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Burlington Celebrates Commissioning of State-of-the-Art Dyehouse at Raeford, NC Manufacturing Facility

Thursday, July 9th, 2026

Demonstrating Significant Investment in Domestic Manufacturing and Support of the U.S. Military

RAEFORD, N.C. — July 7, 2026 — Burlington Industries (“Burlington”), a leading U.S. manufacturer of advanced textile solutions, today celebrated the commissioning of its newly modernized dyehouse at its manufacturing operation in Raeford, NC, marking a significant investment in the future of domestic textile production and the continued support of the U.S. military.

The commissioning ceremony brought together company leaders, employees, community partners, and elected officials to recognize the completion of the project and the important role the Raeford operation continues to play in America’s textile manufacturing base.

“Our Dyehouse investment demonstrates our confidence in the Raeford operation, our employees, and the critical role this facility plays in supporting those who protect our freedoms, ” said Jeffrey P. Pritchett, Chief Executive Officer of Elevate Textiles, the parent company for Burlington.

“We are proud to continue a legacy of serving the military while strengthening American manufacturing capabilities right here in North Carolina. ”

The Raeford facility produces the specialized fabrics used in military dress uniforms and remains the only U.S. manufacturer producing these fabrics domestically. The Raeford operation currently supplies fabrics supporting dress uniform programs for the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, and Space Force.

“As we celebrate this investment, we also celebrate the employees whose dedication and expertise have made the Raeford operation an industry leader for more than 70 years,” said Guy Lucas, President of Burlington. “Their commitment to excellence has helped ensure that military personnel across all six branches of the U.S. Armed Forces receive the highest-quality uniform fabrics. This new state-of-the-art dyehouse is an investment in our future, but it is also an investment in our people, giving them the tools and technology needed to continue that tradition well into the future.”

A ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring company leaders and attending officials formally marked the commissioning of the new dyehouse. Burlington extends its sincere thanks to U.S. Representative Richard Hudson, NC Representative Garland Pierce, Raeford Mayor John K. McNeill III, Hoke County Board of Commissioners Chairman James Leach, and Hoke County Commissioner Mary Blue McCollum for their attendance and continuing support.

As Burlington looks to the future, the company remains committed to investing in its employees, supporting the communities in which it operates, and preserving critical domestic manufacturing capabilities that serve both national defense and the U.S. textile industry.

Posted in Industry, Materials, Press Release | No Comments »

Milrem Robotics and Hanwha Systems Explore Integration of Advanced Sensors and Effectors on Autonomous Ground Vehicles

Tuesday, July 7th, 2026

Milrem Robotics and Hanwha Systems signed a Memorandum of Understanding at Eurosatory 2026 to explore the integration of advanced sensing, electronic warfare, and weapon integration solutions onto autonomous ground vehicles, addressing the growing demand for unmanned force protection and area security capabilities.

The companies will assess opportunities to integrate Hanwha Systems’ payload technologies with Milrem Robotics’ autonomous ground vehicle platforms to support a wide range of mission requirements and customer needs.

Potential payloads under evaluation include electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems, radar, electronic warfare and jamming capabilities, laser systems, and weapon integration solutions.

“The combination of advanced sensors, electronic warfare systems and autonomous ground platforms creates new opportunities for protecting military forces and critical infrastructure. Through this cooperation with Milrem Robotics, we aim to explore integrated capabilities that address evolving operational requirements,” said Peter BAE, Senior Vice President, Hanwha Systems.

“Military forces are looking for versatile unmanned solutions that can rapidly adapt to evolving mission requirements,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics. “Combining Hanwha Systems’ advanced payload technologies with Milrem Robotics’ autonomous ground platforms creates opportunities to develop highly capable unmanned systems that enhance operational effectiveness while keeping personnel out of harm’s way.”

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release, Robotics | No Comments »

Mehler Systems Establishes “Mehler Systems Asia” to Drive Strategic Growth and Operational Excellence in the APAC Region

Sunday, July 5th, 2026

FULDA, GERMANY, 3 July 2026

Mehler Systems, a global leader in ballistic protection and tactical gear solutions, is pleased to announce the establishment of Mehler Systems Asia (MSA). This strategic expansion further strengthens the group’s global market position and reinforces its structural footprint in the highly dynamic and strategically important Asia-Pacific (APAC) growth region.

