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FlyFocus to Unveil Polish-Made TASACK Precision Loitering Munition at MSPO 2026

Wednesday, September 9th, 2026
  • New 110-km system combines cost-focused design, top-attack capability and a predominantly Polish-made technology stack
  • TASACK is a new 15 kg precision loitering munition with a flight range of up to 110 km and 5 kg payload
  • A stabilised EO/IR gimbal enables operators to identify and track targets and execute attack profiles ranging from flat to vertical
  • Simplified internal and external architecture is designed to reduce production costs, with the majority of components manufactured in Poland
  • A point-and-click interface allows operators to engage targets without requiring the extensive piloting skills conventional FPV systems demand
  • FlyFocus debuts TASACK on 8 September at MSPO in Kielce, Poland

WARSAW, Poland (September 8, 2026) — FlyFocus, a Polish defence technology company specialising in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and avionics, unveiled TASACK, its new precision loitering munition, for the first time at MSPO 2026 in Kielce, Poland. With its interface built around a point-and-click design, TASACK’s operator does not need real piloting skills to engage a target, unlike conventional FPV systems, which require extensive pilot training.

Designed for precision engagement of stationary and moving targets, TASACK combines a flight range of up to 110 kilometres with a 5 kg payload and speeds of up to 300 km/h. The system has been engineered around a deliberately simplified, modular architecture intended to reduce manufacturing costs while allowing rapid assembly, maintenance and upgrades as operational requirements change.

A key feature is TASACK’s stabilised daylight or infrared gimbal, which provides visual targeting and enables operators to approach targets using attack profiles ranging from flat trajectories to near-vertical top attacks. This allows the system to observe and track targets before engaging them from the most appropriate direction. The system provides visual targeting accuracy of 1 m CEP50, according to FlyFocus specifications.

The majority of TASACK’s components, including its gimbal, are manufactured in Poland. This continues FlyFocus’ broader strategy of building unmanned systems around secure, NATO-aligned supply chains while retaining control over critical UAV technologies.

“TASACK has been designed around what we believe matters most for this class of system: precision, simplicity and the ability to manufacture at meaningful scale,” said Igor Skawi?ski, CEO and co-founder of FlyFocus. “Modern militaries need sophisticated capabilities, but they also need systems that can be produced affordably, deployed quickly and adapted as battlefield conditions change. Our objective with TASACK is to bring those requirements together in one platform.”

TASACK also shares a common ground control interface with FlyFocus’s existing Polaris, CableGuard and Striker platforms. By maintaining a consistent operator environment across different UAV classes, FlyFocus aims to reduce the additional training required when personnel move between systems.

The 15 kg electrically powered aircraft can remain airborne for up to 1.5 hours and provides an 80 km datalink range. Midcourse navigation combines enhanced GNSS and inertial navigation, with radio-navigation available as an option. The modular airframe can accommodate different warheads depending on mission requirements and can be prepared for launch in approximately five to seven minutes.

TASACK is presented publicly for the first time at MSPO alongside FlyFocus’s wider portfolio of unmanned systems and avionics. The company expects TASACK to achieve production readiness in Q1 2027.

GPS-Free Test Flight Success Marks Critical Advance for Aviation, National Security

Wednesday, September 9th, 2026

The Defense Innovation Unit’s latest quantum sensing milestone shows aircraft can safely and accurately navigate vast stretches of ocean without relying on the same GPS that millions of civilians use to move through traffic.

The groundbreaking flight test was a success for MagNav, DIU’s magnetic navigation program, and is a critical advancement for the future of aviation and national security.

“This is a significant win for the department’s quantum sensing priorities, showcasing that MagNav capabilities are no longer a distant research goal,” said Kyle Norman, deputy director of DIU’s Kill Web portfolio. “We moved from problem sourcing to solicitation to prototype in a matter of months.”

The MagNav program launched in spring 2024 under the name “Transition of Quantum Sensing.” A total of 72 companies submitted applications to the commercial solutions opening, with Honeywell Aerospace ultimately selected to move forward with prototype development.

MagNav systems use quantum sensors to read the Earth’s natural magnetic field, turning the planet’s crust into an invisible, unjammable map that allows pilots to navigate safely regardless of weather, time of day or GPS availability.

