July 2025 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for July, 2025

DroneShield Showcases Next-Gen Counter-Drone Tech to DHS Leadership

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

DroneShield presented proven capabilities and next-generation technologies to address surging drone threats at America’s borders and critical sites to U.S. Department of Homeland Security

July 30, 2025 – Warrenton, Virginia – DroneShield, a global leader in counter-uncrewed systems (CUxS) technology, proudly participated in a demonstration hosted by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Unmanned Technology Operations Center in Summit Point, West Virginia, on July 24, 2025. The event convened DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, senior DHS officials, and CUAS solutions providers, highlighting the Department’s urgent focus on addressing the escalating drone threats to national security.

This event followed closely behind a recent U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, where Steven Willoughby, Director of the DHS Counter-UAS Program Management Office, highlighted the growing danger drones pose. He testified:

“Nearly every day, transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) use drones to convey illicit narcotics and contraband across U.S. borders and conduct hostile surveillance of law enforcement.”

Secretary Noem, a vocal advocate for expanding CUAS capabilities, emphasized earlier this year during a Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing that:

“United States Coast Guard (USCG) tasks require every cutter to be equipped with CUAS technology.”

Secretary Noem further reinforced this urgency in a recent social media post, stating:
“We’re in the middle of a weapons-technology revolution—and our enemies know it. Drones are now being used to smuggle deadly drugs, target our infrastructure, and spy on U.S. defenses. We must be ready.”

During the demonstration, Secretary Noem met with the DroneShield team and received a briefing on its field-proven counter-drone technologies. These systems have been actively supporting Ukraine’s CUAS efforts since the start of the conflict and continue to evolve to meet a broad spectrum of emerging threats. With more than 11 years of exclusive focus on CUAS technologies, DroneShield has long been an advocate for securing U.S. borders and critical infrastructure from the risks posed by uncrewed aerial systems.

“Never before have we seen such alignment and sense of purpose across all levels of the Department of Homeland Security,” said Matt McCrann, CEO of DroneShield LLC. “The whole-of-agency approach on display at Industry Day demonstrates DHS’ intent to address the surging drone threat with speed, unity, and effectiveness.”

With drone threats steadily rising and impacting U.S. borders, airports, stadiums, and emergency responders, DroneShield remains committed to supporting national security with advanced, mission-ready CUAS capabilities. DroneShield’s solutions are purpose-built and engineered to be simple to train, easy to use, and quick to deploy, giving teams a decisive edge when seconds matter.

“As drone threats continue to evolve rapidly, it is essential that the U.S. and its allies have ready access to trusted, combat-proven countermeasures,” added McCrann.

Tom Branstetter, Vice President of Business Development and Sales at DroneShield, commented, “This demonstration reaffirmed DHS’ focus on taking decisive steps forward – and we’re proud to contribute our expertise and solutions to support that mission.”

“DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Attends Drone Demo” by U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), United States Government Work

Pictured: DroneShield’s Tom Branstetter, VP of Business Development and Sales and Matt McCrann,

Posted in LE, Press Release, UAS | 1 Comment »

Global Ordnance Announces Exclusive Consumer Rebate: Get a Free Vortex SPARC AR with Purchase of Any Monolith Firearm

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

Sarasota, FL — Global Ordnance is excited to announce a powerful new consumer rebate offer launching this summer. From August 1st through October 31st, 2025, customers who purchase any Monolith firearm—whether rifle, pistol, or short-barreled rifle (SBR)—from a participating dealer or directly through www.globalordnance.com, will receive a free Vortex SPARC AR red dot optic, a $279.99 value.

An Elite Optic, On the House

This limited-time rebate underscores Global Ordnance’s commitment to providing exceptional value to firearm enthusiasts. Customers who take advantage of the promotion will receive one of the most trusted and durable red dot sights in its class: the Vortex SPARC AR.

Renowned for its performance and reliability, the SPARC AR features:

• 2 MOA red dot for rapid target acquisition and precision.

• 12 illumination settings, including two night-vision compatible options.

• Shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant construction built to withstand harsh conditions.

• Integrated mount system optimized for AR platforms.

• Extended battery life up to 50,000 hours, with an automatic 12-hour shutoff feature.

