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B.E. Meyers & Co Awarded Contract to Deliver MAWL-X1 and DAGIR-V1 Systems in Support of US Army Night Lethality

Wednesday, March 11th, 2026

February 3rd, 2026 (Redmond, WA) – B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. is honored to have been awarded multiple contracts to support US Army Night Operations Lethality upgrades, both in FY2025 and for FY2026. B.E. Meyers & Co. was selected to deliver MAWL-X1 systems via PM Lethality to multiple US Army units in FY2025, completing delivery of 1,000+ systems in 2025. Recently, the US Army placed orders for another 1,000+ MAWL-X1 and DAGIR-V1 systems scheduled for delivery in 2026 as part of the Tailored Logistics Services (TLS) program.

The MAWL®-X1 is a high-power infrared and visible green aiming and illumination laser designed specifically for individual carbines, catering to the needs of modern night fighters. It features cutting-edge VCSEL technology for unparalleled beam quality, eliminating issues of inconsistent illumination. With multiple modes of divergence and power tailored for close, mid, and long-range operations, the MAWL®-X1 ensures optimal performance in any environment. Additionally, its modular design allows for ambidextrous configuration to suit any operator’s need.

The MAWL®-X1 laser device is a modular aiming and illumination tool that provides enhanced Near Infrared (NIR) illumination quality, streamlines the user interface, and improves weapon handling ergonomics. Its compact design offers a superior form-fit-feel compared to traditional systems. With a low-profile activation button just 0.37 inches above the top rail, the device positions most of its bulk off-axis from the operator’s grip, enhancing maneuverability. The MAWL®-X1 is well-suited for combat applications across various environments, ranging from close-quarters battle (CQB) to engagements exceeding 1000 meters.

B.E. Meyers & Co.(R) VCSEL diode technology delivers unmatched near-infrared (NIR) performance, providing users with superior visibility in low-light conditions. This advanced technology enhances beam clarity, essential for improving situational awareness. By producing sharper, more defined illumination, users can better identify their surroundings, assess potential threats and make informed decisions in various environments. The combination of exceptional performance and enhanced clarity makes the VCSEL diode technology a crucial asset for applications where precision and awareness are critical.

The DAGIR®-V1 represents a significant advancement in weapon-mountable aiming technology, seamlessly combining a Near-Infrared (NIR) illuminator with both NIR and visible aiming capabilities. The DAGIR®-V1 is the culmination of advanced optical engineering, delivering unmatched flexibility while also excelling in illumination quality, ergonomics, and form factor. Setting a new gold standard in multi-function aiming laser technology, it has earned the trust of USSOCOM — selected under the SAL-UHP program, where a dedicated variant bears the LA-30 designation with pride.

At the core of the DAGIR®-V1 is the groundbreaking MINIRVA™ diode system, harnessing advanced VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) technology to deliver unmatched beam precision and clarity. This best-in-class optical engine produces sharper, more defined illumination, enabling superior target identification, environmental awareness, and threat assessment—even in the most demanding operational environments.

The DAGIR®-V1 is a versatile, weapon-mounted NIR/Visible pointer and NIR illuminator engineered for elite operational demands. Its powerful overbore 40 mW IR pointer and dual 350 mW VCSEL IR illuminators deliver uncompromising performance — even through oppressive photonic barriers and high-ambient-light environments. Controlled via a best-in-class human-machine interface, operators can intuitively adjust beam divergence and output without dismounting the weapon. All optical and electronic components are environmentally sealed within a compact, rugged aluminum housing, built to thrive in the harshest conditions and the most demanding missions.

Who We Are:

B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. is a Defense Technology Manufacturer located in Redmond, Washington. As a privately held, Veteran-operated, second-generation US Small Business in our 52nd year, we are a global leader in tactical laser systems for combat applications, as well as optoelectronic systems for rotary wing aircraft, fixed wing platforms, and UAVs, along with other integrated systems. We are a true “Made in America” operation, with design, development, production, and final assembly occurring in our Redmond, Washington headquarters. We are proud of our work and who we serve as we evolve critical defense technology and reenergize American Manufacturing.

