Press Release | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

GA-ASI Advances Sub-Hunting With Test of New Air-Dropped Sensors

Wednesday, February 26th, 2025

SAN DIEGO – 25 February 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) continues to expand the role of unmanned aerial systems, demonstrating the first-ever Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capability on an MQ-9B SeaGuardian®. In a groundbreaking test from January 20-30, 2025, a company-operated MQ-9B SeaGuardian successfully deployed and tested anti-submarine sensors using multiple pre-production Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) pods.

Having already proven its ability to track submerged targets, SeaGuardian took this capability further with GA-ASI’s newly designed SDS pods. These pods deployed multiple sonobuoys to conduct onboard thermal-depth and acoustic data processing. Using Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording (DIFAR), Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS), and Bathythermograph sonobuoys, SeaGuardian effectively detected, tracked, and analyzed underwater targets while collecting critical acoustic intelligence.

“This demonstration represents a major leap forward in unmanned capabilities and marks a major milestone in proving that an unmanned aircraft can perform end-to-end persistent ASW operations,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “The success of this testing paves the way for enhanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities on the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. We look forward to continued collaboration with the U.S. Navy as they explore innovative solutions for distributed maritime operations in the undersea domain.”

As part of the development process, GA-ASI successfully deployed multiple DIFAR and DICASS test sonobuoys, precisely correlating ejection speed with stress/strain data. This provided a high-fidelity launch model to refine future deployment capabilities.

Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) AIRWorks played a key role in supporting and overseeing the development, ensuring the system meets emerging warfighter needs. AIRWorks has partnered with GA-ASI in multiple ASW demonstrations, including the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise in July 2024.

With strong demand already in place from multiple customers, GA-ASI anticipates increasing interest in the MQ-9B SeaGuardian, given its high-end maritime capabilities at a significantly lower cost than traditional manned maritime platforms.

Posted in Press Release, Sensors, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Advances Sub-Hunting With Test of New Air-Dropped Sensors

Integris and QinetiQ Collaborate on U.S. Army Helicopter Armor

Wednesday, February 26th, 2025

Integris and QinetiQ Join Forces to Enhance Survivability of Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA)

Legacy Resource for Defense Prime Contractors

25 February 2025 – Integris Composites, Inc., a global leader in armor protection for military, police and security has become a Tier 1 supplier of military helicopter armor for defense departments and prime contractors.

Integris Composites, a leading supplier of advanced armor systems, recently announced it is partnering with QinetiQ US to provide armor systems for the U.S. Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA)—the next-generation helicopter program that addresses the U.S. Army’s requirements for increased speed, range, and survivability.

“This collaboration builds upon Integris’ initial selection byBell Textron to provide armor systems for the FLRAA, further solidifying the positioning of Integris Composites in the cutting-edge military aviation sector,” said David Cordova, chief commercial officer of Integris, Inc.

ARMOR SYSTEM: Bell Textron, Inc. has selected Integris Composites to supply armor for the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA). The Bell V-280 Valor pictured here was chosen by the US Army as the winner of Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft Program. The new assault aircraft will fly twice as far and twice as fast as the current fleet.

Integris has awarded QinetiQ the contract to provide systems engineering and integration expertise for the materials technology that will be used on both the floor and wing of the advanced rotorcraft. Cordova said this is the latest collaboration in the history between QinetiQ and Integris.

The FLRAA program has entered the engineering and manufacturing development phase, with Bell reporting it has commenced detailed design work on six prototypes.

“We are extremely proud to be part of the team behind this innovative rotorcraft that is ushering in what will become the U.S. Army’s new long-range assault aircraft,” Cordova continued. The QinetiQ-Integris collaboration leverages Integris’ expertise in lightweight, fit-for-purpose composite military armor, which has been successfully applied to various aerospace projects.

Cordova said that Integris, in alignment with other industry partners, supports key program objectives, including Bell’s Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), increased survivability, and alignment with the broader Future Vertical Lift (FVL) initiative, as the FLRAA progresses toward prototype testing in 2026 and fielding by 2030.

Global Helicopter Armor Resource

“Integris is today entering its fourth decade of business as a reliable resource for major military commands as well as a robust partner of choice for the world’s top defense contractors. We are a credentialed tier one supplier to aerospace original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and prime defense contractors throughout the world,” said Cordova.

