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Archive for the ‘International’ Category

Extrema Ratio – Vipera Total Black M390

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

The Vipera takes its DNA from Extrema Ratio’s Requiem and Mamba models, combing their tactical and survival qualities into a single, streamlined fixed blade.

Weighing just 3.5 oz, it features a flat grind, elongated drop point blade and a Forprene handle with guard for slip-free grip. I measures it at just over 9″ overall, with a 4.25″ blade.

It is available in two different steels. This is the M390 (61 HRC) with a blued blade, but it’s also available in Nitrogen steel in Ranger Green, Black, and HCS.

The ASPIS sheath (nylon) can be attached to belts, backpacks, or PALs.

Learn more at extremaratio.com/prodotto/vipera-total-black-m390.

Rheinmetall Expands Local Production in Romania and Strengthens the Romanian Defence Industry – Focus on Ammunition and Lynx Infantry Fighting Vehicle

Wednesday, July 30th, 2025

Rheinmetall has founded a comprehensive local production network in Romania, which includes both its own companies in the country and new partnerships with Romanian companies. The technology corporation is thereby expanding both, its presence in Romania and its status as a leading manufacturer and service provider for the Romanian armed forces. The provision of advanced turnkey solutions for the production of infantry fighting vehicles, ammunition and powder, as well as state-of-the-art training services, ought to strengthen the Romanian defence industry in the long term. The network includes Rheinmetall Automecanica, further local Rheinmetall activities as well as a new centre of excellence for training and further education.

A cornerstone of Rheinmetall’s localisation efforts is the cooperation with key Romanian companies, including among others Uzina Automecanica Moreni, Interactive Software SRL and MarcTel-SIT. These partnerships will promote local procurement and assembly processes, and will foster the integration of Romanian expertise into the production chain.

The initiative focuses on local production of the Lynx infantry fighting vehicle at Rheinmetall Automecanica, with a robust supply chain and a reduced dependency on external suppliers. Rheinmetall Munitions Romania will manufacture medium-calibre ammunition for infantry fighting vehicles and air defence, while Victoria Explosive Powder Factory will produce the propellants, for which Rheinmetall is providing expertise and technology for a propylene plant. Local service facilities will be responsible for the ongoing maintenance and support for military equipment, thus always ensuring operational readiness.

The Rheinmetall Excellence Centre in Romania is to ensure the transfer of critical know-how to the local workforce. Equipped with cutting-edge simulators and comprehensive training programmes, the centre will provide Romanian employees with practical experience and technical expertise in the operation, maintenance and development of advanced defence technologies, particularly in relation to the Lynx infantry fighting vehicle.

Rheinmetall’s investment in local production will make a significant contribution to the Romanian economy by creating hundreds of jobs in various sectors, including manufacturing, engineering and technical services. Cooperation with Romanian companies will also boost local supply chains, create additional business opportunities and promote industrial growth.

With this strategic initiative, Rheinmetall Automecanica is not only improving Romania’s defence capabilities, but also laying the foundation for a sustainable and independent defence industry. By integrating advanced technologies and training, Rheinmetall is ensuring the future viability of Romania’s defence sector while further expanding its own global production network.

Saab Receives Order for Mobile Air Defence from the Czech Republic

Friday, July 25th, 2025

Saab has received an order for its Mobile Air Defence (MSHORAD) solution from the Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces of the Czech Republic. The order value is SEK 1.8 billion and deliveries will take place 2028-2030.

The order includes Saab’s mobile firing units based on the RBS 70 NG short range missile system along with its Bolide missiles. Saab will integrate the MSHORAD solution onto the MARS S-330 vehicle, manufactured by the Czech company SVOS.

The MSHORAD solution will include a command-and-control system delivered by a Czech partner together with Saab, as well as a third-party radar solution already in operation with the Czech Armed Forces.

“We are proud to continue supporting the Czech Armed Forces’ capability, who already operate our RBS 70 NG air defence system in its man-portable setup.

Our MSHORAD solution complements this with a highly mobile configuration, providing additional protection for troops on the move,” says Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s business area Dynamics.

MSHORAD is Saab’s vehicle-integrated mobile air defence solution. It is modular and flexible and consists of radar units for detection, firing units for enemy engagement, connected with a command-and-control system. Saab can deliver everything from a complete turnkey MSHORAD solution, to selected modules and integration alongside customers’ existing equipment.

Saab is a leading defence and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 25,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defence capability of several nations.

German Bundeswehr Selects CZ P-10 F as New Sidearm

Friday, July 25th, 2025

Reports indicate that the German Bundeswehr recently selected the CZ P-10 F as their new standard-issue sidearm after a competition conducted by Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw).

The new pistol which beat out the Arex Delta and GLOCK G17 will replace the Heckler & Koch P8 (based on the USP) and be designated as the P13.

The contract promises a minimum order of 62,000 pistols with a ceiling of up to 186,000 total pistols. A €25 million budget for the procurement has been submitted to the Bundestag.

Denmark Buys Four MQ-9B SkyGuardians from GA-ASI

Thursday, July 24th, 2025

NSPA Supports Denmark and European Countries in MQ-9B Acquisition and Sustainment

SAN DIEGO – 23 July 2025 – Denmark and the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) have announced the procurement of four MQ-9B SkyGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. The purchase includes three Certified Ground Control Stations.

Denmark joins a growing list of European countries that have selected MQ-9B 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 the harsh conditions of the Arctic in support of Denmark and its NATO Allies. Additionally, MQ-9B’s in-house-developed Detect and Avoid System aids MQ-9B’s ability to fly in unsegregated airspace for domestic civilian operations, making it highly versatile for operations from Denmark.

