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Defence Investment Agency Awards Contract to Replace Current Canadian Armed Forces Assault Rifles

Thursday, March 19th, 2026

March 19, 2026 – Kitchener, Ontario       

The Government of Canada is committed to rebuilding, rearming and reinvesting in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) to ensure they receive the equipment they need to achieve mission success and protect Canadians.

Today, the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement), and the Minister of National Defence, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, announced that the Defence Investment Agency has awarded a contract to Colt Canada of Kitchener, Ontario, to acquire up to 65,402 assault rifle systems under the Canadian Modular Assault Rifle (CMAR) initiative. By awarding this contract to Colt Canada, the Government of Canada is reinforcing the recently announced Defence Industrial Strategy and its commitment to invest in Canadian innovation.

The CMAR project will be delivered through 2 phases:

Phase 1 includes procuring 30,000 General Service (GS) rifles over a three-year period. The estimated value of this initial phase is approximately $307 million, including applicable taxes.

Phase 2, which is expected to begin in year four under an optional provision, will include procuring the remaining 19,207 GS rifles, 16,195 Full Spectrum (FS) rifles, as well as associated ancillaries.

This contract will provide a modern replacement for the current C7/C8 assault rifle fleet, which has been in service for more than 35 years. The new rifles will enhance the awareness, protection, and reliability of deployed CAF members. The project also includes system integration and engineering support.

The investment will bolster Canada’s defence industrial base for years to come, creating good?paying jobs and contributing roughly $10 million annually to Canada’s GDP over the next five years. Colt Canada’s commitment to include at least 80% Canadian content will also generate opportunities for suppliers across the country. Further economic benefits are expected under the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy, which ensures that defence procurements generate long?term, high?value investments in Canada.

This contract is part of the first wave of high-priority defence procurements to be implemented by the Defence Investment Agency. The Agency play a central role in implementing Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy by engaging industry earlier in the procurement process, supporting innovation and aligning procurement strategies with long-term military and industrial priorities.

Together, the Defence Investment Agency and the Defence Industrial Strategy are making generational investments in Canada’s defence ecosystem—transforming how Canada equips its military, strengthening domestic supply chains, and ensuring the Canadian Armed Forces have the equipment they need to keep Canada safe and sovereign.

To replace the current service rifle, the DIA made a deliberate decision to advance CMAR through a direct acquisition for asset replacement, and advanced the procurement using a Risk?Based Approach (RBA). These actions reflect Canada’s commitment to streamlining processes and accelerating the delivery of equipment to the CAF. This investment supports Canada’s efforts to meet its NATO defence spending targets, while ensuring the CAF has the modern equipment needed to respond to evolving operational demands. 

“Providing modern, reliable capabilities to the Canadian Armed Forces is central to the Defence Investment Agency’s mission, and our streamlined approach will deliver this capability to our troops faster. This contract with Colt Canada advances Canada’s new Defence Industrial Strategy by strengthening domestic production, creating good?paying jobs, and growing our economy. By investing in advanced systems and Canadian expertise, we are ensuring our Forces remain ready for the challenges ahead while building a stronger, more resilient defence industry at home.”

The Honourable Stephen Fuhr
Secretary of State (Defence Procurement)

“Today’s announcement reflects our government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the Canadian Armed Forces have the capabilities they need to protect Canadians and contribute to global security. The Canadian Modular Assault Rifle project is an important step in modernizing the equipment our service members rely on every day. By investing in modern, reliable tools and working with a trusted Canadian partner, we are supporting the operational readiness of our Armed Forces while strengthening Canada’s defence industry and the skilled workforce behind it.“

The Honourable David J. McGuinty
Minister of National Defence

“Today’s announcement is a win for Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces. Rifles remain foundational to soldier effectiveness in the field, and this development brings over 40 years of technology evolution to Canada’s fighting forces. This represents tangible progress, and a clear example of how we can move with greater agility to bring modern, reliable equipment to soldiers. It is about delivering the Army Canada needs, today, and into the future.”

