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Origin Robotics Selected by Belgian Ministry of Defense to Supply BLAZE Drone Interceptors

Wednesday, November 19th, 2025

RIGA, Latvia (18 November 2025) – Origin Robotics announced today that the Belgian Ministry of Defense has selected its AI-powered BLAZE interceptor as part of a newly approved 50 million euro national counter-drone package aimed at strengthening Belgium’s ability to detect, track and neutralize hostile unmanned aerial systems. The procurement follows several weeks of escalating drone incursions over airports, military facilities and critical infrastructure.

Belgium’s decision comes amid significant pressure to reinforce its airspace security. The country has struggled to respond to repeated air traffic interruptions due to insufficient counter-drone capacity. In recent weeks Belgium had to call in support from Germany and the United Kingdom to compensate for the shortfall. The new short-term package is intended to restore immediate operational resilience while the Ministry of Defense prepares a longer-term investment plan. In addition, Defence Minister Theo Francken has announced a 500 million euro comprehensive anti-drone program for sustained capability development.

Agris Kipurs, CEO and co-founder of Origin Robotics, said, “This decision reaffirms Origin Robotics as a leading company in the field of advanced autonomous defense systems. In essence, this is a major statement of confidence. Belgium is facing an immediate security problem and has chosen BLAZE as the solution. We are proud to support a NATO ally with a system built for exactly this type of threat environment and we remain committed to delivering reliable, cost-effective and rapidly deployable capabilities.”

Launched in May 2025, BLAZE is an autonomous interceptor designed to neutralize fast-moving aerial threats, including loitering munitions and hostile drones. It combines radar-based detection, AI-powered computer vision and operator-approved autonomy to deliver precise, rapid and scalable defensive capability. The system is man-portable, deployable in minutes and capable of high-intensity operational cycles. BLAZE delivers intercepts through airburst fragmentation and includes robust safety features such as operator-controlled wave-off commands for return or self-neutralization.

The Belgian procurement reinforces the growing adoption of Origin Robotics technologies across Europe. Following the battlefield-proven deployment of Origin’s BEAK system with the Latvian and Ukrainian Armed Forces, as well as recognition through national and EU defense programs, Origin continues to expand its role as a trusted supplier of autonomous aerial defense solutions.

Posted in C-UAS, Contracts, Drone, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Origin Robotics Selected by Belgian Ministry of Defense to Supply BLAZE Drone Interceptors

GA-ASI Completes Full-Scale Fatigue Test on MQ-9B

Tuesday, November 18th, 2025

MQ-9B’s Third Lifetime Test Completes the FSF Testing Process With a Total of 120,000 Hours

DUBAI AIRSHOW – 17 November 2025 – On October 31, 2025, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) completed its “third lifetime” of full-scale fatigue (FSF) testing for the MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). Completion of FSF testing for the third and final lifetime includes a total of 120,000 operating hours (40,000+ flight hours per aircraft life) for the RPA and is a key milestone in validating the design of the airframe. The testing verifies the airframe structural integrity in support of certification to the NATO STANAG 4671 standard.

The aim of the testing is to identify any potential structural deficiencies ahead of fleet usage and assist in developing inspection and maintenance schedules for the airframe. Test results will be used as documentation for certification and will form the basis for in-service inspections of structural components.

“The completion of our full-scale fatigue test validates years of GA-ASI design and analysis efforts,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “The first two lifetimes simulated the operation of the aircraft under normal conditions, and the third intentionally inflicted damage to the airframe’s critical components to demonstrate its ability to tolerate operational damage that could occur over the lifetime of the aircraft.”

Testing was conducted from December 13, 2022, through October 31, 2025, at Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research in Wichita, Kansas. The airframe tested was a production airframe purpose-built to support the test campaign.

MQ-9B is GA-ASI’s most advanced RPA and includes the SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian® models as well as the new Protector RG Mk1 that is currently being delivered to the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF). In addition to the RAF, GA-ASI has MQ-9B procurement contracts with Belgium, Canada, Japan, Taiwan, Poland, India, Denmark, and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. MQ-9B has also been featured in various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, RIMPAC, and Group Sail.

