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Systems Engineering Earns CMMC Level 2 Certification with Perfect Score, Demonstrating Operational Cybersecurity Excellence

Monday, November 10th, 2025

The company’s 110/110 assessment score confirms the maturity, rigor, and real-world readiness of its program to meet DoD standards and protect sensitive information.

PORTLAND, Maine, Nov. 6, 2025 — Systems Engineering, a leading Managed Service Provider (MSP) and Registered Practitioner Organization (RPO) serving highly regulated industries, announced today that it has successfully achieved Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2 with a perfect score of 110. This milestone confirms its managed services, engineering capabilities, technology platforms, and advisory offerings meet the rigorous cybersecurity requirements established by the U.S. Department of Defense.

“Achieving CMMC certification is significant, but receiving a perfect 110 out of 110 assessment score with no deficiencies highlights the maturity and rigor of our information security program,” said Erik Thomas, Director of Advisory Services at Systems Engineering. “This isn’t theory-it’s operational proof that we walk the walk when it comes to cybersecurity maturity.”

The certification was attained for Systems Engineering’s secure enclave environment, where its own Managed Services were deployed and operated just as they are for its clients’ computing systems. Achieving CMMC Level 2 certification validates our ability to protect sensitive data, including Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), demonstrates the strength and compliance of Systems Engineering’s Managed Services offerings, enforces a compliant vendor ecosystem, and further enhances the capability of SE’s consulting practice.

What This Means for Clients

Proven Compliance Maturity: Systems Engineering clients can trust that its managed service offerings and engineering solutions stand up to one of the most demanding cybersecurity frameworks in the nation.

Enhanced Advisory Credibility: Unlike firms that only advise, Systems Engineering has gone through the entire CMMC certification process. This hands-on experience equips the team to offer practical, tested guidance to clients preparing for their own assessments.

A Trusted Vendor Ecosystem: The certification reinforces that Systems Engineering’s technology stack and vendor partners are thoroughly vetted and aligned with the CMMC framework.

A Proven Partner for CMMC Readiness and Beyond

As CMMC requirements begin to appear in defense contracts starting in November 2025, Systems Engineering is actively supporting defense contractors and subcontractors through every stage of their compliance journey. Our CMMC Services include CUI network scoping, gap analysis, remediation, program documentation, and long-term compliance program management. These services, when coupled with our managed IT operational services and cybersecurity services, position our clients for successful Assessments and beyond.

“Our clients demand more than checklists. They need end-to-end solutions that are field-tested and future-ready,” added Kent Goodrow, Chief Information Security Officer at Systems Engineering. “This certification gives us even more credibility to guide them forward with confidence.”

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DroneShield Names US Advisory Board

Monday, November 10th, 2025

DroneShield brings together leading U.S. military and national security experts to support continued expansion across U.S. and allied markets
The Advisory Board strengthens strategic engagement with government and industry partners

Sydney, Australia – Warrenton, Viriginia – 7 November, 2025– DroneShield, a global leader in advanced counter-drone technology, is pleased to announce the establishment of its U.S. Advisory Board, comprising senior military and national security leaders with extensive operational and industry expertise.&

The Advisory Board will support DroneShield’s expanding U.S. operations, providing strategic guidance on growth, policy engagement, and technology adoption within military, intelligence, and critical infrastructure sectors.

General Mark D. Kelly (Ret.), U.S. Air Force

General Kelly completed a 38-year career in the United States Air Force, most recently serving as Commander, Air Combat Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, where he led and prepared combat-ready air, space, cyber, and intelligence forces for global operations. His distinguished career includes previous roles as Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Headquarters U.S. Air Force at the Pentagon, and as Commander of both 9th and 12th Air Forces. A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Fighter Weapons School and the National War College, General Kelly is a command pilot with over 6,000 flight hours, including 800 combat hours in fighter aircraft.

Brigadier General Gwyn Armfield (Ret.), U.S. Air Force

Brigadier General Armfield recently completed nearly three decades of service in the U.S. Air Force. He is the founder of RGA Consulting Group, advising clients in leadership, risk management, and technology development. His military career included roles as Vice Director for Strategy and Plans at U.S. Central Command and Deputy Commanding General for U.S. and Coalition Special Operations Forces in Afghanistan. A former National Security Fellow at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, he was also Chief of Strategy for U.S. European Command and recipient of the Air Force’s Lance Sijan Leadership Award for his actions in Afghanistan.

