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MGCS Project Company GmbH (MPC) Established in Cologne

Sunday, April 20th, 2025

Thursday, 17 April 2025 – The next step has now been taken in the Franco-German armaments project Main Ground Combat System (MGCS). On the basis of the approval by the German Federal Cartel Office, KNDS Deutschland, KNDS France, Rheinmetall Landsysteme and Thales legally incorporated the ‘MGCS Project Company GmbH (MPC)’ on 10 April 2025 in Cologne. Dipl. Ing. Dipl. Wirt. Ing. and Colonel (G.S. German Armed Forces Reserve) Stefan Gramolla was appointed managing director.
The founding of the company marks a further significant step in the MGCS project. After the upcoming negotiation of a contract with the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw), which is acting on behalf of the two nations through a Franco-German Combined Project Team (CPT), this project company will be responsible for implementing the next phase of the MGCS programme as the industrial prime contractor. In particular, it will consolidate the concept and the main technological pillars of the system.
Launched at the initiative of the French and German governments, the MGCS project aims to replace the Leopard 2 and Leclerc main battle tanks with a multi-platform ground combat system by 2040.

About KNDS:
KNDS is the result of the association of Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) and Nexter, two of the leading European manufacturers of military land systems based in Germany and France.
KNDS forms a Group of more than 10,000 employees, with a 2024 turnover of 3.8 billion euro, an order backlog of around 23.5 billion euro and incoming orders of 11.2 billion euro. The range of its products includes main battle tanks, armored vehicles, artillery systems, weapons systems, ammunition, robotics, military bridges, customer services, battle management systems, training solutions, protection solutions and a wide range of equipment.
The formation of KNDS represents the beginning of consolidation in land defense systems industry in Europe. The strategic alliance between KMW (now KNDS Deutschland) and Nexter (now KNDS France) enhances both groups’ competitiveness and international positions, as well as their ability to meet the needs of their respective national army. In addition, it offers to its European and NATO customers the opportunity of increased standardization and interoperability for their defense equipment, with a dependable industrial base.
KNDS headquarters are based in Amsterdam.

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GA-ASI Announces Technology Investments From Blue Magic Netherlands

Friday, April 18th, 2025

SAN DIEGO – 16 April 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is pleased to announce two businesses that it will invest in from the inaugural Blue Magic Netherlands (BMN) event last November: Emergent Swarm Solutions and Saluqi Motors.

“The technologies presented by Emergent and Saluqi really stood out to us, and we’re proud to be working with them,” said Brad Lunn, managing director for GA-ASI. “I expect several other companies from the Blue Magic Netherlands event to emerge and we hope to make additional announcements in the near future.”

At the Blue Magic investment and innovation conference in the Netherlands, GA-ASI and its partners heard pitches from innovative Dutch companies about the important technologies they are developing. The event was organized collaboratively between GA-ASI, the Dutch Ministry of Defense, the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, Brainport Development in Eindhoven, and Brabant Development Agency (BOM). The key areas of focus were Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Autonomy, Advanced Materials, Sensors, Advanced Manufacturing, and Space. Close to 50 companies applied and after reviewing the applications, 16 companies were selected to pitch their capabilities.

Emergent Swarm Solutions and Saluqi Motors were selected by GA-ASI to make investments after both companies made compelling pitches about their respective technologies at the BMN event and following months of detailed business and technology discussions with the two companies.

Emergent Swarm Solutions develops innovative software solutions for autonomous flight and intelligent, decentralized swarming capabilities for a variety of unmanned vehicles. GA-ASI is partnering with Emergent to develop critical autonomy skills for GA-ASI’s current and future portfolio of aircraft.

“It is a pleasure to partner with General Atomics to develop and deploy our autonomy and swarming capabilities on the current and next generation of unmanned aircraft,” said Lennart Bult, Co-founder and Managing Director at Emergent Swarm Solutions. “Collaborating with the General Atomics team has been a fantastic experience, and we look forward to delivering advanced capabilities through this partnership.”

Saluqi Motors builds high-density motors with integrated electronics that significantly increase power and torque in small packages, which is well-suited for airborne platforms. GA-ASI is partnering with Saluqi to qualify their existing products within the strict environmental demands of aerospace applications and to develop new products for specific applications.

