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Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

Savox Communications and Nokia Announce Agreement to Explore Joint Development of Tactical Communications Solutions

Sunday, September 14th, 2025

Espoo, Finland – September 12, 2025 – Savox Communications Oy Ab (Ltd) (Savox) and Nokia Solutions and Networks Oy (Nokia) today announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the development of joint solutions in the defense communications space.

By combining their technical expertise, Savox and Nokia aim to create innovative solutions for tactical communications that provide unmatched connectivity, speed, and reliability for mission-critical operations. Under the agreement, this collaboration will explore:

Enhanced Connectivity: Leveraging 5G and 6G networks to provide seamless and ultra-fast communication channels for tactical operations, ensuring real-time data exchange and improved situational awareness.

Advanced Solutions: Developing innovative solutions that combine the strengths of both companies, such as secure communication devices, advanced encryption technologies, and robust network infrastructure.

Global Reach: Expanding the reach of tactical communication solutions to global markets, enabling defense and security forces worldwide to benefit from state-of-the-art technology and enhanced operational capabilities.

“By integrating Savox mission-critical audio, command and control solutions with Nokia´s advanced networks, we will deliver reliable, scalable communications tailored for the most demanding operations,” said Jerry Kettunen, CEO at Savox.

“Nokia is committed to innovation and excellence in communications technology,” said Giuseppe Targia, Head of Space and Defense, Nokia. “We look forward to working with Savox to create new and innovative solutions that will benefit our customers and the industry as a whole.”

Nokia and KONGSBERG Sign Agreement to Advance Defense Communications with 5G Technology

Saturday, September 13th, 2025
  • Collaboration combines the companies’ expertise in tactical communications and mobile networks to deliver advanced capabilities to defense forces and allied nations.
  • Focuses on deployable 5G solutions for field operations today, while exploring future technologies like 6G to boost situational awareness and military readiness

Espoo, Finland, September 11, 2025

Nokia and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG), Norway’ leading defense technology provider, specializing in advanced systems across land, sea, air, and space domains, today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on enhancing tactical communications solutions for the defense sector. The agreement brings together KONGSBERG’s expertise in military tactical communications and Nokia’s leadership in commercial 4G, 5G, and private wireless technologies to deliver secure, resilient, and high-performance networks for defense organizations and allied nations.

The collaboration will aim to simplify the deployment of 5G in tactical systems, enhancing reliable and interoperable battlefield communications. It will also explore opportunities including tactical 5G capabilities, integration with unmanned systems and sensors, and participation in European Defense Fund initiatives like 5G COMPAD and the Federated Advanced Cyber Physical Test Range (FACT) program. Longer term, the companies will look at future technologies such as Nokia’s 6G “network as a sensor” (Integrated Sensing and Communication) to enhance situational awareness and military readiness.

“By combining KONGSBERG’s tactical communication assets with Nokia’s leadership in industry-standard technologies, we can speed up the use of civilian telecom solutions in defense. Together, we’ll explore how 5G and 6G can support the developing connectivity requirements in tactical systems, from secure voice and real-time data to unmanned systems and advanced sensors,” said Kjetil R. Myhra, EVP Defence Systems at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

“Many of our products in Nokia are inherently dual-use, serving both commercial and military needs. This collaboration with KONGSBERG underscores our commitment to providing advanced, secure and fast 5G mobile networks and integrating Nokia’s Banshee radio portfolio to strengthen operations capabilities for a range of tactical scenarios,” said Giuseppe Targia, Head of Space and Defense at Nokia.

American Rheinmetall Invests $31.7M in Michigan to Accelerate US Defense Modernization and Strengthen National Industrial Base

Saturday, September 13th, 2025

American Rheinmetall announced today a $31.7 million investment in its Michigan facilities, reinforcing its commitment to advancing U.S. defense capabilities, strengthening domestic supply chains, and expanding the skilled U.S. manufacturing workforce. The investment includes a move to a state-of-the-art, 168,056 sq. ft. facility in Auburn Hills, MI that will consolidate existing operations in Troy and Sterling Heights, and the creation of 450 new jobs across the enterprise, further demonstrating the company’s commitment as a hub for next-generation defense innovation.

This strategic investment positions American Rheinmetall to provide enhanced support for critical U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) programs, including the U.S. Army’s XM30 combat vehicle program, where the company is one of two prime contractors competing to deliver the Army’s next-generation combat vehicle platform to replace the M2 Bradley.

“This expansion represents a major step forward in strengthening our ability to deliver critical defense technologies to the U.S. military,” said Matt Warnick, CEO of American Rheinmetall. “It’s a direct investment in American manufacturing capacity and the skilled workforce that powers it.”

While the primary focus of the investment and new facility is on advanced defense products, American Rheinmetall’s capabilities also extend to the broader manufacturing sector—including precision components used in agricultural and commercial machinery. These products support American farmers by improving equipment durability, efficiency, and sustainability.

