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Chemring Appoints Former Meggitt CEO as Chairman-Designate

Tuesday, June 25th, 2024

Chemring is pleased to announce the appointment of Tony Wood as an independent non-executive director and Chairman-designate. He joins the Board with effect from 1 October 2024 and will succeed Carl-Peter Forster as Chairman of the Board on 1 December 2024, following Carl-Peter’s retirement on 30 November 2024.

Carl-Peter joined the Board of Chemring on 1 May 2016 and was appointed Chairman on 1 July 2016. Since then he has successfully led the Group through a period of significant transformation as we have built a stronger, higher-quality and more resilient business. The investments made in both culture and infrastructure position the Group well to capitalise on its many opportunities.

Tony is a member of the Board of Directors of Airbus SE, the CAC 40 aerospace and defence firm, and National Grid plc, an energy company operating in the UK and the US. From 2018-2022 he was Chief Executive of FTSE 100 Meggitt plc, where he led the operational and cultural transformation of the company. He brings to the Board significant engineering and sector experience having also been a Non-Executive Director and former President of ADS Group Limited, the trade association for the Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space sectors in the UK, from 2020-2023. Prior to joining Meggitt he spent 15 years at Rolls-Royce plc, latterly serving as President of Aerospace from 2013-2016.

Tony holds a degree in Engineering from the Open University in the UK and a Master of Business Administration from INSEAD in France. He is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and a Fellow of the Association for Project Management.

Michael Ord, Chief Executive of Chemring, commented:

“On behalf of the Board I would like to thank Carl-Peter for his immeasurable guidance and commitment to Chemring over the past eight and a half years. He has led the Board through a period of significant transformation, and he leaves the Group in an excellent position to continue this success.

“We are delighted that Tony has agreed to succeed Carl-Peter as Chairman of Chemring. He joins at an extremely exciting point in Chemring’s development and his knowledge and understanding of the defence and aerospace sector will be invaluable. Tony is an extremely experienced individual with a strong business track record, and the Board believes that he is the right person to oversee the next stage of the Group’s development.”

Carl-Peter Forster, Chairman, said:

“I have greatly enjoyed my eight and a half years as Chairman of Chemring, during which time the Group successfully focused its operations within its core niche markets, re-entered the FTSE 250, steadily improved profitability and now has the ambition to achieve annual revenues of c.£1billion by 2030.

“The transformation of the Group could only have been achieved with the dedication and hard work of its management and employees. I am grateful for the many years of successfully working with the team at Chemring and I wish them all well in the future.”

Tony Wood added:

“I am very much looking forward to joining the Board of Chemring succeeding Carl-Peter as Chairman, and to working with the Board, Michael Ord and the leadership team to support the next exciting stage in the Company’s development.”

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Australia Deputy Prime Minister Visits DroneShield Facility

Monday, June 24th, 2024

DroneShield Ltd (ASX:DRO) (DroneShield or the Company) is pleased to advise that Hon Richard Marles, Deputy Prime Minister of Australia and Minister for Defence, has visited the new DroneShield Sydney facility in mid June.

DroneShield was included into the Australian Government’s Ukraine aid package in late 2023, contributing its rapidly deployable C-UAS sensors and effectors, and was approximately half of the total package amount at the time ($10m out of the $20m total). Its products are continued to be used on the frontlines in Ukraine to stop Russian drones, as well as a substantive number of other locations globally.

The Company has moved into the new and substantially enlarged premises earlier this year, with the facility currently hosting approximately 130 staff, including over 100 engineers, as well as operations, business and corporate teams. With a larger own manufacturing floor combined with growing outsourced manufacturing capacity, DroneShield has a current manufacturing capacity of approximately $400m per annum. All of DroneShield’s R&D and manufacturing is done in Australia.

Hon Richard Marles receiving a brief at the DroneShield facility

Hon Richard Marles, Deputy Prime Minister of Australia and Minister for Defence, commented: “DroneShield is an example of an Australian high-tech success story, with world-class cutting edge local R&D and manufacturing, and growing exports around the world, with focus on the US.”

