Phantom Lights

Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

Savage Arms Announces Key Appointments to Strengthen Leadership Team

Wednesday, May 28th, 2025

WESTFIELD, Massachusetts – May 27, 2025 – Savage Arms is pleased to announce several key promotions within the organization as part of its ongoing commitment to growth and excellence. These leadership advancements reflect the company’s dedication to recognizing and fostering talent from within the organization and help position the broader portfolio of brands for success.

Robert Gates, Senior Vice President 

Rob brings over 30 years of experience in the hunting and shooting industry. In 2018, Rob assumed responsibility for sales, marketing and product development at Savage Arms. Before joining Savage, Rob held key roles with major industry leaders such as Smith & Wesson, Glock, Vista Outdoor and Surefire. His deep expertise has played a crucial role in transforming the Savage brand and expanding its product range. In his new position, Rob will oversee product development, sales and marketing for Savage Arms and the Bowtech Archery Group.

Beth Shimanski, Vice President of Marketing

Beth joined Savage in early 2017 after over a decade at Polaris Industries where she held various roles in international and product marketing, along with roles leading product development. At Savage, Beth has led the marketing function for the last 8 years, has helped reshape the brand, and has brought several innovative products to market. In her new role, Beth will continue to oversee marketing for Savage Arms but will also be responsible for the marketing efforts of the Bowtech Archery Group.

Steve Colaluca, Vice President of Operations All Firearms

Steve has been with Savage Arms since 2013 and has held multiple positions at the Westfield facility including Sr. Manager of Factory Operations, Director of Operations and most recently V.P. of Operations. Steve has led a lean transformation of the Westfield production facility, significantly improving efficiency, throughput, and team engagement, in addition to driving cross-functional collaboration across supply chain and engineering. This new role will add the Lakefield, Ontario rimfire factory to Steve’s responsibility, while retaining oversight of operations, product strategy execution, and business performance, now across both facilities.

“These promotions are a testament to the outstanding leadership and expertise demonstrated by our team members,” said Chris Bezzina, CEO/President of Savage Arms and Bowtech Archery Group. “We are excited to see how their continued contributions will drive our companies forward and enhance our ability to serve our customers with new, innovative, and top performing products.”

Motorola Solutions to Acquire Silvus Technologies, a Global Leader in Mission-Critical Mobile Ad-hoc Networks

Wednesday, May 28th, 2025

Acquisition to address increasing safety, security and defense use cases for autonomous systems and secure high bandwidth communications

CHICAGO – May 27, 2025 – Motorola Solutions (NYSE: MSI) today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Silvus Technologies, Inc. (“Silvus”) for $4.4 billion in up-front consideration.  

Based in Los Angeles, California, Silvus designs and develops software-defined high-speed mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) technology that enables highly secure data, video and voice communications without the need for fixed infrastructure. Silvus’ wide range of customers spans autonomous systems manufacturers, military, law enforcement and enterprises around the world.

Silvus’ technology is designed to support frontline operations in the most challenging and contested environments. Silvus’ devices mesh together to establish large, scalable and self-healing networks that adapt to continuous mobility. These robust mobile networks connect people, devices and other nodes over distance and at scale, and seamlessly support bandwidth-intensive technologies like video, sensors and drones.

“Safety at our front doors starts with safety on our front lines,” said Greg Brown, chairman and CEO, Motorola Solutions. “This acquisition underscores our unwavering conviction that technology is the bedrock for protecting communities, securing borders and defending against today’s ever evolving threats, whether in the air, on the ground or in the water. As a result, we’re now expanding our intelligent network footprint and powering next-generation security for those who stand on the front lines everywhere.”

Silvus brings more than 20 years of R&D invested in developing complementary technologies and sophisticated software algorithms for high-performance MANET networks that maximize throughput and connected nodes, mitigate jamming, and minimize detection and interception. The companies expect to combine their exceptional engineering teams and leverage Motorola Solutions’ go-to-market footprint to reach customers globally.  

