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HENSOLDT and QinetiQ Germany Expand Their Cooperation: Training for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Systems in Germany

Thursday, February 27th, 2025

Taufkirchen, 26.02.2025 – The sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT and QinetiQ Germany have strengthened their collaboration in the field of uncrewed aerial vehicles and systems, with ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH serving as the prime contractor.

This strengthened alliance supports QinetiQ’s Global Threat Representation strategy, reinforcing its reputation as a global service provider for military exercises, from operational analysis to implementing new capabilities.

The expanded partnership focuses on three key areas including:

· Capability enhancement.

· Military uncrewed aerial vehicles of category IIa.

· Training and certified testing.

This partnership builds on years of successful cooperation between, QinetiQ and HENSOLDT in Germany and Europe particularly in airborne radar systems using PC-12 test aircraft and the supply of reconnaissance technology for QinetiQ’s fleet.

With key locations in Bavaria and Schleswig-Holstein, QinetiQ and HENSOLDT are well-positioned to support the German Armed Forces and other security authorities in operating uncrewed systems.

HENSOLDT has been integrated as a certified body by the German Armed Forces Aviation Office for military uncrewed aerial vehicles of category IIa. This category encompasses drones used for flight target presentation, prototypes and system demonstrators.

HENSOLDT will also act as a recognised training and certified testing centre for remote pilots of civil uncrewed aircraft in QinetiQ’s category 2c, which includes drones that do not require prior approval. As a multi-certified body, HENSOLDT can provide comprehensive system support within this strengthened partnership.

Thorsten Heil, Head of Flight Operations at HENSOLDT in Germany, added: “As a reliable technology and innovation partner and an approved aviation company for both uncrewed and crewed aircraft, we are committed to developing specific, customer-oriented, and market-driven solutions that maintain our armed forces’ defence capabilities and enhance public safety. The intensified cooperation with QinetiQ is a critical step towards improving education and training for uncrewed aircraft and systems in Germany, contributing to the sustainable strengthening of our security.”

Matthias Grögor, Head of Strategic Business Development at QinetiQ in Germany, said:

“Through our partnership with HENSOLDT, we demonstrate a proven collaboration with the German Armed Forces and other security authorities, backed by years of successful work, particularly with the German Air Force,” Matthias said. “Together, we aim to expand our services in uncrewed systems – from development and certification to education and training, around our Bavarian location in Augsburg, helping to establish Bavaria as a leading hub for drone technology.”

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Streamlight Names Michael F. Dineen to President

Thursday, February 27th, 2025

Dineen Promoted to Head Global Flashlight Company

EAGLEVILLE, PA, February 26, 2025 – Streamlight®, Inc., a leading manufacturer of high-performance lighting, announced that it has promoted Michael F. Dineen to President. Formerly Chief Revenue Officer, Dineen succeeds Raymond L. Sharrah. Sharrah will retain the title of Chief Executive Officer while continuing to provide overall corporate executive oversight.

Dineen joined the company in 2009 as Vice President of Sales and Marketing, where he was responsible for the overall sales management and leadership of all Streamlight markets, both domestic and international, including Law Enforcement, Sporting Goods, Industrial, Military and Federal Government, Automotive, and Fire/EMS. During his tenure, he managed the company’s sales organization, which includes direct sales staff and a network of independent sales representatives and distributors, while also leading the development and execution of the company’s marketing strategy.

He was appointed Chief Revenue Officer in 2022, where he oversaw the company’s Materials and Operations departments, in addition to directing Sales and Marketing.

In his new role, Dineen will maintain his previous responsibilities as well as lead Product Management, Accounting and Finance, and IT operations.

Dineen joined Streamlight following a 17-year career with MSA Safety, a global leader in advanced safety products for markets including public safety, military and industrial, which account for a significant portion of Streamlight’s business. He served as the Director of Sales – North American First Responder Markets managing a 35-person sales organization, as well as collaborating on product development and marketing strategies for the company’s Fire Service, Law Enforcement, and Military Base markets. He formerly was Northern North America Sales Manager for the MSA Fire Service Market and held several other sales posts at the company.

