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Archive for the ‘weapons’ Category

FN Herstal Launches FN Arka Assault Rifle

Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026

Chambered in 5.56mm NATO the new FN ARKA Assault Rifle was announced today by FN Herstal.

A completely new design, FN has combined AR-style ergonomics to the SCAR platform’s proven short-stroke gas piston system. It also features an adjustable gas regulator for firing in adverse environments or with a suppressor.

FN states that the platform retains familiar AR controls and compatibility with standard AR buttstocks and pistol grips, while offering a fully ambidextrous and symmetrical design for enhanced operational flexibility.

It seems that everyone is looking toward high pressure ammunition. According to FN, the FN ARKA incorporates a robust locking mechanism designed to withstand severe overpressure.

The FN ARKA comes standard with either a 14.5” standard barrel and a short or long M-LOK handguard, or a 11.25” CQC barrel and short M-LOK handguard. All configurations are available in FDE or Black and with selective fire or semi-auto only triggers.

fnherstal.com/en/defence/portable-weapons/carbines-rifles-grenade-launchers/fn-arka

Rampart Range Day – Glock G45 COA

Monday, June 1st, 2026

Rampart had the Glock G45 COA on display as well as available for firing on the range.

As recently adopted by Canada’s Halifax Regional Police, the Gen 5 G45 is equipped with the Aimpoint COA red dot optic system incorporating an exclusive A-CUT mounting solution, Streamlight TLR-7 X weapon-mounted light and Safariland duty holsters.

This and other products shown at Rampart Range Day are available for unit and agency orders in Canada and the US through Rampart.

Rampart Range Day 26 – Colt C27 Grenade Launcher

Friday, May 29th, 2026

In conjunction with the new C25 General Purpose Carbine and C26 Full Spectrum Rifles displayed by Colt Canada at Rampart Range Day, they showed the latest upgrade to their EAGLE 40mm grenade launcher which is to be designated as the C27 by the Canadian military.

Seen above in its stand alone configuration with stock and optics rail, it can also be fitted to the 6 o’clock position on Picatinny rail equipped rifles with recoil lugs. It is held secured to the rail via the two captured pins.

Already in limited service with the Canadian Armed Forces, it has replaced the M203. This side opener features a double action trigger allowing the shooter to immediately mitigate a misfire without opening the breech to re-cock the weapon.

It features fully ambitious controls and the barrel can be configured to open to the left or the right.

First Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units Delivered to the US Army

Thursday, May 28th, 2026

Continued Raytheon investment will increase annual production

TUCSON, Ariz., May 26, 2026 — The Javelin Joint Venture (JJV), a partnership between Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, and Lockheed Martin, has delivered the first Lightweight Command Launch Units (LWCLU) to the U.S. Army. The LWCLU, a next-generation launcher for the Javelin® weapon system, is designed to be adaptable and compatible with all current, past and future Javelin variants. The launcher is replacing the weapon system’s legacy command launch unit.

To date, Raytheon has invested $22 million to modernize the LWCLU factory to increase speed of production and expand capacity. In collaboration with the U.S. Army, the facility in Tucson, Ariz., is ramping annual production. 

“Delivering the first LWCLUs to the U.S. Army reflects the Javelin Joint Venture’s commitment to continuously advancing technology for service members,” said Jenna Hunt Frazier, JJV president and Javelin program director at Raytheon. “Our investments in modernization and production capacity ensures soldiers receive this cutting-edge capability faster.”

The Javelin LWCLU provides soldiers with twice the target detection and recognition range while reducing size by 30% and weight by 25%. The LWCLU maximizes surveillance for soldiers, offering day and night engagement capability.

“The production and delivery of the LWCLU marks a pivotal step in modernizing the Javelin system for today’s warfighter,”?said Rich Liccion, JJV vice president and Lockheed Martin Javelin program director. “Its innovative design enhances mobility and survivability while preserving the precision firepower that users rely on.”

Javelin is developed and produced by the JJV between Raytheon in Tucson, Arizona and Lockheed Martin in Orlando, Florida.

Daniel Defense Announces Return of a Legend, the Iconic GL/SSC Platform in Pistol Caliber and SBR Configurations

Thursday, May 28th, 2026

BLACK CREEK, Ga. — Daniel Defense is announcing the return of its legendary GL/SSC (Grenade Launcher/Sound Suppressor Capable) platform, now available to the commercial market for the first time in both short-barreled rifle (SBR) and pistol caliber configurations.

Originally developed as a hard-use, mission-ready system for US Special Forces, the GL/SSC helped establish Daniel Defense’s reputation as a global leader for purpose-built combat rifles. The GL/SSC is now being reintroduced with modern enhancements for the civilian market while maintaining its proven performance characteristics.

The GL/SSC features a 12.5-inch, cold hammer forged, chrome-lined government-profile barrel paired with a carbine-length gas system, delivering durability and consistent reliability. The platform is chambered in 5.56 NATO and incorporates Daniel Defense’s battle-proven RIS II rail system, offering a free-floating design that preserves barrel harmonics while providing ample space for accessories.

