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Hohenstein Supports Global Textile Scheme Initiative for Structured Data Exchange

Friday, April 11th, 2025

Strategic partnership for improved transparency in the textile industry

BOENNIGHEIM, Germany (April 9, 2025) – Global testing and research laboratory Hohenstein has acquired shares in Global Textile Scheme GmbH (GTS). The GTS initiative aims to create an international standard for handling structured product data in the textile and apparel industry. Hohenstein will support GTS in harmonizing and automating data exchange along the supply chain.

As an internationally recognized knowledge partner, Hohenstein is expanding its expertise in data standardization and transparency in the textile sector. “The demand for reliable, structured and machine-readable data along the textile value chain is rising rapidly,” explains Dr. Stefan Droste, CEO of Hohenstein. “We want to support our customers and are committed to close collaboration with GTS.”

Additionally, Hohenstein will leverage its global network to promote the adoption of the GTS standard worldwide. The goal is to facilitate access to standardized data structures for companies—a key requirement for recycling, circularity and more sustainable production. These topics are also increasingly important for new regulatory requirements, such as the Digital Product Passport.

“The Global Textile Scheme initiative offers a pragmatic solution for efficiently managing complex data without an excessive increase of manual processes,” emphasizes Dr. Stefan Droste. “Data is becoming the backbone of the circular economy, and we are excited to actively shape this development with GTS.”

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The Department of Defense Warrior Games Celebrates 15th Anniversary and 100 Days Out with a Return to Colorado Springs

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

Colorado Springs, Colorado – April 9, 2025 – The Department of Defense (DoD) is excited to announce that the Warrior Games are returning to Colorado Springs, Colorado, for the first time since 2018 for the 15th anniversary. This milestone year will showcase the strength, resilience, and unity of our wounded, ill, and injured service members representing five different teams on their road to healing and rehabilitation together. The 2025 DoD Warrior Games will take place July 18-26, 2025 at the main venue of Colorado College.

“As a community deeply rooted in military service and support for our nation’s heroes, Colorado Springs is once again honored to welcome the Warrior Games, a celebration of resilience, determination, and the unwavering spirit of our nation’s wounded and injured service members and veterans,” said Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade. “As Olympic City USA, we deeply value the power of sport to inspire, heal, and unite. To all the athletes, your courage and perseverance embody the very best of our country, and we are proud to stand with you and cheer you on.”

The DoD Warrior Games, a celebration and healing journey for wounded, ill, and injured service members alongside their family and friends, showcase the incredible power of the human spirit and the unwavering commitment of our military community. Five teams of participants will be representing all military services: U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy/Coast Guard, Air Force/Space Force, and the U.S. Special Operations Command. The participants will be competing in 11 different adaptive sports including Archery, Cycling, Field, Indoor Rowing, Powerlifting, Precision Air

Sports, Sitting Volleyball, Swimming, Track, Wheelchair Basketball, and Wheelchair Rugby.

“We love this event and everything it stands for, but nothing can compare to the impact this event has on the service members, their family and friends, and the fans,” said Mr. David Paschal, Director of the DoD Warrior Games. “This event is truly life-changing, and it is a tremendous honor for our team to have built this event into what it is today after 15 years and to have supported and encouraged thousands of service members on their road to healing and rehabilitation.”

The public are invited to join the celebration in the beautiful community of Colorado Springs this summer at the event’s main venue of Colorado College to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the DoD Warrior Games and support the service members who have or are serving our country.

“We are thrilled to be part of the Department of Defense Warrior Games at Colorado College this July,” said Lesley Irvine, Vice President and Director of Athletics at Colorado College. “This event is a celebration of resilience, determination, and the indomitable spirit of our nation’s service members and veterans. We look forward to welcoming these incredible athletes to our campus and providing a world-class experience for them, their families, and the community.”

More information about the Games, including the event schedule, volunteer opportunities, and ticketing information, will be available soon HERE.

Posted in Press Release, Veterans | Comments Off on The Department of Defense Warrior Games Celebrates 15th Anniversary and 100 Days Out with a Return to Colorado Springs

Diamondback Firearms Appoints Dave Larson as New Director of Marketing

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

Cocoa, FL – Diamondback Firearms, a leading American firearms manufacturer, today announced the appointment of Dave Larson as Director of Marketing, effective immediately. Larson will report directly to Chief Executive Officer Faith Denman and is responsible for overseeing all marketing initiatives across the company’s product lines.

