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NP Aerospace Launches Their Proven Through-Life Support Services Package into the Civilian Armoured Vehicles Market

Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025

NP Aerospace, the global vehicle integrator and armour manufacturer, has launched their proven through-life support services package into the Civilian Armoured Vehicles (CAVs) market. NP Aerospace currently supports over 18,000 vehicles across 30+ armoured, tactical, logistic and utility fleet types for a range of customers, globally, including the UK PMETS and CVSSP contracts. The know-how, practices and procedures developed to deliver this support are now being specifically shaped and offered into the global CAV marketplace, where it is estimated that there are over 100,000 vehicles in service across military, government, NGO and private security applications.

Support in this sector, to date, has been ad-hoc and decentralised. This fresh initiative will offer a one-stop-shop for fleet managers, no matter what vehicle types they may be operating.

In 2024, following the acquisition of certain assets of Jankel Armouring Limited, NP Aerospace inherited an established business stream in the specialist area of CAVs that includes both product (armoured vehicle designs, such as the Toyota Land Cruiser LC300) and support services, delivered to a range of globally deployed in-service CAV fleets – around 100+ vehicles across 8 customers. In the last 12 months, a number of former Jankel supply and support CAV contracts have been novated to NP Aerospace and the continued support to global customers has been a key requirement of that transition process. Now, 12 months on, NP Aerospace is launching the CAV support capability offering more widely, to ensure that the very best support services can be delivered to current customers but also to expand that proven service offering across the global fleets. Potential new CAV support clients range from ministries of defence to NGO’s, and individual vehicle fleets are widely spread in terms of deployed geography. NP Aerospace recognises the resultant challenges and has developed a robust service offering that can be trusted to deliver and includes the additional and significant capabilities and expertise developed through NP’s legacy activity in this operationally critical vehicle support services arena.

Specifically, NP’s CAV support services package is vehicle type agnostic and includes: handover and commissioning; operator and maintainer training; deployed support (Field Service Representation – FSR); spare parts; service and maintenance; post design services; refurbishment and mid-life improvements; and secure disposal/destruction. NP Aerospace has recently increased the team size of this department by 50%, attracting some key talent to specific roles, to enable the successful delivery of this service offering – reassuring their specialist CAV customers.

James Kempston, CEO of NP Aerospace, commented: “This is an exciting milestone as we expand our proven through-life support services into the civilian armoured vehicle (CAV) market. Drawing on our experience supporting over 18,000 military and security platforms worldwide, we are applying our expertise and trusted capabilities to civilian fleets, regardless of their operating environment. Importantly, this support isn’t limited to vehicles we manufacture – it can be delivered for any vehicle type, operated by any fleet manager, anywhere in the world.” He added: “At the same time, our LC300 armoured Toyota platform not only meets key requirements for compliance, protection, and safety – it’s also engineered with a strong focus on reliability and maintainability. By combining competitive pricing with extended service life through robust support, the LC300 delivers outstanding full-life value.”

Hanwha Names CEO for European and UK Defence Business

Monday, July 21st, 2025
  • Mr. Ben Hudson, CEO of Hanwha Defence Australia, has been appointed to lead Hanwha’s European and UK defence operations amid accelerating regional expansion.
  • Hanwha reinforces its commitment to localised, interoperable, and rapid capabilities for NATO and European allies.
  • Hanwha is dedicated to a multi-domestic strategy that strengthens sovereign defence capabilities in close partnership with European allies.

 

JULY 18, 2025: Hanwha Aerospace has named Mr. Ben Hudson as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to spearhead the company’s defence operations in Europe and the UK.

Mr. Hudson, who currently serves as CEO of Hanwha Defense Australia (HDA), will also oversee Hanwha’s existing operations across the region while spearheading the company’s future growth opportunities in Europe and the UK.

“I am honoured to join our European and UK defence leadership team at such a pivotal moment for both our company and our European partners,” Mr. Hudson said. “Hanwha’s long-term vision starts at the very top of the company, with a drive to partner with our customers and create enduring sovereign capabilities that can deliver solutions to the defence and security challenges faced by nations now and into the future.”