“Mike’s deep understanding of our business, combined with his forward-thinking approach to leadership, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Streamlight into its next phase of growth,” said Sharrah. “During his tenures as Vice President of Sales and Marketing and as Chief Revenue Officer, he consistently demonstrated his ability to drive results, foster innovation and build strong relationships with our employees, customers, and suppliers. I am confident that he will show the same exemplary leadership as president of our company.”

Dineen holds a B.S. in Management Information Systems from Saint Joseph’s University as well as an MBA with a focus in Marketing from Seton Hall University.

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Integris and QinetiQ Collaborate on U.S. Army Helicopter Armor

Wednesday, February 26th, 2025

Integris and QinetiQ Join Forces to Enhance Survivability of Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA)

Legacy Resource for Defense Prime Contractors

25 February 2025 – Integris Composites, Inc., a global leader in armor protection for military, police and security has become a Tier 1 supplier of military helicopter armor for defense departments and prime contractors.

Integris Composites, a leading supplier of advanced armor systems, recently announced it is partnering with QinetiQ US to provide armor systems for the U.S. Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA)—the next-generation helicopter program that addresses the U.S. Army’s requirements for increased speed, range, and survivability.

“This collaboration builds upon Integris’ initial selection byBell Textron to provide armor systems for the FLRAA, further solidifying the positioning of Integris Composites in the cutting-edge military aviation sector,” said David Cordova, chief commercial officer of Integris, Inc.

ARMOR SYSTEM: Bell Textron, Inc. has selected Integris Composites to supply armor for the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA). The Bell V-280 Valor pictured here was chosen by the US Army as the winner of Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft Program. The new assault aircraft will fly twice as far and twice as fast as the current fleet.

Integris has awarded QinetiQ the contract to provide systems engineering and integration expertise for the materials technology that will be used on both the floor and wing of the advanced rotorcraft. Cordova said this is the latest collaboration in the history between QinetiQ and Integris.

The FLRAA program has entered the engineering and manufacturing development phase, with Bell reporting it has commenced detailed design work on six prototypes.

“We are extremely proud to be part of the team behind this innovative rotorcraft that is ushering in what will become the U.S. Army’s new long-range assault aircraft,” Cordova continued. The QinetiQ-Integris collaboration leverages Integris’ expertise in lightweight, fit-for-purpose composite military armor, which has been successfully applied to various aerospace projects.

Cordova said that Integris, in alignment with other industry partners, supports key program objectives, including Bell’s Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), increased survivability, and alignment with the broader Future Vertical Lift (FVL) initiative, as the FLRAA progresses toward prototype testing in 2026 and fielding by 2030.

Global Helicopter Armor Resource

“Integris is today entering its fourth decade of business as a reliable resource for major military commands as well as a robust partner of choice for the world’s top defense contractors. We are a credentialed tier one supplier to aerospace original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and prime defense contractors throughout the world,” said Cordova.

The company is supplying armor kits for the new Boeing MH-139 Grey Wolf that will replace the UH-60 Black Hawk for the U.S. Air Force. “We are part of a storied lineage that traces its roots back to the iconic Vietnam-era ‘Huey’ (UH-1 Iroquois) and present-day Black Hawk, which since 1979 has been the Army’s Utility Tactical Transport Aircraft System (UTTAS),” Cordova continued.

Integris has provided ballistic protection for various international helicopter platforms, including:

Airbus H-125 – special lightweight, high-performance kits for U.S. Customs and Border Patrol

Airbus Military – H135, NH90, H145, H225M (Super Puma), H175, and potentially the H160

Leonardo Helicopters – AW159, AW101, and AW169

Trusted Resource

In addition to armor kits for rotorcraft, the company has been contracted to support Velocity Systems, the Battelle Memorial Institute, Mack Defense, American Rheinmetall Vehicles, and the Air Force Institute of Technology.

Integris also has a strong reputation for the body armor plates that protect military personnel around the world. “We are pleased to report that our Cratus™ Wave ballistic armor, an innovative thinner and heat stress-reducing body armor insert, was ordered by the U.S. Air Force 582nd Helicopter Group.

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Blue Force Gear Earns Great Place To Work Certification

Tuesday, February 25th, 2025

POOLER, GA. – Blue Force Gear, Inc., the world leader in load carriage equipment, announces their recent achievement as a Great Place To Work certified company. This prestigious award is based entirely on what current employees say about their experience working at Blue Force Gear. The certification reflects Blue Force Gear’s success in creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and engaged in the company’s mission to provide innovative gear solutions.

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation.

“Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience,” says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasizes that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Blue Force Gear stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees.”

“This certification is a testament to our team’s dedication and the strong culture we’ve built together,” said Ashley Burnsed, President of Blue Force Gear. “Our employees are the foundation of our success, and we’re proud to have created a workplace where innovation thrives, and people genuinely enjoy coming to work each day.”

According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.

BLUE FORCE GEAR IS HIRING!

Looking to grow your career at a company that puts its people first? Visit the BFG careers page at: www.blueforcegear.com/careers

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HOIST Announces Harris Teeter Retail Expansion

Sunday, February 23rd, 2025

CINCINNATI, Ohio, (February 19, 2025) – HOIST®,the beverage industry leader known for its IV-level hydration, is proud to announce its upcoming retail expansion into American supermarket chain, Harris Teeter. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for HOIST as it continues to grow its availability in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the U.S.

Consumers can expect to find popular HOIST flavors on Harris Teeter shelves beginning in February 2025, all of which contain HOIST’s unique isotonic formula that is clinically proven to hydrate faster and longer than water. This expansion will amplify HOIST’s presence in Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and Washington, D.C.

“We’re incredibly excited to be gaining this partnership with Harris Teeter, and this is just the beginning,” said HOIST Co-founder and VP of Sales Ben Schmidt. “This marks an exciting step forward in our long-term vision for the brand. We look forward to bringing HOIST to new shelves and consumers.”

The initial wave of HOIST products will be available in select Harris Teeter locations starting in February 2025, with full store resets expected to be completed by June 2025. All of HOIST’s products provide three times the electrolytes and half the sugar of traditional sports drinks, without adding artificial sweeteners or dyes. HOIST offers this IV-level hydration across its product line of bottled beverages, powder sticks and liquid pouches.

In addition to the expansion into Harris Teeter stores, HOIST continues to grow its retail presence within QuikTrip (QT) stores. HOIST can be found QT stores in North Carolina, South Carolina and Colorado and will soon be available throughout QT stores in Georgia. This continued growth is supported by the onboarding of 40+ Anheuser-Busch distributor partners, who will help service these new accounts and ensure that HOIST is readily available to the increased consumer base.

The HOIST hydration formula is isotonic and made to absorb instantly, resulting in a beverage that fights dehydration fast. This is why HOIST is one of three electrolyte sources approved for use by the U.S. Department of Defense. The HOIST lineup is additionally offered at 90% of U.S. Army bases globally.

For more information about HOIST or to see the entire HOIST lineup visit www.drinkhoist.com. Keep up with the latest HOIST news on Instagram@drinkhoist

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Shell Shock Technologies Announces Inaugural Legends and Heroes Shootout to Benefit Veterans and First Responders

Saturday, February 22nd, 2025

MLB Stars, celebrities, and veterans unite for two days of shooting and golfing from April 27 – 28, 2025, to raise funds for K9 Heroes 4 Heroes and the NRA.

Eubank, KY (February 2025) – Shell Shock Technologies, LLC. (SST), a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, is proud to announce the 1st Annual Legends and Heroes Shootout, a premier two-day charity event dedicated to supporting veterans and first responders. Taking place on April 27 – 28, 2025, this unique event will bring together MLB stars, celebrities, industry leaders, and veterans for an unforgettable experience of camaraderie, competition, and giving back. All net proceeds from the event will benefit K9 Heroes 4 Heroes, which provides service dogs to veterans and first responders at no cost, and the NRA, offering mental health services, career transition assistance, and critical resources to veterans and their families.

“At Shell Shock Technologies, we believe in honoring those who have served our country. The Legends and Heroes Shootout is more than just a golf and shooting event – it’s a way to give back to the brave men and women who have sacrificed for our freedoms. We are excited to bring together top-tier athletes, firearms industry professionals, and the community to support this meaningful cause,” commented Peter Foss, Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies.

The Legends and Heroes Shoutout will feature two days of exciting activities, starting on April 27, 2025, with the Range Day. Taking place at Markham Park Shooting Range in Sunrise, Florida, from 10 am to 3 pm, participants will have the opportunity to engage in dynamic shooting competitions using Shell Tech’s cutting-edge precision pistol and rifle ammunition. Instruction will be led by Jake Holt, a well-known firearms social media influencer from Regional Operations. Desert Tech, a Shooting Range Event Partner, will be providing a rifle demonstration featuring its latest innovative and custom weaponry. Competition prizes will be awarded from Four Brothers Custom Gun Holsters and Heritage Distilling Company. The overall winner of the shooting competition will win the Grand Prize which is an automatic entry into the NRA World Shooting Championship, where over 500 of the world’s top shooters compete for cash and prizes totaling over $250,000.

The second day, April 28, 2025, focuses on the charity golf tournament at The Club at Weston Hills in Weston, Florida. This tournament will feature a scramble-style format with multiple contests and challenges, including four separate hole-in-one contests with total prizes valued at $55,000, and a unique AR-15-style golf ball launcher experience. Participants can use this innovative launcher to tee off on a select Par 4, adding something different to the competition. The tournament will conclude with an outdoor grill lunch, an open bar, and an awards ceremony as well as an online auction to feature exclusive memorabilia and sponsor-donated items. There will also be a Whiskey Tasting featuring Service to America SALUTE™: War Dogs™ Edition, Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey by Heritage Distilling Co. Inc. This “Whiskey That Honors the Worthy”™, aged 5-years (35 in dog years) and bottled at 98.6 proof, honors our US Military Working Dogs.

A lineup of renowned athletes and celebrities have come together to support the mission of assisting veterans and first responders. Whether by attending the event in person or donating exclusive memorabilia, these generous individuals are committed to making a difference:

Adrian Beltre – MLB Hall of Famer

Raul Ibanez – World Series Champion

Jayson Werth – World Series Champion

Placido Polanco – MLB Gold Glove Winner

Albert Pujols – Two-Time World Series Champion & Three-Time MVP

Max Scherzer – Three-Time Cy Young Award Winner & World Series Champion

DJ Irie – Internationally Recognized DJ and Philanthropist

Their participation not only enhances the event’s prestige but also helps raise vital funds for those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedoms.

Sponsorship opportunities are available, offering high-impact brand exposure and networking opportunities, from Gold to Premier level, as well as several Golf Specific Sponsorship options. For those interested in participating, more information can be found here. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, participant registration, or general inquiries, please contact Foss at peter@shellshocktech.com.

Keep up with Shell Tech’s advanced ammunition on the website and social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

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Wiley X Strengthens Sales Leadership with Key Hires Across Outdoor and Optical Divisions

Friday, February 21st, 2025

FRISCO, Texas (Feb. 19, 2025) – Wiley X, a global leader and pioneer in premium protective eyewear, has expanded its sales leadership team with the addition of three seasoned executives: Seth Quackenbush as Director of Sales for the Outdoor Division, Jack Schindler as National Sales Manager for the Outdoor Division, and Johnathan Weikum as Director of Sales for the Optical Division. These strategic hires underscore Wiley X’s commitment to enhancing its presence in key markets and providing exceptional service to its retail partners and customers.

With over 20 years of experience growing renowned brands such as Ride, Fjällräven, and Stanley, Seth Quackenbush brings a deep understanding of the outdoor industry. His leadership at Stanley played a pivotal role in the brand’s recent success, and he is now focused on strengthening Wiley X’s partnerships to elevate the brand’s impact in the outdoor market.

“I am honored to join the world-class team at Wiley X,” said Quackenbush. “Wiley X is a truly authentic brand with industry-leading products and a deep legacy that is second to none. I’m excited to collaborate with our internal team, reps, and retail partners to expand our presence in the outdoor market.”

