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ACTinBlack Unveils DTNVX Advanced Binocular Night Vision System

Monday, June 15th, 2026

Trusted through years of field deployment, ACTinBlack’s core night vision platform, DTNVS, has established itself as one of the industry’s most respected and combat-proven systems, recognized for its reliability, durability, and performance across demanding mission environments worldwide.

Now, ACTinBlack unveils DTNVX – a modular binocular night vision system designed to expand the proven DTNVS ecosystem with enhanced flexibility, improved ergonomics, and optimized system architecture tailored to evolving operational requirements.

“DTNVS continues to represent a proven and trusted capability within the ACTinBlack product portfolio. With DTNVX, we have built on that proven foundation through close collaboration with professional end users – enhancing adaptability, optimizing the power architecture, and improving overall usability and sustainment while maintaining the reliability and durability expected of a combat-capable night vision system.”

Lumi Ritter, Head of Business Development at ACTinBlack

Designed for modern operational environments, DTNVX reflects ACTinBlack’s commitment to continuous innovation driven by real-world user experience and mission-focused engineering.

KEY FEATURES

Flexible Power Architecture

DTNVX is available in either 1 × CR123A or 1 × AA battery configurations, providing deployment flexibility and simplified logistical support across diverse mission sets. Integrated external power capability enables extended-duration use, delivering a minimum runtime of 22 hours on internal batteries and more than 40 hours when paired with the dedicated external battery pack or compatible external power source.

Mission-Configurable User Programmability

DTNVX enables end-users to configure mission-specific system behavior directly in the field without dedicated programming equipment or external tools. Programmable functions – including automatic power management and activation sequences – can be adjusted to support changing operational requirements and individual user preferences.

PVS-14 Optics Compatibility

Fully compatible with the PVS-14 optics platform, DTNVXsupports long-term sustainment for maintenance, repair, and accessory integration while offering users a broad range of optical configurations, including lightweight 40° FOV to 50° FOV optics.

Lightweight Ruggedized Construction

Combining European electronics with high-strength fiber-composite construction, DTNVX achieves an optimized balance of durability, weight reduction, and ergonomic integration. Its compact, lightweight design minimizes operator burden while maximizing compatibility with modern helmets, mounts, tactical equipment, and soldier systems.

Maintenance-Oriented System Design

DTNVX incorporates a dedicated maintenance interface accessible through the external power connector, enabling runtime diagnostics, advanced configuration access, programmable feature management, and streamlined firmware updates. This architecture reduces maintenance complexity while supporting long-term mission readiness and lifecycle sustainment.

Availability

Further technical information, product demonstrations, and evaluation opportunities are available upon request through ACTinBlack Business Development.

info@actinblack.com
www.actinblack.com

Allen-Vanguard Secures Over $3 Million Worth of New Contracts in Africa

Saturday, June 13th, 2026

Allen-Vanguard, a global leader in Cyber Electromagnetic Activities (CEMA), has secured over $3 million worth of new contracts for its vehicle-based Electronic Countermeasure (ECM) system (3XXX) and highly adaptable man-portable ECM system (SCORPION 2) to enhance the force protection and C-IED capability of two African nations. Allen-Vanguard will be at Eurosatory, Hall 5a – DE345 to discuss all their integrated RF protection products and capabilities to defeat modern threats.

Allen-Vanguard are experts in delivering integrated, platform-agnostic RF electronic warfare, counter-RCIED and counter-UAS solutions. It has over 25 years of operational experience in the design, development and deployment of integrated, platform-agnostic systems tailored to counter evolving threats in high-risk environments. Its capabilities enable the detection, disruption and protection of personnel across complex battlespaces, supporting defence, security and public safety organisations worldwide. Allen-Vanguard combines proven technology with comprehensive training, threat-informed updates and through-life support to ensure sustained effectiveness and mission readiness in high-risk operational scenarios.

Due to the sensitivity and security risks associated with the customer’s theatre of operations, it is not possible to disclose the purchasing nations or specify the deployment plans for this new capability. However, these initial orders are a major force protection capability uplift for the end user. It will deliver enhanced individual, vehicle and vulnerable point protection to security forces operating in high-risk Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Device (RC-IED) environments and, in addition, help mitigate the increasing threat posed by the use of Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS), such as drones, to conduct aggressive ISTAR activity or deliver lethal effects.

