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GA-ASI and Mitchell Institute Award the 184th Attack Squadron With RPA Squadron of the Year

Thursday, February 5th, 2026

SAN DIEGO – 02 February 2026 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies presented the 2024 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Squadron of the Year Award to the 184th Attack Squadron (ATKS) from the Ebbing Air National Guard Base. The award was initially announced at the U.S. Air Force’s annual Air, Space, and Cyber Conference, but GA-ASI and Mitchell held a formal presentation ceremony on January 30 in Fort Smith, Arkansas, the home of the 184th ATKS, in order to include the entire “Flying Razorbacks” squadron.

The award was presented by GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue and Lt. Gen. (Ret.) David Deptula of the Mitchell Institute. The RPA Squadron of the Year Award is given annually to the squadron that distinguishes itself through its employment of RPA in meritorious service.

“Presenting this award is always one of the highlights of my year,” said Blue. “I’m thrilled to recognize the Flying Razorbacks as the RPA Squadron of the Year.”

The 184th Attack Squadron distinguished itself by executing 314 combat sorties and delivering 5,972 hours of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) in support of Operations INHERENT RESOLVE and PROSPERITY GUARDIAN. As the first unit tasked by the president of the United States to provide overwatch for humanitarian aid airdrops, the squadron demonstrated unparalleled innovation and mission versatility. Leading the Air Force in MQ-9A Reaper operations, the 184th Attack Squadron executed 66 percent of all non-traditional defensive counter-air and counter-small unmanned aerial system missions, significantly enhancing joint force lethality and integrated deterrence against adversarial threats.

“The important work of the Flying Razorbacks embodies the Air Force’s Units of Action and displays the agility, readiness, and multi-role capability of the MQ-9A, seamlessly transitioning from operational test to combat execution,” said Lt. Col. Jonathan Linn of the 184th Attack Squadron. “Their contributions as citizen airmen not only advances remotely piloted aircraft operations but also solidifies the United States Air Force’s dominance in ISR.”

The 184th Attack Squadron’s exceptional performance reflects the highest standards of service, earning them recognition as the premier remotely piloted aircraft squadron in the Department of the Air Force.

Posted in Air Force, Press Release, UAS | No Comments »

US Army Awards Persistent Systems Contract for $87.5 Million Supporting Next-Generation Command and Control Prototype

Thursday, February 5th, 2026

Contract marks a total of $121.5 million awarded to company for NGC2 prototypeNEW YORK, Feb. 4, 2026 — Persistent Systems, LLC (“Persistent”), a leader in mobile ad hoc network (MANET) technology, announced that the U.S. Army’s Capability Program Executive Command, Control, Communications, and Network (CPE C3N) has submitted a second order of $87.5 million for MANET devices, as part of the transport layer for Next-Generation Command and Control (NGC2) prototype.

This second order is a follow-on to the $34 million contract the company received in October. The follow-on award will incrementally add capability for Army prototypes of NGC2. Together, these awards total $121.5 million.

“In the transport layer, we are responsible for moving all the 1s and 0s across the battlefield, so data reaches the warfighter who needs it, when they need it,” said Jon Patrick, Vice President of Business Development at Persistent.

Faster information delivery times and more reliable access to data enable faster, more efficient decisions, streamlining command and control (C2). The MANET radio continues to demonstrate it can serve as part of the transport layer, with the speed, resilience, and capacity required for combat operations.

“As the Army has presented us with increasingly demanding benchmarks, our team continues to deliver highly resilient transport that can empower an armored division on the move,” said Dr. Herbert Rubens, Founder and CEO of Persistent Systems. “We’re proud to provide a commercial solution that supports the Army’s transport layer and strengthens the warfighter at echelon.”

Over the coming months, deliveries will be underway as Persistent looks forward to empowering the Army with the most advanced communications technology, shaping the Army’s future network.

Posted in Army, C5ISR, Comms, Contracts, Press Release | Comments Off on US Army Awards Persistent Systems Contract for $87.5 Million Supporting Next-Generation Command and Control Prototype

UF PRO Confirms Return of the Striker Challenge for 2026

Thursday, February 5th, 2026

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (28.01.2026)

UF PRO, part of Mehler Systems, announces the return of the UF PRO Striker Challenge in 2026. The military-inspired endurance event will take place on 12 September 2026 in Pokljuka Plateau, offering participants a demanding experiencein alpine terrain.

The UF PRO Striker Challenge is designed to test performance under pressure through a combination of sustained physical effort, technical execution, and decision-making. The 2026 edition will feature a 15 km course with 19 military-inspiredobstacles set across challenging terrain. Final classification prioritises successful obstacle completion, followed by total course time, placing emphasis on execution rather than speedalone.

Participants can compete in individual male and female categories, as well as in a dedicated team format. Teams of three will navigate the same course and obstacle set, with selected tasks adapted to require coordination and cooperation between team members. The structure reflects the event’s focus on consistency, resilience, and performance in demanding conditions.