Posted in Aviation, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Completes Full-Scale Fatigue Test on MQ-9B

NEXTORCH Introduces WL15 High Performance Tactical Weapon Light

Tuesday, November 18th, 2025

Seattle, WA – (November 14th, 2025) – NEXTORCH North America, the primary U.S. distributor of global manufacturer NEXTORCH Industries, proudly introduces the WL15 Tactical Weapon Light, a rail-mounted tactical light designed in Germany and engineered to meet the demands of law enforcement and military personnel. Delivering up to 1,200 ultra-bright lumens and 44,100 candela, its focused beam can reach a distance up to 459 yards. The WL15 provides crucialforward illumination for rapid and accurate target identification in time-critical situations.

The WL15 is designed for professionals who require durability, speed, and ergonomic control. This state-of-the-art weapon light features a front-loaded battery access system and a quick-detach rail mount, enabling lightning-fast battery swaps without removing it from the firearm. The tool-free system allows for seamless attachment and removal if necessary. Ambidextrous toggle switches provide intuitive momentary-on and constant-on control from either side with brightness memory. With its three interchangeable modular switch caps, users can customize the controls to match their specific grip and operational needs, even with gloves on.

The WL15 comes standard with a choice of five separate rail adapter plates that provide a platform that can fit MIL-STD-1913 picatinny, S&W TSW & Model 99 style, Beretta 90-TWO and Glock rails; allowing this weapon light to remain rock-solid under the most extreme recoil. Constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum, its robust housing can withstand impact and environmental exposures for consistent performance in the harshest conditions.

Whether used for duty, tactical training, or personal defense, where rapid operational requirements are needed, the WL15 is a must have for law enforcement, security professionals, and others who demand professional illumination without compromise.

Key Features:

• Max output: 1,200 lumens

• Max beam Intensity: 44,100 candela

• Beam distance: 459 yards

• Modes: momentary on, constant on

• Water resistance: IPX7 (submersible to 3.2 ft.)

• Dual-cell compatible: accepts 2 x 16340 or 2 x CR123A batteries

• Special Features: ambidextrous switch, quick-attach mount, front-loaded battery access, modular switch design

MSRP: $136.99

Available for Evaluation

Law enforcement, military, and security agencies in the U.S. are invited to participate in the NEXTORCH 30-Day-Free Test & Evaluation Program. To learn more about the T&E program “click here”.

Posted in Lights, Press Release | Comments Off on NEXTORCH Introduces WL15 High Performance Tactical Weapon Light

Sawgrass Expands Operations with New State-of-the-Art Facility Featuring Latest Laser Cutting Technology

Tuesday, November 18th, 2025

Sawgrass Expands Operations with New State-of-the-Art Facility Featuring Latest Laser Cutting Technology

Saluda, NC — November 13, 2025 — Sawgrass, the leading laser cutting and precision fabrication provider with decades of industry experience, proudly announces the opening of its new, cutting-edge facility in Saluda, NC. This expansion marks a major milestone in the company’s continued growth and commitment to innovation, quality, and service across the nation.

Equipped with the latest generation of laser cutting technology, the new facility enhances Sawgrass’s ability to deliver exceptional precision, speed, and efficiency. This investment underscores the company’s dedication to supporting critical sectors including the Department of Defense (DOD), aerospace, law enforcement, automotive, and a wide range of industrial partners.

“Our new facility represents the future of advanced manufacturing,” said Matt Widincamp, President of Sawgrass. “By combining decades of expertise with the most advanced laser technology available, we’re setting new standards for precision, reliability, and turnaround times in every industry we serve.”

As one of the leading laser cutting providers in the United States, Sawgrass has built its reputation on precision craftsmanship, innovative processes, and unwavering customer commitment. The new location expands production capacity, streamlines operations, and strengthens the company’s ability to meet growing demand for high-performance components and assemblies.