“Our Michigan operations are central to our U.S. growth strategy—not only in defense but across a range of markets where performance and reliability matter,” added Warnick. “From the battlefield to the heartland, we’re proud to support the industries that underpin national security and economic strength.”

The expansion directly supports national defense priorities by accelerating the modernization of U.S. military capabilities. It also bolsters industrial resilience by expanding domestic production capacity, not only in defense but across critical manufacturing sectors. The investment contributes to workforce development by creating 450 new jobs with highly competitive starting wages and benefits that are above the regional median wage. This initiative enhances the security of U.S. supply chains and reinforces the vital connection between national defense, economic strength, and the domestic manufacturing industrial base.

The new Auburn Hills site was selected after a competitive process involving eight other states. The decision was supported by the State of Michigan, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), and local partners.

Michigan’s deep engineering talent and strong heritage in defense and heavy equipment manufacturing made it the ideal location to deepen the company’s roots.

This investment follows American Rheinmetall’s recent acquisition of Loc Performance Products, another Michigan-based defense supplier, further enhancing the company’s ability to deliver integrated, scalable solutions across its defense portfolio.

Royal Visit Celebrates Pincroft Role in Military Textiles

Friday, September 12th, 2025

Pincroft Dyeing and Printing, a global leader in military fabric printing, dyeing and finishing, welcomed Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to its Adlington site in Lancashire on Tuesday 9 September 2025, to showcase a £1.5 million investment in advanced camouflage printing technology.

The Princess Royal, who serves as President of theUK Fashion and Textile Association, toured the upgraded production line, which includes a new rotary printer and laser engraving equipment. The visit highlighted how the company’s innovations support defence forces worldwide, with camouflage fabrics supplied to the UK Ministry of Defence, the Finnish Army, Estonian Defence Forces, Australian Defence, and others.

The visit was hosted by Group CEO John Vareldzis and Managing Director Mike Collins, with Her Royal Highness meeting technical managers, dyehouse and engraving specialists, as well as a select number of guests during the tour.

John Vareldzis said: “We are extremely privileged and honoured to have hosted Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at our factory and to showcase our latest investment in printing camouflage fabrics. This moment also highlights the dedication of our people, whose expertise underpins more than 130 years of textile heritage.”

The event concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion, celebrating Pincroft’s commitment to British manufacturing and global military excellence.

For more information and to view the photo gallery of the event, please visit pincroft.co.uk

GA-ASI and AeroVironment Complete First-Ever Air Launch of Switchblade 600 From MQ-9A UAS

Friday, September 12th, 2025

Release of Smaller Loitering Munition Further Validates Large UAS as Motherships

SAN DIEGO, September 10, 2025 (Newswire.com) – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and AeroVironment (“AV”) (NASDAQ:AVAV) collaborated on the air launch of a Switchblade 600 loitering munition (LM) from a GA-ASI Block 5 MQ-9A unmanned aircraft system (UAS). The flight testing took place from July 22-24 at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Grounds Test Range. It marked the first time a Switchblade 600 has ever been launched from an unmanned aircraft.

“This cooperative effort showcased how combining different unmanned technologies could really provide value and effects to the warfighter,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “By using MQ-9A to carry the Switchblade, the MQ-9A is able to stand off farther from enemy weapons systems and increase the range of the SB600, which will provide greater access and options in contested airspace.”

After successfully integrating the SB600 with the MQ-9A, the team released two LMs: one with an inert warhead and the other with a high-explosive round. After launch, the team transferred control of the Switchblade from a user in the MQ-9A’s ground control station to a user on the ground nearer the operational area.

The test further validated GA-ASI’s ability to integrate and operate a variety of airborne launched effects on the battlefield – including both those built by GA-ASI and by partners such as AV – and how their use in conflict provides risk-tolerant options to commanders in contested operations.

Aimpoint Celebrates 50 Years of Innovation and Excellence in Sighting Technology

Friday, September 12th, 2025

Manassas, Virginia – Aimpoint, the leading manufacturer and innovator of red dot sighting technology, celebrates a half a century of excellence in 2025. With the first prototype optic developed by a Swedish hunter in 1974, Aimpoint was formed in 1975 by family-owned Sandberg Development, and has garnered a reputation of extreme durability, reliability, and exclusivity. Celebrating the 50th anniversary, Aimpoint honors five decades of precision engineering and steadfast commitment to those who demand the very best. From the battlefield to backcountry, in competitions to everyday carry, Aimpoint® optics have remained the trusted choice for professionals and skilled enthusiasts who refuse to compromise.

