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University of Nebraska’s NSRI Awarded $500 million Contract to Accelerate Warfighter-Ready Solutions

Wednesday, March 18th, 2026

IDIQ contract continues NSRI, USSTRATCOM trusted partnership for deterrence, defense R&D

OMAHA, Neb., March 17, 2026 — The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) at the University of Nebraska (NU) has received a $500 million indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract from U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) to deliver innovative research and development solutions that keep U.S. forces safe and maintain America’s technological edge through rapid-response research capabilities.

With this contract, NSRI also retains its designation from the U.S. Department of War (DOW) as a University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), sponsored by USSTRATCOM and affiliated with NU. There are only 15 UARCs in the country.

While not a direct funding commitment, an IDIQ establishes that an organization has demonstrated capability and has been vetted, enabling government agencies to rapidly issue funded task orders for specific research without lengthy procurement processes.

“This IDIQ represents far more than a contracting mechanism — it’s a vote of confidence in the institute’s continued and future execution of critical research to meet national defense requirements,” said Maj. Gen., USAF (Ret.) Rick Evans, NSRI executive director. “With emerging threats such as electromagnetic warfare and engineered pathogens evolving at an unprecedented pace, the DOW is accelerating critical research from concept to capability. This award expands the opportunity for NSRI and the University of Nebraska to meet the demand signal of the Department with proven flexibility, innovation and speed.”

Since it was established in 2012, NSRI has delivered leading academic research and critical tools across two DOW missions — strategic deterrence and countering weapons of mass destruction. Its research portfolio spans the threat spectrum and crosses multiple domains. The institute has provided research, technology, product and strategy development, training, exercises and subject matter expertise to more than 50 federal and state government sponsors, generating hundreds of products, many of which are now in the hands of defense operators and decision makers.

“Today’s evolving national security threats mean we need mission-critical research solutions faster than ever,” said U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, chair of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces. “I couldn’t be more proud of world-class expertise provided by University of Nebraska’s NSRI, and I look forward to seeing how U.S. Strategic Command and federal agencies will utilize this trusted strategic research organization.”

The new contract, which consists of a five-year base period and a five-year option period, is the largest in the history of the University of Nebraska System, and the fourth IDIQ NSRI has received from USSTRATCOM — in addition to $84 million in 2012, $92 million in 2018 and $107 million in 2020.

Recent initiatives funded by the previous contracts include:

Electromagnetic operations analysis across the Joint Force: Rigorous technical reports to help draw precise, accurate and relevant conclusions regarding the performance of platforms, systems, tactics, techniques and procedures.

Acute radiation syndrome (ARS) prophylactic: Development of a first-of-its-kind therapeutic to help protect U.S. troops entering environments with high levels of radiation.

Infectious aerosol risk study: Findings and conclusions from the study demonstrated how the Navy and Military Sealift Command protect medical staff and patients from aerosolized pathogens on the only two hospital ships in the fleet.

Emergent gamma radiation technologies study: Assessment to help the DOW leverage existing and next-generation capabilities for shielding from and delivering medical countermeasures against gamma radiation effects.

CBRN assessments, readiness and training frameworks and exercises: Comprehensive chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) solutions to support U.S. and allied partners.

“Defending the American homeland requires the best minds working on our most pressing challenges,” said Congressman Don Bacon. “This IDIQ vehicle ensures NSRI, and the University of Nebraska’s four campuses, can rapidly deploy leading research towards nuclear deterrence challenges and emerging technologies. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I’m pleased that Nebraska continues leading the way in translating academic innovation into operational defense capabilities that protect American lives.”

To accomplish its many efforts, NSRI’s team of experienced scientists collaborates with hundreds of researchers and students across the four NU campuses, including an academic medical center in Omaha and a Big Ten Academic Alliance institution in Lincoln, as well as other national premier academic and research institutions. These partnerships demonstrate in real time the UARC mission — connect university innovation with military requirements to deliver operational capabilities at the speed of relevance.

