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General Dynamics Mission Systems Selected to Deliver Next-Generation Terrain Shaping Capability for the US Army

Wednesday, September 30th, 2026

Autonomously emplaced Versatile Networked Obstacle Munitions (VNOM) system restores counter-mobility capability

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – General Dynamics Mission Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), has been selected by the U.S. Army Project Manager Close Combat Systems to develop and demonstrate the Versatile Networked Obstacle Munitions (VNOM) System, addressing a critical counter-mobility capability for the Army.

As one of three contractors selected for award, General Dynamics Mission Systems self-funded the VNOM development from concept to demonstrated prototype prior to award. The system autonomously emplaces mixed-modal effectors combining air, side and bottom attack modes into a coordinated obstacle, removing Soldiers from the contested zone entirely. The contract accelerates development of a next-generation, terrain-shaping system of systems, with the prototype effort structured to evaluate readiness, effectiveness and suitability for future development, production and fielding.

“VNOM is not a concept paper. It is a demonstrated, Soldier-informed system that General Dynamics Mission Systems self-funded and built on years of integration experience with Combat Engineer units,” said Todd Hack, vice president of Advanced Electronic Systems at General Dynamics Mission Systems. “We are proud to deliver a solution that keeps Soldiers out of harm’s way while providing the counter-mobility superiority our forces need.”

“This effort and these three contractors will take advantage of emerging technology to rapidly provide our warfighters with a next-generation obstacle capability that is both adaptable and responsive to dynamic operational environments. By integrating advanced technologies into a cohesive system of systems, we will enable U.S. and U.K. commanders to shape the battlefield with greater precision and at significantly reduced risk to personnel,” said Col. Vince Morris, Program Manager Close Combat Systems.

General Dynamics Mission Systems leads a team including AeroVironment, General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, General Dynamics Land Systems, Swarmbotics AI, Corvid, SARA and Harkind.

General Dynamics Mission Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), provides mission-critical solutions to the challenges facing our defense, intelligence and cybersecurity customers across all domains. Headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, General Dynamics Mission Systems employs approximately 12,000 people worldwide. For more information about the General Dynamics Mission Systems broad portfolio of capabilities, visit gdmissionsystems.com.

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American Rheinmetall to Produce and Upgrade MK93 Enhanced Softmounts Under New ADS Order

Wednesday, September 30th, 2026

American Rheinmetall’s Maine production facility will manufacture and upgrade thousands of MK93 enhanced softmount systems under a new order supporting U.S. Army requirements through defense contractor ADS Inc and the Defense Logistics Agency. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2026 and continue through October 2027.

The order includes production of 3,104 new MK93 enhanced softmount systems as well as upgrades to 245 previously delivered mounts, bringing all systems to the current configuration. The total order value is $20.7M (€ 18.05M).

The MK93 enhanced softmount provides a stable, durable, and mission-ready mounting solution for crew?served weapon systems. Its design supports reliability, configuration commonality, and long?term sustainment, ensuring U.S. forces have equipment aligned with modern operational requirements. The program underscores American Rheinmetall’s ongoing commitment to U.S. defense customers through domestic manufacturing and sustainment capabilities.

This order also reflects the strong engagement and support from Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, who continues to champion defense manufacturing initiatives in Maine. Her collaboration helps reinforce the importance of sustaining critical industrial capabilities that directly contribute to U.S. force readiness. “American Rheinmetall’s skilled employees in Biddeford are continuing our state’s tradition of manufacturing high-quality, reliable equipment for America’s service members, and I am proud to support their important work,” said Senator Susan Collins. “The Army’s purchase of more than 3,000 weapon mounting systems is welcome news for the York County economy and demonstrates the critical role Maine workers play in our national defense.”

“This award reflects the confidence our U.S. defense customers place in American Rheinmetall to deliver reliable, mission-ready solutions that support the operational needs of U.S. forces,” said Michael Thibault, Director of Business Development, American Rheinmetall. “Our Maine facility takes great pride in producing and upgrading these systems, ensuring they are ready for the demands of today’s missions.”

The order strengthens American Rheinmetall’s role within the U.S. defense industrial base and aligns with broader industry priorities including modernization, standardization, and domestic production. Additional follow?on orders are anticipated, with specifics to be confirmed at a later date.

American Rheinmetall continues to support U.S. defense programs with U.S.-produced weapon system components and sustainment solutions. The MK93 enhanced softmount is also available for commercial sale to eligible customers, subject to applicable regulations and export controls.

About Rheinmetall in the U.S.