Who We Support:

Our customers include all branches of US Department of War, US Federal and State Law Enforcement agencies, select US consumer channel partners, international allies in over 50+ countries, as well as defense primes both in the US and internationally. Our key product brands in these spaces include IZLID®, GLARE®, MAWL®, DAGIR®, BOARS®, MILR®, KIJI®, and others.

Made in America:

B.E. Meyers & Co. operates in multiple market segments; however we are a defense-centric original equipment manufacturer at our core. Our business and our products are:

§ US based

§ US owned

§ Certified SBA Small Business

§ ITAR compliant

§ ISO 9001:2015

§ Made in America

§ Buy American Act compliant

§ Berry Amendment compliant

Strategic Sourcing:

With respect to strategic sourcing amid the U.S.-China trade war, B.E. Meyers & Co. is dedicated to an, “Anywhere But China” supply chain policy wherever possible, and especially for key components.

We continually promote efforts to diversify our supply chain, and we also invest in ensuring critical components are stocked to avoid disruptions.

Product Lines:

The US Army has chosen our MAWL® and DAGIR®series of lasers to support their current operational needs in the past, and relies on us to deliver critical systems enhancing US Night Operations Lethality for the future. The MAWL® series has been in production since 2016, with over 30,000 systems produced and fielded worldwide. MAWL® sales include the US Army, US Air Force, multiple foreign defense elements, US Secret Service, US Diplomatic Security Services, and US Department of Homeland Security, amongst others. Please see Chuck Pressburg of Presscheck Consulting’s overview of the MAWL-X1 here.

The DAGIR® series has been in production since 2025 and supports the USSOCOM Squad Aiming Laser – Ultra High Power (SAL-UHP) program of record, as well as the USSOCOM (Miniature Aiming Laser – Ultra High Power) contract, with over 8,000 systems on order and with production deliveries happening now. Please see Chuck Pressburg of Presscheck Consulting’s overview of the DAGIR® series here.

For sales information on the MAWL®, DAGIR®, and other innovative laser solutions from B.E. Meyers & Co., please visit bemeyers.com or connect with us at info@bemeyers.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Army, Contracts, Lasers, Press Release | 5 Comments »

Dragon’s Lair Pitch Goes from Idea to Production

Tuesday, March 10th, 2026

FORT BRAGG, N.C. — A modular drone case conceived by two 82nd Airborne paratroopers is heading into production eight months after being a runner-up at the XVIII Airborne Corps’ Dragon’s Lair competition on June 25, 2025.

This rapid turnaround from idea to production demonstrates the success of Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll’s Transformation Initiative, which simultaneously increase warfighter lethality and accelerates the Army’s acquisition process.

Spc. Alexander Soto, a paratrooper assigned to the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, noted the reoccurring problem of drones being broken during airborne drops and rigorous field exercises.

“We needed to be able to carry drones in our rucksacks for airborne operations,” said Soto. “The idea of a smaller rigid case that allowed us to pack it also made it possible to get them in the air as soon as we hit the drop zone.”

His solution was born out of necessity and pitched at Dragon’s Lair 11, an annual competition modeled after the TV show Shark Tank. Soldiers from across the corps presented their battlefield solutions to real-world challenges to a panel of judges for potential adoption.

Following the competition, Soto collaborated with Staff Sgt. Larry Dockins from the Airborne Innovation Lab. Together they developed a functional prototype in just three months. The result was a lightweight, rigid, and jumpable modular drone case compatible with multiple small unmanned aerial systems.

The accelerated path from concept to contract was made possible by another of the Corps’ innovation initiatives: the Lt. Gen. James M. Gavin Joint Innovation Outpost. The drone case project served as a successful pilot for the outpost’s new rapid-procurement model — testing the team’s ability to align the necessary resources for production.