Lieutenant-General M.C. Wright
Commander Canadian Army

On February 17, 2026, the Prime Minister launched Canada’s first Defence Industrial Strategy to transform our defence industries by prioritising Canadian suppliers and materials, investing in Canadian innovation and commercialisation, and streamlining procurement to give businesses consistent and predictable demand. 

On October 2, 2025, the Prime Minister announced the creation of the Defence Investment Agency. This new special operating agency was established to strengthen Canada’s defence procurement system. It marks a major advancement in modernizing the process, aimed at rebuilding, rearming, and reinvesting in the Canadian Armed Forces to address evolving global threats and meet operational requirements.

The newly established Defence Investment Agency is modernizing defence procurement for the Government of Canada. The Agency is accelerating mission-critical equipment delivery to the CAF by centralizing expertise and streamlining decisions. 

Under this contract, up to 65,402 modern assault rifles will be delivered: 16,195 will be the FS variant, while the remaining 49,207 will be the GS variant. 

The FS variant is designed for front-line combat roles. It is optimized for offensive operations in urban and open terrain, and it has advanced features for soldiers in Regular Infantry units. The GS variant is intended for broader use across the CAF. It provides reliable personal protection and deterrence for personnel who are not in primary combat roles. 

The ammunition to be produced as part of the CMAR initiative will also be made in Canada.

The CMAR contract was advanced under a Risk?Based Approach (RBA), through which a procurement is managed according to its level of complexity and risk . This approach ensures that procurements receive Treasury Board (TB) approvals and oversight appropriate to their complexity, enabling timely delivery for the CAF by streamlining processes.

The Munitions Supply Program, established in 1974, ensures that the CAF have reliable sources of supply in Canada for ammunition, small arms and related equipment. Equipment is purchased from designated domestic facilities that serve as strategic sources of supply and centres of excellence. The MSP supports the development of a competitive Canadian defence industry, creating long-term economic benefits and thousands of jobs across the country.

America’s Most Advanced Mobile Tactical Cannon, SIGMA, on Display at AUSA Global Force in Huntsville, Alabama

Thursday, March 19th, 2026

The ONLY fielded, wheeled howitzer, made in the U.S.A. that delivers revolutionary 360-degree firing, mobility, lethality, and survivability 

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – March 18, 2026?– SIGMA, Elbit Systems of America’s (Elbit America) fielded offering for the United States Army’s Self-Propelled Howitzer Modernization program will be on rare display at the AUSA Global Force Symposium and Exhibition in Huntsville, Alabama, March 24-26, 2026. 

Built in Charleston, South Carolina, SIGMA stands alone as the only self-propelled wheeled howitzer manufactured in the U.S. With advanced maneuverability, SIGMA’s 10×10 platform successfully moves with brigade combat teams across complex terrain and can shoot and scoot in less than 60 seconds.

Delivering exclusive 360-degree firing, SIGMA is equipped with an automated 155mm turret and is the only self-propelled wheeled cannon that can fire all variations of 155mm munitions in the U.S. Army’s arsenal. In the field, SIGMA serves with a 40-round onboard magazine and can shoot an astounding eight rounds per minute – all while keeping its three-person crew well protected in the armored cab.  

“SIGMA was designed to deliver real overmatch, so Soldiers can fight, survive, and win in the most contested environments,” said Luke Savoie, President and CEO of Elbit America. “This platform provides the might and modernization our U.S. Army artillery formations demand. SIGMA is built for Warriors, made with American grit, and it’s ready now.”  

In partnership with Oshkosh Defense, providers of the artillery system’s vehicle base, Elbit America’s SIGMA will be on display in Oshkosh’s booth, 411, just across the aisle from Elbit America in booth 532. Both are inside the South Hall of the Von Braun Center. The exhibit hall is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 24-25, and 9 a.m. to noon on March 26.  

Experience firsthand what American-made artillery dominance looks like with Elbit America’s SIGMA Mobile Tactical Cannon.

www.elbitamerica.com/sigma

Icon Defense Unveils Monolithic Upper Receiver Systems After a Year of Anticipation

Thursday, March 19th, 2026

The Monolithic platform sets a new industry benchmark with its advanced one-piece construction, delivering unmatched rigidity and precision alignment for modern rifle builders.

