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Archive for the ‘International’ Category

Breakthrough for Seasnake: Sweden Becomes First NATO Customer

Friday, February 20th, 2026

The newest NATO member, Sweden, has commissioned Rheinmetall to supply eight Seasnake 30 weapon systems for the Swedish Navy. These systems will be the primary armament of the new Combat Boat 90 fast military assault craft. The first order under the framework agreement is worth around €63 million and was placed in February 2026. Delivery of the first system is scheduled for February 2028.


The framework agreement also includes airburst and 30 mm calibre training ammunition, with a term of four years. Spare parts and services are also included in the agreement. Additionally, the contract includes an option for up to 29 extra Seasnake weapon systems.

The Seasnake 30 is a state-of-the-art remote-controlled naval light gun designed for close-range defence. Alongside the weapon itself, the system incorporates modern daylight cameras, infrared sensors, and a laser rangefinder. It features automatic target detection and the ability to track multiple targets simul¬taneously. The revolver cannon’s nominal maximum rate of fire is 1,100 rounds per minute.

Thanks to its integrated airburst capability, the Seasnake 30 is particularly effective against air targets, such as drones. Its low silhouette and compact stealth design also make it difficult for enemy sensors to detect.

This order from Sweden marks an important market success for Rheinmetall, as it positions the Seasnake 30 with a NATO customer for the first time. This decision highlights confidence in the performance and future viability of Rheinmetall’s modern naval weapon systems. At the same time, the order reinforces the Group’s standing as a dependable provider of maritime defence solutions within the alliance.

Mehler Protection Presents “Omega Jaw”: First Mandible Guard with AK47 Protection Meeting VPAM 6

Friday, February 20th, 2026

FULDA, GERMANY (19.02.2026)

With the “Omega Jaw” mandible guard, Mehler Protection is introducing a new generation of face and jaw protection specifically designed for threats from AK47 MSC projectiles in accordance with VPAM 6, while fully maintaining system compatibility with Mehler Protection’s ultra-lightweight high-cut helmets. “This development underlines our ambition to drive innovation in our industry. Our products are based on operational requirements and are designed to provide optimum protection and genuine reliability,” explains Dr Mario Amschlinger, CEO Mehler Systems.

Homogeneous head protection against rifle ammunition

With Omega Jaw, Mehler Protection is transferring its long-standing expertise in ballistic body armour to face and jawprotection. Whereas conventional helmet/face protection combinations generally provide only limited protection against handgun ammunition and basic fragmentation protection, the system achieves a maximum protection level against AK47 MSC projectiles at a velocity of 720 m/s (VPAM 6 level) with minimal frontal deformation. This closes a critical protection gap and, for the first time, enables logically coordinated, complementary face protection.

The ballistic high-cut helmet of the Omega series can be upgraded to protection level VPAM 6 by attaching ultra-lightweight plates made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). These ugradeable plates are an essential component of the holistic VPAM 6 protection architecture. In combination with the mandible guard, the reinforced helmet provides homogeneous all-round head protection.

“In line with the current trend towards enhanced protection for face and head areas, Omega Jaw is a real game changer,” say the mandible guard designers, Dr Christian Rödel and Marie Schmidt. “For the first time, operators have access to a face and jaw protection solution that provides protection against AK47 rounds, integrates seamlessly into our ultra-lightweight high-cut helmets and at the same time maintains compatibility with mission-critical accessories. This is a decisive step towards homogeneous head protection for highly critical operational environments.”

Seamless integration into high-cut helmets with no design modifications

Omega Jaw is attached to the high-cut helmet shell via a specially developed U-profile that locks onto the helmet rim. This ensures secure and rapid system integration without altering the basic helmet design. The three-piece plate structure deliberately incorporates overlaps both between the plates and at the helmet interface in order to minimise vulnerabilities and ensure the most continuous protective surface possible. Despite the extended protection area, Omega Jaw is engineered for full compatibility with common hearing protection and communication headsets such as Peltor systems and can be used in combination with the Mehler Protection helmet visor.

Modular textile and plate concept with tactical interfaces

The textile cover concept allows the integration of different protective plates, supporting scalable protection levels as well as future material upgrades. At the same time, the design offers valuable mounting options on Picatinny rails, enabling users to attach tactical equipment without compromising protection. The system can be quickly donned and doffed using hook-and-loop straps and is designed for compact stowage during transport or when not in use.