The Monolith: Strength Meets Innovation

The Monolith platform—engineered for unmatched rigidity and adaptability—continues to set the standard in modern weapon design. Key features include:

• Monolithic 7075 aluminum upper receiver for superior strength and improved accuracy.

• Fully ambidextrous controls including bolt catch/release and mag release.

• Cold-hammer-forged barrels with QPQ nitriding for enhanced durability.

• Modular architecture compatible with AR-15 components and accessories.

• Adjustable bolt carrier, allowing users to fine-tune performance for suppressor use and reduce gas blowback

• Redesigned recoil spring system to streamline operation and minimize felt recoil

• Available in rifle, pistol, and SBR configurations to meet diverse operational needs.

Whether you’re enhancing a personal collection or upgrading a professional loadout, the Monolith platform delivers exceptional performance and reliability.

How to Claim Your Vortex SPARC AR

After purchasing a qualifying Monolith firearm between August 1 and October 31, 2025, customers can submit their proof of purchase through go.4myrebate.com/go. Upon approval, the free Vortex SPARC AR (valued at $279.99) will be shipped directly to the customer within 12 weeks of submission.

Posted in Advertiser, Contest, Press Release | Comments Off on Global Ordnance Announces Exclusive Consumer Rebate: Get a Free Vortex SPARC AR with Purchase of Any Monolith Firearm

UF PRO Confirms Participation at NTOA 2025

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (28.07.2025)

UF PRO, a leader in tactical apparel designed formilitary, law enforcement, and professional operators, will be exhibiting at the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) Law Enforcement OperationsConference & Trade Show, taking place from 24 to 25 August 2025 at the Gaylord National Harbor in Washington, DC, USA.

The NTOA Conference is a key event for tactical units, trainers, and decision-makers across North America. It offers an opportunity for UF PRO to present its range of advanced tactical clothing systems to a wide audience of professionals working in demanding operational environments.

Visitors to the UF PRO booth 729 will have the opportunity to explore core product lines specifically developed for law enforcement professionals, including lightweight, durable combat uniforms and outerwear engineered to deliver high performance and comfort during demanding operations. The featured products are designed to meet the unique challenges faced by law enforcement operators working in extreme conditions, incorporating advanced materials for flexibility, moisture management, and durability. Selected garments will be available for hands-on inspection and try-on, allowing attendees to closely examine fabric quality and functional design features.

UF PRO’s participation at NTOA 2025 reinforces its commitment to supporting law enforcementprofessionals with reliable, purpose-built clothing solutions.

Further details about the event and UF PRO’s participation can be found at: mehler-systems.com/event/ntoa-2025

Posted in Industry, NTOA, Press Release, Tradeshow | Comments Off on UF PRO Confirms Participation at NTOA 2025

Infantry Ammunition for the Baltic States: Rheinmetall Will Deliver 40mm Ammunition to Lithuania and Hand Grenades to Estonia – Total Order Value Around €33 Million

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

Rheinmetall has received various orders from Estonia and Lithuania for the delivery of infantry ammunitions. The orders have a total value of around €33 million.

Estonia awarded Rheinmetall a framework contract in the second quarter of 2025 for the delivery of hand grenades. Splinter grenades are to be delivered in 2026 and 2027, and offensive hand grenades from 2026 to 2029 – in significant numbers in each case. The order is worth around €17 million gross.

Back in December 2024, Lithuania had already placed an order with Rheinmetall for several tens of thousands of 40 mm x 46 high-explosive fragmentation (HE Frag) combat cartridges. The order is worth around €16 million gross. The ammunition is to be delivered in 2026 and 2027.

As a “one-stop shop” for 40 mm systems Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading suppliers of ammunition, weapon systems and firing control systems in this field. Rheinmetall’s 40 mm x 46 low-velocity ammunition can be used in all standard grenade launchers and attachable grenade launchers in this calibre. It reaches a velocity of 76 m/s and has an effective range of 400 metres. Other NATO countries also use this modern ammunition.

Compared to LV cartridges, the new 40 mm x 46 Medium Velocity (MV) ammunition has an acceleration of around 100 m/s and a flat trajectory, so targets can be attacked faster and hence, increases the effective range to 900 m. In 2025, Rheinmetall will bring its Squad Support Weapon 40 to series production, the world’s first magazine-fed automatic shoulder-fired grenade launcher, capable of firing MV and LV ammunition. In combination with the broad spectrum of Rheinmetall’s 40 mm LV/MV ammunition portfolio, infantry users will achieve unprecedented flexibility and effectiveness on the battlefield.