The JIOP officially opened its doors in January 2026. Its primary mission is to bridge the gap between military needs and industry partners, fast-tracking the procurement process.

“By implementing the systems that the Lt. Gen. James M. Gavin Joint Innovation Outpost enables, we are able to bring these Soldiers’ ideas forward and implement them rapidly,” explained Col. Thomas R. Monaghan Jr., the JIOP’s director. “It also demonstrates the shift in prioritizing innovations that Soldiers want and view as viable solutions to problems.”

The significance of such Soldier-led innovation was not lost on leadership.

“Any solution that makes a warfighter more lethal is a winning solution for us,” Dockins said. “Ultimately, ounces make pounds, seconds make minutes. Creating a device that cuts weight could mean winning or losing on the battlefield.”

By SGT Prim Hibbard

Posted in Army, Drone, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

Elbit America Awarded U.S. Army Contract to Establish a New Class of Soldier Capability

Tuesday, March 10th, 2026

Perception becomes power and decisions move at the speed of instinct with Soldier Borne Mission Command

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – March. 9, 2026 – The modern battlefield will be won by Warriors who understand first, decide in milliseconds, and act with absolute certainty. That future isn’t coming. It’s here.

The United States Army has awarded Elbit Systems of America (Elbit America) an Other Transaction Authority (OTA) contract valued at $120.5 million to develop Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC). This creates a next-generation capability that redefines how Soldiers operate, connect, and dominate in complex, contested environments, built on Elbit America’s proven legacy of see-through-display and night vision expertise.

Elbit America’s SBMC isn’t an evolution in capability. It’s a revolution in Soldier lethality built for the speed and complexity of modern combat. SBMC fuses live multi-spectral sensors with assured positioning into an intuitive, head-borne experience. The result? Soldiers gain the prime advantage with continuous, mission-critical awareness without burden, distraction, or delay.

SBMC delivers total connectivity, sharing visual intelligence and threat data across the unit in real time. Squads become synchronized, sensor-enabled teams where every Soldier benefits from the collective insight of the force. SBMC delivers prime perception that drives clarity and dominance even in denied or degraded environments.

“SBMC changes the speed of decision-making and enables confident, decisive action in moments that define the fight.” said Erik Fox, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Warfighter Systems at Elbit America. “Thanks to our close collaboration with Booz Allen Hamilton we gain mission-critical information, instantly and intuitively, allowing Soldiers to think and react faster.”

Elbit America tapped advanced technology company Booz Allen (NYSE: BAH), the leading provider of AI to the federal government, to build SBMC’s critical software backbone, including advanced extended reality solutions, networking frameworks, and AI-enabled insights.

“Our Soldier Borne Mission Command is critical to winning on the battlefield. Soldiers need processed data distilled, so they’re more lethal and survivable. They need it at near zero latency and in a manner that enables them to shoot, maneuver, and share instantaneously,” said Luke Savoie, President and CEO of Elbit America. “For years, we’ve been the lead at sending data directly into the eye of the Warfighter, whether it’s through our Enhanced Night Vision Goggle – Binocular systems or the sensor fusion we do in the F-35 helmet. Enabling the Soldier to do more is one of our core competencies. We look forward to bringing game-changing innovation and decades of production program experience to this competition.”

As the U.S. Army enhances the capabilities of fielded systems, SBMC sets the foundation for human-machine teaming, autonomous integration, and cognitive warfare dominance. Elbit America is merging proven expertise with next-generation technologies to create SBMC: a capability that transforms awareness into action and ensures Soldiers move at the speed of instinct.

MORE: www.elbitamerica.com/night-vision

Posted in Army, C5ISR, Contracts, Press Release | 2 Comments »

Green Berets Hone Drone Proficiency with Advanced Training

Tuesday, March 10th, 2026

FORT CARSON, Colo. — High winds tear across the tactical range — tumbleweeds pass and debris swirls but a tactical drone maneuvers steadily through the sky, locked on course and unmoved by the elements. This moment reflects the culmination of three demanding weeks of training.

