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Mack Defense Reaches Milestone with 500th U.S. Army M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck

Monday, March 31st, 2025

ALLENTOWN, PA (March 24, 2025) – MackDefense celebrated the production of its 500th M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck (HDT) in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

The HDT, based off the commercially available Mack® Granite®, is part of the previously announced firm-fixed price $296 million contract over seven years that the U.S. Army awarded Mack Defense in 2018, which allows for up to 683 trucks. The U.S. military in the summer of 2024 ordered 74 HDTs from the presidential budget and 29 were purchased by the U.S. National Guard. Thus far, the military has ordered 549 HDTs from Mack Defense.

“We’re excited that we’ve produced 500 of the Mack HDTs to date fulfilling the various operational needs of our military,” said David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense. “These vehicles play a vital role in supporting our country in various ways, and we’re proud to be the supplier that manufactures them. Thank you to our Mack Defense employees, who made this possible.”

The HDTs play a vital role in construction andupkeep of infrastructure assets, including airfields, roadways, landing strips, supply facilities and motor pools.

The HDTs are spec’d with heavier-duty rear axles, all-wheel drive, increased suspension ride height and other ruggedized features to meet the unique requirements of the U.S. military.

The HDT model also features advanced technology, including ABS, modern control interfaces for user-friendly operation, and active safety systems. These modern technologies, coupled with improved sustainability, were key factors in the Army’s investment in the new HDTs. Both the HDTs and the production line at the MEC have undergone rigorous inspection by government quality auditors to ensure these mission-critical trucks exceed expectations.

Production of the HDTs began in Q1 2021,following an investment of $6.5 million to create adedicated HDT production line at the facility. Theproduction line helps fulfill the M917A3 contract, while allowing Mack Defense to produce other vehicle variants.

Mack Defense, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mack Trucks, is responsible for the

sale of heavy-duty trucks to federal- and ministerial-level customers globally. For more information, please visit www.mackdefense.com.

Posted in Army, Contracts, Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on Mack Defense Reaches Milestone with 500th U.S. Army M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck

UF PRO Wraps Up PRO’s Guide to Tracking with Rangers and K9s Campaign, Raising EUR 31,890 for Conservation Efforts

Monday, March 31st, 2025

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (26.03.2025)

UF PRO announces the successful conclusion of its Pro’s Guide to Tracking with Rangers and K9s campaign, a powerful initiative aimed at shedding light on the critical role tactical expertise plays in wildlife conservation. Through four in-depth episodes, plus exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, the campaign showcased how anti-poaching teams utilise tracking, K9 units, and advanced tactics to combat poaching in some of the most challenging terrains on Earth.

Partnering with Boris Vos, a former Royal Netherlands Marine and the founder of LEAD Conservation, UF PRO immersed viewers in the high-stakes reality of anti-poaching operations across South Africa. Through real-world demonstrations, the campaign highlighted the effectiveness of tactical tracking techniques, K9 units, and the critical synergy between rangers, technology, and local communities in preventing poaching incidents.

One of the key highlights was an episode featuring Colin Patrick, a seasoned K9 expert, who provided deep insights into the indispensable role of dogs in anti-poaching operations. Viewers saw firsthand how highly trained K9s assist in tracking poachers, searching for human scent trails, and navigating difficult terrain. Colin’s expertise shed light on the rigorous training these dogs undergo and their immense contribution to conservation efforts.

To offer a deeper understanding of the campaign’s production and the challenges of filming in the wild, UF PRO also released a behind-the-scenes episode with Boris Vos. In this special segment, Boris shared his experiences filming the series, the obstacles faced during production, and why raising awareness about poaching is more crucial than ever.

Beyond simply raising awareness, the campaign also drove direct support for conservation efforts. Through the sale of the exclusive Ranger’s Band, UF PRO and its community contributed EUR 31,890 to LEAD Conservation, which helps train and equip rangers on the frontlines of the fight against poaching. The collective effort, fueled by the overwhelming response from the tactical and outdoor communities, played a vital role in the campaign’s success. UF PRO is proud to recognise the partners who stood by them in this mission. Through their commitment—whether by purchasing wristbands or making impactful donations—they played an essential role in amplifying support for those working tirelessly to protect endangered species. Mehler Systems Group, including Mehler Protection and Lindnerhof, Trooper, and BMP were key contributors to this effort.

“This campaign was more than just an inside look at tactical tracking—it was about making a real difference. The support from the UF PRO community has been incredible, and we’re proud to stand with those risking everything to protect wildlife,” said Boris Vos. “Poaching is an ongoing battle, and every contribution helps keep rangers trained, equipped, and ready.”

Although the campaign has officially ended, the mission continues. The Ranger’s Band remains available for purchase, with 100% of proceeds still going directly to LEAD Conservation. UF PRO encourages those who want to make an impact to support the cause and help ensure that these dedicated teams can continue their vital work.

For more information on the campaign and how to contribute, visit the Pro’s Guide to Tracking with Rangers and K9s campaign page. To support the cause directly, purchase a Ranger’s Band here.

Posted in Advertiser, Fundraising, Press Release | 1 Comment »

GA-ASI Achieves EMAR/FR 145 Maintenance Organization Approval for MQ-9A and MQ-9B Platforms

Sunday, March 30th, 2025

European Military Airworthiness Regulator Approves GA-ASI Application Approval Will Make Subsequent Certifications Easier

SAN DIEGO – 20 March 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), a world leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), has received the prestigious EMAR/FR 145 Maintenance Organization Approval for component maintenance from the French Military Continuing Airworthiness Authority, DSAE. This approval underscores GA-ASI’s commitment to the highest standards of safety, compliance, and operational excellence in military aviation.

The EMAR framework is a set of regulations developed from commercial aerospace standards (FAA/EASA) that are designed to ensure airworthiness for European military aircraft. It establishes a common airworthiness framework recognized by military airworthiness authorities worldwide. EMAR/FR 145 certification authorizes maintenance organizations to perform critical maintenance tasks while ensuring strict adherence to safety, reliability, and documentation requirements.

GA-ASI’s EMAR/FR 145 approval allows the company to issue EMAR Form 1s (Return to Service forms) for components serviced by the approved maintenance organization, confirming the safety and airworthiness of the equipment. This recognition applies to GA-ASI’s maintenance activities at its Poway and Adelanto, California, facilities and covers CAT C (component maintenance) services.

“This approval is a significant achievement for GA-ASI, positioning the company to better serve international customers, especially military users of our MQ-9A and MQ-9B UAS platforms,” said Sam Richardson, GA-ASI vice president of Sustainment. “The ability to leverage the EMAR/FR 145 certification streamlines the company’s processes, reduces costs, and accelerates future airworthiness pursuits, as many future customers will recognize this certification rather than requiring a full, independent certification process.”

By obtaining EMAR/FR 145 approval, GA-ASI further demonstrates its ability to meet the stringent demands of the global defense market. The framework’s widespread recognition ensures that GA-ASI can expand operations and offer high-quality, compliant maintenance services to international customers, ultimately driving company growth in global markets.

This certification offers significant operational and financial benefits for both GA-ASI and its customers. For GA-ASI, the approval reduces future oversight costs by leveraging the DSAE Audit Team’s oversight activities, ensuring a more efficient and cost-effective certification process for future non-French EMAR customers. For customers, the EMAR/FR 145 approval provides a framework recognized internationally, offering a streamlined maintenance certification process. The recognition agreements between EMAR and non-EMAR countries allow future customers to leverage GA-ASI’s French approval, saving time and resources compared to a full certification effort.

Posted in Aviation, International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Achieves EMAR/FR 145 Maintenance Organization Approval for MQ-9A and MQ-9B Platforms

Leonardo DRS to Develop Prototype Next-Generation Weapons Control System for U.S. Army M109A7 Paladin

Sunday, March 30th, 2025

ARLINGTON, Va. — Leonardo DRS, Inc. (NASDAQ: DRS) announced today that it has received a prototype project award by the U.S. Army to modernize the Paladin Electric Servo Amplifier (PESA) electric weapon control system for the M109A7 Paladin self-propelled howitzer. The OTA award is worth $16.9 million.

The PESA is a critical technology to the operation of the M109A7. Under the project award Leonardo DRS will develop a next-generation prototype with current electrical technology to improve the producibility and maintainability of the line replaceable units and enable the continued operation of the vehicle with no degradation to current capabilities.

“Paladin is a mission critical combat system, and our agility and leading-edge capabilities ensure our U.S. Army partner has the necessary capabilities to support our warfighters for the long term,” said Denny Crumley, senior vice president and general manager of the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business unit. “We are thrilled to be providing this next generation of technology to the Army’s M109A7 Paladin combat vehicle.

Leonardo DRS is a leading designer, developer, and integrator of sophisticated electrical, electromechanical and electronic systems, subsystems, and assemblies across the U.S. military. The work on PESA is another example of providing best-of-breed technology and capability to deliver on a wide range of customer needs from electrical power, network computing, and advanced sensing.

Posted in Contracts, Fires, Industry, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on Leonardo DRS to Develop Prototype Next-Generation Weapons Control System for U.S. Army M109A7 Paladin

SK Guns Announces New Agent Eclipse AOS 1911 Pistols

Sunday, March 30th, 2025

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – March 21, 2025 – SK Guns® is proud to announce the next edition of its collaboration with Agency Arms, Stan Chen Customs and Color Casing by the famous “Doug.” The Agent Eclipse AOS 1911 is the follow-up to the Agent Firecrest AOS 1911 pistols, which sold out of all 300 limited units within days. The companies have come together again to offer the latest rendition in both 9mm and 45 ACP. In addition to para-ported and chunk-ported options, the Agent Eclipse will have three variations of the popular REACTIV™ Maxx grips.

“We received an immense amount of positive feedback following the launch of the Agent Firecrest AOS 1911,” said Simon Khiabani owner and founder of SK Guns. “Along with that feedback, we received an overwhelming amount of requests for a two-tone variation. We have listened to our loyal customers, and are proud to introduce the new Agent Eclipse. It has been a great experience working with Agency, Stan Chen and the famous ‘DOUG’, and I am excited to see these partnerships continue to grow.”

Each model in the Eclipse lineup includes the AOS optic plate, compatible with the RMR/SRO A14B footprint. The Eclipse is a two-tone model with satin Black Nitride controls, slide and barrel, the most durable finish available for a firearm. An iron sight cover plate is also provided in the same satin finish to offer versatility for shooters who prefer not to use optics.

The serrations are more aggressive than ever, and the frame and one-piece Stan Chen Customs mainspring housing and magwells are highly polished and color-cased by “DOUG”. Each firearm is equipped with Wolff reduced recoil springs specialized for the calibers, as well as XP firing pin springs. The full-size government frame provides a solid foundation for handling, while the integrated Picatinny rail allows for the attachment of various accessories.

With a 1:16 rate of twist, the stainless steel barrel finished in Black Nitride ensures accuracy and reliability, complemented by a forged carbon steel frame and slide that enhances durability. These features make the Agent Eclipse AOS pistols a standout choice for both competitive shooters and recreational users alike.

The Agent Eclipse AOS pistols are available to ship now. The para-ported variation starts at an MSRP of $1,950, while the chunk-ported configuration starts at an MSRP of $1,975. Visit www.skguns.com to learn more.

Dealers are welcome to sign up here for bulk pricing.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | Comments Off on SK Guns Announces New Agent Eclipse AOS 1911 Pistols

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 »