XC3 Weaponlight

Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

Raft Awarded Contract for Desert Sentry to Accelerate Operator-Centric AI for CENTCOM Missions

Saturday, January 24th, 2026

Raft’s AI Mission System empowers CENTCOM operators with on-demand computer vision tailored to real-world missions – broad-area satellite search, distributed maritime monitoring, and counter-UxS threat detection.

MCLEAN, Va., Jan. 22, 2026 — Raft, a leading defense technology company, powering the software-driven foundation of modern warfare, has been awarded a highly competitive Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) by the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO), in partnership with U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), following a five-day vendor bake-off. Hosted last fall by CENTCOM, the evaluation sought cutting-edge solutions to operationalize AI on the battlefield. Raft’s win underscores its ability to rapidly deliver deployable, operator-ready technology that meets the evolving demands of the modern fight.

Raft’s AI Mission System ([R] AIMS) delivers a no-code machine learning system that puts the power of computer vision directly into the hands of operators. Raft built and deployed a fully containerized, Agentic AI platform that enables operators to train, evaluate, and deploy new Computer Vision models with confidence and verifiability—no data science background required.

“This wasn’t about building another tool,” said Shubhi Mishra, founder and CEO of Raft. “This was about rethinking how AI gets built for mission-critical environments and how we empower operators to adapt when the mission demands it. Raft exists to turn operators into super-operators, and that starts by putting AI creation directly in their hands.”

By integrating seamlessly with NGA Maven workflows, [R]AIMS enables model refresh in days—supporting key use cases like:

Satellite Broad Area Search: Quickly train gap-filler models on-the-fly to support large-scale overhead imagery tasks

Distributed Monitoring: Enable task forces like TF-59 to deploy and adapt CV models across maritime environments

Counter-UxS Threat Detection: Build computer vision to detect, label, and characterize optical threats without waiting on centralized updates

Built with Raft’s agentic AI principles at its core, the system features built-in guardrails via [R]AIMS and machine-assisted feedback loops for Responsible AI—ensuring every model is traceable, adaptable, and aligned with mission intent.

“[R]AIMS Vision enables something we’ve been chasing for years: COCOMs building their own AI at the speed of the mission,” said Bhaarat Sharma, CTO at Raft. “This is how you scale intelligence across the force—by putting tools in the hands of operators and giving them the autonomy to iterate in real time.”

[R]AIMS validates what is possible when Agentic AI moves beyond conversational interfaces to deliver autonomous, operator-controlled computer vision that adapts at mission speed. Operators rapidly created new gap-filler models for unplanned ISR scenarios—without needing data scientists on call. The system even handled optical threat detection and object tracking in real time, including NITF and other complex formats. [R]AIMS is now positioned for rapid expansion across combatant commands, supporting faster intelligence cycles, better decision-making, and real-time adaptation on the battlefield.

For more information about Raft, visit www.teamraft.com.

Streamlight Launches the ProTac Rail Mount VIR Pro

Saturday, January 24th, 2026

Multi-Fuel Long Gun Light Provides Both White and IR Illumination

EAGLEVILLE, PA, January 23, 2026Streamlight®, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices, introduced the ProTac® Rail Mount VIR PRO, a gun-mounted tactical light featuring up to 1,100 lumens of visible white light and an infrared (IR) LED. The new light is designed to securely fit all long guns with MIL-STD-1913 or M-LOK® and M-LOK compatible rails.

The ProTac Rail Mount VIR PRO enables users to easily toggle between bright white and IR light via the head-mounted switch, allowing first responders to illuminate a target for identification while remaining undetected. A built-in cutoff prevents accidental visible light activation while in IR mode, guaranteeing stealth and control.

The light’s Jack-Cap® tail cap switch provides switch redundancy, offering a choice between push-button or remote pressure switch operation. A TEN-TAP®programmable switch allows users to select one of three different programs: white light high only/IR high only (default); white light medium only/IR high-low; or white light low-high/IR low-high.

“The ProTac Rail Mount VIR PRO provides shooting enthusiasts, law enforcement personnel and tactical users alike with a flexible lighting tool that has both visible white light and IR illumination,” said Streamlight President Michael F. Dineen. “It’s an essential tool for both covert and overt operations.”