The company is supplying armor kits for the new Boeing MH-139 Grey Wolf that will replace the UH-60 Black Hawk for the U.S. Air Force. “We are part of a storied lineage that traces its roots back to the iconic Vietnam-era ‘Huey’ (UH-1 Iroquois) and present-day Black Hawk, which since 1979 has been the Army’s Utility Tactical Transport Aircraft System (UTTAS),” Cordova continued.

Integris has provided ballistic protection for various international helicopter platforms, including:

Airbus H-125 – special lightweight, high-performance kits for U.S. Customs and Border Patrol

Airbus Military – H135, NH90, H145, H225M (Super Puma), H175, and potentially the H160

Leonardo Helicopters – AW159, AW101, and AW169

Trusted Resource

In addition to armor kits for rotorcraft, the company has been contracted to support Velocity Systems, the Battelle Memorial Institute, Mack Defense, American Rheinmetall Vehicles, and the Air Force Institute of Technology.

Integris also has a strong reputation for the body armor plates that protect military personnel around the world. “We are pleased to report that our Cratus™ Wave ballistic armor, an innovative thinner and heat stress-reducing body armor insert, was ordered by the U.S. Air Force 582nd Helicopter Group.

Posted in Armor, Army, Aviation, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Integris and QinetiQ Collaborate on U.S. Army Helicopter Armor

XS Sights Announces Revolver Line Extensions for 2025

Wednesday, February 26th, 2025

Fort Worth, Texas (February 25, 2025) – XS® Sights is pleased to offer the following line extensions for Smith & Wesson, Colt, and Taurus revolvers.

White Dot Front Sight with Tritium Center

Our white dot front sight with a tritium center delivers high visibility in any lighting condition. The bright white dot provides strong contrast in daylight and reflects ambient light for enhanced visibility in low-light environments. While the white portion itself doesn’t glow, it remains visible until the tritium’s glow takes over in darker settings.

Brass Front Sight

Our brass front sight features a hand-polished insert that naturally catches and reflects ambient light, delivering a bright, high-contrast aiming point in any environment. The smooth, reflective surface enhances visibility, making target acquisition faster and more precise. With its durable construction and refined finish, this sight provides a reliable and consistent sight picture shot after shot.

SMITH & WESSON

J-Frame – XS Standard Dot with pre-drilled white or brass front sight

K- and L-Frame (.38/.357); L-Frame (.44) – XS Minimalist sights with pre-drilled white or brass front sight

COLT

Cobra, King Cobra, and Viper – XS Standard Dot with easy to install white or brass front sight

TAURUS

Taurus 856/605 – XS Standard Dot with pre-drilled brass front sight

For more information, visit www.xssights.com.

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on XS Sights Announces Revolver Line Extensions for 2025

LMT Defense and SWISSLOXX AG Secure Significant Swiss Armed Forces Small Arms Contract

Tuesday, February 25th, 2025

Eldridge, Iowa – February 23, 2025 – LMT Defense, in partnership with SWISSLOXX AG, is proud to announce the award of a significant contract to supply small arms to the Swiss Armed Forces. The contract, for rifles in various calibers, will primarily focus on the 5.56 x 45 NATO caliber, type classified as the Sturmgewehr 25. This prestigious award underscores both companies’ dedication to delivering precision, reliability, and innovation to one of the world’s most demanding military organizations.

Meeting the Swiss Standard of Excellence

The Swiss Armed Forces are renowned for their rigorous procurement processes, reflecting the nation’s unwavering commitment to quality and precision. LMT Defense and SWISSLOXX AG were selected based on the exceptional performance, durability, and accuracy of their proposed small arms, a testament to the companies’ shared commitment to exceeding the highest defense requirements.

Innovation and Performance in Every Detail

LMT Defense and SWISSLOXX AG continually push the boundaries of small arms technology. Their weapons are:

Engineered for Precision: Optimized components ensure consistent accuracy and performance.

Built for Durability: Proven to withstand harsh conditions and rigorous testing.

Designed for Reliability: Innovative features minimize malfunction risks and maximize mission readiness.

