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First British-Made Boxer Presented at the International Armoured Vehicles Conference

Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025

Today the first British-made Boxer vehicle was proudly unveiled by the Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle, at the International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) Conference. This significant milestone signals the return of large-scale armoured vehicle manufacturing to the UK, revitalising the nation’s defence capabilities, economic strength, and engineering excellence.

‘’Made in Britain’’ at Its Best

Manufactured entirely in the UK at Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) in Telford, with the support of partners in KNDS UK, this ground breaking vehicle represents a true collaboration. Built under the UK’s Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) Programme, the Boxer’s journey to British soil began in 2019, when the Ministry of Defence awarded the contract via OCCAR to ARTEC GmbH – a partnership between Rheinmetall and KNDS, with the manufacture of the Boxer vehicles subcontracted to RBSL and KNDS UK.

This achievement is a true testament to the dedication and collaboration of all involved, including the British Army, Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) and industry partners. Their expertise and commitment have re-established the UK’s sovereign manufacturing capability.

Rheinmetall’s £56 million (approx. €66.3 million) investment in Telford has transformed the facility into a world leading production capability, complete with modern fabrication lines for armoured steel, advanced surface treatment systems, and integrated assembly lines for both Drive and Mission Modules. Every Boxer that rolls off the line is a testament to the highly skilled workforce across the supply chain.

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said:

 “It was a pleasure to unveil the first fully British-made Boxer – a testament to the expertise and innovation of Britain’s growing Defence Industry.

“The home-grown production of this world-class vehicle exemplifies our Government’s Plan for Change, deepening our partnership with industry to deliver thousands of highly skilled jobs and drive growth across the UK.”

John Abunassar, CEO of Rheinmetall in the UK, added:

“The unveiling of the first British-made Boxer is a historic moment for UK defence manufacturing. It not only symbolises the return of armoured vehicle production to British soil but also underscores Rheinmetall’s commitment to delivering sovereign capability, innovation, and economic prosperity for the UK. Boxer is more than a vehicle – it’s a Future Force Enabler, ensuring the British Army is ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges while delivering real benefits today.”

Driving Economic Growth and Innovation

The Boxer programme is delivering economic and strategic impact, creating over 1,000 highly skilled jobs across engineering, development, and complex systems integration; with over 100 UK suppliers involved. Around 75% of Boxer’s components are sourced domestically, ensuring a resilient UK supply.

This investment strengthens the UK’s defence strategy while ensuring collaboration with NATO allies, positioning Boxer as a key player in regional security and interoperability.

Boxer: Ready for Tomorrow’s Challenges

Boxer isn’t just a vehicle – it’s designed for adaptability, resilience, and operational superiority, it delivers unmatched versatility to the British Army’s Future Force. With our Telford facility poised for volume production this year, Boxer is ready to roll out as a critical capability in an era of complex global security challenges.

The UK trials programme for Boxer is advancing successfully, with prototypes passing all tests on the first attempt. These trials, supported by ARTEC and KNDS, have included Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) assessments, live firing at Lulworth Ranges in Dorset, and extreme climatic evaluations at Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. This flawless performance underscores Boxer’s exceptional reliability and operational readiness, even in the most challenging environments. Notably, the British Army has successfully tested the Boxer’s water-fording capabilities, demonstrating its stability and control in unprepared water crossings.

These achievements highlight the Boxer’s robust design and its readiness to meet the diverse operational demands of the British Armed Forces.

A New Chapter for UK Defence Manufacturing

The first British-built Boxer highlights the re-establishing armoured vehicle production on British soil. The Boxer programme is a symbol of what can be achieved through collaboration, investment, and a shared commitment to securing the future.

Team Wendy’s Big Reveal at SHOT Show 2025: The Revolutionary RIFLETECH Helmet

Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025

Groundbreaking NIJ Level III design delivers top protection in a lightweight package

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Jan. 21, 2025 – Team Wendy®, a global leader in helmet innovation for heroes on the front lines, is ready to wow SHOT Show 2025 attendees with the launch of its RIFLETECH™ helmet. This revolutionary helmet combines cutting-edge materials, breakthrough design and rigorous testing to create a new standard for high-velocity ballistic protection.

Building on decades of innovation and deep collaboration with military and law enforcement professionals, Team Wendy’s RIFLETECH™ helmet offers NIJ Level III protection, meaning it’s built to stop rifle rounds, including 7.62×39 MSC, 7.62x51mm FMJ, and 5.56 M193 BT—all at muzzle velocities. For all its advanced capabilities, the RIFLETECH™ stays impressively light, delivering the perfect mix of protection and comfort to keep wearers going through demanding missions.