The new light is powered by two CR123A lithium batteries or a single Streamlight SL-B26 lithium ion USB rechargeable battery pack that recharges in five hours. Featuring high, medium and low settings, the white LED provides up to 1,100 lumens and 40,000 candela over a 400-meter beam distance on high and 120 lumens, 4,200 candela and a 130-meter beam distance on low. For IR lighting, the ProTac Rail Mount VIR Pro uses a 940nm IR LED, which emits 2,300mW on high and 600 mW on low.

Run times range from 1.5 hours (high) to 11 hours (low) when using CR123A batteries, and from 2 hours (high) to 14 hours (low) with the SL-B26 battery pack. The IR light runs up to 7.25 hours using CR123A batteries and up to 9 hours with the SL-B26 battery.

The ProTac Rail Mount VIR PRO has an ambidextrous momentary/steady on-off switch. Its rail clamp securely attaches to rifles, carbines, and submachine guns with a MIL-STD-1913 rail or with the included M-LOK mount, allowing for alternative mounting options to M-LOK and M-LOK compatible rail systems.

The light is constructed from 6000 Series machined aircraft aluminum, with a black anodized finish. It measures 5.65 inches in length and weighs 8.2 ounces with two CR123A batteries and 8.8 ounces with an SL-B26 rechargeable battery pack. The new light uses a high temperature, shock-mounted, impact-resistant BOROFLOAT® glass lens. 

Featuring extensively live-fire tested construction, the ProTac Rail Mount VIR PRO is IPX7 rated for waterproof operation to 1 meter for 30 minutes with the standard push button switch installed. It is IPX4-rated for water-resistant operation when using the remote pressure switch. The ProTac RM VIR PRO has an MSRP of $400.00, while a USB version of the light has an MSRP of $418.00. Both come with Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty. 

DryStick Launches Practical, Reusable Dryfire Targets

Friday, January 23rd, 2026

DryStick™ Targets announces the release of a new line of reusable adhesive dryfire targets built for shooters who value simplicity, consistency, and foundational skill development.

Designed without unnecessary features or tech, DryStick™ gives firearm owners a clean, reliable way to practice sight alignment, transitions, and trigger control in any environment.

Each DryStick™ target uses a repositionable adhesive that sticks to most smooth surfaces and removes cleanly without residue. Shooters can build a functional training setup in seconds using doors, cabinets, walls, garages, or other flat surfaces, making meaningful dryfire practice accessible regardless of space or experience level.

“The mission of DryStick™ is to promote safety and proficiency for all firearm users,” said Joe Thomson, founder of DryStick™.

“Dry fire has played a huge role in my own development as a shooter, and I created DryStick™ so others can get the same effective reps without needing complicated equipment or a tedious set up process.”

As DryStick™ continues to grow, the company plans to offer custom target options including high-resolution photo targets, wholesale programs for organizations, agencies, and retailers, and full-size shoot-house targets that function just like the current dryfire line.

Key Features:

  • Repositionable & reusable — adheres cleanly and removes cleanly
  • Scaled silhouettes for realistic visual processing
  • Fast, no-hardware setup on almost any smooth surface
  • Indoor or outdoor use
  • Purpose-built for foundational dryfire principles

DryStick™ Targets are available now at DryStickTargets.com.

CTOMS Launches X-Belt Padding System Gen III

Friday, January 23rd, 2026

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada – January 22, 2026 – CTOMS Inc. is excited to announce the launch of the X-Belt™ Padding System (PS) Gen III, the latest advancement to their classic low-profile, high-performance battle belt.

The X-Belt PS Gen III is a streamlined outer duty belt with laser-cut MOLLE, designed for maximum comfort under full operational loads while being lighter and more durable than previous generations. Its low-profile padding is hook-and-loop adjustable, allowing a precise fit across a range of waist sizes and seasonal/operational clothing layers.

The X-Belt PS Gen III integrates seamlessly with CTOMS’ mission-adaptive MGTD™ belt and harness systems. As the outer belt, it pairs with either the M3 Inner Belt or M3 Rigger’s Belt, enabling rapid donning of the M3 Harness Assembly without removing the belt. This allows operators to quickly upscale from a standard duty belt to a fully integrated harness for vertical operations.