The contracts come with a full support package, including training for users, technicians and mission-fill development. This support includes the deployment of Field Service Representatives to ensure the development of indigenous ECM capability and reach back to the Threat Management Team.

This team of RF experts optimise algorithms specific to the end user’s needs to combat evolving threats specific to their region of operations. This comprehensive wrap-around support maximises the protection offered by the ECM systems, both from a physical capability perspective but also from the essential changes to tactics, techniques and procedures necessary to keep operators safe.

Stuart Wilson, Director Business Development & Marketing at Allen-Vanguard, said: “We have a long history of providing force protection capability to African nations and associated peace-keeping forces, and we are extremely pleased to secure these new contracts to maintain and enhance this important relationship with the region. Unfortunately, the significant threat to security forces in Africa from UXOs, IEDs, RC-IEDs and other RF hazards remains high, and has only been exacerbated by the growing threat from UAS. Our systems are not only market leading in relation to their technology and capability, but our support packages also ensure purchasing nations improve their wider ECM capability and remain updated with the latest algorithms and software to maintain their protection. For this reason, we are trusted and operationally proven with NATO countries and peace-keeping forces globally.”

Air Commandos Make History: 492nd, 919th SOW Airmen Graduate Argentine Mountain School

Saturday, June 13th, 2026

BARILOCHE, Argentina — For the first time in United States Air Force history, two Airmen have successfully completed the rigorous mountain warfare course at the Escuela Militar de Montaña in Bariloche, Argentina, according to Director of the Argentine Mountain Warfare School, Col. Ignacio García Solórzano. The graduation of members from the 492nd Special Operations Wing and the 919th Special Operations Wing marks a major milestone, representing the first time in 20 years that any U.S. military personnel have completed the prestigious school.

Set in the unforgiving, rugged terrain of Patagonia, the mountain school is designed to push students to their absolute physical and mental limits. These Air Commandos faced a demanding curriculum focused on high-altitude operations, specialized cold-weather survival, and moving quickly through mountainous landscapes. Over several weeks, they mastered advanced rock climbing, complex rope safety techniques, and the use of single-rope bridges to cross dangerous mountain rivers.

“Prior to attending this school, I had completed extensive land navigation training in steep mountain terrain, hiked glaciers, and completed several multi-day trips. Nothing compared to the level of mountaineering we would endure during this course,” said the participating Airman from the 919th SOW. “They took what I had previously considered intense hiking and went vertical. While I had some experience, this school introduced an entirely new element: multi-pitch rock climbing.”

Beyond the tactical skills acquired, the training served as a vital platform to strengthen the strategic partnership between the United States and Argentina. U.S. Airmen trained alongside their Argentinean military counterparts, integrating into combined teams on dangerous terrain. This shared experience fostered mutual trust and “interoperability” — the ability for different nations’ militaries to work together seamlessly during a mission. The integration was so successful that one of the U.S. Airmen was voted by their classmates to receive the “Best Teammate Award,” a powerful testament to the camaraderie and mutual respect.

After initially graduating, both Air Commandos were invited to stay for the school’s instructor course. They both successfully graduated from this advanced cadre training and received an invitation from the Argentinean military to return as guest instructors for future iterations of the mountain school.

“When you look back at the legacy of the original Carpetbaggers in World War II, they forged new alliances through innovative intelligence and the drive to accomplish the impossible,” said Col. Zak Blom, 492nd SOW commander. “By mastering this course and becoming instructors alongside our Argentinean partners, these Airmen are writing the next chapter of that legacy — tackling challenges that haven’t been touched by U.S. forces in decades.”

Col. Scott Hurrelbrink, 919th SOW commander, echoed the significance of the accomplishment.

“What these Air Commandos achieved in Patagonia is nothing short of historic,” Hurrelbrink said. “By conquering this environment and bridging a two-decade gap with Argentina, they proved the unwavering strength and reach of our international alliances.”

