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Mehler Systems Signed a Share and Purchase Agreement for the Acquisition of a Major Stake in the Leading Australian Armour Systems Manufacturer Craig International Ballistics

Tuesday, April 21st, 2026

FULDA, GERMANY, 20 April 2026

Mehler Systems, a global leader in ballistic protection and tactical gear solutions, has signed a share sale and purchase agreement to acquire a major stake in Craig International Ballistics (CIB). The acquisition is still pending approval under the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act of Australia.

Following the transaction, Craig International Ballistics will become part of the Mehler Systems Group – joining the group as a trusted partner. CIB will work closely with Mehler Protection’s body and platform armour divisions while continuing to operate under its established brand and local leadership. Headquartered in Queensland, the Australian company is a leading manufacturer of personal protective equipment and ballistic protection solutions for land, air and maritime platforms.

The investment strengthens Mehler Systems’ commercial footprint and customer proximity in the Asia-Pacific region, enabling Mehler Systems to address local requirements and service needs even more effectively. At the same time, it expands the group’s global reach and reinforces its position as a provider of high-quality, technologically advanced protection systems. The CIB site in Queensland will also serve as a key manufacturing, production and innovation hub within the group for customers in the Southern Hemisphere, supporting Mehler Systems’ international growth.

The investment strengthens Mehler Systems’ commercial footprint and customer proximity in the Asia-Pacific region, enabling us to address local requirements and service needs even more effectively. At the same time, it expands the group’s global reach and reinforces its position as a provider of high-quality, technologically advanced protection systems. The CIB site in Queensland will also serve as a key manufacturing, production and innovation hub within the group for customers in the Southern Hemisphere, supporting Mehler Systems’ international growth.

Commenting on the acquisition, Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems, said: “With Craig International Ballistics, we are welcoming an established Australian provider with a proven track record in supporting sovereign defence capabilities. By combining CIB’s strong presence and long-standing customer relationships in Australia with Mehler Systems’ portfolio, we will be able to serve customers in the Asia-Pacific region even more closely and respond to local requirements with enhanced speed, support and service. We gain direct access to existing programmes and relationships with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and other government clients, while also expanding our global reach. This investment is intended to geographically diversify our customer base, increase the resilience of our supply chains, and accelerate Mehler Systems’ development as a globally recognised provider of protection systems.”

In recent years, CIB has significantly expanded its manufacturing and technological capabilities, substantially increasing its capacity for complex ballistic protection solutions. Its modern production facilities and in-house testing and development capabilities enable the company to rapidly develop, trial and bring new protection concepts into series production. At the same time, APAC markets are seeing rising demand for modular, weight optimised protection systems for armed forces, government agencies and critical infrastructure.

James Craig, CEO of Craig International Ballistics, outlines the company’s approach: “With our broad range of ballistic protection plates for naval, aerospace and structural applications, we have contributed to Australia’s sovereign protection capabilities for many years, delivering solutions that integrate seamlessly into international programmes. The close integration of research, development, manufacturing and testing enables us to swiftly adopt new materials and production techniques. Together with Mehler Systems, we will be able to deliver high-performance, weight-optimised protection solutions for the APAC region and beyond even more quickly in future.”

This development culture fits seamlessly into Mehler Systems’ own technology roadmap. With the acquisition of a major stake in Craig International Ballistics, Mehler Systems is pursuing long term growth based on clearly defined security and industrial policy principles: regional anchoring, technical excellence and reliable partnerships with customers and public authorities.

Posted in Armor, Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Delta Three Oscar and Craig International Ballistics Announce NIJ 0101.07 Testing for Next Generation Body Armour

Tuesday, April 21st, 2026

Blacksburg, Virginia, April 17th 2026 – Delta Three Oscar, the tactical division of D3O, the global leader in advanced protection materials, and Craig International Ballistics (CIB), a leading manufacturer of high-performance ballistic systems, today jointly announce successful testing of five new standalone hard armour plate models against the latest NIJ0101.07 test standard incorporating D3O’s next-generation Ballistic™ foam.

The testing validates the performance of the newly developed armour systems under the National Institute of Justice’s latest and most stringent ballistic protection standard. The newmodels integrate D3O’s advanced ballistic foam technology to specifically mitigate back face deformation, a critical factor in reducing blunt force trauma following a ballistic impact.