Accelerating Development Through Regional Integration

By operating in close proximity to leading suppliers and advanced manufacturing networks, Mehler Systems is creating a robust operational foundation designed to significantly accelerate development cycles. The new entity will leverage the deep expertise of highly qualified local professionals to streamline operations, foster regional innovation, and respond to global market demands with unprecedented agility.

“The establishment of Mehler Systems Asia marks a pivotal milestone in our global growth strategy,” said Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems. “To maintain our position as an industry leader, we must be exactly where our supply chains and future markets intersect. MSA allows us to deepen our relationships with key regional partners, optimize our sourcing structures, and uphold the uncompromising quality standards our customers rely on worldwide.”

A Commitment to Sustainable Sourcing and Uncompromising Compliance

In addition to further expanding its strategic sourcing structures, Mehler Systems Asia will maintain a dedicated focus on the sustainable development and qualification of regional suppliers. The establishment of MSA ensures rigorous compliance and meticulous specification management at a local level. Ultimately, this initiative will further strengthen the company’s established leadership in quality, reliability, and operational excellence across its entire product portfolio.

About Mehler Systems:

Mehler Systems Group is an international and global leader dedicated to exceptional ballistic protection and tactical-gear solutions for law enforcement, the military, and special forces.*

The Mehler Systems Group is home to the brands of Mehler Protection, Lindnerhof, and UF PRO. Mehler Protection is known for its body and platform armour solutions, UF PRO is an expert in top-tier tactical garment systems, while Lindnerhof stands out for its innovative carrying solutions and tactical equipment.

With a presence in over 40 countries, Mehler Systems has established itself as a leader, known for its innovation and dedication to raising the bar in the industry over the past four decades. For more information about Mehler Systems, please visit mehler-systems.com

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Closing Completed: Rheinmetall Acquires Majority Stake in DOK-ING – Strategic Acquisition in the Field of Unmanned and Autonomous Systems

Wednesday, July 1st, 2026

The Düsseldorf-based technology group Rheinmetall has successfully completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Croatia-based DOK-ING and is thus expanding its portfolio as planned through an acquisition in the field of unmanned vehicles. The company will operate under the name “Rheinmetall Unmanned Vehicles d.o.o.”. In March this year, Rheinmetall signed an agreement in Zagreb to acquire a majority stake in Croatian innovation hub specialized in the field of unmanned vehicles DOK-ING. Rheinmetall is acquiring 51 per cent of the company, while the company’s founder and previous sole owner, Vjekoslav Majeti?, will retain the 49 per cent. The strategic partners agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

Combining Rheinmetall’s expertise in tactical vehicles with DOK-ING’s capabilities in unmanned vehicles creates a strong base of competence with considerable future potential. These joint activities are based on DOK-ING’s newly developed Komodo, a modular heavy-duty hybrid platform with a payload capacity of more than 8.5 tonnes. Rheinmetall is contributing various functional modules and equipment kits, including systems for direct and indirect fire, mine clearing and laying operations, reconnaissance sensors and logistics. By joining forces, the two leading European suppliers aim to realise ambitious projects, set new standards and pave the way for unmanned ground systems to be ready for series production and deployment.

“We can now establish our competence centre in Croatia in the field of unmanned and autonomous vehicles for military purposes. With this new setup, we aim to achieve a strong market position in the segment of unmanned combat and armoured support vehicles. We see growth potential in this future market, and, at the same time, we are establishing a foothold in Croatia, an EU and NATO partner country and a highly attractive customer market”, Dr Björn Bernhard, CEO of Rheinmetall’s Vehicle Systems Europe division, reiterated upon receiving regulatory approval.

DOK-ING holds a strong market position in the field of land based unmanned mine clearance and operations in high-risk environments. Since its foundation, the company has delivered around 500 platforms to customers in over 40 countries. At present, DOK-ING’s mine-clearance solutions are proving to be highly effective in operation, particularly in the Ukraine.

