GORE-TEX Professional

Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

LifeCampUSA Opens Enrollment For Summer Camp Serving Children Of Fallen Heroes

Sunday, March 8th, 2026

LifeCampUSA Provides Free Summer Camp, Mentorship, and Long-Term Support for Youth Ages 11-14 Who Have Lost a Father in Service
DELAFIELD, WISCONSIN / MARCH 5, 2026 – Enrollment is now open for LifeCampUSA, a faith-based children’s summer camp designed specifically for young men and women ages 11-14 who have lost a father due to their U.S. Military, Law Enforcement, or First Responder service. Each year, more than 1,000 children join the heartbreaking reality of growing up without their dad due to line-of-duty deaths, creating an urgent need for faith-centered mentorship and support that LifeCampUSA provides. 

TAKE A LOOK INSIDE LIFECAMPUSA

Founded by Mark and Jane Neumann, LifeCampUSA provides a multi-day camp experience that combines outdoor adventure, Christian mentorship, grief support, and daily spiritual encouragement, all at no cost to families. LifeCampUSA covers all lodging, meals, activities, and programming, ensuring that financial barriers never prevent a child from attending.

“Children who lose a father in service to our nation or community carry a unique weight,” said co-founder Mark Neumann. “LifeCampUSA exists to surround them with mentors, faith, and brotherhood and sisterhood that remind them they are not alone and give them lasting tools to honor their fathers.” 

LifeCampUSA Colorado Camp Group
LifeCampUSA was created to provide purposeful direction, inner strength, and lasting support to children navigating grief. The program fills a critical gap for families seeking faith-centered healing resources after the loss of a father. LifeCampUSA is one of the only programs in the nation dedicated exclusively to serving children who have lost a father in military, law enforcement, or first responder service.

APPLY HERE TO BE A CAMPER OR MENTOR

Enrollment for the upcoming camp season is open now. Each year, LifeCampUSA partners with top-tier family camps and guest ranches across the United States, including locations in Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and South Dakota. Sites are selected for the quality of their lodging, food, natural beauty, and available outdoor activities. From archery and swimming to team games and nightly worship, LifeCampUSA creates a safe, adventure-filled environment where grief meets community and children rediscover joy.

For more information or to apply, visit LifeCampUSA.org.

Armed Forces Bank Earns Top Honors for Advancing Veteran Financial Well-Being

Sunday, March 8th, 2026

Bank Receives Sole Veteran Saves Week “Community Impact Award” and Prestigious “Designation of Savings Excellence” from Consumer Federation of America

Award-Winning Banking Leadership Delivers Meaningful Financial Progress for Service Members and Veterans

LEAVENWORTH, Kan., March 4, 2026 — Armed Forces Bank – a full-service military bank committed to serving those who serve since 1907 – was selected as a Veteran Saves Week “Community Impact Award” recipient and a “Designation of Savings Excellence” Award winner by the nonprofit Consumer Federation of America (CFA). The awards recognize Armed Forces Bank’s exceptional leadership in improving the financial well-being of veterans, service members, and military families through measurable outcomes, sustained engagement and community-focused financial education.

Veteran Saves Week is a program under the America Saves umbrella, coordinated by the CFA. The campaign encourages veterans to take the Veteran Saves Pledge while empowering organizations to promote savings year-round.

Out of more than 900 participating organizations nationwide, Armed Forces Bank received the sole 2025 Veteran Saves Week “Community Impact Award” and was named one of only two banks to earn the “Designation of Savings Excellence” Award.

Community Impact Award
The Veteran Saves Week “Community Impact Award” recognizes the organization that most effectively leveraged the Veteran Saves Pledge to encourage savings behavior and goal setting within its community during the annual campaign.

According to CFA, Armed Forces Bank’s approach helped translate participation into action by providing veterans with clear, accessible savings pathways – an important factor given that individuals with a defined savings plan are twice as likely to successfully reach their goals.

“We’re honored to recognize Armed Forces Bank with the Community Impact Award for the second year in a row,” said Krystel Spell, program manager at Veteran Saves. “During Veteran Saves Week, Armed Forces Bank demonstrated a thoughtful approach to supporting the Veteran Saves Pledge by ensuring the message reached veterans in ways that felt clear and actionable. That level of care and consistency helped translate participation into real progress toward savings goals.”

Designation of Savings Excellence Award
The CFA also awards the Veteran Saves Week “Designation of Savings Excellence Award” to financial institutions that demonstrate outstanding performance and measurable impact during the Veteran Saves Week. Armed Forces Bank was one of only seven financial institutions nationally – and just two banks – to receive this distinction for the campaign, which took place in November 2025, as part of National Military Family Month and Warrior Care Month.

Measurable Impact During Veteran Saves Week 2025
During Veteran Saves Week 2025, Armed Forces Bank executed a comprehensive, multi-channel outreach campaign that delivered meaningful and measurable results, including:

  • 50,642 individuals reached through email, social media, branch communications, website promotion, flyers and community events
  • 100% retail branch participation nationwide, reinforcing a unified, organization-wide commitment
  • $1.9 million+ in savings account growth, driven by deposits from 6,776 individuals
  • 85 new savings-type products opened, contributing more than $1.75 million in new deposits
  • 55 Veteran Saves Pledges completed
  • 44,792 emails sent and nearly 4,000 social media engagement views

Collectively, the work of all Veteran Saves Week award winners and participating organizations contributed to significant financial progress for service members and veterans. During the four-day period leading up to Veterans Day (November 4 to 7, 2025), these institutions reached more than 1.5 million individuals nationwide, encouraged nearly $1.9 million in deposits into new and existing accounts, and inspired veterans to pledge $370,000 toward future savings goals.

Leadership Perspective
“These recognitions reflect our long-standing commitment to helping military families build financial confidence and resilience,” said Tom McLean, senior vice president and regional military executive for Armed Forces Bank. “We understand the unique financial realities that come with military life, and we work every day to meet service members and veterans where they are – providing practical tools, trusted guidance and consistent support no matter where duty takes them.”

“It is truly a privilege to serve the military community,” said Paul Holewinski,  CEO of Armed Forces Bank. “Every product, service and education effort we offer is designed with their unique needs in mind. We appreciate the recognition from the Consumer Federation of America, but the greatest reward is seeing our clients strengthen their financial footing and achieve the goals that matter most to them.”

Air Force Modernizes Physical Fitness Program to Bolster Readiness, Long-Term Health

Sunday, March 8th, 2026

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —  

The Air Force announced an update to its Physical Fitness Readiness Program (PFRP) in a Directive Type Memorandum introducing new standards and scoring models designed to better align with the demands of modern warfare and promote the long-term health of every Airman.

The modernized program is anchored in scientifically grounded health measures and a more rigorous assessment model. The goal is to enhance warfighter readiness by encouraging Airmen to build durable fitness habits that support sustained, career-long performance.

“Our new standards are designed to help Airmen build fitness habits that will serve them throughout their careers and hopefully a long life,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach. “This update is not just about increasing the physical fitness test standards; it’s about ensuring our warfighters are fit, ready, and prioritizing their long-term health.”

In conjunction with the updated program, score charts have been updated with increased minimums for each scored component, as well as separate charts now available for Occupationally Specific Physical Fitness Assessments. These adjustments are intentional and directly align with the program’s renewed emphasis on long-term health, readiness, and overall warfighter effectiveness.

To ensure a smooth transition, the Air Force will implement a baseline window for Airmen to take diagnostic tests starting March 1, 2026. This period is designed to give Airmen time to understand the new standards, assess their current performance against the updated charts, and adjust their training focus before scoring becomes official on July 1, 2026. The baseline period will also provide the data required to assess and refine score charts in advance of full implementation of the new standards. Airmen who complete the Physical Fitness Readiness Assessment (PFRA) during the baseline period may elect to record their diagnostic test score as an official fitness test score. This may be especially beneficial for Airmen in cold-weather locations who wish to align their next due-date to a time when weather is more conducive to outdoor testing in their region.

Airmen may reference the PFRA Due Date Matrix on MyFSS in the Knowledge Base application to learn more about testing timelines.

Body composition will return as a scored component assessed in the PFRA. Airmen may elect to take this component of the test up to five duty days before assessing the remaining PFRA components.

Airmen and commanders are encouraged to make full use of diagnostic testing during this baseline period. This phase will provide valuable data to ensure the updated PFRP is implemented in a manner that is fair, accurate, and effective across the force. To support the force through this transition, a robust set of resources will be available:

  • Master Fitness Leaders: These trained experts will be available at installations to guide unit-level Peer Fitness Leaders and Airmen through safe and effective conditioning, reconditioning, and adaptive fitness programs.
  • The Warfighter Fitness Playbook: This guide offers detailed guidance on workouts, recovery strategies, sleep optimization, and nutrition—all interconnected elements essential for sustained performance.

The certification of the 2-mile run tracks to ensure all Air Force tracks meet official standards is in progress. Final guidance on measurement specifications (e.g. meters, feet, yards, etc.) will be published in AFMAN 36-2905.

“Airmen are the heart of the Air Force, and their readiness is essential to mission success,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David R. Wolfe. “Our new standards are designed to prepare them for the demands of today and the future fight. They give every one of our Airmen an opportunity to grow in an important part of their lives.”

Additionally, as previously announced, PFRA scores will become part of an Airman’s annual evaluation to incorporate a full picture of an individual’s performance and contributions. Official guidance in AFI 36-2406 released this week for implementation.

This evolution of the fitness program represents a deliberate investment in the force, ensuring that Airmen are not only prepared for the challenges of today, but are also physically sustained for a long and healthy career.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

Chemring plc Appoints Baroness Kate Rock as an Independent Non-Executive Director

Saturday, March 7th, 2026

Chemring today announces the appointment of Baroness Kate Rock as an independent non-executive director. Upon joining the Board, Kate will become the Senior Independent Director and a member of the Audit, Nomination and Remuneration Committees. She will join the Board with effect from 1 April 2026.

Kate is an experienced non?executive director with a board portfolio covering technology, engineering, construction and infrastructure. Underpinned by a strong background in corporate communications and strategy, she combines deep engineering sector knowledge with a strategic understanding of how innovation and technology enhance productivity, together with wide-ranging experience working across government.

On 1 December 2022 Kate was appointed Non-Executive Chair of the UK infrastructure solutions company Costain Group PLC. Since that time Costain has seen a near five-fold increase in its share price and has re-entered the FTSE 250 index. In September 2018 she joined the Board of FTSE 250 Keller Group plc (the world’s largest geotechnical specialist contractor) and is now the Senior Independent Director, serving on the Audit & Risk, Nomination & Governance, Remuneration and Sustainability Committees.

Having been appointed a Life Peer in 2015, she sat on the House of Lords Science and Technology Select Committee until January 2023. She was also a member of the House of Lords Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence from 2017 to 2018 and was Chair of the House of Lords Select Committee on Autism between January and November 2025.

Until January 2023, Kate was a Board member of the world’s first Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation and was, until November 2017, a non-executive director of Imagination Technologies plc, the former global FTSE 250 high technology company.

Tony Wood, Chairman of Chemring, commented:

“Following an extensive selection process, I am delighted to welcome Baroness Rock to Chemring. Kate brings considerable experience within the fields of technology, infrastructure and innovation, as well as government and strategic communications. Her strong understanding of the construction and infrastructure sector will also be of value to the Group as we further progress our organic growth strategy and investment in increased capacity. I am certain that she will make a strong contribution to the continued development and performance of the Group.”

There are no further disclosures required to be made in accordance with UKLR 6.4.8 of the FCA’s UK Listing Rules sourcebook.

Tiberius Aerospace Welcomes Professor Dame Fiona Murray to Advisory Board

Saturday, March 7th, 2026

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, today announced the appointment of Professor Dame Fiona Murray DCMG CBE to its Advisory Board.

Professor Dame Fiona Murray DCMG CBE is Chair of the NATO Innovation Fund and has previously served on the British Prime Minister’s Council on Science and Technology. She was awarded a CBE (Commander of the British Empire) for her services to innovation and entrepreneurship in the United Kingdom and appointed Dame Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (DCMG). She served on the Ministry of Defence Strategic Advisory Review and is a member of the MOD Defence Industrial Joint Council. Murray is also the William Porter (1967) Professor of Entrepreneurship.

A globally recognised expert on science, technology and innovation policy, Murray advises governments, industry and research institutions on building innovation ecosystems that drive economic competitiveness, national security and societal resilience. Her appointment comes as Tiberius Aerospace accelerates delivery of its Sceptre 155 mm extended-range ramjet precision-guided ballistic munition designed to reach ranges beyond 140–160 km with high accuracy for NATO-standard artillery and GRAIL, its AI-powered software platform that brings software-era transparency, competition and data-driven decision-making to weapons procurement and manufacturing across sovereign defence supply chains.

Commenting on the announcement, Andy Baynes, Co-Founder of Tiberius Aerospace, said: “To deliver capability at the speed and scale required by today’s security environment, we must pair advanced engineering with new approaches to acquisition and industrial expansion. Through Sceptre, we are pursuing extended-range, precision-guided artillery effects that transform deep fires capability. With GRAIL, we are applying AI-enabled analytical tools to bring greater transparency, innovation and competition to weapons procurement and sovereign manufacturing. We must mobilise and weaponise NATO’s supply chain so that thousands of suppliers are competing on price and performance in a secure, managed framework. Dame Fiona’s experience in shaping innovation ecosystems and aligning research, policy and industry will be invaluable as we continue to scale these offerings for allied partners.”

Professor Dame Fiona Murray added “The modern defence landscape demands not just technical innovation but a systems approach that links private sector ingenuity to production and impact at scale.

Tiberius Aerospace’s blend of advanced capabilities and AI-driven industrial modelling represents a compelling step towards closing that gap. I am honoured to join the Advisory Board and support the company as it works with governments and industry to strengthen innovation, resilience and performance across allied defence ecosystems.”

INKAS Expands Executive Fleet with the Addition of the Armored BMW 7 Series

Friday, March 6th, 2026

INKAS® proudly announces the addition of the all-new Armored BMW 760i to its growing global fleet of premium protected vehicles. As demand for discreet executive protection continues to rise, INKAS® is further strengthening its lineup with a distinctive luxury sedan platform engineered to deliver certified ballistic protection.

Based on BMW’s flagship executive sedan, the armored BMW 7 Series combines advanced technology with proven ballistic engineering. Powered by a 4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8 producing 536 horsepower and supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, the platform offers enhanced efficiency and performance capabilities while supporting the structural requirements of full armoring integration.

Engineered entirely in-house, the vehicle integrates advanced armored steel, multi-layer ballistic glass, and proprietary overlap protection systems, which provide full 360-degree perimeter protection against high-powered rifle threats and explosive risks, all while maintaining the original appearance and performance of the OEM BMW design. Structural reinforcements, upgraded suspension, and critical system upgrades ensure the vehicle maintains stability, handling, and ride quality under armored operating conditions.

The addition of the armored BMW 7 Series marks a notable development within the luxury armored vehicle segment, where armored BMW platforms remain limited in availability. Its distinctive design, advanced technology, and executive profile provide clients with a highly specialized alternative within the premium protection category.

“Clients today are looking for protection solutions that combine advanced engineering with refined executive presence,” said David Khazanski, CEO of INKAS®. “By integrating our proven armoring technology into the BMW 7 Series platform, we are expanding our ability to meet evolving security needs while maintaining the highest standards of quality and reliability.”

As INKAS® continues its global expansion, the introduction of the Armored BMW 7 Series further solidifies the company’s position as a leading manufacturer of high-quality, certified armored vehicles trusted by executives, government officials, and VIP clients worldwide.

Strategic Acquisition in the Field of Uncrewed and Autonomous Systems: Rheinmetall to Gain Majority Stake in DOK-ING

Friday, March 6th, 2026

The Düsseldorf-based technology group Rheinmetall is expanding its portfolio with an acquisition in the field of uncrewed systems. Rheinmetall has now signed a contract in Zagreb to buy a majority stake of Croatian uncrewed ground system solution provider DOK-ING. Rheinmetall is acquiring 51% of the company, which was founded in 1991, Vjekoslav Majeti?, the founder and previous sole owner of the company, will retain the remaining shares (49%). Rheinmetall’s entry into DOK-ING is subject to approval by the relevant regulatory authorities. Both parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

Following the completion of the transaction, DOK-ING will continue to operate from its headquarters in Zagreb, with the existing management team remaining in place to ensure strategic continuity and operational stability, an arrangement aligned with and endorsed by Rheinmetall.

In the presence of  Ivan Anuši?, Croatia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, the contract was signed today by Vjekoslav Majeti?, founder of DOK-ING and the CEO of Rheinmetall’s Vehicle Systems Europe division, Dr Björn Bernhard. 

Dr Björn Bernhard said, “The combination of Rheinmetall’s expertise in tactical vehicles and DOK-ING’s capabilities in uncrewed systems will create a strong market position for us with considerable potential for the future. At the same time, we are establishing a foothold in Croatia, being an EU and NATO member, and we will be gaining access to this highly interesting customer country”.

“Our competence centre for uncrewed and autonomous systems for military applications is now being established in Croatia. With this new set-up, it is our goal to obtain a strong market position in the segment of uncrewed combat support and armoured military engineering systems. We do see the potential for significant growth in this market and believe that we are entering the global market at the proper time with our new products. This is underlined by ongoing and planned procurement projects in many other countries”, as Dr Björn Bernhard continues.

DOK-ING has a strong market position in uncrewed solutions for mine clearance and operations in hazardous and high-risk environments in civil and military domain. Since its foundation, the company has delivered around 500 platforms to customers in over 40 countries. At present, DOK-ING’s mine clearance solutions are highly effective in Ukraine. 

Already in October of 2024, the two companies agreed on a partnership, which initially focussed on jointly developing uncrewed ground systems for mobility, countermobility (mine clearing and laying) and combat support operations. A notable aspect of the partnership between Rheinmetall and DOK-ING is its entirely European origin and value creation. 

These activities are based on DOK-ING’s newly developed Komodo, a modular heavy duty hybrid uncrewed platform, which has a payload capacity of over 8,5 tonnes. Rheinmetall is contributing with various capability modules and equipment kits, including those for direct and indirect fire, mine clearing and laying, autonomous capability and logistics.

Dr Björn Bernhard said: “DOK-ING and Rheinmetall are two leading European suppliers in their very special field, and by joining forces, we can realise challenging projects. Together, we are aiming at setting new standards and hence, pave the way for uncrewed ground systems (UGS) which are ready for mass production and deployment”.

Vjekoslav Majeti?, founder of DOK-ING said: “This partnership with Rheinmetall marks the next phase in DOK-ING’s development. Over more than three decades, we have built strong technological capabilities and established a solid international presence in demanding markets. We have now reached a stage where further value creation and production scaling require a partner with substantial industrial capacity, system integration expertise and global market access“.

„DOK-ING’s development, engineering excellence and core competencies will remain in Croatia. By joining forces with Rheinmetall, we are creating the conditions to expand production capacity, accelerate the development of next-generation uncrewed specialised systems, and strengthen our long-term competitiveness“, Majeti? added. „This strategic step positions DOK-ING for sustainable growth and reinforces Croatia’s role within the European defence and technology landscape.”

