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Midwest Armor Introduces The RIGlet: Versatile Convertible Placard for Tactical Adaptability

Wednesday, March 5th, 2025

Midwest Armor, the Knoxville-based manufacturer of American-made tactical equipment, announces the release of The RIGlet, a height-adjustable placard that combines the functionality of a pouch and placard in one compact, adaptable platform.

The RIGlet featured in Multicam

The RIGlet offers a streamlined approach to tactical equipment organization with its low-profile design that includes three magazine slots and a spacious zippered admin pouch. Its modular configuration allows for seamless transitions between plate carrier attachment and standalone chest rig setups.

The RIGlet featured on a plate carrier (side view)

The RIGlet can also be converted into a full chest rig using the duckbill modification, which allows for the integration of First Spear Tubes® or 1″ side release buckles, facilitating a quick-release chest rig configuration.

Sizing:

-Dimensions: 8″ x 6″ x 2″
-Weight: 9.5 oz
-Height-adjustable design

Compatible Add-ons (Sold Separately):

-Hilo MOLLE Placard Wings
-Drop Pouch
-Hilo Chest Rig Tubes Duckbill Insert
-Hilo Buckle Duckbill Insert

Like all Midwest Armor products, The RIGlet is designed, cut, sewn, and finished in their Knoxville, Tennessee facility, upholding the company’s commitment to American manufacturing and quality.

Whether you’re augmenting your plate carrier setup, seeking additional storage options, or transitioning to a chest rig for greater flexibility, the RIGlet delivers unparalleled functionality in a streamlined design, making it an indispensable asset in any operational environment.

For more information or to place an order, visit: midwestarmor.com/products/the-riglet

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, Press Release | Comments Off on Midwest Armor Introduces The RIGlet: Versatile Convertible Placard for Tactical Adaptability

Rheinmetall VTAL – the Compact and Modular Laser Module for Special Forces

Wednesday, March 5th, 2025

The modular laser module VTAL from Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics, designed especially for special forces, is extremely robust and compact. The “Variable Tactical Aiming Laser” is suitable for use on today’s shorter assault rifles as well as on other small arms.

Watertight, light and stable, the metal housing has a built-in MIL STD 1913/STANAG 4694 interface. Because the VTAL protrudes only about 25 mm above the mounting rail, it does not interfere with the line of sight during conventional optical aiming. The VTAL features an extremely strong visible red dot laser, an infrared dot laser, and an infrared illuminator. The superior quality of the lasers and their consistency of form enhances the user’s situational awareness in all operating environments. Importantly, the VTAL is compatible with all standard image intensifier devices. The fully integrated laser block is aligned at the factory, making adjustment on the weapon simple. The VTAL can also be configured according to customer requirements.

Owing to the device’s modern design, the operator can adjust the intensity of both dot lasers with the aid of a colour-coded cable switch. The illuminator can be focused using a separate control knob. Furthermore, the VTAL can be coupled with other tactical weapon lights and can be operated using a combined two button cable switch.

Rheinmetall offers the “TL-MissionLight” as such a separate weapon torch. It is available in a standard version with a dual LED head and a special version for hostage rescue operations. Typically, the LM-VTAL and one of the two weapon lights are mounted on the weapon. The robust design assures stability and dependability. The system can withstand the worst battlefield conditions and is waterproof to a depth of 30 metres. This way, operators know they can rely on the device at all times.

Rheinmetall’s laser light package is already in use with various special operation formations. Among others it is a component of the Bundeswehr’s Special Forces Assault Rifle (“Sturmgewehr Spezialkräfte Bundeswehr, leicht”).

Posted in International, Lights, Press Release | Comments Off on Rheinmetall VTAL – the Compact and Modular Laser Module for Special Forces

Exosens Makes First US Investment in Night Vision Production Capacity to Address Growing Demand and Benefit from New Opportunities

Wednesday, March 5th, 2025

MÉRIGNAC, FRANCE – MARCH, 3RD 2025

In response to increasing demand, Exosens will invest €20M over the next two years to expand production capacity in both Europe and the U.S.

