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BFG Talks Tariff Impacts

Tuesday, May 6th, 2025

POOLER, GA. – Blue Force Gear, Inc., the world leader in load carriage equipment innovation, confirms that the tariff talks this year have had no operational or pricing impacts to their brand while reaffirming their longstanding commitment to Made In America manufacturing.

“Since our beginnings in 2004, Blue Force Gear hasproudly manufactured our products on American soil, using American materials, while employing American workers,” said Ashley Burnsed, CEO of Blue Force Gear. “Our commitment to serve the U.S. Armed Forces and U.S. law-abiding citizens with Berry Amendment Compliant goods has always been a central principle of our brand.”

The Berry Amendment requires that gear manufacturers supplying to the Department of Defense must use domestically produced textiles, materials, and components throughout their manufacturing process. Blue Force Gear has producedstate of the art Berry Compliant goods for over two decades, ensuring complete American production from raw materials to finished goods.

As international trade tensions build, and global supply chains and foreign-made equipment faces increased import tariffs, Blue Force Gear remains unaffected due to their “Always Made In America” business standard.

“While others now scramble to relocate production or face rising costs, our customers can continue to count on the same reliable, high-quality equipment with NO PRICE INCREASES related to tariffs,” said Ashley Burnsed. “By maintaining domestic control over our supply chain, we’ve built resilience against global disruptions like the current tariff situation. This allows us to maintain consistent quality, pricing, and delivery timelines for our military, law enforcement, and civilian customers.”

Located in Pooler, GA, Blue Force Gear currently employs over 100 American workers and supports jobs for hundreds more. Blue Force Gear’s vision statement to “Empower everyday heroes with superior mindset, knowledge, and equipment needed to prevail in critical circumstances” is carried out not only by their team of Americans but also by those who trust their lives to BFG.

For more information about Blue Force Gear or any of their product offerings, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Victory First Assumes Daily Operations of Ares Gear, Expanding Capabilities in Premium Tactical Equipment

Monday, May 5th, 2025

Fredericksburg, Virginia – May 5, 2025 – Victory First, a leader in firearms training, consulting, and product development, is proud to announce that it has officially agreed to assume all day-to-day operations of Ares Gear, the Ohio-based soft goods manufacturer renowned for its flagship product, the Aegis belt. The transfer of operations is set to begin June 1, 2025.

Ares Gear has long been a respected name in the tactical gear industry, known for producing rugged, high-quality belts and accessories tailored for military, law enforcement, and civilian use. The Aegis belt, in particular, has become a trusted staple in the everyday carry and tactical communities for its innovative design, durability, and functionality.

With this transition, Victory First will oversee all aspects of Ares Gear’s operations, including production, logistics, customer service, and product development. The partnership will allow

Ares Gear to maintain its commitment to craftsmanship and reliability, while leveraging Victory First’s industry expertise, expanded infrastructure, and proven leadership in product innovation.

“We’re excited to bring the Ares Gear brand under the Victory First umbrella,” said Matt Jacques, founder of Victory First. “I have known Jake and used Ares Gear products for years.

Our goal is to not only maintain the legacy and quality Ares Gear customers expect, but to enhance operations and product offerings as we move forward.”

“After nearly twenty years in this field, I can count on one hand the number of people I know who I would trust to carry Ares Gear forward with the same emphasis on quality products and the same level of service that we’ve been able to provide our customers,” said Jake Sebens, owner of Ares Gear. “I’m glad to be working even more closely with Victory First and Matt Jacques; there’s not a doubt in my mind that it’s the best choice for our customers and for our future.”

Current and future customers can expect uninterrupted service, with the same high standards of quality and customer support that Ares Gear is known for. Victory First plans to expand on Ares Gear’s product lines and explore new design innovations while continuing to support and grow the existing catalog.

For more information, visit www.victory-first.com and www.aresgear.com

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GA-ASI Statement on USAF CCA Program Updates

Monday, May 5th, 2025

SAN DIEGO – 01 May 2025 – The CCA program represents a groundbreaking new era in combat aviation, and we remain on schedule to test and fly YFQ-42 in the coming months. Over the past three decades, GA-ASI has pioneered more than two dozen different unmanned aircraft types for the U.S. and its allies, including multiple unmanned combat jets flying today, and logged nearly 9 million total flight hours. Our work on YFQ-42 will further expand the field of unmanned aviation, and we remain excited for the future.

We congratulate the Beale AFB community on its selection to support this new era of air dominance, and we look forward to partnering with you as the program progresses. To that end, I’m pleased to announce that GA-ASI will give the Beale community a sneak peek later this summer, with an exhibition of our full-scale YFQ-42 model on display at the Beale Air and Space Expo beginning June 7.

David R. Alexander

President

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

Posted in Aviation, Industry, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Statement on USAF CCA Program Updates

EOTECH Partners with ForumPay to offer Cryptocurrency Payments on Website

Sunday, May 4th, 2025

Plymouth, MI (May 2025) – In an effort to enhance the shopping experience with its customers, EOTECH has partnered with ForumPay, a leader in cryptocurrency payment solutions for both online and PoS systems, to seamlessly accept crypto payments on its ecommerce site.

“With the number of crypto consumers expected to reach one billion by the end of 2025, crypto payment acceptance is fast becoming an essential requirement for ecommerce retailers across the globe,” said ForumPay CEO, Josh Tate. “We are excited to be working with EOTECH to provide our next generation payment solution to its customers and further enhance their buying experience.”

Advantages EOTECH customers will recognize are reduced transactional costs compared to typical credit cards, as well as secure, private, and transparent transactions. EOTECH benefits by tapping into a new demographic of consumers who prefer using cryptocurrencies for their purchases, as well as improving the overall purchasing experience of its customers.

“Our goal here is to remove any barriers that customers may have in purchasing our products,” said Jacob Wolfrum, Digital & E-Commerce Manager for EOTECH. “ForumPay offers simple APIs and plugins that easily integrated into our platform providing a simple process, useful dashboard and great customer service. This was a simple decision that mutually benefits our customers and business.”

The crypto purchasing option is live on the EOTECH website now and can be selected at checkout.

For more information, please visit www.eotechinc.com

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SLG2, Inc. Welcomes DryFireMag as New Corporate Partner

Saturday, May 3rd, 2025

ATHENS, Ala. – April 28, 2025 – SLG2, Inc. is thrilled to announce the addition of DryFireMag as its latest corporate partner for 2025. This partnership showcases SLG2, Inc.’s commitment to providing top-quality products and empowering individuals in shooting sports.

Since 2012, DryFireMag has taken firearm training to the next level. DryFireMag is a training magazine that uses an individual’s own firearm to provide trigger simulation. The DryFireMag not only resets the trigger but simulates a true dry fire trigger-break, eliminating the need to re-rack while practicing shooting skills.

“We are thrilled to welcome our newest corporate partner, DryFireMag,” said Karen Butler, founder and president of SLG2 Inc. “DryFireMag is committed to providing realistic shooting scenarios that build good habits among shooters. Together, we will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those who attend our one-of-a-kind experiences.”

Over the past 16 years, SLG2, Inc. has had the privilege of hosting guests in their immersive SLG2 experience. As the company celebrates its 2025 Authentic Tour, SLG2, Inc. remains steadfast in its mission to empower individuals to participate in shooting sports with confidence. With a legacy of success and a promising future, SLG2, Inc. continues to positively impact the lives of countless individuals.

“We’re excited to partner with Shoot Like a Girl!” said DryFireMag CEO John Seigler. “We look forward to seeing families have fun while learning about safety and improving their shooting skills.”

With its focus on training and convenience, DryFireMag has become a trusted name in the industry. To learn more about DryFireMag and experience these exceptional products firsthand, visit Shoot Like A Girl’s Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s tour locations. Stop by and discover the quality and innovation that DryFireMag brings to the world of shooting.

Together, SLG2, Inc. and DryFireMag will continue to inspire and empower individuals to embrace shooting sports and create unforgettable experiences.

For more information about SLG2, Inc and its brands, please visit shootlikeagirl.com.

Posted in For the Ladies, Industry, Press Release, Shooting Sports | Comments Off on SLG2, Inc. Welcomes DryFireMag as New Corporate Partner

Mehler Protection to Showcase Advanced Ballistic Solutions at IDET 2025

Saturday, May 3rd, 2025

FULDA, GERMANY (30.04.2025)

Mehler Protection, a leading provider of advancedballistic protection systems, is set to participate in IDET 2025, the International Defence and Security Technologies Fair, scheduled from May 28 to 30 in Brno, Czech Republic. As one of Central Europe’s premier defence and security exhibitions, IDET offers a platform for industry leaders to present cutting-edge solutions to military and law enforcement professionals.

At Booth 110, Mehler Protection will showcase a selection of its personal ballistic protection systems—offering tailored solutions for a variety of operational needs. Centre stage will be the newly launched HYVE vest, a modular protective waistcoat designed for law enforcement and security personnel. The HYVE combines low weight, high flexibility, and full systems capability. With a quick-release mechanism and anadjustable, ergonomic fit, it delivers comfort and reliability for both urban and tactical deployments.

Also on display will be the M.U.S.T. System—Modular Universal Scalable Technology—designed to support military special operations. This system allows users to adapt their ballistic protection in real time by combining different components, such as base vests, collars, groin and shoulder protectors, and various ballistic packages. It delivers scalable protection up to VPAM 9, ensuring mission-ready flexibility in dynamic threat environments.

Visitors can also explore a selection of Mehler Protection’s riot control gear, plate carriers, hard and softballistic plates, helmets, and ballistic shields—each built to meet or exceed strict international standards and tested for operational durability.

For more information, visit: mehler-systems.com/event/idet-2025

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Frances Hunt Promoted to Head of Defence Marketing at Wescom Group

Friday, May 2nd, 2025

Wescom Group is pleased to announce that Frances Hunt has been promoted to the role of Head of Defence Marketing at Wescom Group.

Frances has been Group Marketing Manager at Wescom for the last three years, having previously filled the Sales Manager role.

As Head of Defence Marketing, Frances is responsible for determining how WescomGroup promotes and positions its defence brands globally. She explains: “My focus is on building awareness, delivering strong campaigns, and ensuring our message resonates with the right audiences, whether through exhibitions, digital platforms, or close collaboration with our sales teams.”

A key part of the role currently involves Frances working closely with integrating newly-acquired BCB International into the Wescom Group. “This is a real pleasure,” she explains. “I previously worked at BCB International Ltd as the EU Business Development Manager from 2012 to 2014, and many of my former colleagues are still there. It’s been great to reconnect with them now that BCB is part of WescomGroup.”

“Frances’ promotion is well-deserved and she has all the skills and capabilities to handle this wide-reaching and important role in the defence sector,” says Wescom Group Marketing Director Sean McCrystal. “Her extensive experience through Wescom and previously at BCB International is invaluable and she is well-known, respected and has all the right contacts to maximise Wescom Group marketing activity in the defence marketplace.”

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Xenith Solutions Welcomes Mario Contreras as Account Executive for USSOCOM

Friday, May 2nd, 2025

LEESBURG, Va., May 1, 2025 — Xenith Solutions, a leading provider of innovative IT, data, and mission support services for the federal government, proudly announces the hiring of Mario Contreras as Account Executive for U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). This pivotal hire underscores Xenith’s growing commitment to supporting the unique missions of the Special Operations Forces (SOF) community.

Mario Contreras’ distinguished career spanning over three decades allows him to bring unparalleled experience in intelligence, data strategy, and defense operations to the Xenith team. His extensive background includes service as a retired Chief Warrant Officer Three (CW3) in the U.S. Army, over nine years at the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), and significant leadership roles within USSOCOM’s Chief Data Office.

“Bringing Mario on board represents a strategic step in our growth and deepening partnership with the Department of Defense,” said Lee Shabe, CEO of Xenith Solutions. “His expertise, leadership, and firsthand understanding of the SOF environment make him the ideal choice to lead our efforts in support of USSOCOM’s complex and evolving mission requirements.”

Most recently, Contreras served as the Chief Data Officer at Exovera, where he led enterprise data initiatives, and as an Account Executive at SOSi, managing defense and intelligence portfolios. He also contributes as an Advisory Board Member for Foundation Stack AI, further demonstrating his passion for driving innovation in defense technologies.

“Joining Xenith Solutions is an exciting opportunity to help shape and deliver mission-critical solutions for an organization I deeply respect and understand,” said Contreras. “I’m honored to continue to support USSOCOM’s objectives and look forward to advancing Xenith’s mission in this space.”

The addition of Contreras to Xenith Solutions demonstrates the company poised to broaden its footprint in the Special Operations domain, offering tailored support in mission planning, data operations, cyber defense, and agile technology integration.

For more information, please visit: www.xenithsolutions.com

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