THE ORIGINAL RED DOT SIGHT Beginning with a simple goal of improved accuracy and faster target acquisition, AIMPOINT sights have set the standard in red dot sighting technology and innovation. AIMPOINT products are subjected to brutal testing, including exposure to extreme heat, cold, physical abuse, and submersion under water. From arctic temperatures to desert sand, the ruggedness of AIMPOINT red dot sights stand up to any challenge. In 1997, Aimpoint rose to prominence in the United States when awarded a contract to supply the U.S. Army with 100,000 Aimpoint Comp® M sights, also known as the M68 Close Combat Optic (M68CCO). Since then, over 2 million red dot optics have been fielded by the U.S. Armed Forces. Today, AIMPOINT optics are also trusted by military forces, police agencies, and elite teams around the world. “This year marks a major milestone for all of Aimpoint and we are only getting started,” says Thane Smith, President, Aimpoint Inc. “As we celebrate throughout 2025, we are reminded of the legacy of innovation and commitment to the highest quality standards for providing optics to support every mission from personal protection to combat zones world-wide.”

D&M Holding Company to Highlight Propellant Manufacturing Capabilities at TADTE in Taiwan

Wednesday, September 10th, 2025

Tampa, FL. (September 10, 2025) – D&M Holding Company, Inc. (D&M), the global leader in delivering complete solutions for ammunition, primer, and propellant manufacturing facilities, is pleased to announce its attendance at TADTE (Taipei Aerospace and Defense Technology Exhibition) in Taiwan, September 18-20, 2025.  This biennial event gathers leading domestic and international enterprises, government agencies, and academic institutions to showcase the latest R&D achievements and comprehensive solutions. To learn more about D&M’s propellant manufacturing capabilities and other turnkey offerings, visit Stand J0921 in the USA Partnership Pavilion to meet with the D&M team.

D&M and the Ukrainian Defense Industry Joint Stock Company (JSC) recently announced a partnership to produce specialty chemicals in the United States to address the critical shortage of propellant used in the production of ammunition for the Ukrainian defense forces. Prior to this project, D&M built a multi-million-dollar ammunition facility in Ukraine for the Ukraine Defense Industry and has several other projects in the works there, including a primer facility.

“The need for reliable supplies of powder and ammunition is soaring globally as a matter of national security for nations throughout the world,” said Dan Powers, President and CEO, D&M Holding Company. “At D&M, we are working nonstop to support the US, NATO countries, and other friendly foreign governments. We are the only company in the industry that offers solutions for all ammunition components including ammunition factories, primer factories, and propellant factories, and this is one of many advantages we bring to the table.”

In addition to building its own gunpowder plant at its White River Energetics campus in Arkansas, D&M will build turnkey propellant factories for clients to manufacture single base and double base powder for everything from small-caliber ammunition to artillery.

D&M’s goal is to continually innovate, helping clients operate more efficiently and grow.

Companies and countries that have never been in the propellant, ammunition, or primer business before can rely on D&M’s team to handle all aspects of the project from site planning and floor planning to equipment manufacture and installation, in addition to the transfer of knowledge. D&M offers intensive training to its clients and 24/7 support.

“If we can’t fix a problem over the phone, we are on a plane to travel to our customers to assist,” said James Jones, Executive Vice President, D&M Holding Company, Inc. “And as we innovate, we offer our clients affordable upgrades down the road without them having to buy new machines. This is an important aspect of supporting their growth.”

D&M has built ammunition factories and delivered equipment in the United States, South America, and Ukraine with more in the works globally, including plans to build plants in Canada to produce nitrocellulose and propellant. D&M is also currently building a single base powder plant for a Southeastern European country with other projects in process.

D&M and its White River Energetics business support domestic and international clients in the defense and sporting markets. For more information, visit D&M Holding Company and White River Energetics. To schedule a meeting during the show, email sales@dmholding.com.

5.11 Adds New Twist to Stache Sneaker with Latest Color Release, “Iron Grey”

Wednesday, September 10th, 2025

5.11, the global innovator of purpose-built apparel, footwear, and gear, has introduced a new colorway of its renowned Stache Sneaker, in collaboration with The Firearm Blog’s James Reeves. The new shade, Iron Grey, has a dark grey canvas exterior, while the interior pops with tropical vibes and a rebellious edge — a red backdrop featuring hibiscus blooms colliding with skull graphics. The look is finished with a clean, off-white rubber outsole for contrast, making it equally at home on the street or on the move.

The new iteration still boasts all the same trademark features, including a Vibram® bottom that grips like a beast,?a compatible?deconstructed upper?for reduced weight and supreme comfort, and the signature ‘stash’ pocket on the shoe’s tongue perfect for stowing spare valuables. Whether you’re navigating a day at work, urban jungles, or blazing your own trail, the Stache™ Sneaker is your go-anywhere, do-anything footwear companion.

“For me, the real test was whether The Stache could handle real life — from long days on your feet to being machine-washed and crammed into the bottom of a duffel bag before a trip. That’s the kind of reliability I wanted, and I’m proud that this shoe delivers without compromise,” said Reeves.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

MSRP: $95

Also offered in black and ranger green

Sizes available range from 7 to 13

Deconstructed styling

Retro-camo interior lining and outsole area stitch

Ortholite ® insole

Flexible and breathable 1200D nylon upper

The Stache is now available online at www.511tactical.com and in select 5.11 retail stores nationwide.