In his new role, Larson will lead the strategic direction of Diamondback Firearms’ comprehensive marketing efforts, including brand development, product launches, media buying, advertising campaigns, trade show representation, and digital presence. He will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure consistent brand messaging and drive market growth for the company’s diverse portfolio of firearms and accessories.

Larson brings extensive industry experience to Diamondback Firearms, most recently serving in a senior marketing position at Maxim Defense, where he successfully led global brand development initiatives and significantly expanded market presence. His demonstrated expertise in strategic positioning and consumer engagement within the firearms industry will be invaluable as Diamondback continues to strengthen its market position.

“Dave’s proven track record in building strong brands and driving growth makes him the ideal leader for our marketing efforts,” said Faith Denman, CEO of Diamondback Firearms. “His industry knowledge and innovative approach to marketing will help us continue to connect with our customers while expanding our reach in both domestic and international markets.”

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Strengthening the Backbone of Protective Textiles: Insights from Darinka Radic, Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

ZRENJANIN, SERBIA (09.04.2025)

Mehler Protective System d.o.o., part of the Mehler Protection brand within the Mehler Systems Group, is the production site located in Zrenjanin, Serbia. Specialising in textiles, this facility focuses on high-quality protective solutions for military, police, and security forces worldwide. As one of three strategic locations within the Mehler Protection brand—alongside Fulda and Königslutter—Mehler Protection Zrenjanin plays a critical role in the Group’s vertically integrated production network.

In a recent interview with Darinka Radic, Managing Director Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, we explored the company’s growth, its role within the Mehler Systems Group, and how it continues to meet the evolving demands of the protective textiles industry.

Q: Mehler Protection Zrenjanin has experienced significant growth over the years. What key milestones have defined this journey, and what drove your recent expansion?

A: Over the years, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin has grown significantly. A major milestone was the opening of our new 6,200 m² production hall in 2024, which brought our total workspace to 9,900 m² and land area to 49,000 m². This modern expansion includes cutting-edge production lines, a showroom, training zones, and a dedicated technology hub. It was driven by increasing global demand and our ambition to internalise more production processes. The expansion enables us to house advanced machinery, improve workflows, and scale our output efficiently—positioning us as a high-capacity production hub for Mehler Systems.

Q: How does this growth translate into workforce development and community impact?

A: We’ve grown from 206 employees in 2019 to 760 by early 2025. Workforce development is key to our success. We collaborate with local textile schools, support dual education programs, and have revived industrial seamstress training. Our on-site training center ensures new hires are well-prepared and continuously upskilled. This not only sustains our operations but also strengthens the local economy and provides long-term career opportunities.

Q: What challenges are currently shaping the protective textile industry, and how are you addressing them?

A: The industry is evolving rapidly. There’s growing demand for advanced multifunctional textiles, rising material costs, and increasing pressure to meet sustainability standards. At Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, we’re addressing these challenges by expanding internal capabilities, investing in alternative materials, and improving energy efficiency. By staying agile and focused on innovation, we continue to meet evolving market demands.

Q: Your current production capacity stands at approximately 3,000,000 minutes per month. How do you maintain high output while ensuring quality?

A: We’ve implemented a robust production planning system, advanced tracking technologies, and continuous interdepartmental collaboration. These tools help us manage resources effectively, monitor workflows in real time, and uphold the highest quality standards throughout production.

Q: What role does automation play in your operations?

A: Automation has been transformative. It enhances speed, accuracy, and consistency while reducing manual steps and human error. This has allowed us to increase efficiency and flexibility across production, enabling us to better respond to customer needs and scale output without compromising quality.

Q: How is innovation embedded in your production environment?

A: We actively invest in next-generation manufacturing techniques and textile innovations. Our adoption of digital monitoring systems enables us to optimise production processes, improve efficiency, and stay ahead of market trends. Innovation is a constant focus—it’s how we future-proof our operations and continue delivering top-tier protective solutions.

