October 2025 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for October, 2025

Firebird Electro-Optics Launches LEP-MINI Series of Illunimators

Monday, October 27th, 2025

Firebird Electro-Optics announces the launch of the LEP-MINI Series, a compact family of high-intensity illuminators featuring advanced Laser-Excited Phosphor (LEP) technology. Delivering over 103,000 candela in a compact footprint, the lineup includes four precision-built configurations—EDC, DTY, WM35, and WM65—each designed for specific mission profiles. Built for professional use, the LEP-MINI Series combines extreme beam control, efficiency, and modularity, setting a new standard in white light performance.

Features:

• Candela: 103,000 candela.

• Runtime: ~45 minutes (18350) – 60 minutes (18650)

• Range: 600-1000m depending on weather conditions.

• LEP vs LED: LEP (Laser-Excited Phosphor) uses a focused laser to excite a phosphor element, producing a visible white beam with substantially higher candela for a given lumen count. In practice that means greater throw and a sharper hotspot with less spill compared to equivalent-lumen LEDs.

• Compatibility: Works with Surefire scout tailcaps, Haley Strategic Precision / Arisaka mounts, and Unity switches.

website: www.firebirdeo.com

Posted in Lights, Press Release | No Comments »

Jumping for Gold at Skydiving Titles

Monday, October 27th, 2025

ADF and civilian skydivers compete in a formation skydiving serial during the New South Wales Skydiving Championships in Moruya. Photo: Rod White.

Australian Defence Force personnel dominated at the NSW and Queensland State Formation Skydiving Championships held in Moruya, Tully and Toogoolawah.

Personnel from Army, Navy and Air Force won gold in formation and vertical formation events at the championships, held from October 3 to 6.

Plummeting towards Earth at terminal velocity, competitors performed a predetermined set of formations in about 35 seconds.

ADF Parachuting Association president Major Holly Godwin said a camera person jumps out with them, filming the team doing the formations. The footage then goes to a judge who scores the routine.

“The team that completes the most moves within the time allocated scores the most points. You need to finish with the highest score to win,” Major Godwin said.

A serial begins with kit preparation on the ground: suit up, altimeter, parachute, check.

Then it’s 15 minutes in a plane to 14,000 feet. Fifty seconds in freefall. Thirty-five seconds to perform. Deploy parachutes at 4500 feet and float back to the ground in about two minutes.

“Then everyone high-fives each other when they land safely,” Major Godwin said.

For formation, a team of skydivers builds geometric patterns in the sky with their bellies to the Earth.

Vertical formation is similar, except divers adopt high-speed positions, with their head or feet pointed straight towards the ground. This reduces drag, increases speed, and makes for a more challenging serial.

The association is looking for new skydivers to join. An Australian Parachute Federation B-licence is required to get on board.

While skydiving can be expensive, the association covers members’ costs for competitions and events while representing the ADF.

Anyone interested in joining the ADF Parachuting Association should email sky.diving@defence.gov.au

By Sergeant Matt Bickerton, Australian Army

Posted in Guest Post, International, Parachuting | No Comments »

Exhibitor Registration and Positions Open for Industry Day at the Range 2026

Sunday, October 26th, 2025

BOULDER CITY, Nev. – October 24, 2025 – SHOT Show® Industry Day at the Range, the highly anticipated hands-on event held annually the day before SHOT Show®, is excited to announce that a limited number of exhibitor shooting positions remain available. The annual event will take place on January 19, 2026, at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada.

As the only official range event associated with SHOT Show, Industry Day at the Range offers an unmatched opportunity for exhibitors to launch new products, connect with influential media and attendees and gain early momentum going into SHOT Show. This exclusive event provides direct, hands-on exposure in a real-world shooting environment that maximizes brand visibility and industry impact.

A select number of positions are available, including:

Exclusive Shooting Bay; 25 and 100 yards

10×20 Shooting Area; 25-1,000 yards and Clay Targets

10×10 Shooting Area; 25-1,000 yards and Clay Targets

10×10 Airgun

10×10 Non-Shooting

10×10 Less Lethal

ATV/Truck Demo Track

“A limited number of exhibitor positions are still available for the 2026 event,” said Kelsey Puryear, Industry Day at the Range co-owner. “We encourage exhibitors to secure their spot early and take full advantage of the opportunity to get in front of key industry decision-makers ahead of SHOT Show.”

Supported by the National Shooting Sports Foundation as title sponsor through 2028, Industry Day at the Range remains the only official range event associated with SHOT Show. Exhibitor space is limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged.

New exhibitors can register online now to secure their space. Positions are also available online. For additional details and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit the event website.

For more information about the 2026 SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range visit ShotShowRangeDay.com.