About Sawgrass

Sawgrass has been a trusted leader in precision laser cutting, fabrication, and manufacturing services for over 30 years. Serving customers in defense, aerospace, automotive, law enforcement, and industrial markets, the company is known for its technical expertise, quality standards, and cutting-edge technology.

For more information, visit www.sawgrassproduction.com or contact:

Contact:

Mark Smith

Director of Business Development

Sawgrass

828-634-6955

mark@sawgrassproduction.com

Posted in Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Sawgrass Expands Operations with New State-of-the-Art Facility Featuring Latest Laser Cutting Technology

Introducing Storm-Tech and Storm-Tech Elite: The Next Evolution in Performance Fabric Technology

Tuesday, November 18th, 2025

Brookwood proudly unveils Storm-Tech®, a groundbreaking PTFE alternative leading the evolution of performance fabric technology. Berry Compliant and engineered with Brookwood Zero™ Technology, Storm-Tech® redefines reliability and sustainability while delivering exceptional protection and comfort.

Built as a 3-layer waterproof breathable laminate, Storm-Tech® is designed for those who demand peak performance, offering:

Windproof Performance

Breathable Comfort

Waterproof Barrier Construction

Now available in MultiCam®, Storm-Tech® sets a new benchmark for advanced protection and dependable performance — without intentionally added PFAS.

Pushing performance even further, Brookwood introduces Storm-Tech® Elite — an imported, next-generation 3-layer waterproof breathable laminate engineered for elite protection with the same innovative science behind Brookwood Zero™ Technology. Now available in solid colors, Storm-Tech® Elite elevates global standards for protection, innovation, and high-performance durability.

Powered by Brookwood. From U.S.-made monolithic waterproofing to globally engineered innovations, Brookwood’s Storm-Tech® platform delivers uncompromising protection — redefining what’s possible in performance fabrics.

brookwoodcompanies.com/project/stormtech

brookwoodcompanies.com/zero

Posted in Advertiser, Materials, Multicam, Press Release | Comments Off on Introducing Storm-Tech and Storm-Tech Elite: The Next Evolution in Performance Fabric Technology

XACT Engineered Manufacturing Solutions Received a Gold ‘Partner2Win’ Medallion at BAE Systems’ Seventh Annual Supplier Symposium

Monday, November 17th, 2025

HOUSTON, Texas — November 19, 2025 — XACT Engineered Manufacturing Solutions (XACT EMS) received a Gold Medallion at BAE Systems’ ‘Partner2Win’ suppler symposium, recognizing its exceptional performance and commitment to operational excellence this year.

XACT’s contributions to supply chain success and the U.S. defense industrial base helped BAE Systems ensure quality deliveries of combat vehicles and weapon systems to the U.S. military and its allies.

“The strength of our supply network is these companies. They’re more than just partners – they’re an extension of our team,” said Garrett Lacaillade, vice president of integrated operations for BAE Systems’ Combat Mission Systems business. “Their innovation, reliability, and relentless commitment to excellence fuels our ability to deliver for warfighters. This event is our way of saying thank you and celebrating the power of what we deliver together.”

The ‘Partner2Win’ program, now in its seventh year, acknowledges suppliers who excel in operations, quality, and procurement. Through this program, BAE Systems fosters close relationships with its suppliers, sharing best practices, learnings, and innovative solutions to drive mutual success. The award-winning suppliers this year have demonstrated exceptional commitment to delivering high-quality products for warfighters.

Learn more about BAE Systems’ ‘Partner2Win’ supplier symposium here.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on XACT Engineered Manufacturing Solutions Received a Gold ‘Partner2Win’ Medallion at BAE Systems’ Seventh Annual Supplier Symposium

Adept Armor Introduces the Archon Level IV Plate

Monday, November 17th, 2025

Developed in response to European military requirements, the Archon Plate will debut at Milipol Paris 2025 in Booth 5 G 601, Nov. 18 – 21, 2025, at Paris Nord Villepinte.

