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DroneShield Announces Tom Branstetter as Head of U.S. Operations

Monday, November 24th, 2025

Long-time U.S. leader appointed to guide DroneShield’s next phase of growth and support rising demand across defense, federal, and public safety sectors
Warrenton, Viriginia –  November 20, 2025DroneShield, a global leader in advanced counter-drone technology, today announced that Tom Branstetter has been appointed to lead its U.S. operations, capitalizing on the company’s continued momentum and commitment to strengthening its U.S. footprint. 

Branstetter has served as DroneShield’s Vice President of Sales and Business Development, and co-led DroneShield’s U.S. business alongside former U.S. CEO Matt McCrann for more than six years. Branstetter played a central role in scaling the organization from a small operation to a nationally recognized leader in counter-drone and airspace awareness technologies. His leadership has helped drive the growth of DroneShield’s U.S. customer base across defense, public safety, federal, and critical infrastructure sectors, while advancing the company’s mission to deliver practical, operator-focused solutions to combat emerging drone threats.

Throughout his tenure, Tom has overseen major U.S. programs, supported deployments across government and defense customers, and helped build the strong operational foundation that DroneShield is known for today. As a veteran of the United States Special Operations Community, his deep understanding of the threat landscape, customer requirements, and the practical realities of deploying CUAS technology in the field makes him uniquely positioned to lead the next phase of U.S. expansion. 

Tom’s appointment ensures continuity for customers at a time when demand for CUAS and airspace security capabilities continues to accelerate. He remains focused on strengthening U.S. operations, supporting current and future programs, and delivering the high-quality service and reliability that DroneShield’s customers expect.

“I’m proud of what we’ve built over the past several years and honored to lead the U.S. team into this next chapter,”said Tom Branstetter. “Our mission remains the same: deliver trusted, scalable, and effective counter-drone technologies that protect people, assets, and critical missions.”

DroneShield, recently announced the formation of its U.S. Advisory Board and an expansion of its U.S. research and development capability. The company will continue its planned U.S. growth initiatives, including expanded customer support, enhanced manufacturing capability, and deeper engagement with defense and public safety partners nationwide.

O P Tactical Adds Carcajou to Offerings

Monday, November 24th, 2025

O P Tactical has added Canada’s Carcajou Tactical to their lineup of brands. Carcajou is well known for their high quality and innovation with products like the NVG Skull Harness.

Items are in stock and ready to ship.

www.optactical.com

2025 Microelectronics Commons Call for Projects

Monday, November 24th, 2025

The Microelectronics Commons program was established through the Strategic & Spectrum Missions Advanced Resilient Trusted Systems (S²MARTS) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) established by the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC), Crane Division and is managed by the National Security Technology Accelerator (NSTXL).

It is a network of regional technology Hubs acting on a shared mission: to expand the nation’s global leadership in microelectronics.

Technology Areas Supported by the Microelectronics Commons:

  • 5G/6G Technology
  • Artificial Intelligence Hardware
  • Commercial Leap Ahead Technologies
  • Electromagnetic Warfare
  • Secure Edge/IoT Computing
  • Quantum Technology

They have released their 2025 Call for Projects and are accepting white papers until 13 January 2026.

Learn more at nstxl.org/opportunity/mec-cfp-fy26.

Leitner-Wise AG Official Statement

Monday, November 24th, 2025

Leitner-Wise AG is a leading privately held global company in the field of technology, design and development, and renowned for its innovations and patented firearms and handheld defensive weapon technologies.

Effective November 21, 2025, Leitner-Wise AG has ended its business relationship and patent license agreement with VKTR LLC. The availability of Leitner-Wise patented components and weapons, including the MARKFIVE, is unaffected by this decision, and are available directly from Leitner-Wise LLC, at Leitner-Wise.com. This decision aligns with the Leitner-Wise AG commitment to maintain the highest standards of excellence and integrity in all business affairs and patent licensing arrangements. Leitner-Wise AG remains dedicated to providing superior products, innovations and technologies within the firearms industry. Our focus continues to be on enhancing firearms reliability and efficiency.

In 2026, Leitner-Wise AG will announce the development of several new products contributing to the next generation of handheld defensive weaponry. These upcoming products reflect our continued commitment to advancing technology and meeting the critical demands of firearms users. Leitner-Wise AG also looks forward to expanding business opportunities with new licensing partners in addition to expanding its operations and investing significantly in research and development. Leitner-Wise AG remains poised for continued success and leadership in the next generation of firearms and defensive technologies.

Media questions: centermassmarket@gmail.com

NIOA, Defence Sign Long-Term SMALL Arms Support Deal

Monday, November 24th, 2025

NIOA has signed a new long-term small arms support contract with the Australian Department of Defence.