(Tumwater, WA] — [March 20, 2026) – Icon Defense today announced the official release of its highly anticipated Monolithic Upper Receiver Systems, first unveiled at SHOT Show 2025. Engineered for performance-driven shooters and builders, the new lineup introduces a fully integrated, one-piece design that enhances strength, precision, and reliability across AR-15 platforms.

Precision-machined from billet aluminum, each monolithic upper combines the receiver and handguard into a continuous structure. This design eliminates traditional flex points, resulting in exceptional rigidity, improved rail alignment, and consistent shot-to-shot performance.

“Monolithic construction represents a significant step forward in platform stability and performance,” said Dave Roberts of Icon Defense. “These uppers were designed for shooters who demand the highest level of consistency and durability from their equipment.”

Key Benefits

Enhanced Rigidity: One-piece construction eliminates movement between receiver and handguard.
Improved Alignment: Continuous top rail ensures precise mounting for optics and accessories.
Precision Machining: Billet aluminum construction for long-term durability.
Integrated Design: Streamlined profile optimized for modern rifle configurations.

Specifications

Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum.
Finish: Type III Hard Coat Anodizing.
Compatibility: Compatible with all standard AR-15 barrels.

Available Configurations:

• 5.56 M-LOK – 10.75.”
• A2 – 7.25”
• Quad Rail – 10.75” (More Lengths coming soon)

Included Components

• Titanium Monolithic Barrel Nut.
• Icon Defense Gas Block.
• Monolithic Barrel Nut Tube Wrench.
• Dust Cover Door Pin.
• Drive Lock Wrench.
• Hard Plastic Case.

The Icon Defense Monolithic Upper Receiver Systems are proudly manufactured in the United States and are available now.

For more information or to purchase, visit:
killer-innovations.com/shop/icon-defense-billet-monolithic-collection

Orbit Unveils MPT40: A New Standard for Compact, High-Performance, Combat Ready SATCOM

Wednesday, March 18th, 2026

Multi-platform terminal designed for vehicles, small vessels and manoeuvring forces, combining minimal footprint, high performance and cost efficiency

SATELLITE 2026, March 23-26, Walter E. Washington Convention Center // Washington, DC, booth #1925

March 17, 2026 Orbit Communication Systems Ltd., a leading provider of airborne communications management systems, broadband land, maritime and airborne SATCOM terminals, and ground station solutions, is launching the MPT40 Multi-Platform SATCOM Terminal, a compact, lightweight and cost-effective satellite communication system designed to deliver high performance across diverse military operational environments. The new terminal provides forces with a flexible communication capability that can be deployed across multiple platforms while maintaining reliable, resilient connectivity.

Designed for true operational versatility in a GNSS denied environment, the MPT40 can be installed on military vehicles, small naval vessels or deployed by maneuvering ground forces operating in the field. The same system can be easily transferred between platforms, enabling operational flexibility and simplifying logistics while ensuring mission continuity.

With a particularly low footprint of 50×50 cm (20″x20″)- the terminal is ideally suited for armored vehicles and space-constrained tactical platforms where profile, weight and available space are critical operational considerations. The system is lightweight, easily disassembled and rapidly deployable, supporting quick field setup when mobility and responsiveness are essential.

The MPT40 supports multi-orbit satellite constellations including GEO, MEO, HEO and LEO, delivering reliable broadband connectivity anytime, anywhere. Its advanced design ensures strong performance across all elevation angles, maintaining stable communication links for command-and-control, ISR and other mission-critical applications even in challenging operational environments.

The system complies with stringent Military Standards (810H & 461G), supports operation with virtually any modem, features electronically controlled polarization switching and incorporates a single-LRU Combat Proven architecture — an important advantage particularly for rapid installation, maintenance and operational support.

By combining compact size, high performance and cost efficiency in a single terminal, the MPT40 provides armed forces with a practical, flexible SATCOM solution suited for modern multi-domain operations.

