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Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

Ares Gear, Inc Launches New Website

Wednesday, February 18th, 2026

Ares Gear, Inc. acquired by Victory First June 1, 2025

Fredericksburg, Virginia

February 16, 2026

Ares Gear, Inc., the U.S. based tactical gear company best known for producing high quality belts and accessories for law enforcement, military, and EDC civilian users, was acquired by Victory First on June 1, 2025.

Matthew Jacques, owner of Victory First emphasizes that the company philosophy and brand promise remains strongly rooted in an unwavering dedication to quality, providing premier quality belts and accessories to those who want the best that the industry has to offer. Ares Gear, Inc. has long taken pride in building its products using only American-made components; every belt, all materials right down to the bonded thread used is comprised entirely of materials made on American soil.

With the new website launch, Ares Gear, Inc. aims to deliver a best-in-class shopping experience that will give both new and existing customers a refreshed, premium digital experience. Ares Gear, Inc. also has indicated that a new dealer program is in the pipeline. This program’s goal is to build a strong network of retailers who wish to share with their customers the gold-standard in belts and soft goods. Over the course of the next year, Ares Gear also plans to expand upon the existing product line. The experience of Matt and his time in service to his country as a US Marine, Retired Law Enforcement and nearly two decades of industry experience coupled alongside customer feedback fuels creation of new prototypes and designs, focused squarely on delivering what people need and want.

“Civilian carry, law enforcement, and military applications deserve only the best in materials, products, and service. We strive to provide all three. After all, if you carry a gun… it’s on an Aegis.”

The new website can be viewed here: aresgear.com

Galvion Unveils Hellbender UL, Building on Its Leadership in Ultra-Lightweight Helmet Systems

Wednesday, February 18th, 2026

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, unveils the Batlskin Hellbender™ UL (Ultra-Light) helmet — a new ultra-lightweight ballistic head system developed to meet the evolving needs of modern armed forces operating at scale and seeking force-wide standardization without compromising performance. Galvion’s Hellbender™ UL launch coincides with EnforceTac 2026, taking place in Nürnberg, Germany, from 23–25 February. The new Hellbender UL, along with Galvion’s wider range of head systems and power and data solutions, will be on display at booth 9-556.

Galvion’s Hellbender™ platform has been fielded across multiple international programs to meet a variety of requirements. Notably, in August 2025, Galvion announced the award of a USD 130 million contract by the United States Marine Corps (USMC), having selected a variant of Galvion’s Hellbender platform for their Integrated Helmet System (IHS) program. This latest variant, the Hellbender UL, benefits from insights and feedback from a broad range of users over multiple years of development and in-field use across a wide range of operational theatres.

Engineered as a complete head system, the Hellbender™ UL is designed to deliver superior protection through enhanced shell geometry. Using an innovative manufacturing process that offers increased ballistic performance while reducing overall weight, the design results in exceptional structural rigidity and impact resistance. The helmet is available in four sizes (S–XL) and two cuts, including a Mid/Full cut that provides the ideal balance between maximum coverage and effortless communications integration. Featuring a low-profile, rattle-free shroud, ballistic hardware, and integrated cable channels and pass-throughs to minimize snag hazards, the helmet is designed to provide optimized coverage and stability while maintaining compatibility with face shields, night-vision devices, chem/bio masks, and other mission-critical systems. With Galvion’s best-in-class Apex™ liner system, which combines full-coverage impact protection with a highly adjustable fit architecture, Hellbender UL offers stability, comfort, and endurance over extended wear. Designed with future integration in mind, Hellbender™ UL provides a scalable foundation capable of supporting Galvion’s Cortex™ advanced computing and digital capabilities as operational requirements evolve.

Galvion’s approach to helmet system development is underpinned by proven regional production and delivery at scale. The company has invested significantly in localized manufacturing and supply-chain capability in Europe, including the establishment of its European Production Hub in Poland to support the delivery of 250,000 Caiman® helmets ordered to date through its NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) framework contract. As European forces continue to modernize their soldier systems, Galvion is committed to extending this regionalized model to support expanded adoption of its helmet platforms, including Hellbender™ UL.

Jonathan Blanshay, Executive Chairman of Galvion, said: “The Hellbender UL is an ultra-lightweight platform that is a high-performing solution aligned with the evolving needs of NATO and European forces, particularly those who require a full cut system. This is a milestone addition to our lightweight helmet portfolio, complementing our widely fielded Caiman® system, and exemplifies our system-level approach that considers not only protection, but also integration, sustainment, and future capability growth. This helmet is designed for forces that expect their equipment to evolve with them, without compromise.”