Babak Daneshrad, PhD, CEO, Silvus Technologies, said, “We’re inspired by Motorola Solutions’ deep tradition of innovation. The idea that safety is the foundation on which better lives are built is not just a deeply held belief our companies share, but is the motivating force behind our R&D and work. I look forward to our future together, unifying the strengths of our advanced engineering teams in pursuit of serving those who protect us all.”

“Finally, I want to thank TJC for their guidance and support on our journey,” said Daneshrad. “It has been a privilege to partner with Babak and the Silvus team, and see their relentless dedication result in disruptive technological advances and safer, more resilient communications for their critical customer base,” said Erik Fagan, Partner and Head of Industrial Technology, TJC. “We look forward to Silvus’ continued success as part of the Motorola Solutions family.”

For more information on the acquisition, please view the investor presentation on the Motorola Solutions Investor Relations website at www.motorolasolutions.com/investors. A conference call and presentation will be hosted on May 28, 2025 at 7:30 a.m. CST. Interested individuals can access the webcast on the Motorola Solutions Investor Relations website, and an archive of the webcast will be available for a limited period of time thereafter.

Transaction Terms
Under the terms of the agreement, Motorola Solutions will acquire Silvus for $4.4 billion in up-front consideration, comprising approximately $4.38 billion in cash (subject to customary adjustments) and approximately $20 million in restricted stock to certain employee equity holders. Additionally, under the terms of the transaction, Silvus has the potential to receive an earnout of up to $600 million in the aggregate based on business performance over consecutive twelve-month periods ending in 2027 and 2028.  

The acquisition is expected to close in Q3 or Q4 of 2025, subject to the receipt of required regulatory approvals.

Saab Receives Order from Canada for the Carl-Gustaf M4 Weapon

Wednesday, May 28th, 2025

Saab has signed a contract with the Government of Canada for the supply of the Carl-Gustaf M4 man-portable, multi-role weapon system.

This announcement coincides with Saab’s participation at CANSEC 2025, Canada’s largest defence and security trade show, taking place in Ottawa on May 28th and 29th.

The order, which includes the Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon and Fire Control Device (FCD) 558, further strengthens the long-standing relationship between Saab and Canada. With this acquisition, Canada joins a growing number of nations equipping their forces with the latest generation of the Carl-Gustaf system.

“This order is a clear example of Saab’s modern, combat-proven capability being in demand by our customers around the world. Canada is an important customer for Saab, and we are proud to continue supporting the Canadian Armed Forces with systems that enhance their operational effectiveness,” says Simon Carroll, President of Saab Canada.  

The Carl-Gustaf system is a globally trusted solution, used by more than 40 countries. Carl-Gustaf M4, the latest version of the system, features a lightweight design, integrated electronics, and compatibility with future intelligent sighting systems and programmable ammunition. It enables soldiers to respond quickly to a wide range of battlefield challenges including armour, structures, and personnel.

Miami Armored Integrates Starlink into an Armored Cadillac Escalade VIP Limousine, Enabling Global Connectivity

Tuesday, May 27th, 2025

As U.S.A’s only armored vehicle dealership, Miami Armored® continues to push the boundaries of armored luxury, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge bulletproof technology into its elite vehicle lineup. Their latest innovation features a fully optimized Starlink system within their class-leading executive armored Cadillac Escalade ”Chairman” limousine. This groundbreaking project solidifies Miami Armored®’s position at the forefront of security, connectivity, and luxury, ensuring that clients experience uninterrupted, high-speed internet while on the move.

Starlink: The Ultimate Connectivity Solution

Starlink is an advanced internet system designed to deliver ultra-fast connectivity in virtually any environment. Its network of advanced low-Earth orbit satellites ensures reduced latency and enhanced speed, making it a superior choice for those requiring constant communication. Unlike traditional satellite services, Starlink is engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, sleet, high winds, and even snow, thanks to its built-in heating capabilities that automatically melt ice accumulation. This durability makes it an ideal addition to Miami Armored®’s vehicles, reinforcing their commitment to uncompromised performance in any scenario.

