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Athlon Optics Introduces the Ares HLR Riflescope

Friday, April 24th, 2026

Lenexa, KS (April, 2026) – Athlon Optics introduces the Ares HLR, a lightweight, precision-built riflescope designed for hunters who cover ground, hunt long hours, and demand repeatable performance when the moment matters most. Built around a rugged one-piece 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum tube and weighing as little as 18.9 ounces, the Ares HLR delivers high-end optical performance without adding unnecessary weight to your rifle.

Purpose-built for Western spot-and-stalk hunters, backcountry adventurers, and anyone prioritizing mobility without sacrificing capability, the Ares HLR brings together ultra-premium fully multi-coated glass, an illuminated reticle, and exposed precision turrets for confident adjustments in the field. Whether dialing for distance on a high-country mule deer or making a fast correction on a coyote crossing an open field, the Ares HLR is engineered to perform under real hunting conditions.

The Ares HLR features a refined exposed turret system designed for positive, tactile adjustments and reliable return to zero, giving hunters confidence when making elevation corrections at extended ranges. Combined with exceptional light transmission and edge-to-edge clarity, the optic maintains visibility and detail from first light through the final minutes of legal shooting time.

Despite its advanced feature set, the Ares HLR remains impressively lightweight. The 2.5-15×42 model weighs just 18.9 ounces, making it an ideal choice for ounce-counting hunters and long treks into the backcountry. The 4-24×50 model comes in at approximately 21 ounces, offering additional magnification for longer-range applications while still maintaining a highly portable profile.

Available Models:
The Ares HLR is offered in six models across two configurations. The 2.5-15×42 is available in three reticle options: AHMC1 Fiber Dot SFP IR MOA, APLR-H2 SFP IR MOA, and APRS-H2 SFP IR MIL, each priced at $962.49. The 4-24×50 is also available in AHMC1 Fiber Dot SFP IR MOA, APLR-H2 SFP IR MOA, and APRS-H2 SFP IR MIL configurations, each priced at $1,062.49. All models feature a 30mm tube, illuminated reticles, and exposed turrets for precise dialing.

All Ares HLR models are available now through authorized Athlon Optics dealers. For more information, visit athlonoptics.com.

Posted in Optics, Press Release | No Comments »

Ondas Completes Merger of U.S. Defense Prime Contractor Mistral, Brings Programs in Excess of $1 Billion and Expands Direct Prime Participation Across U.S. Department of War Programs

Friday, April 24th, 2026

Establishes Direct Access to U.S. Army and Special Operations IDIQ Contract Vehicles and Expands Domestic Manufacturing and Integration Capabilities
Transaction Strengthens Ondas’ Position as a Next-Generation Defense Prime, Accelerating Deployment of Autonomous Systems Across U.S. Defense and Homeland Security Markets
Adds Approximately $264 million to Ondas’ Backlog; Ondas Pro Forma Backlog, Adjusted for the Mistral and World View Acquisitions, was $457 Million as of March 31, 2026

WEST PALM BEACH, FL / April 24, 2026 / Ondas Inc. (Nasdaq:ONDS) (“Ondas” or the “Company”), a leading provider of autonomous aerial and ground-based intelligence systems through its Ondas Autonomous Systems (OAS) business unit and private wireless solutions through Ondas Networks, today announced it has completed its merger of MistralInc. (“Mistral”), a U.S.-based defense prime contractor with decades of experience supporting U.S. military, federal, and public safety programs.

The merger, valued at $175 million, provides the Company with direct prime contractor access to U.S. Army and Special Operations contract vehicles, while adding U.S.-based manufacturing, integration, and federal contracting infrastructure. The transaction marks a significant step in Ondas’ strategy to expand direct participation in large-scale U.S. government programs.

Mistral brings established relationships across U.S. defense and homeland security agencies, as well as a proven track record delivering mission-critical technologies into operational environments. Mistral will support and expand its existing programs, customers and partner relationships while forming a dedicated program capture arm for Ondas in the U.S., establishing a focused capability to deliver, support, and scale the deployment of Ondas’ integrated systems across defense and homeland security customers. The combination accelerates Ondas’ ability to deploy integrated autonomous systems, including aerial platforms, counter-UAS technologies, and ground robotics, directly into U.S. defense programs.

