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Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

DroneShield Establishes European Manufacturing Footprint to Advance Sovereign Counter-UAS Capability

Thursday, March 12th, 2026

Sydney, Australia – 11 March 2026 – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-drone technology, today announced the establishment of counter-UAS manufacturing in the EU, marking a major expansion of the Company’s European industrial footprint and manufacturing capacity. The announcement follows increased momentum across the continent, with national military investments growing under the ReArm Europe Plan / Readiness 2030 initiative, accelerating the need for mature, scalable, and sovereign counter-UAS capability.

Under a new collaboration with an experienced and established manufacturer, production of European-made counter-UAS systems is now underway, with delivery scheduled for mid-2026. The contract manufacturer will carry out full turnkey assembly and component manufacturing, including PCB assembly, precision machining, cable and wire harness assembly, and associated assembly and testing labor. As part of this collaboration, DroneShield has established and will continue to grow a primarily EU-based supply chain, making this the Company’s only production line currently outside of Australia.

DroneShield’s European manufacturing footprint positions the Company more competitively for EU procurement opportunities, which increasingly prioritizes sovereign capability, regional production, and resilient supply chains, ensuring DroneShield can meet these expectations while delivering at scale and with reduced lead times.

Image: DroneShield have established a European production line

Oleg Vornik, Chief Executive of DroneShield said, “Europe is undergoing a profound shift in counter-UAS preparedness. By establishing dedicated manufacturing in the EU, DroneShield is contributing to Europe’s sovereign capability while continuing to deliver rapidly and reliably for our European customers. The ReArm Europe Plan / Readiness 2030 initiative has highlighted the importance of localized, scalable production, and this new production line positions us to meet that demand.”

The establishment of counter-UAS production in Europe forms part of DroneShield’s global manufacturing expansion, which is planned to grow the Company’s combined total annual production capacity from approximately $500 million in 2025 to an expected $2.4 billion by the end of 2026. This uplift supports rising operational demand across Europe, and reinforces DroneShield’s commitment to strengthening industrial bases and diversifying global supply chains, as militaries, law enforcement and critical infrastructure operators expand and modernize counter-UAS capabilities.

Harnessing AI for the Future: Army Unveils Project ARIA

Thursday, March 12th, 2026

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army today announced the launch of Project ARIA, or Army Rapid Implementation of Artificial Intelligence, an Army initiative that harnesses AI to modernize Army operations and empower Soldiers.

Project ARIA addresses critical Army challenges by partnering with leading technology companies to develop practical AI solutions that deliver real results for warfighters.

“Through Project ARIA, we are building the Army of tomorrow, today,” said Deputy Under Secretary of the Army David R. Fitzgerald. “By working with the nation’s top minds in artificial intelligence, we are rapidly developing and deploying smart tools that empower our Soldiers, streamline our operations, and ensure our readiness for any challenge.”

Three Teams, Three Solutions

The initiative launched following a successful AI tabletop exercise hosted by Secretary of the Army Hon. Daniel P. Driscoll on Sept. 16, 2025, where Army leaders collaborated directly with AI experts to tackle real operational problems. Project ARIA is initially focused on three key areas:

Team Gray is creating agentic AI tools to automate the Army’s complex planning, programming, budgeting, and execution, or PPBE, process. The new tools will enable Army leaders to make faster, better-informed decisions and free up Soldiers and civilians to focus on core missions rather than paperwork.

Team Black is developing a “model armory” to serve all operational levels, from datacenters to the tactical edge. Soldiers query based on their needs, and the system delivers custom AI capabilities ready to operate in denied environments.

Team Yellowstone is using AI to revolutionize supply chain management, starting at Anniston Army Depot. The AI agent will predict equipment maintenance needs and ensure parts are available before problems occur, reducing vehicle downtime.

“Project ARIA is about delivering real capabilities, not endless development cycles,” Fitzgerald added. “This initiative is designed for speed and agility, ensuring we get cutting-edge technology into the hands of our Soldiers as quickly as possible.”

A New Approach to Innovation

Project ARIA represents a fundamental shift in how the Army develops and deploys technology. By partnering directly with top AI firms, the Army is delivering solutions in months rather than years.