Vjekoslav Majeti?, who founded DOK-ING in 1991, referred to his words when the agreement was signed in March: “This step ensures that DOK-ING’s development, engineering excellence and core competencies will remain in Croatia. By joining forces with Rheinmetall, we can expand our production capacities, accelerate the development of next-generation unmanned specialised systems and strengthen our long-term competitiveness. This will reinforce Croatia’s role within the European defence and technology landscape”.

DOK-ING and Rheinmetall plan to develop a variety of solutions for combat and combat support operations. This includes a project for an unmanned armed support system (known as ‘Wingman’) to be used with battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles for reconnaissance and fire support purposes. These systems will also be used alongside existing Rheinmetall products, such as the Panther KF51 Main Battle Tank, the Büffel/Buffalo recovery tank, and the Kodiak armoured engineer vehicle.

Rheinmetall AG is an integrated technology group, with its headquarters in Düsseldorf. Founded in 1889, it is a leading international systems house for the defence industry and operates within land, air, sea and space domains. A focus on sustainability is an integral part of Rheinmetall’s strategy. With around 44,000 employees at about 180 sites worldwide, the company has been listed on the DAX 40 since March 2023 and generated sales of €9.8 billion in the 2024 financial year.

DOK-ING is a technology-driven company specialised in the development and manufacture of advanced unmanned systems designed for operations in hazardous and high-risk environments. Its core portfolio includes remotely operated and progressively autonomous platforms supporting humanitarian and military demining, military engineering operations, CBRN response, and the protection of critical infrastructure. The company’s solutions are based on modular and scalable architectures, enabling rapid mission-specific configuration for mine clearance, IED disposal, route clearance, firefighting, and other complex operational requirements. With a strong commitment to safety, reliability, and operational excellence, DOK-ING delivers field-proven systems that enhance force protection and reduce human exposure to hazardous situations, serving armed forces, civil protection authorities, and specialised security operators worldwide.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release, Robotics | No Comments »

Rocket Lab to Acquire Iridium in Historic Deal, Creating A Fully Vertically Integrated Space Powerhouse Primed for Growth

Tuesday, June 30th, 2026

Unites Rocket Lab’s leading launch and satellite manufacturing capabilities with Iridium’s global network, spectrum, and experience to unlock critical space applications.

Adds material revenue scale and is significantly accretive to Rocket Lab’s cash flow generation and profitability.

Long Beach, California and McLean, Virginia. 29 June 2026 – Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab”), a global leader in launch and space systems and Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM) (“Iridium”), a leading provider of global voice, data, and positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) satellite services, today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Rocket Lab will acquire Iridium. Rocket Lab will acquire all the outstanding shares of Iridium common stock for $54 per share in a cash and stock transaction. This represents an enterprise value for Iridium of approximately $8.0 billion.

The acquisition will be one of the most transformative deals in the space industry, joining together two innovative American companies to play a leading role in the U.S. space economy. It merges Rocket Lab’s leading launch capabilities and satellite manufacturing with Iridium’s global satellite communications network, spectrum, and 500-plus strong partner ecosystem to create a competitive, vertically-integrated space company that designs, builds, launches, and operates its own constellations, delivering critical communications capability to millions of users worldwide.

The transaction will give Rocket Lab an immediate foothold in space-based applications, including both proprietary and standards-based satellite Internet of Things (IoT) and direct-to-device (D2D), PNT, and critical safety-of-life services, creating a formidable challenger in the global telecom market. Rather than simply continuing the Iridium network, Rocket Lab will build upon it to scale into untapped markets and pioneer new space-based services to the benefit of global customers.

Iridium’s globally harmonized L-band spectrum and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network provide a secure, resilient foundation for reliable satellite communications and PNT services across government, defense, aviation, maritime, and commercial markets. Supporting more than 2.55 million active subscribers worldwide, Iridium delivers highly reliable, weather-resilient connectivity and an alternative PNT architecture for applications where Global Positioning Systema (GPS) and other Global Navigation Satellite Systema (GNSS) are degraded or unavailable. Combining Rocket Lab’s launch, spacecraft manufacturing, and space systems expertise with Iridium’s global network and L-band spectrum will accelerate innovation, positioning the combined company to support the development and deployment of Iridium’s next-generation constellation. This includes direct-to-device (D2D/Iridium NTN DirectSM) services, which will grow into an important new capability for U.S. national security and emergency response, helping to ensure reliable, resilient communications when and where they are needed most, particularly where traditional networks are unavailable or compromised.