Rheinmetall at Enforce Tac 2026: Effectiveness, Cover, Interconnection, Mobility

Friday, February 20th, 2026

From 23 to 25 February 2026, Rheinmetall AG will be exhibiting at the Enforce Tac trade fair in Nuremberg. As a leading partner to the armed and security forces, the Düsseldorf-based technology group will present a range of new products and other elements from its tactical portfolio. The divisions will display Vehicle Systems, Weapons and Ammunition, as well as Digital Systems, and present these to users, purchasers, and other trade visitors.

This year’s new additions include:

Fuchs JAGM: For the first time, Rheinmetall is presenting the next-generation Fuchs JAGM, an armoured missile tank destroyer, at a trade fair in Germany. It is the world’s first vehicle to be equipped with 24 vertically launched AGM-179 Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles (JAGMs) or AGM-114L Hellfire Longbows by Lockheed Martin. In combination with its state-of-the-art sensor package, the Fuchs JAGM can detect and engage multiple threats on the battlefield at any time. It is thus capable of counter-attacking up to 24 main battle tanks, as well as air targets, in rapid succession without reloading.

Concept for interconnecting forces, sensors and effectors for rear areas and homeland security:

In times of hybrid warfare, not only combat units on the front line are at risk. Forces and critical infrastructure in the rear areas are also exposed to a variety of threats, ranging from espionage to attacks. In order to be able to respond effectively, extensive interconnection of sensors, effectors and forces across large areas is required.

Rheinmetall will present such a concept, based on the Gladius 2.0 soldier system at Enforce Tac 2026.

New military body armour system: Rheinmetall is unveiling its new military body armour system for the first time. It shields against attacks with firearms, stabbing weapons and explosives. The modular design allows for situation-specific, individually configurable wearing options depending on the purpose and location of use, thus ensuring optimum wearing comfort.

Combat Helmet: Rheinmetall is one of the largest suppliers of combat helmets in the NATO area. Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics has added a new combat helmet to its portfolio. The new model is significantly lighter in weight while offering the same ballistic protection.

Other Rheinmetall highlights at this year’s Enforce Tac are:

Caracal air assault vehicle: The Caracal meets all the modern military’s mobility requirements. It is fast, powerful and versatile. Rheinmetall has combined many years of development expertise by Mercedes-Benz with the newly developed superstructure.

Squad Support Weapon SSW40 – the world’s first automatic, magazine-fed, shoulder-fired grenade launcher for 40 mm ammunition. Its weight, dimensions and handling of the SSW40 are similar to those of an assault rifle.

Laser/laser light modules and fire control technology – Rheinmetall’s proven laser and laser light modules will be on display at the stand and during live demonstrations in the Enforce Tac Village. These include the VarioRay and PTAL laser light modules, which are designed for pistols, and the VTAL modular laser module, which is designed for special forces. The company will also be showcasing the FCS-MR500, FCS-MR800 and FCS-TacRay ballistic fire control systems, as well as other products from Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics.

Rapid Obscuring System ROSY – the proven ROSY rapid obscurant system protects land, air and sea vehicles even when in motion through a spontaneous fog shield. The ROSY_L variant can be seen on the Caracal at Enforce Tac 2026.

Exclusive pyrotechnic equipment – Rheinmetall offers numerous exclusive pyrotechnic devices, including 9-Bang stun grenades and the Spectac cuboid grenade. Both feature bottom-top venting technology for maximum handling safety.

Paramir – this lightweight, compact, hand-fired signalling rocket is available as a flare in various colours, including an infrared variant, as well as a smoke-trail and NBC signalling version. It reaches an altitude of around 100 metres, with an illumination time of approximately 15 seconds.

Ammunition expertise: Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading developers and producers of ammunition with a calibre of 20 mm or higher. Visit our stand to experience more about our portfolio of medium-calibre, armour-piercing and artillery ammunition.

