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Xenith Solutions Secures Position on Missile Defense Agency SHIELD Contract, Advancing Role in National Missile Defense Modernization

Friday, December 26th, 2025

LEESBURG, Va., Dec. 22, 2025 — Xenith Solutions, a mission-driven government contractor supporting national defense and homeland security priorities, today announced it has been selected as an awardee under the Missile Defense Agency’s (MDA) Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense (SHIELD) multiple-award contract vehicle.

The SHIELD contract establishes a long-term acquisition framework to accelerate the development, integration, and sustainment of advanced layered homeland missile defense capabilities. Through this vehicle, Xenith Solutions will compete for task orders supporting research and development, systems engineering, prototyping, experimentation, modernization, and sustainment efforts, including the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning-enabled technologies where appropriate.

SHIELD supports the administration’s Golden Dome missile defense initiative and is structured to enable rapid innovation and scalable execution across geographically distributed mission environments. Work performed under the contract may occur nationwide, with an ordering period that could extend through December 2035 if all options are exercised.

“Being selected for the SHIELD contract vehicle meaningfully expands Xenith’s role in the missile defense ecosystem and accelerates our progression into larger, more complex mission environments,” said Lee Shabe, Chief Executive Officer of Xenith Solutions. “This award positions Xenith to compete, scale, and deliver across high-impact defense programs where speed, integration, and mission outcomes matter most. We see SHIELD as a platform for sustained growth and long-term partnership with the Missile Defense Agency.”

“SHIELD represents the type of opportunity which supports Xenith’s evolution into a recognized mid-tier defense partner where deep mission understanding, technical rigor, and speed of execution matter,” stated Mark Coleman, Chief Growth Officer at Xenith Solutions. “Our growth strategy is focused on delivering differentiated, cutting-edge solutions that solve our customers’ most complex challenges, not just responding to requirements. This contract vehicle positions Xenith to scale thoughtfully while continuing to lead with innovation and mission outcomes.”

Participation in SHIELD aligns with Xenith’s broader growth strategy to deepen its presence across the defense market while scaling delivery capabilities in enterprise IT, cybersecurity, data engineering, and systems integration. The award further reinforces the company’s ability to support mission owners with agile, resilient solutions designed to meet evolving threat landscapes and operational demands.

www.xenithsolutions.com

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DroneShield Secures $6.2M Asia Pacific Contract

Friday, December 26th, 2025

Image: DroneShield DroneSentry-X Mk2 as part of NATO Exercise Bold Machina 25 in the Netherlands

DroneShield has received a $6.2 million contract for an Asia Pacific military end-customer.

Delivery and cash payment is expected in 2026.

DroneShield Limited (ASX:DRO) (DroneShield of the Company) is pleased to announce it has received a standalone contract for $6.2 million from an in-country reseller for delivery to a military end-customer in an Asia Pacific country. The reseller is a wholly-owned subsidiary of a multi-billion dollar, global, publicly listed customer that is contractually required to distribute solutions to a major Asia Pacific military government department. The solutions include selected 3rd party hardware, interoperable with DroneShield’s command-and-control software platform, DroneSentry-C2. DroneShield expects to complete the delivery and receive payment in 2026.

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Cutting-edge Drone Defence Technology: Italy Receives Its First Skynex Air Defence System from Rheinmetall

Friday, December 26th, 2025

Handover to the Italian Army at the Sabaudia base has been completed

The Italian Army has received its first Skynex air defence system from Rheinmetall. On 18 December 2025, the first Skynex battery was handed over to the Italian Army at the Comando Artiglieria Controaeri (Air Defence Artillery Command) in Sabaudia. This gives the Italian Army the capability to defend against air attacks at close and very close range. In particular, it will enable effective countermeasures against drones, which – as seen in the war in Ukraine – are playing an increasingly important role in current and future conflicts and are bringing warfare into cities.

It was only in January 2025 that Rheinmetall Italia S.p.A., Rome, received the order to deliver the first system with a total value of €73 million. The contract also includes an option for three additional systems.

