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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.

Posted in Aviation, International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Completes First Flight of Belgium’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian

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

Cubic Digital Intelligence Unveils Industry-Leading Vector Tile Delivery for TAK Users

Wednesday, March 26th, 2025

Fast, interactive and data-rich mapping for real-time mission intelligence

SAN DIEGO, March 24, 2025 – Cubic Digital Intelligence (CDI), a leader in geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) and advanced full-motion video (FMV) solutions, announces the launch of its vector tile delivery system for the Tactical Assault Kit (TAK) ecosystem.

CDI’s new platform, delivered through the TAKTICS dissemination system, streamlines access to vector tiles from multiple vendors, while providing direct access to mission-critical data. The capability ensures rapid, seamless and scalable geospatial data dissemination for TAK users worldwide, allowing them to quickly locate, retrieve and download the information they need with unparalleled speed and efficiency.

“Our capability represents a major leap forward in delivering next-generation geospatial intelligence to TAK users,” said Paul Sartorius, VP & General Manager at Cubic Digital Intelligence. “We deliver fast, accurate and interactive data visualization, from sensor-to-shooter, enabling warfighters and intelligence professionals to make decisions anywhere, anytime.”

Key Benefits:

Seamless TAK Integration – Built for interoperability, the platform delivers instant access to vector tiles without time-intensive conversions or raster-based overlays.

Optimized for Performance – Unlike traditional hybrid tile approaches, the client-side rendered vectors reduce processing loads while delivering high-fidelity, interactive maps in both 2D and 3D TAK clients.

Scalable and Future-Proof – Supporting multi-vendor data sources, the platform ensures users always have access to the most up-to-date and relevant geospatial information, with no need for reprocessing or additional hardware investments.

Advancing Mission-Critical Geospatial Solutions

Vector tile solutions further enhance our commitment to delivering superior GEOINT dissemination tools that empower defense and intelligence operators with real-time, high-performance geospatial data. By eliminating the inefficiencies of burnt-in rasterization, CDI ensures TAK users can access, interact with and manipulate geospatial intelligence with unprecedented flexibility and clarity.

To learn more: Cubic Digital Intelligence.

Posted in Press Release, TAK | Comments Off on Cubic Digital Intelligence Unveils Industry-Leading Vector Tile Delivery for TAK Users

SpearUAV Announces Completion of a Significant Funding Round Led by Deep Insight Venture Fund

Tuesday, March 25th, 2025

Investment to support the expansion of production capabilities in Israel and future global operations

24 March 2025, Israel – SpearUAV, a leading developer of autonomous, AI-based encapsulated loitering combat systems, announces the successful completion of a significant funding round led by Deep Insight venture fund. The round also included participation from existingand new private investors, marking a major milestone in the company’s continued growth.

This investment follows a period of accelerated expansion, with SpearUAV securing major defense contracts and scaling its operations to meet increasing global demand. The funding will enable the company to establish a new production line in Israel, while also supporting future expansion plans in the United States, including the eventual launch of a dedicated production facility.

“SpearUAV has demonstrated an exceptional ability to address evolving operational needs with its cutting-edge technology,” said Dr. Eyal Kishon, Chairman of DeepInsight “At Deep Insight, we specialize in elevating technology companies, and we recognize that SpearUAV possesses a unique combination of foundational capabilities, innovative technologies, and a disruptive market approach that sets it apart from existing solutions. We are excited to support SpearUAV’s continued innovation and global expansion and confident that our partnership will producesignificant success in the defense sector.”

“SpearUAV has experienced rapid growth over the past year, driven by increased demand for our cutting-edge VIPER family of loitering weapon systems supporting combat vehicles, infantry forces, submarines and naval vessels,” said Yiftach Kleinman, CEO of SpearUAV. “Since the company was founded by Gadi Kuperman, Spear has attracted interest from high-profile private investors and strategic investors. The currentinvestment round, led by Deep Insight, a sophisticated venture fund, which is led by highly experienced leadership, reflects the confidence of our partners in our technology and vision. Expanding our production capabilities in Israel is a critical step to meeting global demand, and we are also laying the groundwork for future operations in the U.S. to further strengthen our international presence and partnerships. We are proud to be part of Deep Insight’s portfolio.”

For more information, please visit www.spearuav.com.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on SpearUAV Announces Completion of a Significant Funding Round Led by Deep Insight Venture Fund