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Mehler Systems Among Germany’s TOP 100 Innovators

Saturday, February 14th, 2026

FULDA, GERMANY (11.02.2026)

Mehler Systems has been awarded the prestigious TOP 100 seal for 2026, placing the company among the most innovative medium-sized enterprises in Germany. The TOP 100 innovation competition is the only one of its kind to assess the innovation capability of mid-sized companies on the basis of a scientifically grounded analysis, with a particular focus on innovation management, forward-looking strategy and sustainable competitiveness.

“We are very proud to be among the TOP 100 innovators in Germany. This award recognises the performance of our entire team as well as our ambition to anticipate market developments years in advance as a first mover,” says Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems. “The TOP 100 seal validates our path and is also an incentive to consistently pursue our innovation agenda. Our goal is to remain a reliable, forwardthinking partner for customers, suppliers and stakeholders along the entire value chain.”

The award as one of the TOP 100 innovators highlights Mehler Systems’ innovation strategy and its clear commitment to operational excellence. Innovations are developed in close dialogue with end users and development partners, with a focus on solutions that enhance protection, operational capability and resilience under real-world conditions.

Key developments across the Mehler Systems Group range from advanced personal and platform protection solutions to next-generation load-bearing and tactical clothing systems.

Mehler Protection advances personal and platform protection through solutions developed for real operational demands. Selected examples include ExoM, a new exoskeleton concept for efficient load distribution with integrated protection; ultra-light combat helmets for military users; face protection systems certified to VPAM 6 (international ballistic testing guideline); and short-range active counter-drone systems.

At Lindnerhof, product development is shaped by a functionality-first, operator-led mindset. Solutions such as the Shikari Series and modular load-bearing platforms prioritise intuitive handling, rapid adaptability and reliability in demanding environments. Lindnerhof’s patented Hakenschnalle quick-release system enables fast donning, doffing and emergency release, allowing equipment to be adapted or removed within seconds as operational conditions change.

UF PRO translates long-term research and close cooperation with end users into tactical clothing built for unrestricted movement and sustained comfort under load. Proprietary solutions such as air/pac® improve ventilation and reduce shoulder pressure, Hood/Harness® keeps the hood aligned with head movement and preserves field of view, and Waist/Flex provides adaptive lumbar support and a stable fit during dynamic movement. The Hybrid Design concept strategically combines different materials within one garment to deliver high comfort and long-term durability.

Innovation also extends to manufacturing. Rethought production concepts and highly automated lines increase efficiency, quality and reproducibility, underlining Mehler Systems’ ambition to set technological benchmarks in modern protection and equipment systems.

Mehler Systems’ innovation activities are supported by a structured and established innovation management framework. Open communication, cross-functional collaboration and targeted internal training ensure that expertise is retained within the company and continuously developed. The innovation strategy is defined in close coordination with specialist departments to integrate different perspectives and align projects with customer requirements.

“Innovation starts with a clear objective: our long-term ambition is to become the world’s leading player in our market,” Amschlinger emphasises. “For us, innovation means developing solutions that deliver real protection and genuine reliability. Our products are based on concrete operational requirements, combined with the continual optimisation of our production and operational processes.”

For more than 25 years, the TOP 100 seal has recognised companies with outstanding innovative strength, long-term profitability and forward-looking business practices. The winners are selected through a rigorous, scientifically grounded assessment. Project partners include the Fraunhofer Society and the BVMW, with manager magazin as media partner.

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HENSOLDT and Helsing Join Forces for CA-1 Europa Autonomous Combat Aircraft

Friday, February 13th, 2026

Partnership initially for AI-supported air combat systems

Munich (Germany), 12 February 2026 – System house HENSOLDT and Helsing, two leading European defence technology companies, have agreed on a strategic partnership. The aim of the collaboration is to jointly advance modern defence technologies within a sovereign German and European technology architecture in order to make a substantial contribution to securing Western democracies in times of massive geopolitical shifts.

The first joint product of the two companies will be collaboration on Helsing’s AI-supported autonomous combat aircraft CA-1 Europa, which will sustainably strengthen the defence capabilities and technological leadership of a democratic Europe through purely national technology and supply chains.

The CA-1 Europa is to be equipped with powerful sensor technology from HENSOLDT in the future. The plan is to integrate technologies and sensors from the fields of radar, optronics, self-protection, and electromagnetic warfare. In addition, the HENSOLDT software suite MDOcore (Multi-Domain Operations Core) provides the digital backbone for multidimensional data fusion, networking, and coordination. In conjunction with Helsing’s AI agent Centaur, the combat drone will thus be able to carry out missions autonomously, process information securely, and make it available across dimensions.

The cooperation takes into account the changed security policy reality. Modern military systems must automatically collect, process, and make information usable in a very short time. The combination of powerful sensor technology and AI-based software is considered a decisive factor in making systems more adaptable and efficient. At the same time, both partners attach great importance to technological sovereignty and the development of European solutions.

HENSOLDT has many years of experience in the development and integration of state-of-the-art AI-supported sensor solutions and data fusion for military applications in the air, on the ground, at sea, in space, and in cyberspace. In addition to the autonomous combat aircraft, Helsing is contributing artificial intelligence to the project that is capable of autonomously controlling the combat aircraft itself in a network and independently processing large amounts of data for this purpose. The collaboration is clearly organized according to a division of labor: each company is responsible for its technologies and contributions within its own area of expertise.

Helsing and HENSOLDT are already working together with the Norwegian Kongsberg Group in the space sector to establish a sovereign satellite constellation for reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (IST) with a fully networked communication layer for Europe by 2029.

The two companies intend to prepare their first joint demonstrations in the coming months. The focus will be on close coordination with customers and partners in order to test new technologies in a practical setting and gradually transfer them into operational systems.

Oliver Dörre, CEO of HENSOLDT: “The future of modern defence systems lies in the intelligent and networked interaction of sensor technology and artificial intelligence. We share a common goal with Helsing: to responsibly develop innovative technologies and thus contribute to Europe’s security policy capabilities.”

Dr. Gundbert Scherf, co-founder and co-CEO of Helsing: “Our deterrence requires sovereign air superiority. With the CA-1, we are making a clear offer for credible European deterrence. The sovereignty and superiority of our armed forces depend on our systems being developed and produced by national industry champions. The partnership between Helsing and HENSOLDT is a joining of forces between two national champions. We are united by our commitment to massive investment in future technologies.”

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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