At Miami Armored®, the fusion of security and technology is paramount. Their Cadillac Escalade ”Chairman” limousine is designed to offer elite ballistic protection without compromising on comfort or style. The vehicle features advanced armoring materials that provide multi-layered ballistic resistance, safeguarding passengers against high-caliber threats. Reinforced bulletproof glass, armored doors, and blast-resistant undercarriage protection ensure maximum security in high-risk environments.

‘’The Cadillac Escalade alone is one of the most recognizable luxury vehicles in the industry. Transforming this vehicle into a high-end limousine with endless comfort options and then adding Starlink in the mix is changing the game completely and is truly one of a kind. Nobody else is doing this.’’

Philip Daskal, President at Miami Armored®

A New Standard in Armored Luxury

Miami Armored® follows the newest armoring methods, ensuring they provide the best quality with detailed craftsmanship. The armored Cadillac Escalade ”Chairman” limousine is a combination of both luxury and elegant design. Lined entirely with leather accents, the individual seats offer extensive comfort that is fully reclinable. The bold cabin also comes equipped with a large TV screen embedded with premium audio and touchscreen interfaces to control interior adjustments.

The vehicle is armored to a BR6 level, which can withstand two hand grenades detonating below the floor simultaneously. The vehicle’s perimeter is secured 360 degrees with ballistic steel that creates an encapsulated realm of safety. This armored limousine also comes equipped with runflat systems in the tires, enabling continuous vehicle operation, even with fully punctured tires. The windows and windshield are also replaced with multi-layered ballistic glass, creating an entirely bulletproof shelter. Additional customization options such as strobe lights, night vision optics, and other tactical features can be added. 

The incredible combination of Miami Armored®’s luxury vehicles with robust protection and Starlink’s world-class technology make a union of pure advancement. This union is an integral creation for future projects and an improvement for luxury vehicles everywhere. Miami Armored® is committed to constant progression and making waves in the automotive industry. 

With this latest achievement, Miami Armored® reinforces its mission to deliver world-class armored vehicles that anticipate the needs of a modern, connected world.

Full GM Lineup Now Upgraded and Armored to 2025 Standards!

Miami Armored® has officially announced the successful upgrade and armoring of its entire General Motors (GM) lineup to the latest 2025 models. This comprehensive update includes the Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon Denali, and Cadillac Escalade—each armored with complete BR6-level certifications. 

These 2025 GM models are capable of withstanding high-powered rifle fire and explosive threats, including the detonation of two hand grenades beneath the vehicle floor. Additional enhancements include 360-degree armored steel protection, multi-layer ballistic glass, reinforced suspension systems, and runflat systems. Each model can also be outfitted with a range of optional tactical upgrades such as strobe lights, sirens, night vision systems, and secure communications.

With these advancements, Miami Armored® reaffirms its leadership in the armored vehicle sector—delivering high-performance, mission-ready solutions that protect what matters most, when it matters the most. 

NP Aerospace Teams with Logistik Unicorp to Deliver the UK’s Next Generation Integrated Soldier System

Tuesday, May 27th, 2025

NP Aerospace, the global armour manufacturer and vehicle integrator, with operations in UK and Canada, has teamed with the leading international uniform provider, headquartered in Canada,

Logistik Unicorp – bringing together the strengths of both companies. By combining NP’s renowned personal protection expertise, including hard and soft armour technologies, with Logistik Unicorp’s military apparel expertise, the team is able to offer next generation, integrated soldier systems solutions to a variety of international customers and together, bid into numerous upcoming programmes.

Initially, the partnership will focus on defence, security, and police forces within the UK but beyond that, will be positioned to export the joint capabilities. The partnership is already proven, with

Logistik Unicorp, supported by NP Aerospace, having recently been awarded a major contract to supply the Canadian Army’s (CA) light forces Dismounted Infantry Capability Enhancement (DICE) programme with 3,000 kits of advanced protective and load carriage equipment. This contract includes the provision of ballistic armour layers, tactical vests, pack systems and associated pouches, as well as options for additional systems and services.

With some significant UK programmes upcoming, including the MoD’s VIRTUS Torso Sub-System Re-let, the partnership delivers a wide range of potential benefits to the customers. Combining two globally trusted and proven brands, this arrangement unites NP Aerospace’s longstanding reputation as the UK’ leading hard armour supplier with Logistik Unicorp’s military apparel and personal equipment expertise – delivering compliant, validated and trusted solutions. Logistik’s major contracts in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand further reinforce a track record of reliability and operational excellence. Leveraging NP’s established UK supply chain, the partnership is committed to bolstering the UK’s defence manufacturing sector by creating high-skilled jobs, investing in local R&D, and strengthening the national supply chain.

Karine Bibeau, Vice-President, Client Experience at Logistik Unicorp, emphasized the strategic alignment of the two companies’ expertise: “This partnership brings together two highly complementary capabilities—combat-proven armour technology and world-class military apparel and equipment systems—into a unified offering that meets the evolving needs of today’s defence forces. It reflects our shared commitment to delivering fully integrated, user-centric solutions that enhance operational effectiveness and protect those who serve.”

James Kempston, NP Aerospace CEO, commented: “we’re delighted to be able to announce this partnership today, that combines the proven strengths of both companies at a time when there are numerous emerging opportunities in this capability space. We are comfortable that what we’re offering, together, is unmatched in terms of proven and compliant capability, delivering advanced protection, usability, comfort and durability to those who need it most. At the same time, we’re able to offer best-value with our integrated approach of lean manufacturing, best-in-class procurement, and comprehensive lifecycle management underpinning a cost-effective solution for the customer.”

He added: “Our deep understanding of UK MoD processes, combined with Logistik Unicorp’s proven performance in multi-year, large-scale military contracts, will enable a smooth and secure transition for any customer, including the UK’s VIRTUS re-let programme, and others.”

OKSI Introduces Odyssey GPS-Denied Module

Tuesday, May 27th, 2025

The Odyssey GPS-Denied Module with #IntelligenceByOKSI — Bolt-on Visual Navigation for UAS.

The Odyssey module is a rapidly deployable and robust bolt-on GPS-denied navigation module. It provides drift-free navigation with absolute position updates to flight controllers enabling flights in heavily jammed EW environments. By leveraging a custom-trained AI feature matcher and advanced data fusion algorithms, Odyssey excels in diverse conditions—including seasonal changes, battlefield scarring, urban destruction and zero-illumination scenarios. It is fully passive—emitting no RF or laser signals—ensuring low observability and quick integration into virtually any platform.

The Odyssey was designed in partnership with Nokturnal AI, who delivers purpose-built autonomous platforms that thrive in EW environments with heavy jamming. Together we bring operators the tactical advantage they need on the modern-day battlefield that keeps them in the loop and out of danger.

Learn more about the Odyssey Module: www.nokturnal.ai/platform/odyssey

Learn more about GPS-denied Navigation: oksi.ai/omninav-gps-denied-navigation

Lets talk integration: solutions@oksi.ai

CMP Unveils Updated Logo Design

Sunday, May 25th, 2025

The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) is excited to announce a rebranding of its logo – moving from the classic eagle seal to a new, simpler style.

“We believe it is time for new logo that represents the more modern current state of the CMP – something that, like the revision of our programs, is more contemporary,” said CMP Board Chair and CEO, Jerry O’Keefe. “We couldn’t be more proud of CMP’s deep history and legacy which stretches back over 120 years and the classic eagle seal will always represent and be part of that.   CMP’s brand in the firearms and marksmanship competition space is growing so it is the right time for our logo and the brand it represents to evolve as well.”

The new CMP logo takes on a more minimalistic design, with a bolded three-letter emblem and a single reticle within the “C” paying homage to marksmanship.

The Civilian Marksmanship Program’s lineage began in 1903 as the National Board for the Promotion of Rifle Practice under President Theodore Roosevelt and the Department of War. The program oversaw the administration of marksmanship for citizens in the United States until 1996 when it transformed into the CMP as we know it today – a private organization with the mission to provide firearms safety, education and training for all, especially the youth community.


A “National Board for the Promotion of Rifle Practice” pinback button displaying a version of the eagle seal logo. Photo: National Museum of American History

The CMP’s accompanying insignia, characterized by its eagle, stars and arrows, was derived from the seal of the Department of Defense and can be traced back to the 1960s.  The seal has undergone minor changes over the years but will now stand as a historical reference to the CMP and its previous identities rather than its primary brand model.  CEO O’Keefe further states, “it is the right time for the CMP to transition from the legacy seal which reflects CMP’s storied history as part of the Government to a new logo that better represents the 21st century CMP as a strong and thriving private organization.

The new CMP logo takes on a more forward-looking and minimalistic design to echo modern trends, mark the company’s singular identity all while acknowledging  CMP’s strong brand awareness.   The bolded three-letter emblem embodies the CMP name and is in lockstep with its ideologies: Strong, Bold, Proud, Stable, Timeless. A reticle traced within the “C” of the logo, a crosshair pattern often seen within firearm sights, directly associates the logo with CMP’s continuing mission – etching a clear focus on marksmanship.

The revised logo will now be the standard symbol on all CMP merchandise, correspondences and publications, while the classic eagle seal will be reserved only for official CMP letterhead and other special projects.


The CMP’s previous eagle seal will still be present in certain correspondences alongside the updated logo.

“We’re grateful for the position we’re afforded,” O’Keefe said. “That is, an audience of individuals who have supported the CMP for generations – who are able to recognize all that we stand for from our company acronym alone.”

“The eagle seal will always be part of the CMP’s legacy and will remain a profound icon for America’s marksmanship history,” he went on. “And we hope this new logo will make a similar impact as it becomes synonymous with exceptional firearm training, responsible ownership and competition excellence.”

More About the CMP:

The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) is a federally-chartered 501(c)(3) corporation that places its highest priority on firearms safety and marksmanship activities, with a focus on youth. CMP’s programs encourage personal growth and build life skills, with such initiatives as its junior training and competition programs, Affiliated Club program and scholarships providing support to citizens of all backgrounds across the nation. Learn more about the CMP at thecmp.org.

Cooperation in Spain: Rheinmetall and Indra Announce a Strategic Agreement on Armoured Vehicles

Friday, May 23rd, 2025

Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH, a subsidiary of Rheinmetall AG, and Indra have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a strategic cooperation in the field of armoured vehicles projects of the Spanish Armed Forces.

This further enhances the already strong alliance of Indra with Rheinmetall in other fields like the recently announced agreement with Rhein¬metall Electronics on the Leopard 2E Combat System. 

Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading suppliers of armored tracked and wheeled vehicles and is the original designer of – among other vehicles – the Keiler NG Armored Breaching Vehicle. Also in the Leopard 2A4 tank Rheinmetall has significant technological shares. Additionally, Rheinmetall has significant know-how and experience in areas such as armored vehicles design, manufacture and support, with REM S.A.U., Rheinmetall already has a strong and important presence in Spain.

Indra is a leading Spanish Company in Defence Systems and the designer of the thermal cameras and the manufacturer of the Leopard 2E combat system in Spain under license from Rheinmetall Electronics, and is the supplier of the Lince BMS currently in service in Leopard 2 in Spain. Indra is also the designer of the Maestre Mission System currently contracted in the Spanish Army VCR 8×8 and is the main design authority for the Spanish BMS. Indra has significant experience in Leopard 2 electronics systems and has solutions for simulation for Leopard 2E and other vehicles.

Indra is making significant investment in capabilities for integration and production or transformation of armored vehicles in Spain including specific facilities for this purpose.

Eduardo Veen Martinez, Managing Director of Rheinmetall Landsysteme: “With this MoU, Indra and Rheinmetall, two leading European companies in the field of defence technology, start a strong alliance to support the efforts of the Spanish Armed Forces to modernize their fleet of combat vehicles.”

Ángel Escribano, Chairman of Indra Group, stated: “The agreement with Rheinmetall represents a significant step forward in Indra’s strategy of forming alliances and partnerships to strengthen its military vehicle manufacturing and digitalization capabilities in Spain’ and he added, ‘This is an example of what Europeans can achieve when working together.”