The Earth’s magnetic field cannot be spoofed or blocked by hostile forces, Norman said. The new technology also significantly improves on legacy backup options such as radar mapping or visual cues like rivers, highways and cities.

The system was installed aboard an Embraer 170 aircraft to demonstrate real-world capabilities. The route took the aircraft over the Pacific Ocean, from Seattle’s Puget Sound to southern Alaska and back.

After four hours and 23 minutes of flying over the ocean without GPS, the MagNav system improved position accuracy by 89% compared to traditional backup navigation methods. The navigation data streamed directly to the pilots in real time via standard tablets, showing that military personnel can field the technology without a massive overhaul of cockpit instruments.

The test mission also added the complexity of the ocean surface — a featureless, constantly shifting expanse that would traditionally require internal sensors in the absence of GPS.

The problem, however, is that classical sensors drift over time. What starts as a small miscalculation can become a massive, dangerous deviation if left unchecked. By reading the Earth’s magnetic signatures, MagNav gives pilots a highly accurate, continuous map even when no visible landmarks exist.

Honeywell and DIU are preparing to demonstrate the technology on a U.S. military C-17 Globemaster III cargo aircraft later this year. By proving that aircraft can maintain pinpoint accuracy over the featureless ocean without GPS, the War Department is taking a significant step toward ensuring that military and commercial pilots can safely reach their destinations, no matter what happens to the satellite networks above them.

By Defense Innovation Unit Staff

Drone Round Counter-UAS Ammunition Integrated Into Marine Corps Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer

Tuesday, September 8th, 2026

Drone Round announced today that its 5.56x45mm L Variant counter-UAS cartridge has been integrated into the Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer (ISMT), the U.S. Marine Corps virtual small arms training system produced by InVeris. The integration gives Marines a way to build engagement skills with the multi-projectile round on the same simulators already installed at bases across the Corps, timed to the arrival of the first live deliveries.


USMC photo by Ashley Calingo

The Marine Corps has purchased 400,000 L Variant cartridges to date and has stated its intent to procure an additional one million rounds in fiscal year 2027, which begins October 1. Deliveries to Marine Corps ammunition supply points are underway and expected to be complete in September, with Marine Expeditionary Force commanders determining which units receive the ammunition first.

That fielding timeline created an immediate training requirement. Counter-UAS engagements demand a different skill set than conventional marksmanship, including target lead on fast-moving aerial threats at close range. Live rounds issued to units are intended for operational use, not familiarization.

As part of the Marine Corps’ Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer (ISMT) Tech Refresh, InVeris will introduce a new counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) training capability. This enhancement will enable Marines across the force the ability to engage with aerial drone threats with their individual weapon in a simulated environment. By integrating C-UAS training with the M27 IAR simulator and fielding it across more than 200 ISMT systems, Marines will be able to repeatedly practice detecting, tracking, deciding when to engage, and engaging aerial threats. Because the capability is built on InVeris’ existing COTS platform, additional scenarios, threats, and courses of fire will continually be developed as the UAS threat and Marine Corps tactics, techniques, and procedures evolve.

“The round was built so a Marine could use the rifle already in their hands, and the training has to work the same way, on the simulators already in the building. Getting the virtual capability out at the same time as the ammunition means a Marine can practice the engagement before the moment they need it.” said Kirk Fernandez, co-founder and CEO of Drone Round.

“This partnership reflects the innovation the Marine Corps needs — taking the training infrastructure they already trust and readying it for Counter-UAS defense. InVeris is proud that our platform allows us to build this capability into the ISMT Tech Refresh rather than standing up something entirely new. This is what it means to grow with our customer’s mission.” said Clyde Tuggle, CEO of InVeris.

The Marine Corps has been building counter-drone proficiency into general-purpose forces through 2026. The service introduced its first counter-small unmanned aerial system lanes during Service Level Training Exercise 4-26 in July at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, with Marines engaging aerial targets using organic small arms alongside non-kinetic electronic warfare techniques. Soldiers with the U.S. Army XVIII Airborne Corps have trained with Drone Round ammunition since April 2026.