The specialized expertise NU faculty and student researchers provide to the DOW is backed by a comprehensive, four-campus state-wide research infrastructure. Facilities and centers across NU providing unique expertise and instrumentation include but are not limited to:

Biological Processing Development Facility, University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL)

Biomechanics Research Building, University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO)

Cyber-Physical Networking Lab, UNL

Global Center for Health Security, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC)

iExcel, UNMC

Midwest Roadside Safety Facility, UNL

National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center, UNO

Nebraska Biocontainment Unit, UNMC

Nebraska Drug Discovery & Development Pipeline, NU

Nebraska Intelligent Mobile Unmanned Systems Lab, UNL

“This new contract continues our immediate national impact, and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity,” said NU President Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold. “Our infrastructure, combined with faculty who’ve spent decades supporting military missions and students eager to serve, creates a powerful force: a university system where academic excellence meets operational urgency to address our nation’s most critical defense needs.”

nsri.nebraska.edu

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Rheinmetall Nordic Mortar Day: Rheinmetall Presents the Capabilities of the Next Generation of European Mortars

Wednesday, March 18th, 2026

Rheinmetall has once again demonstrated its expertise in the future of indirect fire weapon systems. In winter 2026, its subsidiary Rheinmetall Nordic hosted the Rheinmetall Nordic Mortar Day. In front of high-ranking representatives of armed forces, authorities and industry partners from Norway, Sweden, Finland, the Netherlands and Germany, the company presented the latest generation of high-performance European mortar systems in a live demonstration. The focus was on the 120 mm Ragnarok mortar system and the newly developed Mortar Mission Module. This is a European, scalable solution designed to have a decisive impact on the battlefield through its speed, precision, reliability and affordability.

The Ragnarok Mortar Mission Module will provide users with true shoot/scoot capability allowing users to leave the firing position immediately after the last round is fire. The system is designed for high flexibility through its platform and barrel independence.

The live fire demonstration took place in Rena, Norway. Weather conditions were adverse, with double-digit sub-zero temperatures and high humidity. During the demonstration, the Mortar Mission Module integrated in a HX truck demonstrated its high accuracy and rapid response capability. Designed for speed and simplicity, the system can be seamlessly integrated into existing and future platforms, enabling European armed forces to enhance their capabilities easily and without significant logistical effort.

The demonstration underscored the growing importance of European cooperation in strengthening collective defence. In light of increasing geopolitical pressure and growing demand for robust capabilities on the battlefield, Rheinmetall Nordic emphasised the urgency of delivering effective, user-oriented systems that enable nations to act quickly and decisively.

‘Today’s security environment requires us to act in a targeted manner,’ said Morten Kjorum, CEO of Rheinmetall Nordic. ‘Europe’s strategic autonomy depends on providing solutions that maximise operational impact while being practical, cost-effective and rapidly deployable. The Mortar Mission Module is the result of close collaboration between Rheinmetall and European industry partners and users, based on transparency, shared goals and technological excellence.’

‘Together we are stronger,’ added Kjorum. ‘Our goal is clear: we want to deliver systems that meet the operational requirements of European soldiers at the speed that the current situation demands.’

With its scalable production presence worldwide, Rheinmetall is ready to meet the growing demand for advanced infirect fire capabilities while ensuring a resilient, sovereign supply chain.

Posted in International, Press Release, weapons | No Comments »

High Speed Gear Awarded United States Army Contract to Manufacture Advanced Drone Pouches

Wednesday, March 18th, 2026

SWANSBORO, NC – March 17, 2026, High Speed Gear, a leader in American-made tactical load-carrying solutions, proudly announces it has been awarded a contract by the United States Army to produce specialized drone pouches designed to support modern unmanned aerial system (UAS) operations.

This contract comes as the Army accelerates the transition of frontline-inspired innovations into operational capability. Modular drone case systems, first developed by Soldiers through the XVIII Airborne Corps’ Dragon’s Lair innovation pipeline, are moving rapidly from experimentation to fielding under the Army’s streamlined procurement model.

Initial development was supported by the Airborne Innovation Lab, a collaboration between the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities DevelopmentCommand Army Research Laboratory and the Civil-Military Innovation Institute, which enables tactical experimentation and rapid prototyping with operational units to help turn Soldier-driven ideas into deployable solutions.

High Speed Gear’s drone pouches will serve as a trusted platform for securingand protecting small UAS assets across Army units, providing rugged, durable, and adaptable carrying solutions optimized for airborne and dismounted missions. Built with the same performance-driven philosophy that defines the HSGI brand, these pouches will enhance operational readiness and soldier efficiency on today’s dynamic battlefield.

Kip Guyon, CEO of High Speed Gear and former U.S. Army Officer, commented: “Supporting and equipping the United States Army is an honor, a privilege, and a responsibility we take seriously. Our team is dedicated to delivering rugged, dependable solutions that enhance readiness and protect the warfighters who protect all of us.

High Speed Gear looks forward to working closely with Army acquisition partners and innovation programs to deliver these critical drone pouch systems on schedule and at scale. This award builds on HSGI’s legacy of equipping U.S. and allied forces with battle-proven pouches and modular gear that support lethality, versatility, and mission success.

Over the past several years, High Speed Gear has intentionally expanded its manufacturing capacity, strengthened its supply chain, and invested in both people and technology to meet the growing demands of modern defense requirements. The company stands ready to support additional mission needs with the same discipline and precision that earned this award. As requirements evolve, the HSG team is prepared to scale, adapt, and deliver, not just as a manufacturer, but as a committed partner.

For inquiries, contact: Adam Garrison, Director of Gov Business Development: Adam.Garrison@highspeedgear.com

Posted in Advertiser, Drone, Load Carrying, Manufacturing, Press Release | No Comments »

SpiderOak Selected by the Program Office for US Army Unmanned Aircraft Systems (PMO UAS) to Support Drone Dominance Program

Tuesday, March 17th, 2026

Blue UAS Recognized Assessor to deliver supply chain and cybersecurity evaluations for participating UAS vendors

RESTON, VA, March 3, 2026 – SpiderOak, a leader in zero-trust cybersecurity solutions and services for space, aerospace, and defense, announced today that it has been awarded a contract by the Program Office for U.S. Army Unmanned Aircraft Systems (PMO UAS) to perform supply chain analysis and cybersecurity assessments for multiple vendors participating in the U.S. Army’s Drone Dominance Program (DDP).

SpiderOak, a Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Blue UAS Recognized Assessor, will apply its Advanced Cyber Threat & Resilience Assessments (ACTRA) methodology to evaluate participating platforms for supply chain integrity, cyber resilience, and compliance with U.S. Government security requirements. The effort supports the Army’s push to rapidly field secure, low-cost, unmanned aerial systems at scale.

The Drone Dominance Program, launched in February 2026, is a multi-phase initiative designed to accelerate the evaluation, selection, and production of next-generation small UAS capabilities. The program’s initial “Gauntlet” event at Fort Benning, Georgia, brought together 25 vendors for live operational testing, with the goal of selecting up to 12 performers to produce tens of thousands of systems in the near term and scale to hundreds of thousands of units by 2028.

“As unmanned systems scale across modern operations, the integrity of their cyber and supply chain foundations becomes mission critical,” said Kip Gering, CEO of SpiderOak. “We are honored to support PMO UAS and the Drone Dominance Program by delivering independent, technically rigorous assessments that help ensure these platforms can be trusted in contested environments.”

Through this contract, SpiderOak will conduct deep technical evaluations across hardware, firmware, software, and component provenance. The assessments are designed to identify vulnerabilities, validate compliance with NDAA and NIST requirements, and help program stakeholders make informed risk decisions before systems are fielded.

Advanced Cyber Threat & Resilience Assessments

SpiderOak’s Advanced Cyber Threat & Resilience Assessments (ACTRA) delivers comprehensive, threat-informed platform vulnerability assessments for tactical systems and components. For UAS initiatives, SpiderOak provides independent, technically rigorous evaluations across hardware, firmware, software, supply chain provenance, and ownership structures. These assessments support compliance with standards such as NIST 800-171, NIST 800-53, and Executive Order 14028, enabling defense stakeholders to deploy cyber-secure autonomous systems with confidence.

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US Army Contracts Elbit America for Rotorcraft Heads Up Displays

Tuesday, March 17th, 2026

Air Warrior HUDs improve aircrew situational awareness, safety, and survivability in flight

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – March 16, 2026 – Elbit Systems of America (Elbit America) was recently awarded a $49.9 million Firm-Fixed-Price, Indefinite-Delivery/Indefinite-Quantity contract from the Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama to produce Heads Up Displays (HUDs) as part of the United States Army’s Air Soldier System. Work for the contract will be done through December 2030, subject to receipt of purchase orders, and includes post-production support.

The colorized HUD is part of the Army’s Air Soldier System, an assemblage of gear and equipment used in rotorcraft that is lightweight, integrated, and designed to enhance situational awareness and survivability. The HUD’s role in this system is to present key information to aircrew, so users are always positioned head-up and eyes out.

The Air Warrior HUD is a critical flight display in operation on U.S. Army UH-60 Blackhawks and CH-47 Chinooks.

“Since our inception, Elbit America has been dedicated to improving situational awareness through sophisticated displays that enhance a user’s understanding of the conditions outside their aircraft or vehicle,” said Scott Tumpak, Senior Vice President of Electronic Systems at Elbit America. “The Air Warrior Heads Up Display allows aircrew to focus on the mission because it’s designed to ensure safety, efficiency, and comfort for aircrew.”

“In high-stakes environments, you don’t have time for uncertainty. Elbit America delivers combat-proven Heads Up Displays that provide aircrew the confidence to see first, act first, and win,” said Elbit America President & CEO Luke Savoie. “This contract is a testament to the faith the U.S. Army places in us to keep delivering key solutions to our soldiers and we’re proud of our continued partnership.”

Posted in Army, Aviation, Contracts, Optics, Press Release | No Comments »

ZeroTech Optics Launches Vengeance 1-4x24SFP LPVO

Tuesday, March 17th, 2026

NASHVILLE, TN – ZeroTech Optics is expanding its trusted Vengeance lineup with the launch of the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE and the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR MOA, versatile low power variable optics designed to deliver fast target acquisition at close range while maintaining the precision needed for mid-distance engagements.

Built for shooters who demand simplicity, durability, and performance, the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE and the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR MOA provide true 1x capability for rapid, both-eyes-open shooting similar to a red dot, while the 4x top-end magnification offers the added precision required for confident shots at extended distances.

Launching in both a classic black finish and a Flat Dark Earth (FDE) configuration, the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE allows shooters to match modern rifle builds and accessories while maintaining the rugged reliability expected from the ZeroTech Vengeance series.

At the center of the optic is the RAR MOA reticle, designed for rapid target acquisition and practical holdovers. The illuminated center aiming point and intuitive layout allow shooters to quickly engage targets while still providing useful reference points for more deliberate shots when using the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE or the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR MOA.

Constructed from durable 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum and built around a robust 30mm tube, the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE and the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR MOA are designed to withstand hard field use. Fully multi-coated lenses provide a bright and crisp sight picture, while capped turrets, a locking diopter, and weather-resistant construction ensure consistent reliability in demanding conditions.

Whether used for defensive carbines, competition rifles, or general range use, the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE and the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR MOA deliver practical performance and dependable durability in a streamlined, user-friendly optic.

Key Features

True 1-4x Magnification Range – Provides rapid close-range engagement with the ability to dial up for greater precision at distance.
RAR MOA Illuminated reticle – Designed for fast target acquisition with practical holdover references.
30mm Tube Construction – Strong and lightweight platform for reliable performance.
Fully Multi-Coated Lenses – Enhances clarity, brightness, and contrast.
Locking Diopter – Maintains consistent focus once set.

For more information on ZeroTech optics and the full Vengeance lineup, visit www.zerotechoptics.com.