Rheinmetall – Partner of the armed and security forces

For many years, Rheinmetall has been a partner not only to the armed forces, but also the authorities and organisations responsible for security in Germany and around the world. Its portfolio of public security products includes components for ballistic protection equipment, special weapons and devices for police operations, as well as optics and optronics for day and night reconnaissance and surveillance. It also includes drone detection and defence systems and protected emergency vehicles.
At Enforce Tac 2026, visitors can find out more about Rheinmetall’s extensive portfolio at stand 426 in hall 10. The next-generation Fuchs JAGM armoured missile tank destroyer will be presented at our other Enforce Tac stand 310 in the “Armed Forces Area” in hall 11.

HENSOLDT and Schwarz Digits Form Strategic Partnership for Data-Driven Defence Capabilities

Tuesday, February 17th, 2026

Joint solution expertise for sovereign sensor cloud infrastructures, networked sensor technology and multi-domain operations

Neckarsulm/Munich (Germany), 16 February 2026 – System House HENSOLDT and Schwarz Digits are entering into a strategic partnership to jointly advance the expansion of software-defined defence and sovereign, data-driven capabilities for the networked operational environment. The aim of the collaboration is to provide fully integrated, sovereign and cloud-enabled solutions for Germany and other nations allied with Germany.

Holistic protection: from VS-Secret to quantum resistance

The partnership responds to the urgent need for independent cloud technology for the defence sector. STACKIT, Schwarz Digits’ cloud provider, delivers an end-to-end infrastructure for this purpose. Beyond the infrastructure, Schwarz Digits brings specialised security capabilities to the partnership.  Highly secure communication stacks will enable data exchange up to the VS-Secret classification level. To counter future threats, Schwarz Digits relies on quantum-resistant encryption methods and comprehensive cyber security solutions. This integrated approach provides seamless protection for the integrity of data streams against digital access.

Modular multi-domain operations software suite

HENSOLDT contributes its entire defence technology portfolio. This includes, in particular, MDOcore (Multi-Domain Operations Core) – an open, modular and cloud-enabled software suite that acts as a universal translator for different, distributed data sources with the ability to perform AI-supported data fusion and integrate capabilities across multiple military domains. In addition, HENSOLDT is contributing its product range of radar, optronics, electromagnetic signal intelligence and active and passive sensor systems. This is complemented by distributed data management and interoperability solutions. Further contributions include simulation and synthetic environments for generating data for training, artificial intelligence training, and software testing and validation. In addition, HENSOLDT’s comprehensive expertise in the integration of mission systems across land, air, sea, cyber, space and cross-domain operations complements the service portfolio.

Oliver Dörre, CEO of HENSOLDT, says: “The security challenges of our time call for sovereign, powerful and networked solutions that Europe can provide from its own technological strength. The partnership with Schwarz Digits combines leading defence electronics with sovereign digital infrastructure. This enables us to create the conditions for the holistic implementation of software-defined defence and to provide armed forces with highly effective and expandable capabilities for the networked theatre of operations.”

Christian Müller, Co-CEO of Schwarz Digits, says: “With Schwarz Digits, we are laying the digital foundation for a new era. In doing so, we are proving that digital sovereignty offers the necessary speed and security to operate critical systems in a future-proof manner.”

Sven Heursch, Chief Digital Officer at HENSOLDT, says: “Software-defined defence requires sovereign data spaces, powerful sensor technology and end-to-end, secure processing from the operational environment to the cloud. At Schwarz Digits, we share the understanding that technological sovereignty and operational effectiveness are inextricably linked. Together, we are laying the foundation for data-driven, resilient defence solutions that meet the requirements of modern multi-domain operations.”

The plan for 2026 is to translate this preliminary work into concrete prototypes and joint offerings. Among other things, there are plans for a joint prototype that combines the sovereign capabilities of Schwarz Digits with sensor technology, integration software and simulation-based data generation from HENSOLDT. In addition, the infrastructure of Schwarz Digits is to be integrated into a sensor solution from HENSOLDT. The presentation of this solution is planned for the International Aerospace Exhibition (ILA) in Berlin in June 2026.

Rheinmetall Framework Agreement with NATO Procurement Agency for 120mm Tank Ammunition – Initial Order Worth Around €200 Million

Monday, February 16th, 2026

Rheinmetall is further expanding its role as a leading manufacturer of 120mm tank ammunition. The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has called off its first batch of ammunition, worth around €200 million, under a 2025 framework agreement for 120mm ammunition, a contract of substantial scope and value. The end customers are various NATO countries.