The Rheinmetall family of U.S. companies includes American Rheinmetall in Auburn Hills, MI (HQ); Biddeford, ME; Lansing, MI; Lapeer, MI; Plymouth, MI; St. Marys, OH; and Vienna, VA, as well as American Rheinmetall Munitions in Camden, AR; Texarkana, TX (Expal USA); Vienna, VA (HQ); and Windham, ME.

www.rheinmetall-us.com

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Ikonick Energetics Opens State-of-the-Art Primer Manufacturing Facility

Wednesday, September 30th, 2026

New South Florida campus projected to manufacture approximately 1 billion primers annually and create more than 200 jobs.

Stuart, Fla. (September 2026) – Ikonick Energetics today officially opened its new primer manufacturing facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in South Florida, marking a milestone for domestic ammunition component production. The invitation-only event, held from 10 a.m. to noon, drew guests who included industry leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders for a first look at one of only a handful of facilities of its kind operating in the United States. The ribbon-cutting ceremony included a complimentary brunch, a tour of the new primer facility, as well as a tour of the Ikonick USA ammunition facility. Keynote speakers included Peter Belk, Former Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for Readiness; J. Alex Kelly, Florida Secretary of Commerce; Erich Pratt, SVP, Gun Owners of America; and ceremony host Barry Skolnick, owner, Ikonick USA/Ikonick Energetics/Ikonick Motors.

The campus represents a significant capital investment in South Florida’s manufacturing sector. At full production capacity, the facility is designed to produce approximately 1 billion primers per year, supplying a critical component used in commercial and law enforcement ammunition. With only a small number of comparable facilities operating nationwide, Ikonick Energetics’ new plant strengthens the domestic supply chain for energetics manufacturing.

The project is expected to create more than 200 new jobs in South Florida, spanning manufacturing, engineering, quality assurance, and administrative roles. Ikonick Energetics has stated that hiring is ongoing, with positions open to qualified candidates in the region.

“Today marks the realization of years of hard work, strategic investment, and an unwavering commitment to American manufacturing,” said Nelson Levy, CEO of Ikonick Energetics. “This facility is more than a production site; it’s a statement that world-class energetics manufacturing can and does happen right here in South Florida. We are proud to bring hundreds of good-paying jobs to this community and to play a meaningful role in securing the nation’s ammunition supply chain.”

With its expanded manufacturing footprint, Ikonick Energetics intends to scale production in phases as demand warrants. Its ammunition facility, Ikonick USA, continues to operate near the new primer plant and will benefit from the tighter vertical integration the new facility provides.

For more information on Ikonick USA, visit ikonickusa.com.

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Leupold Announces New MX-6HD 8-48×60 First Focal Plane Spotting Scope

Tuesday, September 29th, 2026

BEAVERTON, Ore. — Leupold & Stevens, Inc., provider of the world’s most rugged, lightweight, and clear sport optics, is pleased to announce the launch of its new MX-6HD family of spotting scopes.

The MX-6HD first focal plane (FFP) spotting scope is built for individuals and teams who need more than just a clear image. Whether you’re calling impacts, scanning terrain, or identifying targets at distance, it delivers the clarity, control, and confidence to make the right call the first time. It is available now in one of four reticle options: PR2-MIL, Tremor 4, TMR, and the new FOV reticle, which is a simple circle that indicates the edge of your field of view at high (48x) power. Two additional reticles, the H32 and MIL-GRID 6, are available for Military and Law Enforcement purchase.

“When you’re engaging a target as a team, the spotter and shooter need to be seeing the same thing and speaking the same language,” said John Snodgrass, Product Line Manager for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. “The MX-6HD helps make sure that’s the case. It’s optically fantastic, is loaded with professional-level features, and is available in some of the most popular reticle options. You won’t find a better solution.”

The MX-6HD is built around Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System, which provides bright, low-light resolution with superior glare reduction and the edge-to-edge clarity needed for positive, long-range target identification. It is designed to operate just like a riflescope and has a side-image focus plus an independent eyepiece diopter for optical reticle and image clarity. The folded light-path design and lightweight magnesium construction keep the profile compact without sacrificing magnification or optical performance, giving you a more packable, field-ready solution.

The low 8x starting power supports night-vision use, while its top end 48x allows for long-distance observation.

Removable Picatinny and M-LOK rails enable easy mounting of laser designators, thermal, night-vision systems, or other accessories. The unit offers quick tripod integration with dual Arca-Swissmounting surfaces. It also includes flip-up lens covers, interchangeable eyecups, and a heavy-duty hard case.

The MX-6HD is waterproof, fogproof, and guaranteed to perform for life. It is proudly designed, machined, and assembled in Leupold’s Beaverton, Ore., factory.

For more information on Leupold products, please visit us at Leupold.com.

Join the discussion on Facebook at Facebook.com/LeupoldOptics, on X at Twitter.com/LeupoldOptics, or on Instagram at Instagram.com/LeupoldOptics.

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Darley Welcomes Jack “J.” Taylor III to Fire Advisory Board

Tuesday, September 29th, 2026

ITASCA, IL – September 29, 2026 – Darley, a leading provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jack “J.” Taylor III to its Fire Advisory Board.

Jack “J.” Taylor III brings more than three decades of fire service leadership to the Darley Fire Advisory Board. A retired Fire Chief with 33 years of service, Taylor held executive leadership roles with the Pearland, Trophy Club, and Irving Fire Departments, where he championed operational excellence, organizational health, and firefighter well-being. He is widely recognized for advancing firefighter health and safety initiatives, including cancer prevention, mental health, resiliency, and peer support programs. Following his retirement from the Pearland Fire Department, where he led the organization to multiple industry recognitions, Taylor joined Siddons-Martin Emergency Group as Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives. His extensive experience in emergency services leadership, combined with a steadfast commitment to servant leadership and developing high-performing teams, brings valuable insight and perspective to the Darley Fire Advisory Board.

J comments, “I’m honored and excited to join the Darley Fire Advisory Board and have the opportunity to contribute to an organization with such a long history of serving the fire service. After 33 years in the first service, I hope to bring the perspective of a fire chief and organizational leader, while also drawing on my current corporate experience working alongside departments and industry partners. I look forward to listening, sharing ideas, and helping Darley continue to find innovative ways to support firefighters and the communities they serve.”

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BlackPoint Tactical Duty Holsters See Widespread Adoption Across Agencies Worldwide

Monday, September 28th, 2026

ALPHARETTA, G.A. – September 28, 2026 – BlackPoint Tactical, a High Speed Gear Products Group brand, is seeing widespread adoption of its duty holsters among law enforcement and military agencies around the globe. As agencies evaluate modern alternatives for their officers and operators, the BlackPoint Duty Series is gaining momentum for its combination of reliable retention, intuitive operation and adaptability across evolving equipment requirements.

The growing adoption reflects a shared need across agencies: a duty holster that provides uncompromising weapon security without sacrificing a fast, consistent draw. The BlackPoint Duty Series, which includes the Enhanced Duty Holster (EDH), Slick Duty Holster (SDH), Concealed Duty Holster (CDH), and the Taser 10 Ark-Lock, was designed and engineered around direct input from real-world users operating in demanding environments.

At the center of the platform is BlackPoint’s patented Master Grip Concept. The retention lever is positioned so users can establish a natural master grip and deactivate the retention mechanisms without the additional hand articulation required by many traditional duty holsters. The result is a smooth, repeatable draw stroke designed to support faster, more accurate rounds on target. The same core activation mechanics carry across retention levels and into BlackPoint’s TASER® holsters, helping agencies reduce training hurdles when deploying multiple systems.

The Duty Series is available in light-compatible and non-light-compatible configurations and includes the patent-pending SHIM system. By changing the installed SHIM, agencies can configure the holster for multiple weapon lights, allowing the platform to adapt as equipment needs change. Supported configurations continue to expand as BlackPoint responds to agency and end-user demand.

Key features of the BlackPoint Duty Series include:

• Retention Levels: Available in 3 level (EDH family) and 2 level models (SDH family).

• Full Coverage Trigger Guard: Minimizes any object from entering trigger guard while pistol is holstered.

• Optics Cover: Optional Optic Cover to help enclose the optic cavity when holster hood is closed

• Barrel Plug: Allows the holster to function with or without the weapon light attached.

• Retention Lever Overdrive: Lever range of travel beyond release enhancing draw performance.

• Lever Extender: Extends the retention lever to enhance ergonomics based on user preference.

• Material Thickness: Holster features durable unibody 0.125” KYDEX® design.

• Mounting: Compatible with mounts from popular 3rd parties. *Adapter Plate Required

“We are seeing agencies around the world recognize that they do not have to choose between security, speed and adaptability,” said Gary Robbins, Director of Law Enforcement Business Development at High Speed Gear. “The Duty Series was built around the realities officers and operators face in the field, and its growing adoption is strong validation that the platform is meeting those needs.”

“A duty holster must perform every single time,” said Tyler Johnson, VP of Finance and Holster Sales. “The confidence agencies are placing in BlackPoint reflects the work our team has put into delivering a modern, dependable alternative. We are proud to support more professionals globally and will continue expanding the platform as their requirements evolve.”