5.11 x Battlefield 6 Partnership Expands with Co-Branded Product and Exclusive In-Game Skins

Wednesday, February 18th, 2026

COSTA MESA, Calif. – February 18, 2026 – 5.11, the global innovator of purpose-built apparel, footwear, and gear, today announced the next phase of its partnership with EA® for Battlefield™ 6, introducing limited-edition co-branded gear and the first wave of exclusive 5.11 in-game character skins.

Rooted in a shared commitment to authenticity, performance, and readiness, this latest activation brings 5.11’s purpose-built philosophy to life both in the real world and within the virtual battlefield. From technical apparel designed for everyday performance to exclusive in-game content built for immersive play, the collaboration continues to bridge physical and digital experiences through purposeful design.

Building on the successful October launch of Battlefield™ 6, this next phase further connects players and fans to the 5.11 brand — empowering them with gear and experiences engineered to perform wherever the mission takes them.

“This partnership is a natural extension of who we are,” said Troy Brown, CEO of 5.11. “We build for people who push limits in every arena—whether that’s at work, in training, in competition, or in a digital environment. The mindset stays the same: show up prepared, perform with purpose, and keep raising the bar. Bringing that performance standard into Battlefield is a powerful way to extend our brand and meet our community where they are.”


Co-branded Apparel and Accessories

As part of the activation, 5.11 is launching a co-branded capsule collection available beginning February 17. The lineup includes the EA Battlefield Operator Grim Bomber Tee, EA Battlefield Topo Skull Operator Midweight Hoodie, EA Battlefield Operator Hat, and the 5.11 Topo Skull Patch. The collection merges Battlefield’s high-intensity world with 5.11’s signature design language, featuring custom graphics and a reintroduced Topo Skull design originally created by 5.11.

The capsule is available in the United States at select 5.11 retail locations and online, while supplies last.

Also launching February 17 is the first official 5.11 character skin inside Battlefield 6: the Engineer. Players can unlock the exclusive skin through a special redemption code included with any $50 purchase from 5.11 online or at U.S. retail stores.


5.11 Field-Tested Engineer Skin

This promotion is available in the United States online and in stores, and online in Australia and select countries across Europe, including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.

Additional 5.11 Cosmetics will be available in-game that include three soldier skins for the Assault, Support, and Recon classes; along with a vehicle skin, two character patches and one player card beginning February 24, further expanding the collaboration across multiple Battlefield roles.

In addition, 5.11 is launching an SMS activation that allows fans to receive a code to unlock an exclusive 5.11 Player Card to utilize in-game within Battlefield 6.


5.11 Be Ready Player Card

For more information about the 5.11 x Battlefield 6 partnership and current activations, visit www.511tactical.com/battlefield-6.

Warrior Protection And Readiness Coalition Announces Formation OF The Congressional Berry Amendment Caucus

Wednesday, February 18th, 2026

Strengthening Domestic Defense Manufacturing and Securing Warfighter Supply Chains

WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 17, 2026) — The Warrior Protection & Readiness Coalition (WPRC) today applauded the formation of the first-ever congressional Berry Amendment Caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives. This bipartisan caucus, spearheaded by co-chairs Rep. Pat Harrigan (NC-10) and Don Davis (NC-01), has foundational goals of strengthening domestic defense manufacturing, supporting American jobs, and ensuring U.S. warfighters are equipped with the highest-quality, 100% American- made uniforms, body armor, load-bearing equipment, ballistic helmets, textiles and related equipment.

Founding members of the caucus include Representatives Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Rich McCormick (GA-07), Greg Murphy (NC-03), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Ralph Norman (SC-05), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), David Rouzer (NC-07), Tim Moore (NC-14), John Carter (TX-31), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), and Brian Mast (FL-21).

The Berry Amendment, first enacted in 1941, requires the Department of War to procure certain mission-critical items, including textiles, clothing, footwear, body armor, tents, and food, from domestic sources. The law helps ensure the United States maintains secure supply chains for essential military items while sustaining the domestic industrial base that supports the warfighter.

The Berry Amendment Caucus will serve as a bipartisan forum focused on strengthening national security and preserving American manufacturing. The caucus will highlight the importance of domestic industrial capacity in critical sectors such as textiles, uniforms,armor and specialty materials; support factories and workers who manufacture Berry-compliant goods; educate Members of Congress on the full scope of products coveredunder the law; and support consistent enforcement and modernization of Berry requirements to meet evolving warfighter needs.

