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Appointment of General (Ret.) Marc Ollier as Deputy Delegate General for Defence as of 15 January 2026

Wednesday, January 14th, 2026

Paris, 13 January 2026 – Meeting in an extraordinary session at the end of December, the Board of Directors of GICAT (the French Land and Airland Defence and Security Industries Association) decided to select General (Ret.) Marc Ollier to ultimately assume the position of Delegate General of the Association. He will succeed General (Ret.) Jean-Marc Duquesne, who has held the post for eleven years, at the end of July 2026.

In light of the departure in mid-January of the Deputy Delegate General for Defence, Armaments Engineer General Martine Poirmeur, General Marc Ollier will serve as Deputy Delegate General for Defence from 15 January to the end of July 2026 in order to ensure the transition, fully grasp the challenges facing the land defence industrial sector, and contribute to the formation of the future management team (Defence Deputy Delegate General and Secretary General).

During this period, he will work in tandem with General Jean-Marc Duquesne to guarantee the strategic and operational continuity of GICAT until he takes up his duties as Delegate General.

BIOGRAPHY OF GENERAL (RET.) MARC OLLIER

General (Ret.) Marc Ollier served for 39 years within the French Ministry of the Armed Forces, in France and abroad, in command, staff and strategic advisory positions. Former commander of the 12th Cuirassier Regiment equipped with Leclerc tanks, Military Governor of Strasbourg and Commander of the 2nd Armoured Brigade (2018–2020), he held operational responsibilities in close contact with the armed forces, both in France and across numerous theatres of operation within NATO, European and United Nations frameworks.

With extensive experience in central administration and capability management, he contributed to the drafting of the Defence White Paper and the Military Programming Law, and led major structural reforms within the French Army, notably through the creation of the Simplification Task Force. Most recently, as Inspector of the Armed Forces (2022–2025), he supervised audits, inspections and assessments of forces engaged in overseas operations as well as joint services.

An engineer by training, a graduate of Saint-Cyr, holder of master’s degrees from the Royal Military College of Science in Shrivenham and King’s College London, and an alumnus of the Institut des Hautes Études de Défense Nationale (IHEDN), General Marc Ollier is recognised for his expertise in strategic and capability analysis, organisational transformation and risk management. These skills will be key assets in his future role as Delegate General of GICAT, supporting the development, competitiveness and international standing of the French land and airland Defence and Security industry, in the service of national industrial sovereignty.

The challenges facing the Defence industrial sector are now considerable: industrial consolidation, accelerated innovation, strengthening of sovereign capabilities and export momentum in a profoundly transformed strategic environment. More than ever, GICAT is mobilising to support its 490 member companies and to represent the Defence and Security industry to public authorities and French and international institutional partners. Marc Ollier’s operational, strategic and organisational experience will be a decisive asset in guiding the sector through this new phase of transformation and competitiveness.

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Lockheed Martin appoints Jeremy King as Chief Executive Australia and New Zealand

Tuesday, January 13th, 2026

CANBERRA, Australia, 12 January 2025 –Lockheed Martin today announced that Jeremy King, former head of Joint Aviation Systems for Defence Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, will assume the role of chief executive for Australia and New Zealand.

Following a formal transition period, Mr King will take full responsibility on 23 February 2026, succeeding Warren “Macca” McDonald, who is retiring after a distinguished tenure with the company. Mr King reports to Jay Pitman, president, Lockheed Martin International.

“Jeremy’s exceptional depth of experience in large-scale defence acquisitions, combined with his long-standing commitment to customer-centric leadership, make him the ideal candidate to drive Lockheed Martin’s growth in Australia and New Zealand,” said Mr Pitman. “His operational background – from command of the 7th Combat Service Support Battalion to managing the acquisition and sustainment of helicopters and tactical uncrewed aerial systems – gives him a unique perspective on the complex security challenges our customers face. I am confident that Jeremy will continue to strengthen our partnerships and deliver the world-class solutions that underpin our customers’ success.”

Mr King, who was commissioned into the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps in 1989, said he was honoured to join Lockheed Martin. “I have served the Australian Defence Force for more than 30 years, leading major capability programs such as the MRH-90 and Chinook projects and, most recently, heading Joint Aviation Systems,” he added. “I am eager to leverage my extensive program leadership experience and commitment to customer success in leading Lockheed Martin’s efforts in Australia and New Zealand. I look forward to strengthening our partnerships and delivering the advanced solutions our customers rely on. My focus will be on working closely with our customers, industry partners and stakeholders to ensure we deliver, sustain, and evolve the capabilities required to navigate the region’s evolving security landscape.”

