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Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

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.

GM Defense Reveals New General Support Utility Platform (GSUP) for the First Time Globally

Wednesday, September 10th, 2025

LONDON – GM Defense, which formed Team LionStrike with BAE Systems and NP Aerospace to compete for the UK’s Light Mobility Vehicle Programme, is launching its new General Support Utility Platform (GSUP) at DSEI in London, to equip the armed forces with the most advanced technology.

The new General Support Utility Platform is a rugged, high-performance, multi-mission vehicle designed for rapid configuration and deployment across a range of operational scenarios – delivering mobility, payload, capacity and flexibility. It is equipped with STORM Vanguard’s modular Rapid Adapt and Deploy System (RADS) – a game-changing modular system offering – and features GVA comms integration with Ultra PCS.

The vehicle is backed by Team LionStrike, a new collaboration focused on offering the UK MoD a mobility solution to rapidly modernize its ground vehicle fleet. The team is working together in pursuit of the UK Ministry of Defence’s Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) programme and will also address broader opportunities across NATO and allied nations. Team LionStrike will also deliver economic growth as part of the Land Industrial Strategy, and significant export growth potential.

Team LionStrike is building a sustainable supply chain and delivery ecosystem in the UK. The team will be supported by GM’s leading industry partners, NP Aerospace and BAE Systems and is also anchored by GM’s worldwide parts distribution system.

“Our objective with Team LionStrike is to support the UK Ministry of Defence’s goal of rapidly modernizing its ground vehicle fleet, providing soldiers the best tools to perform their mission,” said Steve duMont, President of GM Defense. “Vehicles like our General Support Utility Platform and our flagship Infantry Squad Vehicle are designed to deliver major advancements in operational capability and performance, along with unmatched safety and reliability.”

The new General Support Utility Platform is a high-performance, customizable multi-mission vehicle built on GM’s advanced technologies.

Key features include:

• GVW of 3500kg

• Payload of up to 1339kg

• Multi-variant solution

• Live 2,000 vehicle per month production line

• LHD and RHD options

Learn more about Team LionStrike and GM Defense’s strategic initiatives by visiting GM News.

UF PRO Featured Law Enforcement-Oriented Solutions at NTOA 2025

Wednesday, September 10th, 2025

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (09.09.2025)

UF PRO, part of Mehler Systems and a leading provider in the tactical clothing industry, participated in this year’sNational Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) LawEnforcement Operations Conference & Trade Show. Theevent was held from 24 to 25 August 2025 at the GaylordNational Harbor in Washington, DC, and is recognised as one of the most important gatherings for law enforcement andtactical decision-makers in North America.

At booth 729, UF PRO presented its range of tactical clothingsystems developed for law enforcement personnel operatingin demanding environments. The exhibition focused on lightweight, durable combat uniforms and outerwearengineered for high mobility, moisture management, andresilience.

Selected garments were available for direct inspection andtry-on, enabling attendees to examine material quality andfunctional features in detail.

The NTOA Conference also facilitated valuable dialogue withlaw enforcement professionals from across North America. Through this engagement, UF PRO strengthened itspresence in the U.S. market and further demonstrated itscommitment to serving law enforcement communities.

For further information about the products presented, pleasevisit: ufpro.com/int

Origin Robotics Unveils BLAZE, a Cost-Effective Drone Interceptor with AI-powered Computer Vision

Wednesday, September 10th, 2025

RIGA, Latvia (May 6, 2025) – Defence tech startup Origin Robotics has launched BLAZE, an autonomous counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) interceptor designed to neutralize fast-moving aerial threats with precision and speed. As drones become an increasingly dominant force on the modern battlefield, BLAZE offers a cost-effective solution to counter them, filling the gap between traditional gun-based air defence and high-cost missile interceptors. The interceptor is aimed to strengthen the defence capabilities of European countries amid rising threats and geopolitical uncertainty.

Drones have reshaped modern warfare, dictating battlefield strategies and shifting the balance of power. Their widespread use, particularly in Ukraine, has demonstrated both their effectiveness and the high cost of countering them. In January 2025 alone, Russia launched over 2,500 drones into Ukrainian territory – an average of 80 drones per day. This escalation underscores the urgent need for advanced yet cost-efficient air defence solutions.

Agris Kipurs, CEO and co-founder of Origin Robotics, said, “In asymmetric warfare, drones are relatively inexpensive and widely deployed to overwhelm air defenses and strike targets both at the frontline and deep behind it, making it challenging and costly to counter. We designed BLAZE specifically to address this threat—a fast, intelligent, and cost-effective addition to existing air defense systems. We remain committed to delivering cost-efficient and adaptable solutions to support Europe and NATO allies in addressing existing and future security challenges.”

BLAZE is a man-portable, rapidly deployable interceptor designed to defeat fast-moving aerial threats, including loitering munitions and hostile UAVs. The system combines radar-based detection with AI-powered computer vision, delivering autonomous target acquisition and operator-approved interception. Equipped with a high-explosive (HE) fragmentation warhead, it ensures precise and effective threat elimination, even in contested environments.