Lt. Jay Humphlett (Ret.), U.S. Navy

A business transformation and military industry leader, Jay Humphlett has driven high-impact strategic capture initiatives at Raytheon and Dataminr. A former U.S. Navy F-14 Tomcat Radar Intercept Officer and TOPGUN graduate, he has held senior executive roles across venture capital, military, and intelligence-driven technology sectors. His experience spans a variety of markets and business models to include SaaS, AI, PAI/OSINT, Special Mission Aviation, hardware, systems integration, and services. His career includes leadership positions as President of a special mission aviation firm and CEO of a global health protection company.

Anthony P. Reardon (Ret.), U.S. Air Force

Anthony Reardon served as Administrative Assistant to the Secretary of the Air Force, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Arlington, Virginia, as a member of the Senior Executive Service prior to his retirement. As the Air Force’s senior career civilian advisor to the Secretary, he oversaw a $5.6 billion annual portfolio and more than 37,000 personnel, implementing Secretariat policies, goals, and objectives. Earlier in his career, Mr. Reardon held senior roles including Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Plans and Requirements; Director of Policy, Plans, and Strategy for Air Force International Affairs; and Deputy Director of Legislative Liaison. A former active-duty Air Force Weapons Systems Officer, fling the RF-4C and held staff positions across multiple commands, accruing over 1,900 flight hours.

DroneShield continues to expand its U.S. footprint across government and commercial markets, with growing demand for its AI-enabled counter-UAS, electronic warfare, and threat-detection solutions.

“The formation of our U.S. Advisory Board marks another milestone in DroneShield’s growth trajectory. Each member brings unique insight from decades of leadership across military operations, military technology, and national security. Their collective experience will strengthen DroneShield’s ability to support U.S. and allied partners in addressing the evolving drone threat environment,” said Oleg Vornik, CEO, DroneShield.

Posted in C-UAS, Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

ARK Protection Group Partners with HOP Munitions as Official Ammunition Provider

Monday, November 10th, 2025

Haysville, OH – HOP Munitions, a veteran-operated ammunition manufacturer based in Ohio, is proud to announce its new partnership with ARK Protection Group, a premier security and executive protection firm. Through this partnership, HOP Munitions will serve as ARK’s official ammunition provider for both training and operational requirements.

Several key factors contributed to this collaboration, including the close geographic proximity of the two companies, HOP Munitions’ proven record of producing high-quality, consistent ammunition, and a shared mission to support and equip law enforcement and security professionals with the necessary tools to protect and serve.

“Partnering with ARK Protection Group aligns perfectly with our mission of supporting those serving in the line of duty,” said Tyler, Operations Manager of HOP Munitions. “Their professionalism and dedication to training & protecting mirror our own commitment to quality and performance in every round we produce.”

ARK Protection Group, founded by Ron Gazboda, a former U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant with extensive operational and training experience, provides executive protection, estate security, event security, tactical training, and armored vehicle solutions to clients worldwide. Leveraging decades of combined military and private security experience, ARK delivers a comprehensive range of protective services. The company’s agents are trained to manage complex, high-threat environments with discretion and effectiveness.

“This partnership demonstrates both companies’ pledge to support law enforcement and security professionals with reliable equipment, standardized training procedures, and optimal performance.”

– Ron Gazboda

This partnership reflects both companies’ commitment to supporting law enforcement and security professionals with reliable tools, proven training standards, and real-world performance.

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

Darley Named Chicagoland Top Workplace by Chicago Tribune

Sunday, November 9th, 2025

ITASCA, IL – November 7, 2025 – Darley, a leading provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment, is proud to announce it has been named as a 2025 Chicagoland Top Workplace by the Chicago Tribune.

To earn this recognition, the Chicago Tribune partners with Energage LLC, a third-party employee engagement technology firm, to conduct confidential surveys that capture authentic employee feedback. The survey uniquely measures various aspects of the employee experience, including how employees feel respected & supported, enabled to grow, and empowered to execute.

“Being named a Chicagoland Top Workplace by the Chicago Tribune is a tremendous honor because it reflects the voices of our employees,” comments Paul Darley, President & CEO of Darley. “At Darley, we strive to foster a culture where every team member feels valued, supported, and empowered to grow. This recognition affirms that our people-first approach is making a meaningful

Learn more on our websites: www.darley.com and shop.darley.com.

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Vortex Celebrates Service with Veterans Day Gathering

Thursday, November 6th, 2025

Vortex® invites veterans to a morning of appreciation at its Barneveld headquarters.

BARNEVELD, Wis. – This Veterans Day, we’re opening our doors at Vortex® to say thank you. From 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. on November 11th, veterans and active-duty service members are invited to stop by our headquarters showroom for coffee and conversation, as a show of our appreciation.

Here’s what we’ve got planned:

Coffee on us – Show your military ID and grab a cup from the Boss Cow truck.

Challenge coin – Pick up a Spirit of Service coin in the showroom.