About Jeremy King

Major General (Retd) Jeremy King was born in Hobart and enlisted in the Australian Army in 1989, later commissioning into the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps. Over more than 30 years of service he has held a range of leadership appointments, including troop commander in Operation BEL ISI II (Bougainville) and Operation TANAGER (East Timor), Officer Commanding the maintenance element for Chinook operations in Afghanistan, and Chief Logistics Officer for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. He commanded the 7th Combat Service Support Battalion (2012-2014) and has served as Design Engineer, Program Manager, Project Director, Director General and Divisional Head within Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG). King’s recent key appointments include Director General Army Aviation Systems Branch in CASG (2022) and Head Joint Aviation Systems (February 2023). He holds a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering (University of Tasmania, 1993), a Master of Business Administration (Deakin University) and a Master of Engineering Science (Electrical – University of New South Wales). He is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineers Australia (2015), a Chartered Engineer (2004) and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

About Lockheed Martin Australia & New Zealand

Headquartered in Canberra, Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lockheed Martin Corporation. The company employs more than 2100 people across Australia and New Zealand working on research, design, development, logistics, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services spanning the aerospace, defence and civil sectors.

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Blackhawk Wins Landmark Contract to Equip German Military with Advanced Holster System

Tuesday, January 13th, 2026

The new deal highlights the brand’s commitment to innovation and growing presence in the international defense market.

CHESAPEAKE, Va.— Blackhawk, a leader in tactical gear and carry solutions and a Revelyst Inc. brand, today announced it won the contract to supply the Bundeswehr Holster Carry System for the German armed forces. This significant win, achieved in partnership with Helmut Hofmann GmbH, highlights Blackhawk’s commitment to innovation and its growing presence in the international defense market.

“We deeply appreciate the trust placed in Blackhawk and look forward to supporting the German military with a modular system that empowers end users to carry in the way that best suits their mission.”

The Blackhawk Bundeswehr Carry System was engineered to meet the demanding requirements of the German military. The system offers unmatched versatility, allowing soldiers to carry their holster on the belt (high or low), chest or thigh. Each platform comes with quick-detach adapters and is compatible with both Blackhawk and G-Code RTI components, ensuring seamless integration with existing gear. Designed and built in the USA, this system delivers rugged reliability and mission-ready performance, born from real operational experience.

“We are honored and excited to be chosen by the Bundeswehr for this prestigious contract,” said David Hein, Vice President & General Manager, Revelyst Project Freedom, the special initiative within Revelyst that houses Blackhawk and the company’s other military, law enforcement and first-responder brands. “This opportunity is a testament to our team’s dedication to innovation and reliability. We deeply appreciate the trust placed in Blackhawk and look forward to supporting the German military with a modular system that empowers end users to carry in the way that best suits their mission. Our partnership with Helmut Hofmann has been instrumental, and we are proud to work alongside such a respected leader in the industry.”

The Blackhawk Bundeswehr Holster Carry System’s key features include four platforms for all common holster carry locations: High Ride Belt Loop, Jacket Slot Belt Loop, MOLLE/PALS Adapter and Micro Leg Platform. Quick-Detach Adapters are included with all platforms. The system is compatible with the Blackhawk QD Adapter (NSN 1005-12-381-5528) and the RTI Hanger (NSN 1005-12-400-3967).

This contract represents a significant step forward in modular carry technology for military applications. The system’s flexibility allows soldiers to maximize comfort and operational effectiveness. The collaboration between Blackhawk and Helmut Hofmann demonstrates the value of combining American engineering with German precision and logistics.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Blackhawk on delivering this advanced carry system to the Bundeswehr,” said Peter Hofmann, CEO of Helmut Hofmann. “The innovation and adaptability of this solution set a new standard for military equipment, and we are grateful for the opportunity to serve the German armed forces together. This partnership highlights the strength of international cooperation and our shared commitment to excellence.”

OMI (Outdoor Marketing International GmbH), Blackhawk’s dedicated agency in Europe, played a pivotal role in securing this contract. The company’s expertise in navigating the European defense market and strong relationships with key stakeholders were instrumental in advancing the Bundeswehr Holster Carry System project to completion. OMI’s commitment and local insight ensured that Blackhawk’s innovative solutions were positioned for success with the Bundeswehr.

“We are truly excited to partner with Blackhawk on this landmark contract for the Bundeswehr,” said Lisa Hofmann, Managing Director at OMI. “This opportunity underscores the strength of our collaboration and our shared passion for delivering best-in-class solutions to those who serve. We look forward to supporting the German armed forces and building on this success together.”