Denison, TX. (November 2025) – Adept Armor, pioneers in next-gen protective solutions, is pleased to introduce the Archon Level IV Plate. Developed in response to European military requirements, the Archon represents the ideal balance between protection, weight, and comfort for today’s combat scenarios. Weighing in at just 5.75 lbs. and measuring 10 x 12” at a 1” thickness, the Archon delivers comprehensive protection from both the .30-06 M2 AP and modern intermediate-caliber AP threats while maintaining an exceptionally light weight. Adept Armor will debut the Archon Plate at Milipol Paris 2025, taking place Nov. 18 – 21, 2025, at Paris Nord Villepinte, where the company will exhibit at Booth 5 G 601.

While peer adversaries increasingly field advanced tungsten-cored threats such as 5.45x39mm 7N24, 7N39, and next-generation 5.8mm AP rounds, most Level IV plates were designed around yesterday’s threats. The Archon is a culmination of focused engineering, maximizing protection from the threats one is most likely to face, while keeping weight at the absolute minimum. It is built for those who need assured protection from 5.56mm, 5.45mm, and 5.8mm tungsten-cored threats without the weight penalty of heavy-duty Level IV+ plates like the Colossus.

“By optimizing for intermediate-caliber tungsten threats rather than over-engineering for every possible threat, we’ve created a plate that delivers exactly what modern warfighters need. Nothing more, nothing less,” said Jake Ganor, President of Adept Armor.

The Archon features a SiC-TiB2 composite strike face, a next-gen ceramic material developed specifically to counter tungsten-cored small arms threats. It features a next-gen UHMWPE composite backer with an integrated, premium Ivoryguard thermoplastic foam on the body side for exceptional comfort and trauma reduction. The resilient thermoplastic foam is also included in the molded padding on the strike-face for practical drop and impact protection. Featuring a multi-curve design for comfort and a better form fit, the Archon has a full-sized strike face with full edge-to-edge ceramic coverage.

The Adept Armor Archon plate is multi-hit capable against the following:

For more information on Adept Armor, visit its website or follow along on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube.

Posted in Armor, Milipol, Press Release | Comments Off on Adept Armor Introduces the Archon Level IV Plate

Echodyne and Poland’s Military Institute of Armored and Automotive Technology Collaborate on Integrating Counter-Drone Radar into Unmanned Ground Vehicles

Monday, November 17th, 2025

The respected R&D center collaborates with Echodyne as modernizing ground capabilities becomes increasingly important for national defense

Kirkland, WA, November 13, 2025 – Echodyne, the radar platform company, today announces a collaboration with Poland’s Military Institute of Armored and Automotive Technology (WITPiS), a leading research and development center in the field of land vehicle technology. Through this collaboration, the teams will work to assess, integrate, and find potential uses for Echodyne’s counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) radars in Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) developed by WITPiS and its industrial partners.

Echodyne will be working closely with its long-time partner and distributor in Poland, Linc Polska, to test, demonstrate, and present the capabilities of C-UAS radar technology with WITPiS’ UGVs. The three entities will work hand-in-hand to identify both civil and military applications for the radar-enabled UGVs in the region.

“The Military Institute of Armored and Automotive Technology brings critical expertise to our collaboration to deliver best-in-class ground-based systems for detection and situational awareness,” said Eben Frankenberg, CEO of Echodyne. “As Allied militaries increasingly put the spotlight on modernizing their land force capabilities, Echodyne looks forward to continuing to demonstrate how our MESA radars provide the highest performance for on-the-move threat detection, and integration into larger counter-UAS and defense systems.”

Echodyne’s 4D metamaterials electronically scanned array (MESA) radars are perfectly suited to provide the reliable precision tracking capabilities required for fixed, portable, and on-the-move C-UAS missions. Rooted in the belief that data fidelity makes all the difference to C-UAS mission success, Echodyne radars consistently generate a high-fidelity view of the airspace, detecting and tracking UAS intruders with pinpoint accuracy.

“Echodyne’s been a long-time partner of ours and we know exactly what their consistent, reliable radar technology is capable of,” said Harald Dingemans, CEO at Linc Polska. “We look forward to showcasing different ways the radar technology can support the modernization of land capabilities with WITPiS UGVs.”

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