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SB Tactical Wins Lawsuit Challenging ATF Rule on Pistol Stabilizing Braces

Sunday, August 18th, 2024

Bradenton, Fla. – SB Tactical®, in conjunction with the Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition, Inc. (FRAC), B&T USA, Rick Cicero, and a massive coalition of 25 states, is pleased to announce that the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled in our favor against the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

“This is a significant victory for all law-abiding Americans,” said Jeff Creamer, president and CEO of SB Tactical. “This unlawful rule was a gross overreach of regulatory authority by an agenda-driven agency. We are encouraged that the courts are holding the ATF accountable.”

In the ruling, the Court held that “the Final Rule, as a whole, is arbitrary and capricious because it allows the ATF to arrive at whatever conclusion it wishes without ‘adequately explain[ing] the standard on which its decision is based….’”

“This ruling denies ATF’s ability to issue vague and amorphous standards that allow it to reach any outcome it wants,” said Travis White, president and CEO of FRAC. “At one point, the 8th Circuit went so far as to state that the ATF’s arguments ‘make as much sense as shouldering a rifle by the barrel.’ This published federal appellate court ruling will serve to hold ATF accountable in future attempts by the agency to invent subjective factors that allow it to apply post hoc reasoning in classification letters and rules.”

In addition to thanking the other plaintiffs, the Firearms Policy Coalition, the Gun Owners of America, and the Second Amendment Foundation for their efforts, SB Tactical sincerely thanks the National Rifle Association for their unwavering support and assistance during this litigation.

For more information on the brand’s growing line of products for multiple firearms platforms, visit www.sb-tactical.com.

Strategic Acquisition in the USA: Rheinmetall Agrees Takeover of Vehicle Specialist Loc Performance

Thursday, August 15th, 2024

Acquisition expands and strengthens Rheinmetall’s position in North America and the competition for high-volume major orders in the USA

With a strategic acquisition in the USA, the Düsseldorf-based Rheinmetall Group is expanding its position in the world’s largest defense market and strengthening its core business in the field of land vehicles for military customers worldwide.

On 13 August 2024 Rheinmetall has signed an agreement to acquire all equity interests in Loc Performance Products, LLC, a renowned vehicle specialist based in Plymouth, Michigan.
The acquisition expands the Group’s business with the US military, increases its industrial base in the USA and creates further access for its technologies in North America. Furthermore, Rheinmetall is strengthening its production capacities in the USA with a view to targeted high-volume major orders for U.S. Army vehicle programs with a total potential of over USD 60 billion. Rheinmetall is one of two remaining participants in the current prototype phase of the XM30 program. This program serves to introduce a new generation of infantry fighting vehicles. The volume is estimated at around USD 45 billion for around 4,000 infantry fighting vehicles. Furthermore, Rheinmetall is participating in the CTT (Common Tactical Truck) program, which has a volume of around USD 16 billion for around 40,000 trucks. 

In addition, Rheinmetall expects the acquisition of Loc Performance to bring considerable benefits for both its American and for its global business. For example, an experienced workforce with a high level of technical expertise – including in the maintenance, repair and combat enhancement of military combat vehicles – will be integrated into Rheinmetall’s internal supply chains.

The purchase price agreed for Loc Performance, which will become due upon closing, is based on an enterprise value of USD 950 million. Closing of the transaction is subject to regulatory approvals.
With its skilled workforce of around 1,000 employes, Loc Performance generated significant and growing sales revenues. With its broad-based activities, the company will make a direct contribution to the Rheinmetall Group’s fast-growing US military vehicle business, which is managed by American Rheinmetall Vehicles based in Sterling Heights, MI.

The acquisition provides the Rheinmetall Group with key capabilities in the US and enables American Rheinmetall Vehicles to more effectively and comprehensively supply the US Department of Defense by expanding the company’s product portfolio and domestic manufacturing capabilities.

The investment follows Rheinmetall’s clear strategy for growth in the United States, which will be an important core business for the Group in the future. Loc Performance is already pursuing a sustainable business model with robust organic growth, has a highly skilled workforce and offers the Rheinmetall Group ample capacity reserves for the targeted orders in the USA.