“This merger marks a significant step in positioning Ondas as a fully integrated defense prime contractor, accelerating our expansion across the U.S. defense market,” said Eric Brock, Chairman and CEO of Ondas. “Mistral brings established access to key contract vehicles, a U.S.-based manufacturing and integration footprint, and deep customer relationships across UAVs, loitering munitions, and ground robotics-directly aligned with the core segments of our platform. Together, we are strengthening our ability to deliver mission-ready systems to U.S. government customers at scale.”

“Mistral has already captured programs exceeding $1 billion in value and is expected to be a meaningful contributor to revenue growth and EBITDA leverage as we scale our U.S. operations,” Brock added.

With Mistral’s position as a prime contractor on established U.S. Army IDIQ programs and its role supporting advanced soldier and tactical systems initiatives, Ondas is now structurally positioned to pursue larger program awards and accelerate technology integration to program-of-record deployment. The addition of U.S.-based production and contract execution capabilities also strengthens Ondas’ ability to meet procurement requirements tied to domestic manufacturing, supply chain security, and long-term sustainment.

As of March 31, 2026, Ondas estimates its backlog with orders in hand was $177 million, an increase from $68 million at December 31, 2025. Mistral had $264 million in contracted backlog as of April 21, 2026 and World View Enterprises (“World View”), which was acquired on April 1, 2026, had contracted backlog of $16 million at closing. Ondas’ pro forma backlog as of March 31, 2026, was $457 million, adjusted for the addition of Mistral and World View.

For additional information regarding the merger, please see the Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission later today. In connection with the merger, the Company approved inducement grants of restricted stock units (RSUs) representing 1,245,263 shares of the Company’s common stock to a total of 58 employees newly-hired in connection with the merger. The equity awards were granted pursuant to the Nasdaq Rule 5635(c)(4) inducement grant exception as a component of each individual’s employment compensation and were granted as an inducement material to his or her acceptance of employment with the Company. The RSUs will vest in twelve (12) equal quarterly installments through the third anniversary of the closing date, subject to the applicable employee’s continued employment with the Company.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

Streamlight Launches Portable Scene Light III With 10,000-Lumen Output and a Modular Design

Friday, April 24th, 2026

New Waterproof Lighting System Introduced at FDIC International

EAGLEVILLE, PA, April 23, 2026 – Streamlight®, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, has launched the Portable Scene Light III (PSL III), a high-output, waterproof lighting system delivering up to 10,000 lumens for fire, emergency response, military, industrial, and outdoor applications. The new system debuted at FDIC International in Indianapolis, IN.

The PSL III delivers powerful, adaptable performance featuring 12 LEDs with wide-pattern reflectors, providing uniform scene illumination and three output levels to match the task. On High, it provides 10,000 lumens and 121,000 candela for maximum scene illumination with a 2-hour run time. Medium offers 5,000 lumens and 61,000 candela for balanced output and extended 4-hour operation, while Low delivers 2,500 lumens and 38,000 candela with up to 8 hours of run time for longer-duration use.

Designed for flexibility in the field, the PSL III features a 5-in-1 modular design that can be used with or without the included tripod. The system is equipped with swappable lithium-ion batteries, along with AC and DC power options for extended operation. A quick-mount system and a single-button tripod release enables fast setup. The 360° rotating, 180° pivoting light head allows for precise positioning exactly where illumination is needed. Even when mounted on the tripod, the light remains fully rotatable, offering added flexibility to adjust the angle without repositioning on the base. An available wireless remote provides full control from up to 75 feet away and can be paired with multiple lights for synchronized operation.

A key enhancement to Streamlight’s Portable Scene Light family is the PSL III’s tripod system, which is engineered for enhanced stability, storage, and field versatility. The tripod extends up to 92 inches and features reversible feet, including spiked ends for secure placement on uneven or soft terrain and flat feet for hard surfaces. The tripod is wind-resistant up to 40 mph. Integrated battery management includes two cradles to keep backup power readily accessible. The lightweight design and built-in carry handle support easy transport and rapid deployment.

“Whether on the fireground, emergency scenes or complex worksites, reliable lighting is critical for safety, visibility, and operational efficiency,” said Michael F. Dineen, Streamlight President. “The Portable Scene Light III delivers high-lumen output, rapid deployment, and flexible power options to support crews in dynamic, low-light environments.”

The PSL III is IPX7-rated (waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes) with the battery installed and IPX4-rated without the battery installed. It features glove-friendly controls and a rugged, impact-resistant thermoplastic housing intended for indoor or outdoor use.