“This is a defining moment for the space industry and the start of a new era of strategic, accelerated growth for Rocket Lab and Iridium,” said Sir Peter Beck, founder and CEO of Rocket Lab. “Iridium has built the gold standard in secure, safety critical global satellite connectivity. It is relied upon by maritime fleets, the aviation industry, governments, and heavy industrial organizations who operate in the most remote off-the-grid locations. By marrying Iridium’s deep heritage, trusted infrastructure, and highly sought-after spectrum with Rocket Lab’s extensive and proven launch and manufacturing capabilities, we have the capability to unlock entirely new markets. We will go far beyond maintaining a legacy; we are going to build upon it to pioneer next-generation space applications and deliver sought-after capabilities to existing and new customers.”

“As the worlds of space and terrestrial communications continue to converge, more critical services will depend on space-based capabilities,” said Matt Desch, CEO, Iridium. “Success will come from those who can bring new innovations to space quickly and sustain them over time as efficiently as possible. We’re excited about being able to accelerate the next generation of IoT, aviation, maritime, PNT, and national security capabilities, and pursue new innovative applications as part of Rocket Lab – a fully integrated, end-to-end space company. That’s an incredible opportunity for our customers, partners, employees, and stockholders.”

Transaction Highlights:

Strengthens Rocket Lab’s Strategic Vertical Integration: Creates an end-to-end space company spanning launch, spacecraft, spectrum, and on-orbit communications services through a proprietary network. Expected to eliminate third-party launch costs for constellation deployment and replenishment and captures launch margin internally while guaranteeing orbital access as launch capacity tightens, ensuring continuity of service to customers.

Unlocks Entry to Space Applications Market: Provides Rocket Lab with immediate access to a proven constellation of LEO satellites and an established global communications customer base, realizing the company’s long-term strategic vision to expand beyond launch services and spacecraft manufacturing into a vertically-integrated space applications company with recurring revenue from satellite services.

Provides Access to Globally-Coordinated Spectrum: Adds globally-coordinated L-band spectrum that enables reliable user communications.

Unifies Two Trusted Government Partners: The transaction combines two deeply trusted, long-standing defense partners, combining their specialized strengths to deliver highly resilient, next-generation capabilities directly to the warfighter across denied, degraded, and disadvantaged environments.

Accelerates Growth and New Market Opportunities: Positions the combined entity to deliver next-generation satellite communications, resilient PNT, and emerging defense and commercial space services.

Diversifies Financial Profile with Recurring Cash Flow Streams: In 2025, Iridium delivered $871.7M revenue1, $495M OEBITDA[1] or 57% OEBITDA margin1, providing substantial recurring cash flow to fund growth.

Transaction Details

Under the terms of the transaction, Iridium stockholders will receive $27.00 in cash and a number of shares of Rocket Lab common stock calculated pursuant to an exchange ratio (subject to a collar) for each share of Iridium common stock outstanding at the closing. The collar is banded from $67.50 to $112.50. The transaction has a notional value of $54.00 per share of Iridium common stock, implying an enterprise value for Iridium of approximately $8.0 billion.

Complete details on the calculation of the exchange ratio will be in the transaction agreement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The transaction is expected to be completed in mid-2027, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including approval of Iridium stockholders and required regulatory approvals.

The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of Iridium and Rocket Lab. Moreover, each director of Iridium holding shares of Iridium common stock has entered into a voting agreement to support the transaction.

As part of the transaction, Rocket Lab has received commitments for a $3.6 billion 364-day senior secured bridge term loan facility from Deutsche Bank and Wells Fargo. Rocket Lab intends to fund the cash component of the transaction through a combination of cash from its balance sheet and other debt and equity financing sources.

Advisors

Deutsche Bank Securities is serving as lead financial advisor and Wells Fargo and PJT Partners as financial advisors, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C. is serving as legal counsel, Goodwin Procter LLP as financing counsel and DLA Piper LLP as regulatory counsel to Rocket Lab. Evercore is serving as exclusive financial advisor, Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is serving as legal counsel, Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP is serving as regulatory counsel, and Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher is serving as strategic communications advisor to Iridium.