Rheinmetall’s 40 mm ammunition range also includes 40 mm x 53 ammunition (high velocity) for automatic grenade launchers. This has a muzzle velocity of 130 m/s and a range of up to 2,000 metres.

Posted in Ammo, Contracts, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Infantry Ammunition for the Baltic States: Rheinmetall Will Deliver 40mm Ammunition to Lithuania and Hand Grenades to Estonia – Total Order Value Around €33 Million

Reptilia Launches 35mm ROF-Diving Board Mount for Laser Range Finders

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

Hillsborough, North Carolina, July 31 2025 – Reptilia®, an industry leader in precision mounting solutions, is proud to announce the release of the 35mm ROF™-Diving Board, an accessory mounting platform designed specifically for use with Reptilia AUS™ and Geissele® Super Precision™ 35mm mounts.

Originally developed to meet the demands of professional end users, the ROF-Diving Board adds a MIL-STD-1913 rail forward of the primary optic, providing an ideal mounting position for laser range finders, red dot sights, or other accessories without adding unnecessary bulk or compromising ergonomics.

In addition to accessory placement, the Diving Board also increases the structural support of the optic tube by reusing the original ring cap from the host mount. This dual-purpose design delivers improved rigidity and performance in a streamlined, lightweight package.

The 35mm ROF-Diving Board is optimized for full-size precision optics and is immediately available.

Key Features:

? Compatible with Reptilia AUS™ and Geissele® 35mm Super Precision™ mounts

? MIL-STD-1913 accessory rail for LRF

? Reuses host ring cap to increase mounting surface and rigidity

? Machined from billet 7075-T6 aluminum

? MIL-STD Type III hardcoat anodized

? 100% Made in the USA

For more information or to purchase, visit: reptiliacorp.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Optics, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Reptilia Launches 35mm ROF-Diving Board Mount for Laser Range Finders

Revision Military’s MerlinHawk Goggle Kit Awarded NSN for U.S. Military Use

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

ESSEX JUNCTION, VT — July 31, 2025 — Revision Military’s most advanced ballistic goggle, the MerlinHawk® Goggle System, has officially been assigned a National Stock Number (NSN), confirming its approval for procurement and integration into the U.S. military supply system. The MerlinHawk Kit includes:

MerlinHawk Goggle (Tan499 frame, strap, and cover)
Clear and Smoke interchangeable lenses
Cleaning cloth
Anti-fog cloth
Storage pouch
Rx Connector B

MerlinHawk Goggle Kit NSN

The MerlinHawk represents the pinnacle of Revision’s protective eyewear innovation—engineered for adaptability, mission-specific performance, and extended-wear comfort. It delivers superior ballistic protection, best-in-class anti-fog capability with OcuMax®-coated lenses, and seamless compatibility with helmet systems and prescription eyewear solutions.

“Our commitment to soldier protection drives every innovation we bring to market,” said Karan Rai, CEO of Revision Military. “The NSN assignment for MerlinHawk is a major milestone—it validates the goggle’s mission-readiness and simplifies its acquisition for units seeking top-tier protection and flexibility in extreme environments.”

Soldier Holding MerlinHawk Goggle Kit

Key Features of the MerlinHawk Goggle System

MissionSwitch® side clips for customizable wide or narrow fit
GrypMag® magnetic interface for facial seal integration with Gryphon Gaiter and Balaclavas
Integrated top and side vents for enhanced airflow and fog mitigation
Flat temple design for optimal helmet fit
Interchangeable clear and smoke lenses with 100% UV protection
Optional lens technologies including I-Vis® for enhanced contrast and LazrBloc® for laser protection in threat environments
Compatible with Revision’s UPLC Rx Carrier system for prescription wearers
Exceeds U.S. military impact requirements; certified to ANSI Z87.1 and EN166 standards

MerlinHawk Goggle Kit Soldier Side Profile

Ordering Information

The newly issued NSN (4240-01-729-0223) ensures the MerlinHawk Kit is cataloged for streamlined acquisition and lifecycle support through U.S. military logistics systems. This designation facilitates broad deployment and simplifies inventory management across service branches.

