TYR Tactical

Archive for January, 2025

The Next Step for the Artillery Plant in Lithuania: Rheinmetall, EPSO-G Invest and Girait?s Ginkluot?s Gamykla Officially Sign Partnership Agreement

Wednesday, January 8th, 2025

The project of the German-Lithuanian artillery plant in Baisogala continues to move forward. On 20 December 2024, representatives of the German defence technology company Rheinmetall, the Lithuanian energy transmission and exchange group EPSO-G, the EPSO-G company EPSO-G Invest and the Lithuanian company Girait?s ginkluot?s gamykla signed a partnership agreement. This regulates the acquisition of shares in the company Rheinmetall Defence Lietuva, which will build the artillery shell manufacturing plant for 155-mm artillery shells.

The agreement stipulates that Rheinmetall will hold 51 percent of the shares in Rheinmetall Defence Lietuva. 48 percent will be owned by EPSO-G Invest and 1 percent by Girait?s ginkluot?s gamykla.

“At the end of November, we signed a contract for the lease of a land plot for the future factory in the Radviliškis district and the purchase of 155 mm ammunition. With the signed agreement with our Lithuanian partners, we have completed another very important stage and will now plan the construction of the new factory and prepare it for operation together,” says Armin Papperger, Chairman of the Rheinmetall executive board.

“Lithuania’s energy independence and security are inseparable from each other and these are the main strategic directions of the EPSO-G group. In this project, we will use our accumulated experience in implementing strategic infrastructural energy and security projects,” says Tomas Varneckas, CEO of EPSO-G Invest.

According to Violeta Kaš?tien?, interim manager of the Girait?s ginkluot?s gamykla, the involvement of the Girait? Armaments Factory in this project is a significant step, opening up new opportunities for cooperation with one of the world’s leaders in the defense sector. “This partnership project not only strengthens our competencies and role in the Lithuanian defense industry, but also contributes to ensuring the country’s security interests. From an economic point of view, this is a targeted development step, strengthening the potential of the Lithuanian defense industry and promoting its further development,” says V. Kaš?tien?.

The plant near Baisogala is expected to start operations in two years period and, once completed, will be capable of producing tens of thousands of 155 mm calibre artillery shells annually. According to the preliminary calculations total investments into the facility may reach around €260 million. The plant is expected to create at least 150 new direct jobs in the region. 

PROOF Research Names Richard Hunter as New CEO

Wednesday, January 8th, 2025

Visionary leader to drive aerospace and defense growth with proven military-approved Carbon Fiber Technology.

Columbia Falls, Mont. (January 2025) – PROOF Research®, the global leader in composite technology, is proud to announce the appointment of Richard Hunter as its new Chief Executive Officer. With over 25 years of leadership in the aerospace, defense, and industrial manufacturing sectors, Hunter brings a wealth of experience to the company, poised to accelerate growth in its aerospace and defense markets while continuing to innovate in the commercial firearms space for which PROOF Research has built its legacy.

Hunter joins PROOF Research following a successful tenure as CEO of Eaglepicher Technologies, where he spearheaded growth initiatives by building high-performance teams and implementing transformative organizational strategies. Previously, he served as President of L3 Technologies’ Defense Electronic Systems division, where he led the integration of four distinct divisions into a unified entity, delivering synergies in manufacturing and business development.

As an advocate for innovation and operational excellence, Hunter’s leadership is expected to bolster PROOF Research’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions, including their patented match-grade carbon fiber barrels – the only carbon fiber barrels approved for use by the U.S. military.

With its industry-leading advanced composite products already trusted by the military, including for platforms such as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and the B2 Stealth Bomber, PROOF Research is poised to expand its industry-leading firearm, composite technologies into more precise and complex systems utilized in the aerospace and defense markets.

“Joining PROOF Research represents an extraordinary opportunity to harness the company’s unparalleled expertise in advanced composites to address the evolving needs of the aerospace and defense industries,” said Hunter. “The team’s ability to merge next-gen aerospace materials with precision firearms technology sets a new standard for innovation. I look forward to working alongside this talented group to expand PROOF’s reach and capabilities.”