Italy is the first NATO member state to introduce Rheinmetall’s Skynex technology Skynex technology including the Revolver Gun Mk3 35mm. The order is thus an important corner stone in Rheinmetall’s strategy of establishing a new standard in the field of cannon-based air defence for international armed forces. NATO member Romania also recently opted for Skynex in combination with another type of gun already in service there (GDF-009 twin guns). Skynex air defence systems are already proving their quality to the Ukrainian armed forces in the harsh conditions of war, protecting people and property from airborne threats.

The Skynex Air Defence System

Skynex is a cannon-based air defence system and is therefore especially suitable for close-range protection where guided weapons cannot operate effectively. The 35mm Revolver Gun Mk3 cannons have a cadence of 1,000 rounds per minute and a range of up to 4 kilometres. The system uses programmable Ahead ammunition that is resistant to electronic countermeasures and ensures precise target engagement. In terms of cost-effectiveness, the ammunition is significantly more efficient than comparable missile-based systems.

Operational successes in the Ukraine underline the efficiency with which the cannon-based air defence system can defend against air targets – especially cruise missiles and drones.

Skynex is based on the concept of separating the airspace surveillance from the effectors. Italy has opted for the configuration with the XTAR 3D radar from Rheinmetall, which can monitor the airspace in a radius of up to 50 km.

Thanks to its existing modularity, the required resources can be connected to the command-and-control network depending on the mission. Skynex offers great autonomy in terms of sensors and effectors, as to integrating a wide range of modern air defence systems into the system. The only requirement is the presence of a dedicated tracking unit.

In addition to individual sensors and effectors, existing air defence systems such as Rheinmetall’s Skyshield and Skyguard families can also be integrated into the new architecture as firing units. The detected air situation is displayed in a remote command-and-control centre on a map with the sensors and effectors positioned in the field, thus easing a target assignment to the air defence assets connected to the system.

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Mehler Systems’ 2025 Year in Review

Friday, December 26th, 2025

FULDA, GERMANY (22.12.2025)

As 2025 draws to a close, Mehler Systems reflects on a year defined by structural strengthening, continued innovation, and the delivery of large-scale protection programmes across global markets. Throughout the year, the group focused on expanding its capabilities, increasing production capacity, and reinforcing long-term partnerships with defence and security organisations worldwide.

During the year, Mehler Systems expanded its technological base through the acquisition of a majority stake in Stilmotor Extra Protection Srl (SXP), adding specialised expertise in body armour and riot protection. The group now comprises eight companies with more than 1,600 employees across Europe.

Production capacity was further increased through infrastructure investments, including a new production hall in Zrenjanin and upgrades to sewing operations. These investments supported higher output while maintaining consistent quality standards across product categories. Testing and validation remained a core focus, with extensive internal ballistic testing and certification activities conducted in cooperation with specialised laboratories.

Product development continued at high intensity, resulting in the introduction of hundreds of new solutions across ballistic protection, load-bearing systems, and tactical clothing. A key milestone was reached as more than one million Mehler Systems protective vest systems entered operational use worldwide, reflecting long-term programme continuity.

Several major programmes underscored the group’s ability to deliver at scale. The MOBAST programme for the German Armed Forces was completed fully on time with zero rejected units, requiring rapid scaling of production capacity and close coordination across the group.

Alongside operational achievements, Mehler Systems invested in leadership development and talent, with key management appointments and continued workforce growth across the group. The company also maintained an active international presence through trade shows, partner engagement, and professional exchange.

Looking ahead, Mehler Systems remains focused on strengthening its foundations, advancing development, and delivering reliable protection solutions for defence and security professionals operating in demanding environments.

For further details, visit the Mehler Systems 2025 Yearly Review.

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AV Delivers JLTV-Mounted LOCUST Laser Weapon Systems to US Army

Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025

ARLINGTON, Va., December 18, 2025 –AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a leading provider of counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) technologies, today announced the successful delivery of two Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV)-mounted mobile C-UAS Laser Weapon Systems (LWS) to the U.S. Army as part of the second increment of the Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL) prototyping effort. These systems were delivered to the Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO), now integrated into the Portfolio Acquisition Executive Fires, reflecting the Army’s ongoing transformation and acquisition reform efforts.

