TYR Tactical

Archive for the ‘Industry’ Category

Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM) Celebrate Two Decades of Innovation in Public Marketing and Communications

Monday, August 7th, 2023

Saint Augustine, Fla. (August 2023) – Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM) celebrates 20 years as the public relations and marketing communications firm of choice for law enforcement, public safety, military, outdoor, shooting sports, hunting, and forensic markets. Since its inception in 2003, LBM has established itself as a reliable and trustworthy partner, consistently delivering exceptional results and driving growth and brand awareness for its esteemed clientele.

Over the past two decades, LBM has continuously evolved, adapting to the dynamic landscape of the marketing world. Founded by firearms industry veteran Laura Burgess in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the company has grown to be a widely recognized and respected agency in the firearms, tactical, shooting sports, outdoor, military, and law enforcement markets. The company relocated to New Bern, North Carolina in the summer of 2010, and then again to its current location in Saint Augustine, Florida in the fall of 2020. Ashley Burgess Gall joined the company in 2009 as one of the first pioneers of social media marketing within this industry, introducing large firms such as SIG SAUER and BLACKHAWK! to Facebook. Today, this mother-daughter duo continues to champion its clients through its top-notch marketing and public relations solutions.

“Reaching the twenty-year mark is a significant accomplishment for our agency,” said Laura Burgess, Founder and President of LBM. “We owe our success to our loyal clients and industry partners who have supported us throughout this incredible journey. As we celebrate this milestone, we are also looking forward to the next chapter, continuing to innovate and exceed expectations in the years to come.”

To commemorate this momentous occasion, LBM will unveil a special blog series interviewing its founder, Laura Burgess, on varying topics, including her business, industry trends, and more. The first part of the series will be released on its blog on Aug. 10, 2023.

LBM currently offers a full range of public relations and marketing communications services as part of its retainer program, including, but not limited to, press release writing and distribution, public and writer relations, editorial placement, product placement, digital marketing, content marketing, news wire services, social media management, influencer programs, advertising strategies, media scheduling and buying, corporate communications, and event planning. The goal of LBM has always been to service and propel the brands of small to medium-sized businesses who often either do not have the budget, time, or marketing expertise. With over 40 combined years of experience in marketing, corporate management, and public relations, LBM helps companies build better brand awareness to the media and their customers through traditional and emerging media methods.

LBM also offers a la carte services to companies who may not need a PR Agency on retainer, such as the popular LBM PR Wire. For a small fee, companies can utilize the LBM team to write and distribute one press release to LBM’s proprietary and web-based subscription databases. LBM also offers PR Bundle packages where the more PRs that are purchased, the more the client saves.

As LBM looks ahead to the future, the agency remains steadfast in its mission to be a driving force for positive change in the marketing industry, embracing emerging technologies and trends while staying true to its core values of integrity, creativity, and exceptional service.

Looking to learn more about LBM’s bundle of services for your company? Reach out to ashley@lauraburgess.com or call 603-682-3316.

For more information on Laura Burgess Marketing, please visit www.lauraburgess.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter.

SOFWERX – Small Business Boot Camp

Monday, August 7th, 2023

SOFWERX, in coordination with the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP), will provide a forum 12-14 September 2023, for Small Businesses with technologies that support National Security Interests and/or the USSOCOM technology interest areas to learn more about doing business with USSOCOM. Additionally, the event will provide an opportunity for Small Business engagement with government stakeholders, investors, and prime contractors in the form of “Speed Dating” and a “Pitch Day.”

Day 1: Presenters will provide an overview of USSOCOM as well as information on the basic components and requirements of working with the Department of Defense, and how to engage with USSOCOM.  In addition, there will be briefings from external support organizations and mechanisms that can help you to prepare and scale your business. Additionally, we will provide a forum for Small Businesses to engage with government stakeholders and investors in the form of “Speed Dating.”