Media Contact: Kelsey Puryear, Industry Day at the Range Co-Owner & Event Manager

Email: Kelsey@shotshowrangeday.com

Posted in Press Release, SHOT Show | No Comments »

Rock Island Armory and Armscor Announced as Supporting Sponsor for Industry Day at the Range 2026

Sunday, October 26th, 2025

BOULDER CITY, Nev. – October 22, 2025 – SHOT Show® Industry Day at the Range, the highly anticipated hands-on event held annually the day before SHOT Show®, is thrilled to announce Rock Island Armory and Armscor as Supporting Sponsor of the 21st annual event, taking place January 19, 2026, at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada.

Rock Island Armory and Armscor is a leading manufacturer of firearms and ammunition, renowned for producing high-quality, reliable products for personal defense, sport shooting, law enforcement and military markets. With a history dating back to 1905, the company has built a reputation for performance, precision and affordability.

“We’re proud to continue our partnership and attendance with Industry Day at the Range as a Supporting Sponsor and connect directly with the passionate community that drives the shooting sports industry,” said Martin Tuason, President and CEO of Rock Island Armory and Armscor. “This event continues to be the perfect opportunity for us to share the innovation and craftsmanship behind our latest lineup — from our STK and TCM series to the all-new RIA 5.0 and beyond. We look forward to giving our industry friends an up-close experience with the firearms that represent the heart of who we are: performance, precision, and reliability.”

Industry Day offers an unparalleled opportunity for exhibitors to introduce new products, engage with top-tier media and influencers and create direct connections with SHOT Show attendees in a hands-on environment. This exclusive event provides early momentum that extends well into the SHOT Show itself, ensuring maximum exposure for brands ahead of the main event.

“We’re excited to welcome Rock Island Armory and Armscor as a Supporting Sponsor for Industry Day at the Range 2026,” said Kelsey Puryear, Industry Day at the Range co-owner. “With a long-standing legacy of producing high-quality firearms and ammunition, the company is a natural fit for this event. Its sponsorship will significantly enhance the experience for exhibitors and attendees alike.”

As a Supporting Sponsor, Rock Island Armory and Armscor reinforces its position as a global leader in the firearms and ammunition space. Its participation in Industry Day at the Range reflects a strong commitment to innovation and direct engagement with the industry’s most influential voices.

Supported by the National Shooting Sports Foundation as title sponsor through 2028, Industry Day at the Range remains the only official range event associated with the SHOT Show. Exhibitor space is limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged.

New exhibitors can register online now to secure their space. Sponsorship information is also available online. For additional details and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit the event website.

For more information about the 2026 SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range visit ShotShowRangeDay.com.

Posted in Industry, Press Release, SHOT Show | No Comments »

Now This Is An Interesting Photo

Sunday, October 26th, 2025

In this taken sometime in October 1968 photo you see USAF General Curtis LeMay meeting with 5th SFG(A) Colonel Harold “Hank “ Aaron at 5th Group HQ in Na Trang, Republic of Vietnam.

Although LeMay is in a simple set of fatigues, he was obviously a civilian when this photo was taken. He had retired in 1965 as Chief of Staff of the Air Force. This is right at the end of his failed bid for Vice Presidency as running mate of George Wallace in their 3rd party candidacy on the American Independent Party ticket. Even Wallace’s staffers thought he was out there for his stance on nuclear weapons.

LeMay served in the US Army’s air component and then in the Air Force from 1929 until 1965 with service in World War Two as well as the Korea and Vietnam wars. Having overseen the use of nuclear weapons at the end of WWII, he was the first commander of Strategic Air Command from 48-57 and transitioned the bomber five from propeller to jet engines aircraft. He also led the first deployment of ICBMs and was a vocal supporter of their use in conflict which often put him at odds with the civilian leadership. He was known as a staunch disciplinarian during his time as Commander of SAC but that actually began during the war in the Pacific when he dealt with high abort rates of bombing missions by declaring that he would fly the lead bomber on all missions and that any crew who did not make it over the target would be court martialled.

We also have LeMay to thank for buying the first M16s for use by Air Police while Chief of Staff, directing the acquisition of 80,000 M16s in 1962.

Posted in Cold War, History | 2 Comments »

Nomad Launches Conifer VX3 Gear For Cold Weather Hunting

Saturday, October 25th, 2025

PrimaLoft Insulation makes Conifer VX3 Nomad’s warmest gearCHARLESTON, SC. (October 21, 2025) – Nomad Outdoor launched Conifer VX3, the updated version of its popular line of technical in-field gear designed for maximum warmth when the winter winds howl and late season cold fronts throw the worst conditions at hunters searching for that target buck.

Conifer VX3 sandwiches 100g PrimaLoft insulation between a windproof membrane outer layer and the breathable membrane inner layer to shut out the cold and keep you dry and comfortable.

“We designed Conifer for hunters willing to endure cold weather when the big bucks move and the hunting gets hot,” said Mike Tussey, Marketing Director Nomad Outdoor. “Late season might be your best shot at the buck of a lifetime, and Conifer VX3 helps you sit comfortably on the stand longer and stay still for that last 15 minutes of shooting light, no matter how cold it is.”

Available in the recently reintroduced Mossy Oak New Break Up pattern, Conifer VX3 includes bib overalls, jacket, trapper hat and flip mitt gloves that protect fingers against the chill butinstantly flip out of the way when it’s time to draw a bow or aim a rifle.