Investor Presentation

An investor presentation discussing the transaction is hosted on Rocket Lab’s investor relations website at investors.rocketlabcorp.com.

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Surge Capacity: How Anduril Delivered a Month of Production in a Week

Monday, June 29th, 2026

In under a week in March 2026, Anduril delivered more than a full month’s of Pulsar production output off the shelf and directly into active operations for two U.S. government customers. These systems were immediately installed for fixed-site EW protection and aircraft survivability. While the surge was underway, Anduril was already doubling its EW production capacity — a line that once delivered 500 Pulsars per year now delivers 1000.

Anduril built Pulsar to interrogate a wider range of the electromagnetic spectrum autonomously, deploy software updates in hours rather than months, and network multiple EW systems across distributed operations to optimize coverage, locate points of interest, and deliver coordinated effects. That architecture is a force multiplier. Conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have validated the approach — drone-saturation tactics in both theaters have exposed how quickly EW countermeasures need to adapt, and how rapidly traditional systems fall behind when they cannot update in the field. Electronic warfare is increasingly key to either enabling their success on the offensive, or defeating them on the defensive. Since 2022, the Pulsar family has been deployed with operational users across multiple continents in fixed-site, mounted, and airborne configurations — all variants proven in combat and updated continuously based on user feedback.

Anduril built its manufacturing infrastructure with the assumption that demand would not announce itself in advance, and that when it arrived, achieving throughput in weeks, not quarters, would be necessary. A production line that can absorb a massive surge mid-scale-up while simultaneously doubling annual output is not the kind of capacity traditionally available within the defense industrial base.

Deterrence is ultimately a production problem. Anduril will solve it by focusing on the factory.

Posted in Industry, Manufacturing, Press Release | No Comments »

LBT Wants To Hear Your Gear Stories

Saturday, June 27th, 2026

We want to hear from our favorite people! If our gear has ever been an asset to you in your military service tell us about it. We’d love to tell your story!

Send it to marketing@lbtinc.com with subject line:

LBT STORY

Posted in Admin, Guest Post, Industry | No Comments »

Darley Welcomes Jim Johnson to Board of Directors

Thursday, June 25th, 2026

ITASCA, IL – June 25th, 2026 – Darley, a leading provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jim Johnson to its Board of Directors. Jim Johnson brings decades of leadership experience and deep industry expertise to support Darley’s continued growth and innovation.

Jim Johnson served as President of Pierce Manufacturing from 2010 to 2023. He also served as an Executive Vice President of Oshkosh Corporation and President of Oshkosh’s Fire & Emergency business segment, with responsibility for the Frontline, Maximetal, and Oshkosh Airport Products brands in addition to Pierce. Most recently, Jim served as President of Oshkosh’s Vocational business segment, with responsibility for refuse vehicles, airport ground support equipment, utility, and concrete truck brands in addition to his Fire & Emergency responsibilities before retiring in 2024. Jim began his career in Indianapolis as an attorney practicing commercial litigation and has served on Darley’s Fire Advisory Board since 2025.

“We are honored to welcome Jim Johnson to Darley’s Board of Directors,” said Paul Darley, Chairman and CEO of Darley. “I have worked with Jim for nearly 20 years and have long respected his leadership, integrity, and strategic perspective. He is a visionary leader with a strong focus on people and innovation. His operational experience, legal background, executive presence, and deep understanding of sound corporate governance make him an outstanding addition to our Board as we continue to build for the future.”

“It is a privilege to join the Board of Directors of W.S. Darley & Co. Darley’s mission supporting our nation’s warfighters and first responders globally is inspiring,” said Jim Johnson. “This 118-year-old family business is shepherded by an exceptional leadership team, and I am honored to serve the organization as they continue on their notable growth trajectory.”

Jim Johnson’s appointment reflects Darley’s ongoing commitment to building on the strength of its Board of Directors with experienced industry leaders who provide strategic guidance and oversight in support of the company’s long-term direction and continued success.

About Darley: You serve others. We serve you. Darley provides the highest quality pump, technology, and equipment solutions for first responders around the world. With origins in Midwest manufacturing, Darley offers a complete line of unmanned systems, immersive training technology, equipment and pumps. Learn more on our websites: www.darley.com and shop.darley.com.

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