Loc Performance Products, LLC was founded in 1971 in Plymouth, MI and is a diversified full-service provider for both military and civilian customers. In addition to its headquarters in Plymouth, MI, the company has further locations in Lansing, MI and Lapeer, MI as well as in St. Marys, OH.

The vehicle specialist is a high-performance full-line supplier of drivetrains, suspensions, track systems, rubber products, armour products and fabricated structures for vehicle platforms. The company is an established supplier to the US government and, in particular, OEM for most military ground vehicle track systems in the USA. In addition, the company’s products are used by major vehicle manufacturers in the agricultural, construction, mining, locomotive, transportation and oil and gas industries.  Loc Performance’s current manufacturing capabilities include modernised fabrication, machining and welding technologies capable of meeting the critical manufacturing requirements of the US Army’s XM30 and CTT programs. An available manufacturing footprint of 1.7 million square feet provides significant capacity for future expansion.

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “We are making this investment because we have a clear strategy for growth and the United States will be an important core market for us in the coming years. The acquisition of Loc Performance proves that we are consistently focussing on success in the USA and want to expand our share of the large market volume. Everything speaks in favour of this acquisition: Loc Performance is already pursuing a sustainable business model there with robust organic growth, has a highly qualified workforce and offers us significant capacity reserves for the orders we are targeting in the USA.”

Matthew Warnick, CEO of American Rheinmetall Vehicles: “In the USA, we have a promising position in two major military projects, both in the XM30 infantry fighting vehicle program and in the CTT project. The acquisition of Loc Performance gives us the manufacturing readiness that will enable us to realise the major orders we are aiming for. This puts us in a position to realise 100% local value creation in the USA.”

Jason Atkinson, CEO of Loc Performance: “The significant engineering capabilities of American Rheinmetall Vehicles and the next-generation technologies that are part of the exceptional global Rheinmetall Group are a great fit with Loc Performance’s 53 years of manufacturing experience in the United States. I am excited about this combination, which represents a powerful end-to-end solution that will bring even better products to our customers and even more growth to our combined company.”

American Rheinmetall Vehicles provides US customers with next-generation tracked and wheeled combat vehicles and tactical wheeled vehicle platforms. American Rheinmetall Vehicles supports the U.S. Army in two major modernisation programs, the XM30 Combat Vehicle program, and the CTT program.

The acquisition of Loc Performance will be of great benefit to American Rheinmetall Vehicles as the company further expands and strengthens its presence in the United States. With the purchase, American Rheinmetall Vehicles acquires 1.7 million square feet of modern, efficient manufacturing space with significant capacity for future expansion.

American Rheinmetall is supporting the Department of Defense in key modernisation programs of national significance that directly improve the effectiveness, mobility and situational awareness of soldiers on the battlefield. This includes developing and delivering next-generation products and capabilities, including advanced direct and long-range precision fire weapons, innovative tracked and wheeled combat vehicle platforms, and intelligent mission systems.

The American Rheinmetall family includes American Rheinmetall Vehicles in Sterling Heights (MI) and Troy (MI), American Rheinmetall Munitions in Stafford (VA), Windham (ME) and Camden (AR), American Rheinmetall Systems in Biddeford (ME) and the parent company American Rheinmetall Defense in Reston (VA).

www.rheinmetall-us.com

Pincroft Invests £1+ in New Military Printing Tech

Thursday, August 15th, 2024

£1m+ investment to dramatically boost Pincroft’s camouflage printing capacity

(Adlington, United Kingdom): Global leader in military fabric printing, dyeing and finishing, Pincroft, has announced an investment of over £1m for the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment for its factory in the United Kingdom that is set to increase the textile manufacturer’s camouflage printing capacity to over 8 million metres a year.

The new equipment boasts the latest technology in rotary screen printing, including a magnet combined system for uniform application across the width, digital synchronisation for better accuracy, short setup times, automatic repeat settings, design memory, and faster reproduction of re-orders.

It also includes a pre-bulk strike-off machine, which allows for preparation prior to the printing production process. This facilitates the development and verification of paste viscosities, colour concentration and magnet power adjustment.

Pincroft’s new rotary screen printer will allow the manufacturer to process a complex range of technical textiles, from lightweight fabrics for waterproof applications, to heavy weights for load carriage and equipment handling.

This new investment is Pincroft’s strategic move to continue its growth in the military fabrics segment and continue offering customers the best quality in camouflage textile printing.

Mike Collins, Pincroft’s Managing Director, says: “This investment is hugely important for our business. We expect delivery of the machine at the end of the year and aim to be ready for production at the start of 2025.”

European Defence Strenghens By MKU’s Expanding Presence

Sunday, August 11th, 2024

MKU, a leading global defence and homeland security company that specialises in developing and manufacturing ballistic protection solutions and optronics solutions for defence and law enforcement agencies, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to empowering defence and law enforcement agencies across Europe.

The company has established a strong presence in Europe over the past four decades, fostering significant partnerships and collaborations. The company has supplied advanced ballistic solutions to various European forces, including 25,000 ballistic plates to Spain’s border police, over 1,000 body armours to the Estonian police force, NIJ 0108.01 Level III and NIJ Level III/IV ballistic shields to police forces in Norway and Sweden respectively and platform armouring solutions that shielded numerous German army containers.

MKU Limited’s strategic collaborations, customer-centric approach, and cutting-edge solutions have positioned the company at the forefront of empowering European defence and law enforcement agencies. By addressing the specific requirements of local forces and collaborating closely with military personnel, the company contributes to strengthening Europe’s security infrastructure and ensures the safety and protection of frontline personnel. MKU also has a cooperation and development agreement with French Major Thales to co-develop and market optronic devices and F90 close quarter battle (CQB) rifles internationally. The alliance envisages manufacturing of optronics equipment, including weapon sights, night vision goggles, hand-held thermal imagers and thermal infrared sensor engine for soldier systems, and other image intensification and thermal imaging systems for soldiers and platforms.

“WE HAVE BEEN BUILDING AND NURTURING STRONG RELATIONSHIPS IN EUROPE OVER THE LAST FOUR DECADES,

stated Mr. Neeraj Gupta, Managing Director at MKU. “Europe is an early adopter of new technology, and the European countries are constantly modernising their forces. We remain dedicated to providing innovative solutions to them and building a safer future.” With an unwavering commitment to research and development, rigorous testing processes, and state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities, MKU delivers superior-quality solutions that meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.

MKU’s dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has positioned them as a trusted partner for European defence and law enforcement agencies. Through their continuous efforts, the company is revolutionising the security landscape and ensuring a safer future for European forces and the communities they serve.

Looking ahead, MKU is committed to further strengthening its footprint in Europe through strategic investments in research and development, collaborations with leading European defence companies, and the expansion of its product portfolio. The company is actively exploring opportunities to co-develop next-generation ballistic and optronic solutions that address the evolving needs of European defence and law enforcement agencies.

www.mku.com

Rheinmetall to Acquire Majority Stake in Resonant Holdings of South Africa

Thursday, August 8th, 2024

Rheinmetall is to expand its plant engineering portfolio by acquiring a majority stake in the business of Resonant Holdings (Pty) Ltd, a leading South African specialist in plant engineering for chemical applications. An agreement to this effect has now been signed. Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH will hold 51% of the shares in a newly formed joint venture Rheinmetall Resonant South Africa, and the current Resonant Holding shareholders will possess the remaining 49%. The company to be founded expects an annual sales potential of more than EUR 100 million.

The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price. The transaction and the final company name are still subject to customary regulatory approvals.

The planned acquisition is Rheinmetall’s response to the growing global demand in the ammunition sector and the resulting customer requirements for the construction of corresponding production facilities. Rheinmetall is therefore significantly expanding its existing capabilities in ammunition production by vertically integrating further competences, thus positioning itself even more robustly for the independent planning, construction and operation of production facilities for the manufacture of chemical products such as propellant powder and explosives.

Resonant Holdings employs around 150 people and brings proven experience and outstanding expertise in designing and constructing specialised plants. This includes production facilities for chemical and explosives products. Resonant’s leading expertise complements Rheinmetall’s plant engineering capabilities, particularly in the fields of chemical, energetic, and explosives technology, industrialization, and manufacturing. This expands Rheinmetall’s ability to offer a comprehensive range of services, including the design, construction and commissioning of state-of-the-art plants tailored to the specific needs of our global partners.

At the same time, the partnership offers Resonant a strong global reach, industry expansion and access to new markets.  The combined expertise of both entities will drive innovation and efficiency, delivering unparalleled value to customers. Rheinmetall aims to preserve the company’s existing technology and workforce.

The planned acquisition of Resonant Holdings underscores Rheinmetall’s dedication to expanding its technological capabilities and delivering state-of-the-art solutions to its partners. This strategic acquisition of the controlling stake ensures that Rheinmetall remains at the forefront of innovation in the engineering and defence industries, providing unparalleled expertise and comprehensive solutions.

Kopin Partners with Wilcox Industries for Modular Dismounted Soldier System

Thursday, August 8th, 2024

Provides Integrated Day and Night Heads up Display Optical Solutions

WESTBOROUGH, Mass.–Kopin Corporation (NASDAQ: KOPN), a trailblazer in application-specific optical solutions and high-performance micro-displays for defense, enterprise, consumer, and medical products, is thrilled to announce its collaboration with Wilcox Industries on the cutting-edge FUSION CLAW™ head borne information system.

The FUSION CLAW is set to revolutionize the battlefield with its advanced modular technology platform, seamlessly integrating night vision, communications equipment, Identification Friend-Foe (IFF), AI-informed power prioritization, multi-spectral forward illumination, mission recording, and Day/Night Heads-Up Display (HUD) into a single, lightweight package. The system’s design ethos—modularity, scalability, adaptability, and power management—ensures that operators can remain laser-focused on their missions. Kopin’s pivotal role involves the development and production of look-through mixed reality accessories, which we believe significantly enhance warfighter situational awareness with state-of-the-art Day and Night HUDs.

These new accessories will work with legacy fielded systems and as the demand for sophisticated Day and Night Visual Augmentation Solutions (VAS) skyrockets with over 70,000 systems already fielded and 100 commercial licensees integrating with the Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK)(1) , the FUSION CLAW system stands at the forefront of technological innovation. Warfighters can now access a wide array of information directly through a seamless heads-up display, eliminating the need for the user to look down at a chest-mounted End User Device (EUD).

“ATAK system users and future AR initiatives need the capability to view critical information in all ambient lighting conditions, from intense daylight to total darkness,” said Nic Peterson, Kopin’s Director of Business Development for Warfighter Vision. “We believe our power-efficient, high-performance microdisplays combined with innovative near-eye optics enable Kopin’s HUD products (designed and built in USA) to meet the complete operational needs of the warfighter and augments their current ATAK system, today. We are delighted to expand our customer base with esteemed partners like Wilcox, renowned for their outstanding contributions to the armed services.”

We believe with the FUSION CLAW system, Kopin and Wilcox Industries are poised to deliver unmatched situational awareness and mission success, ushering in a new era of battlefield innovation and significant revenue potential. James Teetzel, CEO of Wilcox Industries, stated, “The teaming of Kopin & Wilcox presents a unique partnership that is well poised to meet the development and production demands of the customer. The proliferation of this requirement for a headborne modular technology platform, with integrated VAS components, has amplified the necessity for such a business partnership, and we could not be more excited.” For this partnership, Wilcox brings a myriad of technical expertise related to the development of headborne mounting solutions and electro-optics, in addition to years of experience facilitating urgent and unique contract requirements for the US DoD and broader international defense market. As an industry leader in this space, Kopin brings vast industry knowledge and experience with micro-displays and optical solutions. Together, we believe the Wilcox & Kopin team will not only be able to meet customer requirements but will also facilitate increased technological development. James Teetzel further stated, “Wilcox has always listened to our customers, as it is their collective guidance that has allowed Wilcox to design, develop, and offer industry leading technology for over 40 years. The forming of this partnership is no different, as Wilcox looks to work jointly with Kopin in providing the best-in-class solutions in line with specific end-user requirements. We are honored and privileged to work closely with Kopin to jointly develop, produce, and provide meaningful equipment in support of the Modular Dismount Soldier System requirements.”