The ‘Basic Contractual Instrument’ (BCI) signed with NSPA in July 2025 defines the terms and conditions as well as all technical specifications for various types of 120mm tank ammunition. NATO and NATO-equivalent members can use the framework agreement to simplify the procurement of Rheinmetall ammunition. They can order the ammunition directly from the NSPA. This significantly simplifies the procurement of 120mm tank ammunition within the Atlantic Alliance. Rheinmetall can thus further expand its role as a leading supplier of 120 mm tank ammunition.

Used in the field by many nations since 1980, Rheinmetall’s 120mm smoothbore technology has become the established main battle tank armament within the armed forces of Germany, NATO and other allied nations worldwide. It is the standard system on the Leopard 2 and M1 Abrams main battle tanks. Due to their superior performance and still available power reserves, Rheinmetall can continue to offer innovative and threat-appropriate technical solutions in the caliber 120mm in the medium term.

Mehler Systems Among Germany’s TOP 100 Innovators

Saturday, February 14th, 2026

FULDA, GERMANY (11.02.2026)

Mehler Systems has been awarded the prestigious TOP 100 seal for 2026, placing the company among the most innovative medium-sized enterprises in Germany. The TOP 100 innovation competition is the only one of its kind to assess the innovation capability of mid-sized companies on the basis of a scientifically grounded analysis, with a particular focus on innovation management, forward-looking strategy and sustainable competitiveness.

“We are very proud to be among the TOP 100 innovators in Germany. This award recognises the performance of our entire team as well as our ambition to anticipate market developments years in advance as a first mover,” says Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems. “The TOP 100 seal validates our path and is also an incentive to consistently pursue our innovation agenda. Our goal is to remain a reliable, forwardthinking partner for customers, suppliers and stakeholders along the entire value chain.”

The award as one of the TOP 100 innovators highlights Mehler Systems’ innovation strategy and its clear commitment to operational excellence. Innovations are developed in close dialogue with end users and development partners, with a focus on solutions that enhance protection, operational capability and resilience under real-world conditions.

Key developments across the Mehler Systems Group range from advanced personal and platform protection solutions to next-generation load-bearing and tactical clothing systems.

Mehler Protection advances personal and platform protection through solutions developed for real operational demands. Selected examples include ExoM, a new exoskeleton concept for efficient load distribution with integrated protection; ultra-light combat helmets for military users; face protection systems certified to VPAM 6 (international ballistic testing guideline); and short-range active counter-drone systems.

At Lindnerhof, product development is shaped by a functionality-first, operator-led mindset. Solutions such as the Shikari Series and modular load-bearing platforms prioritise intuitive handling, rapid adaptability and reliability in demanding environments. Lindnerhof’s patented Hakenschnalle quick-release system enables fast donning, doffing and emergency release, allowing equipment to be adapted or removed within seconds as operational conditions change.

UF PRO translates long-term research and close cooperation with end users into tactical clothing built for unrestricted movement and sustained comfort under load. Proprietary solutions such as air/pac® improve ventilation and reduce shoulder pressure, Hood/Harness® keeps the hood aligned with head movement and preserves field of view, and Waist/Flex provides adaptive lumbar support and a stable fit during dynamic movement. The Hybrid Design concept strategically combines different materials within one garment to deliver high comfort and long-term durability.

Innovation also extends to manufacturing. Rethought production concepts and highly automated lines increase efficiency, quality and reproducibility, underlining Mehler Systems’ ambition to set technological benchmarks in modern protection and equipment systems.

Mehler Systems’ innovation activities are supported by a structured and established innovation management framework. Open communication, cross-functional collaboration and targeted internal training ensure that expertise is retained within the company and continuously developed. The innovation strategy is defined in close coordination with specialist departments to integrate different perspectives and align projects with customer requirements.

“Innovation starts with a clear objective: our long-term ambition is to become the world’s leading player in our market,” Amschlinger emphasises. “For us, innovation means developing solutions that deliver real protection and genuine reliability. Our products are based on concrete operational requirements, combined with the continual optimisation of our production and operational processes.”

For more than 25 years, the TOP 100 seal has recognised companies with outstanding innovative strength, long-term profitability and forward-looking business practices. The winners are selected through a rigorous, scientifically grounded assessment. Project partners include the Fraunhofer Society and the BVMW, with manager magazin as media partner.