Green Berets from the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) completed an intensive training program from Feb. 9 to 27, conducting exercises both in the classroom and across multiple tactical ranges on Fort Carson. The Advanced Drone Course taken by the Soldiers is designed to expand operational capabilities and enhance small unmanned aerial system employment across the modern battlefield.

The course, led by instructors from 4th Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), brought together Green Berets, alongside a Soldier from the 4th Infantry Division. Throughout the training, students developed hands-on proficiency in soldering, assembling, programming and piloting small UAS platforms.

The course emphasized technical mastery and tactical integration, reinforcing that drones are not a substitute for core Soldier skills but an additional asset that increases precision, adaptability, and lethality during reconnaissance and combat operations.

“This is simply another tool in a Soldier’s kit but its impact depends on how well we understand and employ it,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jovani Vasquez of the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade. “Our adversaries recognize that too. This technology is increasing worldwide, and enemy forces and terrorist organizations are actively using it. We must remain just as adaptive and informed to maintain the advantage.”

As the rhythm of warfare continues to evolve, UAS platforms have become increasingly central to operations. Over the past two decades, the battlefield has expanded beyond traditional ground maneuvering, requiring Soldiers to adapt to threats and opportunities in the air domain. The Advanced Drone Course reflects the Army’s commitment to ensuring units remain agile and prepared to meet emerging challenges.

Upon completion of the course, graduates are capable of independently maintaining and repairing their systems in austere environments. Soldiers are trained to troubleshoot malfunctions, replace components, and conduct basic modifications to sustain mission effectiveness.

“If the motor goes out, they now have the ability to re-solder a new motor, fix it, and continue the mission,” said a UAS instructor from 4th Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). “If your M4 jams, you don’t stop — you find a solution. The same mindset applies to drones. Soldiers need to perform basic repairs and keep the mission moving.”

By investing in advanced drone training, the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) reinforces its ability to adapt to the evolving character of warfare. The course equips Soldiers with the technical skills and problem-solving mindset needed to build, repair, and employ small unmanned aerial systems in any environment. As technology reshapes the battlefield, initiatives like this ensure Green Berets remain agile, self-sufficient, and ready to maintain the advantage.

By SGT Zachary Myers

Posted in Army, Drone, Guest Post, SOF | No Comments »

US Army Sniper Reference Book Available for Download

Friday, March 6th, 2026

GTA 07-10-005, the United States Army Sniper Reference Book is now available for download.

Posted in Army, Guest Post | No Comments »

Special Forces Sharpen Skills, Integrate Technology in Arctic Training

Friday, March 6th, 2026

FORT WAINWRIGHT, Ak. – Across the freezing subarctic region, Green Berets immersed themselves in some of the most physically and mentally taxing cold weather training for the Joint Pacific Multinational Training Center (JPMRC) 26-02 rotation across multiple training areas in central and southern Alaska.

Green Berets and enablers assigned to 3rd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) pushed their bodies to the limit and used their unique set of skills to enhance the effectiveness of 11th Airborne Division in a simulated large-scale combat operation from Feb. 11-20, 2026.

Several small teams of operators leveraged reconnaissance and disruption of adversary technology to ultimately give the Joint Force Commander a decisive advantage in fires and maneuver across the battlespace.

“We’ve got our place [in large-scale combat operations] and it is using tactical actions with our specialized signals intelligence and electronic warfare analysts to achieve strategic results,” said Maj. Scott Ratzer, the 3rd Battalion Alpha company commander. “This gives us a chance to identify important [enemy] targets on the Division’s high-priority target list and disrupt [enemy] command and control, sustainment and logistics.”

Prior to entering the JPMRC training area, multiple Special Forces Operational Detachment–Alphas (SFOD-A) and support personnel conducted 14 days of focused cold weather training in Alaska to refine fundamental survival skills required to operate in Arctic conditions.