Q: What initiatives have you implemented to enhance sustainability?

A: Sustainability is central to our strategy. We’ve introduced energy-saving practices, waste reduction programs, and responsible sourcing of materials. Notably, we installed a solar power plant projected to generate over 200,000 kWh annually. These initiatives reduce our environmental footprint and align our operations with global sustainability standards.

Q: How does Mehler Protection Zrenjanin align with Mehler Systems’ overall strategy?

A: We are a cornerstone of Mehler Systems’ internal production strategy. Our vertically integrated and automation-driven facility supports the Group’s mission to maintain strict quality control, reduce dependency on external suppliers, and respond quickly to evolving customer requirements. Our contribution ensures delivery reliability and product excellence across the Group.

Q: What are your key priorities for the future?

A: Our focus is on scaling production, advancing automation, and fostering continuous workforce development. We aim to strengthen operational excellence and innovation while remaining committed to sustainable growth. Mehler Protection Zrenjanin is built to adapt, and we’re ready for what comes next.

About Mehler Protection Zrenjanin:

Mehler Protection Zrenjanin (officially Mehler Protective System d.o.o.) is the Serbian production facility of the Mehler Protection brand, operating under the Mehler Systems Group. The site specialises in the manufacturing of high-performance protective textiles for military, law enforcement, and security forces worldwide.

As one of three strategic Mehler Protection locations—alongside Fulda and Königslutter—it plays a key role in the Group’s vertically integrated production strategy. With ongoing investments in automation, facility expansion, and production capacity, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin is positioned as a reliable and scalable hub for advanced textile manufacturing within the defence and security sector.

About Darinka Radic:

Darinka Radic is the Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, a role she has held since 2019. She began her career at Mehler Protection in 2009, leading logistics and customs operations, and played a key role in streamlining procedures and boosting efficiency. With previous experience managing a family business in transport, she brought strong leadership and decision-making skills into the corporate world. Under her guidance, the company has experienced continuous growth, marked by expanded facilities, increased production capacity, and strengthened operational performance.

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Representatives Krishnamoorthi, Auchincloss Request Investigation Into Possible Sanctions Violations By Yantai Iray Technology Co

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

March 31, 2025, WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the CCP and Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) sent a letter to Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, requesting both departments investigate whether Yantai iRay Technology Co., Ltd. (“iRay”), a company in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) sanctioned by the Treasury Department, may be committingsanctions violations via a network of subsidiaries and directly related companies in the United States.

Among these subsidiaries is iRayUSA, who after iRay’s sanctioning in May 2024 for supplying Russia-based end users with controlled, dual-use technology claimed to its U.S. distributors that “iRayUSA’s manufacturing partner is a separate entity” from iRay. However, government filings along with other publicly available information strongly suggest that iRayUSA’s contention is false and that it, along with InfiRay Outdoor, Visir Inc. (brand name RIX Optics), and Inlumen Technologies (brand name Nocpix) may be violating U.S. sanctions by continuing to sell and distribute iRay products in the United States.

Reps. Krishnamoorthi and Auchincloss write in the letter, “Given their subsidiary or other close relationship with iRay, InfiRay Outdoor, iRayUSA, Visir Inc., and Inlumen Technologies appear to potentially be in violation of U.S. sanctions. Your agencies should also consider whether the operations of these entities pose a national security risk to the United States given the dual-use nature of their products and the sensitive data obtained through them. Thermal technology is a critical enabler of lethality and capability on the modern battlefield, and PLA access to U.S. thermal sensor data could allow it to refine its own capabilities while degrading U.S. leadership in this field.”

The Treasury Department imposed sanctions on iRay on May 1, 2024 for operating in the technology sector of the Russian Federation, including by supplying Russia-based end users with items like telescopic thermal sights and military thermal imagers controlled by the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security Common High Priority List.

“It is highly concerning that iRay, a company sanctioned for supporting Russia’s brutal and illegal invasion of Ukraine, appears to still be peddling its products in the United States through a shell game of U.S.-based subsidiaries,” said Ranking Member Krishnamoorthi. “In addition, iRay’s potential access to data from American users of its advanced targeting technologies could allow China’s military to dominate these capabilities at U.S. expense. We urge the Treasury and Commerce Departments to investigate this activity and appropriate enforcement actions.”

