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Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Saturday, March 29th, 2025

NAPLES, Fla. – March 24, 2025 – Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing, a leading premium firearms retailer, is proud to announce its 40th anniversary. Over its four decades in business, Cole Fine Guns has established and upheld a strong reputation for providing top-quality firearms and exceptional customer service.

Rich Cole, founder of Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing, grew up knowing he wanted to be a gunsmith. After working for Beretta USA and apprenticing in Gardone Val Trompia, Italy, Cole took his years of expertise and knowledge and established Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing in 1985. Since then, he has developed a team of experienced technicians devoted to the highest quality custom shotguns. Cole Fine Guns now has three locations in Naples, Fla., Harpswell, Maine and San Antonio, Texas, each dedicated to exceptional technical service and customer service.

“We are so excited to celebrate 40 years of business. This milestone is truly a testament to the relationships we’ve built with our customers over the years and their trust in our dedication to quality and craftsmanship” said Rich Cole, Owner of Cole Gunsmithing. “It has always been our mission to provide top-quality firearms and customer service, which has been made possible by our team of highly skilled gunsmiths. We look forward to continuing the tradition of excellence in the firearms industry.”

The family-owned company takes pride in their legacy of providing European shotguns and accessories to discerning enthusiasts. Cole’s collection boasts many iconic brands, including Beretta, Perazzi, Rizzini, Zoli, Blaser, Syren, Fabarm, Benelli, Caesar Guerini and TSK. Not only a certified Beretta service and warranty center, but Cole is the #1 Beretta Premium Shotgun Dealer worldwide. As a qualified provider, Cole is certified to sell and work with a long list of premium brands and offers a wide array of exclusive firearms.

Committed to servicing what they sell, Cole Fine Guns is a full-service dealer service center and continues to support customers long after assisting them in finding the perfect firearm. Cole Gunsmithing teams take a thorough, personalized approach to help customers select the best fit. Its highly experienced team of factory authorized gunsmiths carefully evaluate every individual’s needs, preferences and goals to identify the ideal firearm for them. The process is designed with the simple objective of achieving the best performance and experience for shooters. This customer service, along with a team of gunsmiths with more than 100 years of combined shotgun expertise, sets Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing’s craftsmanship apart from other providers.

For more information about the premium firearms offered by Cole Fine Guns, visit www.colefineguns.com or contact the sales team at (800) 650-2653.

Posted in Firearms, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Digitisation: Rheinmetall Ignites the Future of Autonomous Mobility for the Future Battlefield with New Centres of Excellence

Friday, March 28th, 2025

Rheinmetall is revolutionising battlefield autonomous mobility with a bold new investment in next-generation technology. As part of its mission to lead the digitalisation of modern warfare, the company is accelerating the rollout of the PATH Autonomous Kit – the innovative technology that dominated the 2024 European Land Robotics (ELROB) convoy competition.

This investment will supercharge the deployment of next-generation autonomous mobility systems, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the battlefield. The PATH Autonomous Kit delivers scalable, intelligent, and highly adaptable autonomy across a wide range of platforms – from uncrewed ground vehicles to logistics convoys, capable of navigating the toughest terrains and most demanding environments. With this initiative, Rheinmetall cements its position as the undisputed leader in land autonomy, addressing the growing demands of military forces worldwide.

To spearhead this innovation, Rheinmetall is launching three brand-new Advanced Land Autonomy Centres of Excellence in Germany, the Nordics and the United Kingdom, while also expanding its current Canadian Autonomy Centre of Excellence. These pioneering hubs will serve as the beating heart of Rheinmetall’s autonomous revolution, providing advanced integration, testing, and national control over leading-edge autonomous solutions, with a sharp focus on the PATH Autonomous Kit.

“Autonomy isn’t just the future of defence – it’s the key to unlocking unprecedented speed, agility, and strategic advantage on the battlefield,” said Thomas Berge Nielsen, CEO of Rheinmetall’s Global Business. “By investing in the PATH Autonomous Kit and establishing our new Centres of Excellence, we’re bringing world-leading autonomous capabilities to the fight – ensuring Rheinmetall remains at the cutting edge of military innovation.”

The future of warfare is characterized by autonomy –and Rheinmetall is leading the charge.

Posted in Digitization, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Digitisation: Rheinmetall Ignites the Future of Autonomous Mobility for the Future Battlefield with New Centres of Excellence

FN Awarded Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Contract to Supply M240 and M249 Machine Gun Barrels

Friday, March 28th, 2025

(McLean, VA — March 28, 2025) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce that the company has been awarded a firm-fixed-price IDIQ contract, valued up to $39,643,953, to supply the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DoD) Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Land and Maritime with barrels for M240 and M249 machine guns.

“The contract to provide barrels for M240 and M249 machine guns is a testament to our partnership with the U.S. DoD, a partnership that dates to the early 1980s,” said Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America, LLC. “We’re incredibly honored to support the U.S. military with the highest-quality cold hammer-forged barrels. The durability and accuracy of FN barrels provides our servicemen and women with the most effective and highest performing products available.”

FN collaborates with and is a key partner of DLA Land and Maritime, a combat support agency within the U.S. DoD and one of the largest suppliers of spare parts that support land-based and maritime weapon systems. DLA Land and Maritime serves over 20,000 customers throughout all U.S. military branches, civil agencies and other DoD organizations.

The M240 general purpose machine gun, derived from the FN MAG 58, was adopted by the U.S. military in the late 1970s, and has been in continual service since being introduced. FN has created multiple variants of the M240, including the M240 coaxial, the M240B, M240L, M240D and M240H models. The FN® M249 has been a mainstay throughout the U.S. military since 1986 and is currently in service in more than 30 countries.

Throughout its history, FN has been one of the largest suppliers of small arms to the U.S. military and continues to develop innovative, future technology. In addition to the M240 and its variants, the company currently holds contracts for the FN® M249 lightweight machine gun; the FN® MK 46, MK 48, MK 17 and MK 20 SSR for USSOCOM, and various other contracts.

For more information about FN’s military product line or current U.S. military contracts, please visit www.fnamerica.com.

Posted in Army, Contracts, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 1 Comment »

Kopin Secures U.S. Army Funding to Develop See-Through Extended Reality (XR) Prototypes for Warfighters

Friday, March 28th, 2025

Off-the-visor XR prototypes designed to enhance battlefield situational awarenessWESTBOROUGH, Mass.– Kopin Corporation (NASDAQ: KOPN), a leading provider of application-specific optical systems and high-performance microdisplays for defense, training, enterprise, industrial, consumer and medical products, is proud to announce a new funding award from the U.S. Army, to develop and produce a cutting-edge see-through extended reality (XR) heads-up display (HUD). This innovative XR HUD module aims to deliver visually comfortable performance for use in applications that revolutionize battlefield situational awareness and operational impact.

Kopin’s see-through off-the-Visor (OTV) approach offers a brighter, more energy-efficient display light transmission while ensuring visual comfort, setting a new standard for soldier acceptance and operational superiority. Building on the lessons learned from existing augmented reality headsets, Kopin’s OTV prototypes address critical challenges such as light security, power consumption, eye strain and latency causing nausea.

The first wave of these advanced prototypes is ready to be demonstrated, showcasing not just immediate improvements but also clear upgrade paths for next-gen microdisplays like Kopin’s Color MicroLED, AI enabled NeuralDisplay™, and modular HUDs like DayVAS™ (Daytime Visual Augmentation System) and DarkWAVE™.