Prior to joining Hanwha, Mr. Hudson held senior executive roles with BAE Systems, Rheinmetall and General Dynamics, including fifteen years working for these companies in Switzerland, Germany and the UK. He is a mechanical engineer with an MBA from London Business School, served as an Officer in the Australian Army, including operational service in East Timor, and holds both British and Australian citizenship.

Mr. Hudson’s appointment comes as Hanwha accelerates its strategic expansion in Europe, strengthening its position as a trusted defence partner capable of delivering localised, interoperable, and rapid capability solutions to NATO member states and European allies.

With programmes already underway in several countries, such as Poland, Romania, Norway, Finland and Estonia, Hanwha is deeply committed to building a strong industrial footprint across Europe—supporting local economies, transferring technologies, and investing in sustainable defence ecosystems.

“As Hanwha looks to further globalise our business, we are very pleased to appoint Ben—who brings deep experience across European defence markets—to this key role leading our business in Europe and the UK,” said Mr. Michael Coulter, President and CEO of Hanwha Global Defense, which oversees all global business campaigns.

“Europe represents a vital part of Hanwha’s long-term, multi-domestic strategy, where we seek not only to expand our footprint, but also to invest in sovereign capacity and industrial resilience in partnership with local stakeholders,” he said. “Hanwha is fully committed to working closely with our European partners for national priorities, and this appointment marks the beginning of the next phase of our journey—one grounded in trust, long-term collaboration, and shared security goals.”

Hanwha’s Footprints in Europe

Hanwha’s presence in Europe dates back over 40 years, beginning with the establishment of Hanwha Europe GmbH in Eschborn, near Frankfurt. Today, Hanwha continues to expand its regional footprint through major investments and partnerships in countries such as Poland, Romania, Norway, and the UK.

Over the past decade, Hanwha has delivered five 37,000-ton Tide Class Replenishment at Sea (RAS) ships—four to the United Kingdom and one to Norway—demonstrating the company’s naval shipbuilding capability and trusted delivery record.

In the land systems domain, Hanwha has secured contracts for the delivery of more than 800 K9 Self-Propelled Howitzers to multiple European countries, including Poland, Norway, Finland, Estonia, and Romania. As part of its strategic cooperation with Poland, Hanwha is also delivering 290 Chunmoo Multiple Rocket Launch Systems to bolster the country’s long-range firepower.

In addition, Hanwha is a major supplier of artillery modular charges to NATO customers in Europe. The company has also established deep industrial partnerships across the continent to facilitate the export of European-manufactured components and technologies in support of Korean and international defence programmes.

Aceso Plasma Inc. Closes Initial Tranche of Series A Preferred Financing Led by Stony Lonesome Group

Monday, July 21st, 2025

Virginia Beach, VA – July 15, 2025 –?Aceso Plasma Inc., which develops cold plasma medical and decontamination technology, today announced it has successfully closed a Series A Preferred funding round of $500,000, led by Stony Lonesome Group, LLC. This milestone will support the next phase of clinical trials, regulatory advancement, and production development of Aceso’s oxygen-based cold plasma systems.

Sean Drake, Founder of Stony Lonesome Group, said: “We are thrilled to support Aceso Plasma. Founded by former Navy SEALs, the company exemplifies the kind of veteran-led innovation that Stony Lonesome Group has championed for over 14 years through our Mission-Focused investment thesis. The Aceso Plasma technology has significant potential across the spectrum of applications – ranging from emergency battlefield treatment to use in advanced medical facilities.”

“This closing will serve to further Aceso’s mission to develop cold plasma solutions intended for wound care, hemorrhage control, and decontamination,” said Zach Steinbock, CEO of Aceso Plasma. “We’re honored to have Stony Lonesome Group- a proven leader in early-stage defense and dual-use investments – guiding this round and supporting our development”

About Aceso Plasma Inc.

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Aceso Plasma Inc. is focused on developing cold plasma solutions for medical and decontamination applications. The company’s proprietary ACP technology is protected by multiple issued patents and designed for adoption across both civilian and defense sectors. Learn more at www.acesoplasma.com.

Important Notices: This press release is for informational purposes only and is not an advertisement, offer to sell, or solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. The Aceso Plasma medical device technology is currently in development and has not yet commenced with clinical trials. Any statements regarding potential medical applications have not been evaluated by the FDA and the technology is not yet approved for medical use.

Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding the company’s business plans, clinical development, and market opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those projected. These statements are based on current expectations and involve risks and uncertainties.

TriggerTech Acquires Hawkins Precision to Expand Product Portfolio and U.S. Manufacturing Presence

Friday, July 18th, 2025

TORONTO, July 16, 2025 – TriggerTech, a leading manufacturer of high-performance trigger systems, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Hawkins Precision, a Colorado-based manufacturer of premium precision rifle components.

The acquisition marks a significant milestone for TriggerTech, enhancing its capabilities in the precision shooting market and establishing a permanent manufacturing footprint in the United States.

“Hawkins Precision has earned a stellar reputation for engineering and manufacturing best-in-class rifle accessories, and we’re thrilled to welcome their team into the TriggerTech family,” said Bryden Richardson, CEO of TriggerTech. “This acquisition brings deep product expertise, strong customer relationships, and operational leverage that will help us serve the precision rifle community even better.”

Founded in 2011, Hawkins Precision is known for its innovative bottom metals, scope rings, magazine systems and muzzle brakes which are trusted by competitive shooters, hunters, and OEMs. The combination of TriggerTech’s patented zero-creep trigger technology and Hawkins Precision’s accessory systems will unlock opportunities for new product development and category expansion.

“We’ve long admired TriggerTech’s engineering excellence and customer-first mindset,” said Andy Hawkins, Founder of Hawkins Precision.”Joining forces allows us to accelerate growth while continuing to deliver the performance our customers expect.”

Strategic Highlights:

U.S. Manufacturing Presence: Hawkins Precision’s facility in Colorado Springs provides a strategic domestic production base to support U.S. government contracts and commercial customers.

Customer and Brand Alignment: Both companies serve leading OEMs, distributors, and performance-focused end users in overlapping channels.

Operational Leverage: The integration creates opportunities for supply chain efficiencies, shared R&D, and enhanced service levels for both brands.

Product Synergy: The acquisition expands TriggerTech’s product offering to include premium rifle accessories that are highly complementary to its core trigger systems.

Hawkins Precision will continue to operate under its existing brand, with ongoing support from Andy Hawkins, who will be staying on as the Head of Product Development, and the rest of the Hawkins leadership team to ensure continuity and customer satisfaction.

PHLSTER Now Has a CAGE Code

Friday, July 18th, 2025

We’re proud to announce that the Department of Defense has officially assigned PHLSTER Holsters a CAGE (Commercial and Government Entity) Code. This milestone enables us to better serve government agencies, law enforcement, and military customers through streamlined procurement and contracting processes.

CAGE Code: 13XU9

Whether you’re outfitting an agency or selecting gear for a unit, PHLSTER products are now easier to acquire through federal and state procurement channels.

For purchasing or contract inquiries, please visit: www.phlsterholsters.com/official-purchasing

Thank you for your continued support as we grow to meet the needs of professionals in the field.

Sentient Industries Welcomes Justin LeVrier as CEO, Showcases METEOR at Pentagon

Thursday, July 17th, 2025

Co-Inventor of METEOR Power System to Lead Company as Pentagon Showcases Innovation

WASHINGTON, July 15, 2025 — Sentient Industries is pleased to announce that Justin LeVrier has stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer, with Founder Willem Vonk continuing as President. Both LeVrier and Vonk are currently in Washington, D.C., where on July 16 they will present Sentient’s field-proven METEOR Power System at the “OUSD (R&E) Rapid Prototype Display: Multi-Domain Autonomous Solutions” at the Pentagon—a showcase of technologies developed to address evolving threats for the warfighter. This national spotlight underscores Sentient’s commitment to delivering capabilities that matter, from development to deployment.

Sentient Industries Welcomes Justin LeVrier as CEO; METEOR Power System Spotlighted at Pentagon Innovation Event

Together, LeVrier and Vonk conceptualized METEOR Power System (Modular Energy for Tactical Operations Resource) and took it from idea, to white board, to a physical field-proven power system trusted by defense and disaster response in mere months. This reflects Sentient’s hands-on approach to R&D, rapid prototyping, engineering and manufacturing.

“Being invited to present METEOR at the Pentagon is not just an honor—it’s a signal that Sentient’s rapid prototyping approach and commitment to practical solutions are delivering real value for our nation’s operators,” said Justin LeVrier, CEO. “This is exactly the type of milestone that energizes our team and inspires us to push the boundaries of what’s possible for our defense and emergency response partners.”

Justin LeVrier brings a long and diverse career spent connecting people, systems, and technology. He is recognized for his collaborative leadership style, creative problem-solving, and his ability to bring out the best in teams. Prior to joining Sentient, LeVrier served as VP of Sales at Joule Case, where he formed the go to market strategy and expanded access to advanced mobile power solutions in the burgeoning food truck market nationally. Through LeVrier, Joule Case was METEOR’s first reseller, giving him a unique perspective on point-of-need-power in both commercial and defense markets, and what it takes to move ideas from the lab into the real world. Whether leading product launches at Cardone Enterprises with Grant Cardone, building customer relationships globally with Mercedes-Benz, or mentoring the next generation of innovators at Creative Leverage, LeVrier’s focus has always been — people first.

Reflecting on the transition, LeVrier said; “Willem and I have always believed that the best solutions come from working side by side with our team, our end users, and our clients; questioning the status quo, observing, listening and taking action. I’m honored to help lead Sentient into its next chapter, and I look forward to building on the foundation we’ve created together.”

Vonk, who founded Sentient Industries, has spent his career at the intersection of human centered experiential design, engineering, advanced materials and manufacturing. Since its launch in 2021, he has built Sentient into a place where ideas are rapidly prototyped, tested, and brought to life. Throughout his career, Vonk’s out of the box thinking, technical expertise, and commitment to seeing things from a unique perspective—have shaped Sentient’s culture and the company’s approach to solving tough challenges for top tier clients.

“Justin LeVrier’s appointment as CEO marks an exciting new chapter for Sentient Industries,” said Vonk. “As Justin and I co-invented the METEOR Power System together, I’ve seen firsthand the vision and leadership he brings. His ability to unite people and ideas is exactly what Sentient needs as we expand our impact.”

“The Pentagon showcase underscores our mission: rapidly moving critical technologies from concept to deployment where they matter most. We’re proud to lead a team dedicated to innovation that supports those on the front lines.”

This leadership transition deepens Sentient Industries’ commitment to collaborative innovation, and client success. With LeVrier as CEO and Vonk as President, the company is well positioned to continue bringing game changing capabilities to market.

To learn more about Justin LeVrier and connect professionally, visit their LinkedIn profile: www.linkedin.com/in/levrier

To learn more about Sentient Industries and the METEOR Quiet Tactical Power System visit: sentient.industries

Based in Austin, Texas, Sentient Industries is the owner, designer and OEM for the METEOR Power System, and accelerates mission critical technologies through their product design, engineering, prototyping, and manufacturing services that empower clients to overcome complex challenges in defense and commercial applications.

D&M Holding Company and Ukrainian Defense Industry Announce Joint Venture to Produce Ammunition Propellant in the US

Thursday, July 17th, 2025

TAMPA, FL (July 16, 2025) – D&M Holding Company, Inc. (D&M), the global leader in delivering complete solutions for ammunition, primer, and propellant manufacturing facilities, and the Ukrainian Defense Industry Joint Stock Company (JSC) are partnering to produce specialty chemicals in the United States to address the critical shortage of propellant used in the production of ammunition for the Ukrainian defense forces.