The teams rehearsed small-unit movement over snow-covered and restrictive terrain, cold weather sustainment to include meal preparation, communications in extreme temperatures, and long-duration dismounted operations. The training reinforced the technical discipline required to maintain combat power when equipment, batteries, and even basic tasks become more complex in sub-zero environments.

“Having two weeks of solid cold-weather training prior to going into the box helped us and other teams really prepare for the subfreezing temperatures that we were going to face in the box,” said a Special Forces Team Sergeant, the senior NCO on an ODA. “When guys are exposed to this environment [like Alaska], they stop doing the simple things – changing socks, drinking water, and eating. These mistakes can begin to snowball if not taken seriously.”

Building on that foundation, the ODAs integrated emerging technologies to extend their reach well beyond line-of-sight contact. The 3rd Battalion’s premiere military free fall (MFF) team practiced a high-altitude high opening jump to field test cold-weather equipment, communications gear, and layered clothing configurations in a true Arctic environment prior to entering the training area.

By executing the infiltration under realistic conditions, the ODA identified equipment limitations, refined load plans, and confirmed that critical systems would function upon landing.

“If we can prove we’re able to execute an MFF jump in Arctic conditions, that’s just one more option the commander has in his back pocket,” said a Special Forces Detachment Commander. “Weather and terrain up here can limit how you move forces, so testing our gear and our procedures in this environment gives higher headquarters the flexibility to insert a team where and when it makes sense.”

This training underscores the Army’s focus on building agile, lethal formations capable of projecting combat power in any climate and against any adversary. Adaptability is a key component in building lethality and first-person view (FPV) drones assist 10th SFG(A) signals intelligence Soldiers in collecting critical information to hand off to 11th Airborne Division for rocket and missile support.

“FPV drones give us a fast, low-signature way to confirm what we’re seeing on the ground and tighten up our target picture,” said a signals intelligence Soldier. “Instead of relying solely on reports or larger platforms, we can push a drone forward, get eyes on the objective in real time, and provide accurate information to the commander. That speed and precision makes a big difference when it comes to reconnaissance and confirming prior intel.”

As the rotation wrapped up, Green Berets from 3rd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) returned from Alaska having honed their cold-weather skills and tested their equipment in extreme conditions. From survival basics to using FPV drones for real-time reconnaissance, they showed the Army’s focus on adaptability, precision, and readiness. The training ensures commanders have the tools and information needed to gain an edge on any battlefield.

The Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) is the U.S. Army’s premier Combat Training Center (CTC) in the Indo-Pacific region. Established as a “home-station” and exportable capability, it allows units to train in their own regional environments—such as jungles, archipelagos, and extreme cold—rather than traveling to conventional training centers in the continental United States.

Story by SGT David Cordova, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne)

Posted in Arctic, Army, CEMA, Drone, Guest Post | No Comments »

FN Awarded $9.9 Million Contract From U.S. Army and Navy for Machine Guns

Thursday, March 5th, 2026

(McLean, VA — March 05, 2026) FN America, LLC, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $9.9 million contract to supply the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy with FN® M240B machine guns, continuing the supply of FN America’s longest-standing military weapons platform.

“This contract continues FN’s legacy of providing the most effective and advanced weapon systems for the warfighter,” said Jim Williams, Vice President, Military Programs for FN America, LLC. “The U.S. Army contract for the M240 machine gun was the first military contract FN was awarded and the first to be produced from our production facility in South Carolina. We’re incredibly honored to continue supporting the U.S. military with high-quality and reliable weapon systems for our servicemen and women.”

The FN® M240B, built on the M240 platform that was adopted and has been in use by the U.S. military since the late 1970s, is the “go-to/can-do” medium machine gun for all branches of the U.S. military. It offers unmatched reliability, extended range and an exceptional service life. This weapon’s high volume of fire makes it the principal suppressive firearm for the infantry platoon and company.

Chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, the M240B’s cold hammer-forged MIL-SPEC barrel has a hard-chromed bore for longer life, improved accuracy and maximum range of 3,725 meters. The receiver is machined steel and is equipped with a top-mounted MIL-STD-1913 optical rail. The crossbolt safety and curved trigger help enhance operator control.

“Since beginning our first production in 1981, FN has produced millions of firearms for the U.S. military at our Columbia, SC, manufacturing facility,” said Daryl Atkins, Director, Industrialized Weapons for FN America, LLC. “FN is extremely proud of the high-quality, reliable firearms we build for our military servicemen and women, and we look forward to continuing the tradition with this contract.”

Throughout its history, FN has been one of the largest suppliers of small arms to the U.S. military and continues to develop innovative, future technology. In addition to the M240 platform, the company currently holds contracts for the FN® M249, MK 46, MK 48, MK 17 and MK 20 SSR for USSOCOM and various other contracts.

More information about FN’s military contracts and military product line can be found here.

Posted in Army, Contracts, Press Release, USMC, weapons | 1 Comment »

Counter-Drone Training in Europe Equips US Forces for Evolving Threats

Wednesday, March 4th, 2026

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — The senior enlisted advisor for Joint Interagency Task Force 401, Sgt. Maj. Kellen Rowley recently visited Germany to serve as the graduation speaker for the Joint Multidomain Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems Course, or JMDCC.

The course, a U.S. Air Forces in Europe program executed with the support of the 7th Army Training Command, is at the forefront of developing joint service capabilities to counter the growing threat of unmanned aerial systems. This effort supports JIATF-401’s mission to provide counter-drone capabilities that protect U.S. personnel and facilities both domestically and internationally through a whole-of-government approach.

During his visit, Rowley observed the course’s culminating field training exercise, a rigorous 48-hour event that tested the skills of 22 U.S. Air Force, Army and Marine noncommissioned and commissioned officers. He also received a comprehensive overview of the course’s program of instruction and engaged with the 7th ATC leadership, which included a briefing on the Bumblebee training course, Test and Evaluation Center and the Warrior Unmanned Aerial Battalion.

In his remarks to the graduating class, Rowley emphasized the importance of taking proactive C-UAS measures at all echelons.

“The proliferation of UAS technology on the modern battlefield requires us to be agile and adaptive,” said Rowley. “We must ask ourselves: what are we doing to establish and rehearse our battle drills and SOPs at the small unit level? How are we integrating C-UAS into our collective training? The answers lie in the hands of talented and dedicated individuals like you… A vigilant and prepared force is the first and most effective line of defense.”

Highlighting the need for specialized skills, Rowley added, “We must actively identify talent within our ranks — the service members who possess the knowledge, capability, and desire to excel in this rapidly evolving space. They are the future of our C-UAS enterprise.”

Rowley noted the JMDCC’s platform-agnostic approach and focus on core competencies such as electronic warfare, sensor integration, and command and control. The three-week course is structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience, with one week of classroom theory, one week of practical exercises, and one week of lane training, culminating in the final FTX.

“The JMDCC is an excellent course that has intuitively set the standard for the train-the-trainer model we need across the force,” said SGM Rowley. “To my knowledge, there is no other C-UAS course in the department operating at this level of proficiency and realism.”

U.S. Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Belgium Soldiers conduct weapons qualifications using the SMASH 2000 system during the Air Force’s Joint Multi-Domain Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator Course in the Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany, Feb. 12, 2026. The U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa assess the feasibility of expanding the Air Force’s Joint Multi-Domain Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operator Course to a multi-service environment with the growing Unmanned Aircraft Systems threat. The 7th Army Training Command remains the premier location for U.S., NATO and partner testing, experimentation, readiness and interoperability. U.S. Army video by Sgt. Collin Mackall.

Story by COL Adam Scher

Posted in Army, C-UAS, Guest Post | No Comments »