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DroneShield Announces South Australia R&D Facility

Tuesday, October 7th, 2025

DroneShield will invest $13 million over three years to establish a new counter-drone R&D facility in Adelaide, Australia.
The new facility will be led by Jeff Wojtiuk, a former Lockheed Martin Australia defence engineering leader with a strong background in RF design and electronic warfare.
Together with planned expansions to its Australian and international R&D footprint, including the new Adelaide facility, DroneShield’s has this week reached a significant company milestone, surpassing 400 employees globally.
This expansion in South Australia is concurrent with DroneShield’s Sydney, European, and US manufacturing initiatives, against the backdrop of record global demand and surging drone attacks.

DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-drone and electronic warfare (EW) solutions, is pleased to announce a $13 million investment in a new research and development (R&D) facility in Adelaide, South Australia.

This $13 million investment is a direct contribution to South Australia’s economy, covering three years of operational and capital expenditure. It will initially create around 20 high-skilled engineering roles in Adelaide, focused on radio frequency (RF) electronics, EW, and systems integration, to directly support DroneShield’s mission to deliver cutting-edge defence technologies.

The South Australian expansion complements DroneShield’s existing engineering operations in Sydney and supports the Company’s continued growth in advanced RF electronics and EW capabilities. Adelaide has been chosen due to its proximity to leading global defence and aerospace organisations, a highly skilled engineering workforce, and established infrastructure supporting advanced technology development, particularly in EW and RF systems.

The announcement comes as DroneShield reaches a significant company milestone, this week surpassing 400 employees globally, nearly doubling its team in the past year and more than quadrupling it over the last two years. Approximately 300 of these employees are software and hardware engineers, reinforcing DroneShield’s position as a world-leading technology company focused on delivering advanced defence capabilities. The Company also has around 100 open roles, reflecting its commitment to delivering on its technology roadmap and supporting customers and allies with speed and scale.

DroneShield Chief Executive, Oleg Vornik, said, “South Australia is recognised as a national leader in defence and space industries, with Adelaide home to a highly skilled and experienced workforce. Establishing our first R&D office in Australia outside of our Sydney Headquarters – in Adelaide – is a strategic move that supports DroneShield’s mission to deliver world-leading counter-drone and EW solutions.”

“DroneShield’s growth to 400 employees globally – with the majority of our team being engineers – reflects our commitment to deep technical capability and delivery.”

DroneShield Chief Product and Technology Officer, Angus Bean, said, “DroneShield’s new R&D facility in Adelaide marks a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring our technology roadmap is being supported by the best engineering minds nationally. Our new facility is critical to accelerating the development of our next-generation counter-drone and EW technologies, while expanding our engineering footprint and supporting critical project development for global customers”.

Premier of South Australia, The Hon Peter Malinauskas, said, “South Australia is the Defence State, and has been recognised by the Business Council as the best place in the country to do business. We welcome DroneShield making the choice to conduct research and development here in Adelaide, creating 20 highly skilled engineering roles. As a Government, we have a strong focus on growing our Research and Development ecosystem, which has the capacity to build our economic complexity and our state’s prosperity.”

DroneShield’s South Australian R&D facility will be led by Jeff Wojtiuk, a leading Australian engineer who specialises in radio frequency technologies. Jeff brings over two decades of experience in defence and aerospace systems engineering, with a strong background in RF design, EW, and complex systems integration. He has held senior engineering roles across major defence programs – including over a decade of experience at Lockheed Martin Australia – and has contributed to the development of advanced radar and communications technologies. His expertise will be instrumental in shaping the technical direction of DroneShield’s new Adelaide facility.

The new site is expected to be fully up and running by March 2026.

Image: DroneShield’s anechoic chamber supports research and development contributing to the Company’s world-leading counter-drone technologies

The South Australia R&D expansion comes as DroneShield is going through expansion of its annual production capacity from $500m to $2.4bn by end of 2026, including setting up European and US manufacturing; as well as R&D expansion in the US.

Posted in C-UAS, Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on DroneShield Announces South Australia R&D Facility

Shield Arms Announces DS-Series Increased Capacity Magazines for Glock 9mm Pistols: DS-18 and DS-20 Available Soon

Tuesday, October 7th, 2025

Bigfork, Montana manufacturer announces increased capacity Glock 19 and Glock 17 magazines with innovative over-insertion stop technology

BIGFORK, MT – October 7, 2025 – Shield Arms, a premier manufacturer of aftermarket Glock magazines and firearm accessories, today announced its DS-Series increased capacity magazines for Glock double stack 9mm pistols. The new product line includes the DS-18 magazine for Glock 19 and the DS-20 magazine for Glock 17, 34, 45, 47, and 19X models.