CIB, headquartered in Queensland, Australia, brings over 25 years of experience delivering high-performance body armour, hard armour plates, tactical shields, and platform protection systems to military and law enforcement customers worldwide. Testing of D3O’s advanced ballistic foam began in early 2024 at CIB’s onsite ballistic laboratory, where extensive evaluation confirmed measurable reductions in back face deformation while maintaining optimized weight and wearer mobility.

We expect these new models to receive NIJ Notice of Compliance and be listed on the NIJ Compliant Product List in the coming months, after which they will be available for purchase.

“Achieving NIJ 0101.07 validation across five stand-alone models is a powerful validation of what can be achieved when advanced material science and innovative armour engineering come together.’ Said Simon McNair, SVP of Sales at DeltaThree Oscar. “Our Ballistic™ foam was engineered to address the challenge of significantly reducing back face deformation, and this certification demonstrates its proven effectiveness within fully compliant armour systems. It is a great validation to have James Craig, and his team choose our Ballistic™ foam as we have so much respect for theiradvanced manufacturing capabilities, they are industry leading without a doubt.”

Delta Three Oscar/D3O and CIB continue to push the boundaries of material innovation and armour system design. This latest NIJ 0101.07 validation testing, reinforces both companies’ commitment to advancing protective equipment standards for military and law enforcement personnel worldwide.

Posted in Armor, Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

Beecher Tactical – 3D Printed Plate Carrier

Tuesday, April 21st, 2026

Back in 2006 I wrote in my introduction to the book “Battle Rattle” about the future of load carriage and my prediction that one day we would no longer sew fabric together but rather use either glue or welding to form our gear.

Beecher Tactical has taken it in a different direction and used additive manufacturing to print a plate carrier.

It comes as a DIY kit that you have to string together. In addition to the full carrier, Beecher offers magazine and other pouches.

Beecher Tactical is committed to developing a fully printed tactical loadout for humans. Models are developed, tested, refined, and then enter the Panoply, a digital armor locker for the modern defender. Individual items from the Panoply are made available on Printables, but full access to the Panoply is available through a Beecher Tactical Patreon membership. 

Grab the STL file on Printables or the full printed kit at beechertactical.com

Posted in Armor, DIY, Tachacker | No Comments »

HRT Introduces the XVC Plate Carrier: A New Standard in Lightweight, Load-Bearing Performance

Tuesday, April 14th, 2026

Columbus, OH — 4/7/26 — HRT is proud to announce the release of the HRT XVC Plate Carrier, a next-generation modular system engineered to redefine lightweight performance, airflow, and adaptability in modern load-bearing equipment.

Designed for professionals who demand uncompromising mobility without sacrificing durability or comfort, the XVC features an advanced skeletal architecture that strips away unnecessary bulk while maximizing ventilation. The result is one of the most breathable, streamlined plate carriers available on the market today—purpose-built for real-world operations in the harshest conditions.

Constructed from dual layers of 500D laminated Squadron material and enhanced with integrated molded EVA foam padding, the XVC is engineered to keep operators cool, dry, and mission-ready. Its rugged, laser-cut skeletal design maintains exceptional structural integrity while significantly reducing overall weight. Front and rear VELCRO® loop fields, combined with MOLLE compatibility, allow for a highly customizable loadout in a clean, minimalist form factor.

At the core of the system is the optional rigid, expandable cummerbund, featuring First Spear® Tubes™ quick-release technology for rapid donning and doffing. Built from CURV® thermoplastic and laminated Squadron, the cummerbund delivers superior load-bearing capability within a low-profile, flexible frame. Available in both 3-inch (3-column) and 5-inch (4-column) configurations, it allows users to tailor their setup to meet specific mission requirements—balancing scalability, stability, and freedom of movement.

“Every element of the XVC was designed with purpose,” said Jeem Newland, CEO and Lead Product Designer at HRT. “From its ultra-lightweight construction to its rigid structural components, this carrier delivers unmatched comfort and performance whether running a slick setup or a fully equipped loadout.”

The HRT XVC Plate Carrier is sold a la carte with three cummerbund options, giving users the flexibility to configure their system from the ground up. Additional features include removable padded shoulder pads, compatibility with HRT Zip-On Panel MOLLE Adapters, and a lifetime warranty—ensuring long-term reliability in the field.