Configure your complete MGTD™ system using the kit builders:

Rigger Belt System Kit Builder

M3 Belt System Kit Builder

For more information and to order, visit www.ctomsinc.com.

Darley Launches the Darley Data Center, a New Data Visualization Platform

Friday, January 23rd, 2026

Darley Launches the Darley Data CenterSM, a New Data Visualization and Performance Insight Platform for First Responders

ITASCA, IL – January 22, 2026 – Darley, a leading provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment, is proud to announce the launch of the Darley Data CenterSM, a powerful new customized platform that helps first responders visualize data, identify trends, and compare department performance though a propriety data tool that analyzes National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) data. 

Accessible at DarleyData.com, the platform delivers a streamlined, intuitive user experience built for making data?driven decisions.

Fire Department Data Presented:

  • Response Times
  • Call Volume
  • Incident Type
  • Action Taken
  • Heat Map of Call Location
  • Resource Efficiency
  • Staffing Levels
  • Annual Department Trends
  • Compare Performance with Other Departments 

“We’re incredibly excited to offer this powerful platform as a free service to the first responder community,” said Paul Darley, CEO & Chairman at Darley. “The Darley Data CenterSM helps fire departments dynamically visualize their data and compare performance, providing leaders with actionable insights that support effective, informed operations and resource allocation decisions.”

To see the platform in action, watch our new video showcasing the features and capabilities of the Darley Data Center here:

www.darley.com 

shop.darley.com

Blue Force Gear Announces 2025 Partner Awards

Friday, January 23rd, 2026

LAS VEGAS, NV. – Blue Force Gear, Inc., the world leader in load carriage equipment innovation, is proud to announce the recipients of their 2025 Partner Awards. These awards recognize outstanding performance, commitment, and dedication to promoting the Blue Force Gear brand worldwide.

The 2025 Awards span domestic and international categories, recognizing partners who have gone above and beyond in supporting Blue Force Gear’s mission to deliver cutting-edge load carriage solutions to professionals in the shooting sports, hunting, military, and law enforcement industries.

2025 Award Recipients:

2025 Commercial Distributor of the Year – Awarded to RSR for exceptional distribution performance and outstanding support of Blue Force Gear’s commercial market growth.

2025 Commercial Master Dealer of the Year – Awarded to Primary Arms for demonstrated excellence in retail performance and customer engagement.

2025 OEM Account of the Year – Awarded to Daniel Defense for outstanding collaboration and integration of Blue Force Gear products.

2025 NBS Dealer of the Year – Awarded to H&H Shooting Sports for exceptional performance within the Nation’s Best Sports buying group network.

2025 Buying Group of the Year – Presented to Nation’s Best Sports for outstanding partnership and support of Blue Force Gear’s dealer network.

2025 International Partner of Excellence – Top Revenue – Awarded to Colt Canada for achieving the highest international revenue performance.

2025 International Partner of Excellence – Outstanding Growth – Awarded to TMH for exceptional year-over-year growth and market expansion.

2025 International Partner of Excellence – Strategic Collaboration – Awarded to MP-SEC for exemplary partnership and strategic market development.

These partnerships enable Blue Force Gear to deliver innovative load carriage solutions to professionals in the shooting sports, hunting, military, and law enforcement industries worldwide. For more information about Blue Force Gear or any of their product offerings, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

Castelion Breaks Ground on Project Ranger, Advancing Scaled Hypersonic Manufacturing in New Mexico

Thursday, January 22nd, 2026

New 1,000-acre manufacturing campus will invest more than $220 million, create 300+ high-paying jobs, and generate over $650 million in economic impact for New Mexico

RIO RANCHO, N.M., Jan. 21, 2026 — Castelion today announced the launch of Project Ranger, a 1,000-acre hypersonic manufacturing campus in Sandoval County, designed to support high-cadence production of hypersonic strike systems. The project will create approximately 300 high-paying manufacturing jobs and represent more than $220 million in private investment, with an estimated $650 million in economic impact for New Mexico over the next decade.

The Project Ranger groundbreaking, attended by New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, U.S. Army Portfolio Acquisition Executive Fires Lt. General Frank Lozano, Director of NAVAIR’s Rapid Capabilities Cell Paul McGinty, and other regional and county leaders, marks a major step in scaling domestic hypersonic manufacturing capacity.