In his new role as National Sales Manager for Wiley X’s Outdoor Division, Schindler also brings over 20 years of experience driving revenue and brand development for industry leaders. His previous experience includes stints at O’Neill, C1RCA, and Adio Footwear. He has a proven track record of exceeding sales targets and fostering long-term client relationships. Schindler’s entrepreneurial background and deep understanding of the action sports and outdoor markets make him a key asset to the Wiley X team.

“As a veteran-founded and family-owned company, Wiley X embodies a commitment to excellence that aligns with my principles,” says Jack Schindler. “I look forward to helping grow the outdoor division and contributing to the company’s continued success.”

Wiley X has also welcomed Johnathan Weikum as Director of Sales for the Optical Division.

With extensive experience in the eyewear industry, Weikum played a key role in launching and expanding Costa’s Optical and Sunglass Specialty Channel, driving the growth of its 580 Rx Authentic lens program and leading national sales initiatives. He later spearheaded strategic partnerships for Costa and Oakley, driving business development and fostering relationships with industry leaders. Recognized for his excellence, he earned Gold and Silver Presidents Circle Awards at Essilor Luxottica for top-tier sales performance.

“I am honored to leverage Wiley X’s legacy as a leader in premium protective eyewear,” said Weikum. “My goal is to create, design, and implement a comprehensive approach that prioritizes patient care, fosters long standing partnerships within the optical industry, and enhances customer engagement. By delivering superior optics and exceptional customer service, we strive to meet the diverse needs of professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyday consumers. Collaborating with Aaron Quigley and the executive team to revolutionize the optical channel with an innovative salesforce strategy is incredibly exciting.”

For more information, or for dealer inquiries, please contact Wiley X Customer Service at (800) 776-7842 to be put in touch with the sales representative for your area.

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Quantum Systems Establishes New Leadership to Drive Global Growth and Product Excellence

Friday, February 21st, 2025

Gilching, February 19th, 2025 – Quantum Systems, Europe’s leading innovator in drone technology providing aerial intelligence for both government and commercial clients, announces a new executive leadership structure designed to elevate its growth ambition and technological excellence.

Effective January, company Co-Founder and CEO Florian Seibel transitioned to a Co-CEO role alongside Sven Kruck, who has served as Chief Revenue Officer and Managing Director since joining the company in December 2022. This change underscores Quantum Systems’ strategic focus on aligning visionary product development with robust operational leadership. Florian Seibel will focus on products, technology and strategy, while Sven Kruck will focus on operations, sales and finance.

As part of this transition, Frank Thieser, Chief Financial Officer since 2020, resigns from active management and takes on the role of Senior Advisor to Florian Seibel. Jonas Jarosch, who joined the company in autumn 2024 as Director of Finance, will succeed Frank Thieser as CFO, bringing expertise in financial strategy and operational excellence.

At the same time, Quantum Systems also announces the appointment of Martin Karkour as the new Chief Sales Officer (CSO) at Quantum Systems. He succeeds Sven Kruck, effective February 15th, 2025.

Since founding Quantum Systems a decade ago, Florian Seibel has led its transformation from a startup to a global enterprise with over 400 employees across five countries. Seibel commented:

“I want to dedicate more time to what I do best: Tech, Product & Strategy, and building outstanding teams. That is my real superpower and by the way the foundation of every successful tech startup. You can’t build a company without a product. It’s all about the product. I feel truly fortunate to share the helm with Sven as my Co-CEO.”

Sven Kruck has played a pivotal role in driving the company’s revenue growth and operational efficiency. Reflecting on his journey, Kruck noted:

“I was fortunate to have been at the forefront of Quantum Systems’ revenue and operational growth in my role as Managing Director and CRO. Our focus on manufacturing process improvement and fostering international collaboration has created a dynamic environment driven by innovation and excellence. I am honored to partner with Florian as Co-CEO to shape the future of UAV technology and look forward to dedicating my energy to develop Quantum Systems into a global champion.”

These changes position Quantum Systems to further solidify its position as a global innovator in UAV technology, with a strong commitment to advancing cutting-edge solutions for its clients worldwide.

quantum-systems.com

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