This investment will establish Exosens’ first U.S. manufacturing site for producing “Made in America” image intensifier tubes

It strengthens Exosens’ position to capture a larger share of the world’s largest market, which represents 45% of the global market and is set for strong growth in both commercial and defense sectors

The global night vision market is benefiting from growing demand, driven by increasing defense budgets and the need for armies worldwide to enhance their night fighting capabilities. The return of high-density combat has underscored the critical importance of night operation abilities as a key tactical advantage. NATO and Tier-1 allies continued to ramp up their procurement of night vision systems in 2024, though they are still far from reaching the targeted equipment rate.

With decades of expertise, Photonis, brand of Exosens, offers image intensifier tubes, the engine of night vision devices, which improve soldiers’ tactical situational awareness, agility and mobility, as well as their targeting and driving capabilities, in the darkest of nights.

In order to meet increasing night vision demand, Exosens invests €20m to expand its production capacity not only in Europe but also in the US with, for the first time, a new production plant in the US underscoring additional market opportunities with locally produced “Made in America” image intensifier tubes.

This new installation will take place in Sturbridge (Massachusetts) where the group has already its Photonis Scientific Inc subsidiary. Exosens will take advantage of the support and synergies available within the group to optimize the time setup for the manufacturing of the image intensifier tubes, which is expected to begin in early 2027.

“We are pleased to announce a new investment in our capacity on the US ground, which represents a major step in our strategy. Expansion into the US market presents a significant opportunity to strengthen our position as a global leader in image intensifier tubes. This new capacity will also enable us to meet customers’ demand for large-volume, high-performance products manufactured in the US.” said Exosens CEO, Jérôme Cerisier

www.exosens.com

Posted in Industry, International, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on Exosens Makes First US Investment in Night Vision Production Capacity to Address Growing Demand and Benefit from New Opportunities

Mach Industries Selected by Army for Contract to Develop Strategic Strike Aircraft

Wednesday, March 5th, 2025

Huntington Beach, CA, March 4th, 2025 – Mach Industries, a defense manufacturing company that develops advanced aircraft, was selected by the Army Applications Laboratory to develop Strategic Strike, a vertical takeoff (VTO) cruise missile, enabling a precision strike for maneuver units. The contract for Strategic Strike, awarded in Q3 of 2024, will enhance the strike capabilities of Company through Brigade-level maneuver elements.

Since winning this contract, Mach has rapidly developed the Strategic Strike program, locking Strategic Strike’s design by the end of September 2024, and successfully testing vertical takeoff into full-performance wingborne flight by mid-January 2025. Work is currently underway to rapidly integrate AI visual and RF sensing techniques to allow Strategic Strike’s operation in GPS and comms-denied environments.

Strategic Strike has a range of 290 km, carrying a 10+ kg warhead. The combination of VTO, high speed and range/payload is radically novel for the current fighting force. At the culmination of the contract, Mach will provide the warfighter with a VTO asset that has HIMARS range, cruise missile speed, and Hellfire effects.

The emergence of low-cost, man-portable intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) assets has resulted in a new challenge: maneuver elements are now able to sense farther than they can shoot. Presently, the elimination of high-payoff targets is a collaborative effort requiring the coordination of several services or levels of organizations.

Strategic Strike, by contrast, is designed to dramatically improve a maneuver force’s ability to engage high-payoff targets beyond the forward line of troops. This product refinement will produce a versatile strike vehicle to deliver a mission-relevant payload at range.

The primary objective for Strategic Strike is to launch from beyond enemy radar range, reducing the probability of detection, and increasing launch team survivability. Tactical maneuver units will be able to engage and prosecute high-payoff targets, such as radar arrays and artillery pieces, well beyond the forward line of troops.

“I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity to deliver a war-changing capability to our military, and impressed by the engineering and manufacturing team’s hard work–taking Strategic Strike from design kickoff in September to flight just 14 weeks later,” said Ethan Thornton, CEO and Founder of Mach Industries. “I truly think the product team we’ve assembled here will drive generational value to the U.S. at this critical time, and I’m excited every day to see the rate of product development continue to accelerate. The entire Mach team is eagerly awaiting the day when the factory we’re prototyping Strategic Strike in turns on production and deploys them by the thousands to deter wars.”

machindustries.co

Posted in Army, Contracts, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on Mach Industries Selected by Army for Contract to Develop Strategic Strike Aircraft

