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Archive for the ‘International’ Category

Lockheed Martin’s HIMARS and PrSM Selected for the Australian Army’s LAND 8113 Phase 2 solution for a Second Long-Range Fires Regiment

Monday, May 4th, 2026

Australian High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) fires Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) (Credit: Australian Department of Defence)

CANBERRA, 2 May 2026 – Lockheed Martin Australia welcomed the Australian Government’s decision to select the company’s capabilities for the Australian Army’s Project LAND 8113 Phase 2.

Lockheed Martin Australia will supply an additional tranche of High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers equipped with Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM), delivering an unmatched anti-access/area denial capability to the Australian Defence Force.

“Our HIMARS-PrSM offering is the right fit for the modern war fighter and meets the Army’s requirements for capability, performance, range and offers interoperability benefits of common training, common operations, and common software through Common Fire Control Systems,” said Jeremy King, Chief Executive, Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand.

“We are proud to deliver our HIMARS and PrSM capability for the Australian Army’s Second Long Range Fires Regiment,” King said.

The decision fully leverages the Australian Government’s previous investment in 42 HIMARS and commitment to the PrSM program—supporting the system until at least 2050.

The combination of HIMARS and PrSM provides a proven, scalable and rapidly deployable system that will provide unmatched long-range strike and deterrence options for Australia

Equipping a Second Long?Range Fires Regiment with PrSM will provide a decisive edge, enabling land forces to conduct long?range Land Based Maritime Strikes in close coordination with Australia’s key security partners.

The Lockheed Martin HIMARS launcher, which the Australian Army has fielded since 2025, has an outstanding record of combat-proven reliability. HIMARS improves response times and meets mission-critical needs with leap-ahead technology.

More than 750 HIMARS are fielded worldwide, with more than two million operating hours. They can fire a suite of next-generation munitions including Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS), Extended-Range GMLRS and PrSM.

James Heading, Director and General Manager of Missiles and Fire Control, Lockheed Martin Australia, said, “PrSM will provide the Australian Army with a credible, Land-Based Maritime Strike capability that far exceeds the range of alternative systems. It will enable the Army to hold maritime targets at risk, at extended ranges exceeding 400 kilometres.”

With the nation’s long?range fires capability expanding, sustaining operational readiness, resilience and value for money have become top priorities. Lockheed?Martin Australia is evaluating options to deliver long?term support. The company is exploring sustainment opportunities with Rheinmetall Defence Australia, which will generate opportunities for Australian Small to Medium-sized Enterprises and create local jobs.

G3 Systems Celebrates 25 years of Infrastructure Support to Austere Overseas Environments

Friday, May 1st, 2026

This April, G3 Systems reaches its 25th Anniversary of delivering operationally proven expertise in the design and delivery of deployable and fixed infrastructure solutions to austere overseas environments, a significant milestone for the company. This achievement, combined with just completing 4 years of diverse infrastructure support to the South Atlantic Permanent Joint Operating Bases (PJOBs) adds yet another chapter to the G3 Systems’ story.

G3 Systems has a long and distinguished history of providing excellent infrastructure support, project management and facilities management to UK & NATO forces and government departments, deployed in austere and high-risk operations around the world. From providing the fire-fighting services for all the international airfields of Afghanistan (Kabul, Herat, Mazar-e-Sharif and Kandahar), to constructing and operating complex technical facilities and infrastructure globally. This includes hospitals, power generation and distribution, Command and Control facilities and workshops, along with a full range of deployable infrastructure capabilities. G3 Systems has a mission-focused attitude which mirrors that of the deployed forces they support, delivering high-quality outcomes on time and to budget.

For the last 3 years, G3 Systems has been deployed in the South Atlantic as a sub-contractor to the Permanent Joint Operating Base (PJOB) prime to enhance the Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (RFFS) on Ascension Island and for the last 4 years, led on a significant schedule of diverse infrastructure upgrade work at Mount Pleasant Complex (MPC) in the Falkland Islands. These projects were vital to ensure that technical and non-technical infrastructure and facilities are fully compliant with modern legislation, safe and upgraded to be fit for purpose without impacting operations. Over this period, G3 Systems has completed over 230 projects at MPC and consistently provided high-quality RFFS services on a 24/7 365 basis to help protect Ascension Island, a key UK strategic asset.