“Federal authorities must enforce sanctions against Chinese & Russian military cooperation,”said Congressman Auchincloss. “Appeasement of one is weakness to another.”

The members request the Treasury Department and Commerce Department provide them with a briefing on any information available to the departments regarding iRay and its subsidiaries by no later than April 11, 2025.

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Rotapoint SANCHO Mount, Achieve True Heads-Up Shooting

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

In the quest for a true “heads-up” shooting position with Night Observation Devices (NODs), mounts fall short. Traditional risers only adjust the Y-axis (height) of your red dot, leaving the X-axis (lateral alignment) untouched. This forces you to turn your head to align with the optic, slowing your target acquisition, straining your neck, and breaking your natural point of aim. We saw the problem—and we fixed it.

Introducing the SANCHO™ Mount, the first red dot riser designed to adjust the X-axis for a faster, more comfortable, and natural alignment with or without NODs. Engineered for shooters who demand speed and precision in all situations, the SANCHO Mount ensures your red dot aligns easily with your natural point of aim, reducing neck strain and letting you focus on the target, reticle, and trigger.

Why SANCHO Changes the Game

Unlike other mounts on the market, the SANCHO Mount optimizes lateral and vertical placement to complement your natural point of aim. By fine-tuning the X-axis, SANCHO positions your red dot exactly where your eyes naturally look when using NODs—no more awkward head-turning or compromised cheek weld. Whether you’re conducting night operations, hunting in low-light conditions, or training with night vision, the SANCHO Mount delivers speed and comfort.

Key Features

X-Axis Offset: Adjusts the lateral position of your red dot up to align with your natural head position, ensuring a true heads-up posture with NODs.

Optimized for Night Vision: Designed specifically for use with NODs, providing a comfortable sight picture without excessive neck dip or rotation. Additionally, it aids with target acquisition while wearing a protective mask.

Durable Construction: Machined from 7075-T651 aluminum with a hard coat-anodized finish, built to withstand the toughest conditions.

Proudly Made in the USA.

Universal Compatibility: Fits all Picatinny rails and red dot mounts.

Parallel Zero: if you can adjust your point of aim at various distances, you’ll learn how to aim just slightly laterally with consistent and predictable point of impact.

Light weight: Under 3 ounces, with rigid I-beam design and premium material.

Reversible for left and right hand use. If you shoot with your non-dominant hand, simply cant the rifle. Uses minimal upper receiver space while providing full mounting surface for EOTech XPS, Aimpoint Pro, etc.

Benefits:

Faster Target Acquisition: Align your red dot with your natural point of aim for quicker, more instinctive aiming, particularly in low-light scenarios.

Reduced Neck Strain: Minimize head-turning and maintain a comfortable posture, even during extended operations with NODs.

Enhanced Comfort: Achieve a consistent cheek weld and heads-up position, improving situational awareness, with reduced fatigue.

Tactical Advantage: Stay focused on your surroundings with a sight picture that works with your body’s natural alignment.

Versatility: Ideal for all shooters, but particularly military, law enforcement, hunters, and tactical enthusiasts using night vision setups. Also assists greatly with gas mask and face shield use.

rotapoint.com/products/sancho

Posted in Optics, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 4 Comments »

GA-ASI Inks Collaboration Deal With South Korea’s Hanwha

Wednesday, April 9th, 2025

The Companies Will Pursue Global UAS Programs

SAN DIEGO – 08 April 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace have agreed to collaborate on the development and production of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for the global defense market. The joint effort follows the successful completion of a major flight demonstration in 2024 when the two companies launched a GA-ASI MQ-1C Gray Eagle® STOL (GE STOL) UAS from the South Korean Navy’s amphibious landing ship ROKS Dokdo (LPH-6111) as it was underway at sea off the coast of Pohang, South Korea.

The demonstration illustrated the ability of the GE STOL to safely operate on many types of aircraft-capable ships, which opens myriad new ways for the U.S. and its allies to use this UAS to support multi-domain operations. It also paved the way for GA-ASI and Hanwha to sign this new agreement to jointly invest in and pursue new UAS business opportunities.

“We’re excited to extend and deepen our business relationship with Hanwha,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue, who supervised the November 12, 2024, at-sea demonstration. “Our test flight with Gray Eagle STOL was well-received by the Republic of Korea Navy, and we know Hanwha is ready to invest to grow a UAS business with GA-ASI both in Korea and the U.S.”

Gray Eagle STOL—which stands for short takeoff and landing—is the only medium-altitude, long-endurance aircraft of its kind with the ability to operate without a catapult or arresting gear from fight deck-equipped warships such as amphibious ships and aircraft carriers. It additionally enables true runway independence by operating from unimproved fields and roads, beaches, parking lots, etc.

Hanwha Aerospace plans to invest more than 300 billion KRW (US $203.5M) in the development and production facilities for GE STOL and UAS engines, expand research and development activities, and provide production infrastructure in both South Korea and with GA-ASI in the U.S. This is in addition to GA-ASI’s past and ongoing investment in UAS STOL development. Hanwha also plans to create jobs by securing talent in related fields and to foster the domestic (Korean) UAS industry ecosystem by discovering domestic parts and material partner companies. GA-ASI expects the endeavor to create nearly 10,000 jobs based upon the expected sales and support over the next 10 years, and at least 500 jobs in the U.S.

“Hanwha Aerospace views unmanned systems as a strategic pillar for the future of defense. Through our collaboration with GA-ASI, we aim to strengthen sovereign defense capabilities, expand Korea’s presence in the global UAS market, and contribute to a more robust ROK-U.S. alliance, said Dong Kwan Kim, Vice Chairman of Hanwha Group.

Previously known as Mojave, Gray Eagle STOL leverages extensive commonality with the well-proven, in-production Gray Eagle 25M airframe to offer a highly capable new aircraft at greatly reduced cost and technical risk compared to a clean-sheet design. Gray Eagle STOL has recorded a number of first-of-their-kind aviation milestones, including the flight from the Dokdo, launch and recovery aboard the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales (09), live-fire testing at Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz., and several others. Gray Eagle STOL offers international militaries a unique platform: a full-featured medium-altitude, long-endurance UAS with a significant battlefield payload that can take off in short distances from ships, unimproved surfaces, or other highly combat-relevant locations.

Posted in Aviation, Industry, International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Inks Collaboration Deal With South Korea’s Hanwha

Darley Partners with National Fallen Firefighters Association for the 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Competition

Wednesday, April 9th, 2025

Darley Partners with National Fallen Firefighters Association for the 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Competition

Itasca, IL, April 9, 2025 – Darley, in partnership with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), is proud to announce the launch of the 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Contest –Understanding the “Why” Behind Mental Health in the Fire Service. Now in its fourth year, this initiative challenges firefighters nationwide to explore the critical yet often overlooked mental health issues within their ranks.

The competition seeks to uncover the deeper reasons behind firefighters’ persistent mental health challenges, beyond the daily high-stakes stress of their lifesaving roles. “Understanding the ‘why’ behind the mental health crisis is crucial,” said Garry Briese, a member of the Darley Board of Directors. “This competition provides a unique platform for firefighters to voice their experiences and insights, fostering a broader understanding and paving the way for effective solutions.”

With a focus on introspection and analysis, participants are encouraged to examine various factors contributing to mental health issues, including job stress, firehouse culture, and broader societal impacts that uniquely affect firefighters. The aim is to identify why these challenges not only exist but continue to escalate, especially in the context of rising rates of PTSD, divorce, and suicide within the fire service community.

How to Participate:

Eligibility: Open to active and retired firefighters, both career and volunteer

Essay Requirements: Submit a three- to four-page essay in PDF format, using 12-point Times New Roman font, double-spaced.

Submission Period: March 24 – June 2.

“We often hear firefighters say, ‘I’m OK,’ masking the true emotional toll of their duties,” said Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer of the NFFF. “This competition is a call to action for firefighters to express themselves openly and contribute to a crucial dialogue that can lead to real and lasting change.”

Submissions will be peer-reviewed by a panel of fire service and mental health experts, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the insights presented.

For more details on the competition and submission guidelines, please visit darley.com/essay-contest.

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