“The formation of the Berry Amendment Caucus marks an important step in sustaining and growing the domestic industrial base that equips the American warfighter,” said David Costello, Executive Director of the WPRC. “For decades, the Berry Amendment has ensured that our servicemembers have a secure supply chain for critical equipage and are never dependent on foreign supply chains for mission-essential gear. In war and in peace, the Berry Amendment guarantees that the United States is always capable of manufacturing the full spectrum of products needed to keep our troops combat ready. Our association is deeply appreciative of the leadership demonstrated by Reps. Harrigan and Davis in founding this new caucus.”

“You cannot be the strongest military in the world while depending on foreign supply chains for mission-critical gear. The Berry Amendment protects our warfighters, protects American manufacturing, and protects our national security. As co-chair of this caucus, I am doubling down on a simple principle: the equipment that defends the United States should be made in the United States,” said Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10).

“As North Carolina invests in a stronger future for our textile industry, we must strengthen the Berry Amendment, guaranteeing that every thread of the defense supply chain is American-made. Protecting local jobs, backing our manufacturers, and providing our military with the dependable, high-quality materials it deserves is vital,” said Congressman Don Davis (NC-01).

With the establishment of the Berry Amendment Caucus, members of Congress will have a platform to highlight Berry-compliant manufacturing in their districts, support policies that strengthen domestic supply chains, and reinforce America’s ability to equip the world’s most capable military.

About WPRC

WPRC is the unified voice of advocacy for the individual and unit level equipment needs of the warfighter and peacekeeper. The leading tactical equipment, apparel, materials, and technology companies of the WPRC are committed to ensuring that American service members and Homeland Security personnel are provided with superior products built by a robust industrial base, now and in the future. For a complete listing of WPRC member companies, please visit www.warriorprotection.net.

HENSOLDT and Schwarz Digits Form Strategic Partnership for Data-Driven Defence Capabilities

Tuesday, February 17th, 2026

Joint solution expertise for sovereign sensor cloud infrastructures, networked sensor technology and multi-domain operations

Neckarsulm/Munich (Germany), 16 February 2026 – System House HENSOLDT and Schwarz Digits are entering into a strategic partnership to jointly advance the expansion of software-defined defence and sovereign, data-driven capabilities for the networked operational environment. The aim of the collaboration is to provide fully integrated, sovereign and cloud-enabled solutions for Germany and other nations allied with Germany.

Holistic protection: from VS-Secret to quantum resistance

The partnership responds to the urgent need for independent cloud technology for the defence sector. STACKIT, Schwarz Digits’ cloud provider, delivers an end-to-end infrastructure for this purpose. Beyond the infrastructure, Schwarz Digits brings specialised security capabilities to the partnership.  Highly secure communication stacks will enable data exchange up to the VS-Secret classification level. To counter future threats, Schwarz Digits relies on quantum-resistant encryption methods and comprehensive cyber security solutions. This integrated approach provides seamless protection for the integrity of data streams against digital access.

Modular multi-domain operations software suite

HENSOLDT contributes its entire defence technology portfolio. This includes, in particular, MDOcore (Multi-Domain Operations Core) – an open, modular and cloud-enabled software suite that acts as a universal translator for different, distributed data sources with the ability to perform AI-supported data fusion and integrate capabilities across multiple military domains. In addition, HENSOLDT is contributing its product range of radar, optronics, electromagnetic signal intelligence and active and passive sensor systems. This is complemented by distributed data management and interoperability solutions. Further contributions include simulation and synthetic environments for generating data for training, artificial intelligence training, and software testing and validation. In addition, HENSOLDT’s comprehensive expertise in the integration of mission systems across land, air, sea, cyber, space and cross-domain operations complements the service portfolio.

Oliver Dörre, CEO of HENSOLDT, says: “The security challenges of our time call for sovereign, powerful and networked solutions that Europe can provide from its own technological strength. The partnership with Schwarz Digits combines leading defence electronics with sovereign digital infrastructure. This enables us to create the conditions for the holistic implementation of software-defined defence and to provide armed forces with highly effective and expandable capabilities for the networked theatre of operations.”

Christian Müller, Co-CEO of Schwarz Digits, says: “With Schwarz Digits, we are laying the digital foundation for a new era. In doing so, we are proving that digital sovereignty offers the necessary speed and security to operate critical systems in a future-proof manner.”

Sven Heursch, Chief Digital Officer at HENSOLDT, says: “Software-defined defence requires sovereign data spaces, powerful sensor technology and end-to-end, secure processing from the operational environment to the cloud. At Schwarz Digits, we share the understanding that technological sovereignty and operational effectiveness are inextricably linked. Together, we are laying the foundation for data-driven, resilient defence solutions that meet the requirements of modern multi-domain operations.”