The system autonomously detects, acquires, and locks onto targets using a combination of radar tracking and AI-powered computer vision. Upon operator confirmation, the system executes a precisely calculated attack—either destroying the target on direct impact or engaging it with an airburst fragmentation detonation.  BLAZE delivers high mobility, scalability, and cost-efficiency for modern armed forces.

As an operator-supervised autonomous system, it ensures the operator retains final-stage control, including the ability to issue a wave-off command that directs the BLAZE to either return safely or self-destruct. This capability allows immediate deployment even in scenarios with uncertain target identification, significantly reducing the risks of friendly fire and minimizing collateral damage.

The interceptor is designed for quick deployment and high-intensity operations. The first drone can be launched in under five minutes, with subsequent launches taking less than a minute. Compact and portable, BLAZE’s transport case doubles as a launch station and charging dock. Its tool-less setup ensures it is flight-ready in under ten minutes.

Following the battlefield-proven success of its flagship drone system, BEAK, currently deployed by the Ukrainian and Latvian Armed Forces, Origin Robotics continues to develop scalable, next-generation technologies for modern warfare. Thanks to BEAK’s rapid deployment and proven capabilities, Origin has quickly earned recognition for its technology and built trust in its autonomous aerial systems—reflected in an R&D contract from the Latvian Ministry of Defence and a grant from the European Defence Fund.

DSEI 2025: AimLock and Teledyne FLIR Defense Collaborate on Autonomous Kinetic Capabilities

Wednesday, September 10th, 2025

At this year’s DSEI event in London, AimLock’s autonomous targeting and engagement systems will be showcased on Teledyne FLIR’s SUGV and Kobra ground robots 

LONDON, 10 September 2025 – Today at DSEI UK 2025, AimLock, a pioneer in autonomous targeting and engagement systems, announced it is collaborating with Teledyne FLIR Defense to provide autonomous kinetic capabilities for the company’s SUGV™ 325 and Kobra™ 725 ground robots.  

AimLock’s systems, powered by the company’s Core Targeting Modules (CTMs), will support Teledyne FLIR’s robots in delivering decision-accelerating kinetic autonomy across key mission sets in Counter-UAS, Force Protection, Direct Action, Integrated Defense, Strike Anti Armor, and Support by Fire. As the autonomous battlefield continues to evolve, both companies will be displaying these mission-critical systems at their booths during DSEI. 

On Display at Teledyne’s Booth (S3-110):  

Teledyne FLIR’s SUGV 325, Integrated with AimLock’s RS-2 Solution with Dual 40mm Grenade Launchers SUGV 325, a backpackable robot that offers a versatile solution for a variety of missions, will be integrated with AimLock’s RS-2, a remote engagement speed and accuracy system that powers automated target acquisition and firing solutions. R-S2 can be affixed with a range of weapon systems: dual 40mm grenade launchers, quad M72 rocket launchers, a lightweight machine gun, .50 caliber semi-automatic rifle, and more. 

The R-S2 provides:  

Multi-sensor AI targeting: The system uses edge-processed, multi-modal sensors with AI-enhanced target detection, classification, recognition, and identification. 

Automated stabilized firing: two-axis stabilized positioners provide automated firing solutions with corrections for target and platform motion, environmental conditions, and targeting ranges. 

Flexible integration: open architecture control interfaces integrate into larger combat systems or standalone use, with platform kits available for manned and unmanned air and ground vehicles. 

On Display at AimLock’s Booth (N5-260):  

Teledyne FLIR’s Kobra 725, Integrated with AimLock’s RM-1 The Kobra 725, a powerful, heavy-payload robot, will be integrated with AimLock’s RM-1, a semi-autonomous remote weapon station for medium machine gun platforms. The RM-1 provides:  

An advanced targeting system: The R-M1 combines day/night sensors, laser range-finding, active stabilization, autonomous detection, classification, tracking, and automatic firing to deliver fast, accurate engagement, even while on the move. 

Multi-threat capability: It detects and tracks small drones, vehicles, and enemy combatants, enabling 7.62mm and .338 Norma Mag machine gun engagement out to the host weapon’s effective range. 

Flexible deployment: The ultra-portable system can be mounted on tripods, buildings, vehicles, boats, and helicopters for maximum operational versatility. 

“As autonomy on the battlefield continues to become the status quo, our unique ability to provide autonomous kinetic capabilities is more important than ever,”

said Bryan Bockmon, CEO of AimLock. “We are pleased to collaborate with Teledyne FLIR Defense to power their robots with the kind of technology that helps keep warfighters safe and bring them home from the most precarious of missions.”  

“Globally, our customers are placing a sharper focus on lethality for unmanned systems, which is why our collaboration with Aim-Lock is a win-win,”

said Nate Winn, director of product management, Unmanned Systems North America, at Teledyne FLIR Defense.

“Whether it’s our SUGV or Kobra robots or Rogue 1 UAS, our highly modular platforms can easily integrate a wide range of kinetic effect systems that are proving to be difference-makers in modern warfare.”