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Barrett Begins Construction on New Era in Weapon Systems Manufacturing

Thursday, August 14th, 2025

Barrett Begins Construction on New Era in Weapon Systems Manufacturing

MURFREESBORO, TN – The NIOA Group has officially broken ground on its new Barrett Firearms facility, heralding a new era in weapon systems manufacturing for Tennessee.

The ceremony marking the beginning of construction of the Barrett Manufacturing & Technology Campus (BMTC) and NIOA North American Headquarters, was attended by a host of dignitaries including Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, Senator for Tennessee, the Honorable Marsha Blackburn, Tennessee Economic and Community Development (TNECD) Commissioner Stuart McWhorter, Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr and Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland, industry leaders, company executives and staff.

The BMTC will be the NIOA Group’s global center of excellence for firearms and advanced military weapons manufacturing and research capabilities. The ceremony was held today in conjunction with TNECD.

The $76.4 million project creates a 170-acre campus at 8808 Manchester Pike, not far from the company’s original headquarters where it has proudly operated for more than four decades. It marks the most significant investment in Barrett’s history and reflects the NIOA Group’s long-term commitment to advanced manufacturing and local jobs in Rutherford County.

Barrett has built a legendary reputation for its craftmanship and innovation in large caliber long-range superiority over 40 years and is a trusted supplier to US and allied militaries worldwide. This new facility described as “the factory of the future” will continue that story of innovation, research and development and precision military manufacturing to produce the next generation of advanced soldier fired weapon systems.

Stage 1 of the BMTC includes corporate headquarters, R&D capabilities, large scale state-of-the-art manufacturing and first floor office area spread over more than 250,000 square feet. The expansion will double the Barrett workforce over the next five years and enable the company to meet growing worldwide demand for its commercial and defense products.

Barrett CEO Bryan James said the new facility represented a bold step forward and a long-term commitment to the company’s heritage in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

“As a locally founded business, we’re proud to invest once again in the place that has shaped our success as a global leader serving both the commercial and military markets,” Mr. James said.

“This project not only underscores our commitment to the region, supporting hundreds of local jobs, but it’s a significant investment in our people, our customers and our capabilities.”

Mr. James thanked TNECD and the wider community for their strong support of the project, recognizing its potential to create skilled jobs for the region.

NIOA Group executive chairman and chairman of the Barrett board, Rob Nioa, said the new facility would serve as the NIOA Group’s global firearms and advanced military weapons manufacturing center of excellence.

“Tennessee is a firearms and ammunition industry powerhouse. As we look ahead to global growth, we are excited to be building the factory of the future right here,” Mr. Nioa said.

“This is a strategic investment that will give us the scale, technology and capacity to meet the evolving demands of our customers and defense partners worldwide.”

Construction of the BMTC is expected to be completed by February 2027 with operations to begin soon after.

Government officials, NIOA ownership, Barrett Executives and project developers at the BMTC Groundbreaking Ceremony. (Photo by TNECD)

barrett.net

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UNITY Tactical Hires Jose Rizo-Patron

Thursday, August 14th, 2025

Rizo-Patron Joins Executive Group as PresidentBROUSSARD, LA. (Aug. 14, 2025) – UNITY Tactical, a designer of components that integrate tactical systems and optimize the human factor, announced today the hire of Jose Rizo-Patron as president. In this role Rizo-Patron joins the executive group and is responsible for the overall strategic growth of the business, including product development, operations, business development, marketing communications and human resources.

Rizo-Patron joins UNITY following his role as CEO of Team Wendy®, where he spent 12 years growing the company into a manufacturer of full-scale helmet systems with customers in more than 60 countries across the military, first responder and civilian markets.

“UNITY has seen significant growth in recent years, and Jose brings a depth of experience to continue that upward trajectory,” said Trent Zimmer, founder and chief innovation officer of UNITY Tactical. “With his intimate understanding of the defense industry and the professional end user, and his extensive experience in strategic business development and operations, Jose will usher sustained growth and help to advance our already diverse portfolio of products.”

Rizo-Patron also sits on the board of several non-profits, including but not limited to OTOA (Ohio Tactical Officers Association), IFB Solutions and the Live Like Sam Foundation. Prior to his 12 years in defense manufacturing, he held diverse operational and executive leadership roles in companies and industries that moved him to Houston, San Francisco, Miami, Madrid, Buenos Aires, Cleveland and now Park City, Utah.

“When you think about the elements of a great business, UNITY has all the right factors in place,” Rizo-Patron said. “Tremendously talented and well-respected people coupled with product innovation and uncompromising quality. I’m honored to join their ranks and excited to help drivecontinued growth, following their legacy of excellence in an industry I’m intimate with and passionate about.”