The new support contract engages Australian-owned NIOA for the through-life support of select ADF in-service weapons as well as the next generation LAND300 Lethality Program systems until 2032.

NIOA was appointed by Defence in September 2022 as the prime contractor for Tranche 1 Stage 2 of LAND300 which includes new sniper systems, surveillance and target acquisition devices, pistols, shotguns and personal defence weapons for Australia’s soldiers, sailors and aviators.

NIOA General Manager – Weapons and Munitions Mick Ahern said: “NIOA’s team of expert Project Managers and Engineers have built a unique skill set in planning, conducting and delivering small arms test programs to meet LAND300 and wider Defence needs.

“This new contract marks an important milestone in the delivery of new capability and the continued support to existing small arms capabilities for the Australian warfighter while recognising the efforts of and confidence the Commonwealth has in NIOA’s Weapons and Munitions teams.”

European Consortium Launches iMUGS2 to Advance Interoperable Unmanned Ground Systems

Sunday, November 23rd, 2025

A European consortium uniting leading defence, research, and technology organisations from across the Union has launched the iMUGS2 project to develop the next generation of interoperable unmanned ground systems, following its successful proposal to the European Commission under its European Defence Fund (EDF) programme. The project is coordinated by Milrem Robotics.

Building on the achievements of the first iMUGS project, iMUGS2 aims to enhance Europe’s autonomy and robotics capabilities by developing a scalable, interoperable, and secure system-of-systems architecture for both unmanned and manned platforms. The project reinforces Europe’s technological sovereignty in key defence areas, including AI-driven autonomy, systems integration, communications, and command and control.

“With iMUGS2, Europe takes another significant step towards developing truly interoperable and scalable robotic forces that enhance the continent’s defence capabilities,” said Raul Rikk, Capability Development Director at Milrem Robotics. “The project promotes innovation and cooperation among European nations, ensuring that future AI-based autonomous systems can operate seamlessly together on the battlefield.”

iMUGS2 begins immediately with extensive conceptual, operational, and technical development across multiple domains. Partners will design and refine operational concepts, system architectures, and technological solutions that advance manned–unmanned teaming, autonomous functions, secure communications, and electronic protection.

In parallel, the project focuses on system integration, lifecycle efficiency, and interoperability, laying the groundwork for upcoming demonstrations and capability deployment across Europe’s defence landscape. These developments will ensure resilient, cost-effective, and future-ready unmanned systems.

About iMUGS2

With a total value of approximately €55 million and nearly €50 million in EDF funding, iMUGS2 pursues three strategic objectives: to develop and demonstrate combat-ready unmanned ground systems that support dismounted troops; to define operational concepts showing how unmanned ground and aerial systems can improve infantry battalion operations and cross-domain cooperation; and to advance modular, open architectures and lifecycle management frameworks that ensure interoperability across both legacy and future platforms.

About the Consortium:

The iMUGS2 Consortium comprises 29 partners from 15 European Union member states. The group includes large corporations, mid-sized businesses, SMEs, and research organisations. Each partner provides leading expertise in their respective fields, supporting a comprehensive vision throughout the project’s lifecycle. This diversity allows the consortium to tackle potential challenges and deliver strategic, effective solutions.

The iMUGS2 Consortium includes the following entities: AVL List, Bittium Wireless, Bureau Veritas, Czech Technical University in Prague, Cybernetica, Delft Dynamics, Diehl Defence, dotOcean, Elettronica, Escribano Mechanical and Engineering, FN Herstal, GMV, Huta Stalowa Wola, Insta Advance,  Integrated Systems Development, John Cockerill Defense, Kepla, KNDS France, KNDS Germany, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, Latvijas Mobilais Telefons, ?ukasiewicz – PIAP, Milrem Robotics (project coordinator),  Nortal (Talgen Cybersecurity), Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, the Royal Military Academy of Belgium, Safran Electronics & Defense, Svensk Konstruktionstjänst and TNO.

For more information, please visit imugs.eu.

National Safety Apparel Expands Defense & Government Leadership

Friday, November 21st, 2025

Promotes Markin Dornan to Executive Vice President and Appoints Tommy Young as Vice President of Defense

CLEVELAND, OH — November 21, 2025 — National Safety Apparel (NSA), a leader in mission-critical protective apparel, today announced the promotion of Markin Dornan to Executive Vice President of Defense & Government and the appointment of Tommy Young as Vice President of Defense. These leadership moves strengthen NSA’s focus on U.S. military and government customers and build on the company’s established presence through its DRIFIRE® Defense and Wild Things® brands.