ONE9 Welcomes Davin Michaelis as Senior Technical & Tactical Advisor

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

If “Innovation is a Special Operation”, ONE9’s team just got a whole lot stronger.
ONE9 is thrilled to announce the appointment of Davin Michaelis as Senior Technical and Tactical Advisor. Michaelis, a recently retired US Special Mission Unit (SMU) Sergeant Major, brings unparalleled expertise and experience to the team.

Throughout Michaelis’ twenty-one deployments, he distinguished himself at the highest level of strategic military operations including leadership roles in three presidentially approved operations. Known for his exceptional leadership, strategic acumen, and operational excellence he has demonstrated his prowess in some of the most challenging environments and operations globally. His deep and extensive experience in national security, intelligence, and special operations sets him apart as a leader of the highest pedigree.

In his new role at ONE9, Michaelis will be based in Warsaw, Poland. He will provide a unique and invaluable lens to target, validate, and provide deep tactical and technical diligence to help guide ONE9’s investment and innovation priorities. His strategic vision and tactical expertise will be instrumental in advancing ONE9’s initiatives and ensuring the highest standards of performance and innovation.

“I’ve been tracking ONE9 for a while now, and am proud to join a firm who contributes as much to national security in their private sector capability as we did when we were in uniform,” Michalis said.

“Davin is no joke, and I am deeply humbled to have gained the trust of a leader with Davin’s character, curiosity and mission focus,” said Glenn Cowan, Founder and Managing Partner of ONE9. “As ONE9 expands our presence globally, it is critical to align with our most important allies”. Cowan went on to say, “At ONE9 we equate venture capital to a special operations mission and since our former Units fought together, it’s a natural fit to expand our shared vision and culture to build one of the most impactful investment and innovation firms focused on national security.” His unparalleled experience and leadership will be a tremendous asset as we continue to drive forward our mission and expand our capabilities.”

MIL-PRO and Brawer Bros. Group of Companies Form MIL-PRO Operating Group LLC

Friday, August 2nd, 2024

Leading Supplier of Advanced Body Armor, First Aid Products, and Outdoor Gear Joins Forces with Industry Veteran

HAWTHORNE, NJ, USA, August 1, 2024 – MIL-PRO®, a global designer, manufacturer, and supplier of OEM and MIL-PRO® branded advanced body armor platforms, mission-critical medical products, and premier hunting/outdoor gear, proudly announces its strategic alliance with the Brawer Bros. Group of Companies. This collaboration marks the formation of MIL-PRO® Operating Group LLC, effective August 1, 2024.

Strategic Acquisition & Leadership

Leading the newly formed entity, Skip Smith will assume the role of CEO, while Rusty Burton will take on the position of President and Chief Operating Officer. With over 40 years of experience in the Defense and Law Enforcement industry, Mr. Burton will focus on the continued success and expansion of the MIL-PRO® brand. This partnership combines Burton’s expertise with Brawer Bros.’ high-capacity manufacturing capabilities, financial strength, sourcing proficiency, and exceptional customer service.

Expanding Vertical Integration

MIL-PRO® Operating Group LLC will benefit from Brawer Bros.’ extensive manufacturing resources, including elastic manufacturing, knitting, dyeing, finishing, and warehousing/fulfillment. The integration includes access to 180,000 square feet dedicated to high-quality, high-capacity cut-and-sew product manufacturing, a facility with over 25 years of operational excellence. This alliance will enhance MIL-PRO®’s manufacturing capacity, ensuring rapid and reliable delivery of innovative products. Additionally, MIL-PRO® will leverage expansive warehousing and distribution centers in North Carolina and Pennsylvania to better serve its customers.

About Brawer Bros. Inc.

Since 1946, Brawer and its affiliated companies have been a cornerstone in the textile industry, supplying synthetic yarns to a diverse range of customers and applications. The Brawer group delivers value through a variety of product offerings, substantial inventory positions, superior customer service, and multiple large manufacturing facilities and distribution centers.

For more information, contact Rusty Burton at r.burton@mil-pro.com.