“This is economic development in New Mexico—high-tech companies bringing high-paying jobs,” said Governor Michell Lujan Grisham. “Castelion chose our site because we have the workforce, the expertise and infrastructure they need to succeed.”

Project Ranger will support solid rocket motor manufacturing, static testing, and final assembly of hypersonic weapons, reinforcing New Mexico’s position at the forefront of defense innovation. The first building will be completed this summer, with all twenty-one buildings on the campus complete and ready for production by the end of 2026.

“We chose New Mexico for its unparalleled technical talent and history of scientific achievement,” said Bryon Hargis, CEO and Co-Founder of Castelion. “Project Ranger represents a renaissance in American manufacturing, delivering the advanced systems our country needs. We’re proud to partner with a community that has powered some of our nation’s greatest leaps forward. We have a bright future together.”

U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich highlighted the project’s significance for both economic growth and national security.

“I’m pleased to welcome the groundbreaking of Castelion’s new manufacturing facility in Sandoval County that will strengthen our national security, grow our state’s economy, and create over 300 permanent jobs that New Mexicans can build their families around,” said Senator Heinrich. “This is a great example of what New Mexico does best: Developing cutting-edge science and technology and manufacturing it right here in our state. As New Mexico’s senior senator, I will keep working to further bolster New Mexico’s bases, defense research labs, and private industry partners so we can keep excelling in emerging defense capabilities.”

Rob Black, Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Economic Development Department, emphasized the broader workforce impact.

“Today marks the continued evolution of New Mexico’s innovation economy, demonstrating that New Mexico is the next frontier for technologies that are essential for our economy and our national security,” said Secretary Black. “Castelion also adds a new layer of career opportunities for the next generation of New Mexicans who can add building really cool rockets as a potential career in their home state.”

Local and regional collaboration was essential to New Mexico’s selection, driven by efforts from Sandoval County, the City of Rio Rancho, the Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance (AREA), Sandoval Economic Alliance (SEA), and state officials.

“I am very excited and grateful for Castelion to be incredible partners with us to help our nation stay ahead of our competitors when it comes to national security,” said New Mexico State Senator Jay Block. “This company will be critical to catch up and pass China and Russia in hypersonic technologies. This is a race we cannot lose.”

“The decision by Castelion to have its next rocket manufacturing facility in Sandoval County conjoins opportunity and legacy,” said Sandoval County Board of Commissions Chair Jordan Juarez. “This company has the vision, expertise, and experience in our country’s defense program; Sandoval County has the high-tech talent to support its efforts and also the land and logistics for its manufacturing needs. Combined, Castelion and Sandoval County continue New Mexico’s legacy and leadership in technology and defense. We are proud to partner with them in this endeavor. We celebrate that there will be an additional 300 high-paying jobs coming to our County, and together we will contribute to strengthening New Mexico’s role in the nation’s defense program.”

“Sandoval County is committed to providing the services necessary to assist Castelion in the successful build and operation of its newest rocket manufacturing facility,” said Wayne Johnson, Sandoval County Manager. “From our Economic Development Department to Public Works to Public Safety, we are ready to bring this project forward with a company that is dedicated to strengthening national security. Our qualified workforce is ready to join the Castelion team, and we are pleased that 300 jobs, paying on average, a $100,000 annual salary will be on this side of the river. Thank you, Castelion.”

“Today’s groundbreaking is a signal,” said Chad Matheson, interim president and CEO of AREA. “A signal that New Mexico and Greater Albuquerque will continue to lead in America’s defense and manufacturing future. Castelion’s decision to invest here reflects the strength of our assets, the depth of our talent, and the collaborative leadership that makes New Mexico competitive on a national scale.”

“Project Ranger represents a significant investment in New Mexico’s future and a strong vote of confidence in our community,” said Gregg Hull, Mayor of Rio Rancho. “Today’s groundbreaking brings high quality jobs, strengthens the economy and positions the region as a leader in advanced manufacturing and innovation for years to come.”

www.castelion.com

Gentex PURSUIT Helmet System Selected as US Navy Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet

Thursday, January 22nd, 2026

CARBONDALE, PA, January 21, 2026 – Gentex Corporationannounced today that its PURSUIT Helmet System has been selected by the US Naval Aircrew Systems program office (PMA-202) as the Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet(NGFWH).