The bib overalls have zippered chest pockets for gear and generous fleece-lined warmer pockets to keep your hands protected in frigid weather. The Conifer VX3 bib overalls retail for $320.

The jacket also has fleece-lined hand warmer pockets and an adjustable, three-piece insulated hood for full coverage warmth. An integrated harness port allows easy access for a safety tether when in a tree stand. The Conifer VX3 jacket retails for $320.

Conifer VX3 flip mitts have thick PrimaLoft insulation and many features to insure hunter comfort in the field. The thumb includes a fleece nose wipe panel, and the tip of the mitt has a bite tab for quick opening. Magnet closures keep the mitten section secured when flipped back and fingers are insulated with stretch fleece. Conifer VX3 flip mitts retail for $65.

The trapper hat has a laminated brushed tricot outer shell with 100g of PrimaLoft inside. Adjustment strap across the back fits most sizes. The trapper hat comes with a warm, removable fleece-lined facemask with silent magnet attachments on the bottom for stealthy on and off. Conifer VX3 trapper hats retail for $65.

Posted in Camo, Clothing, Off-Duty, Press Release | No Comments »

EagleNXT Announces Sale of Advanced eBee TAC Drones to Defense Logistics Agency

Saturday, October 25th, 2025

Advanced Drones to Fulfill Varied Missions, Increase Flexibility and Capability with multiple sensor packages

WICHITA, Kan., Oct. 23, 2025 — AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (dba, EagleNXT) (the “Company” or “EagleNXT”) (NYSE: UAVS), a leading provider of advanced drone and aerial imaging solutions, is pleased to announce a significant sale as part of a larger Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) procurement, supplying two of its eBee TAC unmanned aerial systems to support the operational needs of a United States military unit.

This strategic procurement underscores EagleNXT’s growing role in delivering cutting-edge, NDAA-compliant technology for high resolution mapping, and tactical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions with the U.S. Government.

The eBee TAC, a lightweight, hand-launched fixed-wing drone, offers up to 90 minutes of flight time and a 15 km range, enables rapid deployment and secure data collection. Capable of generating 2D orthomosaics, 3D models, and thermal maps, the system is tailored for applications such as terrain analysis and situational awareness in complex environments.

“We are honored to support the Defense Logistics Agency and its mission to enhance national security through advanced UAV solutions,” said Bill Irby, CEO of EagleNXT. “The eBee TAC, capable of being equipped with multiple sensor configurations, represents the pinnacle of tactical mapping technology-delivering real-time, actionable intelligence to operators in dynamic environments. This award underscores EagleNXT’s expertise in high-performance unmanned systems for defense applications and reinforces our position as a trusted partner in strengthening U.S. operational capabilities and public safety infrastructure. Our focus remains on executing with discipline, and providing needed capability to the warfighter.”

The DLA is a combat support agency within the U.S. Department of Defense, and is responsible for providing comprehensive logistics, acquisition, and sustainment solutions to America’s armed forces and federal agencies. With a mission to deliver readiness and lethality through a global supply chain, DLA manages the procurement and distribution of critical equipment, supplies, and services to support military operations worldwide.

Advanced unmanned aerial systems like the eBee TAC, which is included on the U.S. Department of Defense’s Blue UAS Cleared list, enhance DLA’s capabilities by enabling rapid intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, delivering high-precision mapping, 3D modeling, and advanced situational awareness for multiple mission sets.

For more information about the full suite of EagleNXT UAS solutions, or to schedule a demo, visit EagleNXT.com

Posted in Contracts, Drone, Press Release | No Comments »

Operation Urgent Fury

Saturday, October 25th, 2025

On the morning of October 25th, 1983, America awoke to reports that US forced had invaded the small Caribbean nation of Grenada, in order to liberate American medical students from danger posed by political instability. Joined by Regional Security System troops from a variety of Caribbean partner nations, they swiftly overwhelmed the Grenadian and Cuban troops. While Operation Urgent Fury was in name, a joint force operation, and included the use of Special Operations Forces, it highlighted many interoperability challenges, such as use of joint operational overlays and communications issues.

Several stove pipe problems suffered by the pre-Goldwater-Nichols military were identified during this operation. Additionally, Urgent Fury was conducted with many systems dating from the Vietnam war.

Just six years later, during the invasion of Panama, saw the first employment of several new weapons developed during the Reagan buildup such as the F-117 stealth fighter and the Marine Corps LAV-25. Grenada was a great learning experience for the US military as it highlighted issues with joint service operations, particularly in the communications arena as well as interoperability between Special Operations and General Purpose forces. For example, SOF also took a much more prominent role in operation Blue Spoon during the Panama invasion. We’ve come even further in the past three decades.

Finally, as with any conflict, lives were lost. Let us not forget the 19 Americans killed in action and the 116 who were wounded. Unfortunately, there were also 24 Grenadian civilians killed in the conflict.

Posted in History | 1 Comment »