Day 2: The second day will consist of more presentations, as well as another “Speed Dating” session between Small Businesses and Prime Contractors. 

Day 3: The third and final day will consist of more presentations, as well as a VC panel with a Q&A session. Finally, there will also be an opportunity for investors to engage with and receive pitches from USSOCOM SBIR/STTR Phase II awardees.

The OSBP is dedicated to helping you and your business. They will explain known requirements, help you understand who buys what within the Command, and can assist you in locating other likely markets within DoD and developing strategies for accessing those markets. They provide information and guidance on defense procurement policies and procedures as well as methods for identifying prime contracting and subcontracting opportunities.

Request to Attend NLT 21 August 11:59 PM ET.

Details at events.sofwerx.org/sbbc3.

SLG2, Inc Remains at the Forefront of Safety: A Look at the Q2 Report

Sunday, August 6th, 2023

ATHENS, Ala. – August 1, 2023 – SLG2, Inc. has officially released its impressive 2023 2nd quarter report, showing they continue to make lifelong impacts on the shooting industry with new brand extensions, the 15-year expansion tour, and more. The company remains dedicated to empowering individuals and families to build confidence, enhance their shooting skills and prioritize safety.

“With a strong emphasis on public safety initiatives, we’re proud of the impact we’ve made throughout this past quarter,” said Karen Butler, founder and president of SLG2, Inc. “The Shoot Like A Girl and Safe LivinG trailers continue to pioneer firearm and community safety nationwide. We are excited to keep connecting with both new and seasoned firearm owners, fostering further discussions on safety and empowerment.”

Throughout the 2nd quarter, SLG2, Inc. took its mission nationwide, reaching nearly 2,000 registered guests and an estimated 90,000 attendees at events, along with hosting two turkey hunts. The company’s efforts have been instrumental in promoting safety within communities.

SLG2, Inc. recently debuted the Excellence in Safety Award, honoring companies that prioritize safety and produce secure products. The award, symbolized by a cut crystal trophy featuring the Safe LivinG logo, underscores the significance of always prioritizing safety. Ruger was the recipient of the 2nd Quarter award, having demonstrated exceptional commitment to the shared mission.

The 15-year Expansion Tour created a transformative impact on guests’ attitudes towards firearms in this quarter. Approximately 28% of guests exhibited improved attitudes, while 68% already held a positive view of firearms. 31% of guests were inspired to recruit others to explore shooting sports after the experience.

“This was such a positive experience for me. It gave me self-confidence and appreciation of the outdoors and hunting. The women I met where so encouraging, patient and kind,” said one turkey hunt guest. “I left there not only loving the total experience, but I learned how to love myself.”

As SLG2, Inc. reflects on this impactful quarter, these impressive numbers and events were made possible by the overwhelming support from its industry partners and the amazing guests that choose to participate. The team continues to foster a love for the shooting and keeping themselves and others safe through education and empowerment as they look towards the next quarter and beyond.

Rheinmetall Completes Acquisition of Spanish Defence Contractor Expal Systems: Move Significantly Expands the Group’s Ammunition Production Capacity

Thursday, August 3rd, 2023

Rheinmetall AG has completed its takeover of all shares in Expal Systems S.A.U. of Madrid. First announced last November, the acquisition follows final approval by the relevant authorities. The transfer of Expal S.A.U.’s business activities to Rheinmetall took place on 1 August 2023. Rheinmetall thus continues to expand its position as an important supplier for NATO armed forces, systematically increasing its production capacity especially for artillery, mortar, and medium-calibre ammunition.

The purchase price for the takeover of Expal Systems S.A.U., a world-renowned ammunition and armament manufacturer, is about €1.2 billion. Moving forward, the company will operate under the name “Rheinmetall Expal Munitions S.A.U.”.

In a fast-growing market driven by increased demand for military equipment in countries around the globe, the acquisition provides Rheinmetall with swift access to greater production capacity, covering the entire ammunition production value-added chain, with multiple plants in Spain and a demilitarization and soil remediation business in the United States.