In September, AV announced delivery of the first increment of AMP-HEL prototype systems–two LOCUST LWS integrated on the General Motors Defense Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV) platform. This second-increment system on the Oshkosh JLTV platform features the same 20kW-class LOCUST LWS with a larger aperture beam director, improving lethality performance.

“AV continues to deliver proven, efficient, modular laser weapon systems that perform and protect in real-world threat environments,” said Mary Clum, President, Space, Cyber & Directed Energy for AV. “Integrated as part of these AMP-HEL systems, LOCUST is a cost-effective, rugged, precise, and scalable solution that is addressing the ever-evolving UAS threats our warfighters are facing on frontlines today. With the technology proven, we remain focused on advancing capabilities while scaling manufacturing to meet the growing demand.”

AV delivered its first LOCUST LWS to RCCTO as part of the Palletized-High Energy Laser (P-HEL) program in 2022. With more than three years of operational deployment outside the United States, these state-of-the-art LWS have demonstrated exceedingly high operational availability rates for prototype systems after first generation lessons learned informed necessary improvements now supporting current technology development efforts. During these deployments, the LOCUST-equipped P-HEL systems, now integrated on AMP-HEL, have performed their designed mission against UAS threats in real world combat.

“Directed energy is no longer a future concept—it is a proven force-protection capability,” said John Garrity, Vice President of AV’S Directed Energy business unit. “Since deployed, LOCUST-equipped P-HEL systems have actively protected warfighters, allies, and critical infrastructure against aerial threats. With LOCUST’s target acquisition, tracking and precision beam control, warfighters have an easy-to-use, reliable, trusted, and proven solution against the very real and evolving threats of modern warfare.”

Designed to be platform-agnostic and rapidly deployable, AV’s directed-energy systems integrate seamlessly with Army command-and-control architectures, providing a critical C-UAS capability that protects Soldiers and assets across a wide range of missions and environments. These systems have been successfully integrated in fixed-site base defense systems and on maneuverable platforms, including the ISV and JLTV, and mounted on the Light Medium Tactical Vehicle for increased mobility.

www.avinc.com

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NSA Strengthens Its Safety Solutions for Frontline Workers with the Addition of Nasco Industries

Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025

NASCO is NSA’s third acquisition this year, bringing the total to 18 acquisitions to date

CLEVELAND / December 18, 2025 / National Safety Apparel (“NSA”), is pleased to announce the acquisition of NASCO Industries, Inc., a U.S.-based manufacturer of premium flame-resistant rainwear and protective outerwear.

This strategic addition marks NSA’s third acquisition in 2025 — reinforcing the company’s commitment to disciplined, long-term growth. In total, NSA has now completed 18 acquisitions, underscoring its position as a leader in the personal protective equipment (PPE) industry.

Founded in 1979 and headquartered in Washington, Indiana, NASCO has built a strong reputation for high-quality protective outerwear solutions designed for workers in demanding environments, including utilities, oil & gas, construction, transportation and industrial sectors. Its product portfolio features flame-resistant rainwear, high-visibility apparel and rugged outerwear engineered to help protect against electric arcs, flash fires, chemical splashes, roadside hazards and harsh weather, depending on the garment, while prioritizing comfort and mobility.

“We are thrilled to welcome NASCO into the NSA family,” said NSA CEO Chuck Grossman. “This partnership strengthens our position in the flame-resistant rainwear market and expands our coverage in the electric utility PPE segment. NASCO’s craftsmanship, reputation for excellence and commitment to innovation align perfectly with our mission to deliver best-in-class safety solutions to frontline workers.”

The integration of NASCO’s flame-resistant rainwear lines will strengthen NSA’s portfolio of safety solutions for electrical, industrial and service sectors. These products will be seamlessly incorporated across the platform, unlocking new opportunities for innovation and delivering enhanced value to customers.