The Navy NGFWH awarded contract is a 5-year Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract to deliver over 5,000 NGFWH systems and associated spares to support the fielding of the next generation helmet across all Navy fixed wing aircraft, including E-2D, F/A-18, E/A-18G, T-45, T-6, and the in-development Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS),and is anticipated to total approximately $22M during the period of performance, representing one of the most significant modernization efforts for US Navy aircrew flight equipment in recent years. Awarded under PMA-202’s Helmet Mask Regulator (HMR) program and covering both Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) and Full-Rate Production (FRP), the selection underscores Gentex’s proven commitment to delivering next generation protective technologies that evolvewith the modern warfighter’s needs. It also further solidifies Gentex’s position as the global leader in advanced personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, aircrew, emergency responders, and industrial personnel.

“This contract award from the US Navy is a significant milestone for Gentex and demonstrates our unwaveringcommitment to advancing the world’s most innovative protection solutions for warfighters,” said Robert McCay, Vice President of Aircrew Systems at Gentex Corporation. “The PURSUIT system delivers meaningful advancements in aircrew safety, comfort, and mission performance, ensuring NavalAviators and Naval Flight Officers are equipped withtechnology that keeps pace with the rapidly evolving demands of modern aviation. We are honored to continue our trusted partnership with the US Navy and look forward to providing the US military and international allies with the PURSUIT Helmet System for decades to come.”

The Navy’s decision reflects the PURSUIT Helmet System’ssuperior performance, enhanced safety features, and modern, future-proof architecture, purpose-built to support emerging mission requirements. PURSUIT directly addresses long-standing aircrew concerns identified across the services, including neck strain from poorly balanced helmets due tosuboptimal HMD/NVG integration and heightened ejection seat injury risk. The helmet’s modular, lightweight design with an optimized center of gravity and Gentex’s collaboration with various HMD OEMs allow the delivery of advanced technology solutions that provide aircrew with an immediate, tactically relevant helmet solution that ensures 600 KEAS protection.Building on 70+ years of military partnerships, Gentex delivers a mature helmet solution that enhances warfighter capability across multiple platforms.

The PURSUIT Helmet System was developed through extensive collaboration with US Navy and US Air Force stakeholders, HMD OEMs, and international partners. Its architecture directly supports the performance attributes emphasized in the USAF’s NGFWH initiative, including improved weight distribution, enhanced HMD integration, and reduced aircrew physiological burden.

This award also signals broader readiness for adoption across US and allied military aviation communities that often look to Navy procurement decisions as a benchmark for modernization, reinforcing Gentex’s leadership role in shaping the future of aircrew protection.

About the PURSUIT Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet System

A modern helmet for the modern fighter, PURSUIT is designed to support advances in aircraft helmet-mounted display systems.Its lightweight carbon shell reduces neck and spine strain, lowering the risk of short and long-term injuries from extended missions and high-G maneuvers. The helmet’s optimized balance and center of gravity provide aircrew with a secure,stable fit during dynamic maneuvering in all HMD/NVG configurations.

The PURSUIT helmet is also engineered for the future. Fully compliant with USN and USAF performance standards, it incorporates a Modular Open System Approach (MOSA),enabling seamless integration of current and future HMDs, advanced communications systems, and optical and respiratory protection. The result is a highly adaptable, mission-ready platform built to meet evolving warfighter needs for decades to come.

About Gentex Corporation

With a history of innovation that spans 130 years, Gentex Corporation is the leading supplier of high-performance flight equipment for military, law enforcement, aircrew and aircraft maintainers worldwide. The company’s comprehensive line of durable and innovative helmet systems for fixed wing, rotary wing, and cross-platform applications allows for the easy integration of advanced capability upgrades without sacrificing protection. An equally comprehensive line of hearing protection and communication solutions provide these users with superior hearing protection and precise, intelligible communications in the most extreme noise environments.

Click here for more information on the Gentex PURSUIT Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet System.

NAVAIR Public Release SPR-2025-0058. Distribution Statement A – “Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited”