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Strengthening the Backbone of Protective Textiles: Insights from Darinka Radic, Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

ZRENJANIN, SERBIA (09.04.2025)

Mehler Protective System d.o.o., part of the Mehler Protection brand within the Mehler Systems Group, is the production site located in Zrenjanin, Serbia. Specialising in textiles, this facility focuses on high-quality protective solutions for military, police, and security forces worldwide. As one of three strategic locations within the Mehler Protection brand—alongside Fulda and Königslutter—Mehler Protection Zrenjanin plays a critical role in the Group’s vertically integrated production network.

In a recent interview with Darinka Radic, Managing Director Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, we explored the company’s growth, its role within the Mehler Systems Group, and how it continues to meet the evolving demands of the protective textiles industry.

Q: Mehler Protection Zrenjanin has experienced significant growth over the years. What key milestones have defined this journey, and what drove your recent expansion?

A: Over the years, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin has grown significantly. A major milestone was the opening of our new 6,200 m² production hall in 2024, which brought our total workspace to 9,900 m² and land area to 49,000 m². This modern expansion includes cutting-edge production lines, a showroom, training zones, and a dedicated technology hub. It was driven by increasing global demand and our ambition to internalise more production processes. The expansion enables us to house advanced machinery, improve workflows, and scale our output efficiently—positioning us as a high-capacity production hub for Mehler Systems.

Q: How does this growth translate into workforce development and community impact?

A: We’ve grown from 206 employees in 2019 to 760 by early 2025. Workforce development is key to our success. We collaborate with local textile schools, support dual education programs, and have revived industrial seamstress training. Our on-site training center ensures new hires are well-prepared and continuously upskilled. This not only sustains our operations but also strengthens the local economy and provides long-term career opportunities.

Q: What challenges are currently shaping the protective textile industry, and how are you addressing them?

A: The industry is evolving rapidly. There’s growing demand for advanced multifunctional textiles, rising material costs, and increasing pressure to meet sustainability standards. At Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, we’re addressing these challenges by expanding internal capabilities, investing in alternative materials, and improving energy efficiency. By staying agile and focused on innovation, we continue to meet evolving market demands.

Q: Your current production capacity stands at approximately 3,000,000 minutes per month. How do you maintain high output while ensuring quality?

A: We’ve implemented a robust production planning system, advanced tracking technologies, and continuous interdepartmental collaboration. These tools help us manage resources effectively, monitor workflows in real time, and uphold the highest quality standards throughout production.

Q: What role does automation play in your operations?

A: Automation has been transformative. It enhances speed, accuracy, and consistency while reducing manual steps and human error. This has allowed us to increase efficiency and flexibility across production, enabling us to better respond to customer needs and scale output without compromising quality.

Q: How is innovation embedded in your production environment?

A: We actively invest in next-generation manufacturing techniques and textile innovations. Our adoption of digital monitoring systems enables us to optimise production processes, improve efficiency, and stay ahead of market trends. Innovation is a constant focus—it’s how we future-proof our operations and continue delivering top-tier protective solutions.

Q: What initiatives have you implemented to enhance sustainability?

A: Sustainability is central to our strategy. We’ve introduced energy-saving practices, waste reduction programs, and responsible sourcing of materials. Notably, we installed a solar power plant projected to generate over 200,000 kWh annually. These initiatives reduce our environmental footprint and align our operations with global sustainability standards.

Q: How does Mehler Protection Zrenjanin align with Mehler Systems’ overall strategy?

A: We are a cornerstone of Mehler Systems’ internal production strategy. Our vertically integrated and automation-driven facility supports the Group’s mission to maintain strict quality control, reduce dependency on external suppliers, and respond quickly to evolving customer requirements. Our contribution ensures delivery reliability and product excellence across the Group.

Q: What are your key priorities for the future?

A: Our focus is on scaling production, advancing automation, and fostering continuous workforce development. We aim to strengthen operational excellence and innovation while remaining committed to sustainable growth. Mehler Protection Zrenjanin is built to adapt, and we’re ready for what comes next.

About Mehler Protection Zrenjanin:

Mehler Protection Zrenjanin (officially Mehler Protective System d.o.o.) is the Serbian production facility of the Mehler Protection brand, operating under the Mehler Systems Group. The site specialises in the manufacturing of high-performance protective textiles for military, law enforcement, and security forces worldwide.

