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Rheinmetall’s PTAL – The Laser Light Module for Handguns

Thursday, March 6th, 2025

Rheinmetall’s new Pistol Tactical Aiming Laser (PTAL) is a compact lightweight attachment module specially designed for handguns. It is made by Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics in Stockach on Lake Constance.

For target illumination, an infrared close-range illuminator and white light are available to the operator for use in all operational situations. In addition, the PTAL is equipped with an IR aiming laser and a visible (selectable red or green) aiming laser, integrated next to each other in a laser block.

Despite its compact dimensions (L/W/H 76 x 45 x 30 mm) and low weight of just 115 g, the newly developed module produces a powerful laser output of up to laser class 3B, permanently controlled via a monitor diode and electronically regulated. The build-on module features a dongle interface for an eye-safe training mode and effective force-on-force training.

Besides ergonomic, two-handed fingertip operability, the module can be attached to the weapon in various ways and can be adapted to different holster types. The single CR123 battery can be exchanged via the lamp head when the module is mounted. Furthermore, the device offers the great advantage of not being subject to America’s strict ITAR export regulations.

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Rheinmetall VTAL – the Compact and Modular Laser Module for Special Forces

Wednesday, March 5th, 2025

The modular laser module VTAL from Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics, designed especially for special forces, is extremely robust and compact. The “Variable Tactical Aiming Laser” is suitable for use on today’s shorter assault rifles as well as on other small arms.

Watertight, light and stable, the metal housing has a built-in MIL STD 1913/STANAG 4694 interface. Because the VTAL protrudes only about 25 mm above the mounting rail, it does not interfere with the line of sight during conventional optical aiming. The VTAL features an extremely strong visible red dot laser, an infrared dot laser, and an infrared illuminator. The superior quality of the lasers and their consistency of form enhances the user’s situational awareness in all operating environments. Importantly, the VTAL is compatible with all standard image intensifier devices. The fully integrated laser block is aligned at the factory, making adjustment on the weapon simple. The VTAL can also be configured according to customer requirements.

Owing to the device’s modern design, the operator can adjust the intensity of both dot lasers with the aid of a colour-coded cable switch. The illuminator can be focused using a separate control knob. Furthermore, the VTAL can be coupled with other tactical weapon lights and can be operated using a combined two button cable switch.

Rheinmetall offers the “TL-MissionLight” as such a separate weapon torch. It is available in a standard version with a dual LED head and a special version for hostage rescue operations. Typically, the LM-VTAL and one of the two weapon lights are mounted on the weapon. The robust design assures stability and dependability. The system can withstand the worst battlefield conditions and is waterproof to a depth of 30 metres. This way, operators know they can rely on the device at all times.

Rheinmetall’s laser light package is already in use with various special operation formations. Among others it is a component of the Bundeswehr’s Special Forces Assault Rifle (“Sturmgewehr Spezialkräfte Bundeswehr, leicht”).

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Exosens Makes First US Investment in Night Vision Production Capacity to Address Growing Demand and Benefit from New Opportunities

Wednesday, March 5th, 2025

MÉRIGNAC, FRANCE – MARCH, 3RD 2025

In response to increasing demand, Exosens will invest €20M over the next two years to expand production capacity in both Europe and the U.S.

This investment will establish Exosens’ first U.S. manufacturing site for producing “Made in America” image intensifier tubes

It strengthens Exosens’ position to capture a larger share of the world’s largest market, which represents 45% of the global market and is set for strong growth in both commercial and defense sectors

The global night vision market is benefiting from growing demand, driven by increasing defense budgets and the need for armies worldwide to enhance their night fighting capabilities. The return of high-density combat has underscored the critical importance of night operation abilities as a key tactical advantage. NATO and Tier-1 allies continued to ramp up their procurement of night vision systems in 2024, though they are still far from reaching the targeted equipment rate.

