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Archive for the ‘Industry’ Category

Red Cat Closes Acquisition of Quaze Technologies

Thursday, May 21st, 2026

ACQUISITION ADDS WIRELESS POWER CAPABILITY TO RED CAT’S ALL-DOMAIN SYSTEMS, REMOVING A CRITICAL BOTTLENECK TO PERSISTENT AUTONOMOUS OPERATIONS ACROSS AIR, LAND AND MARITIME ENVIRONMENTS

SALT LAKE CITY, May 20, 2026 — Red Cat Holdings, Inc.(Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat” or the “Company”), a U.S.-based provider of advanced all-domain drone and robotic solutions for defense and national security, today announced it has acquired Quaze Technologies Inc. (“Quaze”), a Québec-based developer of wireless power transfer technology for unmanned systems, drones and autonomous machines.

Quaze will operate as an independent Red Cat business unit, continuing to develop and scale its wireless power architecture for integration across Red Cat’s Family of Systems, while maintaining its platform-agnostic model supporting third-party OEMs across air, ground and maritime domains.

The acquisition addresses one of the most significant remaining barriers to true robotic autonomy: power. While unmanned systems have rapidly advanced in autonomy, navigation and mission execution, most still rely on manual battery swaps or precise, connector-based charging systems that are difficult to deploy reliably in contested or harsh environments. Quaze’s technology enables systems to recharge autonomously, extending mission duration while reducing operator burden and exposure.

At the core of Quaze’s platform is its QU6 electronic architecture, which enables large surfaces to function as wireless energy access points and can be embedded across a wide range of platforms and environments. Unlike traditional charging approaches, the system does not require precise alignment, physical connectors or direct contact between transmitter and receiver, allowing systems to access power even in the presence of debris, sand, ice or snow. By eliminating moving mechanical parts, the architecture reduces failure points and enables reliable operation in real-world field conditions where conventional solutions often break down.

“Autonomous systems are only as effective as their ability to stay in the fight,” said Jeff Thompson, CEO of Red Cat. “Quaze gives us a critical advantage by removing one of the biggest operational constraints, which is how systems recharge in the field. This enables longer-duration missions, supports distributed operations across air, land and sea, and strengthens our ability to deliver fully integrated, all-domain solutions for the warfighter.”

Quaze’s technology can be deployed across a wide range of environments and platforms, including vehicle-mounted systems, drone-in-a-box solutions, uncrewed surface vessels, fixed infrastructure and underwater charging stations. This enables new operational concepts such as vehicle-based “mothership” deployments, distributed charging networks and persistent operations across complex terrain, borders, infrastructure corridors and maritime environments.

Red Cat expects Quaze to play an important role in expanding its all-domain capabilities, particularly as the Company advances further into maritime systems and multi-platform autonomy. The ability to integrate wireless charging into uncrewed surface vessels and other mobile platforms creates new opportunities for persistent drone operations, including swarming, extended ISR missions and autonomous deployment cycles.

The acquisition also expands Red Cat’s addressable market by introducing a new revenue channel beyond its own platforms. Quaze’s technology is designed for seamless integration into third-party systems as an embedded power capability, enabling adoption across a broad range of robotics platforms. This platform-agnostic approach positions Quaze as a potential standard for wireless power across the unmanned systems ecosystem, allowing Red Cat to generate revenue from systems it does not manufacture while accelerating adoption of autonomous technologies.

“Robotics has made major advances in autonomy and intelligence, but energy has remained a limiting factor,” said Xavier Bidaut, Co-founder of Quaze Technologies. “Our goal is to make power as accessible and reliable as fuel is for traditional vehicles and something every drone or robot can tap into, anywhere, without friction. By joining Red Cat, we can accelerate that vision and help establish a common power infrastructure for autonomous systems across industries.”

Quaze’s technology has been demonstrated across multiple robotic platforms, including aerial drones, ground systems and autonomous underwater vehicles, and is currently being evaluated for a wide range of dual use applications. The Company’s focus on simplicity, ease of integration and operational resilience has enabled rapid adoption across early partners and positions it to scale alongside the newest innovations in autonomous systems.

BDT UK Announces Exclusive Partnership with the London Proof House

Tuesday, May 19th, 2026

Tampa, Florida, SOF Week, 19 May – Beretta Defence Technologies UK (BDT UK) has signed an exclusive agreement with the London Proof House, the UK’s statutory authority for the testing and safety certifications of small arms, to provide the advanced testing and proofing for the rifles it is putting forward to replace the current SA80 as part of Project GRAYBURN.  