Hon Richard Marles inside the DroneShield anechoic test chamber

Oleg Vornik, DroneShield CEO, commented: “Over the last 10 years, DroneShield has become a global leader in AI-powered C-UAS solutions. Critically in the current geopolitical environment, it is also a significant sovereign manufacturer. We are pleased to have had an opportunity to brief the Deputy Prime Minister on our operations, and look forward continuing to support Australia and its allies with our advanced technologies.”

Hon Richard Marles receiving product brief in the display area from DroneShield CTO Angus Bean

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SIG SAUER To Appeal Verdict

Monday, June 24th, 2024

NEWINGTON, N.H., (June 21, 2024) – SIG SAUER strongly disagrees with the verdict in the case of Lang v. Sig Sauer, Inc. and will be appealing the decision on multiple grounds.

SIG SAUER does not believe that Plaintiff has met his burden to prove the P320 model pistolwas designed defectively or negligently as claimed. There are no facts on the record to support that Mr. Lang’s discharge claim was the result of anything other than his own negligent handling causing him to pull the trigger on the P320 pistol. Plaintiff and both his experts testified that they do not know what pulled the trigger or how the trigger was pulled, and they did not attempt to conduct any testing to confirm how the trigger could have been pulled, other than by Mr. Lang’s own finger.

In this case, the plaintiff, Mr. Lang, initially admitted to the police that he accidentally discharged his gun while pulling it out of the holster, then later changed his story, stating that the firearm discharged without a trigger pull. However, the Plaintiff’s story notably changed again, after hiring trial experts who agreed that the SIG SAUER P320 could not discharge without the trigger being pulled.

The design of the SIG SAUER P320 model pistol is truly innovative and safe, with numerous related patents, including several relating to safetymechanisms. It is among the most tested, proven, and successful handguns in recent history, with versions being selected as the official sidearm of the U.S., Canadian, Australian, and Danish militaries, among many other military and law enforcement organizations worldwide. SIG SAUER is extremely proud of our long history of producing high-quality firearms and our unwavering dedication to safety.

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Press Release | 6 Comments »

Silencer Central Sponsors DSC Foundation Annual Gala Dinner and Fundraiser

Sunday, June 23rd, 2024

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – June 21, 2024 – Silencer Central, America’s largest silencer dealer, is proud to announce its role as the presenting sponsor for the upcoming Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Foundation annual Gala dinner and fundraiser. The event will take place on June 22, 2024, at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel, offering a night of celebration and support for DSC’s mission to ensure the conservation of wildlife.

Presented by Silencer Central, the event aims to reaffirm the shared passion and commitment to conservation while providing a platform to share captivating stories from member hunts. Attendees will have the opportunity to support the remarkable work of the DSC Foundation and its dedication to preserving wildlife and habitats for future generations.

The evening consists of two distinguished guest speakers: Robbie Kroger, Executive Director of Blood Origins, and Hans “Scruff” Vermaak, a renowned professional hunter. Their expertise and experiences will highlight the importance of responsible hunting and its impact on conservation efforts.

“We’re honored to once again stand alongside an amazing group of hunters and conservationists at this year’s DSCF Gala,” said Brandon Maddox, CEO of Silencer Central. “As the presenting sponsor, we hope to show attendees our continued support for hunting and conservation and how Silencer Central works to fulfill their initiative.”

The event will also feature live and silent auctions, offering attendees the chance to bid on exclusive items and experiences. Additionally, a variety of raffle packages will be available.

Beyond financial support, Silencer Central recognizes the significance of educating communities about the benefits of suppressors. By providing suppressors for fundraising purposes, Silencer Central aims to dispel misconceptions and foster a better understanding of the role suppressors play in enhancing firearm safety and protecting hunters and shooting enthusiasts.

The DSC Foundation annual Gala promises to be an unforgettable evening, uniting individuals who share a deep appreciation for wildlife conservation. Silencer Central is proud to continue supporting conservation and hunting safety.

With a legacy spanning over 18 years, Silencer Central emerged as a pioneer, offering customers a streamlined process for legally obtaining firearm sound suppressors. Today, this industry-leading company plays a vital role in the firearms industry, tirelessly advocating for silencer owners across the nation.