“Project ARIA is a testament to the power of collaboration between the Army and the nation’s leading innovators in artificial intelligence,” said Fitzgerald. “By breaking down barriers and fostering agile partnerships with industry, we are accelerating the development and deployment of cutting-edge solutions. Together, we are building an Army that is smarter, faster, and more capable than ever before.”

The initiative focuses on removing administrative burdens from Soldiers so they can concentrate on training, readiness, and mission execution. By automating time-consuming processes, Project ARIA will enhance both operational effective and quality of life for service members.

As the Army continues to evolve to meet modern challenges, Project ARIA represents a commitment to leveraging the latest technology to ensure operational readiness and effectiveness. Project ARIA also demonstrates to industry experts that the Army is prepared and open to collaborate to harness best practices and technological breakthroughs. The initiative positions the Army as a leader in military AI applications while ensuring Soldiers have the best tools available to accomplish their missions.

By U.S. Army Public Affairs

UK Ministry of Defence Selects Persistent Systems’ Wave Relay MANET for Project CAIN Modernization

Thursday, March 12th, 2026

Multi-million dollar contract signals the growing proliferation of MPU5 devices deployed across world

NEW YORK, New York — March 10, 2026 — Persistent Systems, LLC (“Persistent”), a global leader in secure mobile ad hoc networking (MANET) technology, announced that the UK Ministry of Defence has selected the Wave Relay® MANET, including the MPU5 tactical communication system, in support of Project CAIN, a key modernization effort for the British Army.

Awarded through Persistent’s UK partner and authorized distributor Steatite Ltd., the program will deliver MPU5 radios, Rugged Display & Controllers (RDCs), and associated Dismount Kit equipment to the 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team, the UK’s rapidly deployable, first-to-fight airborne formation.

As part of this effort, 16 Air Assault will also employ Cloud Relay™, Persistent’s global networking technology, enabling soldiers to maintain uninterrupted communications, even when transitioning between SATCOM, LTE, 5G, or other transport layers. This ensures resilient connectivity in complex, contested, and highly mobile environments.

“By deploying the MPU5 and Cloud Relay™, the 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team will gain a significant advantage in decision-making and coordination across dispersed, multi-domain operations,” said Eve Shapiro, Senior Director of Sales and Business Development at Persistent Systems. “We’ve seen exceptional results with the UK Royal Marines, and we expect similar success as more organizations recognize the operational impact of a resilient, edge-to-cloud network.”

This selection builds on the UK’s ongoing modernization progress. In 2024, the UK Royal Marines fielded more than 2,000 MPU5s as part of their transformation into a more agile, technology-enabled Commando Force. The 16 Air Assault effort marks another step in strengthening the UK’s ability to operate with speed, precision, and interoperability alongside allies.

Persistent Systems continues to support modernization initiatives worldwide, including programs within the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) efforts, maritime security initiatives across the Baltic region, and Indo-Pacific partner networks. The increased adoption of the MPU5 across Europe, including deployments in the Baltics, Spain, France, and the UK, reflects the growing demand for scalable, resilient MANET capabilities.

The UK MoD’s decision underscores a broader trend of successful modernizations of forces, which require secure, adaptable, and globally connected networks to maintain situational awareness and operational advantage in dynamic, contested environments.

iRocket Completes Successful iRX-100 Missile Test with Arnold Defense Launcher

Thursday, March 12th, 2026

Successful integration test of iRX-100 missile with Arnold Defense launcher 

Missile reached Mach 2 and ~6 km range during flight demonstration 

Programme targets scalable counter-UAS capability compatible with existing launch platforms 

(HAPPUAGE, NY, March 10, 2026) — iRocket announced today the successful completion of the iRX-100 test using a launcher provided by Arnold Defense. The demonstration validated launcher integration and system performance, marking a significant milestone: the missile successfully reached Mach 2, traveled approximately 6 km, and is now fully qualified for use with Arnold Defense’s launcher system. 

The test supports iRocket’s efforts to deliver a scalable, production-ready capability for urgent defense needs. By focusing on repeatability, traceability, and high throughput, the company is industrializing missile and propulsion manufacturing capacity in the United States to meet rapidly evolving requirements. 

“Today’s successful iRX-100 demonstration with Arnold Defense’s launcher proves we can deliver a modern, scalable counter-UAS effect with speed and repeatability,” said Asad Malik, CEO of iRocket. “We’re rebuilding the arsenal of freedom by combining high-rate manufacturing, robotics-driven quality, and a partner ecosystem that can surge production when the mission demands it.” 

The partnership highlights a shift toward pairing combat-proven systems with 21st-century manufacturing techniques. This approach ensures that defense solutions are not only effective in the field but can also be mass-produced to meet large-scale demand. 

Former Secretary of Commerce Hon. Wilbur Ross plays a pivotal role in iRocket’s strategic growth as a member of its Board of Directors and is taking the company public in 2026. Ross has been instrumental in securing international partnerships, such as the $640 million agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Spacebelt, and facilitating other introductions with government customers for iRocket. Highlighting the company’s critical role in modern warfare, Ross noted, “Every day, we and our allies are using up their inventories of small missiles to intercept drones at one-tenth the cost of Patriot missiles. iRocket’s recent launch successes prove its qualifications to meet the demand.” 

By leveraging robotics-enabled consistency and a quality-first discipline, iRocket is positioning itself as a leader in high-rate defense production, ensuring the U.S. and its allies maintain a decisive advantage through industrial readiness. 

iRocket has also secured a position on the Missile Defense Agency’s (MDA) Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense (SHIELD) indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract vehicle. The 10-year program, valued at up to $151 billion, enables the rapid procurement of advanced technologies, engineering capabilities, and research supporting U.S. homeland missile defense, including interceptor and missile systems. 

“Advancing extended-range capability for the 70mm system is about delivering greater reach and effectiveness to the warfighter,” said Chris Mignano, VP of Business Development and Manufacturing at iRocket. “By working closely with our partners and focusing on compatibility with launchers already used by the services, we’ve been able to move quickly and accelerate meaningful capability to the field. This kind of collaboration across the defense industrial base is what will ultimately make the difference for the future of our nation’s security.” 

“As the preeminent 2.75in. rocket launcher manufacturer in the world, we are excited to be working with iRocket as they bring needed improved capability to the 2.75in./70mm rocket,” said Frank Ferrante, Vice President of Programs and Business Development at Arnold Defense and Electronics. “The speed at which they moved to get to this round of testing has been impressive to watch first hand and participate in, and we look forward to continued collaboration efforts between our companies.” 

For more about iRocket, visit www.irocketusa.com

Reptilia Releases ROF-90 for ACRO / MPS (36mm) and Introduces 6-Slot RMU Mount in Flat Dark Earth

Thursday, March 12th, 2026

Reptilia has announced the release of the ROF™-90 for ACRO / MPS (36mm) alongside the introduction of the 6-Slot RMU™ Mount in Flat Dark Earth (FDE), expanding the company’s lineup of precision optic mounting solutions.

The ROF-90 is a purpose-built mounting interface designed to integrate a compact red dot directly into a magnified optic setup. Positioned at the 12 o’clock orientation relative to the primary optic, the ROF-90 allows shooters to instantly transition to a secondary sighting system while maintaining a streamlined, mission-focused optic layout.

Developed in response to end-user demand, the ROF-90 supports the Aimpoint ACRO P1, Aimpoint ACRO P2, and the Steiner MPS optics and is compatible with Reptilia AUS™ 36mm mounts and Geissele Super Precision™ 36mm mounts.

The configuration enables rapid engagement at close range, passive night vision aiming, or other specialized operational applications while maintaining a streamlined optic configuration. Each ROF™ mount positions the auxiliary optic as close to the host scope’s centerline as possible, minimizing offset while preserving sufficient clearance for an unobstructed sight picture.

Reptilia also announced the availability of the 6-Slot RMU™ Mount in Flat Dark Earth, expanding the finish options for the mounting system originally developed at the request of a Department of Defense customer.