HENSOLDT and Helsing Join Forces for CA-1 Europa Autonomous Combat Aircraft

Friday, February 13th, 2026

Partnership initially for AI-supported air combat systems

Munich (Germany), 12 February 2026 – System house HENSOLDT and Helsing, two leading European defence technology companies, have agreed on a strategic partnership. The aim of the collaboration is to jointly advance modern defence technologies within a sovereign German and European technology architecture in order to make a substantial contribution to securing Western democracies in times of massive geopolitical shifts.

The first joint product of the two companies will be collaboration on Helsing’s AI-supported autonomous combat aircraft CA-1 Europa, which will sustainably strengthen the defence capabilities and technological leadership of a democratic Europe through purely national technology and supply chains.

The CA-1 Europa is to be equipped with powerful sensor technology from HENSOLDT in the future. The plan is to integrate technologies and sensors from the fields of radar, optronics, self-protection, and electromagnetic warfare. In addition, the HENSOLDT software suite MDOcore (Multi-Domain Operations Core) provides the digital backbone for multidimensional data fusion, networking, and coordination. In conjunction with Helsing’s AI agent Centaur, the combat drone will thus be able to carry out missions autonomously, process information securely, and make it available across dimensions.

The cooperation takes into account the changed security policy reality. Modern military systems must automatically collect, process, and make information usable in a very short time. The combination of powerful sensor technology and AI-based software is considered a decisive factor in making systems more adaptable and efficient. At the same time, both partners attach great importance to technological sovereignty and the development of European solutions.

HENSOLDT has many years of experience in the development and integration of state-of-the-art AI-supported sensor solutions and data fusion for military applications in the air, on the ground, at sea, in space, and in cyberspace. In addition to the autonomous combat aircraft, Helsing is contributing artificial intelligence to the project that is capable of autonomously controlling the combat aircraft itself in a network and independently processing large amounts of data for this purpose. The collaboration is clearly organized according to a division of labor: each company is responsible for its technologies and contributions within its own area of expertise.

Helsing and HENSOLDT are already working together with the Norwegian Kongsberg Group in the space sector to establish a sovereign satellite constellation for reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (IST) with a fully networked communication layer for Europe by 2029.

The two companies intend to prepare their first joint demonstrations in the coming months. The focus will be on close coordination with customers and partners in order to test new technologies in a practical setting and gradually transfer them into operational systems.

Oliver Dörre, CEO of HENSOLDT: “The future of modern defence systems lies in the intelligent and networked interaction of sensor technology and artificial intelligence. We share a common goal with Helsing: to responsibly develop innovative technologies and thus contribute to Europe’s security policy capabilities.”

Dr. Gundbert Scherf, co-founder and co-CEO of Helsing: “Our deterrence requires sovereign air superiority. With the CA-1, we are making a clear offer for credible European deterrence. The sovereignty and superiority of our armed forces depend on our systems being developed and produced by national industry champions. The partnership between Helsing and HENSOLDT is a joining of forces between two national champions. We are united by our commitment to massive investment in future technologies.”

2026 Canadian National Counter UAS Conference

Friday, February 13th, 2026

March 2nd and 3rd, 2026, please join the Kingston Police, Ottawa Police, and the Correctional Service of Canada for the 2026 Canadian National Counter Unmanned Aircraft System Conference at the Westin Ottawa, 11 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa ON. Conference topics include Organized Crime use of UAS for trafficking, Contraband into prisons, Narcotics and Firearms across national borders, Narcotics and Firearms within cities, protecting major events and mass gatherings from UAS attacks and miss-use, VIP protection, Protecting public infrastructure from drone attacks (power plants/lines, public safety & government buildings), weaponized UAS use in terrorist and national security related attacks, update on UAS use in Ukraine and future domestic trends, and A panel discussion on needed legislative changes to support enforcement and investigations. Please use links in attached flyers to register or go to Reservation-Link for hotel reservation and 2026 National Counter UAS Conference Tickets, Mon, Mar 2, 2026 at 8:00 AM | Eventbrite to register for the event.

Event registration is $335.00 CAD, and lodging is available for $229.00 CAD per night at the Westin.