A Partnership for the Future of Defense

“We are honored to support the Swiss Armed Forces with our advanced small arms solutions,” said Karl Lewis, President of LMT Defense. “This contract reflects our commitment to quality and innovation and strengthens our successful partnership with SWISSLOXX AG.”

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on LMT Defense and SWISSLOXX AG Secure Significant Swiss Armed Forces Small Arms Contract

NEXTORCH TA22 Tri-Mode Tactical Penlight

Tuesday, February 25th, 2025

Cleveland, TN – (February 14th, 2025) – NEXTORCH North America, the primary U.S. distributor of global manufacturer NEXTORCH Industries, is proud to announce the new TA22 Tri-Mode Tactical Penlight. This high-performance tool combines cutting-edge technology with practical features; making it a must-have for tactical professionals, first responders, and outdoor enthusiasts.

The TA22 is a professional-grade tactical penlight delivering unmatched power in a compact platform. This penlight sets a new benchmark with 850 lumens of tactical illumination; making it an ideal self-defense light for law enforcement professionals and civilians alike. This tactical penlight is built with a silent activation switch for stealth operation and a nano-ceramic glass breaker tips for emergency needs. It is powered by a USB-C rechargeable battery with an integrated battery status indicator on the light for reliable field performance. Designed for single-handed operation, this self-defense penlight excels in both tactical and everyday carry situations.

The NEXTORCH TA22 redefines tactical penlights with its compact design and high-performance capabilities. It’s 850 lumens of output brightness ensures you can illuminate large areas and identify objects clearly. With its innovative circuit technology, the TA22 provides a beam distance of up to 95 meters in high mode, offering enhanced visibility and safety in low-light conditions. The patented one-step-strobe feature enables quick access to strobe for emergency situations. This function is accessible with a simple full press on the tactical mode setting, ensuring immediate response when needed. The TA22 features a multi-mode design with three selectable settings: LOCK, DUTY, and TAC. The tail switch operation in TAC mode allows for a half press for momentary high and a full press for the one-step-strobe. The DUTY mode offers a half press for momentary on, full press for constant high, and subsequent half presses to toggle between brightness levels (high, medium, low). The LOCK mode prevents accidental activation, making it ideal for storage or transport.

Crafted from durable A6061-T6 aluminum alloy, the TA22 is lightweight yet robust. It has passed ANSI 6.5 ft. drop tests and is IPX8 waterproof submergible up to 6.5 feet. The nano-ceramic strike bezel adds functionality for emergency glass breaking and self-defense. Additionally, the anti-rolling design ensures the flashlight stays in place when placed on uneven surfaces. The TA22 is equipped with a USB-C rechargeable 10880 Li-ion battery for long-lasting power and up to 500 charge cycles.

Technical specifications:

– Maximum output: 850 lumens

– Beam distance: 312 feet

– Battery: Rechargeable Li-ion (included)

– Battery Status indicator, Nano-ceramic bezel

– Runtime: Up to 15 hours

– Dimensions: 5.8” L x .62” W x .56 dia.

– Weight: 1.4 oz. (without battery)

MSRP: $69.99

To learn more about the complete product offerings from NEXTORCH, please visit www.nextorch.com and follow them on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.

Posted in Lights, Press Release | 2 Comments »

Mehler Protection Introduces the HYVE: A Versatile Waistcoat with Integrated Plate Carrier

Tuesday, February 25th, 2025

FULDA, GERMANY (24.02.2025)

Mehler Protection proudly unveils the Hybrid Waistcoat (HYVE), a cutting-edge personal protection solution designed to meet the dynamic needs of law enforcement and security personnel. Combining a tailored waistcoatwith a fully compatible plate carrier, the HYVE provides an adaptable and efficient approach to tactical protection.

This innovative system seamlessly integrates a soft ballistic waistcoat with a detachable plate carrier, enabling users to independently enhance their level of protection based on situational demands. With its thoughtful design, the HYVE allows for quick adjustments during critical operations without compromising functionality or mobility.

The waistcoat offers personalised protection through a custom fit, ensuring maximum comfort and ease ofmovement for individual users. The detachable plate carrier, designed to accommodate ballistic plates at thefront and back, is a one-size-fits-all solution that can be shared among team members, making it a resource-efficient option. Importantly, the plate carrier can be added or removed in seconds, even under high-pressure conditions, without the need to adjust or remove the waistcoat itself.