Key Attributes:

• Sold a la carte with three cummerbund options

• Dual 500D laminated Squadron construction for optimal strength-to-weight ratio

• Integrated molded foam plate bag insert for improved airflow and heat management

• Removable padded shoulder pads for enhanced comfort

• Skeletal MOLLE-compatible design for reduced weight and increased ventilation

• VELCRO® loop fields for identification and patch placement

• MOLLE/PALS exterior with soft loop interior for customization

• Compatible with optional HRT Zip-On Panel MOLLE Adapters

• Fits most 10”x12” and large SAPI plates

• LIFETIME WARRANTY

• Made in the USA

The HRT XVC Plate Carrier represents the evolution of lightweight protection—eliminating excess while enhancing every critical function. When speed, endurance, and efficiency matter most, the XVC is built to move with you, breathe with you, and perform without compromise.

For more information, visit HRTTACTICALGEAR.COM

Posted in Armor, Load Carrying, Press Release | No Comments »

FirstSpear Friday Focus – SOV Scalable Operator Vest

Friday, April 3rd, 2026

FirstSpear’s SOV SCALABLE OPERATOR VEST is built for high-threat environments where speed, protection, and adaptability aren’t optional—they’re expected. Designed to scale with the mission, it gives operators the flexibility to run slick or fully loaded without fighting their gear. Rapid-release Tubes make donning and doffing fast and painless—because nobody wants to wrestle their kit at the end of a long day.

The SOV supports soft armor for increased coverage without turning you into a statue. Its winged armor panel design ensures continuous side protection, closing critical gaps while still allowing you to move like you mean it. Reversible tube shoulders add comfort and adjustability, so you can set it up your way, not the vest’s.

Built on FirstSpear’s 6/12 laser-cut platform, the SOV cuts weight without cutting durability. Loop fields on the front, back, and 4” x 9” belly panel make it easy to mount mission-essential gear—ammo, comms, or whatever keeps the day going smoothly.

Bottom line: the SOV is scalable, reliable, and built to perform under pressure. It won’t make your job easy—but it won’t make it harder either, which is more than you can say for most gear.

To request an estimate click image above or visit First-Spear.com/Request-For-Estimate. FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting-edge tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train. For more information visit First-Spear.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Armor, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post | No Comments »

Dunnagan Global Armor Strategies, LLC Is Open For Business

Friday, March 20th, 2026

Dunnagan Global Armor Strategies, LLC is proud to announce its official launch.

We are a defense-market advisory firm focused on the global commercialization of advanced armor and personal protection technologies. Our work centers on helping innovators expand into international defense markets through targeted sales strategy, market development, and competitive positioning across allied nations.
We partner with manufacturers, integrators, and technology developers to ensure their protection solutions reach the programs, procurement channels, and end-users where they can make the greatest impact.

For inquiries, collaboration opportunities, or support entering new defense markets, we welcome you to connect with us.

Email Todd@dunnaganglobal.com.

Posted in Armor, Guest Post, Industry | No Comments »

Tasmanian Tiger Expands Modular Load-Carrying System with New Chest Rig and Pack

Friday, March 13th, 2026

New TT Modular Chest Rig 4xM4 and Modular Chest Rig Pack deliver scalable, mission-ready versatility for military, law enforcement, and SWAT operators.

Knoxville, Tenn. (March 2026) – Tasmanian Tiger®, a tactical nylon line of products distributed exclusively for the US market by Proforce Equipment, Inc., announces the release of two new modular load-bearing solutions: the TT Modular Chest Rig 4xM4 and the TT Modular Chest Rig Pack. Designed to work together or independently, the new systems provide adaptable, low-profile load carriage for military, law enforcement, and SWAT missions.

Built around mission modularity, the TT Modular Chest Rig 4xM4 is a flat, lightweight chest rig featuring four fixed rifle magazine pouches and integrated compatibility with size M SAPI plates. The rig can be worn standalone, attached to plate carriers as a front panel, or combined with the new TT Modular Chest Rig Pack for expanded sustainment capability.