Increased Magazine Capacity: DS-18 and DS-20 Specifications

The Shield Arms DS-Series delivers what other aftermarket Glock magazines have never achieved: +3 round capacity increase in nearly the same footprint as factory magazines, combined with OEM-style reliability features.

DS-18 Glock 19 Magazine: 18-round capacity magazine for Glock 19 pistols, providing +3 rounds over OEM Glock factory capacity (standard 15 rounds) with only a minimal increase in overall magazine length.

DS-20 Glock 17 Magazine: 20-round capacity magazine compatible with Glock 17, Glock 34, Glock 45, Glock 47, and Glock 19X pistols, offering +3 rounds over factory Glock magazines (standard 17 rounds) with only a minimal increase in overall magazine length.

Additional magazines both smaller and larger coming in the DS-Series!

Innovative Over-Insertion Stop Technology

Both DS-Series Glock magazines feature an over-insertion stop precision-stamped directly into the steel magazine body—a critical reliability feature found in Glock factory magazines but missing in competitors aftermarket Glock magazines.

This feature ensures proper magazine seating depth, prevents over-insertion that can cause ejector damage, feeding malfunctions, and delivers factory-spec reliability. The result is an aftermarket Glock magazine that functions with the same mechanical precision as OEM magazines while providing +3 round capacity advantage.

“The DS-Series represents a breakthrough in aftermarket Glock magazine design,” said Brandon Zeider, CEO of Shield Arms. “We’ve achieved what the market has been asking for: significantly more capacity in nearly the same size as factory magazines, combined with the over-insertion stop feature that ensures OEM-level reliability. These magazines give Glock users the best of both worlds – extra rounds when it matters most, without sacrificing the profile or dependable function they expect from their pistols.”

Availability and Product Options

Shield Arms DS-Series magazines will be available soon through our Distributors and Retail Partners, internationally through our International Distributors, and on our website. Customers can purchase individual DS-18 and DS-20 magazines, or explore complete DS-Series combos and DS-Series magazine extensions for additional customization options.

Product pages and ordering information:

Shield Arms homepage

DS-Series Glock magazines

DS-Series magazine combos

DS-Series magazine extensions

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Shield Arms Announces DS-Series Increased Capacity Magazines for Glock 9mm Pistols: DS-18 and DS-20 Available Soon

Milrem Robotics to Deliver over 150 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine in a Dutch-Led Defence Initiative?

Tuesday, October 7th, 2025

Milrem Robotics—the world’s leading robotics and autonomous systems developer—will deliver over 150 THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) to Ukraine as part of a donation funded and coordinated by the Netherlands. A significant portion of these vehicles will be assembled and delivered in collaboration with VDL Defentec.

The donation was initially announced in September, however, the identity of the contributing country was not disclosed. On 6 October, the Dutch Minister of Defence, Ruben Brekelmans, joined Milrem Robotics and VDL for a formal announcement and signing ceremony at VDL’s facility in Born to mark the agreement.

The deliveries will be executed by Milrem Robotics Netherlands in close cooperation with VDL Defentec, which is establishing a dedicated final assembly line at its Born facility. The assembly setup is designed for scalability, enabling further production and deliveries in response to future requirements.

Milrem Robotics will deliver comprehensive training to Ukrainian operators and support staff to ensure efficient deployment and maintenance in the field.

“We are honoured to lead this project in partnership with the Netherlands and VDL. The THeMIS platform has already demonstrated its value under combat conditions, and we believe this contribution will materially strengthen Ukraine’s defence capability,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.

“This initiative highlights the strength of cooperation between partners in Europe’s defence industry and their ability to scale up and contribute directly to international security. Establishing the assembly line in Born supports this donation and creates a foundation for future production and innovation between Milrem Robotics and VDL in the Netherlands,” said Willem van der Leegte, CEO of VDL Groep.

The new units will add to the 15 THeMIS vehicles already in operation in Ukraine, which have been proving their effectiveness on the battlefield since 2022.

THeMIS is a proven and highly adaptable unmanned vehicle platform designed to support dismounted forces, logistics, reconnaissance, and combat support missions. It is currently part of robotics programmes or in service in 19 countries, making it the most widely deployed UGV in its class.

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Milrem Robotics to Deliver over 150 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine in a Dutch-Led Defence Initiative?