The plan for 2026 is to translate this preliminary work into concrete prototypes and joint offerings. Among other things, there are plans for a joint prototype that combines the sovereign capabilities of Schwarz Digits with sensor technology, integration software and simulation-based data generation from HENSOLDT. In addition, the infrastructure of Schwarz Digits is to be integrated into a sensor solution from HENSOLDT. The presentation of this solution is planned for the International Aerospace Exhibition (ILA) in Berlin in June 2026.

TD Inc Lens Guard for the Aimpoint COA Optic

Tuesday, February 17th, 2026

TangoDown® Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the Lens Guard for the Aimpoint® COA® optic (ACLG-001).  The ACLG-001 is here to protect the front lens of your optic from damage.

The ACLG-001 is made of aerospace grade aluminum and finished with a Type III hard coat anodize.  The lens guard easily attaches with the supplied screws and wrench.  The guard mounts to the front of the optic only.

** The ACLG-001 only fits the Aimpoint® COA optics.  Consult the Aimpoint® COA TDP for details.

**The ACLG-001 does NOT fit other Aimpoint® optics.

**Please read installation instructions prior to installation.  If you’re not familiar with installing/modifying parts, please seek proper assistance.

For more information on the ACLG-001, visit: tangodown.com/aclg-001-lens-guard-for-aimpoint-coa

MSRP:  $47

Customer Questions:  sales@tangodown.com

Rheinmetall Framework Agreement with NATO Procurement Agency for 120mm Tank Ammunition – Initial Order Worth Around €200 Million

Monday, February 16th, 2026

Rheinmetall is further expanding its role as a leading manufacturer of 120mm tank ammunition. The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has called off its first batch of ammunition, worth around €200 million, under a 2025 framework agreement for 120mm ammunition, a contract of substantial scope and value. The end customers are various NATO countries.

The ‘Basic Contractual Instrument’ (BCI) signed with NSPA in July 2025 defines the terms and conditions as well as all technical specifications for various types of 120mm tank ammunition. NATO and NATO-equivalent members can use the framework agreement to simplify the procurement of Rheinmetall ammunition. They can order the ammunition directly from the NSPA. This significantly simplifies the procurement of 120mm tank ammunition within the Atlantic Alliance. Rheinmetall can thus further expand its role as a leading supplier of 120 mm tank ammunition.

Used in the field by many nations since 1980, Rheinmetall’s 120mm smoothbore technology has become the established main battle tank armament within the armed forces of Germany, NATO and other allied nations worldwide. It is the standard system on the Leopard 2 and M1 Abrams main battle tanks. Due to their superior performance and still available power reserves, Rheinmetall can continue to offer innovative and threat-appropriate technical solutions in the caliber 120mm in the medium term.

Dan Green Joins Tomahawk Performance to Lead Advanced R&D

Monday, February 16th, 2026

Nashville, TN – February 16, 2026 – Marking a major step forward in its product development strategy, Tomahawk Performance announced today that Dan Green, former Vice President of Design at Arc’teryx, has joined the company to lead Advanced Research & Development.

Green is widely respected within the performance apparel industry for his design leadership and innovative concepts. His impressive body of work includes 20 years spent at Arc’teryx, where he helped drive the development of outdoor and military apparel systems that set benchmarks across the industry.

At Tomahawk Performance, Green will lead Advanced R&D initiatives focused on development of next-generation technical apparel and layering systems. Working closely with Design Director Capri Philip, he will accelerate the innovation programs currently under way, including new material applications, evolved layering systems, and expanded design and product capabilities.

“I was part of Tomahawk’s early product concept push in 2023,” says Green. “It’s great to be back in the mix. I am really impressed that the original vision is sharper than ever and how incredibly far forward the brand has come. I am here to bring my practical hands-on approach to big projects that make a real difference.” Combining firsthand feedback from the military special operations and law enforcement community with Green’s deep expertise in technical apparel design strengthens Tomahawk’s ability to address complex, unresolved performance gaps in operational gear.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with Dan in the past, and I’m thrilled to have him join Tomahawk,” says Marc Elbaz, Tomahawk Performance CEO. “His ability to translate complex problems into innovative solutions is unparalleled. We have a lot of exciting work in front of us— expect to see transformative progress in the months ahead.”

Dan Green’s addition reinforces Tomahawk Performance’s position as a rapidly growing technical apparel company focused on purpose-driven solutions for demanding operational environments. Further announcements stemming from these advanced development programs are expected in the coming year.

For additional information, visit tomahawkperformance.com.