“The addition of Jose’s leadership will add so much value, while allowing me to focus my time more fully on product development and innovation, which is at the very core of the brand. UNITY has a bright future, and I’m confident Jose’s direction will resonate with our people – employees, partners and customers,” Zimmer added.

unitytactical.com

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Kushin Named to BlackSea Technologies Board of Directors

Wednesday, August 13th, 2025

BALTIMORE, Md., August 12, 2025 – BlackSea Technologies (“BlackSea”), a leader in innovative maritime systems and mission solutions for the defense and intelligence communities, today announced the appointment of Mike Kushin to its Board of Directors.

Kushin brings more than 30 years of specialized experience delivering advanced capabilities to the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community. His expertise spans three critical mission areas: cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and space solutions.

“Mike is unique among industry leaders in his track record of building critical national security capabilities from early stage development to multi-billion dollar programs in the defense and intelligence markets,” said Chris Devine, CEO of BlackSea Technologies.

“His track record of delivering on programs of national consequence will help guide BlackSea as we support our customers, accelerate innovation, and manage our dedicated workforce.”

About BlackSea Technologies

BlackSea Technologies is a premier naval technology firm enabling new asymmetric strategies to ensure U.S. naval and military forces prevail in multi-dimensional conflicts for decades to come. The company delivers innovative maritime systems and mission solutions to America’s warfighters, from the ocean surface to the seabed. Headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, BlackSea produces the Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC) sUSV and other vessels at the historic Bethlehem-Fairfield Shipyard, where Liberty Ships were built during World War II.

For more information, visit www.BlackSeaTech.com

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CTOMS Announces the Acquisition of Performance Manufacturing and the Amarok Technical Gear Brand

Monday, August 11th, 2025

Edmonton, Alberta (August 2025)

CTOMS was founded in 2006 as a tactical medicine training company and evolved into a global leader in innovative micro-rope solutions for tactical and rescue operations. CTOMS is excited to announce the acquisition of Performance Manufacturing, an experienced manufacturing company more recently known for producing key rope control devices for CTOMS’ TRACE Systems and Firefly, the world’s smallest and lightest comprehensive capability micro-rope system and vertical egress/bail-out system, respectively. This acquisition also brings with it the Amarok Technical Gear brand, including complementary products like the Helo Lanyard™ for adjustable safety retention in a helicopter and the ciao Nut Tool for rock anchor cleaning, into CTOMS’ product line.

This strategic move enhances CTOMS’ ability to expand market reach, scale operations, and accelerate research and development. This will ensure greater product availability and faster innovation for customers worldwide. New product developments, tailored for the vertical and aviation environments requiring the lightest and most advanced equipment, are already underway.

Chris Kopp, CEO of CTOMS, stated:

“This acquisition brings new expertise and capabilities to CTOMS, streamlining our ability to innovate and develop cutting-edge products to continue to lead the way in lightweight, low-pack volume vertical access, egress, and rescue solutions.”

Randy Sawatsky, Founder of Performance Manufacturing, added:

“Joining forces with CTOMS unlocks growth opportunities and fuels research and development that would not have been possible otherwise, paving the way for exciting advancements.”

This acquisition positions CTOMS and Performance Manufacturing to redefine industry standards for micro-rope system use in vertical access and rescue equipment. For more information on CTOMS’ expanded product line, visit www.ctomsinc.com and www.ctomsropesystems.com.

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Heads Up – 2025 Swap Meat on Nov 8th

Saturday, August 9th, 2025

Often imitated never duplicated. The 2025 Swap Meat is happening November 8th.

Hosted by Spiritus Systems at their compound by the railroad tracks near Aberdeen, NC. More details to follow, but this is just a reminder to mark your calendar.

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Darley Named One of Crain’s 2025 Fast 50

Thursday, August 7th, 2025

ITASCA, IL – August 7, 2025 – Darley, a leading provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment, is proud to announce it has been named one of Crain’s 2025 Fast 50 by Crain’s Chicago Business.

This honor recognizes Darley as one of the 50 fastest-growing companies in the Chicago area based on year-over-year revenue growth.

“Darley is deeply honored to be recognized among Crain’s 2025 Fast 50,” said Paul Darley, CEO and President of Darley. “This recognition is a testament to the relentless innovation, dedication, and passion of our incredible team and reflects our commitment to growth with purpose and delivering exceptional service to those we serve.”

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

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ASA and Leading 2A Groups File Lawsuit Challenging the Constitutionality of the NFA

Thursday, August 7th, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, August 1st, the American Suppressor Association (ASA), National Rifle Association (NRA), Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC), Prime Protection STL Tactical Boutique, and two members of the organizations filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA). The complaint, Brown v. Bondi, was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri.

Until President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the NFA established a $200 tax and tax-enforcement registration regime on certain classes of firearms, including suppressors, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and NFA-defined “any other weapons.” With the elimination of this excise tax in the OBBB, the joint complaint alleges that the NFA registration regime is no longer justifiable as an exercise of Congress’s taxing power, nor any other Article I power.