“We are deeply honored to be selected by GA-ASI from such a strong field of innovative companies,” said Matthijs de Haan, CEO at Saluqi Motors. “Our ultra-compact and high-performance motors are engineered to meet the demanding requirements of aerospace applications. This collaboration enables us to further validate our technology and develop new solutions for the defense and aerospace industries.”

GA-ASI is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems and related mission systems. The company hosted its first Blue Magic event in 2019 in Belgium, with subsequent events held in 2020, 2021, and 2023. GA-ASI is delivering eight MQ-9A aircraft to the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF).

“GA-ASI is committed to continue working with the Dutch government and Dutch industry in supporting the growth of technology innovation in the Netherlands. GA-ASI anticipates holding additional BMN events in the near future,” Lunn added.

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Hanwha and WB Group Sign Term Sheet Agreement for Guided Missile Joint Venture in Poland

Friday, April 18th, 2025

Joint venture will be a strategic partnership to support local production of guided missiles for the Chunmoo (Homar-K) MRLS programme

Joint venture will strengthen Poland’s defence capabilities and foster export opportunities across Europe

Hanwha reinforces its commitment to NATO-aligned localisation and technological cooperation

April 15, 2025 – Warsaw: Hanwha Aerospace has signed a term sheet agreement to establish a joint venture with Poland’s largest private defence company, WB Group, with the aim of manufacturing guided missiles in Poland for the Homar-K Multiple Rocket Launch System.

The agreement marks a key milestone in Hanwha’s localisation strategy, reinforcing its long-term commitment to Poland’s defence modernisation and industrial development. It also underlines Hanwha’s growing role as a strategic partner for NATO and EU member states.

Under the agreement, Hanwha Aerospace will hold a 51% majority stake in the new entity, with WB Electronics (a WB Group subsidiary) holding the remaining 49%. The joint venture will commence operations following approval from Poland’s Antimonopoly Committee.

The agreement was signed by Piotr Wojciechowski, Chairman of WB Group, and Mr. Billy Boo-hwan Lee, Head of Hanwha Aerospace PGM Business Group. Among the high-profile participants at the ceremony were Mr. Pawe? Bejda, Deputy Minister of Defense; Gen. bryg. dr Artur Kuptel, Head of Armaments Agency; Mr. Hoonmin Lim, Ambassador of the Korean Embassy in Poland; and Mr. Peter Bae, CEO of Hanwha Aerospace Europe.

“With this term sheet agreement, we have just taken the most important step toward establishing our joint venture with WB Group. We believe the joint venture will contribute to the growth of Polish industrial capability, as well as to the modernisation of the Polish Armed Forces. Thanks to this endeavour, our industries will also gain the opportunity to jointly enter new European markets with competitive, combat-proven missile technologies,” said Billy Boo-hwan Lee, Head of Hanwha Aerospace PGM Business Group.

“The term sheet shows a clear roadmap for building a missile production site in Poland. The cooperation between WB Electronics and Hanwha Aerospace is a demonstration of how the Polish and Korean industries can work together and how each company complements the other. The factory will increase Poland’s independence in ammunition production and provide huge potential for industrial and economic growth. We expect the plant to become a supply centre not only for the Polish armed forces but also for the armies of other European countries. I want to point out that it will be a Polish company operating by Polish law and paying taxes in the country. The joint venture will employ Polish engineers and workers and will create a supply chain in Poland and the broader European market.” said Piotr Wojciechowski, Chairman of WB Group.

The joint venture will be responsible for fulfilling the requirements for producing 80km-range CGR-80 guided missiles for the Homar-K, a Polish version of the K239 Chunmoo MRLS, under another executive contract for the Homar-K. It is also focused on jointly marketing the guided missiles to neighbouring countries in Europe.

Hanwha Aerospace has signed two executive contracts since 2022 on the supply of 290 Chunmoo rocket artillery systems that can fire both 80km- and 290km-range guided rockets.