Find out more about PROOF Research barrels and rifles at proofresearch.com.

TacJobs – Green Beret Foundation Seeks Chief Development & Marketing Officer

Wednesday, January 8th, 2025

JOB TITLE:      Chief Development & Marketing Officer

JOB TYPE:        Full-Time, Exempt

REPORTS TO:  President & CEO

LOCATION:       Hybrid* Position With Travel Required

* This Position is Strongly Desired to Be Within Regular Commutable Distance of the Greater Boston Area

Green Beret Foundation is the premier nonprofit that stands with all generations of U.S. Army Special Forces Soldiers, known as Green Berets, as well as  their families, caregivers, and survivors, to reduce the burden of all of life’s transitions through curated programs and services to meet their emotional, physical, social, and financial health needs.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Chief Development & Marketing Officer (CDMO) will be directly responsible for creating, leading, and implementing an integrated resource development and marketing strategy that strengthens The Green Beret Foundation’s visibility, stakeholder engagement, financial resources, and overall impact. The position is responsible for forging new relationships, maintaining and growing existing relationships, and leading efforts to build and manage a high-performing development and marketing team. Serving as a trusted advisor, the CDMO plays a pivotal role in supporting the President & CEO on seven- and eight-figure gift solicitations while embracing and advancing the mission of The Green Beret Foundation.

The role encompasses fundraising, event management, marketing, strategic planning, and organizational leadership responsibilities. The officer will oversee development, communications and marketing strategies, achieving sustainable revenue growth and increase the organization’s brand awareness. Acting as an internal advisor to the CEO and Board, the officer will ensure all strategic initiatives align with the organization’s mission, goals, and standards.

As a member of the Executive Team, the CDMO collaborates with the President & CEO, Chief of Staff, and other senior leaders to provide strategic and operational management. Serve as a thought leader and strategic advisor in advancement of the Green Beret Foundation mission and operation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategy and Mission Advancement

Lead the development and execution of the organization’s strategic plan, adhering to the vision set by the President, CEO, and Board of Directors.

Collaborate with the CEO to create and implement an organizational operating plan.

Act as a key advisor to the CEO and Board on trends in the philanthropic landscape, competitive intelligence, and external risks and opportunities.

Facilitate strategy execution by fostering collaboration across departments and ensuring consistent communication.

Develop organizational metrics and a dashboard to evaluate performance, impact, and overall effectiveness.

Lead a culture that embraces and reflects the mission of The Green Beret Foundation, ensuring alignment in all organizational initiatives. 

Revenue Generation and Development

Lead efforts and individually raise $4 million annually, scaling to $6–8 million within three years, through individual, corporate, foundation, and public sector funding.

Collaborate with the CEO on high-level gift solicitations, with a focus on securing transformative seven- and eight-figure gifts.

Design and implement a framework for individual giving, expanding donor pipelines and increasing sustainable revenue.

Build and grow a comprehensive development team, recruiting top talent and creating a high-performing, mission-driven culture.

Oversee all aspects of the fundraising operation including but not limited to CCV partnerships, individual and major giving, grants & scholarships, foundation giving, strategic and community events and day to day fundraising operations.

Leverage innovative fundraising strategies, including technology-driven solutions, digital campaigns, and online engagement tools.

Create and manage capital campaign strategies, working closely with the Board and CEO.

Ensure fundraising activities and outcomes are aligned with operating needs and strategic priorities.

Marketing and Communications

Oversee marketing and branding strategies to elevate the visibility and public understanding of The Green Beret Foundation’s mission.

Ensure cohesive messaging across all communication platforms, including print, digital, and social media.

Partner with the marketing team to develop creative, high-impact campaigns that resonate with key audiences, stakeholders, and supporters.

Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of marketing and fundraising materials, making data-driven adjustments to maximize engagement.

Work on close cooperation with the program & services team, as well as other key disciplines in the organization to ensure marketing and communication strategies and tactics are aligned with and support mission and operating needs.

Board and Senior Staff Leadership

Collaborate with the CEO, Board, and Executive Team to create and implement an advancement strategy that aligns with organizational goals.

Serve as an ambassador for the organization, articulating the mission to external audiences and cultivating relationships with key stakeholders.