Daniel Eshchar, CEO of Orbit, commented: “We identified a clear operational need among maneuvering forces for one versatile SATCOM system capable of supporting multiple missions and platforms. The MPT40 was designed to answer that need — delivering flexibility, strong performance and reliable connectivity in a compact solution that can move with the force and adapt to evolving operational requirements.”

University of Nebraska’s NSRI Awarded $500 million Contract to Accelerate Warfighter-Ready Solutions

Wednesday, March 18th, 2026

IDIQ contract continues NSRI, USSTRATCOM trusted partnership for deterrence, defense R&D

OMAHA, Neb., March 17, 2026 — The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) at the University of Nebraska (NU) has received a $500 million indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract from U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) to deliver innovative research and development solutions that keep U.S. forces safe and maintain America’s technological edge through rapid-response research capabilities.

With this contract, NSRI also retains its designation from the U.S. Department of War (DOW) as a University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), sponsored by USSTRATCOM and affiliated with NU. There are only 15 UARCs in the country.

While not a direct funding commitment, an IDIQ establishes that an organization has demonstrated capability and has been vetted, enabling government agencies to rapidly issue funded task orders for specific research without lengthy procurement processes.

“This IDIQ represents far more than a contracting mechanism — it’s a vote of confidence in the institute’s continued and future execution of critical research to meet national defense requirements,” said Maj. Gen., USAF (Ret.) Rick Evans, NSRI executive director. “With emerging threats such as electromagnetic warfare and engineered pathogens evolving at an unprecedented pace, the DOW is accelerating critical research from concept to capability. This award expands the opportunity for NSRI and the University of Nebraska to meet the demand signal of the Department with proven flexibility, innovation and speed.”

Since it was established in 2012, NSRI has delivered leading academic research and critical tools across two DOW missions — strategic deterrence and countering weapons of mass destruction. Its research portfolio spans the threat spectrum and crosses multiple domains. The institute has provided research, technology, product and strategy development, training, exercises and subject matter expertise to more than 50 federal and state government sponsors, generating hundreds of products, many of which are now in the hands of defense operators and decision makers.

“Today’s evolving national security threats mean we need mission-critical research solutions faster than ever,” said U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, chair of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces. “I couldn’t be more proud of world-class expertise provided by University of Nebraska’s NSRI, and I look forward to seeing how U.S. Strategic Command and federal agencies will utilize this trusted strategic research organization.”

The new contract, which consists of a five-year base period and a five-year option period, is the largest in the history of the University of Nebraska System, and the fourth IDIQ NSRI has received from USSTRATCOM — in addition to $84 million in 2012, $92 million in 2018 and $107 million in 2020.

Recent initiatives funded by the previous contracts include:

Electromagnetic operations analysis across the Joint Force: Rigorous technical reports to help draw precise, accurate and relevant conclusions regarding the performance of platforms, systems, tactics, techniques and procedures.

Acute radiation syndrome (ARS) prophylactic: Development of a first-of-its-kind therapeutic to help protect U.S. troops entering environments with high levels of radiation.

Infectious aerosol risk study: Findings and conclusions from the study demonstrated how the Navy and Military Sealift Command protect medical staff and patients from aerosolized pathogens on the only two hospital ships in the fleet.

Emergent gamma radiation technologies study: Assessment to help the DOW leverage existing and next-generation capabilities for shielding from and delivering medical countermeasures against gamma radiation effects.

CBRN assessments, readiness and training frameworks and exercises: Comprehensive chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) solutions to support U.S. and allied partners.

“Defending the American homeland requires the best minds working on our most pressing challenges,” said Congressman Don Bacon. “This IDIQ vehicle ensures NSRI, and the University of Nebraska’s four campuses, can rapidly deploy leading research towards nuclear deterrence challenges and emerging technologies. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I’m pleased that Nebraska continues leading the way in translating academic innovation into operational defense capabilities that protect American lives.”

To accomplish its many efforts, NSRI’s team of experienced scientists collaborates with hundreds of researchers and students across the four NU campuses, including an academic medical center in Omaha and a Big Ten Academic Alliance institution in Lincoln, as well as other national premier academic and research institutions. These partnerships demonstrate in real time the UARC mission — connect university innovation with military requirements to deliver operational capabilities at the speed of relevance.

The specialized expertise NU faculty and student researchers provide to the DOW is backed by a comprehensive, four-campus state-wide research infrastructure. Facilities and centers across NU providing unique expertise and instrumentation include but are not limited to:

Biological Processing Development Facility, University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL)

Biomechanics Research Building, University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO)

Cyber-Physical Networking Lab, UNL

Global Center for Health Security, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC)

iExcel, UNMC

Midwest Roadside Safety Facility, UNL

National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center, UNO

Nebraska Biocontainment Unit, UNMC

Nebraska Drug Discovery & Development Pipeline, NU

Nebraska Intelligent Mobile Unmanned Systems Lab, UNL

“This new contract continues our immediate national impact, and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity,” said NU President Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold. “Our infrastructure, combined with faculty who’ve spent decades supporting military missions and students eager to serve, creates a powerful force: a university system where academic excellence meets operational urgency to address our nation’s most critical defense needs.”

nsri.nebraska.edu

Rheinmetall Nordic Mortar Day: Rheinmetall Presents the Capabilities of the Next Generation of European Mortars

Wednesday, March 18th, 2026

Rheinmetall has once again demonstrated its expertise in the future of indirect fire weapon systems. In winter 2026, its subsidiary Rheinmetall Nordic hosted the Rheinmetall Nordic Mortar Day. In front of high-ranking representatives of armed forces, authorities and industry partners from Norway, Sweden, Finland, the Netherlands and Germany, the company presented the latest generation of high-performance European mortar systems in a live demonstration. The focus was on the 120 mm Ragnarok mortar system and the newly developed Mortar Mission Module. This is a European, scalable solution designed to have a decisive impact on the battlefield through its speed, precision, reliability and affordability.

The Ragnarok Mortar Mission Module will provide users with true shoot/scoot capability allowing users to leave the firing position immediately after the last round is fire. The system is designed for high flexibility through its platform and barrel independence.

The live fire demonstration took place in Rena, Norway. Weather conditions were adverse, with double-digit sub-zero temperatures and high humidity. During the demonstration, the Mortar Mission Module integrated in a HX truck demonstrated its high accuracy and rapid response capability. Designed for speed and simplicity, the system can be seamlessly integrated into existing and future platforms, enabling European armed forces to enhance their capabilities easily and without significant logistical effort.

The demonstration underscored the growing importance of European cooperation in strengthening collective defence. In light of increasing geopolitical pressure and growing demand for robust capabilities on the battlefield, Rheinmetall Nordic emphasised the urgency of delivering effective, user-oriented systems that enable nations to act quickly and decisively.

‘Today’s security environment requires us to act in a targeted manner,’ said Morten Kjorum, CEO of Rheinmetall Nordic. ‘Europe’s strategic autonomy depends on providing solutions that maximise operational impact while being practical, cost-effective and rapidly deployable. The Mortar Mission Module is the result of close collaboration between Rheinmetall and European industry partners and users, based on transparency, shared goals and technological excellence.’

‘Together we are stronger,’ added Kjorum. ‘Our goal is clear: we want to deliver systems that meet the operational requirements of European soldiers at the speed that the current situation demands.’

With its scalable production presence worldwide, Rheinmetall is ready to meet the growing demand for advanced infirect fire capabilities while ensuring a resilient, sovereign supply chain. 

High Speed Gear Awarded United States Army Contract to Manufacture Advanced Drone Pouches

Wednesday, March 18th, 2026

SWANSBORO, NC – March 17, 2026, High Speed Gear, a leader in American-made tactical load-carrying solutions, proudly announces it has been awarded a contract by the United States Army to produce specialized drone pouches designed to support modern unmanned aerial system (UAS) operations.

This contract comes as the Army accelerates the transition of frontline-inspired innovations into operational capability. Modular drone case systems, first developed by Soldiers through the XVIII Airborne Corps’ Dragon’s Lair innovation pipeline, are moving rapidly from experimentation to fielding under the Army’s streamlined procurement model.

Initial development was supported by the Airborne Innovation Lab, a collaboration between the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities DevelopmentCommand Army Research Laboratory and the Civil-Military Innovation Institute, which enables tactical experimentation and rapid prototyping with operational units to help turn Soldier-driven ideas into deployable solutions.

High Speed Gear’s drone pouches will serve as a trusted platform for securingand protecting small UAS assets across Army units, providing rugged, durable, and adaptable carrying solutions optimized for airborne and dismounted missions. Built with the same performance-driven philosophy that defines the HSGI brand, these pouches will enhance operational readiness and soldier efficiency on today’s dynamic battlefield.

Kip Guyon, CEO of High Speed Gear and former U.S. Army Officer, commented: “Supporting and equipping the United States Army is an honor, a privilege, and a responsibility we take seriously. Our team is dedicated to delivering rugged, dependable solutions that enhance readiness and protect the warfighters who protect all of us.

High Speed Gear looks forward to working closely with Army acquisition partners and innovation programs to deliver these critical drone pouch systems on schedule and at scale. This award builds on HSGI’s legacy of equipping U.S. and allied forces with battle-proven pouches and modular gear that support lethality, versatility, and mission success.

Over the past several years, High Speed Gear has intentionally expanded its manufacturing capacity, strengthened its supply chain, and invested in both people and technology to meet the growing demands of modern defense requirements. The company stands ready to support additional mission needs with the same discipline and precision that earned this award. As requirements evolve, the HSG team is prepared to scale, adapt, and deliver, not just as a manufacturer, but as a committed partner.

For inquiries, contact: Adam Garrison, Director of Gov Business Development: Adam.Garrison@highspeedgear.com

SpiderOak Selected by the Program Office for US Army Unmanned Aircraft Systems (PMO UAS) to Support Drone Dominance Program

Tuesday, March 17th, 2026

Blue UAS Recognized Assessor to deliver supply chain and cybersecurity evaluations for participating UAS vendors

RESTON, VA, March 3, 2026 – SpiderOak, a leader in zero-trust cybersecurity solutions and services for space, aerospace, and defense, announced today that it has been awarded a contract by the Program Office for U.S. Army Unmanned Aircraft Systems (PMO UAS) to perform supply chain analysis and cybersecurity assessments for multiple vendors participating in the U.S. Army’s Drone Dominance Program (DDP).

SpiderOak, a Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Blue UAS Recognized Assessor, will apply its Advanced Cyber Threat & Resilience Assessments (ACTRA) methodology to evaluate participating platforms for supply chain integrity, cyber resilience, and compliance with U.S. Government security requirements. The effort supports the Army’s push to rapidly field secure, low-cost, unmanned aerial systems at scale.

The Drone Dominance Program, launched in February 2026, is a multi-phase initiative designed to accelerate the evaluation, selection, and production of next-generation small UAS capabilities. The program’s initial “Gauntlet” event at Fort Benning, Georgia, brought together 25 vendors for live operational testing, with the goal of selecting up to 12 performers to produce tens of thousands of systems in the near term and scale to hundreds of thousands of units by 2028.

“As unmanned systems scale across modern operations, the integrity of their cyber and supply chain foundations becomes mission critical,” said Kip Gering, CEO of SpiderOak. “We are honored to support PMO UAS and the Drone Dominance Program by delivering independent, technically rigorous assessments that help ensure these platforms can be trusted in contested environments.”

Through this contract, SpiderOak will conduct deep technical evaluations across hardware, firmware, software, and component provenance. The assessments are designed to identify vulnerabilities, validate compliance with NDAA and NIST requirements, and help program stakeholders make informed risk decisions before systems are fielded.

Advanced Cyber Threat & Resilience Assessments

SpiderOak’s Advanced Cyber Threat & Resilience Assessments (ACTRA) delivers comprehensive, threat-informed platform vulnerability assessments for tactical systems and components. For UAS initiatives, SpiderOak provides independent, technically rigorous evaluations across hardware, firmware, software, supply chain provenance, and ownership structures. These assessments support compliance with standards such as NIST 800-171, NIST 800-53, and Executive Order 14028, enabling defense stakeholders to deploy cyber-secure autonomous systems with confidence.