“This is more than just another ballistic helmet—it’s the result of years of research, testing and a relentless drive to meet the real-world needs of operators in the field,” said Daron Shank, Helmet Product Category Director for Team Wendy. “The RIFLETECH™ is the perfect example of what Team Wendy is here to do: Deliver innovation, ensure durability and focus on user safety and performance.”

Designed for the Mission, Built for the Future

The RIFLETECH™ isn’t just about protection—it’s about versatility. With Team Wendy Ceradyne’s signature no-through-hole technology, the helmet maintains its full ballistic integrity even when outfitted with mission-critical accessories like night vision mounts, communication devices and modular rail attachments. Its advanced maximum airflow suspension system ensures comfort, stability and wearability in the most demanding environments, allowing operators to stay focused on the task at hand.

“Whether you’re responding to high-risk situations as part of a tactical unit or patrolling in unpredictable terrain, the RIFLETECH™ helmet is designed to be a game-changer,” Shank added. “It’s light enough to support agility, tough enough to handle the threats and comfortable enough for all-day wear.”

Every Team Wendy product undergoes meticulous research and testing, and the RIFLETECH™ helmet is no different, built to surpass military and law enforcement standards.

Key Features of the RIFLETECH™ Helmet:

•                  Elite Round Threat Protection (RTP): NIJ Level III design shields against 7.62×39 MSC, 7.62x51mm FMJ and 5.56 M193 BT rounds at muzzle velocities.

•                  No-Through-Hole Technology: Enhances ballistic strength by avoiding shell perforations.

•                  Performance Optimized: Lightweight construction achieves the best protection-to-weight ratio.

•                  Best-in-Class Balance: Lightweight design ensures protection without sacrificing agility.

Experience It Firsthand

Head to Booth #62307 at SHOT Show 2025 to see the RIFLETECH™ helmet up close and chat with the experts. As part of the Avon Technologies PLC group of brands, Team Wendy will also be exhibiting Avon Protection’s new MITR™-M1 System. The MITR™ (Modular Integrated Tactical Respirator) system is a modular respirator offering scalable protection between single-use masks and full-face respirators. It’s compact, adaptable and perfect for swift deployment in any tactical scenario, whether it’s a routine patrol or a high-risk intervention.

These debuts underscore each company’s drive to offer military, law enforcement and tactical professionals unmatched head and integrated protection solutions.

To learn more about the RIFLETECH™ helmet and other Team Wendy innovations, visit TeamWendy.com. To learn more about the MITR™ System, go to Avon-Protection.com.

M&P 9 METAL HD; The New Steel-Frame Spec Series Pistol by Smith & Wesson

Tuesday, January 21st, 2025

MARYVILLE, TN., (1/21/2025) – Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, announces today the release of the M&P9 Metal HD – Spec Series V, the newest addition to the Spec Series lineup.

The fifth iteration of our Spec Series family is a first of its kind, built with superior performance in mind. It is a striker-fired pistol chambered in 9mm, has a 23-round capacity, and utilizes a newly designed aluminum trigger to facilitate more consistent and accurate shooting.

Weighing in at 2.31-pounds (without a magazine), the M&P9 Metal HD features a steel frame construction with enhanced texturing, a steel magwell, and a steel optics plate that increase overall weight and help reduce felt recoil. Its 4.8-inch threaded barrel, controls, and magwell all display a sharp blue PVD finish, and it is equipped with a Strike Industries™ compensator to mitigate muzzle rise and improve control.

“Our polymer M&P handguns have been widely recognized for their ergonomics and reliability. We took these trusted attributes and integrated them into a steel platform to help mitigate felt-coil, allowing users to keep their pistol running flat and fast. This new Spec Series offers an advantage in today’s dynamic shooting environments while delivering a premium look and feel,” said Corey Beaudreau, Product Manager.

The M&P9 Metal HD ships with tall C.O.R.E.™ green night sights out of the box and also includes an optics-ready slide if you choose to operate your preferred red dot. Additional features include three 23-round magazines, a Limited-Edition Spec Series Coin and Knife, and a hard carry case.

For more information on the M&P9 Metal HD – Spec Series V, visit www.smith-wesson.com

Forge Concepts Introduces The Starlink Mini Bag

Tuesday, January 21st, 2025

Forge Concepts is excited to announce the Starlink Mini Bag, a purpose-built solution for carrying, mounting, and operating the Starlink Mini satellite device. This bag ensures full performance and protection without compromise, even when the device operates inside the bag.

Key Features:

• Seamless Use: Operate the Starlink Mini directly inside the bag with the kickstand stowed or deployed, maintaining full functionality without sacrificing protection.

• Impact Protection: The design incorporates a removable impact plate made of CURV®, an advanced thermoplastic known for its strength, durability, and lightweight properties. Combined with a removable 0.25″ high-density foam panel, it offers advanced protection against impacts without affecting performance.

• Flexible Mounting: The back features the Multimount Plate, allowing for MOLLE/PALS mounting, backpack strap attachment, and secure horizontal or vertical mounting with various straps. Laser-cut mounting holes facilitate easy attachment of vehicle magnets, suction cups, or other bolting options.

• Cable & Battery Management: The interior is loop-lined to accept all hook/Velcro® -backed inserts, including the Rigid Insert System, enabling organized storage of battery banks and cables. A shielded cable pass-through allows for external power connections and secure, weatherproof cabling.

• Weather & Dust Resistance: Designed to be highly water and dust resistant, the bag ensures reliable performance in harsh conditions.

• Proven Performance: Extensively tested in diverse environments, including heavy rain, with no reduction in speed or signal quality.

Specifications:

• Weight: 10.5 oz (bag only); 3 lb 5 oz with Starlink

• Dimensions: 12.5″ x 11″ x 1″ (bag only); 12.5″ x 11″ x 2.5″ (with Starlink); 12.5″ x 11″ x 5″ (with Starlink stand extended)

• Compliance: Made in the USA with domestically sourced materials; Berry Compliant; NIR Compliant

The Starlink Mini Bag is ideal for military, law enforcement, search and rescue teams, overlanding enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers, enhancing the durability, portability, and usability of the Starlink Mini device.

For more information, visit forgeconcepts.com/products/starlink-mini-bag.

Gentex Corporation Introduces 4 New Products at SHOT Show 2025

Tuesday, January 21st, 2025

CARBONDALE, PA, January 21, 2024 – Gentex Corporation, a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, emergency responders, and industrial personnel, announced the launch of several new products. These include the Ops-Core® Mk2 Ballistic Eyewear, Ops-Core RAILINK® power and data system in black, new high-visibility color options for the Ops-Core FAST® Bump helmet, and the Gentex® LX9™ Liner System.

Introducing the Ops-Core Mk2 Ballistic Eyewear
The Ops-Core’s Mk2 sets a new standard for high performance optics. Designed for elite defense and law enforcement, it features a robust aluminum frame, integrates seamlessly with helmets and headsets, and features an interchangeable lens system. Specialized lenses—LEP Eclipse and Eclipse NIR—provide adaptability for mission specific needs while clear, tint and high contrast options are also available.

Launch of Ops-Core RAILINK in Black
RAILINK, the only production, US DOD fielded power and datasystem, is now available in black, designed to meet the needs of elite law enforcement. The system’s streamlined versatility is supported by cutting edge accessories from SureFire, Princeton Tec, and Core Survival with many more under development. Available Q1 2025, more information can be found at here [https://www.gentexcorp.com/introducing-railink/].

Two New Color Options for Ops-Core FAST Bump Search and Rescue
Ops-Core is expanding its FAST Bump helmet line with high-visibility options—orange and red—for search and rescue operations. These high-visibility colors offer maximum visibility for search and rescue mission without sacrificing weight or the proven reliability and performance of the FAST Bump helmet.

Introducing the Gentex LX9 Liner System
Gentex’s LX9 Liner System is a lightweight, modular solution for the most common ground combat helmets. It delivers enhanced comfort,breathability, and military specification impact protection while allowing quick, one size fits all installation and best in class communication systems compatibility.

“These product launches highlight our ability to design innovative solutions while staying closely connected to the needs of our end users,” said Rafe Bennett, Vice President of Product Management at Gentex Corporation. “We’re proud to bring these advancements to market, reflecting our expertise and commitment to supporting those who rely on our products in the field.”

To learn more about these exciting new products, please visit shop.gentexcorp.com/shot-show .

Princeton Tec Announces Charge X IR Max

Tuesday, January 21st, 2025

PENNSAUKEN, NJ. –  January 21, 2025 – Princeton Tec, a renowned provider of American-made quality outdoor and tactical lighting options is excited to introduce a new addition to its extensive line of high-quality helmet lights with the Charge X IR Max launching at the 2025 SHOT Show in Las Vegas January 21-24. The new light is an upgrade to the existing Charge line of Princeton Tec products, following the Charge X.

The new USA-Made Charge X IR Max is an expansion of Princeton Tec’s signature Modular Personal Lighting System (MPLS) line of products and includes all mounts and hardware necessary to optimize compatibility for customer preference. The new Charge X IR Max is also compatible with existing Charge mounts and mounts to hook ‘n loop, helmets, above rails, MOLLE/PALS, EXFIL® rails, ARC, MLOK® and head straps, allowing for even more adaptation to various platforms.

The Charge X IR Max is the lowest-profile helmet light on the market. As the ultimate all-in-one helmet lighting solution, the Charge X IR Max is powered by a single CR123 lithium or one AA battery, with a light that features a 100-lumen dimmable light. This light is programmed in white, red, green, blue and IR LEDs. With a simple user interface, the operator can easily program the color order based on needs and preferences. 

The Charge X IR Max features an upgraded version of Princeton Tec’s signature flexible boom that allows for easy and accurate spot illumination that adapts to the task at hand. The small size of the Charge X IR Max occupies little space, allowing plenty of room for other vital rail attachments. The low-drag design makes for a tighter fit to the helmet and a more low-profile layout. 

The Charge X is also rated IPX8 for water resistance, has an impressive run-time of 50 hours and has an MSRP of $159.99.

Attendees at the 2025 SHOT Show can get a first-hand look at the Charge X IR Max at the Princeton Tec Booth #62103 January 21-24.

For more information on Princeton Tec, please visit www.princetontec.com or find Princeton Tec on Instagram and Facebook. 

TNVC Introduces the Aether Optics Specter Panoramic Night Vision Goggle (PNVG) at SHOT 2025

Tuesday, January 21st, 2025

Las Vegas, Nevada

TNVC is proud to announce among the new releases debuting at the 2025 NSSF SHOT Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, the Aether Optics Specter Panoramic Night Vision Goggle (PNVG)!

tnvc.com/shop/aether-optics-specter-pnvg-panoramic-night-vision-goggle

Founded as a joint endeavor between a former USSOCOM capabilities developer and a JPL engineer, the Specter LWPNVG is the first U.S. developed, designed, and manufactured commercial production panoramic night vision goggle to be available on the market, and has undergone extensive testing by a wide range of professional and enthusiast end-users.

While panoramic goggles are not new to the VAS marketplace, with many companies attempting to replicate the success of the GPNVG to various degrees, the Aether Optics Specter PNVG is the first to be privately developed in the United States for individual users and enthusiaststhat is not simply an adaptation or copy of an existing panoramic goggle system.

The name, Specter PNVG, is derived from the Spectral Bat (Vampyrum spectrum), the largest predatory bat native to the Americas and an apex predator within its ecological niche. The Specter PNVG housing is built from a combination of high strength MJF polymer with aluminum and carbon fiber components for added strength and durability, the Specter PNVG is designed for rugged use, and easily serviced and maintained by qualified technicians and is compatible with all standard 18MM Gen. 3 MX-10160 format image intensifier tubes and based on user requirements, and is compatible with both standard, BNVS dovetail mounts as well as the Swift Universal FPG-21 advanced helmet mount.

The Specter PNVG is powered by a remote battery pack power supply that can be adapted to either ANVIS-style LEMO power supplies such as the LPBP-GO (Low Profile Battery Pack, Ground Optimized) or the USSOCOM standard BNVS connector utilized on the AN/PVS-31A BNVD. Among the Specter’s features are novel and intuitive method of IPD (interpupillary adjustment) that is simultaneously extremely secure, but resistant to impacts and damage that could result in breakage or binding in other fixed bridge goggle systems.

Like all TNVC in-house built systems, the AO Specter PNVG is built to order and lead times may apply. AO Specter PNVG systems are available to order now through TNVC and will be on display at TNVC’s Booth 62211 during NSSF SHOT Show 2025, January 21-24—swing by and check it out, along with our other exciting new releases!

tnvc.com/shop/aether-optics-specter-pnvg-panoramic-night-vision-goggle

Founded in 2005, Tactical Night Vision Company (TNVC) is a Veteran-Owned small business which specializes in providing industry-leading visual augmentation systems, modified-COTS solutions, and systems integration as well as training, education, and life-cycle support to government and commercial customers alike.