As one of three strategic Mehler Protection locations—alongside Fulda and Königslutter—it plays a key role in the Group’s vertically integrated production strategy. With ongoing investments in automation, facility expansion, and production capacity, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin is positioned as a reliable and scalable hub for advanced textile manufacturing within the defence and security sector.

About Darinka Radic:

Darinka Radic is the Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, a role she has held since 2019. She began her career at Mehler Protection in 2009, leading logistics and customs operations, and played a key role in streamlining procedures and boosting efficiency. With previous experience managing a family business in transport, she brought strong leadership and decision-making skills into the corporate world. Under her guidance, the company has experienced continuous growth, marked by expanded facilities, increased production capacity, and strengthened operational performance.

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Representatives Krishnamoorthi, Auchincloss Request Investigation Into Possible Sanctions Violations By Yantai Iray Technology Co

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

March 31, 2025, WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the CCP and Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) sent a letter to Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, requesting both departments investigate whether Yantai iRay Technology Co., Ltd. (“iRay”), a company in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) sanctioned by the Treasury Department, may be committingsanctions violations via a network of subsidiaries and directly related companies in the United States.

Among these subsidiaries is iRayUSA, who after iRay’s sanctioning in May 2024 for supplying Russia-based end users with controlled, dual-use technology claimed to its U.S. distributors that “iRayUSA’s manufacturing partner is a separate entity” from iRay. However, government filings along with other publicly available information strongly suggest that iRayUSA’s contention is false and that it, along with InfiRay Outdoor, Visir Inc. (brand name RIX Optics), and Inlumen Technologies (brand name Nocpix) may be violating U.S. sanctions by continuing to sell and distribute iRay products in the United States.

Reps. Krishnamoorthi and Auchincloss write in the letter, “Given their subsidiary or other close relationship with iRay, InfiRay Outdoor, iRayUSA, Visir Inc., and Inlumen Technologies appear to potentially be in violation of U.S. sanctions. Your agencies should also consider whether the operations of these entities pose a national security risk to the United States given the dual-use nature of their products and the sensitive data obtained through them. Thermal technology is a critical enabler of lethality and capability on the modern battlefield, and PLA access to U.S. thermal sensor data could allow it to refine its own capabilities while degrading U.S. leadership in this field.”

The Treasury Department imposed sanctions on iRay on May 1, 2024 for operating in the technology sector of the Russian Federation, including by supplying Russia-based end users with items like telescopic thermal sights and military thermal imagers controlled by the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security Common High Priority List.

“It is highly concerning that iRay, a company sanctioned for supporting Russia’s brutal and illegal invasion of Ukraine, appears to still be peddling its products in the United States through a shell game of U.S.-based subsidiaries,” said Ranking Member Krishnamoorthi. “In addition, iRay’s potential access to data from American users of its advanced targeting technologies could allow China’s military to dominate these capabilities at U.S. expense. We urge the Treasury and Commerce Departments to investigate this activity and appropriate enforcement actions.”

“Federal authorities must enforce sanctions against Chinese & Russian military cooperation,”said Congressman Auchincloss. “Appeasement of one is weakness to another.”

The members request the Treasury Department and Commerce Department provide them with a briefing on any information available to the departments regarding iRay and its subsidiaries by no later than April 11, 2025.

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GA-ASI Inks Collaboration Deal With South Korea’s Hanwha

Wednesday, April 9th, 2025

The Companies Will Pursue Global UAS Programs

SAN DIEGO – 08 April 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace have agreed to collaborate on the development and production of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for the global defense market. The joint effort follows the successful completion of a major flight demonstration in 2024 when the two companies launched a GA-ASI MQ-1C Gray Eagle® STOL (GE STOL) UAS from the South Korean Navy’s amphibious landing ship ROKS Dokdo (LPH-6111) as it was underway at sea off the coast of Pohang, South Korea.

The demonstration illustrated the ability of the GE STOL to safely operate on many types of aircraft-capable ships, which opens myriad new ways for the U.S. and its allies to use this UAS to support multi-domain operations. It also paved the way for GA-ASI and Hanwha to sign this new agreement to jointly invest in and pursue new UAS business opportunities.

“We’re excited to extend and deepen our business relationship with Hanwha,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue, who supervised the November 12, 2024, at-sea demonstration. “Our test flight with Gray Eagle STOL was well-received by the Republic of Korea Navy, and we know Hanwha is ready to invest to grow a UAS business with GA-ASI both in Korea and the U.S.”