Meet the team – Members of Vortex®, including CEO Joe Hamilton, will be around to say thanks.

Showroom photo booth – Snap a keepsake before you go.

It’s a simple way for us to recognize the people in our community who have served. If you’re a veteran, we hope you’ll join us. If you know a veteran, help us spread the word.

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

Galvion and South 8 Technologies Sign Letter of Intent to Collaborate on Lithium-ion Battery Technology for Extreme Cold Environments

Thursday, November 6th, 2025

Galvion, a global leader in the design and manufacture of intelligent power and data management solutions, innovative head systems and integrated soldier systems, today announced it has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with South 8 Technologies, a San Diego–based innovator redefining lithium-ion battery performance with its patented LiGas® cell technology. The LOI represents a shared commitment between two innovative defense and energy organizations to push the boundaries of battery performance through focused research and product development.

Galvion and South 8 are dedicated to using advanced battery technology to further address the challenges faced by today’s warfighter. As modern military operations extend into increasingly harsh and unpredictable environments, particularly the Arctic and other cold-climate theaters, limitations in today’s energy solutions become clear. The LOI establishes the framework for cooperative innovation, knowledge exchange, and field-focused testing to accelerate customers’ operational readiness in sub-zero temperatures. The initial scope of the work is guided by the urgent needs of defense customers in the US and Northern Europe who demand improved battery performance in climates with extreme temperatures. By leveraging South 8’s LiGas cell technology and aligning R&D capabilities, the collaboration seeks to demonstrate next-generation battery systems capable of operating reliably in Arctic conditions, with sustained temperatures as low as -60 °C (-76°F).

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO of Galvion said: “We have spent over a decade driving innovations in power provision and management to provide solutions that can adapt to the ever-changing operational needs of the modern warfighter. Arctic readiness is a new reality and partnering with South 8 allows us to explore battery technology that is specifically engineered to cope better with the challenges of extreme cold environments.” He added: “We see a lot of opportunity in combining South 8’s LiGas cell technology with our field-proven SoloPack™ battery family so we can provide defense customers with energy solutions that further enhance resilience, reliability, and mission readiness in extreme environments.”

“At South 8, we are redefining what is possible for lithium-ion performance in the harshest environments. This LOI with Galvion represents an exciting step toward enabling reliable energy storage in extreme cold applications where conventional batteries struggle. By integrating our LiGas cells, customers like Galvion can deliver unmatched performance and resilience, supporting critical missions in the world’s most demanding conditions.” said Jungwoo Lee, CEO of South 8 Technologies.

Galvion and South 8 will explore opportunities for joint development and commercialization of battery solutions that take full advantage of the South 8 LiGas cells’ wide temperature discharging and recharging capabilities as well as improved safety characteristics.

Posted in Industry, International, Power, Press Release | 1 Comment »

A4ESSOR and OCCAR Sign New Procurement Contract to Advance Development of Interoperable Tactical Communications

Tuesday, November 4th, 2025

Procurement contract to carry out the capability deployment of the ESSOR High Data Rate Waveform – EHDRWF.

Munich/Bonn, November 3, 2025 — a4ESSOR S.A.S (Alliance for ESSOR – European Secure Software Defined Radio), a multinational joint venture that develops secure software defined radio (SDR) technology, has signed a procurement contract with the intergovernmental Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) to carry out the capability deployment of the ESSOR High Data Rate Waveform – EHDRWF. The waveform can be ported to national software-defined radios; through this unique approach, any nation can use its own radio and be interoperable with other nations in their tactical communications. The contract for the so called ESSOR Development Stage #4 (ES4) is valued in excess of 47 million EUR.

The six nations involved and their respective industry leaders (Finland – Bittium, France – Thales, Germany –Rohde & Schwarz, Italy – Leonardo, Poland – Radmor, Spain – Indra) have then been working to add new features, such as electronic protection measures and support of modern cryptographic standards, leading to several successful interoperability demonstrations and qualification tests and to the adoption of ESSOR High Data Rate Waveform as NATO STANAG 5651 in 2023.

Under the new contract, a4ESSOR will design a common mission framework aimed at shared planning capability of network parameters of the EHDRWF. Once implemented in the command-and-control system of each nation, the mission framework will ensure high interoperability at operational level, allowing quick and accurate deployment of multinational EHDRWF networks.

a4ESSOR will conduct field tests of the EHDRWF on the various radio systems to assess the maturity, performance and reliability of the waveform in various scenarios, providing valuable feedback for future waveform enhancements. The field test will also include trials in different operational environments (urban, rural and hilly terrains), line-of-sight/non-line-of-sight and mobility scenarios, as well as analysis of waveform performances under potential interference conditions. Furthermore, the contract will define an ESSOR in-service support framework and will set up an ESSOR laboratory as the reference for interoperability validation.

Lino Laganà, President and General Manager of a4ESSOR, said “a4ESSOR has been active for over 16 years playing a crucial role to develop and test ESSOR capabilities and technologies to address multinational defence requirements as a valuable solution in addition to the existing legacy waveforms. The ESSOR HDRWF standard is capable to facilitate seamless communications across diverse radio platforms and nations, affirming its potential to enhance collaborative defence operations across Europe and NATO countries.”

“The mission framework will allow a quantum leap forward in terms of interoperability among armed forces from various countries, as it will define what’s needed to achieve interoperability in mission planning and management. We will work at defining the required solutions towards their integration onto command & control systems of the various countries. It’s an evolution enabler, from technical to operational interoperability.”

Lino Laganà continued “The project aligns with the European Union’s strategic objectives of strengthening defence cooperation, enhancing autonomy, and improving the efficiency of combined military missions. By equipping EU member states with secure, interoperable, and scalable communication solutions, the initiative strengthens Europe’s collective ability to respond to threats and ensures seamless coordination in operations.”

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

Apium Joins Red Cat Futures Initiative to Advance Swarming Autonomy for Tactical Drones

Tuesday, November 4th, 2025

Partnership follows successful U.S. Army testing of Apium’s Swarm Autopilot and Ground Control system integrated into Red Cat’s Teal Drone Operational CapabilitiesSAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Nov. 04, 2025 – Apium Swarm Robotics, Inc. a developer of distributed autonomy for unmanned systems, has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT), a U.S. based provider of advanced all-domain drone and robotic solutions for defense and national security.

Through this agreement, Apium joins the Red Cat Futures Initiative, an industry-wide robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) consortium dedicated to putting the most advanced and interoperable uncrewed aircraft systems into the hands of warfighters.

The announcement follows successful integration of Apium’s technology onto Red Cat’s Teal 2 drone enabling the drones to autonomously perform multi-agent missions at the Army’s ACM-UAS Industry Day at Fort Rucker, Alabama. The demonstration showcased the value of decentralized, scalable drone swarming for modern military operations.

“One to Many swarming is the future of autonomous warfare,” said Tyler MacCready, Founder and Chief Scientist at Apium. “However, there needs to be a balance between autonomy and operator accessibility to ensure effectiveness. Our technology allows full swarm capability to be added to existing ‘off the shelf’ multi-domain UxS enabling a single operator to launch, command, and adapt swarms in real time without complex pre-mission planning or centralized control. Partnering with Red Cat and joining the Futures Initiative enables us to deliver that capability at the tactical edge.”

Enabling Tactical Swarms at Scale

Apium’s system scalability is a result of moving the swarm logic from a centralized ground station to the drone itself. This allows each drone to make independent decisions through cooperation with neighboring vehicles without requiring a constant up-link or ground control. This architecture eliminates single points of failure, allowing the swarm to continue to operate even when vehicles fail or ground station communications are lost. The system has also demonstrated resiliency when degraded by jamming or interference.

Operators can engage any of the variety of behaviors found in Apium’s Swarm Library with just a few taps on a touch screen interface. These behaviors range in complexity from orbiting over a target, to fully automated collaborative sorties. Behaviors may be changed or adjusted, at any time, even after the swarm has been launched. Vehicles may join or leave the swarm mid-mission, allowing vehicles to be temporarily reassigned for direct individual control, sensor ops, or kinetic action and later reintegrate with the swarm seamlessly.

“Apium’s system brings distributed drone swarming out of the lab and onto the battlefield,” said Jason Gunter, Director of Special Programs at Red Cat and head of the Futures Initiative. “They’ve proven that you can run adaptive, resilient swarming behaviors with minimal operator burden and without constant connectivity or centralized control. This is a major leap forward for tactical autonomy and the exact capability our warfighters need in complex, contested environments.”

Scaling Autonomy for Complex Operational Environments

The Futures Initiative is a strategic collaboration aimed to fast-track the deployment of autonomous systems across air, land, and sea. It connects Red Cat with industry innovators in AI and computer vision applications, 3D mapping, target acquisition, swarming, and other sUAS decision support features. The program also supports broader national efforts such as the DoD’s priority to rapidly field attritable, autonomous platforms.

By joining the Futures Initiative, Apium will collaborate with Red Cat to integrate its swarm-enabled platform across Red Cat’s entire Family of Systems, led by the Black Widow™. Apium’s technology is also autopilot-agnostic, compatible with PX4, ArduPilot, and other common systems, enabling rapid integration across both current and future unmanned assets.

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