Support the Board and senior staff in cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding gifts and partnerships.

Provide training and mentorship for Board members and senior staff in best practices for fundraising and relationship-building.

Develop a deep commitment to the mission of the Green Beret Foundation.

Internal Management and Infrastructure

Recruit, train, and mentor development, marketing, and advancement staff.

Manage day-to-day operations of the team, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.

Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and reporting for the development and marketing team, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Foster collaboration across departments to create a cohesive and unified organizational culture.

Partner with finance and accounting staff to maintain efficient financial tracking and reporting processes.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position oversees all Development, Marketing, and Advancement staff.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

12 years progressive experience in development with a strategic focus of which 3-5 years experience relates to strategic communications and marketing.

Experience within a nonprofit organization within a military family support services environment or healthcare organization preferred.

Experience working at all levels, from community members and line staff to executives, Board Members and major donors and representatives of complex organizations.

Proven leadership skills and experience building a high-performing team while maximizing outcomes while providing the highest level of mission-impact and support.

Strong collaborator with interest and ability to build relationships at all levels internally and externally.

Proficient knowledge of development and marketing/communications applications and tools, with position-relevent knowledge of Microsoft applications and complex CRM and donor management systems. Blackbaud experience strongly preferred.

Experience in developing presentations and analytics related to position responsibilities and outcomes.

Strong written and verbal communication skiils with ability to communicate at all levels and in a wide variety of formats and audiences.

Skillful navigation skills with strong executive presence and professional demeanor.

Understanding of and/or exposure to military culture and the unique challenges faced by veterans and active-duty service members.

Demonstrated ability to build and maintain partnerships with external stakeholders.

Experience in budgeting, financial management and resource allocation.

Demonstrated experience and competencies in critical ares related to the position including, but not limited to:

Customer and team focus

Ethics, values and integrity

Strategic ability

Outcome orientation

Interpersonal savvy and team building

Subject matter expertise in essential elements of position responsibilities

EDUCATION:

Bachelor’s Degree in business, fundraising, communications, public relations ore related field or directly equivalent experience. Masters Degree strongly preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The role requires regular talking, hearing, sitting, and occasional lifting of up to 30 pounds. Manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination are needed for high-volume keyboard input and data entry.

WORKING HOURS & TRAVEL:

The CDMO Position works a 40-hour week.  Some evening and weekend hours will be needed on occasion to meet the needs of the Green Beret Foundation community and the strategic revenue growth plan for the Foundation. Travel is primarily regional but will from time to time include attendance at key events and meetings throughout the United States, overnight travel.  The CDMO position is strongly desired to be within regular commutable distance of the greater Boston Area. 

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:

This position will report directly to the President & CEO, who will develop a set of performance objectives in partnership with the CDMO.  The President & CEO shall conduct the Development Coordinator’s performance reviews.

The Green Beret Foundation seeks a visionary leader committed to honoring and advancing the legacy of Green Berets while fostering a robust culture of philanthropy and innovation.  Green Beret Foundation is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. Green Beret Foundation participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law. Green Beret Foundation is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities. Green Beret Foundation is a drug-free workplace.

Apply here.

Smith & Wesson Releases Model 1854 Stealth Hunter Series

Wednesday, January 8th, 2025

MARYVILLE, TN., (1/8/2025) –Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, proudly introduces the next evolution of their lever-action rifles: The Model 1854 Stealth Hunter™ Series.

Whether you’re navigating dense forests or taking aim from a distance, the new Model 1854 Stealth Hunter, available in .44 Rem Mag, .45 Colt, and .357 Mag calibers, is engineered for success in the field. Built on the traditional Model 1854 platform, these rifles feature a flat trigger design for consistent finger placement, a large loop lever for easy use with gloves, a removable magazine tube for safe and effortless unloading, and a synthetic stock with textured grip panels for improved control and feel.

In addition to the all-black Armornite® aesthetic, Stealth Hunter rifles come equipped with new upgrades that not only catch the eye but enhance performance right out of the box. Key features include an extended 10.5” Picatinny rail for a broader range of optic use, a newly designed T6 aluminum forend with fifteen M-LOK® compatible slots for accessory attachments, a HIVIZ® H3 fiber optic front sight to improve visibility in both low-light and daylight conditions, and a shortened 16.3-inch 410 stainless-steel barrel that contributes to a lighter overall weight.

“These rifles provide reliability and precision for both hunters and shooting enthusiasts. With the addition of the Stealth Hunter series to the Model 1854 lineup, consumers can now enjoy an even wider selection of calibers, barrel lengths, furniture, and overall aesthetics that are better tailored to meet their specific needs. This collection represents a legacy meticulously designed for performance, ensuring that you can consistently perform at your best,” said Corey Beaudreau, Product Manager, Rifles.

Elevate your legacy with the Model 1854 Stealth Hunter Series and experience the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. For more information, visit www.smith-wesson.com/products/1854.

VKTR Industries LLC Announces New VK-1 Rifle Option in Operational Field Camouflage

Wednesday, January 8th, 2025

VKTR Industries, a manufacturer of premier piston driven AR-15 rifles and accessories, is proud to announce the newest rifle option in their lineup – the 13.7 VK-1 in Operational Field Camouflage.

VKTR Industries has partnered with B5 systems to provide a complete rifle in the new pattern, with full B5 furniture, cerakoted to match the complete receiver set.

“This is truly a special rifle that we added to the lineup.” said Dave Rybacki, the owner of VKTR industries.  “The upgrades we put on the rifle are effective improvements both visually and functionally.”

Key Features of the VK-1 in OFC include:

? Standard addition of the Geissele SSA trigger.

? B5 Bravo Stock and P Grip 23 with custom cerakote workby West Michigan Cerakote.

? B5 Vertical Grip M-MLOK mounted on the rifle in OFC Cerakote.

? Ships with the new VKTR Tactical Selector Lever.

? Available in both variants of the 13.7 PW rifle. (Pinned and welded)

The VK-1 on OFC will be available on a continuous basis and has shipped or is in stock at participating dealers and distributors.  Please see our web-based dealer locator for more information.   www.vktrind.com/dealer-locator

Information on VKTR Industries rifles, dealer programs, or law enforcement sales can be found at www.VKTRind.com or email Eric Luley at eluley@vktrind.com.

Ehmke Manufacturing Co., Inc. Launches Prototyping Partnership Program

Wednesday, January 8th, 2025

Philadelphia, PA — January 8, 2025Ehmke Manufacturing Co., Inc., a premier manufacturer of technical fabric products, is proud to announce the launch of its new Prototyping Partnership Program. This innovative program helps outdoor and tactical gear enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and innovators turn their product ideas into manufacturing-ready prototypes.

For years, Ehmke has partnered with individual clients on prototyping projects, offering expertise on a limited, case-by-case basis. With the overwhelming success of these past collaborations and the growing demand for professional guidance in product development, the company is now making this service available to the public through a structured and scalable program.

“This program is a natural evolution of what we’ve been doing for years—partnering with innovators to turn great ideas into tangible, high-quality products,” said Bob Rosania, CEO and Owner of Ehmke Manufacturing Co., Inc. “We’re proud to offer a structured program that gives entrepreneurs, hobbyists, and industry professionals access to the same expertise and precision our military and industrial clients have trusted for decades.”

What Sets Ehmke’s Program Apart?

The Prototyping Partnership Program offers unique benefits for innovators and gear creators:

Onsite Collaboration: Work directly with Ehmke’s engineering team at their Philadelphia, PA, facility, ensuring hands-on development and personalized solutions.

Flexible Packages: Choose from half-day, full-day, and two-day options to fit your project’s scope and budget.

Expert Guidance: From CAD layouts and pattern development to industrial sewing and prototype refinement, Ehmke provides all services under one roof.

Proven Success: Trusted for over 95 years by military and industrial clients for reliability, precision, and durability.

Manufacturing Flexibility: Participants retain the freedom to take their completed production sample and technical data package to any manufacturer of their choice. For those who choose to manufacture with Ehmke, discounted production rates are available.