The lawsuit also asserts that the NFA’s registration regime for suppressors and short-barreled rifles violates the Second Amendment. The Supreme Court has established that any regulation on arms-bearing conduct must be consistent with our nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation. The complaint argues there is no tradition that supports the NFA’s registration regime for protected arms such as suppressors and short-barreled rifles.

Click here to read the lawsuit.

“The National Firearms Act has been a weight around the neck of law-abiding gun owners for nearly a century,” said Knox Williams, President and Executive Director American Suppressor Association. “With the elimination of the excise tax on suppressors, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and AOWs through the One Big Beautiful Bill, our lawsuit challenges the NFA as an unconstitutional registry of now untaxed firearms. Common sense and the law are on our side, and we look forward to fighting on behalf of all Americans in Federal Court.”

“The National Firearms Act has infringed on law-abiding Americans’ right to keep and bear arms for nearly a century,” said John Commerford, Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action. “Congress took a major step by eliminating the NFA tax on suppressors and short-barreled firearms through the OBBB, and we’re proud to work alongside other leading Second Amendment organizations to finish the job.”

“The National Firearms Act’s registration scheme only exists to ensure that the tax on NFA firearms was paid,” said Adam Kraut, SAF’s Executive Director. “With Congress removing the tax on silencers, short-barreled firearms, and ‘any other weapons,’ the continued inclusion of these items in the NFA serves no purpose, except continuing to retain an impermissible hurdle to the exercise of one’s constitutional right to keep and bear arms. We look forward to relegating this unconstitutional law to the history books.”

“The National Firearms Act isn’t just unconstitutional, it’s a tyrannical abomination,” said Firearms Policy Coalition President Brandon Combs. “Not only does the NFA violate your Second Amendment rights, but Congress never had the lawful authority to pass it in the first place. That makes it a double abuse of power, violating both the right to keep and bear arms and the hard limits the Constitution places on the federal government. We’re proud to fight alongside our allies to end this corrupt, immoral law so peaceable Americans can exercise their rights when, where, and how they choose.”

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Motorola Solutions Completes Acquisition of Silvus Technologies Holding Inc

Wednesday, August 6th, 2025

CHICAGO – Aug. 6, 2025 – Motorola Solutions (NYSE: MSI) has completed its acquisition of Silvus Technologies Holdings Inc. (“Silvus”), a global leader in mission-critical mobile ad-hoc networks (MANET), based in Los Angeles, California.

Silvus’ MANET technology is designed to support frontline operations in the most challenging and contested environments, enabling highly secure data, video and voice communications without the need for fixed infrastructure. Their devices mesh together to establish large, scalable and self-healing networks that adapt to continuous mobility. These robust mobile networks connect people, devices and other nodes over distance and at scale, and seamlessly support bandwidth-intensive technologies like video, sensors and drones.

“Silvus’ advanced solutions for drone and unmanned systems are trusted in the world’s most demanding defense environments, and offer vital applications for border security and public safety,” said Greg Brown, chairman and CEO, Motorola Solutions. “Their capabilities are an excellent complement to our land mobile radio and video technologies, and we look forward to bringing them to more customers around the world.”

Adds mobile ad-hoc network leadership and extends company into a multi-billion-dollar, rapidly growing addressable market for drone and unmanned systems

Autonomous technologies, including drones, vehicles and robots, are increasingly deployed to safely provide a greater distance between soldiers and potential threats. Silvus’ technology allows human operators to securely control these systems with extremely low latency, helping to save lives while informing better tactical decisions.

Silvus’ wide range of customers spans defense agencies, autonomous systems manufacturers, the intelligence community, law enforcement and enterprises globally. Motorola Solutions plans to extend Silvus’ reach through its global scale and long-standing relationships with government and public safety customers around the world.

“Working with Babak and the Silvus team, we’ve seen firsthand how their expertise has created truly disruptive communications technology,” said Erik Fagan, Partner and Head of Industrial Technology, TJC. “They’ve built an exceptional company serving a critical need, and we are excited to watch their next successful chapter unfold with Motorola Solutions as a global leader in safety and security.”

“We have always respected Motorola Solutions’ leadership,” said Babak Daneshrad, PhD, CEO, Silvus Technologies. “At our core, both our companies are driven by innovation that makes the world safer. Bringing our advanced engineering teams together amplifies our ability to build more powerful solutions to serve more customers globally. I am incredibly optimistic about the future we have with Motorola Solutions.”

More information about the acquisition will be shared during Motorola Solutions’ quarterly conference call with financial analysts at 4 p.m. Central (5 p.m. Eastern) on Aug. 7. The conference call will be webcast live and a replay will be available at www.motorolasolutions.com/investors.

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