The MerlinHawk Kit (NSN: 4240-01-729-0223 | P/N: 4-2100-9001) is available through:

DLA TLS Program
GSA Advantage
FedMall
Direct purchase from Revision Military

For sales inquiries, contact sales@revisionmilitary.com
For product details, visit: https://revisionmilitary.com/gryphon/merlinhawk-goggle-system-u-s-military-kit

MerlinHawk Gryphon Field Gaiter Tan499

About GrypMag

GrypMag is Revision’s proprietary magnetic interface technology, designed to integrate protective eyewear with compatible headwear. Built-in magnetic anchor points enable secure, hands-free attachment of Gryphon Gaiters and Gryphon Balaclavas, forming a complete facial seal for dust, wind, and particulate protection in austere conditions.

About Revision Military

Revision Military designs and manufactures purpose-built protective eyewear for military and tactical users worldwide. A U.S.-owned company headquartered in Vermont, Revision delivers advanced solutions that combine ballistic protection, anti-fog technology, laser defense, and integration with mission-critical equipment. Over the past 20 years, Revision has supplied millions of eyewear systems to U.S. and allied forces and continues to innovate to meet the evolving needs of modern warfare.
Learn more at www.revisionmilitary.com

Posted in Advertiser, Eyepro, Press Release | Comments Off on Revision Military’s MerlinHawk Goggle Kit Awarded NSN for U.S. Military Use

Extrema Ratio – Vipera Total Black M390

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

The Vipera takes its DNA from Extrema Ratio’s Requiem and Mamba models, combing their tactical and survival qualities into a single, streamlined fixed blade.

Weighing just 3.5 oz, it features a flat grind, elongated drop point blade and a Forprene handle with guard for slip-free grip. I measures it at just over 9″ overall, with a 4.25″ blade.

It is available in two different steels. This is the M390 (61 HRC) with a blued blade, but it’s also available in Nitrogen steel in Ranger Green, Black, and HCS.

The ASPIS sheath (nylon) can be attached to belts, backpacks, or PALs.

Learn more at extremaratio.com/prodotto/vipera-total-black-m390.

Posted in International, Knives | Comments Off on Extrema Ratio – Vipera Total Black M390

919th SOW Ushers in New Chapter, Returns to Its Gunship Roots

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla —

The 711th Special Operations Squadron began a new era of combat readiness during a change of command and mission conversion-ceremony at Hurlburt Field, Florida, July 11, 2025.

“This transition shows the strategic depth the Reserve offers to the warfighter,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Matthew Barry, 919th Special Operations Group commander and presiding officer. “Our members have a long history of being highly trained and ready to execute the mission when called upon. This legacy of service makes the 919th Special Operations Wing the perfect complement to the gunships already formidable capabilities.”

During the ceremony, Lt. Col. John Duke relinquished command of the 711th SOS to Lt. Col. Jason Fox, with Air Commandos, squadron alumnus and community partners in attendance to honor the unit’s rich heritage.

The event comes as the 711th SOS undertakes a major transformation transitioning to an operational AC-130J Ghostrider gunship mission and moving from Duke Field, Florida to nearby Hurlburt Field. The AC-130J Ghostrider is renowned for its precision strike capabilities, advanced avionics, and versatile firepower.

The move reinforces the wing’s partnership with active-duty AC-130J aircrews and reunites the unit with Reservists performing aircraft maintenance, ensuring seamless Total Force Integration.

“What the men and women of the 711th have done over the last 12 years as combat aviation advisors is nothing short of extraordinary,” Duke said. “They took on missions in some of the most complex environments in the world—building stability, strengthening partnerships, and representing the very best of what our Air Force can be. I’m proud of what we accomplished and confident this next chapter will honor that legacy.”

During his command of the 711th SOS, Duke helped oversee the final chapter of the wing’s C-145A Combat Coyote operational mission, which included aviation foreign internal defense and special operations mobility training. That legacy now sets the foundation for the unit’s return to gunship operations.

The transition marks a return of the AC-130 gunship mission to the 919th SOW. From 1975 – 1995, the 919th SOW flew the AC-130A Spectre gunship, supporting combat operations and NASA launch missions across the eastern U.S.

By Liz Easterling

919th Special Operations Wing

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, SOF | 2 Comments »