MQ-9B recently became the first large remotely piloted aircraft to obtain a Military Type Certificate (MTC) from the UK’s Military Aviation Authority, certifying its safe operation without geographic restrictions, including over populous areas.

“It’s been a very productive year for our MQ-9B platforms,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “First, we earned MTC and now we’ve added Denmark to the U.K., Belgium, and Poland as MQ-9B customers in Europe. I believe the extensive waters of the North Sea, Norwegian Sea, and Baltic Sea of the Nordic countries make the MQ-9B a very effective tool for national maritime surveillance and security.”

MQ-9B SkyGuardian is the first and only unmanned system to offer multi-domain Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Targeting (ISR&T) as an internal payload that can search the ocean’s surface and its depths in support of Fleet Operations. MQ-9B can also be fitted with a number of payloads including a maritime surveillance package with a 360-degree maritime radar and/or sonobuoy dispensing pods.

This sale was aided and supported by NSPA, which has developed a contractual framework for supporting cooperation amongst its member nations and promoting the proliferation of MQ-9B in Europe. NSPA has added MQ-9B to its portfolio of defense systems to contract on behalf of European nations, with the goal of enhancing interoperability while facilitating training and joint operations.

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

DroneShield – Australia LAND 156 Initial Contracts Announcement

Thursday, July 24th, 2025
  • Hon Pat Conroy, Minister for Defence Industry, has today announced the initial LAND 156 contract awards
  • DroneShield has received approximately $5 million in orders, of $16.9 million total

DroneShield (ASX:DRO) is pleased to share the announcement by the Hon Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Defence Industry, regarding the award of a contract under Project LAND 156 to supply handheld counter-drone equipment to the Australian Defence Force.

DroneShield was awarded approximately $5 million of a $16.9 million in contracts (across 11 vendors, including 5 Australian Companies).

The contract involves the provision of portable drone detection and defeat systems designed to support ADF personnel in identifying and mitigating unmanned aerial threats. This procurement forms part of the Commonwealth’s broader initiative to accelerate the acquisition of counter-drone capabilities.

DroneShield will deliver equipment in accordance with the contract terms and project timelines.

In addition to this equipment delivery, DroneShield stands ready to support the ADF as Systems Integration Partner under the broader LAND 156 program. With deep expertise in sensor fusion, electronic warfare, and command-and-control integration, DroneShield is well positioned to contribute to the development of scalable, interoperable counter-drone architectures that meet Defence’s evolving operational requirements.


Image: Minister Conroy’s LAND 156 announcement

Hon Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Defence Industry, has commented, ”Australian industry is critical to delivering this technology, and they are demonstrating world leading innovation while creating Australian jobs.”

“We welcome the opportunity to support the Australian Defence Force through Project LAND 156. This contract reflects the growing operational need for portable counter-drone capabilities and DroneShield’s continued role in delivering solutions aligned with Defence requirements,” said DroneShield Chief Executive Oleg Vornik.

“DroneShield’s handheld systems are designed for rapid deployment and ease of use in complex operational environments, offering frontline personnel reliable tools to detect and neutralise hostile drones. The awarded contract builds on DroneShield’s track record of delivering counter-UAS solutions to military and law enforcement customers globally, including in Ukraine.”

The full ministerial release is available here: www.minister.defence.gov.au/media-releases/2025-07-24/accelerating-acquisition-drone-counter-drone-technology

Arctic Technical Gear – MODSAW Zip Pouch

Thursday, July 24th, 2025

Introducing the MODSAW Zip Pouch or Modular SAW Zip Pouch, it is a large multi purpose pouch with a huge range of uses. Modularity is the key, from SAW 200rnd boxes to double 1L Nalgene’s or a two quart soft canteen. Add a divider to put an IFAK on one side and 4 smoke grenades or NVGs on the other. Add dual flaps allow you to keep one side of the divider secure while accessing one.

Features:

Fits a 200rnd M249/C9 box, a 2 qt soft canteen or two 1L Nalgene bottles

4 or 3 columns of Molle/PALS mountable

Velcro loop lined allows dividers, organizers and flaps

Multiple interchangeable flaps

Optional removable velcro internal divider

Dual Molle/PALS columns on sides

Optional compression shockcord and cord lock

Holes at top for shock cord retention tabs for tall items such as radios or bottles(sold separately)

Internal tie down slots and TQ mounting/drainage holes

MOD Belt compatible mounting via bolts or side mounted QASM buckles

Available in MC, RG, CB and Black

3.5″D x 7.5″W x 8″H

Extremely durable, made entirely of Brookwood’s Squadron laminate

All components are Berry compliant including Squadron laminate, Velcro and ITW buckles. Assembled in Canada.

www.arctictechnicalgear.com/product/modsaw-zip

CANSOFCOM Adopts Glock 45

Thursday, July 24th, 2025

In a recently released recruiting video, Canada Special Operations Forces Command spilled the beans on a couple of new capabilities.

While there was no public contract award, this Operator is seen shooting a G45 (which is 9mm not .45). CANSOFCOM transitioned to the C22 pistol based on the SIG P320 along with the rest of the Department of National Defence. However, based upon the fact that it made into this new video, they’ve likely been with the command for some time now.

When we inquired with DND about the new weapon, they provided us with this response:

“CANSOFCOM employs a range of weapon systems to meet a diverse set of mission requirements. We will not comment further on specific equipment details to protect operational security.”

There’s another Easter Egg in the video as well. This RECCE operator’s rifle is equipped with the Millbrook Strategic Sciences Multi Function Muzzle Device. That contract was announced during SHOT Show this year.

Here’s the entire video.