With decades of expertise, Photonis, brand of Exosens, offers image intensifier tubes, the engine of night vision devices, which improve soldiers’ tactical situational awareness, agility and mobility, as well as their targeting and driving capabilities, in the darkest of nights.

In order to meet increasing night vision demand, Exosens invests €20m to expand its production capacity not only in Europe but also in the US with, for the first time, a new production plant in the US underscoring additional market opportunities with locally produced “Made in America” image intensifier tubes.

This new installation will take place in Sturbridge (Massachusetts) where the group has already its Photonis Scientific Inc subsidiary. Exosens will take advantage of the support and synergies available within the group to optimize the time setup for the manufacturing of the image intensifier tubes, which is expected to begin in early 2027.

“We are pleased to announce a new investment in our capacity on the US ground, which represents a major step in our strategy. Expansion into the US market presents a significant opportunity to strengthen our position as a global leader in image intensifier tubes. This new capacity will also enable us to meet customers’ demand for large-volume, high-performance products manufactured in the US.” said Exosens CEO, Jérôme Cerisier

www.exosens.com

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Ermine – Rheinmetall’s New Lightweight Hybrid Vehicle Family for Modern Armed Forces

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

Rheinmetall is showing its tactical small vehicle family Ermine for the first time at the Enforce Tac. It represents a new generation of tactical mobility, combining tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid). Operational creativity is at the core Ermine’s design. Its features enable it to act as an effective force multiplier. Ermine can operate remotely controlled and is prepared for autonomy.

The modular Ermine family currently consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad. Various 4×4 and 6×6 variants are available. All vehicles are based on the same diesel-electric hybrid drivetrain and base platform. This gives Ermine maximum modularity with unrivalled agility. Thanks to the hybrid technology, up to one ton of payload, a range of more than 1,000 kilometres and a top speed of 90 km/h are possible, depending on the vehicle’s configuration. Up to four Ermine vehicles can be transported by cargo helicopters such as the CH-47 or CH-53.

The Ermine vehicles can be configured for various purposes, including reconnaissance & liaison, special operations, anti-tank, weapon carriers,
MedEvac or generator function. At Enforce Tac 2025, Rheinmetall showcased a 4×4 quad with the ROSY smoke/obscurant system and special operation forces equipment. One element is the Mobile Mission Pod (MMP, which also made its debut at Enforce Tac.)

The MMP is designed to conduct standoff reconnaissance and engage enemy forces using small UAVs. Developed primarily for special operations forces, it enables maximum effectiveness behind enemy lines. Thanks to its long standby time and remote operability in conjunction with artificial intelligence (AI), the MMP is designed to be able to operate against enemy forces long after it has been deployed to the battlefield. The MMP combines the expertise of existing products as well as current technologies and experiences from current conflicts in a new product that is outstanding in its capabilities. Thanks to its high degree of automation, AI support and standalone design, it significantly expands the mission portfolio of armed forces, enabling missions that were previously considered impossible.

The Ermine vehicles are furthermore characterised by high mobility in almost any terrain and can also be driven completely silent thanks to their electric drive. If the vehicles are not used for tactical mobility, they can be used as a mobile energy source. The Ermine family can therefore significantly increase the operational value of armed forces.

The Ermine technology was developed in the Netherlands by the start-up company REEQ – a subsidiary of Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. since March 2024 – and is being produced there. The acquisition of REEQ enables Rheinmetall to serve the Dutch and European market in the field of light tactical mobility, both manned and unmanned, in combination with a microgrid – and with short delivery times. Thereby Rheinmetall’s industrial strength and the innovative power of a start-up complement each other. Within the Rheinmetall Group, REEQ retains its status as a start-up in the field of development. The further development and serial production of these vehicles will also take place in the Netherlands.

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Rheinmetall Squad Support Weapon – The 40mm Fire Support Weapon for Superior Infantry Firepower

Monday, March 3rd, 2025

Rheinmetall is presenting the world’s first automatic, magazine-loaded, shoulder fired grenade launcher at Enforcetac 2025. Both weight, dimensions and handling of the SSW40 are similar to assault rifles. Thanks to a recoil-reducing and self-regulating recoil system, the SSW40 (Squad Support Weapon 40) can fire all available 40mm Low Velocity (LV) ammunition types as well as the new Rheinmetall 40mm Medium Velocity (MV) ammunition.

The new MV ammunition has a significantly increased velocity and a flat trajectory, allowing targets to be engaged more quickly and increasing the effective range of the system to 900m. Combined with the broad spectrum of Rheinmetall’s 40mm LV/MV ammunition portfolio, the infantry user achieves unprecedented flexibility and effectiveness on the battlefield of the future. The first test firings were successfully carried out at the beginning of 2024. The market launch with series production will start in 2025.

The 40mm MV ammunition family combines Rheinmetall’s experience in 40mm LV and High Velocity (HV) ammunition. Therefore, the SSW40 can be used with the following ammunition types:

HE Fragmentation (HEFRAG)
Anti-Tank (HEDP)
Door Breaching (HEBE)
Air Burst (HEAB)
Training (TPM, TPM-T)
Illumination / Fog
Sound & Flash and Irritation Ammunition (CS)

Via a quick magazine change, the SSW40 can be used in any near peer as well as asymmetric conflict scenario and offers superior firepower in any terrain, even against medium-weight armoured vehicles. The interfaces on the SSW40 also allow the inclusion of laser light modules, fire control sights as well as IR programmers for aerial explosive point ammunition. The SSW40 can also be integrated on vehicle mounts or field mounts.

Posted in International, Press Release, weapons | 6 Comments »

Rheinmetall Gladius Light – Special Networking for Special Operations Forces

Sunday, March 2nd, 2025

Soldier systems connect individual warriors on the battlefield with other actors, sensors, effectors and platforms, bringing them into the network-enabled operational loop. Rheinmetall has extensive experience in this area. Just in February 2025 the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) has signed a framework contract with Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH for the follow-on procurement of soldiersystems ‘Infantry Soldier of the Future – Enhanced System’ (IdZES). The framework contract, with a maximum gross volume of €3.1bn, will run until the end of 2030. Overall, the German Armed Forces can thus initiate the proportional regeneration as well as the manufacturing and delivery of up to 368 IdZ-ES platoon systems and various options for the procurement of additional components and services. A platoon is a military sub-unit.

IdZ-ES is based on the soldier system Gladius 2.0. At Enforce Tac 2025, the Group will be presenting another version of its Gladius 2.0 soldier system, specifically designed to meet the needs of special operations forces. During development, the system’s designers kept a sharp focus on the need for lightweight, flexible systems that enable maximum mobility. The Gladius Light configuration has therefore been stripped down to its essentials. At the same time, however, care was taken to maximize flexibility, making it possible to include accessories needed for special operations. Moreover, the new configuration is specially designed to enable subsequent upgrades and extensions. The Gladius Light configuration is based on a lightweight tactical harness with scalable ballistic protection.

It includes:
-a radio for voice and data communication as well as GPS tracking for ‘blue force’ information;
-an advanced headset with various push-to-talk buttons (connected by cable or Bluetooth) for voice communication;
-an end user device (e.g. a tablet) for depicting tactical maps, assuring an uninterrupted exchange of information and improved situational awareness.

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Gilat to Invest up to $3.5 Million in Disruptive ESA Based Drone Detection Startup Crosense

Friday, February 28th, 2025

Gilat expands its HLS and Defense strategic footprint with investment in cutting-edge deep-tech company

Petah Tikva, Israel, February 25, 2025 – Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT), a global leader in satellite networking technology, solutions, and services, today announced an investment of up to $3.5 million in Crosense, an early-stage startup revolutionizing drone detection and tracking. The investment is part of a funding round co-led by Frontier Capital, reinforcing strong industry confidence in Crosense’s disruptive technology. This move aligns with Gilat’s recently declared strategic focus on expanding its presence in the Homeland Security (HLS) and Defense sectors.

Crosense is developing a disruptive new class of deep-tech, electronically steered antenna (ESA) based drone detection and tracking systems, addressing an urgent, unmet need for securing airports, military bases, and critical infrastructure against unauthorized drone activity. Unlike traditional solutions, Crosense’s passive, all-weather, real-time system will provide 24/7 hermetic coverage, ensuring accurate, scalable, and cost-effective detection in all terrains, including dense urban environments.

“The rapid rise of drone threats has created an immediate demand for more effective detection solutions, and Crosense’s technology is poised to disrupt the market,” said Roni Stoleru, Chief Corporate Development Officer at Gilat. “This investment reflects Gilat’s commitment to the defense sector and our strategy to bring innovative, field-proven solutions to military and government customers worldwide. By supporting Crosense, we are reinforcing our role in safeguarding critical assets with next-generation technologies.”

“We are thrilled to have Gilat as our strategic partner and investor,” stated Crosense founder and CEO, Gil Zwirn. “Gilat’s extensive knowledge and expertise, as well as its robust global marketing and sales channels will be instrumental in our journey. This collaboration is expected to propel Crosense forward, fostering innovation and growth, and amplifying our reach and impact.”

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HENSOLDT and QinetiQ Germany Expand Their Cooperation: Training for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Systems in Germany

Thursday, February 27th, 2025

Taufkirchen, 26.02.2025 – The sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT and QinetiQ Germany have strengthened their collaboration in the field of uncrewed aerial vehicles and systems, with ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH serving as the prime contractor.

This strengthened alliance supports QinetiQ’s Global Threat Representation strategy, reinforcing its reputation as a global service provider for military exercises, from operational analysis to implementing new capabilities.

The expanded partnership focuses on three key areas including:

· Capability enhancement.

· Military uncrewed aerial vehicles of category IIa.

· Training and certified testing.

This partnership builds on years of successful cooperation between, QinetiQ and HENSOLDT in Germany and Europe particularly in airborne radar systems using PC-12 test aircraft and the supply of reconnaissance technology for QinetiQ’s fleet.

With key locations in Bavaria and Schleswig-Holstein, QinetiQ and HENSOLDT are well-positioned to support the German Armed Forces and other security authorities in operating uncrewed systems.

HENSOLDT has been integrated as a certified body by the German Armed Forces Aviation Office for military uncrewed aerial vehicles of category IIa. This category encompasses drones used for flight target presentation, prototypes and system demonstrators.

HENSOLDT will also act as a recognised training and certified testing centre for remote pilots of civil uncrewed aircraft in QinetiQ’s category 2c, which includes drones that do not require prior approval. As a multi-certified body, HENSOLDT can provide comprehensive system support within this strengthened partnership.

Thorsten Heil, Head of Flight Operations at HENSOLDT in Germany, added: “As a reliable technology and innovation partner and an approved aviation company for both uncrewed and crewed aircraft, we are committed to developing specific, customer-oriented, and market-driven solutions that maintain our armed forces’ defence capabilities and enhance public safety. The intensified cooperation with QinetiQ is a critical step towards improving education and training for uncrewed aircraft and systems in Germany, contributing to the sustainable strengthening of our security.”

Matthias Grögor, Head of Strategic Business Development at QinetiQ in Germany, said:

“Through our partnership with HENSOLDT, we demonstrate a proven collaboration with the German Armed Forces and other security authorities, backed by years of successful work, particularly with the German Air Force,” Matthias said. “Together, we aim to expand our services in uncrewed systems – from development and certification to education and training, around our Bavarian location in Augsburg, helping to establish Bavaria as a leading hub for drone technology.”

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