DRIFIRE® Defense delivers high-performance, Berry-compliant FR apparel made in the U.S.A. and trusted by military personnel and tactical teams for its advanced fabric technology—combining flame resistance, moisture management, durability, and comfort engineered for the battlefield. Wild Things®, trusted since the early 2000s by elite military units, provides rugged, lightweight technical outerwear—also Berry compliant and U.S.-made—designed for the harshest environments and used today across all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.

As Executive Vice President of Defense & Government, Dornan leads the division’s strategic direction and cross-functional execution. Since joining NSA in 2009, he has expanded the company into new markets, built high-performance teams, and led numerous product innovations. Dornan also serves as Board Chair of the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) and recently earned the Credential of Leadership, Impact, and Management in Business (CLIMB) from Harvard Business School Online.

Tommy Young serves as Vice President of Defense at National Safety Apparel, where he leads strategy, government programs, and innovation across the company’s defense portfolio—including advanced protective systems for military personnel.

An Air Force fighter pilot, Young served 13 years on active duty flying the F-16, completing over 100 combat sorties. He continues to serve in the Air Force Reserve as Chief of Combat Operations, supporting Air Operations Centers (AOCs) worldwide that oversee real-time air mission planning and execution.

Prior to joining NSA, Young spent more than a decade in the military apparel and technical fabrics industry, partnering extensively with the Department of Defense, Defense Logistics Agency, and elite military units to develop advanced protective solutions for U.S. service members. His career blends proven combat leadership, global defense expertise, and commercial execution—bringing a mission-driven mindset to advancing the next generation of protective solutions for U.S. and allied forces.

“Markin brings strategic clarity and a proven record of execution; Tommy brings a service-first, results-driven approach to defense sales,” said Mike Enright, President of National Safety Apparel. “Together, they anchor our Defense & Government team and ensure our Berry-compliant, U.S.A.-made solutions reach the units that depend on them. We’re building the bench—with a Director of Marketing and Product role—to accelerate launches, strengthen partnerships, and keep mission needs at the center.”

“Tommy’s honorable service background and industry experience showcase his proven track record as a leader,” said Markin Dornan, EVP of Defense & Government. “His values align with NSA’s, and I’m confident he will help our team deliver meaningful contributions for the Warfighter and for NSA.”

“I’m honored to join such an outstanding organization and team at National Safety Apparel,” said Tommy Young, VP of Defense. “NSA’s DRIFIRE® Defense and Wild Things® brands have earned the trust of those who serve, and I’m excited to help drive continued growth and innovation while advancing our mission to protect and support the Warfighter.”

NSA continues to invest in leadership and capability growth, including an open Director of Marketing and Product position to expand brand, product marketing, and demand generation across Defense & Government.

Learn more at thinknsa.com.

 

Sawgrass Expands Operations with New State-of-the-Art Facility Featuring Latest Laser Cutting Technology

Tuesday, November 18th, 2025

Sawgrass Expands Operations with New State-of-the-Art Facility Featuring Latest Laser Cutting Technology

Saluda, NC — November 13, 2025 — Sawgrass, the leading laser cutting and precision fabrication provider with decades of industry experience, proudly announces the opening of its new, cutting-edge facility in Saluda, NC. This expansion marks a major milestone in the company’s continued growth and commitment to innovation, quality, and service across the nation.

Equipped with the latest generation of laser cutting technology, the new facility enhances Sawgrass’s ability to deliver exceptional precision, speed, and efficiency. This investment underscores the company’s dedication to supporting critical sectors including the Department of Defense (DOD), aerospace, law enforcement, automotive, and a wide range of industrial partners.

“Our new facility represents the future of advanced manufacturing,” said Matt Widincamp, President of Sawgrass. “By combining decades of expertise with the most advanced laser technology available, we’re setting new standards for precision, reliability, and turnaround times in every industry we serve.”

As one of the leading laser cutting providers in the United States, Sawgrass has built its reputation on precision craftsmanship, innovative processes, and unwavering customer commitment. The new location expands production capacity, streamlines operations, and strengthens the company’s ability to meet growing demand for high-performance components and assemblies.

About Sawgrass

Sawgrass has been a trusted leader in precision laser cutting, fabrication, and manufacturing services for over 30 years. Serving customers in defense, aerospace, automotive, law enforcement, and industrial markets, the company is known for its technical expertise, quality standards, and cutting-edge technology.

For more information, visit www.sawgrassproduction.com or contact:

Contact:

Mark Smith

Director of Business Development

Sawgrass

828-634-6955

mark@sawgrassproduction.com