Nick Rose, Managing Director of G3 Systems said, “As we reflect on over 25 years of G3 Systems history and direct support to the British military deployed overseas on operations, from Iraq and Afghanistan in the early 2000’s, through to today in the South Atlantic, I am immensely proud of what the teams have achieved in the most remote and often demanding of conditions. We currently have complex infrastructure projects and facility support contracts running all over the world in support of the FCDO and British military. With the backing of our parent company Intrepid, who are also experts in supporting facilities and providing professional services for the US military, we have the scale and reach to reinforce globally as needed, and therefore G3 Systems is fully prepared to take on a more strategic role in supporting overseas operating bases, in the future.”

UK Defence Textile Collaboration Formed Between Pincroft Dyeing & Printing and Toray Textiles Europe Ltd

Thursday, April 30th, 2026

Adlington, United Kingdom: As the UK Government looks to secure a resilient domestic supply chain, Pincroft Dyeing & Printing and Toray Textiles Europe Ltd have responded to the need for printed woven technical textiles for the UK defence sector. Both companies are established suppliers to NATO military programmes and are now well positioned to support UK defence requirements.

Strategically located in the Northwest of England, Pincroftoperates one of Europe’s largest fully integrated textile processing, printing and finishing facilities. Exporting to more than 80 countries and with an annual production capacity exceeding 50 million metres, the company has built a strong reputation in military printing and flame retardant finishing. Armed forces around the world already wear uniforms made with fabrics processed at Pincroft.

Toray Textiles Europe Ltd is a leading technical textile manufacturer specialising in the weaving, dyeing and finishing of synthetic fibre textiles across defence, medical and industrial applications. A recent investment of more than £15 million in advanced looms and process machinery has further strengthened its capability to support future demand.

Paul Farrell, Group Sales Director at Pincroft, said: “Leveraging our combined expertise and innovation, alongside our UK-based operations and supply chains, Pincroft and Toray are well placed to support the shared goals of strengthening national security, driving economic growth and improving sustainability.”

Paul Daynes, Sales Manager at Toray Textiles Europe Ltd, added: “Pincroft and Toray operate at a scale capable of delivering national programmes while manufacturing a high-quality UK product. This collaboration supports employment across the manufacturing sector and helps build a resilient domestic supply chain for our armed forces.”

Both businesses were honoured to receive a visit from HRH The Princess Royal as President of the UK Fashion & Textile Association in 2025 which underscored the significant investment they have both made in their respective weaving, dyeing, finishing and printing capabilities, as well as increasing capacity at both sites.

Adam Mansell, CEO of the UK Fashion and Textile Association has welcomed this new defence textiles collaboration and said: “The UK already sells to major forces across the world, from the Netherlands, Germany and France, across to Australia and New Zealand, so why not the UK? The UK MOD and other UK procurement agencies need to be incentivised, or required, to source more of their products from reliable UK sources and see the bigger UK industrial picture.”

PenCott-GreenZone A220 Mammoth Shirt from Arktis

Tuesday, April 28th, 2026

PenCott® camouflage patterns are at their best when they’re paired with professional kit that’s built to last – like the new A220 Mammoth Shirt from Arktis.

An evolution of their iconic original Mammoth Shirt, the A220 has been refined for operators who need dependable reliability in harsh conditions. Among its standout features is a concealed hood that packs into the collar and deploys instantly when temperatures drop and wind, drizzle, or snow squalls roll in without warning.

Behind the water-repellent GreenZone™ ripstop exterior, Arktis has paired a rugged fibre-pile lining that’s warm, tough, and field-proven. The fit has been updated too — broader in the body for layering, with improved shoulder and sleeve movement. Body armour compatible as standard.

Key features:

  • Concealed emergency hood
  • Water-resistant PenCott® GreenZone™ ripstop outer
  • Fibre-pile lining
  • Two-way side ventilation zips
  • Document compartment & hand-warmer pockets
  • Velcro-adjustable cuffs
  • Body armour compatible

Available now from Arktis in sizes XS–XXXL: store.arktis.co.uk/products/mammoth-shirt-with-concealed-emergency-hood-3

Check out the full collection of GreenZone products from Arktis at: store.arktis.co.uk/collections/pencott-greenzone

Billion-Euro Contract for Rheinmetall: Bundeswehr Calls Off Further IdZ-ES Soldier-Systems

Monday, April 27th, 2026

Rheinmetall has received another Billion-euro-contract from the Bundeswehr in the field of soldier-systems. The Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) has placed a call-off order with Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH for additional ‘Infantry Soldier of the Future – Enhanced System’ (IdZ-ES) soldier-systems under a framework agreement. 

The contract covers the modernisation of existing systems and the delivery of additional 237 platoon systems. It is worth €1.04bn gross. The systems have are to be delivered between November 2027 and December 2029. Additional 8,600 soldiers will receive the IdZ-ES system. In total, the Bundeswehr will then be equipped with 353 platoon systems comprising over 12,000 individual sets of equipment. Awarded in April, the contract will be booked in the second quarter of 2026. In total, the German Bundestag has approved €1.3 billion for the project a few days ago, so further call-offs are expected.

One platoon system mainly comprises 35 individual soldier-systems and a platoon equipment of peripheral components, consisting of advanced IT-equipment, optics, optronics, as well as military clothing, protection and carrying equipment. As the general contractor, Rheinmetall is responsible for the system and is coordinating the contribution of more than 30 subcontractors.

In February of 2025, the BAAINBw signed a framework contract with Rheinmetall for the procurement of additional IdZ-ES systems, with a maximum value of €3.1bn gross. The contract runs until the end of 2030 and already included a firm order for the modernisation of 68 systems already in use and the procurement of 24 new platoon systems worth around €417m gross. This framework contract for the procurement of soldier-systems is the largest of its kind to date for both Rheinmetall and BAAINBw. 
Digital soldier-systems play an increasingly important role in future digital battlefield operations. The Bundeswehr can thus initiate the proportionate refurbishment, manufacturing and delivery of further IdZ-ES platoon systems, as well as the procurement of numerous additional components and services.

The commissioned modernised design status eliminates all technically obsolete components and implements communication and data exchange capabilities with different vehicle platforms. With the revised base hardware, the soldier system is connected via the vehicle platform to the ‘Digitisation of Land-based Operations’ (D-LBO) information and communications network. Furthermore, the conditions for direct connection to D-LBO have been established.

Lindnerhof Expands Portfolio with Magazine Pouches, Utility Solutions and Chest Rig

Monday, April 27th, 2026

LENGGRIES, GERMANY (24 April 2026)

Lindnerhof, a tactical gear manufacturer specialising in load-carrying systems and part of Mehler Systems, is expanding its portfolio with a new range of pouches and load-carrying solutions. The release includes magazine pouches for common calibre systems, administrative and multi-purpose pouches, a tourniquet solution, and a one-piece chest rig. In total, ten new products have been developed for professional use.

Lindnerhof, a tactical gear manufacturer and part of Mehler Systems, is expanding its portfolio with a new range of pouches and load-carrying solutions. The release includes magazine pouches, administrative and multi-purpose pouches, a tourniquet solution, and a one-piece chest rig, developed for professional use.

Magazine Pouches

The new range of magazine pouches covers common calibre systems, including HK417/G28 and 5.56 mm STANAG and AUG magazines. Designed for secure retention and fast access, the pouches feature integrated clips and optional Alpha Tabs to ensure consistent hold and controlled handling under demanding conditions. Elastic side walls adapt to different magazine dimensions, while slim PALS webbing enables straightforward integration into existing MOLLE/PALS systems. Single and triple configurations provide flexibility across different loadout requirements.

Medical and Utility Solutions

The portfolio includes a dedicated tourniquet pouch designed for secure storage and immediate accessibility, supporting one-handed operation when required.

Administrative and multi-purpose pouches extend functionality with solutions for organisation, storage, and equipment management. Features such as transparent compartments, modular hook-and-loop surfaces, and flexible attachment options support efficient access and adaptability across different operational setups.

Multi-Purpose Pouches

A range of vertical and horizontal pouches provides scalable storage for hydration systems, communication devices, and additional equipment. Integrated routing options for cables or drinking tubes, combined with protective elements such as reverse zippers and drain ports, ensure reliable performance in demanding environments.

Chest Rig MX267

The one-piece MX267 chest rig offers a modular platform for a wide range of configurations. A padded, size-adjustable carrying system supports comfort during extended use, while full-surface MOLLE/PALS compatibility and internal hook-and-loop fields enable flexible setup. The system can be integrated into existing equipment using the RMPL144 plate carrier adapter set.

With this release, Lindnerhof continues to expand its modular portfolio for professional use. For more information, visit Lindnerhof at lindnerhof-taktik.de.

Team LionStrike Joins Team Forces as a Platinum Level Partner

Sunday, April 26th, 2026

Team LionStrike has joined Team Forces as a platinum-level partner, reinforcing its commitment to the U.K. Armed Forces community through sport, challenge and adventure.

Team Forces is a U.K. charity supporting serving personnel, veterans and families through sport, challenge and adventure to improve health, well-being and recovery. Team LionStrike will headline-sponsor the British Army Motorsport Association (BAMA) motorcycling team and support Forces’ motorsport athletes during the 2026 superbike season.

Formed by GM Defence together with its subcontractors BAE Systems and NP Aerospace, Team LionStrike is responding to a requirement to deliver an OEM-backed, U.K.-based solution to the U.K.’s Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) programme—supporting potential U.K. jobs and export opportunities.

“Joining Team Forces at platinum level underlines our commitment to the U.K. Armed Forces community,” said Gilbert Nelson, Vice President, International Sales & Marketing, GM Defence U.K.

“We chose Team Forces because it delivers tangible social value through armed forces sport, challenge and adventure—an authentic give-back to serving personnel and veterans that aligns with our role as headline sponsor for Army Motorsport and our performance-driven vehicle capabilities.”

The partnership also provides a community-facing platform that reflects Team LionStrike’s industrial investment in the U.K., linking its next-generation mobility solutions with the people and programmes they support.

“Welcome to Team Forces,” said Major General Lamont Kirkland, CEO of Team Forces. “Joining at platinum level is a significant commitment from Team LionStrike. We look forward to working together to deliver measurable impact for our military community—and meaningful engagement and exposure in return.”

The partnership will be felt most directly in Army Motorsport, where Team LionStrike’s backing will help sustain and grow a high-performance programme that showcases the Army’s skill, innovation and resilience on and off the track.

“We are delighted to welcome Team LionStrike and grateful for their investment in Army Motorsport,” said Colonel Rich Hall, MBE, Head of Partnerships for Army Motorsport. “Their support strengthens a programme that reflects the Army’s values and technical excellence. Together, we can broaden youth engagement, improve our storytelling and better connect our riders, engineers and communities—creating more opportunity and visibility for Army Motorsport than ever before. Thank you.”

Rheinmetall Kraken GmbH Launches Series Production of Maritime Unmanned Systems in Hamburg

Friday, April 24th, 2026

Series production of the Kraken K3 Scout has begun at Rheinmetall’s Blohm+Voss site in Hamburg. With the market-ready unmanned surface vessel (USV), Rheinmetall’s new Naval Systems division—together with its British joint venture partner Kraken Technology Group—offers a surface platform for both military and civilian applications. Depending on the configuration, the vessels can be used for maritime surveillance, protection of critical infrastructure, or as weapons carriers in military operations. 

The joint venture established last year between Rheinmetall Naval Systems and the British tech company Kraken Technology Group will now operate under the name “Rheinmetall Kraken GmbH.” The partnership addresses the growing global demand for market-available unmanned platforms of various sizes.

Production of the systems—which are capable of speeds of up to 55 knots, measure 8.4 metres in length, and are individually configurable—takes place at Rheinmetall’s shipyard Blohm+Voss in Hamburg, a site that the Düsseldorf-based company is developing into Germany’s leading test and technology centre for unmanned and autonomous marine systems.

“Production of the Kraken K3 Scout is initially designed for around 200 units per year. Depending on the order volume, we can scale up production to as many as 1,000 units annually,” says Tim Wagner, CEO of Rheinmetall’s Naval Systems division. With five locations in Germany, the Naval Systems division specialises in the construction of complex naval and coast guard vessels and is a pioneer in the development of unmanned and autonomous surface systems.

Mal Crease, CEO of Kraken Technology Group said: “The formation of Rheinmetall Kraken GmbH combines the scale, expertise and reach of a longstanding defence leader with an agile, innovative maritime technology company.  This will ensure that production of Kraken’s K3 Scout can scale to meet exponentially growing operational requirements.”

Kraken Technology Group develops high-performance and cost-efficient unmanned maritime systems. Through the joint venture, they benefit from the extensive production and integration capabilities of the Rheinmetall Naval Systems division.