Pockets and equipment remain accessible in their original positions throughout operations, ensuring uninterrupted usability. This intuitive and ergonomic design allows personnel to respond effectively in both standard and high-risk scenarios, enhancing their operational readiness and confidence.

The HYVE reflects Mehler Protection’s commitment to delivering advanced, flexible, and practical solutions for those working in demanding environments. It sets a new benchmark in modern tactical equipment, combining efficiency with user-centric design to address the uniquechallenges of today’s operational landscapes.

For more details about the HYVE and Mehler Protection’s advanced protective solutions, please visit here.

Posted in Armor, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Mehler Protection Introduces the HYVE: A Versatile Waistcoat with Integrated Plate Carrier

Blue Force Gear Earns Great Place To Work Certification

Tuesday, February 25th, 2025

POOLER, GA. – Blue Force Gear, Inc., the world leader in load carriage equipment, announces their recent achievement as a Great Place To Work certified company. This prestigious award is based entirely on what current employees say about their experience working at Blue Force Gear. The certification reflects Blue Force Gear’s success in creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and engaged in the company’s mission to provide innovative gear solutions.

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and the leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation.

“Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience,” says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasizes that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Blue Force Gear stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees.”

“This certification is a testament to our team’s dedication and the strong culture we’ve built together,” said Ashley Burnsed, President of Blue Force Gear. “Our employees are the foundation of our success, and we’re proud to have created a workplace where innovation thrives, and people genuinely enjoy coming to work each day.”

According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion.

BLUE FORCE GEAR IS HIRING!

Looking to grow your career at a company that puts its people first? Visit the BFG careers page at: www.blueforcegear.com/careers

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Press Release, TacJobs | Comments Off on Blue Force Gear Earns Great Place To Work Certification

UK Special Forces To Renew Contract With Colt Canada

Monday, February 24th, 2025

The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced its intention to award contract Colt Canada with a contract for the supply of C8 rifle spares and accessories, according to a tender notice published on 19 February 2025. The contract will run for an initial two-year period, with options to extend for a further three years. The contract covers essential components for the C8 rifle platform, a widely used firearm among UK specialist military units.

According to the MoD, the contract will “provide C8 Rifle Spares and Accessories for a period of 2 years with 3 option years”, ensuring continued support and maintenance of these critical weapons. The contract is expected to run from 8 August 2025 to 7 August 2027, with potential extensions based on operational requirements. The MoD has confirmed that the contract will be awarded without prior publication of a competitive tender, citing technical reasons under Regulation 16(1)(a)(ii) of the Defence and Security Public Contracts Regulations (DSPCR) 2011. The justification states:

“It is considered that the award of the contract without prior publication of a contract notice in the UK e-notification service (as required by the relevant legislation) is lawful in accordance with Regulation 16(1)(a)(ii) of the DSPCR 2011 for technical reasons.”

The MoD argues that Colt Canada Corporation is the only supplier capable of fulfilling this requirement, due to its “significant niche expertise, technical ‘know-how’ and acquired specific experience to source quality spares and manage the supply chain / delivery process.”

The Colt Canada C8 is designated as the L119A1/A2 in British service, is primarily used by the United Kingdom Special Forces (UKSF) and certain specialised units which include:

Special Air Service

Special Boat Service

Special Reconnaissance Regiment (SRR)

Special Forces Support Group (SFSG)

Pathfinder Platoon (16 Air Assault Brigade)

43 Commando Royal Marines

Royal Military Police Close Protection Unit

The Colt Canada L119/A2 gained fame through media coverage of the rapid tactical response conducted by SAS operator Christian Craighead during the 2019 Al Shabab terror attack in Nairobi Kenya. Craighead worked with local Kenyan forces to engage Al Shabab terrorists and rescue hostages being held in the DusitD2 hotel complex, earning him the nickname ‘Obi Wan Nairobi’ and reinforcing the solid reputation of Colt Canada’s C8 as being the carbine of choice for some of the world’s most prestigious Tier 1 SOF units.

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release | 3 Comments »