To see the Blackhawk Bundeswehr Holster Carry System in person, visit us during SHOT Show at booth 10518 on Venetian Expo Level 2. To learn more about Blackhawk or Project Freedom, contact David Hein, david.hein@revelyst.com. To learn more about Revelyst, contact Eric Smith, eric.smith@revelyst.com.

Posted in Contracts, Holsters, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Germany Buys Eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian RPA Through NSPA

Tuesday, January 13th, 2026

NSPA Supports NATO Countries in the Acquisition and Sustainment of GA-ASI’s Advanced Multi-Domain RPA

SAN DIEGO – 12 January 2026 – Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support and the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) have announced the procurement of eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). The program includes four Certifiable Ground Control Stations. First delivery is expected in 2028.

Germany joins a growing list of NATO countries that have selected GA-ASI’s advanced MQ-9B RPA for its multi-domain capabilities with exceptionally long range and endurance. The platform provides pole-to-pole satellite control and de-icing capabilities to enable missions in cold climates. SeaGuardian features two multi-mode surface-search radars that deliver wide-area maritime surveillance, with an option to add Anti-Submarine Warfare capability. Additionally, MQ-9B’s in-house-developed Detect and Avoid System aids its ability to fly in unsegregated airspace for domestic civilian operations, making it highly versatile for operations from Germany.

In 2025, MQ-9B became the first large RPA to obtain a Military Type Certificate from the UK’s Military Aviation Authority, certifying its safe operation without geographic restrictions, including over populous areas.

“We’re thrilled that Germany has joined the list of NATO countries that have selected MQ-9B SeaGuardian,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “The proliferation of MQ-9B in Europe delivers commonality between NATO countries and for Germany, it will provide opportunities for interoperability with their fleet of P-8As.”

The acquisition negotiation was executed on behalf of Germany by NSPA, which has developed a contractual framework through the MQ-9 Support Partnership (MIC SP) for supporting cooperation amongst its member nations and enabling the procurement of MQ-9B for NATO Allies and Partners. NSPA has added MQ-9B to its portfolio of defense systems to contract on behalf of NATO nations, with the goal of enhancing interoperability for joint training and operations.

“This Support Partnership demonstrates how NSPA enables efficient, effective and responsive multinational acquisitions for advanced, interoperable capabilities. We are proud to support Germany in this strategic investment for maritime surveillance and security,” said Ms. Stacy A. Cummings, NSPA General Manager.

MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian® models as well as the Protector RG Mk1 that is currently being delivered to the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF). GA-ASI also has MQ-9B procurement contracts with Belgium, Canada, Denmark, India, Japan, Poland, Taiwan and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command and is looking forward to welcoming Germany to that group. MQ-9B has also been featured in various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, RIMPAC, and Group Sail.

Posted in Contracts, International, NSPA, Press Release, UAS | No Comments »

Rheinmetall to Supply Nine State-of-the-Art Puma Training Simulators to the Bundeswehr – Order Value €118.5 Million

Monday, January 12th, 2026

Germany’s armoured infantry will soon receive nine training systems for firing and combat training (AGSP in German) for the Puma Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). The Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) has awarded a corresponding delivery contract to Projekt System & Management GmbH (PSM), a joint venture between KNDS Germany and Rheinmetall, on 19 December 2025. The total gross volume of the procurement is €119.5 million, of which €118.5 million are assigned to Rheinmetall. Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH is playing a key role as subcontractor in the project. The first firing and combat training devices are scheduled for delivery in mid-2027. Additionally, the existing AGSP development model will be upgraded to the new series standard, and transportion containers will be provided for all systems.

Rheinmetall developed the AGSP as a completely new training system for mechanised infantry forces. In September of 2025, the Office for Army Development declared its readiness to take-over the new AGSP training system.

The AGSP is a highly realistic simulator that recreates the battlefield experience for armoured infantry platoons. Its precise replication of key elements, such as vehicle logic, ballistics, haptics and aiming behaviour, enables highly realistic training in line with the ‘train as you fight’ concept.

Each system consists of a control, evaluation and monitoring station (LAKS in German) as well as of four authentically replicated vehicle cabins, which are housed in twelve 20ft containers. The facility is fully relocatable. Its modular architecture allows for maximum flexibility: all central components, such as server racks and driver cabins, are mounted on rail systems and can be easily replaced or updated as required. Maintenance and repair work have also been greatly simplified, as central systems are now accessible from the outside. This eliminates the need for costly return to the plant as well as downtime and logistical effort.

The AGSP provides comprehensive tactical training for armoured infantry troops without having to move an IFV, thereby making a significant contribution to the training of additional armoured infantry soldiers in less time and with less effort on the PUMA IFV. The AGSP has been designed to enable networking with another AGSP. This allows armoured infantry troops to train simultaneously with two AGSPs, i.e. two platoons of PUMA IFVs, or even to incorporate a compatible simulator for main battle tanks into their training. This allows armoured infantry troops to exercise mutually with main battle tanks at company level.

Posted in Armoured Vehicles, Contracts, International, Press Release, Training | No Comments »

ISI Selected to Build the National Backbone for Israel’s Space Ecosystem

Sunday, January 11th, 2026

New national space R&D lab to enable inorbit demonstrations of startup and academic payloads on ISI satellites

January 06,2026, Israel, ImageSat International (TASE: ISI), a global leader in space-based intelligence solutions, announces that the Access to Space consortium, in which ISI is a member, has been selected by the Israel Space Agency at the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and the Israel Innovation Authority to establish and operate Israel’s national R&D space laboratory for the accelerated development of space technologies.

The consortium, led by Israeli space company Creation Space and joined by leading national academic institutions, including the Technion (Israel Institute of Technology) and Ben-Gurion University, will receive approximately 16million USD in governmental participation, including around 10.5 million USD in grants, for the establishment and operation of the laboratory.

The laboratory will enable Israeli start-ups and academic institutions to conduct technological demonstrations in space, including the launch of dedicated experimental payloads on board satellites that will be supplied, integrated, launched and operated by ISI. In addition, the laboratory will provide test infrastructures, as well as professional and engineering services and regulatory support, to make advanced space experimentation accessible to a broad range of Israeli developers.

“We are proud to be a significant part of the consortium selected to enable Israel’s space capabilities to grow and to further develop Israeli technological leadership in space,” said Noam Segal, CEO of ImageSat International. “With extensive experience in delivering end-to-end satellite solutions- from design and development to integration, launch, and mission operations , ISI is uniquely positioned to provide the professional infrastructure required for such a national space laboratory, enabling Israel and additional nations to remain at the forefront of space technology.”

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release, Space | No Comments »

DroneShield Renews Support for ADF Drone Racing Team for 2026

Saturday, January 10th, 2026

7 January 2026 – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-drone technology, today announced its continued support of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Drone Racing Team for 2026.

Building on a strong partnership showcased at Avalon 2025 and in previous years, DroneShield’s involvement with the ADF Drone Racing Team extends beyond traditional sponsorship. The?collaboration has focused on sharing expertise and fostering innovation in drone operations, including initiatives such as DroneShield pilots engaging with ADF Drone Racing activities to promote skills development and knowledge exchange.

Oleg Vornik, Chief Executive of DroneShield said, “The ADF Drone Racing Team continues to set the benchmark for advanced drone operations, and we’re proud to support their journey in?2026. This collaboration is about more than racing. It’s about building the skills and technologies that will define the next generation of Defence capability.”

Wing Commander Keirin Joyce, President of the ADF Drone Racing Team said, “Our partnership with DroneShield helps drive innovation across Defence. By combining the expertise of pilots from the ADF drone racing team with cutting-edge counter-drone technology, we create a unique environment for testing, learning, and advancing Australia’s operational edge.”

Image: ADF Drone Racing Team with DroneShield team

DroneShield’s continued support underscores its commitment to advancing Australian Defence initiatives that drive innovation and technical excellence. In March 2026, the ADF Drone Racing Team will defend its world title for a sixth time at the Military International Drone Racing Tournament in Sydney, further highlighting Australia’s leadership in drone technology and operational capability.

Posted in Drone, Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

New Carbine Options for UK Firearms Units – Updated

Friday, January 9th, 2026

Over the last week several press releases have come out claiming that their company’s rifle has been selected for use United Kingdom Police Firearms Units. Since there are more than one, it has naturally led to some confusion.

The truth of the matter is that six models in 5.56mm from different manufacturers were approved for purchase in a framework which allows the the 50 individual units or so, to select the firearm from a list which they feel is best for their use.

The carbines approved are:

– KAC ~~KS-1~~ KS-3

– Glock AR

– Beretta NARC

– IWI ~~Tavor~~ ARAD

– Colt Canada C8

– FN ASR

If the individual unit would like something else, they’ll have to run their own competition.

Finally, the framework did not include optics so units will have to either adapt what they already have or purchase new models.

update – we based the list on data we had received from industry sources in the UK and updated it once we were notified the list was inaccurate. No official announcement has been made.

Posted in Contracts, International, LE, weapons | 8 Comments »