The agreement will mean that, should BDT UK win Project GRAYBURN, the London Proof House will provide all weapon proofing to ensure either the Beretta NARP or Sako ARG40 is ready for frontline service. The decision to sign the exclusive agreement is part of BDT UK’s mature position on Project GRAYBURN and recognises the essential part that proofing will play as part of the UK manufacturing chain. 

As part of the development of its proposal for Project GRAYBURN, the business has highlighted that testing and proofing of the weapons is likely to present a critical step in the manufacturing process that is often overlooked. This agreement is aimed at ensuring these steps are at the centre of BDT UK’s offering to streamline the process from weapons manufacturing to front-line fielding.  

The London Proof House remains one of only two proofing institutions in the UK. It continues to operate under the authority of the Gun Barrel Proof Act and subsequent legislative updates. The Proof House is responsible for testing both new and imported firearms, as well as re-proofing older guns that have undergone repairs or modifications. 

The announcement comes as BDT UK demonstrates its proposal for Project GRAYBURN at SOF Week, focused on the importance of manufacturing the British Army’s future weapon systems in the UK. 

Jack Cadman, Military Group Manager at BDT UK, said: “Our exclusive agreement with the London Proof House demonstrates the development of our sovereign manufacturing model for Project GRAYBURN and our focus on limiting risk for the customer. Having a partnership with the UK’s leading proofing organisation will help streamline manufacturing, getting new rifles into the hands of our soldiers faster.” 

David Miles, Proof Master at The Worshipful Company of Gunmakers, said: “BDT UK engaged us early in their bid preparation cycle and recognised the vital role that proofing will play in the manufacturing and delivery of Project GRAYBURN. This agreement represents a significant opportunity for the London Proof House, and we look forward to supporting BDT UK’s proposition to UK Defence.” 

Botach Named Benelli’s 2025 Dealer of the Year

Saturday, May 16th, 2026

LAS VEGAS, NV — Benelli has named Botach Inc. its 2025 Dealer of the Year. The award recognizes Botach for its sales volume, technical depth, and long service to federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Botach has grown into one of the largest and most-trusted suppliers of duty firearms, optics, body armor, and mission-critical gear to agencies across the United States.

A Heavy Hitter in LE Contracting

Botach holds active vendor relationships with thousands of law enforcement agencies, military units, and federal contracting offices, and is a registered supplier across multiple government procurement platforms. Recognition from Benelli, one of the most respected shotgun manufacturers in the world, reflects how far that footprint now reaches.

Botach continues to scale its LE-focused operations across duty-grade shotguns, patrol rifles, optics, protective equipment and all other Tactical Gear. Botach’s dedicated agency sales team handles bulk procurement, agency demos, police trades, and customized loadouts for departments transitioning between platforms.

The Shotgun’s Return to Patrol

Botach’s win arrives at a turning point for the 12-gauge in American policing. After two decades in the patrol rifle’s shadow, the shotgun is back.

Two mission profiles are driving the resurgence. The first is load flexibility. A single shotgun can run buckshot, slugs, less-lethal munitions, breaching rounds, and specialty loads inside the same shift. No other system in the patrol fleet covers that range. For warrant service, building clearing, crowd management, animal control, and vehicle disabling, the platform remains a proven tool.

The second is airborne. Small unmanned aerial systems have moved counter-sUAS planning onto every chief’s desk. Contraband drops over prison yards, unauthorized overflights of stadiums and federal buildings, and reconnaissance flights over critical infrastructure are now routine. Electronic countermeasures are expensive and legally complicated. A semi-auto 12-gauge loaded with anti-drone shells is neither. The shotgun has re-emerged as the most accessible and effective short-range counter-drone tool an officer can carry.

“The shotgun is one of the most adaptable tools an agency can deploy,” Botach added. “From less-lethal response to anti-drone work, departments are realizing the 12-gauge isn’t outdated. It’s evolving. We are seeing record demand from agencies upgrading to modern semi-auto platforms like the Benelli M4.”

Why Benelli

The Benelli M4 Platform is in service with the United States Marine Corps and dozens of federal and municipal agencies, and is widely regarded as one of the most reliable combat shotguns in production. Botach has been a long-standing authorized Benelli dealer, supplying individual officers and full agency contracts with M4, M2, M3, Nova, and Super Nova platforms.

“Benelli Law Enforcement is proud to partner with Botach as we strive to bring the best duty use shotguns to Law Enforcement personnel nationwide,” said Jeff Sterner, National Sales Manager – LE/GOV, Benelli USA.

The Dealer of the Year recognition is awarded on sales volume to LE and government customers, quality of technical support and warranty handling, inventory consistency during periods of high demand, and sustained partnership across the LE community.

About Botach Inc.

Botach Inc. is a U.S.-based supplier of tactical equipment, firearms, optics, body armor, and mission-critical gear, with a specialized focus on law enforcement, military, and government contracting. Headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, Botach serves Military, Federal Agencies, State and Municipal Police Departments, Sheriff’s Offices, Corrections Departments, and qualified professionals nationwide. The company is an authorized dealer for leading manufacturers across the law enforcement and tactical industry.

For agency sales, bulk procurement, and government contracting inquiries, visit botach.com.

UNITY Tactical Hires MIKE Silva as Vice President OF Global Sales and Business Development

Friday, May 15th, 2026

Industry Veteran Brings Experience to Lead Global Sales and Growth Initiatives

May 14, 2026 (Broussard, LA) – UNITY Tactical®, a designer of components that integrate tactical systems and optimize the human factor, announced the hire of Mike Silva as vice president of global sales and business development. In this role, Silva joins the executive leadership team and is responsible for leading UNITY’s sales and business development efforts across its diverse professional and enthusiast markets worldwide. He will oversee the strategic expansion of UNITY’s global footprint, manage domestic and international partner networks, and direct capture strategy and program management for high-level defense and law enforcement contracts globally.

Silva is an industry veteran who brings more than 10 years of relevant experience. He spent seven years serving as director of business development to the U.S. DOD for Team Wendy® (an Avon Protection PLC company), where he managed sales and business development across all branches of military service. During his tenure, Silva successfully spearheaded strategic initiatives that drove a significant increase in military sales. His leadership there included standing up the NAVAIR HGU-98/P helmet program from its inception to the delivery of over 80,000 helmets for Navy and Marine Corps maintainers.

“Mike will bring an informed perspective to UNITY®,” said Jose Rizo-Patron, president of UNITY Tactical. “His experience leading business development efforts coupled with his deep understanding of the defense market will usher continued growth as we continue to expand our global footprint.”

“UNITY has established an unmatched reputation for innovation, product quality, and a relentless focus on optimizing the human factor,” Silva said. “As an avid hunter, I was a UNITY customer prior to joining the company. I am honored to join this incredibly talented team during such a dynamic period of global growth, and I look forward to delivering UNITY’s cutting-edge solutions to our military, law enforcement, and civilian customers worldwide.”

Prior to joining UNITY Tactical, Silva most recently served as director of business development and strategy for Clandestine Media Group™, leading client strategy and growth initiatives across defense, tactical and commercial markets through integrated media and marketing solutions. Before his time at Clandestine, he was the director of business development for Opto-Knowledge Systems Inc. (OKSI™), where he focused on government and B2B opportunities that aligned with the company’s technology roadmap.

NIOA Onboards Hydrix in Counter-Drone Partnership

Friday, May 15th, 2026

NIOA has partnered with Hydrix to deliver critical counter-drone capabilities to the Australian Defence Force. 

The agreement teams Australian-owned NIOA with Hydrix for support on the design and development of electronic fuzing and kinetic effector payload sub-components for integration on small Uncrewed Aerial Systems (sUAS). 

Under the agreement, Hydrix will provide electronic design and development support to NIOA for its telemetry capable Inert Proximity?Fuze?and Kinetic Effector sUAS payload?package. 

This collaboration will include?electronic design integration of the payload and sUAS host platform utilising a standardised interface plus the integration of payload proximity sensors and Electronic,?Safe?Arm?& Function?(ESAF) device. 

The all-Australian partnership combines?NIOA’s?expertise?in?Explosive Ordnance (EO) design, manufacturing and qualification with?Hydrix’s role as?the electronic designer and integrator of the payload subsystems.  

NIOA Australia-New Zealand CEO Ben James said: “The onboarding of Australian SME partners to support development of critical technologies is an important step towards establishment of sovereign capabilities to accelerate our asymmetric deterrence.

“NIOA is delighted to be partnering with Hydrix to bring our collective experience, capacity and industry knowledge on electronic fuzing and warhead technologies to bear in order to provide the men and women of the ADF with sovereign, battle-ready counter UAS capabilities.” 

Hydrix Executive Chairman Gavin Coote said: “NIOA’s selection of Hydrix demonstrates that our strategy to expand our presence in Australia’s sovereign defence technologies capability is on track.

“The NIOA project builds on our experience in the design, development and integration of critical sub-systems in counter-UAS applications to expand domestic capability.”

With the war in Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East showing how uncrewed aerial systems are increasingly being employed in conflict, the development of sovereign counter-drone solutions and accompanying kinetic effector payloads supporting these solutions are essential to ensure the ADF can deter these threats.
 


From left – NIOA’s Deputy Chief Engineer David Nink and General Manager Engineering Rudi Bekker with Hydrix’s Director of Engineering Andrew Beal and Director Business Development Peter Riddell at Hydrix’s headquarters in Melbourne. The two companies are teaming up to develop key components for counter-drone systems.

Darley Recognized as a US Best Managed Company

Thursday, May 14th, 2026

ITASCA, IL, May 13th, 2026 — Darley is proud to announce it has been selected as a 2026 US Best Managed Company. Sponsored by Deloitte Private* and The Wall Street Journal, the program recognizes outstanding U.S. private companies.

The 2026 designees are U.S. private companies that have demonstrated excellence in strategic planning and execution, a commitment to their people, as well as maintaining financial performance and governance. This year’s class is making bold investments in digital transformation, including AI capabilities, and demonstrates the ability to drive sustainable growth and maintain resilience during times of volatility. Best Managed Companies are built on a foundation of trust and reflect a sense of purpose that fosters connections with their employees, customers and communities.

Ashley Everson, Chief Human Resources Officer, comments: “This recognition belongs to our people. Earning the U.S. Best Managed Companies award for a second year highlights the strength of our team, our culture of collaboration, and our shared commitment to operational excellence and disciplined growth.”

Applicants are evaluated and selected by a panel of external judges focused on assessing hallmarks of excellence in four key areas: strategy, ability to execute, corporate culture, and governance/financial performance. They join a global ecosystem of honorees from more than 44 countries recognized by the Best Managed Companies program.

About the Best Managed Companies Program

The Best Managed Companies program is a mark of excellence for private companies. U.S. designees have revenues of at least $250 million. Hundreds of private companies around the world have competed for this designation in their respective countries through a rigorous and independent process that evaluates four key criteria in their management skills and practices — strategy, execution, culture, and governance/financials. U.S. program sponsors are Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. For more information, visit www.usbestmanagedcompanies.com

Wing Group Showcases Integrated Maritime and Survival Systems at SOF Week 2026

Thursday, May 14th, 2026

The Wing Group is out in force at SOF Week in Tampa, with the Mustang Survival trailer located in the outdoor pavilion at booth 4313, Wing Inflatables on the pier at docks 26/27, and additional presence inside the convention hall alongside SOAL Marine and Kraka at booth 2500. Wing partner brands and products can also be found throughout the event across multiple exhibitor locations. 

The portfolio spans combatant craft from Wing Inflatables—currently fielded by U.S. Army and Naval Special Warfare units—alongside aviation-grade life rafts from Patten, and flotation and technical apparel from Mustang Survival. Notably, elements of these platforms supported NASA’s Artemis II recovery operations. 

Also on display is Kokatat’s AP-PPE chemical and biological protective garment system, built with GORE® CHEMPAK® fabrics, expanding the group’s capabilities into CBRN protective apparel. 

Together, the brands highlight Wing’s role as an integrated provider of mission-critical equipment for operations on and around the water. The Wing Groupwill host a joint happy hour with PROJECT R3CON at the trailer on Tuesday, May 19 at 16:00 in support of the SOF community.

EOTECH Partners with Walk the Talk America During Mental Health Awareness Month

Wednesday, May 13th, 2026

Plymouth, MI (May 2026) – May 2026 marks the 77th annual Mental Health Awareness Month, focusing on reducing stigma, providing education, and promoting community support. This year, EOTECH has partnered with Walk The Talk America (WTTA), a national nonprofit 501(c)(3) that works at the intersection of mental health and responsible firearm ownership to reduce negative outcomes with firearms.  

“One of the biggest challenges in suicide prevention is reaching people in ways that feel trusted, respectful, and culturally relevant. That’s why this partnership matters. EOTECH understands the community they serve, and together we’re helping normalize conversations around mental health within the firearms community without judgment or politics.” Said Michael Sodini, Founder of WTTA.  “We’ve always believed the firearms community can be part of the solution. Gun owners care deeply about protecting their families, friends, and communities, and that includes mental health. Partnerships like this help expand access to resources while reinforcing a culture of responsibility, awareness, and support.”

“EOTECH is a staunch supporter of the 2nd Amendment and active sponsor of several mental health awareness programs over the years” said Lisa Kemp, Director of Marketing.  “The WTTA is an ideal partner because they bridge the gap between personal and public health and individual rights and responsibilities”

In addition to the monetary donation, EOTECH will include a specially designed flyer in each of their consumer shipments sold in the US.  The flyer will provide information on mental health resources, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being alongside responsible firearm ownership.  The flyer will direct users to WTTA’s resources, encouraging a proactive approach to mental health within the firearms community.

In the United States, we lose over 75 individuals to suicide by firearm every day.  Yet most suicide prevention efforts struggle to reach everyday gun owners in ways that feel respectful, culturally informed, and practical.  WTTA exists to close that gap.  For more information on WTTA and the services, materials, and training they provide, please visit www.walkthetalkamerica.org.