“Joining forces with NSA represents an exciting new chapter for NASCO,” said NASCO CEO Jordan Sherman. “For decades, we’ve focused on building high-performance protective solutions. NSA’s resources, culture and dedication to quality make them an ideal partner to advance that mission and deliver even greater value to the workers who rely on our products.”

“This acquisition caps off a milestone year for NSA,” said Blue Point Partner Jonathan Pressnell. “NASCO’s expertise and complementary product lines strengthen NSA’s market position and create meaningful opportunities for continued innovation and growth. Blue Point is proud to support NSA’s vision and remains committed to providing the resources needed for sustainable expansion.”

NSA is actively seeking additional partnerships with like-minded founders and business owners who specialize in safety products. Business owners interested in learning more may contact Blue Point Managing Director, Business Development Megan Kneipp at mkneipp@bluepointcapital.com.

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Safe-Pro USA Appoints 20+ Year Defense and Protective Equipment Industry Leader as VP of Marketing and Sales as it Expands its Ballistics Business

Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025

Ballistics Protection Business Ramps-Up Activity Targeting Law Enforcement and Government Contracts with New High-Performance Products and Marketing Plans

AVENTURA, Fla. – December 19, 2025 – Safe Pro Group Inc. (Nasdaq: SPAI) (“Safe Pro” or the “Company”), a developer of artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled defense and security solutions, today announced that its ballistic protective products unit, Safe-Pro USA (SPUSA), has appointed Michael Wratten as its new Vice President of Marketing and Sales. This appointment is part of broad business development and expansion initiatives currently under way as it responds to the increased domestic need for advanced, high- performance body armor and the demand for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) protective gear designed to support ongoing international humanitarian demining missions.

Mr. Wratten brings more than two decades of strategic leadership, product innovation, and operational excellence in the defense and protective equipment industry to Safe-Pro USA. He has founded multiple entities focused on protective solutions, driven product strategy and design, negotiated key contracts, and fostered long-term partnerships across military, law enforcement, and commercial markets. His experience includes founding Shellback Tactical, a protective products company serving law enforcement acquired by US Patriot where he served as vice president, as VP of strategy, business, and product development at Chase Tactical and as VP at US Armor. Mr. Wratten has also advised and served as a consultant for strategy and product design at Spartan Armor and at PREVAIL. For 20 years, he also served as an officer with the Los Angeles and West Covina police departments. At Safe-Pro USA, Michael will lead strategic growth initiatives, oversee brand, and market expansion, and apply growth strategies across tactical, ballistic and EOD products lines.

“As we continue our mission to develop innovative ballistic protection solutions than can help our military, law enforcement and public safety personnel meet the ever-evolving threats, Michael’s unique combination of industry leadership, on the street experience and entrepreneurial spirit make him an ideal fit for Safe Pro,” said Dan Erdberg, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Safe Pro Group.

In response to increased customer activity and recent orders for ballistic plates and protective gear, Safe-Pro USA is currently implementing multiple long-term growth initiatives including:

• Expanding its Ballistic Products Portfolio – In response to the latest National Institute of Justice (NIJ) 0101.07 ballistic protection standard, SPUSA submitted five ultra-light and ultra-thin body armor and vest products for testing and certification. Obtaining the NIJ 0101.07 certification for its products will be a key differentiator in the market and will enable Safe-Pro USA to access federal and state contracts as end users in these markets upgrade the ballistic protection gear for their personnel.

• ISO 9001 and Business and Manufacturing Process Improvements – Ahead of anticipated increased production demands, SPUSA is in the final phase of its business and manufacturing process improvement program which includes obtaining a Six Sigma certification and ISO 9001 quality management certification milestones. Collectively, these efforts will enable Safe-Pro USA to meet common requirements in federal and state contracting while improving production efficiency and quality.

