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Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

Galvion Awarded FBI Contract for Their Hellbender FE Helmet

Tuesday, June 10th, 2025

Galvion, a leading manufacturer in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, announces the successful award of a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) contract for their Galvion Hellbender™ Federal Edition (FE) helmet (previously identified as the Hellbender R7/TE). This 5-year, $10 Million indefinite- delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract represents a significant milestone in delivering Galvion’s advanced head systems to authorized buyers, which include Department of Justice agency components, including but not limited to FBI, DEA, and US Marshals.

Galvion’s Hellbender platform has been developed and refined over multiple years, with feedback from some of the world’s most demanding teams and is currently fielded across various international programs. The proprietary geometry of the Galvion Hellbender system maximizes comfort, fit and stability with a unique helmet profile and features the best-in-class APEX™ liner system. Advanced platform options include modular upgrades such as maxillofacial protection, integration of Galvion’s E.D.G™ power and data management system, as well as a suite of accessories, including helmet covers, strobes, task lights, and NVG mounts.

The winning Hellbender FE ballistic helmet model is wholly molded, assembled and built in Newport, Vermont, USA and meets the stringent requirements of the DEA and FBI Ballistic Testing Helmet Protocol 2024. Prioritizing backface deformation performance; the helmet offers protection against pistol caliber threats, environmental hazards and meets enhanced backface deformation limits. Featuring Galvion’s Universal Bonded Anchor System (UBAS), which was developed as part of the United States Marine Corps IHS program to eliminate bolt penetrations for seamless coverage and ballistic integrity. The helmet platform is available in hi-cut as well as a unique mid/full cut, features single-sized components and provides unmatched flexibility for integrating equipment. Configurable to meet rapidly evolving threat and operational needs, the Hellbender system has been specifically designed to support upgradeability, maintenance and refurbishment paths. Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, said: “Our team worked tirelessly to develop a solution to meet the FBI’s high ballistic performance protocols, and we are excited to see this work come to fruition with the award of this contract. Our head systems are renowned for delivering a unique combination of customized performance, thoughtful design and unparalleled comfort, and we are proud to be able to offer the FBI and wider agency network this latest Hellbender system. We have close to 100,000 of the Hellbender geometry in service around the world, and we are continually incorporating end- user feedback into the platform design to ensure that it can support the ever-evolving needs of our users.” He added: “This new Hellbender system makes a great addition to our rapidly expanding suite of solutions for the law enforcement user community. Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone for our team, and we look forward to offering our integrated system and customized solutions approach to the broader federal and law enforcement user communities.”

Draganfly Showcases Tactical Drone Innovation at Global Defense Summit in Latvia

Monday, June 9th, 2025

Tampa, Florida – June 5, 2025 – Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO; CSE: DPRO; FSE: 3U8), an award-winning drone solutions and systems developer, is pleased to announce its successful participation at the Global Drone Innovation and Defense Coalition Summit (Drone Coalition) – Summer 2025, held May 29 in Riga, Latvia.

Co-hosted by the Latvian and UK Ministries of Defense, the limited invite-only summit welcomed more than 1,500 participants from 28 countries across the government, defense, and drone technology sectors. The summit marked the formal expansion of the Drone Coalition from 17 to 20 member states and highlighted €4 billion in collective investment toward advancing coalition-aligned drone capabilities.

Draganfly was featured as a leading provider, prominently positioned, and showcased multiple systems from its interoperable family of tactical drone platforms, including The Commander 3XL, The APEX, and the modular Flex FPV.

Draganfly was the only provider demonstrating a fully modular and interchangeable FPV platform, and the only company offering multiple tactical deployment drone systems with field-proven validation.

“We were honored to have participated in a summit that is shaping the future of allied drone strategy and deployment,” said Cameron Chell, President and CEO of Draganfly. “The interest in our modular Flex FPV system and integrated drone platforms reinforces our focus on innovation, mission adaptability, and coalition-aligned development priorities.”

The company also engaged with representatives from leading academic and research institutions to explore potential collaborative initiatives in military drone advancement and demining technologies.

Draganfly’s presence underscored its long-standing support for Ukraine and its commitment to field-driven innovation shaped by real-time operational feedback.

Draganfly has been invited to return to Riga in August 2025 for the upcoming Security Conference, with further planning underway.

Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO; CSE: DPRO; FSE: 3U8) is the creator of quality, cutting-edge drone solutions, software, and AI systems that revolutionize the way organizations operate. Recognized as being at the forefront of technology for over 25 years, Draganfly is an award-winning industry leader serving the public safety, public health, mining, agriculture, industrial inspections, security, and mapping and surveying markets. Draganfly is a company driven by passion, ingenuity, and the need to provide efficient solutions and first-class services to its customers around the world with the goal of saving time, money, and lives.

Barrett and MARS Inc Team Win U.S. Army xTech Soldier Lethality Competition with Revolutionary 30mm Precision Grenadier System

Monday, June 9th, 2025

MURFREESBORO, TN – The U.S. Army has announced that the MARS Inc, Barrett team has been selected as the winner of the xTech Soldier Lethality competition.  In six months, this team of agile businesses were able to design, build, test, and demonstrate the effectiveness of a new 30mm grenade rifle system in support of the Army’s Precision Grenadier System (PGS) requirement.  PGS is a soldier portable, shoulder fired, semi-automatic, magazine fed, integrated armament system (weapon, ammunition, fire control) that enables rapid, precision engagements to destroy personnel targets in defilade and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) targets at close range.  Both companies are proud to have the opportunity to provide this unique capability to the U.S. and allied war fighters.


MARS Inc. and Barrett’s PGS submission for U.S. Army’s xTech.

“For decades, Barrett has changed the battlefield with revolutionary systems like the shoulder fired semi-automatic .50 caliber Model 82 and its modern variants, as well as the MRAD MK 22 — the world’s most accurate multi-caliber sniper rifle,” said Bryan James, Barrett CEO. “These weapon systems are now supporting the U.S. and more than 80 allied nations around the world. With our focus now on the U.S. Army’s PGS initiative, we are committed to delivering another game changing advantage: a system with Programmable Air Bursting counter defilade and Counter-UAS capabilities designed to keep our troops safe and ensure mission success.”

The xTech program was an incredible demonstration of the strength and capabilities of the Barrett team to collaborate with like minded companies to achieve what many thought unachievable in the given time frame. As part of that journey, Barrett worked closely with small business innovator MARS Inc to bring their technology to life, AMTEC Corp to develop an entirely new family of 30mm shoulder fired munitions, and Precision Targeting to provide a fire control system customized for the AMTEC ammunition. This new ammunition family will have the full spectrum of capabilities required to achieve the US Army’s mission to provide over match on the modern battlefield. This includes, Programmable Air Bursting High Explosive (HE), Proximity Fuzed and Point Detonating HE, as well as a Close Quarter Battle Round.

“This award highlights not only our technical capabilities, but the power of partnership, agility, and a shared mission,” said Ryan Krantz, Barrett Vice President of Business Development & Sales. “We’re proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the U.S. Army to deliver the next leap forward in soldier lethality.”


Barrett and MARS Inc. put their xTech Precision Grenadier System prototype to the test in a live fire event.

VZ Grips Launches Affiliate Program Through AvantLink Affiliate Network

Sunday, June 8th, 2025

Tallahassee, FL – [5/21/2025] – VZ Grips, a leading manufacturer of premium handgun grips and firearm accessories, is excited to announce the launch of its new affiliate program in partnership with the AvantLink affiliate network.

This strategic initiative provides content creators, marketers, and firearm industry partners the opportunity to earn commissions by promoting VZ Grips’ high-quality products. By joining the AvantLink network, affiliates gain access to a comprehensive suite of marketing tools, real-time tracking, and generous commission structures to help them succeed.

“Our customers are passionate about precision, performance, and quality—and so are we,” said John VanZyck, Founder and CEO of VZ Grips. “We’re thrilled to partner with AvantLink to extend our reach and reward affiliates who share our commitment to excellence.”

VZ Grips is known for its wide array of G10 and other custom grip materials, designed to enhance firearm performance and aesthetics. With a reputation built on innovation and durability, the company’s products are trusted by shooters, law enforcement, and military personnel worldwide.

The affiliate program is open to all qualified publishers and offers competitive commissions, frequent promotions, and dedicated support to ensure affiliate success.

For more information or to apply, visit www.VZGrips.com/affiliates or find VZ Grips on AvantLink’s merchant directory.

Introducing NAS3 6mm ARC – A New Era of Performance, Exclusively by BlackArc Munitions

Friday, June 6th, 2025

BlackArc Munitions is proud to announce that we are the exclusive licensee of the NAS3 6mm ARC program, in partnership with Shell Shock Technologies.

This program, built on Shell Shock Technologies’ NAS3 hybrid case design, elevates the 6mm ARC to new performance levels. With an 8% increase in case capacity, the NAS3 6mm ARC delivers significant velocity gains while meeting SAAMI safety standards. Newly designed platforms are being developed across the industry, and BlackArc Munitions will offer a range of loads at optimized pressures that maximize the cartridge’s advanced potential with significant increases in velocity.

The new NAS3 6mm ARC will initially be offered in loads for precision and competition applications, as well as for defensive and hunting needs. Our R&D efforts are ongoing, and by the time the product is released, we are committed to introducing heavier projectiles that will redefine the ballistic capabilities of the 6mm ARC.

BlackArc Munitions is honored to bring this exclusive partnership with Shell Shock Technologies to life.

We are committed to our loyal customer base – your trust drives us to expand our lineup and push the limits of precision ammunition.

Stay tuned. Standby for serious results.