The agreement was signed at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome on July 11 by Ukrainian Defense Industry Director General Oleh Huliak and D&M Holding Company CEO Daniel Powers in the presence of Lt. General (Ret.) Keith Kellogg – US Special Envoy to Ukraine, Ambassador Julie S. Davis – US Chargé d’Affaires to Ukraine, Lynndy Smith – Member of Ukrainian Defense Industry JSC Supervisory Board, Oleksandr Kamyshin – Advisor to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and James Jones – Executive Vice President, D&M Holding Company, Inc. Powers also spoke on a panel for defense manufacturing during the conference.

The single base propellant made in this new US-based facility will be used for artillery ammunition, including 155mm shells which are greatly needed by Ukraine in their ongoing defense against Russia.

“We have to gradually move from large-scale procurement to our own production to meet our immediate needs. It is equally important that the company will operate in a safe area. Our cooperation with American arms companies will continue in other areas,” emphasized Director General Huliak.

“This joint venture continues to build upon and further strengthen the relationship between D&M and Ukrainian state-owned enterprises with projects now in both Ukraine and the US,” said Powers.

PHOTO: Signers (seated – front row left to right)

Oleh Huliak – Director General, Ukrainian Defense Industry JSC

Daniel Powers – President & CEO, D&M Holding Company, Inc.

Witnesses (back row left to right)

Lynndy Smith – Member of Ukrainian Defense Industry JSC Supervisory Board

Oleksandr Kamyshin – Advisor to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Lt. General (Ret.) Keith Kellogg – Special Envoy for Ukraine

Ambassador Julie S. Davis – US Chargé d’Affaires to Ukraine

James Jones – Executive Vice President, D&M Holding Company, Inc.

The Wing Group Appoints Patrick Blake as Chief Operating Officer

Wednesday, July 16th, 2025

Lafayette, CA – The Wing Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Patrick Blake as Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective July 7, 2025. The Wing Group encompasses the brands Wing Inflatables, Henshaw Inflatables, Patten Company, FabTek Industries and Mustang Survival, all of which have built deep, trusted relationships with marine and aviation professionals and consumers over more than 75 years of combined experience.

As COO, Blake will work closely with President Andrew Branagh and the leadership team to strengthen operations, scale capabilities, and support the Group’s continued global expansion. He is based out of Tampa, Florida.

Blake joins the Wing Group following a distinguished 29-year career with the United States Navy, retiring at the rank of Captain. He brings extensive leadership and operational expertise, having held senior positions across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific. Most recently, he served as Commander of the Defense Logistics Agency, Indo-Pacific, where he led a team of over 1,400 personnel across nine subordinate organizations. 

From 2016 to 2018, Blake served as Commanding Officer of Naval Special Warfare Group One’s Logistics Support Unit in Coronado, during which Wing’s Combat Rubber Raiding Crafts (CRRCs) were widely adopted across the fleet—giving him direct operational familiarity with the product in the field.

“We are proud to welcome Patrick to the Wing Group,” said Andrew Branagh, President of the Wing Group. “Our organization is experiencing rapid growth, and we’re facing an exciting wave of opportunities. Patrick’s leadership, strategic mindset, and operational background make him the ideal person to help us build capacity and take the Wing Group to the next level.”

“I am honored to join the exceptional team at the Wing Group, an organization committed to designing and delivering the world’s most trusted maritime and aviation lifesaving and support equipment,” said Patrick Blake. “From defense and law enforcement to maritime search and rescue, commercial operations, and outdoor adventure, Wing’s impact spans the globe. Throughout my Navy career, I saw firsthand the critical importance of reliable, no-fail gear in high-stakes environments. I am thrilled to now support those who operate in, on, and above the water by helping ensure they are equipped with the highest quality, most trusted solutions available anywhere in the world.”

www.winggroup.com