“Our off-the-visor approach not only resolves the challenges of current systems but also prioritizes human factors and sets a new standard for soldier-centric design”, said Nic Peterson, Director of Warfighter Vision. “It’s about giving warfighters the tactical advantage — keeping their eyes on the fight, rather than down on a screen. We’re excited to demonstrate our prototypes and work toward full integration of our XR HUD solutions with other companies who have body worn computers, networking, and power management components.”

The funding award underscores the U.S. Army’s dedication to harnessing cutting-edge technology to safeguard its troops against the evolving threats of modern warfare. Kopin’s see-through prototypes mark a substantial leap forward from earlier system designs, aiming to enhance situational awareness, streamline decision-making and most importantly save lives on the battlefield.

For more information, please visit Kopin’s website at www.kopin.com.

Posted in Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on Kopin Secures U.S. Army Funding to Develop See-Through Extended Reality (XR) Prototypes for Warfighters

GA-ASI Completes First Flight of Belgium’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian

Thursday, March 27th, 2025

SAN DIEGO – 25 March 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and the Belgian Ministry of Defence completed the first flight of a new MQ-9B SkyGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) that will be the first SkyGuardian delivered to Belgium as part of a four-aircraft purchase. The flight was based out of GA-ASI’s Desert Horizon Flight Operations Facility in El Mirage, California and took place on February 20, 2025.

First flight is part of a series of ground and flight tests conducted to validate the performance of the Belgian MQ-9B RPA. The objective of the flight was to prove controllability and safe landing of the aircraft. The flight was successful, and the program will move forward with further development flight tests.

“We’re excited to complete the first flight of SkyGuardian for Belgium,” said Chris Dusseault, vice president of MQ-9B in Europe. “Belgium joins the U.K.’s Royal Air Force and will become the second country to take delivery of our MQ-9B in Europe.”

MQ-9B is the world’s most advanced RPAS, delivering exceptionally long endurance and range—with auto takeoff and landing under pole-to-pole SATCOM-only control—and will be able to operate in unsegregated airspace using the GA-ASI-developed Detect and Avoid system. MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian® models, with multiple deliveries made to the U.K.’s Royal Air Force (Protector), as well as orders from Canada, Poland, the Japan Coast Guard, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Taiwan, India, and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. MQ-9B has also supported various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.

The Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Belgium also includes two Certifiable Ground Control Stations (CGCS).

For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.

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Vertx Goes Overt With Siege Bag Series Launch

Thursday, March 27th, 2025

Sometimes the mission demands more. Siege the Mission. Siege the Day. Siege Life.

CINCINNATI, Ohio (March 27, 2025) – Vertx, a leading manufacturer of cutting-edge tactical and everyday carry (EDC) bags and gear, is breaking new ground with the launch of the Siege Overt EDC bag series—designed for those who demand more from their gear. Known for crafting low-profile bags that allow you blend in with ease, Vertx now steps boldly into the overt carry market. The Siege series offers two robust pack sizes: a 25L backpack and a 15L sling. Available in Coyote, Wolf Grey, and It’s Black, these bags are ready to meet the demands of any mission.

“The Vertx customer knows our unmatched covert carry bags and slings,” said Erin Chrostowski, Product Line Manager at Vertx. “The Siege Series is something new our loyal customers have been craving for years. However, we didn’t just want to replicate what’s out there; we aimed to infuse it with Vertx DNA, crafting a top-tier overt bag. Our mission? To introduce Vertx to those who haven’t yet experienced our seamless adaptability, rugged durability, and everyday functionality. And for our current customers? This is the bag you’ve been waiting for.”

The Siege Series is equipped with the Vertx DNA their customers know and trust: light-colored interior that keeps gear visible in low-light environments, high-quality abrasion-resistant materials, mesh pocketing, hook-and-loop interior, and armor compatibility. But that’s just the beginning. The Siege backpack and sling come loaded with their own unique features:

Rapid-access EDC compartments to always keep your gear quickly accessible.

Expandable front pocket faced with tough 500D laser-cut MOLLE to increase your storage capacity without compromising durability.