In this market environment Rheinmetall is an important supplier to the Ukrainian armed forces with large amounts of medium- and large-calibre ammunition, including 20mm automatic cannon rounds for the Marder infantry fighting vehicle, and 105mm and 120mm tank ammunition for the Leopard 1 and Leopard 2. In addition, a first lot of 35mm ammunition for the Gepard anti-aircraft tank will soon be ready for shipment.

In acquiring Expal, Rheinmetall aims to secure and strengthen its core business in weapons, ammunition and propellants. The current Expal Systems product portfolio encompasses artillery ammunition, mortar and medium-calibre rounds as well as fuses and rocket propulsion systems. In many cases, Expal’s ammunition are “full shot” products, from propellant to fuse. Due to partly complementary product ranges, the acquisition significantly strengthens Rheinmetall’s existing product portfolio.

Given the likelihood of strong future demand in many countries, the acquisition places Rheinmetall in a favourable position to respond to complex new ammunition procurement requirements.

Enhancing its direct access to this important market, the acquisition expands Rheinmetall’s footprint in Spain, where the Group already has an automotive engineering plant in Abadiano. Rheinmetall Expal Munitions will continue to serve the Spanish armed forces as a preferential and key partner, offering its products, technology and industrial capabilities.

Rheinmetall sees maintaining the company’s existing technology and staff as essential; all locations (Madrid, Trubia, Burgos, Navalmoral, El Gordo, Albacete and Murcia in Spain as well as Texarkana in the USA) are therefore to remain fully operational, with further expansions planned.

Rheinmetall is very pleased to be welcoming a new company to the Group, and especially to be augmenting its workforce with highly skilled new staff. Reinforced by Rheinmetall Expal Munitions, the Group will continue contributing to global security, meeting the needs of a fast-growing market.

NIOA Ballistics Testing Tech a Gamechanger

Thursday, August 3rd, 2023

Cutting edge ballistics data acquisition technology, capable of measuring real-time projectile velocity and location will be a gamechanger in weapon and ammunition performance testing, says NIOA’s top engineer.

Rudi Bekker, NIOA Australia’s General Manager – Engineering, said the newly installed MS Instruments Projectile Velocity Measurement System (MSI PVMS) at the company’s Brisbane range facility took accuracy diagnostics to the next level.

“This is a game changer to our stronghold arsenal of NIOA Test & Evaluation expertise capability,” he said.

“The ballistic instrumentation records highly accurate data with an integrated software system, providing acoustic and optical target system outputs that are precise, and a cost and time effective way of measuring weapon and ammunition accuracy.

“The equipment is versatile and can be used within the NIOA 100m in-door range; as well as being deployable to external ranges operating in any weather conditions.”

The MSI PVMS is the latest addition of specialist equipment at NIOA’s world-class weapons, firearms and munitions testing complex.

The fully instrumented range, which opened in 2014, is the only indoor 100m range in Australia rated for the firing and data acquisition of small arms through to medium calibre cannons up to 40mm.

It has had an intensive workout during NIOA’s delivery of the LAND 159 Tranche 1 Lethality Systems Program which includes the latest sniper and close combat weapon systems for use by the Australian Defence Force.

NIOA Australia and New Zealand CEO Ben James said: “This technology is another example of NIOA’s investment in domestic capability to ensure we stay at the forefront of innovation.

“By embracing the most advanced technology we are enhancing Australia’s sovereign capability which ultimately supports national security in an increasingly complex threat landscape.”

Edgar Brothers Announces Partnership with Sentinel Photonics as the Exclusive UK Distributor

Wednesday, August 2nd, 2023

Macclesfield, UK, 1st August 2023. Edgar Brothers is pleased to announce its partnership with Sentinel Photonics as the exclusive and sole distributor for all Sentinel Photonics products within the UK MOD and Police Markets. This exclusive collaboration underlines Edgar Brothers’ commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions to its customers.

Sentinel Photonics has been rapidly emerging as a market leader in the Laser Detection and Protection industry. Their revolutionary products, including FROST, LASERD® MAX, and LASERD® MICRO, have garnered significant attention for their exceptional performance and innovative design.

FROST is a series of protective filters specifically designed to be attached to the objective lens of optics. Protecting personnel by eliminating the risk of detection by laser retroflection and enhancing signature management. By offering advanced protection, these filters greatly enhance the safety and efficiency of Users operating in challenging environments.

LASERD® MAX is a comprehensive laser detection and intelligence gathering system that effectively tackles a wide range of real-world threats by establishing a laser intelligence picture of the battlespace or chosen environment. Its high-performance capabilities make it an essential tool for organisations operating in laser-prone environments.

Additionally, LASERD® MICRO, a compact body worn laser threat detector, provides enhanced security by alerting Users to the presence of pulsed laser radiation typically associated with laser designators and rangefinders.

Mike Newman, Director of Edgar Brothers expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “Having collaborated with Sentinel for several months, we firmly believe that their innovative solutions in the laser detection and protection markets will be game-changing for our customer base. Our ability to expedite the product to market will be a significant advantage for our End-Users, who will ultimately benefit from these exceptional products.”

U.S. Air Force And Archer Enter Into Contracts Worth Up To $142 Million Representing Landmark Investment In EVTOL Technology By U.S. Military

Tuesday, August 1st, 2023

• Archer has been partnering with the Department of Defense (DoD) since 2021 on a series of projects through the Air Force’s AFWERX program with the goal of helping the AFWERX Agility Prime program assess the transformational potential of the vertical flight market and eVTOL technologies for DoD purposes

• This new execution phase of the partnership includes the delivery of up to 6 of Archer’s Midnight aircraft, which the Air Force is targeting for use in personnel transport and logistics support, rescue operations and more

• This expansion of Archer’s partnership with the DoD represents a significant investment in the future of the country and will help ensure the U.S. maintains its leadership position in aviation

• The other military branches have the opportunity to leverage these contracts as a platform for additional projects, which could increase the total value of Archer’s DoD partnership

SANTA CLARA, CA, – Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE: ACHR), a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, today announced that it has significantly expanded its partnership with the DoD by signing new contracts with the U.S. Air Force with a total value of up to $142 million. The new contracts signal the U.S. military’s recognition of the transformative potential Archer’s innovative eVTOL aircraft brings to our country’s Armed Forces. This new execution phase of the partnership includes the delivery of up to six of Archer’s Midnight aircraft to the Air Force, the sharing of additional flight test data and certification related test reports, pilot training, and the development of maintenance and repair operations. As a result of these contracts, Archer will create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America.

Archer has been partnering with the DoD since 2021 on a series of projects through the U.S. Air Force’s AFWERX program with the goal of helping the AFWERX Agility Prime program assess the transformational potential of the vertical flight market and eVTOL technologies for DoD purposes. Now, with Archer recently completing the manufacturing of its first Midnight aircraft, the DoD recognizes that with its vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, target payload of approximately 1,000lbs, proprietary electric powertrain system, and low noise profile, Archer’s aircraft represents a potential paradigm shift in military aviation and operations. These aircraft hold the promise of enhancing rapid response, agility, and operational effectiveness across a wide range of mission profiles, from personnel transport and logistics support to rescue operations and more. Archer’s Midnight aircraft are expected to provide a much safer and quieter alternative to helicopters while being more cost-effective for the U.S. military to transport, operate and maintain in the field.

“This historic agreement reflects the steadfast commitment by our Armed Forces to embrace the cutting-edge technology our eVTOL aircraft offer,” said Adam Goldstein, Archer’s Founder and CEO. “It’s clear that the development and commercialization of eVTOL technology continues to remain a national priority. We look forward to working closely with the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Air Force to integrate Midnight into their operational fleet with a focus on transport, logistics and rescue operations.”

