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KONGSBERG Awarded Full Rate Production Contract for ACV-30 Turrets

Wednesday, August 6th, 2025

KONGSBERG, NORWAY & JOHNSTOWN, PENN.– Aug. 5, 2025 – The United States Marine Corps has awarded a full-rate production contract to Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (‘KONGSBERG’) valued at up to $330 million for the 30mm remote turret for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle 30mm program (ACV-30).

The first order on the contract from PEO Land Systems Program Manager Advanced Amphibious Assault (PM AAA) includes a substantial number of turrets to be manufactured at Kongsberg’s remote weapon system facility in Johnstown, Penn. A recent expansion at the facility has resulted in more jobs and a dedicated medium caliber turret production line.

“Kongsberg is honoured to support the U.S. Marine Corps by equipping them with increased firepower and capacity,” said Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace. “The ACV-30 offers superior performance compared to current comparable systems, and we see the market potential for our medium caliber turrets as positive, both in the US and internationally.”

“The ACV-30 adds an important capability for Marines as we shift back to maritime expeditionary operations providing enhanced direct-fire lethality with Kongsberg’s 30mm fully stabilized weapon system,” said Christopher Melkonian, PM AAA at PEO Land Systems, United States Marine Corps. “Commonality within our lethality solutions provides benefits to the Marine Corps beyond the ACV program, streamlining training, concepts of operation and logistics.”

ACV-30 is one of four variants in the next-generation ACV family of vehicles designed, developed and built by BAE Systems, providing the U.S. Marine Corps with ship to shore capability in what will be a full replacement of the Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAV). The ACV-30 variant mounts Kongsberg’s stabilized, remotely operated MCT-30 that provides the capabilities and protection Marines need. The remote turret eliminates the space requirement of legacy turreted cannon systems, provides more room to transport troops or mission essential equipment and reduces weight for better mobility.

The ACV-30 turret is an evolution of the medium caliber turret successfully deployed in various operational environments. It has also been selected for the Marine Corps’ Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle, providing commonality across the service. The turret is vehicle agnostic, able to accept armour and a variety of effectors, including anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM).

All remote weapon stations and remote turrets delivered to U.S. customers are manufactured in Kongsberg’s Johnstown, Penn. facility and leverage an extensive American supply base. For 20 years, Kongsberg has been the sole provider of these systems to the U.S. and delivery programs include the Marine Air Defence Integrated System (MADIS) RWS and the Commonly Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) to the U.S. Army. More than 20,000 remote weapon stations and remote turrets have been produced in this facility since it opened in 2008.

This contract follows the purchase of long-lead items last winter to maintain production and delivery timelines for the U.S. Marine Corps’ ACV-30 program. The contract also includes negotiated options for additional systems. Initial deliveries are expected in the near future.

KONGSBERG in November 2024 announced a contract for long-lead items worth USD 51 million, signaling the start of the ACV-30 project. The order announced today is valued at about USD 118 million.

Posted in Contracts, Press Release, USMC, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on KONGSBERG Awarded Full Rate Production Contract for ACV-30 Turrets

Kopin Receives Contract Increase for US Army’s Next-Generation Short-Range Interceptor (NGSRI) Visual Display Subsystem (VDS)

Tuesday, August 5th, 2025

WESTBOROUGH, Mass. – Kopin Corporation (NASDAQ: KOPN), a leading provider of application-specific optical systems and high-performance microdisplays for defense, training, enterprise, industrial, consumer and medical products, today announced it has received a contract update for development Phase 2 of the Next-Generation Short-Range Interceptor (NGSRI) Visual Display Subsystem (VDS) from Lockheed Martin. As a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery, Lockheed Martin accelerates the delivery of transformative technologies through 21st Century Security®.

The NGSRI program aims to advance the capabilities of short-range missile defense systems. This update funds the build and test of the new high-resolution VDS assembly that includes Kopin’s proprietary organic light emitting diode (OLED) microdisplay, drive electronics, and optical designs for integration into the Command Launch Assembly (CLA)-a key system in the U.S. Army’s NGSRI initiative.

Under the Phase 2 contract update, Kopin will deliver fully assembled “All-Up Round” units-VDS assemblies for use in a variety of simulated and operational missile launch test scenarios.

“We are very pleased to have received the Phase 2 award for this critical program,” said Bill Maffucci, Kopin’s Senior Vice President of Business Development and Strategy. “We believe Kopin’s high-performance VDS assemblies offers an ideal solution for advanced missile systems and look forward to supporting the continued success of the NGSRI program.”