Constructed from CORDURA® 500 den with laser-cut MOLLE, the chest rig offers durability without excess bulk. Adjustable and removable shoulder padding, detachable side pouches, and replaceable main buckles allow operators to tailor the setup to their operational requirements. The rig also supports a tight shooting stance through optimized folding geometry and includes a removable 3D polymer pull tab for rapid magazine access.

The TT Modular Chest Rig 4xM4 weighs 1.9 lbs. (0.866 kg). It is available in black, olive, and coyote for an MSRP of $219. Multicam is available at an MSRP of $259.

To complement the front-mounted rig, Tasmanian Tiger introduces the TT Modular Chest Rig Pack, a low-profile backpack engineered to integrate directly with the TT Chest Rig 4xM4. The pack includes a dedicated plate compartment for size M SAPI panels and offers expandable storage from 12 to 20 liters, making it suitable for patrol, direction action, or extended operations.

The pack features a narrow main compartment, three fleece-lined front pockets with hook-and-loop organization, hydration compatibility, and internal zippered pockets for mission essentials. Included adapters allow the pack to be mounted to plate carriers or used as a back section on the TT Chest Rig MKII and MKII M4 systems, providing cross-platform compatibility within the Tasmanian Tiger ecosystem.

The TT Modular Chest Rig Pack measures 16.5x10x2.5 in. (42x25x6.5cm) with a 20-liter (1220 cubic inches) volume. It weighs in at 2.3 lbs. (1.04kg). It is available in black, olive, and coyote for an MSRP of $219. Multicam is available at an MSRP of $279.

Posted in Armor, Load Carrying, Packs, Press Release | No Comments »

Direct Action Presents the Core Assaulter Setup

Tuesday, March 10th, 2026

Mission first. Gear second to none.

Direct Action introduces the Core Assaulter Setup – a reference configuration designed for frontline operators without a dedicated specialist role, operating in full kit under changing operational tempo. This setup is not a universal solution or the only correct configuration. It’s a reference built to demonstrate system logic, capability, and versatility: load carriage, access, control, and speed.

The setup can be stripped down for low-profile operations, expanded for longer missions, or adapted to unit SOPs and team standards. One principle remains constant: the gear works for the operator, not the other way around.

Built for Operational Tempo

The Core Assaulter Setup is designed for operators in environments where contact is real and situations can evolve beyond the original plan. Typical operations include buildings, vehicles, and confined spaces – often at night and under time pressure.

Mission scope includes:

    Direct action (DA)
    CQB entries and exits
    Securing and searching
    Detentions
    Covering evacuations
    Rapid transitions between mobility and static positions

When operational tempo increases, three factors become critical: time, predictability, and repeatability of movement. The setup allows operators to move naturally within the mission rhythm, without unnecessary adjustments, gear interference, or chaos.

System-Based Configuration

The Core Assaulter Setup is built around the SPITFIRE MK II Plate Carrier with a Rapid Access Cummerbund and Spitfire Cutaway System. Key elements include:

    AR mag pouches
    SPITFIRE Assault Panel on the back
    Warhawk Modular Gun Belt MKII
    Rope Bag as an additional operational element

Each component follows a clear placement logic: gear remains organized, accessible one-handed under stress (even with gloves), and stable even under heavy load. The setup is fully compatible with the Direct Action modular system, letting operators adapt their configuration depending on mission profile and operational requirements.

Direct Action: Individual-as-a-system Approach

Direct Action treats the operator’s loadout as a system, not a collection of unrelated products. Plate carriers, belts, panels, pouches, and accessories form a modular ecosystem configurable by mission, role, and environment.

Direct Action gear is designed, tested, and manufactured in Poland, based on real operational experience. The result: gear that supports movement, maintains order under stress, and performs reliably under extreme operational load.

A Reference, Not a Limitation

The Core Assaulter Setup represents one of many possible configurations. The same system can be adapted to create:

  • Lighter, low-profile setups
  • Heavier configurations for extended missions and increased load carriage

The goal is to demonstrate configuration logic and flexibility: what goes where, why it’s there, and how quickly it can be accessed. The rest is up to the operator.

Learn More

Discover the full Core Assaulter Setup and explore the modular system:
directactiongear.com/en/core-assaulter-setup

Posted in Advertiser, Armor, Load Carrying, Press Release | 1 Comment »

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