“It is our mission to ensure the U.S. continues to lead the world in developing and deploying emerging aerospace technology,” said Colonel Tom Meagher, the lead for AFWERX Agility Prime programs. “eVTOL aircraft represent the cusp of the third revolution in aerospace, and these aircraft and their descendents will drive advances in capabilities and efficiency. Our contracts with Archer Aviation provide the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. Air Force the opportunity to play a role in ensuring from the onset, and as the technology evolves, that we unlock the many benefits these aircraft have to offer the U.S. military.”

“As a retired senior military leader who was responsible for U.S. forces, operations and activities throughout the continent of Africa, I’m thrilled with this agreement and its potential impact on the capabilities of our Armed Forces,” said Retired 4-Star General and Archer Government Services Advisory Board Member, Steve Townsend. “The United States has always been at the forefront of technological innovation, and this partnership demonstrates our nation’s commitment to maintain that position. I commend the visionary leadership at DoD which led to this contract and Archer’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of aviation technology.”

This announcement comes on the heels of Archer announcing the formation of the company’s Government Services Advisory Board in May. The goal of the advisory board is to allow Archer to more fully engage with U.S. government and public safety agencies to explore opportunities to commercialize its eVTOL aircraft. The members of this advisory board are assisting and facilitating Archer’s direct engagement with appropriate government agencies and officials to advance both consideration and implementation of Archer’s eVTOL aircraft and related technologies. The board includes Retired 4-star General Steve Townsend, Retired 3-star Lieutenant General David A. Krumm, Retired 3-star Vice Admiral Ron Boxall, Retired 2-star General Clayton M. Hutmacher, Retired 2-star General Bill Gayler, and Retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Michael J. Durant. 

SIG SAUER Statement on Montville, CT Police Department Incident

Tuesday, August 1st, 2023

NEWINGTON, N.H., (July 31, 2023): SIG SAUER has the following statement relative to a reported unintentional discharge from an officer at the Montville, CT Police Department on Monday, July 24, 2023:

“We have seen the news reporting of the incident involving a P320 discharge at the Montville (CT) Police Department.  We are confident, as is the case in all instances, that when the factors and evidence are reviewed this will be proven to be an unintentional discharge as a result of inadvertent contact with the trigger, and that the pistol did not fire without a trigger pull.

In reviewing the video footage of this incident currently available, it appears that the involved firearm was not fully seated in its holster and the holster retention hood was not fully closed over the pistol at the time of discharge (images below).  This improperly holstered condition would have left the firearm’s trigger exposed and vulnerable to actuation.  Even if properly holstered, the features of the involved holster allow for foreign object intrusion and interaction with the trigger, as has been seen in other incidents. 

We regret that the involved agency jumped to conclusions regarding the cause of this discharge without first carefully examining the footage of the incident and providing SIG SAUER with an opportunity to assist in the examination of the involved firearm.

The P320 model firearm is used effectively and safely every day, by both civilians and armed professionals.  Despite years of litigation and extensive discovery, no one has ever been able to replicate a condition under which the P320 could discharge without a trigger pull, and experts who have attempted to assert such a claim have been repeatedly thrown out of court as unqualified and/or unreliable.  Three separate federal courts (in the matters of Frankenberry v. SIG SAUER, Mayes v. SIG SAUER, and Hilton v. SIG SAUER) have concluded that the two experts who have proffered a theory of uncommanded discharge are unfit to testify in court because they are unqualified and/or their opinions are untested and unreliable.  In the only case regarding a P320 discharge to proceed to a full trial (Guay v. SIG SAUER), a jury of 12 rejected these experts’ unproven and unscientific theory, and found unanimously in favor of SIG SAUER.  SIG SAUER stands behind the proven safety and reliability of the P320.”