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True Velocity, FN America Announce Global Manufacturing Partnership On Lightweight Medium Machine Gun

Saturday, June 22nd, 2024

FN AMERICA’S MACHINE GUN MANUFACTURING PROWESS BOLSTERS TRUE VELOCITY’S INNOVATIVE WEAPON SOLUTION TO BRIDGE BATTLEFIELD PERFORMANCE GAP

GARLAND, Texas, June 18, 2024 — Texas-based ammunition and weapon system manufacturer TV Ammo, Inc. (“True Velocity”) and FN America, LLC (“FN America”), a global leader in the development and manufacture of military small arms, have announced a strategic licensing and manufacturing partnership for the production of True Velocity’s .338 Norma Lightweight Medium Machine Gun for U.S. and Allied military units.

The partnership positions FN America as a primary manufacturer of True Velocity’s .338 Norma machine gun, a recoil-mitigated weapon system designed to provide warfighters with range and terminal performance similar to that of the century-old .50-caliber M2 machine gun in a lightweight, functional profile comparable to that of the ubiquitous M240 machine gun also manufactured by FN America.

“True Velocity’s .338 machine gun will change the battlefield for our warfighters. We are thrilled that FN will join with us so we can equip U.S. and Allied militaries with this combat advantage,” said True Velocity President and Chief Intellectual Property Officer Craig Etchegoyen. “It very quickly became clear that FN is a world-renowned, reliable, and respected manufacturer of innovative machine guns, and we’re excited for them to join our mission.”

A lightweight machine gun solution chambered for the .338 Norma cartridge has been a focal point of requirements emerging from the U.S. Department of Defense and Allied militaries in recent years. In March 2024, the United States Department of Defense selected True Velocity’s .338 Norma Lightweight Medium Machine Gun for continued evaluation in a military program aimed at fielding a weapon system that would bridge the performance gap between the .50-caliber M2 machine gun and the M240 machine gun chambered for 7.62x51mm NATO. The combination of True Velocity’s recoil-mitigated .338 Norma Lightweight Medium Machine Gun and its advanced, lightweight composite-cased ammunition provides a turn-key combat solution capable of enhanced controllability, maximized maneuverability, and extreme precision at extended range.

“FN America is extremely excited to partner with True Velocity on this effort to deliver the next medium machine gun to the U.S. military,” said Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America, LLC. “Both companies share that drive and desire to innovate and deliver game-changing technology to the warfighter. This has produced a really great team environment on this effort.”

Incorporating proprietary “impulse-averaging recoil mitigation” technology, True Velocity’s .338 Norma machine gun delivers a 300-grain projectile with enhanced range and precision, while optimizing controllability and maintaining a profile similar to that of the M240 belt-fed machine gun, which is chambered for the smaller, less energetic 7.62x51mm cartridge.

“True Velocity’s lightweight medium machine gun submission is the product of more than a decade of continued innovation and rigorous evaluation,” said True Velocity Senior Executive Vice President of Sales Kevin Sims. “This weapon system delivers unprecedented tactical and operational capabilities to our American warfighters. The sooner we bring it to the battlefield, the better.”

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

Schiebel Opens Facility in France

Friday, June 21st, 2024

Vienna, 20 June 2024 – The Schiebel Group is strengthening its European footprint by establishing Schiebel Aéronaval SAS in Toulon, France.

The CAMCOPTER® S-100 has been in service with the French Ministry of Armed Forces since 2012. In order to more closely support this successful partnership and meet the operational requirements of the Armed Forces in case of major engagements, Schiebel has established a company in France, situated close to its customer, in Toulon. The new Schiebel entity will provide localised support for the French Navy’s fleet of S-100 within the framework of a 5-year contract DMAé (Direction de la Maintenance Aéronautique) awarded to Schiebel at the end of 2023.

Schiebel Aéronaval SAS will house a production and repair facility to conduct the assembly and maintenance of the S-100 systems for the French Navy and other customers. The new Schiebel company will also have a training department to train operators and maintenance technicians.