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Bundeswehr Requests Delivery of Over 1,000 Logistic Vehicles from Rheinmetall – Order Worth Around €770 Million

Monday, August 4th, 2025

The Bundeswehr has commissioned Rheinmetall to supply more than 1,000 logistic vehicles with a total value of around €770m gross. The order comprises 963 vehicles with swap-body systems, some with protected driver cabins, as well as swap-body flatbeds and tarpaulin-arch superstructures.

In addition, 425 unprotected transport vehicles (UTV) were requested for delivery. The UTVs are available in 4×4 and 8×8 versions.

“As a reliable partner of the Bundeswehr, we are delighted to be delivering additional vehicles and thus contributing to the mobility and operational readiness of the armed forces”, says André Barthel, Chairman of the Board of Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH (RMMV).

The delivery of the approximately 1,400 requested vehicles will take place before the end of this year. The orders have been booked for the third quarter of 2025.

The UTVs are c signed in July 2024 – the largest order in the company’s history in the field of logistics vehicles. It provides for the delivery of up to 6,500 vehicles with a gross value of up to €3.5bn. The framework contract allows the Bundeswehr to flexibly order additional quantities of the UTV 5t and UTV 15t models, which are already in service, over a period of seven years. In addition, the new vehicle class, which is now part of the call-off, was introduced via the framework contract. This is the 4×4 variant UTV 3.5 t, which has a maximum number of common parts with the UTV family.
The UTV family has already been contributing significantly to the performance of the Bundeswehr’s logistics units for several years. In July 2017, the Bundeswehr commissioned RMMV to supply its new ‘UTV mil gl in cargo load classes 5t and 15t’ family. Thanks to the use of flexible framework contracts concerning large quantities in military procurement, the UTVs have become a showcase project. Since 2017, around 7,000 HX vehicles have been delivered to the Bundeswehr together with swap-bodies and 70-tonne semi-trailer units.

UTV and swap-body systems are based on RMMV’s robust HX vehicle family. Designed for military use, they offer outstanding mobility even in difficult terrain.

The worldwide distribution of the HX vehicle family provides significant advantages in terms of interoperability and logistics, particularly for multinational operations. In addition to Germany, current users are the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Austria, Hungary, Singapore, Slovenia, Denmark and the Ukraine. The new order highlights the high acceptance of the proven HX vehicles. More than 20,000 vehicles are already in use worldwide.

Posted in Contracts, International, Logistics, Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on Bundeswehr Requests Delivery of Over 1,000 Logistic Vehicles from Rheinmetall – Order Worth Around €770 Million

VLTOR Weapon Systems Brings Industry Veteran Ash Hess Onboard

Monday, August 4th, 2025

Tucson, AZ — VLTOR Weapon Systems is proud to announce the addition of Ash Hess to its leadership team, where he will play a key role in business development and military sales.

Hess brings nearly 30 years of combined military and industry expertise. A retired U.S. Army Cavalryman and respected marksmanship instructor, he was instrumental in the authorship of multiple small arms training manuals and doctrinal updates, including TC 3-22.9. His recent work in military sales at Knight’s Armament Company focused on fulfilling end-user requirements by bridging the gap between engineering, operational needs, and product delivery.

“Bringing Ash onto the team is a strategic move as VLTOR enters its next chapter,” said Nick Wantland, Manager of VLTOR Weapon Systems. “His insight into end-user needs, especially in military contexts, will be key as we develop the next generation of VLTOR platforms.”

Since its founding in 2001, VLTOR has built its reputation on producing duty-grade components trusted across civilian, military, and law enforcement communities.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most respected names in the industry,” said Hess. “What drew me to VLTOR was its legacy — gear built for professionals, by professionals. It’s a quiet powerhouse, responsible for many of the innovations and systems that have become industry standards. Being part of the team is truly an honor.”

Posted in Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on VLTOR Weapon Systems Brings Industry Veteran Ash Hess Onboard

The Wing Group Secures Landmark Win in Insurance Bad Faith Lawsuit Against Lloyd’s of London Syndicates

Friday, August 1st, 2025

After a marathon dispute that began in February of 2021, a San Francisco jury found that the Lloyd’s Syndicates acted outrageously and in bad faith in handling Wing Inflatables, Inc.’s insurance claim and returned a significant verdict against Lloyd’s of London in July 2024 that included $3,094,083 in compensatory damages, pre judgment interest of $1,172,214 and $15,000,000 in punitive damages for a total award of $19,266,297. Judgment on the jury verdict was entered in August 2024. Wing was represented at trial by Mark C. Goodman, Barry J. Thompson and Michael T. Boardman of Baker McKenzie LLP.

