment, will exhibit at SOF Week 2026, taking place May 18–21, 2026, in Tampa, Florida. FirstSpear’s booth will be located in the Bayshore Ballroom at the Hilton Tampa Downtown as part of SOF Select, a focused industry exhibition running alongside the main SOF Week event. The booth will showcase FirstSpear’s full platform lineup alongside the newly integrated Recon K9® brand, with live demonstrations scheduled throughout the week.

SOF Week is the premier annual convention for the global special operations community, co-hosted by U.S. Special Operations Command and the Global SOF Foundation, drawing operators, acquisition leaders, government officials, and industry partners from around the world.

Recon K9 Live Demonstration

On Tuesday, May 19, FirstSpear will host a live Multi-Purpose Canine (MPC) demonstration in the courtyard of the Hilton Tampa Downtown, led by Jason Watson, founder of Recon K9.

The demonstration will feature a working K9 outfitted in Recon K9’s DT Alpha™ modular vest system, complete with an integrated camera rigging to showcase real-world operational capability, modular load carriage, and the equipment standard trusted by military, law enforcement, and federal agency K9 teams.

FirstSpear announced an exclusive, ten-year licensing and operations agreement with Recon K9, through which FirstSpearhas assumed full responsibility for the sales, marketing, manufacturing, distribution, and logistics of the Recon K9 brand, with Watson joining the FirstSpear team as part of the transition.

“In the SOF community, the K9 is not merely an asset; they are a fellow operator,” said Jon Laplume, FirstSpear co-founder and vice president of SOF Strategy and Product Development. “Our integration of Recon K9 applies FirstSpear’s material science and manufacturing precision to these products. We are making a strategic commitment to the safety and lethality of the entire team.

Featured Recon K9 products on display will include the DT Alpha Vest™ with Coverlet System™, OTB Ruck™, and Aviation Parachute Bag™.

Maritime Capabilities Demonstration with Prime Hall and Deep End Fitness

On Wednesday, May 20, FirstSpear will lead an off-site product demonstration at Bobby Hicks Pool (4120 W. Mango Ave., Tampa, FL 33616), running from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The demonstration will be supported by Deep End Fitness and Prime Hall, FirstSpear’s lead maritime Vanguard.

Hall, a former U.S. Marine Raider and water survival instructor, was appointed to the FirstSpear Vanguard Program earlier this year. In that role, he serves as a subject matter expert in FirstSpear maritime platforms. The demonstration will highlight the AAC Frog™ Kit (Assaulter Armor Carrier Frog Kit), including the patented Cummerbund Tactical Aid to Flotation (CTAF)™, which has become the standard for maritime operations across USSOCOM, the U.S. Air Force, and the U.S. Coast Guard.

“When seconds count, our maritime operators need equipment that helps them remain undetected, agile, and mission-ready,” said Hall. “The AAC-FROG and CTAF systems were engineered to provide that advantage, combining patented, low-profile design with industry-leading buoyancy, giving operators more lift, more mobility, and more survivability when it matters most.”

Booth and Product Focus

FirstSpear’s SOF Select booth will feature its full maritime and aviation platform suite, including the AAC Frog™ Kit, ABAV™ (Aircrew Body Armor Vest), CTAF™, FirstSpear LVPC™ (Low Visibility Plate Carrier), and new SOF requirement-driven chest rig configurations, alongside the full Recon K9® product lineup.

For technical inquiries related to K9, flotation, CTAF™, AAC-FROG, or other FirstSpear products, visit the FirstSpear booth.To request a meeting during SOF Week, contact sales@First-Spear.com

Posted in Advertiser, Press Release, SOF Week | No Comments »

The Cross-Domain Contact Layer: Army Advances Multi-Domain Command-Pacific Following Successful Operational Experiment

May 16th, 2026

HONOLULU— The U.S. Army is moving forward with the establishment of Multi-Domain Command-Pacific (MDC-PAC) following a successful multidomain command experiment that demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating maneuver formations with advanced multidomain capabilities at the theater level. The initiative combines the 7th Infantry Division and the 1st Multi-Domain Task Force into a theater-enabling joint force integrator designed to synchronize multidomain effects across the Indo-Pacific.

According to the MDC-PAC Deputy Commander for Support Col. Todd Burroughs, the effort originated from a December 2024 operational experiment that tested a combined two-star headquarters capable of integrating multidomain operations for the joint force. “What we did in December 2024 is we ran a multidomain command experiment where we combined the 7th Infantry Division and the 1st Multi-Domain Task Force,” said Burroughs. “We did a proof of principle for a two-star headquarters as a joint force integrator and a theater-enabling command to integrate multidomain capabilities at the theater level.” Burroughs said the success of the exercise directly informed the Army Transformation Initiative and accelerated development of the new command structure. “That led to the Army Transformation Initiative after the efficacy of having that two-star command was proven during the exercise,” said Burroughs.

The new command merges the 7th Infantry Division’s two Stryker infantry brigades with the multidomain fires, cyber, space, electronic warfare and intelligence capabilities developed by the 1st MDTF. Burroughs described Multi-Domain Command-Pacific as functioning similarly to a modern covering force for the joint force — operating independently forward of the main body to develop the situation, conduct reconnaissance and counter-reconnaissance operations, and disrupt enemy systems before decisive operations begin. “We see Multi-Domain Command-Pacific as a covering force for the joint force,” Burroughs said. “They are self-contained and operating independently from the main body, developing the situation, preventing enemy observation and preventing the enemy from directing indirect fires.”

At the center of the command’s operational approach is the Cross-Domain Contact Layer (CDCL). Burroughs explained the concept as a network of distributed multidomain teams capable of sensing, identifying and rapidly converging kinetic and non-kinetic effects from multiple locations and domains simultaneously. “Once they get good target-quality data, they’re executing non-kinetic and kinetic effects from multiple formations in order to create maximum effect,” Burroughs said. “The operational framework we use to do that is the Cross-Domain Contact Layer.”

The CDCL framework integrates four primary components: -Integrated sensor arrays operating across air, land, maritime, cyber and space domains. -Layered agile effects formations combining precision fires with scalable, lower-cost autonomous systems. -Agentic artificial intelligence-enabled command and control systems designed to synchronize sensing and effects. -Durable force disposition capable of sustaining operations inside anti-access and area denial environments.

The command is also incorporating lessons learned from ongoing global conflicts, including drone warfare and integrated air defense operations observed in Europe and the Middle East. “We built the CDCL in terms of the Indo-Pacific,” Burroughs said, “but we think you could probably pick that up and apply it elsewhere with equal effect.” Army leaders said Multi-Domain Command-Pacific will continue refining the concept through future exercises, experimentation and integration with allies, partners and industry. “I think our allies and partners are pretty excited,” Burroughs said. “The biggest challenge right now is ingesting the data and publishing it back out in a usable format so everybody can use what the MDC can bring.”

The activation of Multi-Domain Command-Pacific represents a significant milestone in the Army’s modernization effort and its broader effort to adapt to the evolving character of warfare in contested environments. As a theater enabling command and a joint force enabler, Multi-Domain Command-Pacific plays a vital role in providing the Joint Force cross-domain solutions designed to create multiple dilemmas and neutralize adversary anti-access and area denial networks.

Story by SSG Brandon Rickert

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