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ISI Selected to Build the National Backbone for Israel’s Space Ecosystem

Sunday, January 11th, 2026

New national space R&D lab to enable inorbit demonstrations of startup and academic payloads on ISI satellites

January 06,2026, Israel, ImageSat International (TASE: ISI), a global leader in space-based intelligence solutions, announces that the Access to Space consortium, in which ISI is a member, has been selected by the Israel Space Agency at the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and the Israel Innovation Authority to establish and operate Israel’s national R&D space laboratory for the accelerated development of space technologies.

The consortium, led by Israeli space company Creation Space and joined by leading national academic institutions, including the Technion (Israel Institute of Technology) and Ben-Gurion University, will receive approximately 16million USD in governmental participation, including around 10.5 million USD in grants, for the establishment and operation of the laboratory.

The laboratory will enable Israeli start-ups and academic institutions to conduct technological demonstrations in space, including the launch of dedicated experimental payloads on board satellites that will be supplied, integrated, launched and operated by ISI. In addition, the laboratory will provide test infrastructures, as well as professional and engineering services and regulatory support, to make advanced space experimentation accessible to a broad range of Israeli developers.

“We are proud to be a significant part of the consortium selected to enable Israel’s space capabilities to grow and to further develop Israeli technological leadership in space,” said Noam Segal, CEO of ImageSat International. “With extensive experience in delivering end-to-end satellite solutions- from design and development to integration, launch, and mission operations , ISI is uniquely positioned to provide the professional infrastructure required for such a national space laboratory, enabling Israel and additional nations to remain at the forefront of space technology.”

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release, Space | Comments Off on ISI Selected to Build the National Backbone for Israel’s Space Ecosystem

DroneShield Renews Support for ADF Drone Racing Team for 2026

Saturday, January 10th, 2026

7 January 2026 – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-drone technology, today announced its continued support of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Drone Racing Team for 2026.

Building on a strong partnership showcased at Avalon 2025 and in previous years, DroneShield’s involvement with the ADF Drone Racing Team extends beyond traditional sponsorship. The?collaboration has focused on sharing expertise and fostering innovation in drone operations, including initiatives such as DroneShield pilots engaging with ADF Drone Racing activities to promote skills development and knowledge exchange.

Oleg Vornik, Chief Executive of DroneShield said, “The ADF Drone Racing Team continues to set the benchmark for advanced drone operations, and we’re proud to support their journey in?2026. This collaboration is about more than racing. It’s about building the skills and technologies that will define the next generation of Defence capability.”

Wing Commander Keirin Joyce, President of the ADF Drone Racing Team said, “Our partnership with DroneShield helps drive innovation across Defence. By combining the expertise of pilots from the ADF drone racing team with cutting-edge counter-drone technology, we create a unique environment for testing, learning, and advancing Australia’s operational edge.”

Image: ADF Drone Racing Team with DroneShield team

DroneShield’s continued support underscores its commitment to advancing Australian Defence initiatives that drive innovation and technical excellence. In March 2026, the ADF Drone Racing Team will defend its world title for a sixth time at the Military International Drone Racing Tournament in Sydney, further highlighting Australia’s leadership in drone technology and operational capability.

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New Carbine Options for UK Firearms Units – Updated

Friday, January 9th, 2026

Over the last week several press releases have come out claiming that their company’s rifle has been selected for use United Kingdom Police Firearms Units. Since there are more than one, it has naturally led to some confusion.

The truth of the matter is that six models in 5.56mm from different manufacturers were approved for purchase in a framework which allows the the 50 individual units or so, to select the firearm from a list which they feel is best for their use.

The carbines approved are:

– KAC ~~KS-1~~ KS-3

– Glock AR

– Beretta NARC

– IWI ~~Tavor~~ ARAD

– Colt Canada C8

– FN ASR

If the individual unit would like something else, they’ll have to run their own competition.

Finally, the framework did not include optics so units will have to either adapt what they already have or purchase new models.

update – we based the list on data we had received from industry sources in the UK and updated it once we were notified the list was inaccurate. No official announcement has been made.

Posted in Contracts, International, LE, weapons | 8 Comments »

Glock GR-115 Selected as the Weapon of Choice for UK Firearms Units

Friday, January 9th, 2026

London, UK — 9th January 2026 — Following the most extensive weapons trial conducted in UK policing in the past two decades, the GLOCK rifle GR-115 has been officially selected as the firearm of choice for specialist armed policing units across the country.

This decision marks a significant milestone in the evolution of armed policing capabilities in the UK. The GR-115 rifle outperformed a field of leading global manufacturers, achieving the highest scores for accuracy both supressed and unsuppressed.

A Legacy of Trust and Support

Glock has been a trusted partner to UK law enforcement since the 1990s, when GLOCK pistols were first adopted by police forces nationwide. Today, Glock continues to stand firmly behind UK policing, providing not only advanced firearms and long-term service but also training and logistical support.

Engineering at Its Core

The GR-115 rifle represents the culmination of years of intensive research, development, and refinement of the AR platform. Its superior accuracy, reliability, and adaptability are the result of rigorous testing and collaboration with end-users to ensure operational effectiveness in the most demanding environments.

Availability

The GR-115 rifle is only available to selected law enforcement and military customers at this time.

– Via Viking Defence

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Arktis Launches Next-Gen Vulcan Jacket V2 in PenCott GreenZone — Best-in-Class Insulation Meets Elite Camouflage

Thursday, January 8th, 2026

Arktis, the legendary British tactical gear brand, today announces the release of the Vulcan Jacket V2 in PenCott® GreenZone™, now available worldwide via the Arktis online store and authorized dealers.

Building on the acclaimed Vulcan platform, the Vulcan Jacket V2 delivers enhanced performance for operators and outdoor professionals who demand exceptional warmth, comfort, and concealment in challenging environments. Designed as a lightweight, packable insulating mid-layer, the V2’s refinements are the result of extensive user feedback and field testing.

Advanced Thermal Performance — Zero Bulk
Featuring premium PrimaLoft® Gold insulation, the Vulcan Jacket V2 balances thermal efficiency with breathability even when wet. With 100 gsm of insulation in the body and 60 gsm in the arms, the jacket delivers core warmth without unnecessarybulk. Its streamlined form enables the jacket to pack down into its own pocket — ideal for mobile operations, expeditions, or everyday carry.

User-Driven Design Enhancements
The V2 features newly added mesh-gusseted pit zips for rapid ventilation during high exertion, plus optimized pocket placement for faster access to essentials. Large front pockets offer dual-zip openings and internal compartments sized for mobile devices or comms gear. Concealed adjustment points ensure secure storage without interfering with weapons handling, while an adjustable hood offers complete coverage control.

Water-Resistant and Durable
Constructed with a windproof, water-resistant Nylon MiniRipouter and finished with a DWR coating, the Vulcan Jacket V2 is built to withstand adverse conditions without restricting movement or performance.

PenCott® GreenZone™ — Elite Camouflage Technology
The new Vulcan Jacket V2 is offered in PenCott® GreenZone™, one of the most effective multi-environment camouflage designs available today. Unlike other popular prints, PenCott® patterns use a hybrid 3-in-1 geometry that blends macro, midi, and micro elements to deliver exceptional concealment across close, mid, and long distances.

The omni-directional design orientation also combines depth, natural tones, and shape-disrupting features to confuse visual detection and help the wearer blend into real-world terrains more naturally and effectively than many traditional disruptive patterns — especially in verdant mixed vegetation environments.

Availability & Pricing

The Arktis Vulcan Jacket V2 — PenCott® GreenZone™ is now available for purchase online at the official Arktis store and through authorized dealers.

Posted in Camo, Clothing, International, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Framework Contract Extended: Bundeswehr Orders 30mm Ammunition for Puma Infantry Fighting Vehicles from Rheinmetall – New Order Worth Several Hundred Million Euros

Tuesday, January 6th, 2026

The Bundeswehr has once again placed an order with Rheinmetall for 30mm ammunition for Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs). The German Armed Forces placed the order for additional cartridges as part of an extended framework contract concluded in 2022. The new order is worth several hundred million euros.
In December 2022, the Bundeswehr signed a framework contract with Rheinmetall for the supply of 30mm x 173 ammunition for the Puma IFV. This framework contract, which runs until 2029, has now been extended in terms of delivery quantity and order volume. It provides for the delivery of several hundred thousand cartridges worth around €1 billion. At the same time, a medium six-figure quantity of ammunition was retrieved. The order intake amounts to several hundred million euros.

To strengthen its Puma fleet, the German Armed Forces recently commissioned joint venture partners Rheinmetall and KNDS Deutschland to supply 200 additional IFV’s. The Puma is equipped with Rheinmetall’s MK30-2/ABM (Airburst Munition) machine gun. It combines a high rate of fire with programmable state-of-the-art ammunition technology. This makes the MK30-2/ABM an extremely reliable and uncompromising weapon system. With an effective range of over 2,000 metres, the MK30-2/ABM is extremely powerful against land, air and sea targets.