Dräger Unveils ProAir: Next-Gen Respiratory Protection for Government Operations

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

Advanced, Four-Hour Breathing Apparatus for Federal Government Operations in Extreme Conditions

• Closed-circuit breathing Apparatus
• CO2 Scrubbing Technology
• Prolonged Breathing Comfort
• Customizable Cooling Options

Houston, Texas – March 04, 2025 – Dräger, a global leader in safetytechnology, proudly unveils the NIOSH-certified ProAir, an advanced closed-circuit breathing apparatus (CCBA) designed to provide a continuous oxygen supply for up to four hours. Leveraging over a century of expertise in breathing apparatus technology, this innovative solution is set to transform Federal Government operations in hazardous environments, including below-deck ship incidents, confined spaces, subterranean operations, and HAZMAT operations.

The ProAir can enhance operational readiness for federal agencies, including the armed forces, law enforcement, emergency responders, and environmental protection agencies. By providing an uninterrupted oxygen supply, the ProAir enables personnel to focus on high-risk situations, such as search and rescue missions, decontamination efforts, and HAZMAT response, alongside other critical tasks.

David Warnacut, U.S. Marine and Dräger Product Manager, states, “In high-stakes operations, having dependable and effective equipment is essential. The ProAir provides access to safe, breathable oxygen for extended periods across various operations. This enduring commitment underscores Dräger’s dedication to enhancing the safety and effectiveness of our Federal agents and armed forces in the field.”

Dräger BG ProAir

Adding Time to Critical Missions

The ProAir represents a significant advancement in personal safety gear, providing extended respiratory protection under some of the most challenging conditions. Designed to complement traditional SCBAs, the ProAir maximizes operational capabilities by eliminatingthe need for frequent cylinder changes during prolonged engagements. This additional time helps federal personnel to consolidate focus, complete intricate tasks without interruption, confidently navigate lengthy routes, and handle emergencies without worrying about the clock. By maximizing crucial operational time, the ProAir helpsfederal teams carry out their missions, increasing the safety and efficiency of high-stakes scenarios.

Innovative Scrubbing and Cooling Technology

The ProAir incorporates a proprietary carbon dioxide scrubber embedded in a positive pressure breathing circuit. This technology efficiently removes carbon dioxide and enriches the air with oxygen, removing the reliance on bulky air cylinders. The new RFID chip on the canister enables the ProAir to track the soda lime’s life.

Expanding its versatility, the ProAir introduces two advanced cooling options: the Ice Cooler with durable ice packs and the groundbreaking Phase Change Material (PCM) system, making its debut in North America. The Ice Cooler offers an improved user experience by containing the melted water inside the ice pack. Meanwhile, the PCM system utilizes paraffin wax sheets that require no freezing, offeringenhanced readiness and reliability, marking a significant advancement in CCBA technology.

Securing the Lower Decks

The ProAir extends operational time for responders handling below-deck emergencies, where rapid response and sustained action are critical. Its advanced air management system helps service membershandle long and hazardous tasks effectively, reducing risks from exposure to smoke and harmful fumes. This is crucial for maintaining crew safety and readiness during a maritime crisis, giving additional time to address hazards and navigate complex below-deck configurations.

Confined Space and Sub-T Operations

The ProAir excels in subterranean (Sub-T) environments, where confined spaces and hazardous air conditions can pose significant risks. This solution helps personnel breathe safely and in underground facilities, tunnels, and passageways, allowing teams to execute intricate maneuvers, navigate treacherous terrains, and respond to emergencies confidently. Its robust, extended air supply minimizes the need for frequent cylinder changes, offering continuous protection.

HAZMAT Resilience

The ProAir is purpose-built to help counter HAZMAT threats, providing critical breathing protection during attacks, rescue missions, decontamination, and containment operations. Unlike traditional SCBAs that are limited to 45-60 minutes, the ProAir extends operational time with up to four hours of breathable air, reducing cylinder changeovers and minimizing downtime. This added capacity allows responders to remain in hazardous environments for extended periods, supporting sustained containment, decontamination, and cleanup efforts while improving overall operational efficiency.

Innovative Features for Enhanced Performance:

• Withstands Flames: The ProAir endures direct exposure to flames up to 1,742°F, meeting the highest safety and performance standards.