The RMU Mount is designed to elevate fixed-height optics such as the EOTech holographic sight line, the Vortex AMG UH-1, and the SIG Sauer ROMEO8T by 0.625 inches, providing improved ergonomics when using helmet-borne night vision systems or when adopting a more upright shooting stance.

Machined from billet 7075-T6 aluminum and finished with MIL-STD Type III hardcoat anodizing, the RMU Mount attaches to any M1913 Picatinny rail. Its spring-loaded nitrided steel clamp and mounting bolt sit flush with the body of the mount, creating a low-profile, anti-snag interface.

Both the ROF-90 and RMU Mount are manufactured in the United States from billet 7075-T6 aluminum and backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects.

SHOP NOW – reptiliacorp.com

Oak Grove Technologies Awarded JIOP Commercial Range Services BPA at Fort Bragg

Thursday, March 12th, 2026

Five-year agreement will provide JIOP with commercial range services at the Oak Grove Test & Training Center in Hoffman, NC.

RALEIGH, N.C., March 10, 2026 — Oak Grove Technologies (OGT) today announces it has been awarded a five-year contract by the Lieutenant General Gavin Joint Innovation Outpost (JIOP) for the use of their multi-domain Test & Training Center in Hoffman, NC.

Under the agreement, OGT will provide commercial range services, realistic training environments, and associated subject matter expertise in support of the U.S. Army’s Joint Innovation Outpost and other authorized Government users.

JIOP operates as a collaborative center that links tactical and operational challenges with rapid, innovative solutions. Bringing together military personnel, academia, and industry, the hub fosters joint efforts to solve problems encountered on the modern battlefield.

“We are proud to support JIOP’s mission through this contract and look forward to contributing to the collaborative efforts that drive innovative solutions for today’s evolving operational challenges.” said Cody Baker, Chief Growth Officer at OGT.

OGT’s Test & Training Center provides a unique environment designed to support testing, training, and demonstration of emerging capabilities across land, water, cyber, and space domains. The facility offers a wide range of purpose-built structures, waterways, and realistic operational settings that enable government and industry partners to rapidly evaluate technologies and tactics in complex, mission-relevant environments. Through partnerships like this agreement with JIOP, OGT continues to advance collaborative innovation that strengthens readiness and supports the evolving needs of the U.S. military.

Hidden Wounds Receives $50,000 Donation from Philip Morris International U.S. to Expand Rapid Mental-Health Stabilization for Veterans

Wednesday, March 11th, 2026

Funding supports lifesaving crisis stabilization, suicide prevention, peer support, and essential services for South Carolina’s at-risk veterans

SUMTER, S.C., March 9, 2026 — Hidden Wounds, a South Carolina-based nonprofit providing immediate mental-health stabilization and long-term support for veterans, today announced a $50,000 donation from Philip Morris International’s U.S. businesses (PMI U.S.). The funding comes at a critical moment as South Carolina and the nation face rising rates of veteran suicide, with an estimated 17.6 veterans dying by suicide every day, according to a 2024 report from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

“Our mission is simple: No veteran should face their darkest hour alone,” said Dr. Lance Newman, Executive Director of Hidden Wounds, CPS, CPT, CSCS (Retired). “The support from PMI U.S. helps us keep our doors open and our hands outstretched to the men and women who sacrificed for us.”

Hidden Wounds fills urgent gaps in care by offering rapid crisis stabilization, peer-led support groups, and warm handoffs to treatment, ensuring that veterans receive fast, practical help when they need it most. In 2025 alone, the organization supported thousands of veterans experiencing PTSD, homelessness, food insecurity, depression, and other invisible wounds – often providing same-day stabilization and ongoing community support.

“Hidden Wounds is meeting veterans where they are, often in moments when they can’t wait days or weeks for help,” said Jake Jacobs, Director of External Affairs, Southeast Region at PMI U.S. “Their team provides immediate stabilization, real human connection, and long-term pathways to recovery, and PMI U.S. is proud to support an organization delivering such pragmatic, lifesaving impact for veterans across South Carolina.”