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FirstSpear and Recon K9 Enter Exclusive Licensing Agreement

Tuesday, March 17th, 2026

FENTON, Mo. (March 16, 2026) – FirstSpear®, the industry leader in load-bearing technology and personal protective equipment, has entered into an exclusive, ten-year license with Recon K9® LLC (“Recon K9”). Under this agreement, FirstSpear will assume responsibility for the sales, marketing, manufacturing, distribution, and logistics of the Recon K9 brand, effectively integrating Recon K9’s operations into FirstSpear’s infrastructure.

This strategic agreement grants FirstSpear exclusive use of all intellectual property owned or developed by Recon K9, including trademarks, product designs, internet domains, and social media accounts.

By leveraging FirstSpear’s market presence and established manufacturing and distribution capabilities, the partnership ensures that Recon K9 products will be manufactured and delivered with the quality and professionalism expected from FirstSpear. Additionally, FirstSpear will manage all warehousing, order fulfillment, and e-commerce operations, streamlining the customer experience.

“In the SOF community, the K9 is not merely an asset; they are a fellow operator,” said Jon Laplume, FirstSpear co-founder and vice president of SOF Strategy and Product Development. “Our integration of Recon K9 is forged in the spirit of Canes Belli, the Dogs of War. By applying FirstSpear’s material science and manufacturing precision to these products, we are making a strategic commitment to the safety and lethality of the entire team, ensuring that when the dogs of war are let slip, they are equipped to win.”

As part of the transition, Recon K9 founder Jason Watson will join the FirstSpear team. Watson will continue to drive the brand’s vision, including participating in product research and development, attending trade shows, and conducting customer visits.

The transition of functional responsibility, including the website, marketing, and inventory management, is scheduled to take place within 30 to 60 days.

About FirstSpear

Founded in 2010, FirstSpear® equips elite military and law enforcement professionals with uncompromising equipment for those bound for “The X.” Guided by its “Built for The X™” ethos, FirstSpear produces lightweight, mission-focused equipment engineered for the most demanding operational environments.

About Recon K9

Recon K9 is the premier global provider of mission-specific tactical gear for military, law enforcement, and federal agency working dogs. Born from the direct requirements of U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC), Recon K9 delivers “excuse-free” equipment designed to enhance the lethality and survivability of the K9 team.

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Orqa Signs Teaming Agreement with Red River Army Depot to Boost UAS Manufacturing

Monday, March 16th, 2026

OSIJEK, Croatia, March 16, 2026 — Orqa has entered into a groundbreaking teaming agreement with Red River Army Depot in Texarkana, Texas, representing a significant step in advancing the U.S. Army’s rapidly expanding organic small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) manufacturing capacity.

The agreement also strengthens Orqa’s recently announced Global Manufacturing Program.

This agreement builds on Orqa’s longstanding engagement with the Department of War and reflects a shared commitment to supporting the Army’s broader modernization efforts.

The recently signed National Defense Authorization Act represents a national effort to expand unmanned systems production capacity within existing Army depots. Orqa’s role in this initiative builds on the company’s established record of delivering advanced sUAS technologies and supporting operational requirements across multiple theaters.

The teaming agreement marks a significant step in Orqa’s continued partnership with the U.S. military. It reinforces Orqa’s position as a trusted provider of unmanned systems and components, including recent authorizations that enable the company to support Army programs in Europe.

Through this collaboration, Orqa plans to contribute to strengthening domestic production of unmanned systems. As Orqa expands its role in U.S. manufacturing, the increased production activity may also support growth within the company’s operations. “Made in America” Orqa platforms will be available to U.S. military customers and may also support allied nations through established security cooperation channels.

Srdjan Kovacevic, co-founder and CEO of Orqa, said, “We’re thankful for the opportunity to contribute to the increase of U.S. drone manufacturing capability. The resulting boost in capacity will add to the production we can already achieve at our headquarters, a figure that will grow significantly as our Global Manufacturing Partnership Program comes online throughout the year. This agreement is a clear vote of confidence in Orqa, our capabilities, and our products.”

Posted in Drone, Industry, Manufacturing, Press Release | No Comments »