The L Variant separates into five projectiles after firing to increase probability of hit against small drones. It is effective to 100 meters, requires no modification to standard 5.56mm NATO weapons, and is full-auto and suppressor capable. Drone Round has also developed L and K Variants in 7.62x51mm.

Curtiss-Wright to Provide Sensor Processing for Northrop Grumman’s Improved Threat Detection System

Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026

ITDS processor, paired with Northrop Grumman’s ATHENA sensor, will enhance aircraft and aircrew survivability

ASHBURN, Va. – Sept. 1, 2026 – Curtiss-Wright announced today that it was awarded an approximately $14 million contract from Northrop Grumman to provide sensor processing equipment supporting the Phase II development of the U.S. Army’s Improved Threat Detection System (ITDS), the future threat warning system designed to protect aircraft from air defense systems. The program aims to deliver advanced missile warning and threat detection capabilities across current and future U.S. Army aviation platforms, including the AH-64 Apache and MV-75 Cheyenne Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft.

Curtiss-Wright’s ITDS integrated processor provides a modular, ruggedized solution designed to ingest high-bandwidth sensor data, perform real-time processing and data fusion, and enable rapid integration of new capabilities within an open systems architecture that is purpose built for portability from platform to platform. Paired with Northrop Grumman’s Advanced Tactical Hostile Engagement Awareness (ATHENA) sensor, Curtiss-Wright’s integrated processor will enable timely missile warning and critical information flow across the platform to protect aircraft and aircrews.  

“Combining Curtiss-Wright’s highly durable processing capability with Northrop Grumman’s ATHENA sensor will result in an unrivaled threat detection capability, providing the potential to protect aircrews from virtually any weapon system – air to air or surface to air – employed by our adversaries,” said Brian Perry, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions. “Our integrated processor excels at rapidly processing and transporting large amounts of data in the most demanding environments, making it the optimal computing solution for latency-critical sense and response protection systems such as ITDS.”

Curtiss-Wright’s integrated processor utilizes MOSA- and SOSA aligned modules integrated within a conduction-cooled chassis designed for airborne deployment. High-speed optical interfaces and configurable I/O provide support for both modern digital sensors and legacy aircraft interfaces, enabling integration across a wide range of aircraft protection architectures. The integrated processor also delivers groundbreaking artificial intelligence-enabled compute architecture and real-time net-centric data sharing which ensures the platform can evolve alongside emerging sensor technologies, algorithms, and countermeasure systems.

About ATHENA

The ATHENA sensor is designed to enhance aircraft survivability by providing 360-degree situational awareness and high-resolution threat detection, capable of geolocating electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) threats such as unmanned aerial systems, air to air missiles, anti-tank guided missiles, and rocket-propelled grenades.

About ITDS

ITDS will provide the capability to detect, classify, cue and declare on existing and emerging EO/IR threats. ITDS is designed to operate based on rapid threat classification and initiating the appropriate countermeasure system, such as directable infrared and/or expendable countermeasures. ITDS also provides appropriate hostile fire indications, differentiating between small arms and rocket threats.

ITDS will be a Future Airborne Capability Environment (FACE)-conformant and Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA)-compliant system, able to operate on a digital backbone. It will be composed of IR sensors, a processor, and a memory module. 

For additional information about Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions products, please visit defense-solutions.curtisswright.com and LinkedIn.

MAAK Gear – Grip Cables

Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026

MAAK Gear’s grip cables are a handy way to keep various cables and cords you use for travel organized. Thanks to three colors you can also categorize them.

www.maakgear.com/products/cable-grip

Ruck Ready: Three New Mission-Ready Boots From Rocky

Wednesday, September 2nd, 2026

Rucking. Range days. Field exercises. Long miles under load. For those who demand more from their footwear, Rocky Boots has introduced three new military styles built to keep up when the mission gets demanding.

The new C4T Commercial Military Boot, USMC S2V Military Boot and USMC S2V Steel Toe Military Boot give military personnel, tactical professionals and serious outdoor athletes purpose-built options for everything from loaded rucks to extended time on the range.