Breaking a two-decade hiatus since the last U.S. military participation in 2006, these achievements signal a renewed and highly active commitment to military cooperation between the two nations. By sending Air Force Special Operations Command personnel to one of South America’s premier mountain warfare schools and having them recognized as elite instructors, the U.S. Air Force is reinvigorating critical alliances in the region.

The successful completion of this course and the follow-on instructor training by the 492nd and 919th SOW Airmen directly enhances the global posture of U.S. special operations forces. By mastering mobility, survival, and instruction in extreme mountain conditions alongside international partners, these Air Commandos ensure they remain adaptable, lethal, and fully prepared to lead complex missions in any climb and any place.

Story by Elizabeth Easterling and MSgt Jonathan D McCallum 

492d Special Operations Wing

Quantum Systems and Airbus to Cooperate on Integration of Counter-UAS Interceptors on Military Helicopters

Friday, June 12th, 2026

The strategic cooperation combines Airbus Helicopters’ military platforms with Quantum Systems’ counter-UAS technologies to strengthen European sovereign defence capabilities and address emerging airborne threats.

Berlin, 10 June 2026 – Airbus Helicopters and Quantum Systems have signed a cooperation agreement at ILA Berlin 2026 to jointly explore the integration of advanced counter-UAS (C-UAS) interceptors of Quantum Systems capabilities onto Airbus’ military helicopters, beginning with the multi-role H145M. This strategic partnership builds upon a shared commitment to enhancing Europe’s defence ecosystem and providing armed forces with agile, combat-ready solutions to counter modern, asymmetric airborne threats.

“At Airbus Helicopters, we are constantly exploring new frontiers in mission capabilities to bring real, decisive value to our customers. This agreement with Quantum Systems marks a crucial step forward in further expanding the operational spectrum of our military helicopters, ensuring that crews can effectively control the airspace against uncrewed threats. The H145M, with its advanced open system architecture and exceptional growth potential, serves as the ideal launching pad for this joint initiative. By combining our broad military helicopter portfolio with innovative C-UAS solutions, we are protecting personnel and assets as well as reinforcing European technological sovereignty and defence capabilities,” said Stefan Thomé, Executive Vice President Programmes at Airbus Helicopters.

“This cooperation demonstrates how Europe’s defence industry can combine complementary strengths to address emerging operational challenges. Together, Airbus and Quantum Systems are advancing the integration of crewed and uncrewed capabilities to build a more resilient and effective defence ecosystem. As a deep-tech prime for the unmanned era, our ambition is to support armed forces to gain a decisive technological advantage against increasingly sophisticated airborne threats.  Current developments show that unmanned systems offer solutions to drone threats,” said Martin Karkour, Chief Revenue Officer at Quantum Systems.

Airbus Helicopters has introduced an uncrewed version of the H145 family of helicopters, the U145, at ILA Berlin. On Airbus’ static display the U145 mockup already features Quantum Systems’ advanced C-UAS solution.

Direct Action at Eurosatory 2026

Friday, June 12th, 2026

New product launches, live gear configuration presentations, and special guests from SFU GROM. Direct Action® invites you to visit its booth at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris.

Direct Action® will be present at Eurosatory 2026, taking place on June 15–19, 2026, in Paris, France. The brand willshowcase its latest solutions developed for special operations forces, military personnel, and law enforcement professionals operating in demanding environments.

Eurosatory is one of the world’s leading defense and security exhibitions, bringing together manufacturers, military representatives, and end users from across the globe. For Direct Action®, the event is an opportunity to meet professionals, exchange experience, and present gear developed around real operational requirements.

Experience Based Gear from Poland

Direct Action® is a Polish brand created by professionals for professionals. All equipment is designed and manufactured in Poland, with product development driven by the experienceand requirements of special operations personnel.

The Individual-as-a-System philosophy allows users to build complete equipment configurations tailored to a specific role, mission profile, and operational environment. Plate carriers, belts, pouches, panels, and accessories form a scalable ecosystem that adapts to mission requirements rather than forcing the user to adapt to the gear.

SFU GROM Veterans at the Booth

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet three veterans of Poland’s elite special operations unit SFU GROM: Grzegorz “Zwiru” Urbanski, Amadeusz “Zelazny” Szyszka, and special guest Ziemowit “Harnaz” Urbanowicz.

Ziemowit “Harnaz” Urbanowicz is the creator of the Urban Knife Fighting system. Drawing on years of operational experience and a deep interest in edged-weapon employment, he will share practical insights into close-quarters combat and operating in urban environments.

Zwiru will conduct live Direct Action® gear configuration presentations, demonstrating the logic behind building mission-specific setups for different operational roles and environments. Visitors will have the opportunity to ask questions, exchange experiences, and see the Individual-as-a-System philosophy applied in practice.

Zelazny will share firsthand experience from using Direct Action® equipment during real-world missions, where reliability, accessibility, and control are mission-critical.

New Products and Gear Configurations

At Eurosatory 2026, Direct Action® will present its latest products and solutions developed for modern military and special operations users. Visitors will be able to explore equipment configurations built around platforms such as Spitfire®, Spitfire® MK II, Spitfire® QR, Hellcat®, and Bearcat®, while discovering additional configuration options and system capabilities.

Equipment Ready for New Challenges

No Direct Action® exhibition would be complete without new products. This year’s showcase includes medical solutions, casualty evacuation equipment, new additions to the Vanguardapparel line, and modular accessories that further expand operator capabilities. Each product has been designed around practical requirements: rapid access, equipment control, mobility, and performance under load.

Havoc Assault Medical Backpack – a compact medical backpack designed for SOF operators.
Medic Front Pouch – a front-flap-mounted medical pouch providing rapid access to medical equipment without removing a backpack.
Combat Stretcher Wrap – a compact carry solution for the Combat Stretcher, supporting casualty evacuation from buildings and confined spaces.
Tubular Rescue Wrap – a universal carrier for rescue strapsup to 6.5 meters in length.
Vanguard Softshell Jacket DA5 CS – a weather-resistant softshell featuring a hood, protective insert pockets, underarm ventilation, and unrestricted freedom of movement.
Vanguard Windshirt Jacket DA4 CS – an ultra-lightweight, highly packable windshirt.
Vanguard Waterproof Trousers DA6B CS – 3-layer waterproof trousers with a 25,000 mm waterproof rating, leg ventilation zippers, Cordura® 330D reinforcements, adjustable waist, and elastic suspenders.
Vanguard Waterproof Jacket DA6 CS – a 3-layer waterproof jacket featuring 25,000 mm waterproofing, 15,000 g/m²/24 h breathability, and a cut optimized for use with a plate carrier.
Vanguard Insulated Jacket DA3 CS – a Climashield® Apex insulated jacket designed to be worn over a plate carrier.
Spitfire QR Plate Carrier – a plate carrier equipped with Duraflex® QRS quick-release buckles on both the shoulders and cummerbund.
Knife Wing Attachment – a modular mounting platform for knives and other mission-essential equipment such as radios.

Event Information

Date: June 15–19, 2026
Booth: Hall 6, J25
Location: Paris, France

Strong and Clear – Across all Domains: Rheinmetall Showcases its Capabilities as an All Domain Power House at Eurosatory 2026 – From Land to Space

Thursday, June 11th, 2026

Under the motto “Strong and Clear – Across all Domains”, Rheinmetall will showcase its comprehensive portfolio of integrated capabilities for the multidimensional operations of the future at the Eurosatory 2026 trade fair. The leading systems provider will present solutions for networked effect generation across the land, air, sea and space domains, as well as the cyber and information domains.

Modern conflict scenarios require the seamless integration of actors, sensors, effectors, platforms and command and control capabilities. Rheinmetall pursues a holistic approach that combines digital networking, artificial intelligence, unmanned systems and classic core military capabilities into a resilient overall system. The aim is to achieve information and operational superiority in highly dynamic operational scenarios. To this end, Rheinmetall combines state-of-the-art sensor technology, digital command and control capabilities and scalable effectors along the entire chain of effects – from space-based reconnaissance to precision strikes on the battlefield.

Rheinmetall will be presenting a selection of its systems and capabilities for cross-domain operations at this year’s Eurosatory trade fair, taking place from 15 to 19 June 2026 in Paris. The event will feature numerous premieres:

Containerized Missile Launcher (CLM): The modular multiple launcher for the FV-014 Loitering Munition System is part of Rheinmetall’s integrated reconnaissance and strike system. We would be delighted to invite you to the world premiere on 15 June 2026 at 4.15 pm at our stand F115/F116.

Lynx KF41 armoured reconnaissance vehicle with Counter-UAS kit: The latest version of the Lynx KF41 contributes to battlefield transparency through its capabilities for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. The new Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems kit enables the Lynx KF41 to detect and counter drones at an early stage

155 mm L60 gun system, which is suitable for both wheeled and tracked self propelled howitzers and offers firing at long ranges.

MK35-E, a 35mm automatic cannon for infantry fighting vehicles and numerous other applications.

LongClaw, a next-generation lightweight glide bomb designed specifically for deployment by drones.

HX81 Heavy Equipment Transport: In collaboration with Nooteboom, the Rheinmetall Group offers a heavy-duty transporter for combat vehicles.

TG-Protected, a protected logistics truck of the TGS-Mil 8×8 type based on a commercially available platform.

Caracal 6×6 air assault vehicle: Developed in close collaboration with Mercedes-Benz and MAGNA I, the CARACAL 6×6 extends the proven W464 chassis with a third axle and a modular flatbed concept.

Komodo Unmanned Breaching System (UBS): The Komodo UBS unmanned breaching system combines Rheinmetall’s extensive expertise in engineering with DOK.ING’s proven unmanned platform technologies and Pearson Engineering’s highly specialised clearance capabilities.

Hermelin cUAS drone defence system, a modular hybrid platform that combines a reduced signature, long operational ranges and flexible mission adaptation in a future-oriented integrated system (manned-unmanned teaming) for the digitalised battlefield;

Kraken K3 Scout: With the Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) produced in series at Blohm+Voss, Rheinmetall, together with its British joint venture partner Kraken Technology, offers an unmanned surface platform for military and civilian applications.

Other Rheinmetall highlights at Eurosatory 2026 include:

Digitalisation and networking to achieve information superiority and ensure a highly efficient, rapid and simplified closure of the ODA loop. Rapid command and control processes, supported by digitalisation and artificial intelligence, enable a swift and appropriate response to any threat;

Lynx KF41 Skyranger 30, the modern anti-aircraft system with a 30mm machine cannon on tracks;

Fuchs JAGM, the next-generation missile tank destroyer for engaging ground and air targets. It is the world’s first vehicle equipped with 24 vertically launched guided missiles (AGM-179 Joint Air-to-Ground Missile or AGM-114L Hellfire Longbow from Lockheed Martin);

Destinus RUTA Block 2, a modern cruise missile for deep-strike capabilities, which is to be produced in Unterlüß in collaboration with Destinus, starting later this year;

Ragnarok Mortar Mission Module, a 120mm mortar system that can be integrated into numerous platforms and offers ‘shoot and scoop’ capabilities;

UGV Mission Master family: as part of the accompanying live demonstrations, the new and improved Mission Master SP2 and the Mission Master CXT2 will demonstrate their versatile capabilities in combat support and protection;

Tactical HX Truck Family, serving as the logistical backbone of NATO and its allies, or as a key capability provider for tactical applications, as well as supporting mast-mounted reconnaissance and communication tasks

Furthermore, at our stand we will be providing information on our activities in the field of ammunition expertise, logistical services in theatres of operation and on the home front, as well as our comprehensive protection expertise – ranging from passive armour to the Strike Shield active hard-kill system. We look forward to welcoming you to our stand F115/F116 in the outdoor area!

INVISIO Introduces Enhanced Drone Awareness Capability at Eurosatory 2026

Thursday, June 11th, 2026

Communications technology leader for mission?critical environments INVISIO is announcing a new capability in its INVISIO T30 headset that enhances the ability for users on the ground to identify drones earlier, without requiring any extra equipment. It allows personnel to keep their hands and eyes free to take counter measures, potentially saving lives and reducing injuries.

INVISIO Drone Aware™ provides an additional mode to the INVISIO T30 headset that enhances the user’s ability to hear the acoustic sound emitted by multi-rotor drones. This allows earlier awareness compared to listening with the ‘naked ear’. INVISIO Drone Aware™ is expected to be released in Q3 2026.

The announcement is significant given the ongoing impact of drones in the field, with UK Ministry of Defence saying that in Ukraine “drones now kill more people than traditional artillery”[1].

The INVISIO Drone Aware™ mode adds to the capabilities of the T30, which offers unlimited versatility in the field with zero compromise to sound quality, hearing protection and situational awareness. The T30 headset delivers market-leading hearing protection of 31 dB SNR / 33 dB NRSA20, combining passive hearing protection with active noise reduction (ANR), all while maintaining full situational awareness.

The headset connects to INVISIO control units as well as the specially designed INVISIO P30, a versatile Push-to-Talk (PTT). T30 also offers versatile power modes, operating as a standalone headset through AA batteries as well as being powered directly from radios and through control units including the V50 Gen II, V60 Gen II and P30. The headset can also be connected to digital devices such as smartphones and laptops.

INVISIO Drone Aware™ integrates directly into the headset, eliminating the need for extra equipment, allowing users to keep their hands and eyes free for effective counteraction. In addition, by simply adding a new situational awareness mode to a system the operator already knows, no extra training is required. As a passive system, it also ensures no RF emission – a must in the field.

INVISIO Drone Aware’s effectiveness in enhancing hearing and potential awareness of drones makes it potentially life-saving for users in Special Operations and other dismounted military.

Jonathan Wassberg, Product Manager of Headsets at INVISIO, said: “Becoming aware of a drone as early as possible is extremely important. Every second matters and every second gained increases the ability to better deploy counter measures for the exposure.”

“While different technologies are available for drone detection, including radar, optic and RF, the use of acoustic enhancement in the T30 headset is practical and effective, providing enhanced situational awareness for the drone threat and ensuring the end user has their hands and eyes free to counter such an attack.”

For more information about INVISIO Drone Aware™ and the T30 headset, visit the INVISIO booth (Hall 5A – C128) at Eurosatory, June 15–19 in Paris, or explore Invisio.com, or contact your local INVISIO representative.

[1] Source: www.gov.uk/government/news/major-5-billion-technology-investment-accelerates-uk-defence-innovation-in-a-european-first

Ops-Core, a Gentex Corporation Brand, Secures $16M Order Supporting Canadian Army Soldier Systems Program

Thursday, June 11th, 2026

CARBONDALE, PA – Gentex Corporation, under its Ops-Core® brand, today announced a $16 million order in support of the Canadian Army’s Directorate of Soldier Systems Program Management.

The order includes delivery of AMP® Communication Headsets equipped with the AMP Rail Mount Kit with Vent Mode, Near-Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) Earplugs, U94 Push-To-Talk (PTT) units, and AMP U174 Downleads, providing a fully integrated, mission-adaptable hearing protection and communications solution.

This award comes shortly after the January debut of the AMP Rail Mount Kit with Vent Mode at SHOT Show. Developed directly in response to end-user feedback, Vent Mode allows the earcups to shift slightly off the ears to improve airflow and mitigate heat buildup while maintaining effective communications and hearing protection when used with NFMI. The rapid adoption of this newly introduced capability highlights strong international demand and validates Gentex’s user-driven approach to innovation.

“Our allies continue investing in capabilities that improve soldier survivability and mission performance,” said Tom Short, Senior Vice President of Global Defense at Gentex Corporation. “The AMP Communication Headset delivers advanced hearing protection, exceptional situational awareness, and the modular adaptability required for modern operations. We’re proud to support the Canadian Army.”

Engineered for today’s dynamic operational environments, the AMP Communication System provides:

  • Advanced hearing protection against impulse and steady-state noise
  • Enhanced situational awareness through optimized audio clarity
  • Seamless integration with existing communications systems
  • Modular adaptability for mounted, dismounted, and specialized operations

By combining proven hearing protection with mission-configurable communications capability, the system supports the Canadian Army’s efforts to modernize soldier equipment and improve performance across operational environments.

This award expands the deployment of Ops-Core communication and hearing protection systems across NATO and allied forces, underscoring the growing demand for integrated solutions that enhance soldier survivability, situational awareness, and mission effectiveness in today’s complex operational environments.