BlackPoint Duty Series holsters are available through BlackPoint Tactical and authorized dealers. Firearm, light and mounting compatibility options continue to expand. Agencies and dealers interested in product evaluations, fitment information or purchasing support are encouraged to contact the High Speed Gear Products Group team.

For more information about the BlackPoint Duty Series, visit blackpointtactical.com/shop/category/duty-series.

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E-mobility: Rheinmetall Subsidiary Secures Funding for the Development of Innovative Production Processes for the Manufacture of High-Performance NanoLam Capacitors

Sunday, September 27th, 2026

As part of the NanoLink project, Pierburg Pump Technology GmbH, a subsidiary of the Rheinmetall technology group, will be receiving funding at its Hartha site (Mittelsachsen district) for the development of innovative production processes for the manufacture of high-performance NanoLam™ capacitors. The project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and tax revenues, based on the budget approved by the State Parliament of Saxony. In total, the site will receive funding of around 1.5 million euros from the Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB).

The NanoLink project focuses on the research and development of innovative production processes and analytical methods used in the manufacture of intermediate circuit capacitors based on NanoLam™ technology. This is a key technological component which, owing to a wide range of technical advantages over the current state of the art, will be used, amongst other things, in next-generation electric powertrains.
The first European demonstration facility for the manufacture of NanoLam™ capacitors is located at Pierburg Pump Technology GmbH in Hartha, Saxony. Unlike conventional capacitors, dielectric layers in the sub-micrometre range are produced here from thermosetting plastics, with the innovative manufacturing process forming the technological basis. The finished product stands out from established polypropylene film capacitors due to their compactness (capacitance density), lower weight for the same capacitance, higher temperature resistance, dielectric strength and thermal conductivity. These properties and performance characteristics open up applications in the field of electromobility that cannot be achieved with conventional capacitor technology.
As part of the NanoLink project, the individual process steps involved in the manufacture of NanoLam™ capacitors are being systematically further developed for large-scale production. With the clear aim of making this technology available to the wider market, the focus is on cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency and automatability, without compromising on quality and reliability.

In addition to Pierburg Pump Technology GmbH, the project partners include AKON GmbH in Geringswalde, Chemnitz University of Technology and the Laserinstitut Hochschule Mittweida (Laser Institute at University of Applied Sciences Mittweida). The NanoLink consortium brings together extensive expertise in the necessary research and development areas. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that the best possible technologies and processes are integrated into the production process planned for the future. This not only helps to strengthen the domestic economy, but also increases resilience in the value chain and positions Germany as a key player in the global production of components for electric mobility. The success of the NanoLink project will drive forward not only the German but also the European automotive industry. Furthermore, it is expected that the introduction of NanoLam™ capacitor technology will enable a wide range of further applications across various sectors. The project, which began on 1 June 2025, will conclude on 31 January 2028.

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UF PRO Striker Challenge 2026 Brings Competitors from 16 Countries to Pokljuka

Saturday, September 26th, 2026

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (24 September 2026)

On 12 September 2026, UF PRO, part of Mehler Systems, hosted the fourth edition of the Striker Challenge at Pokljuka, Slovenia.

The event received 226 applications from 16 countries. Competitors faced a 15-kilometre alpine course with 19 military-inspired obstacles testing their strength, endurance and focus.

The team category returned in 2026 with a new format. Teams of three faced the same demanding terrain and obstacles, but completing the course required coordination, communication and shared effort.

Each team also had to carry a large wooden Striker Challenge baton from start to finish. The three members had to transport it together while completing the course, adding another challenge to every obstacle and transition.

Competitors could also enter the individual male and female categories. Final rankings were based first on the number of obstacles completed and then on total course time, placing execution ahead of speed. The top three finishers in each category received UF PRO gear vouchers.

The 2026 edition also introduced the Striker Junior Challenge, featuring a one-kilometre course with age-appropriate obstacles in a fun, non-competitive format.

The new course gave younger participants the opportunity to test their abilities and experience their own version of the Striker Challenge, with every child receiving a gift after crossing the finish line.

The accompanying programme brought together UF PRO, Mehler Protection, Oberland Arms, Stryx Motors, Masters of Gloves and the Slovenian Police in the expo area. Visitors could explore products, meet representatives and take part in Stryx Motors vehicle test drives, while the Red Bull DJ truck provided music and drinks.

Partners also contributed directly to the challenge. Mehler Protection, Lindnerhof and Oberland Arms supported dedicated course obstacles, while UF PRO, Lindnerhof, Oberland Arms, Masters of Gloves and Red Bull provided additional prizes and promotional gifts.

Watch the full Striker Challenge 2026 recap on the UF PRO YouTube channel.

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