“The GL/SSC represents a significant part of our history,” said Travis Tipps, Brand Manager at Daniel Defense. “Bringing this platform back- now accessible to a broader audience-demonstrates our continued commitment to innovation rooted in proven design.”

Engineered for versatility, the GL/SSC is compatible with suppressors and M203 mounting accessories via its free-float hangar system. The firearm is equipped with a 1:7 twist rate barrel, A2 flash hider and maintains an unloaded weight of approximately 6.2 pounds, with an overall length ranging from 29 to 32.25 inches depending on configuration.

The platform is available in multiple variants, including SBR and braced pistol models, as well as upper receiver groups, allowing users to tailor their setup to mission or personal preference.

For more information, visit DanielDefense.com.

Rampart Range Day 26 – Canadian Modular Assault Rifle Update

Wednesday, May 27th, 2026

Manufactured by Colt Canada, the two variants of the Canadian Modular Assault Rifle have been designated C25 and C26 and will replace the currently fielded C7 and C8 which have been in service for 35 years. Chambered in 5.56mm NATO, Colt Canada was able to quickly bring the project to fruition due to improvement efforts which have been ongoing.

I was able to photograph and fire both variants at Rampart Range Day. These photos are configured as per the contract, including optics and outfitted with the Strategic Sciences Corporation Multi Function Muzzle Device provided in Canada by Millbrook Strategic Sciences. Interestingly, the Department of National Defence did not option the add-on component of the MFMD and are sticking solely with the primary device. Additionally, both models are outfitted with new variable power optics by Colt Optics.

Both feature ambidextrous controls and a single piece upper receiver which integrates the handguard.

The C25 (General Service) features:

  • 13.7″ barrel
  • 5 M-Lok slots
  • 1-6x LVPO

Still in final development, the C26 (Full Spectrum) features:

  • 15.7″ barrel
  • 7 M-Lok slots
  • 1-10x LVPO

The production contract which was awarded in March calls for 30,000 assault rifles between 2026 and 2029.

Halifax Regional Police Selects GLOCK G45 COA as New Duty Pistol Platform

Friday, May 22nd, 2026

OTTAWA, ON – RAMPART, Canada’s leading supplier of operational equipment to Military and Law Enforcement end users, is proud to announce that Halifax Regional Police (HRP), the largest municipal police service in Atlantic Canada, has selected the GLOCK G45 COA as its new duty pistol platform following a competitive evaluation process focused on safety, reliability, and ease of use.

The new platform includes the GLOCK G45 Gen 5 COA pistol equipped with the Aimpoint COA red dot optic system incorporating an exclusive A-CUT mounting solution, Streamlight TLR-7 X weapon-mounted lights, Safariland duty holsters, and GLOCK G45T training pistols. The transition will also include instructor and armourer training to support long-term deployment of the new system across the service.

The G45 COA platform represents the next evolution of duty pistols, combining the proven GLOCK Gen 5 operating system with a purpose-built optic solution engineered in collaboration with Aimpoint. The A-CUT mounting interface provides an integrated, low-profile optic mounting system designed specifically for duty use.

With this adoption, Halifax Regional Police joins a number ofAtlantic Canadian agencies currently utilizing GLOCK pistol platforms through Rampart, including Fredericton Police Force Tactical Unit, Summerside Police Service, Kensington Police Service, Kentville Police Service, and Grand Falls Police Force. GLOCK pistols are currently deployed by over 90% of Canadian Law Enforcement agencies at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels, further reinforcing the platform’s widespread adoption across Canada.

“We are proud to support Halifax Regional Police in this important transition,” said Mike Klein, President of Rampart. “The selection of the GLOCK G45 COA reflects the continued evolution of modern Law Enforcement pistol programs toward integrated optics-ready systems built around reliability and performance. We look forward to supporting HRP throughout the transition and beyond.”

Saab Receives Carl-Gustaf Order from Lithuania

Thursday, May 21st, 2026

Saab has received an order from Lithuania for the Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon and training equipment. The order value is SEK 460 million with deliveries planned 2026-2029.

The order is part of a newly signed contract between Saab and Lithuania, which allows for potential options collectively valued up to a total of SEK 640 million. The agreement is valid for ten years and includes Carl-Gustaf M4 weapons, sub-calibre adapters for the use of training ammunition and Carl-Gustaf Outdoor Trainers. The agreement also includes cooperation with the Lithuanian defence industry in accordance with Lithuanian regulations.

“We are proud to continue providing the Lithuanian forces with the highly effective capabilities of the Carl-Gustaf weapon together with our training equipment, enabling the soldiers to prepare for and carry out their missions safely and with confidence,” says Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s business area Dynamics.

The Carl-Gustaf recoilless rifle is a man-portable, multi-role weapon system that allows dismounted soldiers to safely and effectively deal with multiple challenges on the modern battlefield. Adaptable and flexible, the system is constantly evolving to meet user and market needs. The Carl-Gustaf training systems enable advanced and collective skills training, allowing forces to prepare for a wide range of scenarios.