Lloyd’s subsequently paid the prejudgment interest and compensatory damages part of the judgment but appealed the $15,000,000 punitive damages award. For its part, the Wing Group appealed a post-trial decision by the San Francisco court denying an award of attorneys’ feesto Wing. On appeal, Lloyd’s moved to dismiss the Wing Group’s appeal as untimely, but the California Court of Appeal denied that motion in a decision that has been certified for publication to provide guidance to other litigants in California with respect when the time to file an appeal begins to run. Accordingly, both appeals remain pending.

“We entered into an insurance relationship in good faith with Lloyd’s in 2019, expecting a business partnership that would protect us against unwanted surprises that might arise. Those expectations were never met. Lloyd’s misconduct, obfuscation, bullying, ignoring, belittling, and overall approach toward Wing, when we were in a time of need, is so disappointing and unfortunate. Every negative stereotype associated with the insurance industry was on grand display. In our view, this could be a case study in what not to do as an insurance company. I wish that this outcome would serve to change their behavior. Unfortunately, it appears it will not,” said Andrew Branagh, CEO of the Wing Group.

“Unlike many small businesses in its position, Wing had the fortitude to push back on Lloyd’s bad faith tactics and fight hard to obtain theinsurance policy benefits to which it was obviously entitled from the outset,” said Mark Goodman, Wing’s lead counsel. “It is unfortunate that Wing was required to expend so many resources to get what it deserved but we are obviously pleased that the jury saw Lloyd’s conduct for what it was and we look forward to Lloyd’s finally paying what it owes, both by satisfying the jury’s award and reimbursing Wing for the attorneys’ fees that it was forced to incur as a result of Lloyd’s bad faith conduct.”

The Wing Group is a California-based small business operating in the marine industry. The group and its companies manufacture life jackets, boats, and other safety equipment for both recreational users and U.S. military branches, including the Coast Guard.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on The Wing Group Secures Landmark Win in Insurance Bad Faith Lawsuit Against Lloyd’s of London Syndicates

LIFT Airborne Technologies Makes History with AV2 Vendetta – First Fixed-Wing Helmet to Pass USAF’s 600 KEAS Ejection Sled Test

Friday, August 1st, 2025

Six-year development journey leads to a new benchmark in military aviation safety and performance.

LIFT Airborne Technologies is proud to announce a historic breakthrough in aviation head protection with the AV2 Vendetta, the first fixed-wing flight helmet in history to pass the U.S. Air Force’s 600 KEAS ejection sled test — one of the most extreme and demanding milestones in military aviation. The AV2 also successfully completed over 50 additional MIL-STD tests, establishing a new standard for fixed-wing helmet systems. The AV2 Vendetta is the result of a six-year collaboration between LIFT Airborne and the U.S. Air Force through the AFWERX innovation program. Designed from the ground up to meet the needs of modern aircrews, AV2 reimagines the fixed-wing helmet from shell to optics – delivering unmatched safety, comfort, and mission adaptability. “We didn’t set out to make history,” said a LIFT Airborne spokesperson. “We set out to build a helmet worthy of the mission — and the people who wear it.”

AV2 Vendetta: Key Performance Highlights

+ 600 KEAS ejection sled certified — an industry first

+ 21% weight reduction over legacy systems

+ 22% improvement in center-of-gravity, reducing pilot fatigue

+ 2.6° increase in field of view for enhanced situational awareness

Constructed with 12K aerospace-grade carbon fiber, Koroyd®/EPS hybrid impact liner, and a MIL-STD-43511 magnetic visor system

Driven by a shared passion for flight and deep respect for those who serve, LIFT’s team of engineers, aviators, and test pilots embraced every challenge – from concept failures to design overhauls – with the belief that aircrews deserve the best protective gear possible.

The AV2 Vendetta represents more than a helmet. It is the foundation of a new generation of fixed-wing aviation equipment built for today’s flight environments and tomorrow’s missions.

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Helmets, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Nester Hosiery Acquires Assets of Fox River Mills

Friday, August 1st, 2025

Manufacturing to Move to North Carolina; New Product Development and Customer Service Center to Open in Osage, Iowa

July 31, 2025 – Mount Airy, NC – Nester Hosiery, LLC, a leading U.S. manufacturer of premium socks and accessory footwear, announced today that it has acquired the majority of assets of Fox River Mills, a heritage sock manufacturer based in Osage, Iowa. Following the transaction, Fox River Mills will begin to wind down its production operations in Osage and manufacturing assets will ultimately be relocated to Nester’s headquarters in Mount Airy, North Carolina. Nester and Fox River staff are working together closely to ensure on-time delivery of product to all of Fox River’s customers throughout the transitional period.