Gray Eagle STOL—which stands for short takeoff and landing—is the only medium-altitude, long-endurance aircraft of its kind with the ability to operate without a catapult or arresting gear from fight deck-equipped warships such as amphibious ships and aircraft carriers. It additionally enables true runway independence by operating from unimproved fields and roads, beaches, parking lots, etc.

Hanwha Aerospace plans to invest more than 300 billion KRW (US $203.5M) in the development and production facilities for GE STOL and UAS engines, expand research and development activities, and provide production infrastructure in both South Korea and with GA-ASI in the U.S. This is in addition to GA-ASI’s past and ongoing investment in UAS STOL development. Hanwha also plans to create jobs by securing talent in related fields and to foster the domestic (Korean) UAS industry ecosystem by discovering domestic parts and material partner companies. GA-ASI expects the endeavor to create nearly 10,000 jobs based upon the expected sales and support over the next 10 years, and at least 500 jobs in the U.S.

“Hanwha Aerospace views unmanned systems as a strategic pillar for the future of defense. Through our collaboration with GA-ASI, we aim to strengthen sovereign defense capabilities, expand Korea’s presence in the global UAS market, and contribute to a more robust ROK-U.S. alliance, said Dong Kwan Kim, Vice Chairman of Hanwha Group.

Previously known as Mojave, Gray Eagle STOL leverages extensive commonality with the well-proven, in-production Gray Eagle 25M airframe to offer a highly capable new aircraft at greatly reduced cost and technical risk compared to a clean-sheet design. Gray Eagle STOL has recorded a number of first-of-their-kind aviation milestones, including the flight from the Dokdo, launch and recovery aboard the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales (09), live-fire testing at Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz., and several others. Gray Eagle STOL offers international militaries a unique platform: a full-featured medium-altitude, long-endurance UAS with a significant battlefield payload that can take off in short distances from ships, unimproved surfaces, or other highly combat-relevant locations.

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Meprolight Secures Israeli Police Contract for STING PRO Dual Laser Pointer Adapted Uniquely for Law Enforcement Forces

Wednesday, April 9th, 2025

The Compact Dual-Wavelength Laser Pointer Now Equipped with Green Laser, Ensuring Forces’ Distinction and Improved Coordination in Critical Situations

08 April , 2025 Israel. Meprolight (1990) Ltd. – a member of the SK Group (founded by Mr. Samy Katsav) and a leading manufacturer of electro-optical systems, thermal and night vision equipment, as well as self-illuminated sights for military, law enforcement and civilian applications, announces securing a significant contract from the Israeli Police for the supply of STING PRO laser pointers. The STING PRO, already proven operationally worldwide, has been specifically adapted for police use with a green laser pointer to distinguish police from military forces in combat zones, a top-mounted activation button, and a compact design ensuring safer and more effective coordination in critical situations.

The delivery of the advanced dual laser pointer will take place throughout the year, enhancing the Israeli Police’s tactical capabilities with improved accuracy for various operational scenarios, including close quarters battle (CQB) and covert nighttime operations. The integration of the green laser pointer provides law enforcement with a critical tool for maintaining clear visual differentiation from military units, optimizing mission success and reducing risks in combat zones.

The STING PRO offers dual-wavelength capabilities, providing both visible (635 nm) and infrared laser pointers. With flexible low and high-intensity options, it ensures optimal performance in urban and covert environments, with a beam divergence of 0.5 mrad.

The dual laser pointer ergonomic design allows for easy operation by both right- and left-handed users. Built to MIL STD 810 standards, the STING PRO is rugged and durable, capable of withstanding harsh operational conditions. Weighing less than 250 grams, it mounts on a Picatinny MIL STD 1913 rail, enhancing mobility and flexibility. The dual laser pointer operates for up to 12 hours on a single 1.5V AA battery, ensuring reliable performance during extended missions. Additionally, it features a single zeroing mechanism for both visible and infrared lasers, simplifying setup for enhanced accuracy in both day and night operations.

“Meprolight continues to adapt its products to meet the evolving needs of its customers,” said Golan Kalimi, VP of Marketing at Meprolight. “The reliability of the STING PRO has already been proven globally, and we are proud to collaborate with the Israeli Police. This partnership adds to our ongoing collaboration with the IDF, furthering our commitment to supporting security forces

For more information on Meprolight, please visit: www.meprolight.com,

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The Wing Group Expands Global Presence with New Subsidiary in Australia

Wednesday, April 9th, 2025

Sydney, Australia – The Wing Group is pleased to announce the establishment of its wholly owned subsidiary in Australia. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s global growth and underscores its commitment to providing advanced solutions for security, defence, and critical marine operations. By strengthening its presence in the Southern Hemisphere, The Wing Group reaffirms its dedication to supporting critical security operations worldwide.