In addition to the main competition, the event also includes the Striker Junior Challenge, a participation-focused 1 km course for children aged 6 to 12. The junior format features fun, age-appropriate obstacles in a controlled environment and is designed as a non-competitive experience focused on movement and participation. Each junior participant will receive a Striker Junior Challenge goodie bag.

All registered participants in the main event will receive a limited-edition Striker Challenge 2026 gift bag, including an official event T-shirt, patch, wristband, a branded surprise item, and a meal and drink voucher. The top three finishers in each category will be awarded UF PRO gear vouchers redeemable at the official UF PRO store, with a total prize pool value of€10,000.

The UF PRO Striker Challenge 2026 welcomes active and veteran military personnel, law enforcement officers, first responders, fitness and adventure athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a structured endurance challenge in a demanding environment.

Registration for the 2026 UF PRO Striker Challenge is now open. Further information and registration details are available via UF PRO’s official channels and the event page: https://ufpro.com/int/events-and-shows/events/striker-challenge-2026

Posted in Advertiser, Off-Duty, Press Release | No Comments »

Blaser Introduces the R8 Professional 2.0 Rifle

Wednesday, February 4th, 2026

San Antonio, Texas (February 3, 2026) – The Blaser R8 Professional 2.0 is the modern evolution of this iconic straight-pull rifle, with enhanced features to improve your hunting experience.

Featuring a new, ergonomically optimized vertical pistol grip for increased comfort and improved control when firing, the R8 Professional 2.0’s ambidextrous palm swell fits both right- and left-handed shooters. Other enhancements include new molded elastomer grip inserts, manufactured using 2K technology, which have a better surface texture for improved grip in the worst weather conditions. The Diamond Like Carbon A+ (DLC A+) coating of the barrel surface provides the ultimate protection against corrosion and scratches. A height-adjustable comb is now standard and helps you achieve precise alignment in the shooting position at the push of a button, and the receiver is permanently embedded into the synthetic stock for extra protection, enhanced rigidity, and precision. The fore-end also allows mounting a Harris bipod and/or Picatinny rail.

Long known for its speed, accuracy, and durability in the most brutal hunting conditions, this newest R8 is available as a Blaser kit with custom TSA approved hardcase featuring pre-cut interior foam for extra protection on your global adventures. In addition to slots for the rifle, there is space for two rifle scopes, a scope mount, and extra barrel for easy storage. The R8 2.0 takes this newest generation R8 to a higher level.

“The R8 Professional 2.0 kit is an upgraded system for Blaser owners in the United States and, for added convenience, all existing R8 parts fit this newly designed stock and receiver,” said Jason Evans, CEO, Blaser Group. “The hard case is also an attractive element of the new system for our customers who travel the globe to hunt and also those who hunt closer to home and value an improved storage option.”

Available in Black Brown and Dark Olive, three stock length options are available – 14.56 inch is standard, but customers can easily exchange for 13.97-inch or 15.35-inch length.

Five different packages are offered through Blaser Premium Dealers from Rifle Only to a Rifle and Optics Package with QDC.

MSRP: Starting at $5,500

www.blaser.de/en/Firearms-Ammunition/Bolt-Action-Rifle-R8/R8-Professional-2.0

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | No Comments »

Ford and Darley Collaborate to Equip Broncos for Search and Rescue Teams Nationwide

Wednesday, February 4th, 2026

Detroit, MI – February 3rd, 2026 – At the Detroit Auto Show, Ford announced a nationwide search to donate five Bronco Badlands models equipped with the Sasquatch Package to under-resourced search and rescue (SAR) organizations across the country. These donations are part of the Bronco Wild Fund’s commitment to provide five specialized vehicles in 2026. Two recipients, Kern County Fire & Rescue (CA) and Teton County Search & Rescue (WY), are already confirmed, and Ford is now inviting applications for the remaining three.

To ensure these vehicles are mission-ready, Ford is collaborating with Darley, a trusted provider of defense and rescue equipment, and Public Safety Direct, a leading emergency vehicle upfitter. Together, they will equip each Bronco with advanced capabilities designed for the most demanding environments and that meet the special needs of the recipients which may include special features and technology such as:

Starlink satellite connectivity for reliable communications in remote or disaster-impacted areas
Integrated drone technology for real-time aerial reconnaissance and situational awareness
Advanced lighting, winches, and recovery systems engineered for rugged rescue operations

Peter Darley, Executive Vice President and COO of Darley, said: “We’re proud to collaborate with Ford because we share a commitment to innovation and supporting those who serve. By combining Ford’s legendary vehicles with Darley’s expertise in rescue and communications gear, we’re helping search and rescue teams operate at their best, even in the toughest conditions.

