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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”

Posted in Advertiser, Aviation, Contracts, Helmets, Navy, Press Release | No Comments »

Safran Federal Systems Demonstrates Blacknaute Inertial Navigation System on US Army Black Hawk Following AUSA Debut

Thursday, January 22nd, 2026

ROCHESTER, NY – January 21, 2025

Safran Federal Systems, a trusted U.S. Department of Defense mission partner and leader in Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (A-PNT), announced the successful flight demonstration of its Blacknaute™ Inertial Navigation System (INS) aboard a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.

Purpose-built for multi-domain operations, Blacknaute™ delivers precise navigation in GPS-denied and electronic warfare-contested environments, fulfilling a critical need for resilient, open-architecture PNT capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains.

The live flight test confirmed Blacknaute’s ability to maintain high-accuracy inertial performance without GNSS support, validating operational readiness just days after its U.S. debut at the 2025 Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting & Exposition in Washington, D.C.

“Our demonstration onboard the Army Black Hawk showcases the tactical readiness of Blacknaute™,”said Jon Leombrone, Executive Vice President of Navigation Systems at Safran Federal Systems. “The system maintained drift of less than 0.4 nautical miles per hour over several hours—proof of its SWaP-optimized, NAVWAR-resilient design engineered for rapid deployment across the Joint Force.”

Blacknaute™ combines multiple cutting-edge technologies in a rugged, lightweight system weighing less than 16 pounds. Key features include:

• HRG Dual Core™ Technology: Safran’s patented hemispherical resonator gyro platform, fielded in more than 40,000 units and proven over 30 million operational hours across defense and aerospace applications.

• M-Code Ready GNSS Receiver: Supports secure, multi-constellation satellite navigation using military-grade M-Code signals.

• Ultra-Stable Atomic Clock: Provides highly precise timing with drift of less than one second every 30,000 years, ensuring reliable synchronization across mission systems.

• Interference Detection and Mitigation (IDM): Built-in capabilities for detecting and mitigating GPS spoofing and jamming threats, enhancing survivability in electronic warfare environments.

• Open Systems Architecture: Fully compliant with MIL-STD interfaces and TSO-C220 standards, enabling plug-and-play integration with modular open systems used across modern defense platforms.

Safran Federal Systems provides advanced, classified navigation and PNT solutions to Safran Defense & Space, Inc. (Safran DSI), accelerating innovation across multi-domain operations in support of U.S. defense programs.

For more information, visit us at BlackNaute | Air Navigation | Safran Federal Systems.

Posted in Advertiser, Army, Aviation, EW, Press Release | No Comments »

GM Defense Establishes UK Entity and Accelerates Team LionStrike Delivery Planning

Thursday, January 22nd, 2026

FARNBOROUGH, UK – GM Defense has launched GM Defense UK, creating a dedicated presence to support the UK’s defence priorities and strengthen sovereign capability.

Operating from GM’s sites in Leamington Spa and Silverstone, the new entity will lead all UK Ministry of Defence engagement and anchor GM’s wider NATO and European defence activity—boosting UK industry and export potential.

The launch comes as GM Defense intensifies its delivery and support planning for Team LionStrike, ahead of bidding for the UK’s upcoming Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) programme.

“Standing up GM Defense UK is a major milestone in our long?term commitment to the United Kingdom,” said Bradley Watters, vice president of international business development. “Team LionStrike is different because GM—backed by more than a century of engineering excellence—is directly embedded as the vehicle OEM. That level of involvement delivers real capability, efficiency and long?term assurance for the UK Armed Forces. Establishing a UK business is essential to providing that through?life support.”

The announcement aligns with the International Armoured Vehicles conference and follows the UK MoD’s recent LMV Industry Day. It builds on a strong year of momentum for Team LionStrike, including the debut of GM Defense’s General Support Utility Platform (GSUP) at DSEI and a UK Ride & Drive event highlighting four proven COTS light and utility vehicles.

Team LionStrike—composed of GM Defense with NP Aerospace, BAE Systems, and multiple UK-based subject matter experts—aims to deliver a modern, scalable mobility solution for the British Army while supporting the Land Industrial Strategy. The team is building a sustainable UK supply chain, backed by GM’s global parts distribution network, the new UK hub, and the experience of NP Aerospace and BAE Systems in sustaining the UK Military.

“We are fully committed to the UK LMV programme and to investing in British industry and communities. GM Defense UK strengthens our ability to fully support Team LionStrike and deliver exactly what the British Army needs—now and for decades to come,” Watters added.

Posted in International, Mobility, Press Release | No Comments »

DroneShield Releases Q1 2026 Software Updates

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026

21 January 2026 – DroneShield, a global leader in counter-drone technology, today announced the release of its Q1 2026 software updates notably across the DroneSentry-C2, DroneSentry-C2 Enterprise, and RfPatrol-Plugin, alongside firmware updates for detection and disruption devices

The Q1 2026 release is designed to simplify operations, reduce cognitive load, and help operators make faster, more confident decisions when managing drone threats across military, public safety, and critical infrastructure environments.

A key focus of this update is improved system interoperability and sensor coordination of DroneShield’s DroneSentryecosystem. Expanded multi-sensor support and enhancements to SensorFusion improve detection accuracy and tracking reliability, including for mobile and on-the-move deployments. These changes help operators maintain clearer situational awareness in complex and cluttered airspace.

The RfPatrol-Plugin received a significant upgrade, enabling drone detection and tracking data to be shared across TAK networks when connected to DroneShield systems. Operators can now view additional contextual information, including historic movement paths, supporting better coordination and faster response.

For organizations operating multiple protected sites, DroneSentry-C2 Enterprise now enables more active command-level control. In addition to monitoring, authorized operators can manually control disruptor engagement and camera pan-tilt-zoom functions at individual sites, improving visibility and reducing response times during time-critical incidents.

Disruption workflows have also been refined to support more controlled and proportional responses. Operators can target specific detected drones, while clearer, icon-based system status indicators provide immediate visibility into disruptor state, allowing operators to act quickly and decisively.

DroneSentry-C2 performance and usability have been further enhanced through updates to mapping and interface workflows. Improvements include reduced latency, smoother interaction, simplified controls, and clearer visual cues, all aimed at supporting faster interpretation and lower operator workload during live operations.

Together, these Q1 2026 updates reinforce DroneShield’s focus on operational clarity, reliability, and real-world usability – ensuring operators are equipped to respond with confidence as drone threats continue to evolve.

Posted in C-UAS, Press Release | Comments Off on DroneShield Releases Q1 2026 Software Updates

Streamlight Launches the PolyTac 1X at SHOT Show 2026

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026

Handheld Flashlight Offers Professional Tactical Performance, Polymer Durability and Multi-Fuel Flexibility

EAGLEVILLE, PA, January 21, 2026 – Streamlight®, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, announced the launch of the PolyTac® 1X, a compact, multi-fuel tactical flashlight engineered for professional performance across multiple environments. The new PolyTac 1X will debut at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas, where attendees can see it in person at Streamlight’s Booth #11468.

The PolyTac 1X has a rugged polymer body, designed with a rocky stipple grip texture for secure handling, delivering dependable illumination in conditions where metal lights are less desirable. Ideal for law enforcement, military, industrial professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyday carry (EDC) users alike, the light is powered by a Streamlight SL-B9® USB-rechargeable battery pack, a CR123A lithium battery, or an AA alkaline or lithium battery. Power, distance and run time vary based on battery type:

SL-B9 USB Battery Pack

Output: 500 lumens on High; 40 lumens on Low

Run Time: 1 hour on High; 8 hours on Low

Distance: 268 meters on High; 63 meters on Low

Intensity: 18,000 candela on High; 1,000 candela on Low

Strobe Run Time: 1.75 hours

CR123A Lithium Battery

Output: 350 lumens on High; 40 lumens on Low

Run Time: 1.5 hours on High; 14 hours on Low

Distance: 219 meters on High; 63 meters on Low

Intensity: 12,000 candela on High; 1,000 candela on Low

Strobe Run Time: 2.25 hours

AA Battery

Output: 150 lumens on High; 40 lumens on Low

Run Time: 5 hours on High; 14 hours on Low

Distance: 141 meters on High; 63 meters on Low

Intensity: 5,000 candela on High; 1,000 candela on Low

Strobe Run Time: 7 hours

“The PolyTac 1X was driven by military demand for a compact, dependable light that offers flexibility without unnecessary complexity,” said Michael F. Dineen, Streamlight President. “By combining polymer durability, multi-fuel power options, and professional-grade performance, the PolyTac 1X delivers mission-ready reliability without compromise.”

The PolyTac 1X features a high-power white LED housed behind a BOROFLOAT® impact-resistant glass lens. A TEN-TAP® programmable tactical tail switch allows users to select from High/Strobe/Low, High-Only, or Low/High programs. A removable two-way pocket clipsupports multiple carry options.

Built for tough environments, the PolyTac 1X is IPX7-rated, waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes, impact resistant to 3 meters, and Trade Agreement Act (TAA) compliant, making it well-suited for military and professional use.

The PolyTac 1X measures 4.71 inches in length, with a 1.00-inch body diameter, 1.22-inch head diameter and 1.35 major diameter. It weighs between 2.93 and 3.20 ounces, depending on battery type. Available in Black or Yellow, the PolyTac 1X and PolyTac 1X USB have MSRPs of $80.00 and $89.00, respectively, and are backed by Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty. For more information, visit www.streamlight.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Lights, Press Release, SHOT Show | No Comments »

Blue Force Gear Further Shatters Conventional Gear Design

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026

LAS VEGAS, NV. – Blue Force Gear, Inc., the world leader in load carriage equipment innovation, unveils at the 2026 NSSF SHOT Show a collection of products that continue to challenge currently set standards. From a revolutionary integrated battle belt climbing system to signature-reduction and life-saving gear, BFG continues to engineer solutions that professionals didn’t know they needed, until now. SHOT Show attendees can explore the following cutting-edge gear, as well as the rest of Blue Force Gear’s legendary product line, at BFG’s booth #20405 where specialists will demonstrate their unique capabilities.

Integrated Stealth Harness (ISH™): From Climber to Gunfighter in Seconds

The patented ISH Harness combines a gun belt, climbing harness, tourniquet, and travel restraint allinto one lightweight, certified system rated to hold over 3,000 pounds. Modular, removable leg loops deploy in seconds and feature windlass points for emergency tourniquet application or rappelling friction hitches. The ISH Harness features BFG’s signature MOLLEminus platform and anatomical curve design for uncompromising comfort on the ground or at height.The ISH Harness is UIAA and EU Certified as a Type C Mountaineering Harness.

UPL MR Pouch: Maximum Versatility, Minimal Footprint

This compact pouch securely organizes everything from 40mm grenades and CS Spray to tourniquets and spare mags in just 2″ of MOLLE space. Adjustable flaps accommodate items from 4″ to 7″ in height, while the integrated BLIP pull tab ensures quick access in any conditions. Built with ULTRACOMP laminate, the MR Pouch reduces weight by up to 60% without sacrificing durability.

MTKN!® Nano LE: Life-Saving Capacity in a Compact Package

Despite its streamlined design, the Nano LE matches the capacity of the Micro Trauma Kit NOW!, holding QuickClot Gauze, Mini Compression Dressing, Hypothermia Blanket, and more depending on the fill level chosen. Two integrated sidecar pouches secure NARCAN Nasal Spray and a tourniquet, while single-hand BLIP pull tab access ensures rapid and consistent deployment. The Nano LE mountshorizontally or vertically on MOLLE or pants belts for ultimate flexibility.

BNVD Pouch & Slipcover: Signature Management and Convenience

Born from GWOT lessons learned, BFG’s BNVD Slipcover addresses a critical operational need: signature reduction. The lightweight Slipcover masks the distinctive BNVD shape with a shaggy design built out of nylon spandex while also providing natural face-shading. The perfect companion to the Slipcover, the BNVD Pouch delivers padded protection with a Fastex Buckle closure and MOLLE-compatible Helium Whisper pouch attachment. Together, they provide seamless protection from arms room storage to deployment.

For more information about Blue Force Gear or any of their product offerings, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

About Blue Force Gear®

Blue Force Gear designs the best weapon slings and leads the lightweight load carriage equipment revolution with Ten-Speed multi-use pouches, MOLLEminus platforms, and the patented Helium Whisper attachment system. Their proprietaryULTRACOMP high-performance coated fabric laminate material, unrivaled innovation, and attention to detail set Blue Force Gear apart from others in the tactical equipment industry. Blue Force Gear is a Great Place to Work Certified Company. For more information, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, Medical, Mountaineering, Press Release | No Comments »

Mission First Tactical Guardian Duty Holster Earns NTOA Recommendation

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026

Horsham, PA – (January 19th, 2026) – Mission First Tactical(MFT) manufacturers of state-of-the-art, USA made rifle/carbine accessories and holsters, is proud to announce they have earned the prestigious National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) members testing approval and recommendation for the MFT Guardian Duty Holster.