Leading the Australian subsidiary is Gavin Stevens MG, a seasoned professional with a distinguished career supporting elite military and professional operations in complex maritime environments. His expertise will play a pivotal role in expanding The Wing Group’s reach and delivering specialized support to Australian, New Zealand and Asia-Pacific operations.

Gavin Stevens MG

Stevens shared: “I’m honoured to lead The Wing Group’s Australian operations. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on enabling mission success in high-stakes maritime environments—values that align perfectly with The Wing Group’s commitment to performance, innovation, and integrity. I look forward to supporting our current local partners, building new ones and delivering real impact on the ground.”

Andrew Branagh, President of The Wing Group, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion:“The Southern Hemisphere is a dynamic and vital region in the global security landscape. As operational challenges evolve, it’s crucial to provide localized, hands-on support to ensure mission success. With Gavin at the helm and together with our trusted distribution partners—Calgus Maritime, Stern First, and Aquaterro—we are strengthening our ability to deliver world-class solutions tailored to the unique needs of this region.”

By establishing a direct presence in Australia, The Wing Group enhances its ability to support military, governmental, and professional teams with cutting-edge equipment from Wing Inflatables and Mustang Survival, as well as localized training and operational expertise.

For more information about The Wing Group and its new subsidiary in Australia, please contact:

Gavin Stevens MG
Managing Director, Wing Group Australia
gstevens@winggroup.com
+61 402 097 905

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Rheinmetall Takes Over Hagedorn-NC GmbH, Securing the Supply Chain for Propellant Production

Tuesday, April 8th, 2025

Rheinmetall AG is taking over Hagedorn-NC GmbH, headquartered in Osnabrück, Lower-Saxony. This long-established company has been producing industrial nitrocellulose for civilian applications in Lingen an der Ems for over 100 years. In the course of the takeover, relevant parts of the production are to be converted to military applications. The acquisition enables the Düsseldorf-based technology group to strengthen its manufacturing capacity for propellants for all types of ammunition, especially for 155mm artillery ammunition.

A corresponding purchase agreement has now been concluded between Rheinmetall and Hagedorn AG, Osnabrück, as the seller. The acquisition is subject to antitrust approval by the relevant authorities.

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “The acquisition helps us to overcome a strategic bottleneck in propellant production. It gives us an important source of raw materials and continues the vertical integration along the entire value chain in the production of ammunition. We look forward to welcoming the approximately 90 employees of Hagedorn NC to the Rheinmetall Corporation and to offering them secure prospects for the future”.

Gerd Hofmann, CEO of Hagedorn AG: “I am very pleased to have found a new owner for Hagedorn-NC in Rheinmetall, which will offer the company new prospects and growth opportunities. I am convinced that both companies will work well together.”

Nitrocellulose is an essential energetic component of propellant powders. These are used, among other things, as propellants for artillery ammunition. Nitrocellulose is produced by reacting cellulose with nitrating acids. Rheinmetall currently produces nitrocellulose at three sites: Wimmis (Switzerland), Murcia (Spain) and Wellington (South Africa). Through this acquisition, the corporation will have an additional site.

Existing customers of Hagedorn-NC GmbH in the civil sector will continue to be supplied for the time being. In the coming months, conversion
of production to military-grade nitrocellulose is planned.

This step further strengthens Rheinmetall’s position as a leading supplier of large calibre ammunition within NATO, ensuring a long-term, independent supply of essential components for production. As a system house, Rheinmetall offers the ‘full shot’ from a single source: the projectile, the fuse, the explosive charge and the propellant.

Posted in Ammo, Industry, International, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Dive Into The Secret World Of The Legionaires

Tuesday, April 8th, 2025

Mysterious, legendary, formidable… The Foreign Legion always fascinates. But what lies behind the white caps?

This year, Fort Nogent opens its doors wide and immerses you in its world. To mark the commemoration of Camerone, enjoy 3 days of unique experiences (April 30, May 3 and 4) alongside the legionnaires.

THE BATTLE OF CAMERONE, A LEGENDARY STORY: On April 30, 1863, during the Mexican expedition, 60 legionnaires besieged in a hacienda heroically resisted 2,000 Mexican soldiers. Every year, this legendary battle, a symbol of loyalty to one’s word and sacred mission, unites the white caps around the “legion spirit.” The military ceremony, open to the public, will take place on Wednesday, April 30th at 11:00 a.m. and will be presided over by Lieutenant General Loïc Mizon, Military Governor of Paris.

AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE AT THE HEART OF THE LEGION: After the ceremony, it’s time to celebrate:

Experience the adrenaline rush: military demonstrations, commando courses, and physical challenges.

Enjoy an XL fair: rides, attractions, and family fun.

Attend the Miss White Képi pageant, followed by the Legionnaire’s Ball, from 8:15 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

Try your luck in the raffle: many prizes to be won!

On May 3rd and 4th, the Fort reopens its doors for two more days of celebration.

A MENU BY THIERRY MARX: This year again, Thierry Marx, Michelin-starred chef and loyal supporter of the Legion, invites you to discover a special, gourmet, and charitable menu. For only €12, you can enjoy a gourmet burger, a pastry, and an organic craft beer. The profits will be donated to the Legionary Mutual Aid, benefiting the wounded, bereaved families, and former legionnaires.

FORT DE NOGENT: A RECRUITMENT CENTRE: Since 1962, Fort de Nogent has been a key point for Legionary recruitment.

Each year, more than 3,000 candidates pass through its doors, but only 1,400 will join the ranks of this elite troop by 2025. The Foreign Legion is a fighting force composed of nearly 9,500 men, representing 12% of the Army’s operational strength. The Foreign Legion is a unique human force, representing nearly 150 nationalities.

Legionnaires serve under a so-called “foreign title” contract and are commanded almost exclusively by French officers. Since 1831, the Legion has been an elite troop of the French Army.

It is engaged in all external operations as well as internal missions to protect the national territory.

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UVision Acquires Trim Robotics, Expanding its Loitering Munition Capabilities

Tuesday, April 8th, 2025

Strengthening UVision’s Tactical Loitering Munition Portfolio with Innovative Ground-Breaking Precision Strike Capabilities

April 7 2025, UVision USA., a global pioneer in loitering munition systems, announced the acquisition of Trim Robotics, a cutting-edge developer of next-generation rotary-wing high maneuver loitering munitions. This strategic acquisition strengthens UVision’s operational portfolio by integrating the HERO series with Trim’s innovative Quadikaze missile, creating a more versatile and synergized loitering munition portfolio. Trim Robotics’ QuadiKaze missile is a groundbreaking dual-frame rotary-wing loitering munition system that offers unprecedented aerodynamic efficiency and enhanced flight performance. Unlike conventional rotary wing solutions, Trim’s designintegrates dual fuselage ensuring superior in-flight control, optimized attack trajectories with a high angle of attack.

The Trim QuadiKaze missile bridges the gap between the limited maneuverability of traditional attack quadcopters and UVision’s advanced fixed-wing Hero series of loitering munitions. It offers significant operational advantages, including extended flight endurance, longer mission durations, and rapid engagement of time-sensitive targets. Its compact dual-fuselage design is ideal for urban warfare and dense environments such asforests and narrow alleyways. Autonomous target identification and attack capabilities ensure stealthy, high-speed engagements, enhancing lethality. The Trim solution is man-portable, requires minimal training, and allows for rapid deployment without extensive preparation. It weighs approximately 4 kg with a highly efficient payload-to-platform ratio.

Dr. Ran Gozali, CEO of UVision Air Ltd., stated: “UVision continues to develop loitering munitions, and this acquisition demonstrates our commitment to enhancing the HERO family’s capabilities for tactical forces. The dual-fuselage design delivers ease of control and fixed-wing-grade kinetic performance. This approach aligns with our vision and portfolio, addressing the need for high-speed, precision loitering munitions in complex operational environments. Together, we will provide customers with next-generation solutions for modern battlefields.”

Jonathan Cohen, CEO of Trim Robotics, said: “This strategic investment and partnership represent a strong vote of confidence in our technology, capabilities, and long-term vision. Partnering with UVision a global leader in loitering munitions – enhances our ability to deliver advanced, mission-ready solutions. Together, we are accelerating the future of UAV innovation and meetingthe evolving operational needs of modern defense. We value this partnership and are confident it will bring the Peregrine closer to those who need it most.”

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