The Homar-K programme is referred to as one of the most successful examples for Hanwha’s localisation efforts in Poland, with extensive involvement from the Polish defence industry. Under the Homar-K programme, Polish defence companies oversee the integration and assembly of the long-range rocket launcher system, mounted on Polish Jelcz 8×8 chassis. The Homar-K also features the Topaz combat management system, developed by WB, and other Polish components and subsystems.

“The latest JV agreement with WB Group is a significant milestone for Hanwha’s continued expansion in the global defence market,” said Mr. Michael Coulter, President and CEO of Hanwha Global Defense. “It represents Hanwha’s strong commitment to delivering the technological edge as well as sovereign, domestic capacity to our global customers.”

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Mehler Systems Presents Full-Spectrum Tactical Solutions at SOFINS 2025

Wednesday, April 16th, 2025

FULDA, GERMANY (10.04.2025)

Mehler Systems, together with its brands MehlerProtection, UF PRO, and Lindnerhof, successfully participated in SOFINS 2025—the premier European exhibition for Special Operations Forces. Held from April 1 to 3 at the military base in Martignas-sur-Jalle, France, the event brought together elite tactical units, defense industry leaders, and cutting-edge solution providers to engage in dialogue and present the next generation of mission-ready equipment.

Throughout the exhibition, Mehler Systems showcased an integrated portfolio designed to meet the complex requirements of modern mission profiles. Mehler Protection presented a range of ballistic protection systems developed for high-threat environments. Among them was the ExoM Up-Armoured Exoskeleton, offering full-body protection up to VPAM 8 while maintaining operator mobility. The M.U.S.T. System demonstrated the flexibility of modular body armour platforms, and the Omega Helmet Line delivered lightweight head protection. The brand also displayed a comprehensive array of ballistic panels, vests, and plate carriers tailored for the specific needs of special operations forces.

UF PRO introduced a selection of tactical garments engineered for performance across diverse climates and terrains. The Striker TT Combat Shirt and Pants offered breathable, durable solutions for hot and humid conditions, while the Monsoon XT Gen.2 Jacket and Pants provided dependable weather resistance in harsh, wet environments. For cold-weather operations, the AcEGen.2 Winter Combat Shirt delivered a balance of insulation and moisture regulation. The Striker X Gen.2 Combat Pants, designed for rugged terrain, completed the lineup with enhanced durability and mobility.

Lindnerhof featured its latest innovations in modular load-carrying systems and tactical gear. Visitors explored plate carriers, chest rigs, pouches, and belts—each developed for high adaptability, streamlined usability, and lightweight construction. A highlight of the exhibit was The Beast, Lindnerhof’s heavy load-carrying system built to manage extreme weight while maintaining comfort and stability during prolonged missions.

SOFINS 2025 once again proved to be a key engagement opportunity for Mehler Systems to connect directly with international defense professionals and reinforce its role as a trusted provider of integrated protective and tactical systems. The event underscored the group’s continued commitment to supporting those who serve with mission-focused solutions built on performance, protection, and operational reliability.

For more information about upcoming events, visit: mehler-systems.com/events

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Spiritus Systems Adds “Equipnor AB” as European Dealer

Tuesday, April 15th, 2025

Equipnor AB is proud to announce that we have been appointed as an official European dealer for Spiritus Systems. This partnership marks a significant step in expanding the reach of Spiritus Systems’ cutting-edge tactical gear to military elite units across Europe. With a deep understanding of the operational needs of military professionals, Equipnor AB will manage the sales and distribution of Spiritus Systems’ high-performance equipment, ensuring that Europe’s elite forces have access to the most advanced tactical solutions available.

We are honored to collaborate with Spiritus Systems and look forward to supporting military professionals with industry-leading gear designed for the highest levels of performance and reliability.

For inquiries and further information, please contact Equipnor AB info@equipnor.se

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Draganfly and SafeLane Global Enter into Multi-Year Agreement with Draganfly as the Preferred Global Provider of Landmine Mapping Drones and Aerial Survey Services

Monday, April 14th, 2025

First Ukraine Landmine Aerial Survey Contract Underway

Tampa, FL — April 10, 2025 — Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO) (FSE: 3U8) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”), an industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems, today announced that it has been selected by SafeLane Global Ltd. (“SafeLane”) as its preferred unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and aerial survey provider.

SafeLane, a world-renowned specialist in explosive threat mitigation, is one of only two private organizations licensed by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense to conduct landmine and explosive ordnance clearance operations in Ukraine. With over 30 years of experience across more than 60 countries, SafeLane supports governments, humanitarian organizations, and commercial clients in the clearance and disposal of landmines, unexploded ordnance (UXO), and explosive remnants of war (ERW), both on land and underwater.

Under the agreement, Draganfly will provide advanced drone solutions, including UAVs, specialized sensors, and data analysis services, to support SafeLane’s global mine action initiatives. The collaboration aims to enhance the speed, accuracy, and safety of explosive threat detection and removal operations in high-risk environments.

“We are honored to be selected as SafeLane’s UAS partner,” said Cameron Chell, President and CEO of Draganfly. “This partnership represents a significant opportunity to leverage Draganfly’s technology to support critical humanitarian and defense efforts. Together, we will work to deliver scalable, innovative solutions for global landmine action.”

The companies will co-develop joint intellectual property and standard operating procedures tailored for aerial mine detection and clearance. SafeLane will lead proposal submissions and operational deployment, while Draganfly will provide technology, mission planning, piloting, and survey analysis.

According to the Landmine Monitor 2023, more than 60 million landmines remain buried across over 60 countries, posing a persistent threat to civilians, especially children, who account for nearly half of the casualties. Ukraine is currently one of the most mine-contaminated countries in the world.

“Draganfly’s drone-based technology will significantly increase the safety and efficiency of our operations,” said Asa Gilbert, Director of Business Development at SafeLane. “This partnership is a critical step in helping communities recover from the legacy of conflict.”

The collaboration further positions Draganfly as a key player in the defense and humanitarian sectors, supporting efforts to create safer environments in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.

draganfly.com

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“Soviet Weapons of the Atomic Age”

Monday, April 14th, 2025

Live on Kickstarter now, “Soviet Weapons of the Atomic Age” is an upcoming photo book depicting history of the Soviet Weapons of the early post-WW2 period.

Written by Vlad Besedovskyy, who also authored “Soviet Weapons of the Afghan War” and published by Safar Publishing, this volume will boast 400 pages covering Pistols, Sniper Rifles, Automatic Rifles, Machine Guns and Grenade Launchers.

They will offer historical context for each featured weapon, exploring their design, development, and deployment including exclusive content from private collections and archives.

Back the project here.

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Assac Networks Expands Presence in Central America with New Cyber Defense Contract

Friday, April 11th, 2025

Leading Cybersecurity Firm to Deploy ShieldiT Solution for State officials

Tel Aviv, April 10, 2025 – Assac Networks, a member of the Aspis Technologies Group and a specialized provider of cyber solutions for the comprehensive protection of communication devices, is pleased to announce that it has secured a significant contract with a state administration in Central America to deploy its ShieldiT system, Assac Networks’ flagship cybersecurity solution.

This new contract underscores the critical importance of mobile security in government operations. The ShieldiT system will provide high-ranking officials with a robust defense against cyber threats and eavesdropping, ensuring secure communication across widely used smartphones.

ShieldiT: Comprehensive Protection for Mobile Communications
As the most vulnerable endpoint in organizational networks, smartphones are a primary target for cyberattacks. ShieldiT offers a unified, managed anti-hacking and anti-tapping solution that includes real-time link and behavioral analysis, network-layer protection, and application risk assessment. This ensures a fully secured mobile environment, preventing cyber threats such as phishing and unauthorized surveillance.

Shimon Zigdon, CEO of Assac Networks, highlighted the company’s growing presence in the region: “This contract marks another milestone in our global expansion, reinforcing Assac Networks’ position as a trusted provider of cybersecurity solutions for government entities. The growing demand for ShieldiT worldwide reflects the urgent need for comprehensive mobile security against evolving cyber threats. We are proud to support government agencies with best-in-class protection for their communication infrastructure.”

The implementation of ShieldiT will commence in the coming months, enhancing the state’s cybersecurity resilience. This award further solidifies Assac Networks’ leadership in delivering cutting-edge cyber protection for government and enterprise clients worldwide.

For further information please visit assacnetworks.com.

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