We are incredibly honored and humbled by this recognition, “said Bobby McGee Exec. Vice President Product Development & Innovation, Mission First Tactical. “We push the limits of retention by utilizing our instinctive locking system’s full containment technology. It maximizes strength and durability using magnetic and aerospace carbon fiber rod technology. “McGee goes on to say, “We designed and created a system that is safer, faster, and lighter for the frontliners that demand that out of their safety equipment. We proudly stand behind and support all officers, first responders, US Military and those who choose to run to, instead of from, critical situations.”

The NTOA Member Tested and Recommended Program has tested more than 3,000 products in real-world situations, since 2003, and is regarded by many law enforcement agencies as paramount to their product purchasing decisions.

Too many duty holsters sacrifice either speed or security, putting lives at risk. The MFT Guardian Duty Holster eliminates the need for that compromise, without impeding a master grip. This revolutionary design reduces the risks of gun grabs, foreign object and finger ingress, and optic bobble when drawing. The instinctive locking system and automatic optic hood reset offer consistent reholstering, giving officers the confidence they need while on duty. Backed by over 25 years of tactical experience and real-world feedback, it’s built for professionals who demand rapid access and reliable retention for every shift and every draw.

Posted in Advertiser, Holsters, Press Release | No Comments »

FN Expands 502 Series with California Compliant Offering

Wednesday, January 21st, 2026

(McLean, VA — January 20, 2026) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce the expansion of its .22LR offerings with the all-new California compliant version of the FN 502® MRD. Featuring a 10-round magazine and California compliant magazine disconnect, the new version of the FN 502 MRD meets requirements for sale in the Golden State and is officially on the roster for purchase.

Originally launched in 2021, the FN 502 lineup includes the FN 502 Tactical, the FN 502 MRD and now the California-compliant version of the FN 502 MRD. The series is purpose-built for all-day range days. It’s designed with a best-in-class, hammer-fired trigger for consistent accuracy; an industry-first, optics-ready slide; and proven, textured grip for complete control.

“The FN 502 platform was designed to give shooters a professional range-day shooting experience in a rimfire pistol, and now we have extended that opportunity to California residents,” said Dan Hines, Vice President Commercial and Law Enforcement for FN America. “The FN 502 delivers FN quality and reliability in a rimfire pistol that is great for training, plus cost-effective and fun to shoot.”

The hammer-fired FN 502, with its best-in-class single-action trigger, performs like a robust-style target pistol, delivering fast, accurate rounds on target with more versatility than any other rimfire on the market. It offers superior ergonomics inspired by the grip profile of the FN 509 family of pistols and delivers the perfect balance between slide and frame along with fully ambidextrous controls.

The FN 502 MRD shares the same optics mounting system as the Tactical model that was inspired by FN’s patented Low-Profile Optics-Mounting System™. Compatible with multiple micro red dot optics, users are able to swap out the MRD insert plates with integrated sights depending on their optic of choice and be ready for a fun-filled range day within minutes.

“When we first started the development of the FN 502 platform, our goal was to up the ante for quality and versatility in a new rimfire pistol, applying our expertise in factory milled optics-ready slides and professional-quality triggers,” said Chris Johnson, Senior Product Manager for Pistols for FN America. “With the FN 502 MRD we have a trustworthy, range ready .22LR pistol that’s perfect for training and now available for purchase in California.”

The FN 502 MRD ships with two 10-round flush-fit magazines along with the necessary plates to mount compatible micro red dot optics. Due to its similarity in muzzle and trigger guard dimensions to the FN 509, the FN 502 MRD will fit in most FN 509 holsters.

The pistol will debut in the FN Booth (Booth 12805) at the 2026 NSSF SHOT Show, January 20–23 in Las Vegas. To discover more about the California compliant version of the FN 502 MRD, please visit fnamerica.com/pistols/fn-502-series. To purchase any FN firearms, find an FN dealer near you at fnamerica.com/find-a-dealer.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | No Comments »