To provide opportunities for former Fox River employees and ensure continuity for customers and retail partners, Nester Hosiery plans to open a new product development and customer service center in Osage. The company also intends to employ most of Fox River’s sales, marketing, and design staff, as Nester Hosiery expands its brand and product portfolio.

“Fox River Mills has long been a highly respected brand in American sock manufacturing, with deep technical expertise and a robust customer base,” said Kelly Nester, CEO of Nester Hosiery.

“By acquiring its assets and welcoming many of its team members, we are expanding our domestic production capabilities and preserving important industry knowledge and relationships that align with our commitment to U.S. manufacturing.”

Nester Hosiery will integrate the Fox River, Pistil, and Anywear Essentials brands into its growing lineup of socks and accessories, which includes its Farm to Feet ® brand and other private label and licensed offerings. Fox River Mills has a strong legacy of producing high-quality socks for U.S. military service members — a tradition Nester Hosiery is proud to continue with the acquisition. As an established supplier to the U.S. government, Nester will carry forward Fox River’s commitment to comfort, durability, and performance for those who serve.

“This is an exciting new chapter for Nester Hosiery and a meaningful step forward for the Fox River legacy,” Nester added.

“We are grateful to the Fox River team and the Osage community for theircollaboration and are committed to building on that foundation with integrity, innovation, and a continued focus on U.S.-made excellence.”

Posted in Clothing, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Nester Hosiery Acquires Assets of Fox River Mills

DroneShield Showcases Next-Gen Counter-Drone Tech to DHS Leadership

Thursday, July 31st, 2025

DroneShield presented proven capabilities and next-generation technologies to address surging drone threats at America’s borders and critical sites to U.S. Department of Homeland Security

July 30, 2025 – Warrenton, Virginia – DroneShield, a global leader in counter-uncrewed systems (CUxS) technology, proudly participated in a demonstration hosted by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Unmanned Technology Operations Center in Summit Point, West Virginia, on July 24, 2025. The event convened DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, senior DHS officials, and CUAS solutions providers, highlighting the Department’s urgent focus on addressing the escalating drone threats to national security.

This event followed closely behind a recent U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, where Steven Willoughby, Director of the DHS Counter-UAS Program Management Office, highlighted the growing danger drones pose. He testified:

“Nearly every day, transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) use drones to convey illicit narcotics and contraband across U.S. borders and conduct hostile surveillance of law enforcement.”

Secretary Noem, a vocal advocate for expanding CUAS capabilities, emphasized earlier this year during a Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing that:

“United States Coast Guard (USCG) tasks require every cutter to be equipped with CUAS technology.”

Secretary Noem further reinforced this urgency in a recent social media post, stating:
“We’re in the middle of a weapons-technology revolution—and our enemies know it. Drones are now being used to smuggle deadly drugs, target our infrastructure, and spy on U.S. defenses. We must be ready.”

During the demonstration, Secretary Noem met with the DroneShield team and received a briefing on its field-proven counter-drone technologies. These systems have been actively supporting Ukraine’s CUAS efforts since the start of the conflict and continue to evolve to meet a broad spectrum of emerging threats. With more than 11 years of exclusive focus on CUAS technologies, DroneShield has long been an advocate for securing U.S. borders and critical infrastructure from the risks posed by uncrewed aerial systems.

“Never before have we seen such alignment and sense of purpose across all levels of the Department of Homeland Security,” said Matt McCrann, CEO of DroneShield LLC. “The whole-of-agency approach on display at Industry Day demonstrates DHS’ intent to address the surging drone threat with speed, unity, and effectiveness.”

With drone threats steadily rising and impacting U.S. borders, airports, stadiums, and emergency responders, DroneShield remains committed to supporting national security with advanced, mission-ready CUAS capabilities. DroneShield’s solutions are purpose-built and engineered to be simple to train, easy to use, and quick to deploy, giving teams a decisive edge when seconds matter.

“As drone threats continue to evolve rapidly, it is essential that the U.S. and its allies have ready access to trusted, combat-proven countermeasures,” added McCrann.

Tom Branstetter, Vice President of Business Development and Sales at DroneShield, commented, “This demonstration reaffirmed DHS’ focus on taking decisive steps forward – and we’re proud to contribute our expertise and solutions to support that mission.”

“DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Attends Drone Demo” by U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), United States Government Work

Pictured: DroneShield’s Tom Branstetter, VP of Business Development and Sales and Matt McCrann,

Posted in LE, Press Release, UAS | 1 Comment »