The light head measures 7.5 inches long, 7 inches wide, and 9 inches high and weighs 7.5 lbs. with included battery. The tripod collapses to 37.7 inches for transport and extends up to 92 inches with spiked feet or 88 inches with flat feet. It weighs 13.3 lbs and comes equipped with an integrated carry handle for easy transportation. The total weight of the light and tripod when mounted is 23.5 lbs.

The Portable Scene Light III system has an MSRP of $1,759 and the Portable Scene Light III – Light only has an MSRP of $1,014. Both are backed by Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.

For more information, visit www.streamlight.com.

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

B.E. Meyers & Co. Names Coulson Aviation USA First Reseller Specific to Aerial Firefighting and Wildfire Management

Friday, April 24th, 2026

Aerial firefighting is one of the most demanding and precise operations in emergency response.

When wildfires outrun crews on the ground, aircraft become the front line – fighting with calculated accuracy to slow the spread of the threat and protect lives, homes and critical infrastructure in its path.

Cooling temperatures, reduced wind and rising humidity at night make for the ideal environment to turn the tables on a raging fire.

B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc., a Defense Technology Manufacturer specializing in advanced photonic solutions for military, law enforcement, consumer and aerospace applications worldwide, is proud to announce Coulson Aviation USA as their first reseller specific to Aerial Firefighting and Wildfire Management. Currently promoting B.E. Meyers & Co.’s IZLID200P series of laser systems for air-to-ground integration in support of communication during aerial wildfire management operations under night vision devices, Coulson Aviation is the first aerial firefighting company to aggressively develop innovative, industry-changing nighttime fire suppression technology and protocols for successful and safe after dark operations.

The B.E. Meyers & Co. IZLID® 200P is a compact, lightweight IR laser for pointing and marking by military forces. Ideal as a command pointer, for target marking and for communication with aircraft, a simple adjustment turns the laser into an IR illuminator for rapid identification with night vision goggles (NVGs) or IR sensors.

Coulson Aviation pioneered nighttime aerial firefighting, leveraging advanced technologies, like the IZLID® 200P, to combat wildfires when conditions are most favorable.

The B.E. Meyers & Co. IZLID® 200P is small enough to fit in the user’s pocket for quick access when needed. It’s powerful enough to call in airstrikes or aim weapons over a range of 39 km. The small size, light weight, but powerful aiming beam combined with the six-degree field of view IR illuminator capability, is routinely used on aircraft-mounted weapons and by pilots to point out or illuminate ground targets from the cockpit.

To properly battle a blaze under the favorable conditions of nighttime darkness, Coulson Aviation crews work in constant communication with ground teams, acting as force multipliers in rapidly changing conditions. Aerial firefighting isn’t just about fighting flames from the sky – it’s about buying time, creating opportunity and standing between disaster and the communities in its path.

Currently Coulson Aviation supports Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura County fire departments with very large helitankers, pilots and support crews as a part of the company’s ongoing partnership with Southern California Edison (SCE) and the Quick Reaction Force (QRF) program. The Coulson QRF is a 24/7/365 aerial task force changing how fires are fought from the air via a combination of speed, power and technology.

Since the release of the IZLID® 200P, B.E. Meyers & Co. has set the standard for high powered Near-Infrared laser pointers and illuminators. The IZLID® series is used in TACP, CCT, JTAC, SOTAC, ANGLICO and JFO applications and for other air-to-ground integration and communication needs. It’s now a widely used product by military, first responders and search and rescue agencies around the world – chosen for its high power, ergonomics and ruggedness.

This strategic partnership between B.E. Meyers & Co., and Coulson Aviation is the next evolution of high-powered, nocturnal aerial firefighter communication and situational awareness. B.E. Meyers & Co.’s revolutionary technologies create a substantial battlefield advantage to help aerial firefighters ensure mission success and bring them home safely.

For more information on the IZLID® 200P and other B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc products, visit bemeyers.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Lights, Press Release | Comments Off on B.E. Meyers & Co. Names Coulson Aviation USA First Reseller Specific to Aerial Firefighting and Wildfire Management

Major Order Worth Billions: Rheinmetall to Supply the Bundeswehr with FV-014 Loitering Munition

Thursday, April 23rd, 2026

Rheinmetall has received a major order from the Bundeswehr for FV-014 loitering munition systems. A contract to that effect was signed today in Koblenz. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2027, following qualification from the second quarter of 2026. The framework contract is worth billions, with the first call-off amounting to approximately €300m gross. The order will be booked in April 2026. The framework agreement optionally includes a five-figure number of FV-014 autonomous recce and strike drones.