Kevin Sofen, Technology & Innovation Manager for Darley, added: “Search and rescue teams don’t need complicated technology, they need tools that work every time they show up for work. These Broncos are purpose-built with reliable connectivity and integrated rescue capabilities designed specifically for how SAR teams operate. It’s a vehicle teams can rely on in demanding conditions, without having to question whether it’s going to hold up when lives are on the line”

Search and rescue organizations interested in applying for one of these specialized Broncos can visit nasar.org/page/AnswerTheCall for details.

Learn more on our websites: www.darley.com and shop.darley.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Mobility, Press Release | No Comments »

Denmark Commissions Rheinmetall to Supply Ammunition – Initial Orders Under Framework Agreement Worth Hundreds of Millions of Euros

Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026

Rheinmetall has been commissioned by Denmark, a member of the EU and NATO, to supply ammunition. The signing of a large-volume framework agreement was marked by a ceremony on 30 January 2026. The agreement has a term of seven years. It covers the supply of several types of ammunition. These include medium-calibre ammunition for infantry fighting vehicles and self-propelled anti-aircraft guns, 120 mm ammunition for main battle tanks and 155 mm ammunition for artillery.The first orders in the medium-calibre ammunition sector include various types of cartridges in 30 mm x 173 and 35 mm x 228 calibres. The total number is in the high five-digit range, with the order value in the low three-digit million euro range.In the area of 120 mm tank ammunition, Rheinmetall will supply over 1,000 rounds of kinetic-energy ammunition. The order value is in the high single-digit million euro range.”We are grateful for the trust Denmark has placed in us for its ammunition supply,” said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG. “Rheinmetall sees this as confirmation of its role as one of the world’s leading ammunition manufacturers.”

Posted in Ammo, Contracts, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Whiskey TwoFour’s Slick Back Panel 14 for Spiritus Systems LV-120 Plate Carrier

Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026

WTF’s slick Back Panel 14 for Spiritus Systems LV-120 plate carrier features a 1.5″ x 6″ loop field with ample real estate for IFF, morale patches, and similar while Six (6) nylon webbing loops offer lashing points for optional shock cord.

To discourage accidental separation from the carrier, the back panel’s zipper pull tabs tuck securely and silently into milspec elastic loops at the base. Laser cut VELCRO Brand ONE-WRAP minimizes weight and offers a secure connection to the LV-120’s loop field.

Zip-On Back Panel 14 for Spiritus Systems LV-120 (size medium) is lightweight at just 3.4oz / 99g. Introductory price. Made in the USA with Berry and IRR/NIR compliant fabrics.

Zip-On Back Panel 14 for Spiritus Systems LV-120 uses MIL-DTL-32439 500D nylon, A-A-55126 nylon hook & loop, A-A-59826 bonded nylon thread, MIL-W-5691 nylon elastic, heavy duty YKK A-A-55634 zippers, and well compensated, skilled labor to produce a cost effective part.

wtfidea.com

all trademarks, brands, etc are the sole property of Spiritus Systems Company, Inc. Spiritus Systems Company, Inc do not endorse this product

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Mission First Tactical Introduces MFT Ultra Low Ride Holster

Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026

With Plus Size ComfortHorsham, PA – (January 30th, 2026) – Mission First Tactical (MFT) proudly introduces the MFT Ultra Low Ride IWB Holster for deep concealment. It sits a full 1.5” lower at the waist than other standard AIWB holsters, offering larger-framed individuals all day comfort. And for everyone else this innovative holster design excels while you’re seated keeping the grip clear of your seatbelt for pinch-free comfort and easy access while driving.

“Comfort and concealment are what we wanted to achieve here,” said Bobby McGee, EVP of Product Management & Innovation at MFT. “We made a this Ultra Low Ride Holster a more concealable profile while utilizing the design and technology elements we are known for.”

Experience ultimate discretion with the new MFT Ultra-Low Ride Holster. This unique holster positions your firearm below the beltline for a virtually invisible profile. It offers an ultra-low-ride position that aligns perfectly with your body’s natural curves. This ensures a quick and easy draw with maximum comfort and effortless concealment. When converted to an outside the waistband (OWB) holster, the MFT Ultra Low Ride Holster sits below the waistline or “spare tire” as some refer toit, for a more comfortable conceal carry. This state-of-the-art holster is ambidextrous and features adjustable retention with audio click confirmation and comes with a 1.5’ belt clip.

MFT Holsters are handmade to precise tolerances for each handgun model, using the most advanced techniques and materials for an all-day comfortable carry. Adjustable retention and the famous “audible click” confirmation assures each draw and re-holstering is smooth and secure, ideal for concealed carry. This holster is available in OWB, IWB, Minimalist IWB and a variety of Mag Pouches to suit any need.

Features:

• OWB convertible
• Plus-size comfort
• Ambidextrous
• Made in the USA
• Lifetime warranty

MSRP: $59.99

To learn more about Mission First Tactical and their completeproduct lineup, please visit www.missionfirsttactical.com. Stay connected with the latest updates by following MFT on Facebook and Instagram.

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