– John Wright

Owner and Former US Army Sniper

UF PRO Launches Waist/Flex Belt Designed for Enhanced Fit and Functionality

Friday, June 6th, 2025

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (05.06.2025)

UF PRO, part of Mehler Systems and a leading provider of advanced tactical clothing, has introduced the Waist/Flex Belt—a new accessory engineered to work seamlessly with the brand’s compatible pants.

Designed with end-user comfort and operational practicality in mind, the Waist/Flex Belt enhances overallfit, stability, and compatibility with holsters and over-belts.

The Waist/Flex Belt securely holds UF PRO pants in place while allowing for flexible movement and breathability in the lower back area. Its soft, flat buckle and side reinforcements make it well-suited for users who require reliable gear integration without unnecessary bulk or discomfort.

A key feature is the adjustable stiffness: users can remove the side reinforcements when flexibility is preferred or leave them in place when extra support is needed. The belt also functions as an under-belt, providing a non-intrusive foundation beneath an over-belt or load-bearing gear.

Compatible exclusively with select UF PRO pants—such as the P-40 Urban Gen.2 Pants, P-40 Blu-Flex Jeans, P-40 Ranger Shorts, Striker X Gen.2 Combat Pants, and Striker TT Combat Pants—the Waist/Flex Belt ensures a tailored fit through UF PRO’s Waist/Flex system. The design supports long-wear use and adaptability in high-mobility scenarios.

For more product details and availability, visit: ufpro.com/accessories/waist-flex-belt

RTK, LLC Offers World’s first Anti-Bloom GPNVG from L3Harris

Friday, June 6th, 2025

Southern Pines, NC (June 5, 2025)- Research Technology Keystone, LLC., introduces the L3Harris GPNVG with Anti-Bloom tubes.

The L3Harris Anti-Bloom tube (10160UW-SA-C00-24UMH/1225) was manufactured briefly at L3Harris and discontinued due to the high cost of manufacturing.  RTK, LLC secured an allocation of L3Harris Anti-Bloom High FOM (2376+) Unfilmed White Phosphor Aviation Spec tubes and scheduled the upgrade of several GPNVG units for these special tubes, and they just started delivering this month.

NVG users know that when viewing bright sources of light with standard night vision tubes, the lights will appear to “bloom” with a halo around the light, making it impossible to observe anything behind the halo.  L3Harris ANTI-BLOOM tubes do exactly what the name implies- they will not “bloom” with a halo, so you can see beyond the light source.  

RTK has a limited number of units available in both ANVIS and BNVIS configuration for the most discriminating of GPNVG users.  These are the only known GPNVG units in this configuration, and because the tube is discontinued, it will not likely ever be seen again.  Price on request- serious inquiries only. 

Please direct inquiries to cs@rtkllc.com

Rheinmetall Receives Major Orders for 155 mm Ammunition from an International Customer – Order Value in the Higher Double-Digit Million Euro Range

Thursday, June 5th, 2025

Rheinmetall has received additional major orders for the delivery of 155 mm artillery ammunition. An international customer has placed two orders at the subsidiary Rheinmetall Denel Munition to supply extended range, full bore (ERFB) 155 mm artillery ammunition worth a total of a high double-digit million amount. The order includes projectiles, propellants and fuses.

“We are very grateful for the trust that our business partners and customers place in our globally proven extended-range ammunition and our technology for long ranges”, says Dr Frank Dirksen, CEO of Rheinmetall Denel Munition. “As a system supplier, we are constantly working to improve our cutting-edge technologies to offer the best possible solutions to modern armed forces”.

The latest orders are the result of rapidly rising international demand, triggered by the tense global security situation. Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of large-calibre ammunition. The Düsseldorf-based Technology Corporation Rheinmetall has been increasing its production capacity since 2022, and aims at producing at least 1.1 million 155 mm artillery shells per year by 2027.

Like the entire Rheinmetall Corporation, Rheinmetall Denel Munition is constantly expanding its production capacities, as international supply capacities are unable to keep up with demand.

Rheinmetall Denel Munition is also making progress in integrating significant technological innovations into its production. This also results in higher performance and outstanding field usability for users. Rheinmetall Denel Munition is currently validating the firing of precision projectiles with a range of 73 km from howitzers which are compatible with NATO’s Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding (JBMOU). These ranges enable significant survivability and offensive effectiveness on the battlefield.

Rheinmetall Denel Munition is committed to its long-standing business partners and end customers, who value the company’s delivery reliability and high level of technical support. With its production capacities and technical expertise, Rheinmetall Denel Munition enables utmost and reliable performance of 155 mm howitzers. This expertise extends the life cycle and value of the howitzers. Rheinmetall Denel Munition has its own manufacturing structure that covers all energetic and mechanical parts for the production of 155 mm ammunition, whether rocket-assisted, with increased effect or an even scattering. Rheinmetall Denel Munition expects increasing orders, and is constantly adjusting its five-year production plan to meet the needs of its most important customers.