This gift reflects PMI U.S.’s commitment to pragmatic philanthropy­, advancing practical, measurable results by supporting organizations delivering real impact for the military community. Since 2022, PMI U.S. has invested more than $35 million in charitable giving, including over $7M towards organizations serving U.S. service members, veterans, and their families across legal services, housing, mental health support and emergency economic relief.

In 2025, Hidden Wounds delivered measurable impact across South Carolina:

  • Supported 8,000+ veterans through the food pantry
  • Provided care to 87 veterans in nursing homes
  • Helped 15 veterans move from homelessness to permanent housing
  • Fed 5,800 veterans during Thanksgiving and Christmas
  • Maintained daily in-person support that keeps hundreds of veterans connected and safe

In partnership with VAlanthropy, Hidden Wounds recently broke ground on Village Alpha, a permanent housing community consisting of 650-square-foot apartments designed to help veterans stabilize, rebuild, and integrate. Construction began in February 2026 in Sumter, South Carolina, with the aim to offer immediate housing for veterans in need in addition to the other offerings and support Hidden Wounds provides.

ZeroTech Introduces the Thrive HD Micro Prism 1x in FDE

Wednesday, March 11th, 2026

Nashville, TN — ZeroTech Optics proudly announces the launch of the Thrive HD Micro Prism 1x in FDE, a compact prism optic engineered for rapid target acquisition, rugged durability, and refined aiming precision.

Designed to combine the speed of a red dot with the precision advantages of a prism optic, the new Micro Prism delivers a crisp etched ZT Prism Dot Reticle that remains visible even without illumination. This design offers a cleaner aiming point for shooters with astigmatism while maintaining the speed required for dynamic shooting environments.

Machined from a solid billet of 6061 T6 aluminum, the optic is built to withstand demanding field conditions while maintaining a lightweight and compact footprint. The generous eye relief allows shooters to maintain comfortable positioning and shoot with both eyes open, maximizing situational awareness during fast-paced shooting scenarios.

The Thrive HD Micro Prism includes four configurable mounting heights, allowing shooters to tailor the optic to their preferred setup and rifle platform. Fully multi-coated lenses provide exceptional clarity and a wide field of view, enabling quick target transitions and improved awareness.

With 13 adjustable brightness settings, including three night-vision compatible levels, the optic adapts to a wide range of lighting conditions. A built-in motion sensor with auto-sleep and auto-on functionality helps conserve battery life while ensuring the optic is ready when needed.

Key Features

Variable Mounting Heights
Four configurable mounting options allow shooters to customize their setup across different firearm platforms and shooting styles.

Robust Construction
CNC-machined 6061 T6 aluminum housing provides durability and impact resistance for demanding field conditions.

Etched Reticle
The ZT Prism Dot Reticle remains visible even without illumination, providing a precise aiming point in any lighting environment.

Expansive Eye Relief
Generous eye relief allows comfortable shooting with both eyes open for faster target acquisition.

Enhanced Optical Clarity
Fully multi-coated lenses provide a bright image and wide field of view for improved situational awareness.

Specifications

Magnification: 1x
Objective Lens Diameter: 20mm
Reticle: ZT Prism Dot Reticle (etched)
Brightness Settings: 13 (including 3 NV)
Battery Life: Up to 5,000 hours
Turret Adjustment: 1 MOA per click
Elevation / Windage Range: 90 MOA
Eye Relief: 90mm
Field of View: 70 ft @ 100 yards
Weight: Approx. 7.5 oz (with mount and battery)
Waterproof Rating: IPX7
Construction: 6061 T6 Aluminum

In The Box

  • Thrive HD 1x Micro Prism Sight
  • Three additional variable height mounts (four total mounting options)
  • CR2032 battery (installed)
  • Neoprene protective scope cover
  • Microfiber cleaning cloth
  • Welcome card with QR code for product manual

The Thrive HD Micro Prism expands the growing ZeroTechlineup with a compact optic that bridges the gap between the simplicity of a red dot and the refined aiming precision of a prism optic.

Learn more about the Thrive HD Micro Prism 1x at ZeroTech.