• Boosts Visibility: Enhances team awareness with Buddy Lights displaying cylinder pressure.

• Handles Extremes: Built to resist high temperatures, dust, debris, and sparks while ensuring agility with advanced ergonomic relief.

• Simplifies Maintenance: Easy, tool-free disassembly and servicing of the CCBA.

• Delivers Instant Updates: View critical supply status and alerts—such as cylinder pressure and time to whistle—on the palm-sized Electronic Control Unit (ECU).

• Enhances Communication: Stay connected with integrated radio features and voice amplification for clear communication in challenging environments.

• Tracks Usage: Leverage the built-in RFID chip to monitor soda lime life and streamline maintenance.

For more information, please visit the Dräger BG ProAir webpage.

Posted in CBRNE, Press Release | Comments Off on Dräger Unveils ProAir: Next-Gen Respiratory Protection for Government Operations

PHLster Announces Major Mid-Cycle Refresh to Enigma Faceplate and Leg Leash Significant Upgrades with No Price Increase

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

St. Paul, MN (March 3, 2025)—PHLster, a leader in innovative concealed carry solutions, is proud to announce a comprehensive mid-cycle refresh to its groundbreaking Enigma holster system. Since the Enigma’s debut in 2020, PHLster has steadily introduced rolling improvements without interrupting production. On March 3, 2025, several significant updates to the Enigma faceplate and leg leash will go into effect simultaneously, offering a more durable, comfortable, and adaptable concealed carry platform—at no added cost.

Upgraded Faceplate: Injection-Molded Polymer

• Stronger, Longer-Lasting Construction: The newfaceplate is no longer laser-cut from Tegris butinjection-molded from a high-strength polymer, offering increased durability over previous iterations.

• Smooth Edges: Users will notice a smooth perimeter, providing a more comfortable draw.

• 3D Surface Texture: A subtle 3D pattern improves traction against clothing without causing damage, helping garments stay in place for better concealment and stability.

Enhanced Leg Leash Design

• Elastic Insert for Daily Comfort: A small segment of durable elastic has been added to the leg leash, ensuring it remains snug throughout the day. Body changes due to hydration, activity levels, and environmental conditions are now effortlessly accommodated.

• Upgraded Buckle: A more secure snap buckle and streamlined quick-adjust sliders make setup and adjustment faster and easier.

• Second Auxiliary Leg Leash: Each Enigma includes an additional leash that can be used in two ways: either as a standalone leg leash (passing under the body rather than around the thigh) or as an optional “garter” for extra support, helping prevent droop during extended wear.

Availability and Pricing

All new Enigma systems sold starting March 3, 2025, will include these enhancements at no additional cost. Furthermore, current Enigma owners can buy a complete upgrade kit that includes a new faceplate, updated leg leashes, and the necessary hardware to completely refresh their existing Enigma setup.

“From day one, the Enigma platform has focused oninnovation and refinements centered on user needs,” said Jon Hauptman, owner of PHLster. “These mid-cycle improvements demonstrate our commitment to providing the most comfortable and reliable concealed carry experience possible—without raising costs for our customers.”

For more information about the Enigma and these new changes, visit PHLster’s website, YouTube Channel, and the PHLster Concealment Workshop Facebook Group.

Posted in Holsters, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Thyrm Launches Two New SwitchBack Flashlight Accessories

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

Sunnyvale, CA – March 3, 2025 – Thyrm, a leading innovator in tactical and everyday carry gear, today announced the release of two new additions to its popular SwitchBack line of flashlight accessories: the SwitchBack 3.0 Duty and the SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry. These innovative accessories enhance the functionality and grip of tactical flashlights, providing users with improved light retention and allowing their hands to remain free for other critical tasks.

The SwitchBack 3.0 Duty is built for rugged use and optimal performance in demanding environments. Its larger diameter ring is compatible with patrol gloves, while its heavy-duty construction ensures impact resistance. Additional traction features provide a secure grip even when wet, and a shortened clip improves pouch compatibility. A full-size lanyard hole accommodates 550 paracord. Like all SwitchBack products, the Duty mounts securely between the light’s tailcap and body.

The SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry is designedfor discreet carry. A steel wire clip provides a low visual profile and a premium feel.Users can select from two clip heights,allowing for a customized ride height in the pocket and enhanced access to the tailcap switch. Its slim ring enables users to engage the SwitchBack ring even when positioned below the pocket opening.

“We are thrilled to introduce our two new SwitchBack models, each crafted to address the unique needs of our varied customer base,” said Andrew Frazier, CEO of Thyrm. “The Duty offers exceptional durability and functionality for tactical professionals, while the Deep Carry provides a discreet and ergonomic option for everyday carry and covert operations. Both products are proudly manufactured in the USA.”

Key Features and Benefits:

SwitchBack 3.0 Duty:

• Larger diameter feature ring for use with gloves

• Heavy-duty construction for impact resistance

• Additional traction features for secure grip

• Shortened clip for improved pouch compatibility

• Full-size lanyard hole

• Secure mounting between tailcap and body

• Made in the USA

SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry:

• Slim finger ring for discreet carry

• Additional ring traction features for enhanced grip

• Steel wire clip for low visual signature and premium feel

• Two-position clip for customized carry and improved switch access

• Secure mounting between tailcap and body

• Made in the USA

Target Audience:

• Duty: Military, law enforcement, search and rescue teams.

• Deep Carry: Civilians, law enforcement (plain clothes), military (covert operations).

Pricing:

SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry – MSRP $24.99

SwitchBack 3.0 Duty – MSRP $19.99

Posted in Advertiser, Lights, Press Release | 3 Comments »

Ermine – Rheinmetall’s New Lightweight Hybrid Vehicle Family for Modern Armed Forces

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

Rheinmetall is showing its tactical small vehicle family Ermine for the first time at the Enforce Tac. It represents a new generation of tactical mobility, combining tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid). Operational creativity is at the core Ermine’s design. Its features enable it to act as an effective force multiplier. Ermine can operate remotely controlled and is prepared for autonomy.

The modular Ermine family currently consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad. Various 4×4 and 6×6 variants are available. All vehicles are based on the same diesel-electric hybrid drivetrain and base platform. This gives Ermine maximum modularity with unrivalled agility. Thanks to the hybrid technology, up to one ton of payload, a range of more than 1,000 kilometres and a top speed of 90 km/h are possible, depending on the vehicle’s configuration. Up to four Ermine vehicles can be transported by cargo helicopters such as the CH-47 or CH-53.

The Ermine vehicles can be configured for various purposes, including reconnaissance & liaison, special operations, anti-tank, weapon carriers,
MedEvac or generator function. At Enforce Tac 2025, Rheinmetall showcased a 4×4 quad with the ROSY smoke/obscurant system and special operation forces equipment. One element is the Mobile Mission Pod (MMP, which also made its debut at Enforce Tac.)

The MMP is designed to conduct standoff reconnaissance and engage enemy forces using small UAVs. Developed primarily for special operations forces, it enables maximum effectiveness behind enemy lines. Thanks to its long standby time and remote operability in conjunction with artificial intelligence (AI), the MMP is designed to be able to operate against enemy forces long after it has been deployed to the battlefield. The MMP combines the expertise of existing products as well as current technologies and experiences from current conflicts in a new product that is outstanding in its capabilities. Thanks to its high degree of automation, AI support and standalone design, it significantly expands the mission portfolio of armed forces, enabling missions that were previously considered impossible.

The Ermine vehicles are furthermore characterised by high mobility in almost any terrain and can also be driven completely silent thanks to their electric drive. If the vehicles are not used for tactical mobility, they can be used as a mobile energy source. The Ermine family can therefore significantly increase the operational value of armed forces.

The Ermine technology was developed in the Netherlands by the start-up company REEQ – a subsidiary of Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. since March 2024 – and is being produced there. The acquisition of REEQ enables Rheinmetall to serve the Dutch and European market in the field of light tactical mobility, both manned and unmanned, in combination with a microgrid – and with short delivery times. Thereby Rheinmetall’s industrial strength and the innovative power of a start-up complement each other. Within the Rheinmetall Group, REEQ retains its status as a start-up in the field of development. The further development and serial production of these vehicles will also take place in the Netherlands.

Posted in International, Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on Ermine – Rheinmetall’s New Lightweight Hybrid Vehicle Family for Modern Armed Forces