BlackPoint Tactical Launches Duty Series Holsters

Tuesday, October 7th, 2025

ALPHARETTA, GA, October 6, 2025 – BlackPoint Tactical, a High Speed Gear Products Group brand, long known for their innovative concealment holsters, proudly announces the launch of its latest productfamily: The BlackPoint Duty Series featuring the Enhanced Duty Holster (EDH) and Slick Duty Holster (SDH), BlackPoint’s first holsters featuring additional levels of retention. These products were designed and engineered specifically for law enforcement, military, and prepared citizens who demand uncompromising security during the most demanding encounters, while providing a draw mechanic that remains smooth, fast, and consistent.

Based off the Master Grip Concept, the user can comfortably depress the retention lever to deactivate the retention mechanisms without the hand articulation and movement required to manipulate other duty holsters on the market today. The consistent grip allows for a fast, consistent draw stroke leading to more accurate and faster rounds on target. Further, the continuity in the mechanics of the retention lever activation is consistent across all levels of retention. This patented feature translates across the company’s product lines into the Taser holsters, diminishing training hurdles based on which system is utilized. Available in light compatible and non-light compatible models, the Duty Series offers several features not seen previously in a Duty Holster. One of these features is the patent pending SHIM™ system. By changing which SHIM™ is installed, the holster can be configured to fit different weapon lights. As your equipment changes, your gear can adapt with you. At launch, SHIMs are available to support the TLR-7, TLR-1, and x300 U/A models with more coming later in 2025.

Other key features of the BlackPoint Duty Series are as follows:

• Retention Levels: Available in 3 level (EDH family) and 2 level models(SDH family).

• Full Coverage Trigger Guard: Minimizes any object from entering trigger guard while pistol is holstered.

• Optics Cover: Optional Optic Cover to help enclose the optic cavity when holster hood is closed

• Barrel Plug: Allows the holster to function with or without the weapon light attached.

• Retention Lever Overdrive: Lever range of travel beyond release enhancing draw performance.

• Lever Extender: Extends the retention lever to enhance ergonomics based on user preference.

• Material Thickness: Holster features durable unibody 0.125” KYDEX® design.

• Mounting: Compatible with mounts from popular 3rd parties. *Adapter Plate Required

“The design team thoughtfully executed every detail of this holster based on feedback from real-world operators,” said Gary Robbins, Director of Law Enforcement Business Development at High Speed Gear. “This is the next evolution in professional duty gear and stay tuned, because there is more to come”.

“When you consider duty holsters, this is a piece of gear that must perform 100% of the time,” said Tyler Johnson, VP of Sales and Finance. “The BlackPoint Duty Series upholds that commitment and provides a strong alternative to individuals and agencies which have longed for innovative options in the market. BlackPoint is excited to enter this market and complement the industry-leading options offered by High Speed Gear.”

The BlackPoint Enhanced Duty Holster is available for pre-orders through company websites and dealers. Additional firearms compatibility will be added on an ongoing basis. Please continue to check back for information on new models.

For more information about the BlackPoint Duty Series, please visit:
blackpointtactical.com/shop/category/duty-series

Posted in Advertiser, Holsters, Press Release | Comments Off on BlackPoint Tactical Launches Duty Series Holsters

Henry Repeating Arms Expands Spirit of the Corps Rifle Series for Marine Corps’ 250th Anniversary

Monday, October 6th, 2025

RICE LAKE, Wis., Oct. 2, 2025 — Henry Repeating Arms, one of America’s leading firearms manufacturers, is building upon the success of its now sold-out and discontinued salute to the United States Marine Corps’ 250thanniversary with two new models: the Spirit of the Corps 250th Anniversary 2nd Edition .22 S/L/LR and the Spirit of the Corps 250th Anniversary .45-70 Gov’t.

“The response to the first rifle was remarkable, and we knew we had to continue this milestone collection for those who missed out the first time around,” said Anthony Imperato, Founder and CEO of Henry Repeating Arms. “These new models pay homage to the branch’s 250 years of being both sword and shield for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans, and the millions of men and women who have answered the call to serve amongst its ranks.”

Spirit of the Corps 250th Anniversary 2ndEdition .22 S/L/LR (H004MC2)
Built on the award-winning and world-renowned Golden Boy platform, this lever-action rimfire rifle features mechanically transferred engravings based on a hand-engraved master plate for maximum clarity with 24K gold-plated highlights against a nickel-plated backdrop. The genuine American walnut buttstock showcases full-color portraits throughout history standing in front of the flag of the United States of America, while the forearm bears the banner: “In the Air, On Land, And Sea.” The MSRP is $1,350.

Spirit of the Corps 250th Anniversary Edition .45-70 Gov’t (H010BGMC)
Introduced in direct response to customer feedback requesting a larger caliber option for the series, this rifle is chambered in the powerful and historic .45-70 Government, a cartridge once used by the United States Marine Corps until 1897. It pairs a nickel-plated, hardened brass receiver with 24K gold highlights and upgraded Semi-Fancy American Walnut furniture. The receiver features inscriptions from the Marines’ Hymn, while the buttstock depicts a crowd of hands triumphantly raising the U.S. flag. The MSRP is $2,360.

Both rifles are made in Wisconsin and backed by Henry Repeating Arms’ Lifetime Warranty and 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. They are available now through Henry dealers nationwide. For more information, visit the product page at henryusa.com.

These rifles are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially licensed by the U.S. Department of Defense or any of its branches.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release, USMC | 1 Comment »

Outdoor Research Named Staff Apparel Sponsor for Industry Day at the Range 2026

Monday, October 6th, 2025

BOULDER CITY, Nev. – October 2, 2025 – SHOT Show® Industry Day at the Range, the highly anticipated hands-on event held annually the day before SHOT Show®, is thrilled to announce Outdoor Research as the official Staff Apparel Sponsor of the 21st annual event, taking place January 19, 2026, at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada.

This collaboration marks a new chapter in elevating the on-site experience for Industry Day staff, who will be fully outfitted in technical apparel from Outdoor Research. Known for its commitment to innovation, performance and protection in the outdoors, Outdoor Research’s support ensures the event staff will be equipped with the gear they need to perform in all conditions throughout the day.

“We’re proud to support the SHOT SHOW Range Day team as the official Staff Apparel Sponsor,” said Nick Smith, senior tactical brand manager at Outdoor Research. “This event showcases the cutting edge of the tactical and outdoor sports industries, and we’re proud to outfit the staff in the same mission-ready gear trusted by professionals operating in the world’s most demanding environments.”

Industry Day offers an unparalleled opportunity for exhibitors to introduce new products, engage with top-tier media and influencers and create direct connections with SHOT Show attendees in a hands-on environment. This exclusive event provides early momentum that extends well into the SHOT Show itself, ensuring maximum exposure for brands ahead of the main event.

“Having Outdoor Research join us as the Staff Apparel Sponsor is a perfect fit,” said Kelsey Puryear, Industry Day at the Range co-owner. “Its dedication to function, comfort and quality aligns perfectly with the needs of our team on the ground. We’re excited to have them be a part of the 2026 event.”

The sponsorship by Outdoor Research enhances the professionalism and cohesion of Industry Day at the Range. As a respected leader in technical outdoor gear, Outdoor Research brings added credibility and industry alignment to the event, reinforcing its reputation as the premier range day in the shooting sports industry.

Supported by the National Shooting Sports Foundation as title sponsor through 2028, Industry Day at the Range remains the only official range event associated with the SHOT Show. Exhibitor space is limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged.

New exhibitors can register online now to secure their space. Sponsorship information is also available online. For additional details and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit the event website.

For more information about the 2026 SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range visit ShotShowRangeDay.com.

Posted in Clothing, Industry, Press Release, SHOT Show | Comments Off on Outdoor Research Named Staff Apparel Sponsor for Industry Day at the Range 2026

NEXTORCH TA30D MAX: Power & Thermal Control for Tactical Operations

Monday, October 6th, 2025

Seattle, WA – (September 30th, 2025) – NEXTORCH North America, the primary U.S. distributor of global manufacturer NEXTORCH Industries, proudly introduces the TA30D MAXTactical Flashlight. Delivering a powerful 4000 lumens of output that can blast a beam 450 meters (492 yards), the TA30D Max combines its compact size with maximum tactical performance. Since its debut, it has become a trusted companion for law enforcement, military personnel, emergency responders, and tactical professionals around the world.

Power Meets Performance

The TA30D MAX is built for professionals who require both tactical responsiveness and long-range illumination. The TA30D MAX is not only a tactical tool, it’s also a compact searchlight capable of handling wide-area scanning, perimeter defense, and long-range threat detection.

Designed for instinctive use under pressure, the TA30D MAXfeatures NEXTORCH’s patented one-step strobe technology. A quick press of the tail switch instantly activates the disorienting strobe function, while a half-press engages high output for threat identification or search operations. A magnetic rotary mode selector ensures smooth switching between brightness levels even while wearing gloves or in high-stress scenarios.