For all inquires please contact: marketing@tnvc.com

TNVC x Envision Technology SHOT Show 2025 Introducing: Envision Technology RAIL Rail-Mounted Aiming / Illumination Laser

Tuesday, January 21st, 2025

NSSF SHOT Show, Booths 62211 and 56108, Las Vegas, Nevada—

TNVC and Envision Technology are proud to publicly unveil the new Envision Technology RAIL (Rail-Mounted Aiming / Illumination Laser) and RAILc (Rail-Mounted Aiming / Illumination Laser, Commercial) weapon-mounted NIR/VIS miniature aiming laser at the Envision Technology booth, #56108 and the TNVC booth, #62211 at the 2025 NSSF SHOT Show in Las Vegas, Nevada!

The RAIL and RAILc are in production now MSRP for the RAILc Class 3R commercial variant is $3,699 and willavailable for pre-order at TNVC with deliveries estimated to begin in late-summer 2025.

tnvc.com/shop/envision-technology-rail-rail-mounted-aiming-illumination-laser

envision-tek.com/products

The RAIL and RAILc share their DNA with the Envision MARS Miniature Advanced Rangefinder System (MARS), which was recently awarded a contract by USSOCOM for the Miniature Aiming Ranging Laser (MARL) program and has been developed and tested while integrating extensive feedback from end-users, resulting in a highly intuitive and ergonomic multi-function aiming laser (MFAL) system in an exceptionally small form factor, weighing under 6 ounces, including the onboard, laterally mounted CR123 battery, making it more resistant to recoil and weapon shock even when used on belt fed or heavy caliber weapons.

The RAIL and RAILc feature coaligned, output adjustable NIR and visible aiming lasers as well as an independently adjustable (elevation/wind/beam divergence/ output power) VCSEL NIR illumination laser and a wide-angle NIR LED illuminator for confined spaces or Close Quarters Battle (CQB) and is user configurable for VIS and CQB override modes and are available with either green and red visible aiming lasers as well as Class 3B (Restricted) and Class 3R (Commercial) output variants.

 

The RAIL and RAILc measure <3.7” x 2.4” x 1.4” (height above rail), about the size of a pack of Class A cigarettesand occupying a similar footprint to the USSOCOM LA-23 aiming laser.

Yet despite its small size, like the MARS, the RAIL and RAILc is once again a masterclass in human factors engineering, ergonomics, and “switchology” for weapon-mounted low-light enablers featuring control interfaces that are both large and distinct enough to be distinguished and activated in the dark by feel alone even while wearing gloves without creating snag points or protuberances from the main housing, adding to the overall rail space needed for effective control and manipulation. The RAIL’sswitchology is a testament to the insight possessed by Envision’s design, engineering, and leadership teams and gained from decades of designing and building world-class NIR aiming lights and lasers with direct end-user feedback.

Even the attachment for the RAIL’s optional three-button remote switch is smartly designed, featuring an environmentally sealed, flat attachment point rather than a “plug port” that is self-contained within the device footprint, creating a further “rail-estate” penalty for using remote device activation, and remote switches are available in 6”, 12”, and 20” lengths to provide maximum flexibility to end-users for a multitude of platforms and mounting configurations.

The RAIL and RAILc are in production now, and the RAILcClass 3R commercial variant and will available for pre-order at TNVC with deliveries estimated to begin in late-summer 2025 (MSRP $3,699). Class 3B variants are also available for order now to qualified parties, for more information, please visit our websites or contact govsales@tnvc.com or sales@envision-tek.com

https://tnvc.com/shop/envision-technology-rail-rail-mounted-aiming-illumination-laser

envision-tek.com/products

And if you’re at the 2025 NSSF SHOT Show, swing by both Envision Technology at Booth 56108 at SHOT eXtraon the 5th Floor, Palazzo Ballroom from January 22-23 ONLY, or all week at the TNVC Booth 62211 in the Galileo Ballroom, 1st Floor of the Venetian, the Law Enforcement area!

Founded in 2005, Tactical Night Vision Company (TNVC) is a Veteran-Owned small business which specializes in providing industry-leading visual augmentation systems, modified-COTS solutions, and systems integration as well as training, education, and life-cycle support to government and commercial customers alike.

For all inquires please contact: marketing@tnvc.com