• Increased Marketing and New E-Commerce Sales Capability – Building on SPUSA’s over 30 years of experience serving the needs of military and law enforcement customers, in 2026, it will implement a series of marketing and sales activities including online and offline brand-building programs. This effort is designed to increase the awareness and visibility for its high performance, American-made products with potential law enforcement and government customers. Starting in January, SPUSA will be participating in the 2026 Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade ShowSM (SHOT Show®), one of the largest of its kind events for target shooting, hunting, outdoor recreation and law enforcement where it plans to highlight its new NIJ 0101.07-compliant ultra-light and ultra-thin body armor. During 2026, SPUSA also intends to launch a new e-commerce, direct-to-consumer sales channel for select, in- demand products as well as conduct an array of industry-wide product marketing and advertising programs.

Commenting on his appointment, Michael Wratten added, “I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Safe-Pro USA team at time when innovation in American-made ballistic protection is urgently needed. Safe-Pro USA’s long history and proven expertise in the development of advanced armor composites creates a solid foundation for the future and that is why I am so excited to support its further growth into the large defense and law enforcement markets.”

Safe-Pro USA, a HUBZone-certified small business, is a specialist in the manufacturer of ultra-premium bullet and blast resistant protection equipment utilized by domestic and international customers in the military, law enforcement, and humanitarian/peacekeeping markets. It has more than 30 years of combined experience in the U.S. defense industry with a proven expertise and strength in the design, engineering, and manufacture of advanced armor composites. Safe-Pro USA offers a full array of bullet and blast resistant personal protection equipment including complete Explosive Ordnance Disposal Systems, demining aprons and bomb blankets, body armor and ballistic plates. Many of its products are available for purchase by Federal, State and Local government customers and agencies under a Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) contract by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA).

For more information about Safe Pro Group, its subsidiaries, and technologies, please visit safeprogroup.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

About Safe Pro Group Inc.

Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI) is a mission-driven technology company delivering AI-enabled security and defense solutions. Through cutting-edge platforms like SPOTD, Safe Pro provides advanced situational awareness tools for defense, humanitarian, and homeland security applications globally. It is a leading provider of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions specializing in drone imagery processing, leveraging commercially available “off-the-shelf” drones with its proprietary machine learning and computer vision technology to enable rapid identification of explosives threats, providing a much safer and more efficient alternative to traditional human-based analysis methods. Built on a cloud-based ecosystem and powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS), Safe Pro Group’s scalable platform is targeting multiple markets that include commercial, government, law enforcement and humanitarian sectors where its Safe Pro AI software, Safe-Pro USA protective gear and Airborne Response drone-based services can work in synergy to deliver safety and operational efficiency. For more information on Safe Pro Group Inc., please visit safeprogroup.com.

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Badger Ordnance Announces Condition One Charging Handle (C1CH)

Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025

Badger Ordnance (North Kansas City, MO) is pleased to introduce the Condition One Charging Handle (C1CH), the 4th generation from the inventors of the ambidextrous charging handle. The C1CH is a sleek and robust ambidextrous charging handle made for the AR15/M16/M4 family of weapon systems.

Unlike other offerings on the market, our C1CH is machined from 7075 forgings, rather than billet or extrusions, resulting in a significantly stronger charging handle. This is a commitment that we have maintained since we originated the ambidextrous charging handle, because we believe that it is a necessary quality for end-users, despite the additional effort required to manufacture. Large stainless-steel pins hold the ergonomically designed latches, featuring vertical serrations in the front and back, offering a nonslip grip, and are rounded at the ends to reduce snagging. This improvement comes after extensive testing with a manufacturing partner in their rifle testing, along with feedback from users requiring the use of plate carriers and vests in their work.

The C1CH width is a narrow 2.42″ wide, offering enough purchase to easily make ready while not being overly bulky. The rear of the C1CH has heightened fencing to aid in diverting felt gas blowback from the shooter’s face. Finished in a Type III hardcoat anodizing, offered in both black and tan colorways. In 2026 we will be bringing our 7.62 and MCX compatible models to market.

The C1CH is available now directly from Badger Ordnance and from participating dealers.

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