For lighter, faster movement: The Rocky C4T Commercial Military Boot weighs just 1.25 pounds per boot and combines a dual-density EVA/rubber outsole with 5mm lugs, a fiberglass shank and a wide toe box. Its breathable full-grain leather construction and Rocky Air-Port Comfort footbed are designed to deliver comfort during long days on foot. The boot is also GSA, TAA and military uniform compliant.

For serious rucking and field use: The Rocky USMC S2V Military Boot is built around Rocky’s proven S2V platform and is USMC certified as of 2025. It pairs water-resistant, flash-resistant leather with 1,000-denier CORDURA® nylon, S2V Sieve technology for air circulation and water drainage, Roll-Stop Ankle Stability and a high-walled Vibram® sole. Triple-stitched construction adds another layer of durability for hard use. The Berry-compliant boot is made in the USA.

For added protection: The Rocky USMC S2V Steel Toe Military Boot takes the S2V platform and adds an ASTM-compliant steel toe and electrical hazard protection. It maintains the features that make the S2V a strong choice for demanding environments, including 1,000-denier CORDURA®, water-resistant leather, S2V Sieve technology, Roll-Stop Ankle Stability and a high-walled Vibram® sole.

For ruckers and tactical athletes, footwear can make or break a long day under load. Rocky’s latest military boots are engineered to provide the stability, traction, durability and protection needed when miles, weight and terrain start adding up.

OPT End of Summer Sale Ad

Monday, August 31st, 2026

Get 10 – 15% off site-wide during O P Tactical’s End of Summer Sale! Discount automatically applies in the shopping cart to eligible items. Some exclusions apply. Get yourself a deal and be ready for work and range time this Fall.

www.optactical.com

Air Force Global Strike Command Directs Stop Use of AN/PRM-10 Test Oscillator Set

Sunday, August 30th, 2026

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. —  

Air Force Global Stike Command has directed units within the command to stop use of the AN/PRM-10 test oscillator set, a signal generator used to examine intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM)communications systems.

This order stems from a notification AFGSC and 20th Air Force received in August that an Airman assigned to F.E. Warren AFB discovered and was exposed to residue on a component of an AN/PRM-10 kit while performing a routine inspection. The Airman reported the issue, received medical attention, and was returned to duty with no adverse effects.

Subsequent tests on the residue confirmed the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a substance commonly used in electrical devices during the time that equipment was developed to maintain the Minuteman III ICBM system.

Upon notification confirming the presence of PCBs in one AN/PRM-10 unit at F.E. Warren AFB, 20th AF directed a one-time inspection (OTI) to assess all AN/PRM-10 kits. Officials also directed updated safety warnings, precautions, and mandatory personal protective equipment requirements where legacy testers remained in use.

The OTI-directed review was completed within three days of issuance and covered the entire inventory of AN/PRM-10 kits across the command. Inspections found potential residue on six of eight AN/PRM-10 systems. Samples have been collected and are being sent for testing.

Upon receiving the OTI findings indicating the presence of potential residue on additional AN/PRM-10 kits, and as a precautionary measure while sample test results are pending, units in 20th AF are immediately stopping use of the AN/PRM-10 and transitioning from the AN/PRM-10 to a modern, PCB-free replacement tester.

“Twentieth Air Force takes the responsibility to protect our Airmen very seriously,” said Maj. Gen. Colin Connor, 20th AF commander. “As our Airmen are our greatest asset, their safety and health are my top priority.”

In addition to these measures, AFGSC and 20th AF officials are working closely with the Minuteman III systems program office to appropriately dispose of existing AN/PRM-10 kits and identify any other pieces of test equipment that may contain PCBs. 

There are no mission impacts as a result of these actions, and U.S. ICBM forces remain safe, secure, and effective to protect the U.S. homeland.

“We remain vigilant for issues like these and will continue to aggressively and immediately take the appropriate actions,” added Gen. S.L. Davis, commander of AFGSC.

This effort is the latest in a series of initiatives Air Force officials have directed, following the launch of the Missile Community Cancer Study in 2023, to review the Minuteman III system and its associated equipment to ensure a safe, hazard-free working environment for America’s ICBM force.

For more information on the Missile Community Cancer Study, please follow this link: www.airforcemedicine.af.mil/Resources/Missile-Community-Cancer-Study.

By Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs