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Archive for the ‘Industry’ Category

Rheinmetall Builds Facility for Destroying Legacy Ammunition

Friday, September 5th, 2025

For the future to come, Rheinmetall is planning to destroy large quantities of legacy ammunition in the district of Dillingen an der Donau, Bavaria/Germany. 

As part of explosive ordnance disposal projects in offshore and onshore areas, the Düsseldorf-based technology corporation intends to destroy not only legacy munitions from the two world wars, but also so-called ‘newer stockpiled ammunition’, and to take over the disposal of old stocks of the Bundeswehr and other NATO forces.

An estimated 1.6 million tonnes of legacy munitions are believed to be on the seabed of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea alone. These include artillery shells, land and sea mines as well as aircraft bombs. In addition, over 2 million tonnes of bombs were dropped on Germany and the occupied territories during World War II. In southern Germany alone, it is estimated that there are still more than 20,000 tonnes of old ammunition that needs to be deactivated and disposed.

Rheinmetall has acquired a site covering around 41 hectares on Lerchenberg, which is part of the Bavarian municipality of Zusamaltheim. The ammunition disposal facility is scheduled to commence operation in early 2026. The property, which also served as a Bundeswehr depot in the past, also has 32 bunkers that can store up to 900 tonnes of net explosive mass.

In April of 2025, Rheinmetall had already acquired the ammunition recovery company Stascheit GmbH, based in Gardelegen, Saxony-Anhalt. Its main activities include the detection, evaluation, recovery and destruction of explosive ordnances, for example in connection with offshore wind farms. Like the new facility on Lerchenberg, Stascheit GmbH will also be integrated into the Projects & Services business unit of Rheinmetall AG.

Digital Manufacturing Centre (DMC) Announces Successful Delivery of UK’s Project TAMPA Spiral 2 Component to NP Aerospace

Friday, September 5th, 2025

The Digital Manufacturing Centre (DMC), an industry-leading production facility and additive manufacturing (AdM) Engineering Research & Development centre, has announced the successful delivery of the largest AdM metal component the DMC has worked on to date – a 3D printed 90kg Mastiff suspension and differential carrier for NP Aerospace. The production process engineering and development, manufacture and certification of this innovative methodology proves DMC’s ability to pioneer large scale format AdM metal components to MoD’s exacting requirements, while reducing lead times and minimising expensive tooling costs. The part, engineered and developed by NP Aerospace and manufactured by DMC, will be on display at NP Aerospace’s stand N2-410 at DSEi 25, Excel, London (9-12 September 2025).

Working in partnership with NP Aerospace, DMC engineered, validated and compliance tested the AdM process to produce this complex large 3D printed metal structural component. It was manufactured using Wire Arc Direct Energy Deposition (DED) and each side is approximately 500mm in cube dimensions and weighs approximately 90kg each. Normally, AdM is known for complex geometries and lightweighting. However, for TAMPA Spiral 2 the requirement was to prove AdM could deliver large structural components (traditionally produced using casting, forging or fabrication) to specification.

There was no requirement for DMC to redesign to reduce weight or improve performance, in fact, it was critical that the existing performance criteria could be replicated with AdM. In this instance, the key advantages of using AdM were zero tooling (which is very expensive for low volume production) and reduced lead times (weeks instead of 6-9 months). The DMC AdM process design could also potentially support NP Aerospace to complete rapid development spiral activities for platforms in the future. With additional redesign, other benefits such as lightweighting could be achieved, which would reduce the total mass of the vehicle, allowing other key capabilities such as firepower, cargo capacity, mobility or protection to be increased.

David Wilson, Director of Engineering, NP Aerospace added: “As a key partner on critical UK MoD projects it is important we advance technology that has very real benefits in the field. By working with DMC on TAMPA Spiral 2 we are able to demonstrate significant platform availability improvements and reduced lead times and costs on part replacement. The part we have developed for Mastiff is safety critical and uses cutting edge direct energy deposition (DED) technology which also has the capability to repair and machine existing parts, so it would be possible to extend the life of existing components.”

Kieron Salter, Founder & CEO of DMC said, “At DMC we are very pleased to have been intimately involved with Project TAMPA from the outset to help UK MoD better understand the capabilities, potential and benefits that using AdM can bring to the defence supply chain and critically, what additional design and engineering expertise DMC can also deliver. In partnership with NP Aerospace, we have successfully proven the AdM engineering outputs required for both Spiral 1 and 2 which is fantastic news, but beyond that, I know the full benefits of what can be achieved are yet to be fully understood or realised across the defence sector.”

Mr. Steven DiGregorio Joins B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. as Senior International Business Development Manager

Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025

August 25, 2025 (Redmond, WA) – B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc., a Defense Technology Manufacturer specializing in advanced photonic solutions for military, law enforcement, consumer, and aerospace applications worldwide, is pleased to announce that Mr. Steven DiGregorio has joined the company as Senior International Business Development Manager.

Mr. DiGregorio is an accomplished sales professional with more than 18 years of experience in the defense, law enforcement, and tactical equipment industries. He has built a distinguished career in international government sales, forging lasting relationships with military and security organizations around the world. At B.E. Meyers & Co., he will focus his efforts on North America (Canada), Central America/Caribbean, South America, Eastern and Southeastern Asia, and Oceania/Pacific territories.

During his 13-year tenure at Leupold Optics, Steven played a critical role in expanding the company’s global footprint by delivering precision optical solutions to allied governments and specialized units.

Most recently, he served as Director of International Sales at HUXWRX Safety Co. for five years, where he spearheaded international growth initiatives and successfully advanced the adoption of innovative suppressor technologies across diverse markets.

Steven brings to B.E. Meyers & Co. a proven track record in navigating complex procurement processes, managing multi-million-dollar contracts, and aligning advanced technologies with mission requirements. His extensive experience and dedication to providing high-performance solutions to end users will further strengthen the company’s international presence and partnerships.

B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. is proud to welcome Mr. Steven DiGregorio to the team as they continue their mission to provide cutting-edge photonic solutions in support of those who serve.

Steven can be reached at internationalteam@bemeyers.com.

www.bemeyers.com

OA Defense Names Chris Moore as President

Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025

ROBBINS, NC – 2 SEP 2025 | OA Defense, a premium firearms manufacturer located in Robbins, NC – known for introducing the innovative OA 2311 platform in 2023 – is pleased to announce today that Chris Moore has been named as President.

Chris served in the U.S. Army for 29 years, retiring in 2022. He served in the 75th Ranger Regiment for 12 years before moving to Ft. Bragg, NC and serving in various positions within USASOC and JSOC.

Since leaving the Army, Chris has provided exercise support for various DoD units and started an electrical contracting company in North Carolina and Texas.

“Chris is the right leader for OA Defense as we transition into our new Robbins facility,” said co-founder and vice president, Dave Wollman. “His background in organizational leadership and development will help OA Defense grow its production capabilities, product line, sales partnerships, and brand recognition.”

“I am excited to join the OA Defense team,” said Chris Moore. “OAD has incredible intellectual property, agile product development, and a talented manufacturing team in Robbins that positions us for rapid growth. We are eager to showcase the full range of capabilities of our unique OA 2311 platform in the months ahead.”

Chris received a Bachelor’s Degree in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis from Norwich University.

Sierra Bullets Celebrates Corson Piper’s Recent PRC Match Performance and Climb in National Rankings

Sunday, August 31st, 2025

SEDALIA, Mo. – August 29, 2025 – Sierra Bullets congratulates sponsored shooter Corson Piper on his outstanding performance at the 2025 Impact-Foundation PRC Match, held August 23-24 in Wetumka, Oklahoma. Competing in a field of 185 shooters, Piper secured an impressive fourth-place finish overall, bringing his national ranking from 10th place to fifth place.

The 2025 Impact-Foundation PRC Match, hosted at the Foundation Training Range, featured 18 diverse and demanding stages designed to push the limits of precision rifle skills. Shooters were tested on their ability to adapt quickly, work against the elements and perform strategically across a wide range of stages.

Competing with Sierra Bullet’s 6mm 110 Gr HPBT/CN MatchKing, Piper delivered a standout performance and demonstrated exceptional focus and precision. After tying for third, he narrowly missed the podium in a shoot-off, finishing just two points behind the winner. Ultimately taking fourth place overall, Piper’s strong effort launched him to fifth place nationally. This climb in the national rankings marks a significant step forward in the season standings.

“Corson’s ability to perform with control and accuracy in a such a challenging match perfectly reflects Sierra Bullets’ mission to support the highest standards of precision shooting,” said Sierra Bullets’ Marketing and Product Manager Colby Adamek. “We are proud to stand behind him and excited to watch him continue to rise in the national rankings.” 

Sierra Bullets compete at the highest level with Sierra’s Match/Target product line. Winning takes dedication and determination, which is the heart and soul that goes into every Sierra bullet. To shoot the bullets used by top athletes around the world, shop Sierra Match/Target bullets. Sierra Bullets looks forward to continuing its support of these talented athletes and is excited to see what the future holds for them in upcoming competitions.

For more information on the latest new products and offerings from Sierra Bullets, visit www.sierrabullets.com.

SOFWERX – “Speed Dating” for Small Business & USSOCOM

Thursday, August 28th, 2025

Shake Hands, Take Names

The Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) Networking Event is now live! SOFWERX, in coordination with the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Office of Small Business Programs, will provide a networking opportunity for Small Businesses with capabilities that support National Security Interests and/or the USSOCOM mission to engage with Government Stakeholders, Prime Contractors, and Investors in the form of “Speed Dating.”

Small Businesses Request to Attend NLT 12 September 11:59 PM ET here: forms.sofwerx.org/osbp-networking-event-rta

Government, Prime Contractors (small or large), and Investors request to host a Networking table NLT 03 October 11:59 PM ET here: forms.sofwerx.org/osbp-tablehost-rta

Dave DuBay of Safariland Receives Spirit of National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) Award

Wednesday, August 27th, 2025

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. –Safariland®, a leading global provider of safety products designed for the public safety, military, professional and outdoor markets and one of Cadre Holdings, Inc.’s (NYSE: CDRE) (“Cadre”) key brands, is proud to announce its Vice President and General Manager of Defense Technology, Dave DuBay, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Spirit of NTOA Award from the National Tactical Officers Association. The NTOA is dedicated to improving public safety and domestic security through training, education and tactical excellence.

DuBay was presented with the award on August 25, 2025, at the Opening Ceremony of the NTOA annual Law Enforcement Operations Conference at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Oxon Hill, Maryland.

“Dave’s commitment ensures that NTOA instructors and participants have access to the latest and most reliable less-lethal munitions. His support has elevated NTOA’s training programs, enhanced operational readiness and strengthened safer approaches to conflict resolution. His dedication exemplifies the spirit of the NTOA: serving, protecting and innovating,” said Thor Eels, Executive Director of the National Tactical Officers Association.

Each year, the NTOA accepts nominations for the Spirit of NTOA Award, which recognizes individuals who exemplify the organization’s core values and mission: saving lives. Since 2015, DuBay has been with Safariland, where he oversees Defense Technology®, Monadnock Riot Gear® and the Defense Technology Training Academy®.

“I am truly humbled and honored to be receiving this award from the NTOA,” said DuBay. “I have proudly been a member, both personally and professionally, with the NTOA for over 25 years, and their continued commitment to both officer and subject safety, as well as promoting professional values within our industry has been paramount.”

The Spirit of NTOA Award reflects DuBay’s notable milestones over his 30-year career serving law enforcement, corrections and military communities. Widely regarded as a leading pioneer of the 40mm Less Lethal platform within the law enforcement community, he has delivered numerous presentations and demonstrations on the use and effects of less lethal weapons worldwide. Recognized as a Subject Matter Expert (SME), he has also been featured on the Discovery Channel, History Channel and National Geographic for his contributions to this field.

