XC3 Weaponlight

Archive for the ‘Optics’ Category

Kopin Achieves Three Critical Milestones Advancing US Army Color MicroLED Technology for Ground Soldier Vision Applications

Tuesday, July 14th, 2026

New bonding capability, breakthrough brightness performance, and rapid progress toward full?color MicroLED integration mark major steps toward future programs such as Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC)

WESTBOROUGH, Mass., July 14, 2026–Kopin Corporation (NASDAQ: KOPN), a leading provider of application-specific optical systems and high-performance microdisplays for defense, training, enterprise, industrial, consumer and medical products, today announced three major milestone achievements in its color MicroLED development program for the U.S. Government’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program. These accomplishments represent significant progress toward establishing a fully U.S.?based MicroLED manufacturing capability and advancing next?generation soldier vision systems.

Milestone 1: Breakthrough MicroLED Performance Achieved

Kopin achieved a significant performance milestone, reaching over 150,000 nits of single-panel, full-color brightness—exceeding the program’s threshold target. This early performance result demonstrates strong initial capability, with planned improvements expected to push brightness even higher over time.

These results represent a major step forward in the development of high?brightness, defense?ready MicroLED displays suitable for advanced vision systems, augmented reality, and other mission?critical applications.

Milestone 2: Progress Toward Full?Color MicroLED Integration for Ground Soldier Integrated Vision Systems

Kopin has reached a second crucial milestone: successful early integration progress of its color MicroLED technology for U.S. Army ground soldier vision applications. This advancement brings Kopin closer to enabling future soldier?borne systems such as the SBMC solution, where lightweight, high?brightness, full?color MicroLED displays are essential for real?time situational awareness, digital overlays, and mission execution.

This milestone reflects Kopin’s ability to translate MicroLED performance gains into application?specific optical solutions designed for rugged, field?ready soldier systems.

Milestone 3: U.S. Bonding Equipment Delivered and Installed

Kopin has received and begun installation of its new MicroLED bonding equipment, a key asset supporting the IBAS program and Kopin’s broader effort to onshore critical MicroLED manufacturing processes. The equipment shipped in June and is scheduled to be fully installed by the end of July at Kopin’s U.S. headquarters.

This advanced bonding system enables the precise attachment of the backplane to the MicroLED array, creating a fully bonded display assembly—an essential step in MicroLED production. With this installation, Kopin will have U.S.?based bonding capability, a foundational requirement for scaling domestic MicroLED manufacturing.

Kopin expects to transition to manufacturing product in mid?2027, positioning the company as a key U.S. supplier of next?generation MicroLED display technology.

Management Commentary

“Our team has delivered three major achievements that accelerate our path toward U.S.?based MicroLED manufacturing, and next?generation display performance,” said Michael Murray, CEO of Kopin Corporation. “Receiving and installing our bonding equipment is a foundational step in onshoring MicroLED production, surpassing 150,000 nits of single-panel, full-color brightness demonstrates the strength of our technology roadmap, and our integration progress for Kopin’s support of the IBAS initiative and moves us closer to enabling future programs like SBMC which could enable hundreds of millions in revenues for Kopin over the life of the program. These milestones reinforce Kopin’s commitment to building advanced display capabilities here in the United States and leading the future of high?performance MicroLED systems.”

Forward Looking Statements

This press release includes statements that constitute forward looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “forecast,” “guidance,” “plan,” “estimate,” “will,” “would,” “project,” “maintain,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “prospect,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “believe,” “continue,” “opportunity,” “potential,” and other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters.

Forward looking statements are only predictions and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict and, in many cases, outside of our control. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward looking statements. All forward looking statements are qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. We undertake no obligation to update forward looking statements except as required by law. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward looking statements are detailed in the Company’s most recent Form 10-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

This press release includes forward looking statements regarding Kopin’s breakthrough Micro-LED, our ability to turn these gains into field?ready soldier systems and our ability to enable hundreds of millions in revenues for Kopin over the life of the program. These statements also reflect anticipated strategic benefits associated with Kopin’s investment in bringing OLED display manufacturing processes in house. Forward looking statements are based on current assumptions and expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including changes in customer demand, program schedules, manufacturing performance, and broader conditions in the defense market.

For more information, please visit Kopin’s website at www.kopin.com.

XS Sights Introduces R3D 2.0 Sights for PSA’s Dagger Micro Pistol

Wednesday, July 8th, 2026

Fort Worth, Texas (July 7, 2026) – XS® Sights R3D 2.0 night sights are now available for Palmetto State Armory’s Dagger Micro Pistol.

Designed for self-defense, the R3D 2.0 improves target acquisition speed and accuracy in any light, taking the performance of your Dagger Micro to a new level. A traditional, 3-dot notch and post sight, the R3D 2.0 has two rear tritium dots while the front sight features a self-luminous tritium lamp surrounded by XS’s proprietary Glow Dot ring. The Glow Dot is available in green or orange to accommodate personal color preference. The dual illumination causes the front sight to glow brighter than the rear and, combined with the wide rear notch, provides more visible indexing for increased speed, precision, and accuracy.

“The R3D 2.0 is a great upgrade for everyday carry guns,” said Jeff King, Marketing Manager, XS Sights. “They are easy to install, no need for filing and hammering, and the Black Nitride finish provides superior corrosion resistance making this rugged steel sight incredibly durable.”

Retail Price:

            R3D 2.0 Green                                    $128.12

            R3D 2.0 Orange                                  $128.12

XS sights are backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. The company also offers a 12-year illumination warranty on all tritium products. For more information, visit www.xssights.com.

Sneak Peek – from US Armor Forge × INFITAC FML19 Thermal Hood for the EOTech XPS & EXPS

Monday, July 6th, 2026

Meet the US Armor Forge × INFITAC FML19 Thermal Hood for the EOTech XPS & EXPS platform.

Engineered from DMLS titanium and aerospace-grade aluminum, the system is designed to maximize capability without sacrificing the compact footprint professionals rely on.

Features:

• Integrated USB-C rechargeable, MIL-rated battery pod

• 50+ hours of continuous runtime

• Precision DMLS aluminum/titanium construction

• Maintains the compact XPS/EXPS form factor

• Exclusive US Armor Forge firmware unlocking Night Vision Mode on compatible FML19 units

• Ruggedized for professional and government applications

Small footprint. Extended endurance. Full thermal capability.

Coming soon from usarmorforge.com.

XS Sights Introduces Pre-Drilled Fiber Optic Sights for S&W J-, K-, and L-Frame Revolvers

Wednesday, July 1st, 2026

Fort Worth, Texas (June 30, 2026) – XS® Sights is now offering its advanced, pre-drilled fiber optic sights for Smith & Wesson J-, K-, and L- Frame revolvers. The proprietary US-sourced fiber optic technology and angled design of these sights significantly increase light transmission, creating an aiming point with exceptional daylight brightness. Built for rugged use, these steel sights are made in the USA. The standard-size front sight comes with a green fiber optic insert in addition to an interchangeable orange fiber optic insert for color customization based on personal preference.

“We’re excited to offer our first fiber optic sights for revolvers,” said Jeff King, Marketing Manager, XS Sights. “The special design of the XS Fiber Optic Sights makes them more durable than most on the market and increases the brightness of the aiming point making it an awesome upgrade to any competition, plinking, or self-defense revolver.”

XS sights are backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. The company also offers a 12-year illumination warranty on all tritium products. For more information, visit www.xssights.com.

Colt Optics Launches New Family of Red Dot Sights and Magnifier

Monday, June 29th, 2026

Colt Michigan (June 29, 2026) – Colt Electro Optics LLC (“Colt Optics”) today announced the launch of its first family of red dot optics, including the MRS-1 enclosed-emitter pistol red dot, the CSQ-1 rifle red dot, and the C3X-1 3x magnifier.

Modern shooters demand speed, reliability, and confidence in their equipment. Whether mounted on a duty pistol, patrol rifle, or personal-defense firearm, an optic should help the shooter focus on the target, not fight the limitations of the sight itself.

The MRS-1, CSQ-1, and C3X-1 were developed around a common philosophy: help shooters acquire targets faster, maintain awareness, and perform with confidence in demanding real-world environments. These products also represent the first optics in the Colt Optics lineup to be Designed, Engineered, and Assembled in Michigan, USA.

“At Colt Optics, we believe professional users deserve equipment they can trust when performance matters most,” said Dennis Finnegan, Chief Operating Officer of Colt Optics. “Every design decision behind these products was driven by real-world shooter needs. For the MRS-1, CSQ-1, and C3X-1, we are proud to say they are Designed, Engineered, and Assembled in the USA by our team in Michigan. We didn’t set out to build products that simply check boxes on a specification sheet. We set out to build optics that help shooters perform better.”

MRS-1 Closed Emitter Pistol Red Dot

Designed, Engineered, and Assembled in Michigan, USA, the MRS-1 was developed to deliver the reliability advantages of a closed-emitter optic without compromising the size, weight, and handling characteristics shooters expect from a modern handgun.

Built around a rugged 7075-T6 aluminum housing, the MRS-1 protects critical optical components from environmental contamination while maintaining a compact footprint of just 1.85 inches and a weight of only 2 ounces. A generously sized viewing window provides an expansive sight picture, helping shooters quickly acquire the dot while maintaining awareness of the target and surrounding environment.

The optic utilizes the popular ACRO footprint, features motion-activated illumination, and incorporates a crisp 3 MOA aiming dot designed to balance speed and precision. The low-profile design also allows co-witnessing with many standard-height iron sights, providing an additional layer of confidence and redundancy.

CSQ-1 Full Size Square Red Dot

Designed, Engineered, and Assembled in Michigan, USA, the CSQ-1 was built around a simple question: how do we help shooters get on target faster?

The answer begins with the sight picture.

Featuring one of the largest square viewing windows available on the market, the CSQ-1 was designed to maximize field of view and situational awareness. The expansive sight picture helps shooters acquire and stay on targets more quickly while maintaining awareness of everything happening around them.

An advanced aspheric lens design minimizes distortion while a multi-coated optical system delivers exceptional clarity across a wide range of lighting conditions. The optic also features motion-activated illumination, dedicated night vision settings with a dedicated NV button, and a multi-reticle system designed to support both close-range and extended-distance engagements.

Built around a rugged 7075-T6 aluminum housing, the CSQ-1 was engineered to withstand demanding environments while delivering the performance professional users expect.

C3X-1 3x magnifier

The C3X-1 was developed to extend the capability of a red dot sight without sacrificing the speed and simplicity that make red dots so effective.

At just 2.72 inches in length, the C3X-1 is one of the shortest 3x magnifiers available on the market. Its compact footprint helps preserve valuable rail space while reducing overall system bulk. Despite its compact size, the C3X-1 provides an industry leading 85mm of eye relief that helps shooters get behind the optic quickly and maintain a comfortable, forgiving shooting position.

An ambidextrous flip-to-side mount allows rapid transitions between magnified and non-magnified viewing, while an adjustable diopter and included riser plate provide flexibility for a wide variety of rifle configurations and shooting applications.

When paired with the CSQ-1, the C3X-1 allows shooters to transition seamlessly between close-range speed and target identification at distance.

“Throughout development, we focused on how these products would actually be used in the real world,” said Jon Meyer, Vice President of Product Development for Colt Optics. “Every feature had to earn its place. Whether it improved speed, awareness, durability, or ease of use, the goal was to create optics that help shooters perform better under real-world conditions.”

The MRS-1, CSQ-1, and C3X-1 will be available through authorized retailers in the coming weeks.

For more information, visit www.coltoptics.com.

Safran Launches eTAD: The New Standard for Thermal Clip-Ons, Offering Augmented Battlefield Perception to Soldiers

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026

Safran Electronics & Defense presents eTAD, its latest-generation thermal vision device, designed to clip onto a night vision goggle (NVG). Developed to strengthen the operational capabilities of European armed forces, eTAD expands Safran Electronics & Defense’s soldier vision range beyond the already existing TAD, creating a new European standard for thermal clip-on equipments.

Drawing upon the Safran Electronics & Defense’s recognized expertise in the field of defense optronics, eTAD was designed by incorporating feedback from international armed forces. Over 25,000 Safran Electronics & Defense thermal clip-on devices are already deployed worldwide by numerous allied forces.

TAD is now a standard equipment due to its camouflage detection abilities, integrated magnetic compass, and modularity. eTAD, with advanced navigation features, augmented reality, and C2 (command and control) integration, enables the soldier to see first, understand faster, and act precisely in any operational conditions. It offers a combination of high performance, technological sovereignty, and interoperability.

Safran Electronics & Defense’s offering relies on a secure and fully controlled optronic value chain, with a production capacity of over 500 thermal clip-on devices per month, ensuring immediate availability and scalability to meet the needs of armed forces.

Alexandre Ziegler, Head of Defense Global Business Unit, Safran Electronics & Defense, stated: “By launching eTAD, Safran Electronics & Defense is providing European forces with a next-generation, sovereign thermal vision capability that is not subject to ITAR regulations. The fusion of vision, navigation, and command (C2) data enhances understanding of the tactical situation, information sharing, and the coordination of units involved in collaborative combat. This innovation highlights Safran Electronics & Defense’s commitment to European sovereignty and operational superiority for soldiers.”

Vortex Optics GeoBallistics Ecosystem

Tuesday, June 16th, 2026

Vortex Optics incorporates GeoBallistics software into several of its products including Talon HD 10K Binocular, Ace Ballistic Weather Meter, and Impact 4000 laser range finder.

These devices collect data which feeds into the GeoBallistics software. In addition to rendering shooting solutions which appear on the device, it also interfaces with the App resodent in your End User Device.

vortexoptics.com/geoballistics

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