Rheinmetall has received a major order from the Bundeswehr for FV-014 loitering munition systems. A contract to that effect was signed today in Koblenz. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2027, following qualification from the second quarter of 2026. The framework contract is worth billions, with the first call-off amounting to approximately €300m gross. The order will be booked in April 2026. The framework agreement optionally includes a five-figure number of FV-014 autonomous recce and strike drones.
“Within a very short time, Rheinmetall has developed an autonomous drone that combines reconnaissance and strike capabilities. The FV-014 will enable the Bundeswehr to protect its own forces and engage critical targets in a fast, controlled and effective manner. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and will begin producing the system in large quantities on an industrial scale very soon”, said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG.
The FV-014 loitering munition system has a range of up to 100 km and is equipped with a 4 kg warhead and detonator mechanism. The drone can remain airborne for up to 70 minutes, monitoring targets until engaging on them. The system combines intelligence and firepower and is manufactured entirely within the EU.
Tiberius Aerospace, a modern defence technology company built to empower the UK, US and their global allies with next-generation weapon systems and AI-powered solutions, has successfully demonstrated, for the first time, that a liquid-fuelled ramjet projectile can be launched from a NATO-standard 155mm howitzer, achieve ramjet ignition and perform as intended in flight. This liquid fuel breakthrough, achieved during recent test firings of its Sceptre system in New Mexico, represents a fundamental shift in what artillery systems are capable of delivering on the modern battlefield.
Sceptre is a 155mm precision-guided munition designed for full compatibility with existing NATO-standard artillery systems. The latest round of testing confirmed that it can reach ranges of up to 150 kilometres, travel at speeds of approximately Mach 3.5 and operate at altitudes exceeding 65,000 feet beyond typical jamming range. It delivers a 5.2kg payload with a circular error probability (CEP) of less than 5 metres, even in GPS-contested environments, and requires no modifications to current artillery platforms. The system is designed with a modular, open architecture that allows for continuous upgrades and uses widely available fuels such as diesel variants (JP-4 and JP-8), reducing the logistical burden associated with deployment.
A critical milestone in these trials was the successful ignition of the liquid-fuelled ramjet following exposure to launch forces of approximately 18,000 g, alongside the validation of stable flight dynamics, controlled rotation and the effective deployment of in-flight stabilisation systems.
Together, these results demonstrate that the technology is not only viable in theory but can function reliably in operationally relevant conditions. In practical terms, this successful test firing shows that it is now possible to combine the long range and speed typically associated with missile systems with significant cost savings, flexibility and the deployability of traditional artillery. This creates a new category of capability that sits between conventional artillery and high-end missile systems, addressing a long-standing gap in military capability.
While missile systems provide range and accuracy, they remain expensive and constrained in supply. Conventional artillery, by contrast, is scalable and cost-effective but limited in range and capability. Sceptre bridges this gap by offering missile-like performance while retaining the production advantages and flexibility of artillery systems. When enabled by Tiberius Aerospace’s AI-powered GRAIL platform, Sceptre has the potential to materially increase the volume of precision firepower available to allied forces, reduce reliance on high-cost missile inventories and enable faster, more scalable production at a time when industrial capacity is under strain. Crucially, the system is designed to support licensed domestic manufacturing, enabling allied nations to produce Sceptre within their own industrial base, strengthening sovereign capability, shortening supply chains and accelerating time to field. It also supports a shift towards more resilient, sovereign and distributed manufacturing models across allied defence ecosystems.
Chad Steelberg, Founder and CEO of Tiberius Aerospace, said: “This is a genuine world first breakthrough. These tests prove not only the technology, but a new way of delivering capability at pace, at scale and at significantly lower cost. Having successfully proved our design and engineering methodologies, we now need to move to much larger ranges to deliver the next phase of testing, validation and certification. Sceptre is an ambitious and complex project, but these successful US test firing results prove we are quickly advancing along the right trajectory.”
I found this image online of a British SA80 equipped with the Strategic Sciences Corporation Multi Function Muzzle Device, an innovative 3D printed suppressor recently adopted by the Canadian Armed Forces for use on their new Canadian Modular Assault Rifle.
Due to its over the barrel dosing, it only adds 1″ to the overall length.
Exploiting enemy communications has never been more important for New Zealand Army Electronic Warfare Operators. As warfare continues to evolve technologically, maintaining their technical abilities, tactical mindset and overall fitness is imperative.
21 APRIL, 2026
As enemy troops advance up the southern coast of the fictional island of Panay, an Anzac Battle Group has mobilised in response.
As the two forces prepare to stand-off along the main road artery north, a smaller team of NZ Army specialist Electronic Warfare Operators skirt around the Western flank.
Working alongside an infantry company their mission is to destroy enemy reconnaissance assets and deny them the opportunity to gather their intelligence.
That was the aim of Exercise Raven Dawn held recently in South Canterbury, where NZ Army soldiers gained the advantage in the recon space, which according to Lieutenant S, Officer in Charge of the exercise, is vital for any mission success.
“A Radio Reconnaissance Team (RRT) can provide a wide range of recon and intelligence support,” said Lieutenant S.
“They observe, identify, and report on enemy activities within the electromagnetic spectrum to support commanders in gaining an advantage. Their information can provide immediate warning of imminent enemy action, support targeting of enemy locations and feed into a combined intelligence picture.”
The main purpose of the exercise was to put new Electronic Warfare Operators through their paces on radio reconnaissance operations, with three teams of six operators working together during the scenario.
Lieutenant S said it’s difficult, challenging work with operators carrying up to 50kg packs through difficult terrain. But no matter the physical toll, they cannot lose focus as they operate in forward, vulnerable areas.
“They are exposed to enemy reconnaissance teams and drones, and so strict adherence to noise, light and thermal signature discipline is imperative,” Lieutenant S said.
“Beyond the physical fitness and understanding of our own equipment, they also have to be aware of enemy operations and doctrine, have an in-depth understanding of the electromagnetic spectrum and enemy communication practices, and be able to effectively communicate all of that back to their commanders.”
Fictional enemy forces in the exercise utilised unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to survey the area looking for the Kiwi operators, and they would identify personnel if not camouflaged well enough.
Which is where the hide comes in.
“Building an effective hide demands an in-depth understanding of why and how things are seen in the bush,” said Lieutenant S.
“A well-camouflaged hide will break up the shape of its occupants, utilise natural materials to blend in and allow for effective employment of claymore mines and the detachment machine gun to repel enemy. It’s effectively a gillie suit but for a team of six, including their weapon systems and electronic warfare equipment.”
Commanding Officer of 1st Command Support Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Emily Hume said it’s vital for signallers and Electronic Warfare Operators to keep pushing their abilities in testing, challenging conditions, for which there is no better test than New Zealand terrain.
“Operating across the full signals and electronic warfare spectrum demands technical mastery, tactical awareness, and the resilience to adapt under pressure,” Lieutenant Colonel Hume said.
“Equally important are the fundamental soldiering skills—navigation, endurance, teamwork, and fieldcraft—that underpin our ability to fight, survive, and support the force in any environment.”
Ottawa, ON – April 22, 2026 — RAMPART Corp., Canada’s leading supplier of operational equipment to military and Law Enforcement end users, has been awarded a $39 million CAD contract to supply the Canadian Federal Police with a new duty pistol system.
The Federal Police Service operates in some of the most diverse and challenging environments, from remote northern regions to densely populated urban centers.
Following a competitive procurement process led by Public Services and Procurement Canada, Rampart has been awarded a contract to supply the police service with the GLOCK 45 MOS 7. The system includes the Aimpoint ACRO P2 red dot sight, Streamlight TLR-7X weapon light, and Safariland 6360RDS holster, delivering significant advancements in accuracy, reliability, and operational capability.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement for RAMPART and our partners,” said Mike Klein, President of RAMPART Corp. “Once fielded, GLOCK pistols will be used by nearly 95% of Canadian Law Enforcement personnel.”
“GLOCK is extremely proud to be providing police officers with our pistol,” stated James R. Cassells, Canadian Sales Manager for GLOCK. “I know our late founder, Gaston Glock, would have been very proud that GLOCK was awarded this contract.”
The new pistol system includes:
• Pistol: GLOCK 45 MOS 7
• Red Dot Sight: Aimpoint ACRO P2
• Weapon Light: Streamlight TLR-7X
• Night Sights: Ameriglo
• Duty Holster: Safariland 6360RDS
• Pistol Case: NANUK 910
• The contract also includes dedicated GLOCK 45 training pistols.
More information on the contract can be found here:
INKAS® is proud to announce the release of its first-ever armored Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion into next-generation ultra-luxury vehicle platforms.
As one of the most refined SUVs in the world, the Cullinan Series II represents the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship. INKAS® enhances this platform with a fully integrated armoring solution, engineered to deliver comprehensive protection while preserving the vehicle’s original design, performance, and driving experience.
At the core of the build is a precision-engineered armored capsule, providing 360° ballistic protection through the integration of certified ballistic steel, multi-layer armored glass, and advanced overlap systems. These systems are designed to eliminate vulnerable gaps, ensuring consistent protection across all critical areas of the vehicle.
Unlike conventional armored vehicles, the INKAS® Cullinan Series II maintains a completely discreet appearance. Without any visible modifications interfering with the exterior styling or interior refinement, allowing occupants to benefit from enhanced security without drawing attention.
“Armoring a vehicle like the Cullinan Series II requires a meticulous balance between protection and preservation,” said David Khazanski, CEO of INKAS®. “Our engineering approach ensures that every protective element is seamlessly integrated, maintaining the integrity of Rolls-Royce design while delivering the level of security our clients expect.”
To support the added weight of the armoring system, INKAS® upgrades critical performance components, including suspension and braking systems, ensuring the vehicle retains its smooth handling characteristics and ride quality. Each vehicle undergoes rigorous quality control and testing processes to meet international armoring standards and internal performance benchmarks.
This latest release reflects INKAS®’s continued commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and client-focused engineering. By combining advanced protection technologies with one of the world’s most prestigious luxury platforms, INKAS® delivers a solution that enhances both safety and long-term vehicle value.
Mehler Systems, a global leader in ballistic protection and tactical gear solutions, has signed a share sale and purchase agreement to acquire a major stake in Craig International Ballistics (CIB). The acquisition is still pending approval under the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act of Australia.
Following the transaction, Craig International Ballistics will become part of the Mehler Systems Group – joining the group as a trusted partner. CIB will work closely with Mehler Protection’s body and platform armour divisions while continuing to operate under its established brand and local leadership. Headquartered in Queensland, the Australian company is a leading manufacturer of personal protective equipment and ballistic protection solutions for land, air and maritime platforms.
The investment strengthens Mehler Systems’ commercial footprint and customer proximity in the Asia-Pacific region, enabling Mehler Systems to address local requirements and service needs even more effectively. At the same time, it expands the group’s global reach and reinforces its position as a provider of high-quality, technologically advanced protection systems. The CIB site in Queensland will also serve as a key manufacturing, production and innovation hub within the group for customers in the Southern Hemisphere, supporting Mehler Systems’ international growth.
The investment strengthens Mehler Systems’ commercial footprint and customer proximity in the Asia-Pacific region, enabling us to address local requirements and service needs even more effectively. At the same time, it expands the group’s global reach and reinforces its position as a provider of high-quality, technologically advanced protection systems. The CIB site in Queensland will also serve as a key manufacturing, production and innovation hub within the group for customers in the Southern Hemisphere, supporting Mehler Systems’ international growth.
Commenting on the acquisition, Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems, said: “With Craig International Ballistics, we are welcoming an established Australian provider with a proven track record in supporting sovereign defence capabilities. By combining CIB’s strong presence and long-standing customer relationships in Australia with Mehler Systems’ portfolio, we will be able to serve customers in the Asia-Pacific region even more closely and respond to local requirements with enhanced speed, support and service. We gain direct access to existing programmes and relationships with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and other government clients, while also expanding our global reach. This investment is intended to geographically diversify our customer base, increase the resilience of our supply chains, and accelerate Mehler Systems’ development as a globally recognised provider of protection systems.”
In recent years, CIB has significantly expanded its manufacturing and technological capabilities, substantially increasing its capacity for complex ballistic protection solutions. Its modern production facilities and in-house testing and development capabilities enable the company to rapidly develop, trial and bring new protection concepts into series production. At the same time, APAC markets are seeing rising demand for modular, weight optimised protection systems for armed forces, government agencies and critical infrastructure.
James Craig, CEO of Craig International Ballistics, outlines the company’s approach: “With our broad range of ballistic protection plates for naval, aerospace and structural applications, we have contributed to Australia’s sovereign protection capabilities for many years, delivering solutions that integrate seamlessly into international programmes. The close integration of research, development, manufacturing and testing enables us to swiftly adopt new materials and production techniques. Together with Mehler Systems, we will be able to deliver high-performance, weight-optimised protection solutions for the APAC region and beyond even more quickly in future.”
This development culture fits seamlessly into Mehler Systems’ own technology roadmap. With the acquisition of a major stake in Craig International Ballistics, Mehler Systems is pursuing long term growth based on clearly defined security and industrial policy principles: regional anchoring, technical excellence and reliable partnerships with customers and public authorities.
Posted in Armor, Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Mehler Systems Signed a Share and Purchase Agreement for the Acquisition of a Major Stake in the Leading Australian Armour Systems Manufacturer Craig International Ballistics
Software-defined cameras and AI framework expands drone coverage 100x, with deployments planned for frontline operations in Ukraine and other contested environments
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, April 14, 2026 — Sapient Perception ApS, which builds physical AI sensor systems for UAVs, has raised a €2M pre-seed round co-led by Balnord and FORWARD.one. The Danish startup will utilize the capital to accelerate development of the company’s software-defined cameras and AI framework that enable mission-critical decision-making and autonomy through large area perception. The round will also assist in growing its engineering team, and supporting initial deployments with customers across the defense, security, and emergency response industries.
Founded by Anthony Garetto (CEO), Lau Norgaard (CTO), and Michael Messerschmidt (CBO), Sapient Perception is focused on solving a fundamental visibility challenge in modern UAV operations. Drones capture more images and data than ever, but bandwidth limitations force a tradeoff between imaging coverage and resolution. Operators are constantly switching views to compensate.
Sapient addresses this problem with first-of-its-kind 10K sensors that cover up to 100 times larger areas than conventional sensors at the same detailed resolution in a single frame. Meanwhile, its novel edge processing pipeline enables actionable insights from enhanced imaging to be delivered onboard in real-time with whatever AI models are preferred by operators. By overcoming constraints related to bandwidth, latency, and human cognitive overload, Sapient Perception unlocks autonomous operational capabilities that were previously inaccessible in time-critical environments.
“In mission-critical situations, the ability to make fast, informed decisions determines outcomes,” said Anthony Garetto, CEO and co-founder of Sapient Perception. “Our perception layer enables persistent situational awareness through a far wider lens, while delivering the important details to operators in real time. Having this whole picture means decisive action can be taken faster and with a higher level of confidence.”
The company is already working with Dropla Tech to integrate Sapient’s large area perception sensors into UAVs designed to fly low and ahead of military convoys. Sapient’s imaging will feed into Dropla Tech’s Blue Eyes platform, which is being used today by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence to process real-time drone video to detect ambush drones and landmines along supply routes near Ukraine’s front lines. Sapient is also working with partners deploying its sensors on high-altitude platforms, including stratospheric systems for wide-area ISR, highlighting the flexibility of its perception layer to customers, system integrators, and industrial partners across Europe and North America.
The investment from Balnord and FORWARD.one reflects growing demand for edge-based intelligence as operational complexity and the criticality of advanced sensors increase across defense and security domains.
“Modern defense and security operations are not taking advantage of the most advanced sensors and the vast data they generate,” said Jarek Pilarczyk, Partner at Balnord. “Sapient Perception addresses this challenge with a highly differentiated edge AI approach that we believe will become foundational to next-generation systems.”
“In the environments Sapient Perception serves, every second matters. Their technology turns high-quality sensor data into real-time insights at the edge, enabling 100× greater coverage than today’s systems. It’s a clear step change — built by a team that knows how to move fast and deliver,” added Cailin Greiner, Investment Manager at FORWARD.one.