Unmatched Standards of Quality and Precision

Ehmke’s compliance with ISO 9001:2015 and AS 9100:2016 standards reflects the company’s commitment to rigorous quality assurance, ensuring all products meet stringent requirements for reliability and durability. Additionally, Ehmke’s Statistical Process Control (SPC) certification, held since 1993, highlights its use of advanced manufacturing techniques to deliver consistent and precise results.

With decades of experience serving the U.S. Department of Defense and industrial clients, Ehmke is uniquely positioned to support innovators whose prototypes require military-grade or industrial specifications.

Past Success Stories

Participants of Ehmke’s earlier prototyping projects have consistently praised the team’s expertise, collaborative approach, and commitment to quality. These success stories are a testament to the company’s dedication to helping clients bring their ideas to life. With the launch of the Prototyping Partnership Program, Ehmke is excited to offer these benefits to an even broader audience.

“Our goal is to take the guesswork out of prototyping by providing a seamless, collaborative experience,” said Daniel Nguyen, Director of Engineering at Ehmke Manufacturing Co., Inc. “With our expertise in technical fabrics and advanced manufacturing processes, clients can focus on refining their vision while we ensure the prototype meets the highest standards of quality and functionality.”

Get Started Today

Have a great idea? Turn it into a manufacturing-ready prototype with Ehmke Manufacturing’s Prototyping Partnership Program. Visit Ehmke Prototyping Partnership Program to learn more and schedule your consultation today.

Dr Mario Amschlinger Assumes Role of CEO at Mehler Systems

Wednesday, January 8th, 2025

As of the start of 2025, Mehler Systems has entered a new phase of leadership.

Dr. Mario Amschlinger, previously CFO/COO of Mehler Systems and Managing Director at Mehler Protection | Body Armour, has assumed the role of CEO. Thomas Homberg, the outgoing CEO, stepped down for personal reasons but will remain with the company as a consultant.

The leadership transition officially took place on January 1, 2025.

Dr. Amschlinger brings a wealth of experience in financial and operational leadership. Since joining Mehler Systems in 2020, he has been instrumental in shaping the company’s strategic and operational direction.

Prior to his role at Mehler Systems, Dr. Amschlinger held key leadership positions at Diehl Group, including CFO at Diehl Metal Applications GmbH & Diehl Advanced Mobility GmbH and General Manager/CFO at Diehl Aviation Hungary Kft., where he oversaw finance, HR, supply chain, and IT. His career also includes corporate controlling roles at Diehl Group and leadership experience at Bosch.

Dr. Amschlinger’s expertise will drive Mehler Systems’ continued mission to provide advanced ballistic protection and tactical gear solutions for the evolving needs of the defence and security industries.

“I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by Thomas Homberg. His contributions have been vital to the group’s success, and I am committed to advancing solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers,” said Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems.

With this leadership transition, Mehler Systems is poised for continued growth and innovation under Dr. Amschlinger’s guidance. The group will remain focused on enhancing product performance and providing high-quality solutions to address the challenges of an ever-changing landscape.

Gilat Receives $9 Million in Orders for Multi-Orbit SkyEdge Platforms

Tuesday, January 7th, 2025

Gilat’s SkyEdge IV and SkyEdge II-c Platforms are used to deliver the widest range of connectivity applications

Petah Tikva, Israel, January 6, 2025 — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions, and services, announced today that the Company has received $9 million in orders from major satellite operators.  The orders are for its advanced satellite communications platforms, SkyEdge IV and SkyEdge II-c equipment and services. Delivery is scheduled within the next 12 months.

The world’s leading satellite operators use Gilat’s cutting-edge SkyEdge technology to provide unparalleled connectivity across multiple satellite constellations. SkyEdge platforms are designed to deliver robust, high-performance satellite communications for a variety of applications, including maritime, cellular backhaul and enterprise solutions.

“We are excited to support satellite operators around the world and being a leading supplier for multi-orbit solutions,” said Hagay Katz, Chief Product and Marketing Officer at Gilat. “Our SkyEdge platforms were designed to meet the demands of next-generation networks, ensuring seamless multi-orbit integration. These orders underscore our dedication to innovation and our ability to empower satellite operators with the flexibility and scalability required to address diverse market needs.”