Furthermore and significantly, the entity is intended to become the main European production and payload integration site for the evolving CAMCOPTER® S-300.

Schiebel Aéronaval SAS embeds itself into the French Aerospace industrial network, works closely with other local French companies and is expected to generate many employment opportunities in the Toulon area.

“We are extremely proud to count France, renowned for its emphasis on strategic autonomy, among the CAMCOPTER® S-100 users. Opening a facility in Toulon not only enables us to serve the French Navy better, but also to be closer to our French industrial partners and benefit from the advantages of the region, including direct access to the sea. We are more than excited about the new opportunities this important step will bring“, said Lubos Sramek, CEO of Schiebel Aéronaval SAS.

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Wilkie Announces Strategic Partnership with Ocean State Innovations (OSI)

Friday, June 21st, 2024

Lowell, MA – Wilkie Technical Textiles, a global leader in advanced technical textile solutions, is delighted to announce a significant strategic partnership with Ocean State Innovations (OSI). OSI, renowned worldwide for its exceptional textile solutions, quality, and service, will now serve as the primary liaison for a variety of Wilkie America products manufactured in Lowell, MA. Wilkie America has unique capabilities for applying a broad range of polymer coatings onto textile substates for military, medical, workwear, automotive, and heat protection fabrics. Wilkie America draws on the expertise of the wider Wilkie group for spinning, weaving, and finishing of base fabrics.

This collaboration marks a pivotal step in our journey towards growth and progress, leveraging the combined strengths of Wilkie and OSI to enhance our service offerings and deliver superior textile solutions to our valued customers.

Key Benefits of the Partnership:

Enhanced Service and Quality: OSI’s commitment to outstanding quality and service aligns perfectly with Wilkie’s mission to provide locally manufactured advanced textile solutions. This partnership will ensure that our customers continue to receive the highest standards of products and services.

Innovation and Product Development: Wilkie and OSI are mutually dedicated to product innovation and improvement. Drawing on our global knowledge pool and development resources, we look forward to working with existing and new customers to develop the next era of advanced technical textiles.

Primary Liaison for Wilkie America Products: Moving forward, Ocean State Innovations will be the main point of contact for a variety of Wilkie products manufactured in Lowell, MA. This streamlined communication channel is expected to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.

This partnership exemplifies our shared commitment to pioneering cutting-edge solutions and delivering unparalleled service in the textile industry.

We look forward to a prosperous future together and appreciate your continued support as we embark on this exciting new chapter.

A representative from the OSI team will reach out to you shortly to discuss how this partnership can benefit you. In the interim, should you have any queries or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact Bryan Boulis directly at OSI via email at Bryan.Boulis@1947llc.com or by phone at 508-801-3685. Jim Lauer will stay on as President of the Lowell facility and can be contacted at jim.lauer@wilkieamerica.com or by phone at 847-257-2337.

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Blue Force Gear to Attend 2024 NSSF Range-Retailer Business Expo: Celebrating 20 Years of Innovation in Load Carriage

Friday, June 21st, 2024

West Palm Beach, FL – 7/9/2024 – Blue Force Gear (“BFG”), a leading manufacturer of tactical gear for military, law enforcement, and civilian markets, announces its participation in the 2024 NSSF Range-Retailer Business Expo (“RRBE”), taking place July 10th -11th, in West Palm Beach, Florida.

This year marks a significant milestone for BFG – 20 years of dedication to developing and delivering the industry’s most trusted load carriage systems. From the very beginning, BFG has set the standard for performance and durability, earning the respect and loyalty of countless military and law enforcement professionals around the world.

“For two decades, Blue Force Gear has been driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation,” says Ashley Burnsed, CEO. “We take immense pride in serving those who put their lives on the line every day, and we remain committed to providing them with the gear they need to operate at peak efficiency.”

BFG’s commitment extends beyond the battlefield. The company recognizes the importance of supporting the needs of commercial and civilian customers who share a passion for preparedness and functionality. At the expo, BFG will showcase its extensive line of products, including: