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Archive for the ‘Industry’ Category

Echodyne to Open Major New Manufacturing Facility to Meet Rapidly Growing Global Demand

Thursday, February 12th, 2026

·        $40M investment in 86,350-square-foot facility in Washington State, USA

·        Annual production capacity of >30,000 radars across product lines

·        More than 200 employees at full capacity

·        Start of production in summer 2026

Kirkland, WA, February 11, 2026 – Echodyne, the radar platform company, today announces a major near-term expansion in its advanced radar production capacity.

Echodyne’s new 86,350-square-foot facility will provide enough manufacturing and warehouse space to produce and ship more than 30,000 radars per year. The company’s modular manufacturing approach allows production capacity to flex to match varying demand across product lines as well as seamlessly introducing new product lines and capabilities. The investment reflects Echodyne’s continued commitment to: enhancing security and safety as UxS become ubiquitous on the battlefield and in society in general, staying ahead of the accelerating demand in the U.S. and in Allied countries around the globe, and strengthening America’s defense industrial base.

Counter-UAS (C-UAS), beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations for drone-as-first-responders (DFR), force protection, border security, and on-the-move (OTM) are among the applications and capabilities driving accelerating demand for high-resolution radar surveillance of air and surface domains. The company’s patented metamaterials electronically scanned array (MESA®) technology delivers unrivaled data fidelity – pinpoint accuracy, track stability, AI-based classification of threats, and well-defined high-speed application programming interfaces (APIs) for easy integration into systems of systems – in a compact, solid-state, commercially-exportable radar product.

Eben Frankenberg, the CEO of Echodyne, commented:

“We are proud to be opening this new facility in Washington State, the location of our headquarters and a long-time global hub for tech innovation and advanced manufacturing. The extraordinary performance of MESA radar stands in marked contrast to the purposeful simplicity of its design, making high-fidelity radar broadly accessible for defense and civilian safety and security applications. This new investment in manufacturing capacity will allow us to supercharge production to meet the rapidly growing global demand for our products.”

Echodyne expects to continue to hire at a rapid pace to support its expanding manufacturing operations. Open positions can be found at Echodyne.com/careers.

D-Fend Solutions Named in 2025 Gartner Emerging Tech: Top-funded Startups for Cyber Electronic Defense (CED)

Thursday, February 12th, 2026

RA’ANANA, Israel and MCLEAN, Va., February 12th — D-Fend Solutions, the leader in field-proven radio frequency (RF) cyber-based, non-kinetic, non-jamming counter-drone takeover technology, has been named in the Gartner Emerging Tech: Top-funded Startups for Cyber Electronic Defense (CED).

According to Gartner, in a Key Finding of the report, “commercial counter-drone success hinges on nonkinetic, high-precision counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) technology. Solutions that can neutralize threats without causing collateral damage or disrupting legitimate civilian communications are favored.”

In a related Recommendation, Gartner advises organizations to “Secure commercial market leadership by prioritizing scalable, nonkinetic mitigation systems that guarantee low collateral damage. Do this by implementing AI-driven sensor fusion to precisely distinguish alien assets from legitimate communication signals and demonstrating practical efficacy.”

According to the report, “the drone detection and mitigation category received significant commercial investment, driven by the reality that inexpensive, widely accessible drones pose threats to private enterprises, energy grids, and public venues. Consequently, investment is heavily focused on companies providing scalable, nonkinetic solutions that can operate within urban and regulatory-sensitive environments without causing collateral damage.”  D-Fend Solutions is an example of one such company.

Regarding Near-term Implications and Actions, Gartner states that “To protect against widely accessible, inexpensive drones in civilian settings, leaders must focus on solutions that are scalable, effective, and nondestructive. Product leaders should prioritize the development of modular, open-architecture C-UAS systems that leverage easily deployable detection sensors.”

Gartner subscribers can access the report here.

Gartner, Emerging Tech: Top-funded Startups for Cyber Electronic Defense (CED), 8 December 2025. GARTNER is a trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates. Gartner does not endorse any company, vendor, product or service depicted in its publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s business and technology insights organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this publication, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

Darley Defense Launches New Online Defense Platform Dedicated to Supporting the Military Community

Thursday, February 12th, 2026

ITASCA, IL – February 11th, 2026 – Darley Defense, a leading provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment, is proud to announce the launch of its new online defense platform at darley.com/defense. This modernized online platform is built to best serve our customers and partners, delivering a unified user experience that streamlines navigation, accelerates content sourcing, and simplifies access to procurement information.

The updated site clearly highlights Darley’s innovative capabilities and longstanding legacy of service. By integrating intuitive design and improved functionality, the new Darley Defense page ensures that visitors can quickly find the resources they need while exploring solutions that support mission success.

“Darley has a long legacy of supporting those who protect and serve, and this launch marks a major step forward in how we connect our defense community to mission critical solutions,” said Audrey Darley, Vice President of Defense Supply Chain. “By integrating modern technology with decades of expertise, we’re providing a streamlined, intuitive experience that helps our customers move their missions forward.”

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

DroneShield Appoints Michael Powell as COO to Support Global Expansion and Operational Scale

Wednesday, February 11th, 2026

10 February 2026 – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-UAS technology, today announced the appointment of Michael Powell as Chief Operating Officer, reinforcing the company’s operational leadership as it enters its next phase of global growth.

The appointment follows a period of accelerated expansion for DroneShield, including increased activity across Europe and the United States, rising demand from defense, government, and critical-infrastructure customers, and a major expansion of manufacturing capacity at the company’s Alexandria, New South Wales facility. The expanded site significantly increases production throughput, shortens delivery timelines, and strengthens supply-chain resilience, positioning DroneShield to support long-term programs of record and sustained global demand.

Michael brings more than 25 years of senior executive and operational leadership experience across defense, aerospace, secure communications, simulation, railway and critical infrastructure markets. His career includes senior roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Managing Director, and Operations Director at leading international organizations including Thales Australia and Knorr-Bremse, where he led large, multinational teams and managed complex, multi-hundred-million-dollar operational portfolios.

Image: Michael Powell, Chief Operating Officer, DroneShield

Across these roles, Michael has built and scaled global manufacturing and supply-chain operations, led international business turnarounds, and delivered large-scale operational transformation programs, balancing execution discipline with the demands of high-reliability, mission-critical customers.

As Chief Operating Officer, Michael will be responsible for scaling DroneShield’s global operations, strengthening delivery and sustainment capability, and aligning engineering, manufacturing, and supply-chain functions to support the company’s expanding product portfolio and growing international customer base. His appointment reflects DroneShield’s focus on operational excellence as counter-UAS capability becomes embedded within national security, public safety, and critical-infrastructure protection frameworks worldwide.

“Michael is a proven operator with deep experience delivering complex programs at global scale,” said Oleg Vornik, Chief Executive of DroneShield. “As demand for counter-UAS capability continues to accelerate, his leadership will be instrumental in ensuring DroneShield scales with discipline, resilience, and a relentless focus on customer outcomes.”

Michael has lived and worked across Australia, Asia-Pacific, United States, Europe, and the Middle East. He holds a Master of Business Administration, a Bachelor of Engineering and is a Chartered Professional Engineer, and is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineers.

Shell Tech Launches Shell Tech Gear

Tuesday, February 10th, 2026

The new website features the Shell Tech™-branded apparel and accessories line, featuring durable and modern clothing and lifestyle accessories tailored to the 2A, shooting sports, and hunting communities.

Eubank, Ky. (February 2026) – Shell Tech™, a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, is proud to announce the launch of Shell Tech Gear, a dedicated website for its Shell Tech-branded apparel and accessories. This new gear-focused website will sell Shell Tech’s premium apparel and accessories collection designed for outdoor enthusiasts, firearms aficionados, and hunting communities. Combining durability, functionality, and modern style, Shell Tech Apparel offers high-performance gear, such as t-shirts, hoodies, hats, and flannels, built to keep up with the most demanding lifestyles.

“This launch expands Shell Tech into a true lifestyle brand,” said Peter Foss, Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. “Our gear is built for people who push hard, train hard, and live boldly. We’re proud to offer apparel and accessories that reflect the strength and spirit of our community.”

Designed for comfort and durability, the Shell Tech T-Shirt line is crafted from premium-grade, breathable cotton blends. These shirts feature reinforced double-stitched seams for enhanced durability, shrink-resistant construction for longevity and hassle-free care, and modern, tailored fits in bold color options. Available in Sizes Small to 2XL for $24.99.

Built for versatility and all-weather performance, the Shell Tech Hoodie is crafted with innovative Tech-Terry™ material. This mid-weight hoodie offers optimal warmth and breathability, ensuring you stay comfortable whether trekking through rugged trails, hunting, or relaxing by the campfire. Its sleek design delivers a modern yet practical aesthetic, suitable for any outdoor activity. The Shell Tech Hoodie boasts secure, easy-to-access pockets to keep your essentials within reach, while its adjustable hood and relaxed fit provide a perfect balance between mobility and protection. Sustainably made with responsibly sourced materials, this hoodie reflects Shell Tech’s commitment to eco-conscious living without compromising on durability or performance. Lightweight yet resilient, it is built to handle the demands of year-round adventures, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Available in Sizes Small to 2XL for $49.95.

For those who appreciate a rugged, functional style, the Shell Tech Flannel provides a perfect balance of warmth, durability, and flexibility. Crafted from a resilient cotton-polyester blend, this flannel is perfect for all-season wear. Thoughtful details like a glass-cleaning hem, stylish contrast taping, and secure buttoned pocket flaps enhance both practicality and aesthetic appeal. Lightweight and travel-friendly, it’s the ultimate companion for hunts, range outings, or weekend adventures. Available in Sizes Small to 2XL for $59.95 – $69.95.

From Hi-Vis Logo Caps to the Shell Tech Truck Cap, Shell Tech headwear is meticulously designed for performance-driven outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring quick-drying, UV-protected fabrics, our headwear shields you from the elements while ensuring a tactical, stylish finish that’s built to last. MSRP $24.95.

Beyond apparel, Shell Tech has also expanded into high-quality accessories designed to support an active lifestyle, perfect for outdoor adventurers and their four-legged companions. This includes products like the Shell Tech Dog Bowl, which is ruggedly designed to withstand tough environments while feeding your dog, and the Shell Tech Rambler 24-Oz. Mug with Magslider™ Lid, crafted with double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks icy cold or piping hot for hours.

Shell Tech Apparel and Accessories seamlessly combine innovation, durability, and style, ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. Designed for those who push the limits, the collection features premium materials, reinforced construction, and functional designs tailored to outdoor and shooting sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re braving the elements, training at the range, or embracing an active lifestyle, Shell Tech Gear is built to perform – everywhere, every time.

?Join the Shell Tech Community and experience apparel and accessories built for those who demand excellence. ?Keep up with Shell Tech’s advanced ammunition on the website and social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Gentex Corporation, Under Its Ops-Core Brand, Announces Sponsorship of the Alliance Police Training Facility

Monday, February 9th, 2026

Carbondale, PA – February 9, 2026 – Gentex Corporation today announced its sponsorship of the Alliance Police Training Facility in Alliance, Ohio, through its Ops-Core® brand, the premier provider of high-performance helmet systems and integrated equipment for law enforcement and military professionals.

With decades of experience as a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, emergency responders and industrial personnel, Gentex’s sponsorship reflects acommitment to supporting law enforcement readiness with the highest performing products and investments that directly enhance officer safety, capability, and mission effectiveness. The Alliance Police Training Facility is widely recognized for delivering some of the most realistic, high-intensity training programs in the country, serving officers, tactical teams, and first responders and prepared civilians nationwide. Located in Alliance, Ohio, the facility has established itself as one of the premier law enforcement training destinations on the East Coast, attracting departments from across the region, including federal law enforcement agencies from major Ohio cities and tactical teams from as far as Tennessee. With a mix of open-enrollment courses and specialized law enforcement training programs, the range serves as a central hub for local, regional, and federal agencies seeking advanced training, making it a natural partner for Gentex’s commitment to supporting officers where real-world training happens.

“Alliance PD Range plays a crucial role in preparing law enforcement officers for real-world challenges,” said Fred Grimm, VP of Commercial Sales Americas. “We’re proud to support their mission and ensure officers have access to the modern protective solutions they rely on in the field.”

As part of the sponsorship, Gentex will work with the facility to integrate its latest Ops-Core helmet systems, modular accessories, and communications-ready platforms into training programs, enhancing safety and providing officers hands-on experience with equipment designed to support them in dynamic operational environments.

“This partnership helps us elevate the training experience we provide,” said Joe Weyer, Training Officer, Alliance Police Training Facility. “Ops-Core is trusted by teams across the country, and Gentex’s support ensures our officers are equipped with the best possible protective technology.”

The sponsorship strengthens Gentex’s longstanding dedication to serving law enforcement communities and reinforces Ops-Core’s position as a leading brand for advanced, mission-configurable headborne protection.

For more information about Ops-Core and its law enforcement solutions, visit www.ops-core.com.

Department of War Launches LYNX to Help Businesses Enter and Compete in Defense Markets

Monday, February 9th, 2026

The Department of War (DoW) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) announced the launch of LYNX, a new digital platform designed to strengthen supplier readiness, improve visibility into business capabilities, and expand participation across the defense industrial base. Registration is now open at www.lynxconnect.io for businesses seeking to connect with mission-aligned partners and opportunities. Businesses begin by creating a company profile and completing an initial assessment to establish a readiness baseline and identify next steps.

“LYNX turns readiness into action,” said Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy Michael Cadenazzi. “It’s designed to help companies present their capabilities clearly, prioritize the right steps, and move toward mission-aligned opportunities with greater speed and confidence.”

LYNX is built for new entrants, small businesses, non-traditional suppliers, and growing defense contractors that have strong technical capabilities but face challenges navigating defense requirements, readiness expectations, and partner discovery. For many companies, the barrier to entry is not innovation or expertise, it is understanding how to move from capability to credible participation in mission-aligned opportunities.

LYNX is a platform designed as a comprehensive suite that empowers businesses to navigate the complex government contracting landscape with greater confidence and precision. The platform also benefits the Department by addressing long-standing challenges such as limited visibility into supplier readiness and fragmented pathways to engagement. LYNX creates a shared environment where companies can demonstrate readiness and DoW can more effectively identify, assess, and engage suppliers aligned to priority mission and technology needs.

“LYNX reflects OSBP’s commitment to reducing barriers to entry and expanding participation across the defense industrial base,” said James Mismash, Director of Small Business Programs. “By providing a common framework for readiness and capability, LYNX supports faster engagement, smarter collaboration, and more resilient supplier growth.”

Through LYNX, companies can present their capabilities with confidence, assess readiness across key dimensions, and receive Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML)-informed roadmaps that help focus investment on actions most likely to advance defense participation. At the same time, the platform improves discovery and connection which enables more precise partner matching and opportunity alignment tied to mission and technology priorities.

LYNX supports supplier readiness and Department priorities by helping companies to:

  • Increase visibility with a credible company profile that is easy to build, update, export, and share
  • Clarify readiness through in-depth assessments that identify needs and prioritize actions
  • Turn goals into execution using AI/ML-informed roadmaps aligned to business objectives
  • Accelerate discovery of teaming partners and opportunities through advanced search and AI-driven matching
  • Pursue more strategically by evaluating opportunity fit against capabilities and readiness
  • Build capability and confidence through training resources and access to expert support

LYNX is part of DoW’s broader effort to improve visibility into supplier capabilities and support industrial base growth in priority technology areas. Register now at www.lynxconnect.io.

About the Office of the Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy (OASW(IBP)) 

The Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy (ASD IBP) works with domestic and international partners to forge and sustain a robust, secure, and resilient industrial base enabling the warfighter, now and in the future. 

About the Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) 

The Department of War Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) expands small business participation in defense acquisition by reducing barriers, accelerating pathways, and connecting companies with mission needs.

Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing Welcomes Anne Mauro as Director of Special Events & Technical Services Specialist

Sunday, February 8th, 2026

NAPLES, Fla. – February 2, 2026 – Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing, a leading premium firearms retailer, proudly announces the addition of Anne Mauro as director of special events and technical services specialist. As a recognized leader in the shooting sports and shotgun industry, Mauro offers a wealth of experience that will further strengthen Cole’s outreach and promotion.

Mauro travels nationwide introducing women to shotgun sports and hunting and serves as an NRA Board of Directors Sub-committee member. She is also an essential member of the USA Shooting, NRA National Coach Development Staff and NSCA/NSSA. Mauro is an NRA Certified Advanced Shotgun Coach Level 3, one of twenty and one of 5 women in the country to hold this elite certification. In 2025, she was honored with the prestigious NRA Golden Bullseye Award as Industry Woman of the Year.

Mauro established and serves as head coach of the co-ed University of Maryland Clay Target Team, coaching athletes to 71 medals in the American and International clay target disciplines. Notable coaching wins include:

ACUI – SCTP Collegiate Nationals Division I Classic: All-Around Silver (2025)

ACUI’s Upper East Coast Conference Championship, HOA

Champion: 2021-2022, 2013-2014

Silver: 2025-2026, 2024-2025, 2023-2024, 2022-2023, 2018-2019

Bronze: 2017-2018, 2016-2017

ACUI National Clay Target Championship (2019)

Bronze: In-Class Sporting Clays, In-Class American Trap

Additionally, Mauro created and leads the NSCA Discover Sporting Clays Experience for Ladies, NSCA Intermediate Sporting Clays Experience for Ladies and NSCA Ladies Open Tournament held annually during the NSCA National Championships.

“Anne’s depth of knowledge and leadership is unmatched in our industry,” said Rich Cole, owner of Cole Gunsmithing. “Her experience and passion in the shotgun space aligns perfectly with our mission, and she strengthens every aspect of what we do. Cole Gunsmithing is thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

As the former vice president of Syren USA, Mauro was instrumental in the successful design and introduction of superior firearms for women with Italian gun makers Caesar Guerini USA/Italy and Fabarm USA/Italy. Following this success, she joined the executive management and engineering team of Blaser Jagdwaffen GmbH in Germany, where she created the Intuition Series of shotguns and rifles for world-wide distribution.

“It is an honor to be an integral member with the highly talented and sought-after Cole Team,” said Mauro. “Developing specialized programs, solving technical needs, working with our brands and serving the shooting communities for greater growth are areas I enjoy focusing my knowledge and experience.” 

At Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing, Mauro bridges technical expertise and consumer engagement. She plays a key role in program development, event strategy and brand collaboration, working within the shooting community to expand Cole’s presence. Through specialized initiatives and events, she helps showcase Cole’s products and services while strengthening connections across the industry.

For more information on Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing and the premium firearms offered, visit www.colegun.com or contact the team at (800) 650-2653.