Rheinmetall is a key supplier of combat ammunition to the Bundeswehr. The corporation produces and supplies two types of combat ammunition for the Puma IFV: KE-TF DM21 and KE DM33 in 30 mm x 173 calibre. Both types of ammunition have been developed and certified in accordance with the latest standards, offering unrivalled reliability, effectiveness, penetration and precision worldwide. The programmable KE-TF (Kinetic Energy Time Fuse) ammunition is highly reliable and enables the Puma IFV to engage larger soft and semi-hard surface targets, as well as drones.

The order underscores Rheinmetall’s position as a leading supplier of 30mm medium-calibre ammunition to the Bundeswehr. It reflects the armed forces’ efforts to replenish their stocks and increase their ammunition reserves in light of the current security situation. Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of medium-calibre ammunition.

Posted in Ammo, Contracts, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Framework Contract Extended: Bundeswehr Orders 30mm Ammunition for Puma Infantry Fighting Vehicles from Rheinmetall – New Order Worth Several Hundred Million Euros

Bundeswehr Birds Group – The New Innovation Network

Tuesday, January 6th, 2026

The army sends a clear signal: innovation should be created faster, closer to the force and much more effectively and implemented in practice in the future. The newly established Birds Group at the Heer command, the staff of the inspector, combines ideas from the associations with the innovation actors of the Bundeswehr.

In the future, the Birds Group will bundle the innovation potential of the German Army and put it under a uniform leadership. It is important to make new technologies, processes and ideas ready for use in a short time.(Bundeswehr/Marco Dorow)

The Birds Group becomes the central point of contact for unmanned systems, technical innovations and tactical testing in the field of land forces. The “look from above”, which provides an overview of a broad picture of the situation and provides the basis for decision-making, gives the group its name.

The structure that is being created is a decisive step towards more commitment and technological security for the future. The task of the Birds Group is to strengthen the innovation culture of the Bundeswehr through networking, expertise and openness to new solutions. How can this be realized?

Benefits for the entire Bundeswehr

The Birds Group is a hub at the highest management level in the army, which identifies innovations faster, bundles, coordinates with the other players outside the army and brings them into the area. The entire Bundeswehr is to benefit from this later, because successful approaches from the force become visible more quickly and can then be transferred to other areas. The German Army thus strengthens its role as a driver of innovation and puts the important ideas and suggestions that already exist in the force under a uniform leadership.

The Birds Group does not replace the responsibility of leadership at all levels as well as in the respective professionalism. In the future, it will promote exchange with key innovation actors of the Bundeswehr through its leadership mission and will make it easier to make new technologies, processes and ideas ready for use in a short time. In this way, it strengthens the ability of all sub-forces to go into future positions in a more modern, networked and action-proof manner.

by PIZ Heer

Posted in Drone, Guest Post, International | Comments Off on Bundeswehr Birds Group – The New Innovation Network

Helikon-Tex Raid Shirt, MCDU Pant & Boonie Now Available in ERDL

Monday, January 5th, 2026

Made from Polycotton Stretch Ripstop (48% cotton, 50% polyester, 2% elastane) the Raid Shirt features raglan sleeves and a total of 8 pockets:

2 angled, zippered chest pockets
2 mesh inner pockets
2 sleeve pockets
2 small pockets for small items

Offered in sizes XS – 3XL.

Aside from ERDL, there are a variety of colors and patterns available for the shirt including Woodland, Tiger, PL Woodland, Duck Hunter, and Brush.

The MCDU Pant is a great pairing for the Raid Shirt. Made from the same base fabric for range of motion the pant is also features Versastrech material at the waist, crotch, and back of the knees which dries quickly and is highly breathable.

The knee area is reinforced with 500D Cordura fabric with slots for protective inserts. Thanks to additional drawstrings located under the knee and at the bottom of the leg, the pants can be easily adjusted to the leg.

The pants are only available in Woodland, Tiger, DNC, and ERDL.

Look for sizes XS – XL.

Once again made from the same material, the Boonie Mk2 is designed to be a companion for the Raid shirt. It’s lightweight with a signal panel insert inside the crown. It’s also available in the same colors and patterns as the Raid Shirt.

Posted in Advertiser, Camo, Clothing, International | 3 Comments »