“Within a very short time, Rheinmetall has developed an autonomous drone that combines reconnaissance and strike capabilities. The FV-014 will enable the Bundeswehr to protect its own forces and engage critical targets in a fast, controlled and effective manner. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and will begin producing the system in large quantities on an industrial scale very soon”, said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG.

The FV-014 loitering munition system has a range of up to 100 km and is equipped with a 4 kg warhead and detonator mechanism. The drone can remain airborne for up to 70 minutes, monitoring targets until engaging on them. The system combines intelligence and firepower and is manufactured entirely within the EU.

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

Tiberius Aerospace Achieves World-First in Artillery: Liquid-fuelled Ramjet Ignition Successfully Achieved from a NATO-Standard 155mm Howitzer

Thursday, April 23rd, 2026

Tiberius Aerospace, a modern defence technology company built to empower the UK, US and their global allies with next-generation weapon systems and AI-powered solutions, has successfully demonstrated, for the first time, that a liquid-fuelled ramjet projectile can be launched from a NATO-standard 155mm howitzer, achieve ramjet ignition and perform as intended in flight. This liquid fuel breakthrough, achieved during recent test firings of its Sceptre system in New Mexico, represents a fundamental shift in what artillery systems are capable of delivering on the modern battlefield.

Sceptre is a 155mm precision-guided munition designed for full compatibility with existing NATO-standard artillery systems. The latest round of testing confirmed that it can reach ranges of up to 150 kilometres, travel at speeds of approximately Mach 3.5 and operate at altitudes exceeding 65,000 feet beyond typical jamming range. It delivers a 5.2kg payload with a circular error probability (CEP) of less than 5 metres, even in GPS-contested environments, and requires no modifications to current artillery platforms. The system is designed with a modular, open architecture that allows for continuous upgrades and uses widely available fuels such as diesel variants (JP-4 and JP-8), reducing the logistical burden associated with deployment.

A critical milestone in these trials was the successful ignition of the liquid-fuelled ramjet following exposure to launch forces of approximately 18,000 g, alongside the validation of stable flight dynamics, controlled rotation and the effective deployment of in-flight stabilisation systems.

Together, these results demonstrate that the technology is not only viable in theory but can function reliably in operationally relevant conditions. In practical terms, this successful test firing shows that it is now possible to combine the long range and speed typically associated with missile systems with significant cost savings, flexibility and the deployability of traditional artillery. This creates a new category of capability that sits between conventional artillery and high-end missile systems, addressing a long-standing gap in military capability.

While missile systems provide range and accuracy, they remain expensive and constrained in supply. Conventional artillery, by contrast, is scalable and cost-effective but limited in range and capability. Sceptre bridges this gap by offering missile-like performance while retaining the production advantages and flexibility of artillery systems. When enabled by Tiberius Aerospace’s AI-powered GRAIL platform, Sceptre has the potential to materially increase the volume of precision firepower available to allied forces, reduce reliance on high-cost missile inventories and enable faster, more scalable production at a time when industrial capacity is under strain. Crucially, the system is designed to support licensed domestic manufacturing, enabling allied nations to produce Sceptre within their own industrial base, strengthening sovereign capability, shortening supply chains and accelerating time to field. It also supports a shift towards more resilient, sovereign and distributed manufacturing models across allied defence ecosystems.

Chad Steelberg, Founder and CEO of Tiberius Aerospace, said: “This is a genuine world first breakthrough. These tests prove not only the technology, but a new way of delivering capability at pace, at scale and at significantly lower cost. Having successfully proved our design and engineering methodologies, we now need to move to much larger ranges to deliver the next phase of testing, validation and certification. Sceptre is an ambitious and complex project, but these successful US test firing results prove we are quickly advancing along the right trajectory.”

Posted in Ammo, Industry, International, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Wilson Combat Acquires Guncrafter Industries

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026

Berryville, AR — Wilson Combat is proud to announce the immediate acquisition of the Guncrafter Industries brand and assets, bringing together two of the most respected names in American custom firearms manufacturing. This strategic acquisition unites decades of innovation, precision engineering, and uncompromising craftsmanship under one banner while preserving the distinct heritage that defines each brand.