Spacious main compartment with built-in admin storage and double-layered tech sleeves to keep everything organized and ready for deployment.

Available in three tactical colors: Coyote, Wolf Grey, and It’s Black – these packs are as versatile as they are reliable.

“Our goal when developing the Siege Series was to provide customers with something they haven’t been able to get from Vertx before – an overt pack option – which still provides the same quality our loyal supporters have come to expect thanks to the Vertx DNA,” added Anne Thurman, VP of Product Development at Vertx. “We’re proud of the way Siege is another example of Vertx’s continued industry leadership and innovation in the EDC space.”

Siege the mission and stay Ahead of What’s Next – shop now at www.vertx.com or find the nearest Vertx dealer to experience the difference firsthand.

Posted in Advertiser, Packs, Press Release | Comments Off on Vertx Goes Overt With Siege Bag Series Launch

Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets Launch New Websites

Thursday, March 27th, 2025

MONA, Utah – March 26, 2025 – Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets are proud to announce the launch of its new websites. Both sites have undergone significant upgrades to enhance functionality and improve user experiences, allowing customers to better access offerings from Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets.

“The team has worked relentlessly over the past few months to get these sites up and running,” said Sierra Bullets’ and Barnes Bullets’ VP of Marketing and Business Development Andrew Sparks. “To bring the consumer a site where they can find what they need, easily and in multiple ways, was our number one priority. On top of that improved user experience, we included load data, dealer locators and improved content – we just want the user to enjoy being part of our family.”

The new websites boast streamlined layouts and offer user-friendly navigation, providing visitors with easy access to all the tools and information they need in one place. Along with resources such as a load data and dealer locations, customers can effortlessly browse product details and view upgraded content. With these improvements, Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets deliver an exceptional online experience, demonstrating the brands’ commitment to quality in both its products and customer service.

To check out the new websites and learn more about the latest new products and offerings from Sierra and Barnes, visit www.sierrabullets.com and www.barnesbullets.com.

Posted in Ammo, Press Release | Comments Off on Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets Launch New Websites

DroneShield Launches UAS Incident Platform to Enhance Situational Awareness for Customers

Wednesday, March 26th, 2025

DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-drone solutions, is proud to announce the launch of its UAS Incident platform, a powerful new tool designed to provide DroneShield customers with comprehensive insights by sector into drone-related incidents worldwide.

The UAS Incident platform aggregates and analyses open-source data, offering real-time intelligence on drone activities, security breaches, and emerging drone threats. This unique platform enables customers to track, assess, and respond to drone-related risks more effectively by leveraging a continuously updated repository of incidents. It also enables clients to conduct their own analysis on emerging trends, specific to their safety and security risk profile.

“Our new UAS Incident platform is a game-changer for both our military and civilian customers alike,” said Oleg Vornik, CEO and Managing Director at DroneShield.

“With drone incidents on the rise globally, access to timely and relevant data is critical for organisations to enhance their security posture and stay ahead of potential drone threats. The UAS Incident platform helps to deliver exactly that.”

Image: DroneShield UAS Incidents Page strengthens situational awareness and supports informed decision-making in an increasingly complex airspace environment.

The UAS Incident platform is available to DroneShield customers through the Customer Portal, and complements the company’s suite of industry-leading counter-drone solutions. Through the platform, users can filter incidents by region, sector and impact

By integrating the latest intelligence on drone threats, the UAS Incident platform strengthens situational awareness and supports informed decision-making in an increasingly complex airspace environment.

DroneShield will be showcasing its UAS Incident platform at the Avalon Airshow (Stand 1K20), demonstrating its capabilities and how it empowers organisations with cutting-edge intelligence to combat drone threats. Attendees will have the opportunity to see the platform in action and learn more about its real-world applications.

Posted in Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on DroneShield Launches UAS Incident Platform to Enhance Situational Awareness for Customers