In the new constellation, DOK-ING and Rheinmetall plan to develop a variety of solutions for combat and combat support operations. This includes a project for an uncrewed armed support system (known as ‘Wingman’) to be used with battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles for reconnaissance and fire support purposes. These systems will also be used alongside existing Rheinmetall products, such as the Panther KF51 Main Battle Tank, the Büffel/Buffalo recovery tank, and the Kodiak armoured engineer vehicle.

Rheinmetall AG is an integrated technology group, with its headquarters in Düsseldorf. Founded in 1889, it is a leading international systems house for the defence industry and operates within land, air, sea and space domains. A focus on sustainability is an integral part of Rheinmetall’s strategy. With around 44,000 employees at about 180 sites worldwide, the company has been listed on the DAX 40 since March 2023 and generated sales of €9.8 billion in the 2024 financial year.

DOK-ING is a technology-driven company specialising in the development and manufacture of advanced uncrewed systems designed for operations in hazardous and high-risk environments. Its core portfolio includes remotely operated and progressively autonomous platforms supporting humanitarian and military demining, military engineering operations, CBRN response, and the protection of critical infrastructure. The company’s solutions are based on modular and scalable architectures, enabling rapid mission-specific configuration for mine clearance, IED disposal, route clearance, firefighting, and other complex operational requirements. With a strong commitment to safety, reliability, and operational excellence, DOK-ING delivers field-proven systems that enhance force protection and reduce human exposure to risk, serving armed forces, civil protection authorities, and specialised security operators worldwide.

Tasmanian Tiger Modular Grab Pack 30 Delivers Mission-Ready Organization in a Compact Short-Range Platform

Friday, March 6th, 2026

30-liter escape and survival pack combines a fully modular interior, detachable harness system, and durable CORDURA® construction.

Knoxville, Tenn. (March 2026) – Tasmanian Tiger®, a tactical nylon line of products distributed exclusively for the US market by Proforce Equipment, Inc., announces the release of the TT Modular Grab Pack 30, a short-range escape and survival backpack engineered to provide rapid access, adaptable organization, and rugged durability in a 30-liter platform. Designed for operational professionals and prepared civilians alike, the TT Modular Grab Pack 30 features a two-chamber layout with two large, fully opening compartments. All-around zippers allow both compartments to open completely, providing unobstructed access to gear when time is critical.

The front compartment integrates four removable hook-and-loop inner pockets with transparent lids in varying sizes, along with flat organizer pockets in the lid for streamlined storage of smaller essentials. Flat front pockets provide space for documents and other slim items. In the rear compartment, a large hook-and-loop panel and two MOLLE strips on the back wall enable mission-specific configuration with compatible pouches and accessories.

The pack utilizes Tasmanian Tiger’s Y2 Carrying System, offering a padded, adjustable harness that can be tailored to the user’s back length. Shoulder straps are fully detachable, and the height-adjustable chest belt and detachable waist belt with pin buckle provide load stabilization when required. The ability to remove the shoulder straps and waist belt allows the pack to be stowed efficiently in vehicles or integrated into larger loadouts.

Additional features include three carry handles for rapid grab-and-go deployment; hydration system compatibility; hanging loops; a daisy chain and MOLLE loops on the front and base for external pouch attachment; and a hook-and-loop panel for patches and identification. An adjustable strap with buckle permits temporary closure of the rear compartment while the pack is open and suspended. A reversible rain cover with marker system is included for weather protection and identification.

Constructed from CORDURA 700-den fabric (500 den in Multicam), the TT Modular Grab Pack 30 is built for durability in demanding environments. It weighs 5.13 lbs. / 2.33 kg and measures in at 20 x 12 x 8 in. / 50 x 30 x 20 cm. It is available in Black, Olive, and Coyote for an MSRP of $449, while the Multicam is available for an MSRP of $499.