Founded by Bill Wilson, Wilson Combat has built a global reputation for producing world-class 1911 pistols, premium defensive firearms, and high-performance accessories trusted by professionals and enthusiasts alike. Guncrafter Industries, founded by Alex Zimmermann, is widely recognized for its pioneering development of the .50 GI cartridge and its line of meticulously crafted single and double stack 1911 pistols, earning a loyal following through its commitment to quality, reliability, and attention to detail.

“This is a natural fit for both companies,” said Bill Wilson, Founder and CEO of Wilson Combat. “Guncrafter Industries has built an outstanding reputation for innovation and craftsmanship, and we share a common philosophy when it comes to quality and performance. We are excited to welcome their team and continue building on the strong foundation they’ve created.”

The acquisition reflects a shared commitment to excellence. Both companies emphasize hand-fit precision, rigorous testing, and a relentless pursuit of performance in every firearm produced. Customers can expect continuity in product quality, customer service, and the unique identity that has made Guncrafter a standout name in the custom pistol market.

Operations will continue with a focus on maintaining Guncrafter’s established product lines while leveraging Wilson Combat’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, engineering expertise, and distribution network to support future growth and innovation. The combined strengths of both organizations will create new opportunities for product development while reinforcing the standards customers expect.

Alex Zimmermann will remain involved in an advisory and developmental capacity, ensuring continuity and guiding future innovation.

Wilson Combat remains committed to honoring the legacy of Guncrafter Industries while building upon its success—ensuring both brands continue to represent the finest traditions of American firearms craftsmanship. During this transition, we ask for your patience and understanding as we work through integration details and align operations.

A note to our Guncrafter Customers:
As we integrate the Guncrafter brand into the Wilson Combat family of companies, please bear with us while we work through the details. Our focus is on getting this right, so every Guncrafter customer continues to receive the quality and service the brand is known for. More updates will follow in the coming weeks, including information on existing orders, service, and what’s next for the lineup. Thank you for your patience. We look forward to serving you.

Posted in Firearms, Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

US Army Announces New Combat Field Test to Enhance Soldier Readiness

Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army today announced the implementation of the new Combat Field Test (CFT), a major update to its physical readiness program designed to align fitness standards with the demanding realities of modern combat.

Implementation will begin in April 2026. The CFT is required annually for active-duty Soldiers serving in 24 designated combat military occupational specialties.

“The Combat Field Test is a critical step forward in ensuring our Soldiers serving in the most physically demanding specialties have the specific fitness required to dominate on the modern battlefield,” said the Secretary of the Army Hon. Dan Driscoll. “This is about readiness, lethality, and the well-being of our Soldiers.”

The CFT does not replace the Army Fitness Test. Combat specialty Soldiers in the Regular Army and Reserve Component on active-duty orders will be required to pass one of each test annually. All other Reserve Component Soldiers in combat specialties will take one fitness test per calendar year, alternating between the AFT and CFT.

The CFT is a seven-event sequence conducted continuously and scored on total time. Events include:

A one-mile run.

30 dead-stop push-ups.

A 100-meter sprint.

16 lifts of a 40-pound sandbag onto a 65-inch platform.

A 50-meter carry of two five-gallon Army water cans weighing 40 pounds each.

A 50-meter movement drill consisting of a 25-meter high crawl and a 25-meter 3-5 second rush.

A final one-mile run.

Soldiers must complete the test in 30 minutes or less while wearing the Army Combat Uniform, combat boots and a brown T-shirt, with no cover.

“This isn’t just about passing a test; it’s a direct measure of our commitment to readiness and ensuring our warfighters can dominate in any environment,” said Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Weimer. “We’re asking more of our combat arms Soldiers, and this test validates their ability to meet that high standard.”

To allow time for adaptation, no adverse administrative actions will be taken for failing the CFT during an initial 365-day diagnostic period for Regular Army and active-duty Reserve Component Soldiers, and a 730-day period for all other Reserve Component Soldiers. During this phase, Soldiers may request voluntary reclassification to a non-combat specialty if they determine they cannot meet the standard, allowing the Army to retain valuable talent.

The CFT establishes a single, mission-based standard aligned to the demands of combat to ensure readiness and lethality. All Soldiers in designated combat roles must meet the same passing criteria, regardless of age or sex.

The Army will provide support to Soldiers preparing for the CFT through command-led physical training programs, Holistic Health and Fitness resources, and a dedicated CFT microsite with additional guidance. For more information on the Combat Field Test, visit the Army Fitness Test website.

Via US Army Public Affairs

Posted in Army, Press Release, Profession of Arms, Warrior Athlete | 2 Comments »