For more information about Safariland, visit Safariland.com.

PDW Unveils New 90,000 Sq Ft Manufacturing Facility to Accelerate Delivery of Tactical Drones

Wednesday, August 27th, 2025

PDW Unveils New 90,000 Sq Ft Manufacturing Facility to Accelerate Delivery of Tactical Drones

HUNTSVILLE, Ala., August 21, 2025: PDW (Performance Drone Works) has officially opened Drone Factory 01, its new 90,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Huntsville, Alabama. The massive facility exponentially increases PDW’s production capacity and reinforces the company’s role as a leading provider of battlefield-ready unmanned aircraft systems. Located in close proximity to the U.S. Army’s Redstone Arsenal, PDW’s new facility will house the team delivering drones designed, engineered and manufactured in America.

Purpose-built to support rapid iteration and full-rate production of the C100 multi-mission UAS and the AM-FPV attritable munition, the facility was built to meet and exceed the surging demand from U.S. and allied forces. Drone Factory 01(DF01) will bring the full production lifecycle of PDW’s products under one roof – from design and manufacturing to flight test and delivery. The new facility vastly increases the company’s build rates and output capacity, enabling the production of 350 C100s and 5,000 AM-FPVs per month.

“There is a national imperative and ethical duty to provide our warfighters and first responders with the most technologically advanced and operationally capable tools possible. This facility gives us the scale, speed, and control needed to deliver mission-critical systems ahead of the threat,” said Ryan Gury, PDW CEO and co-founder. “The ever-evolving battlefield and global threat landscape demand reliable multi-mission unmanned systems capable of rapid production at scale. Drone Factory 01 will allow us to produce these systems, deliver to operators in the field, and iterate as needed faster than ever before.”

Renowned for its modular architecture, PDW’s C100 enables interoperability with dozens of payloads to maximize reconnaissance, range, and impact. The company has received numerous contracts from the U.S. Army, including the Medium Range Reconnaissance (MRR) program and Transformation in Contact Initiative. C100 also provides mission-critical capabilities for public safety operations, closing the preparedness gap and giving front line forces an exponential edge. 

“Huntsville is more than our headquarters. It’s our edge. The innovation coming out of this city is reshaping the pace of defense manufacturing,” said PDW COO and President James Slider. “We’re not reacting to demand; we’re setting the pace. This facility proves what’s possible when the right people are in the right place with the right mission.”

Huntsville’s rich history in missile production and rocketry provides a strong foundation for PDW to build the future of unmanned technology. With the establishment of DF01, PDW is introducing over 500 new jobs in the greater Huntsville area and spurring an economic impact totaling over $81 million per year. The state-of-the-art facility features production at scale, materials management and robust quality engineering capabilities. It also features 99.9% pathogen reduction via Lit Thinking’s Visium Far-UVC devices, ensuring DF01 is the cleanest drone manufacturing facility in the world.

“PDW is an innovation engine for national defense and an economic catalyst for Huntsville,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “This expansion brings high-quality jobs, strengthens our advanced manufacturing sector, and reinforces Huntsville’s position as a strategic hub for defense and aerospace. We’re proud to have PDW growing here and contributing to our community’s future.”


PDW OPENS DRONE FACTORY 01 FACILITY IN HUNTSVILLE, ALA.

“PDW’s new drone factory is a powerful example of Alabama’s ability to support cutting-edge manufacturing at the highest level,” said Alabama Governor Kay Ivey. “This facility in Huntsville will not only deliver critical technology to our nation’s warfighters and first responders, but it will also bring over 500 high-quality jobs and millions in economic impact to the community. Alabama is proud to stand alongside PDW as they advance innovation, strengthen our national defense and create opportunity for our people.”

“Today is the day the least number of drones will exist in the world – it’s all growth from here,” continued Gury. “We’re confident that Drone Factory 01 will be a prominent contributor to the rapid production and adoption of small UAS on a global scale for both military and public safety operations. DF01 is just the beginning of PDW’s response to the national imperative to establish American drone dominance and we look forward to DF02 and beyond.”