Most high-output flashlights suffer from heat buildup leading to throttling (reduced brightness), discomfort, or even the risk of burn. The TA30D Max patented Ultra Thermal Buffer (U.T.B.)system changes that dynamic. It delays or prevents thermal throttling while maintaining full performance, not just short bursts. This third-generation temperature control system, uses phase-change materials plus an intelligent chip to maintain peak brightness while keeping the grip under 50°C (120°F).

Rugged, Field-Tested Construction

Built from 6061-T6 aerospace-grade aluminum and fitted with a titanium alloy bezel embedded with nano-ceramic glass breakers, the TA30D MAX is engineered to endure extreme conditions. It is IPX8 waterproof, impact-tested to 2 meters (6.5 ft), and designed for high-stakes use in the field.

Key Features:

• 4000 lumens max output

• 450-meter (492 yards) beam distance

• 50,625 candela

• Ultra Thermal Buffer System

• USB-C rechargeable 21700 battery (included)

• IPX8 waterproof & impact resistance to 3 meters (6.5 ft)

MSRP: $137.99

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 TA30D MAX: Power & Thermal Control for Tactical Operations

Shield of Odin Responds to VA Backlog: Offering Veterans an Alternative Pathway to Overcome Delayed Disability Claims

Sunday, October 5th, 2025

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 2, 2025 — The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) currently reports a disability claims backlog of more than 190,000 unresolved cases across the country. While this marks progress compared to historic highs, veterans are still facing average wait times of 12 to 18 months — and in many cases, delays stretching two years or morebefore receiving a decision.

In recent years, the backlog has swelled dramatically, topping 300,000 cases and even approaching 400,000 at its peak, driven in part by the implementation of the PACT Act and a surge of new claims related to toxic exposure. For veterans with urgent health needs, these numbers translate into months — and often years — of uncertainty, lost income, and untreated conditions.

Shield of Odin, a veteran-focused healthcare and medical-legal services provider, is working to close that gap by offering veterans an alternative pathway to strengthen their claims and avoid repeated cycles of denials and appeals. Through its nationwide network of licensed physicians, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and vocational experts, the organization provides independent medical evaluations, Nexus Letters, Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs), vocational assessments, and peer-reviewed evidence tailored to VA rating criteria.

The goal: ensure veterans can submit fully developed claims that stand on solid medical-legal evidence, reducing the risk of denial and expediting access to benefits.

“The VA’s official backlog today is just under 200,000 claims — but anyone watching this system knows how quickly those numbers can rise, and how devastating the wait can be,” said Ryan Hawley, CEO of Shield of Odin. “For a veteran with lung disease from burn pit exposure or PTSD from combat service, being forced to wait 18 months or longer is not simply a delay; it’s a barrier to care, stability, and dignity. Our mission at Shield of Odin is to ensure those veterans are not left behind.”

Shield of Odin emphasizes that the backlog is not merely a matter of statistics but of lived human impact. Veterans awaiting benefits often face mounting medical costs, difficulty maintaining employment, and mental health struggles as they navigate a system strained by volume and complexity.

“The averages don’t tell the full story — behind every number is a veteran and a family in crisis,”said Dean Johnston, COO of Shield of Odin and a board member of Heros of the Sea. “We see veterans waiting 24 months or more for a claim to move forward. Some pass away before ever receiving a decision. That’s why we’ve built a system to provide timely, accurate evidence that can cut through the bureaucracy and accelerate the process.”

VA Backlog by the Numbers (2025)

Current backlog (May 2025): 190,000+ unresolved claims (VA official reporting)

Peak backlog in recent years: Over 300,000 cases, with spikes near 400,000

Average wait time: 12–18 months for resolution

Extended delays: 24+ months common in complex or toxic exposure cases

First-time claim denials: Nearly 70% linked to insufficient or incomplete medical evidence

Rural veterans: Face 30–40% longer waits due to limited examiner availability

(Sources: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA News, Military Times, Federal News Network, advocacy group analyses)

Shield of Odin’s Role in Solutions

Shield of Odin has developed a nationwide telehealth platform that connects veterans with qualified practitioners across all 50 states, ensuring even those in rural or underserved areas can access timely support. Services include:

Telehealth Nexus Letters and DBQs to establish medical connections between service and condition

Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) for complex or contested cases

Vocational impact assessments linking disabilities to occupational limitations

Peer-reviewed, evidence-based opinions aligned with VA rating criteria and legal precedent

By providing medical-legal documentation that is both rigorous and veteran-centric, Shield of Odin helps veterans avoid common pitfalls that result in denials, repeat appeals, and further time lost in the system.

Posted in Medical, Press Release, Veterans | Comments Off on Shield of Odin Responds to VA Backlog: Offering Veterans an Alternative Pathway to Overcome Delayed Disability Claims