FirstSpear TV

Safran Federal Systems Demonstrates Blacknaute Inertial Navigation System on US Army Black Hawk Following AUSA Debut

January 22nd, 2026

ROCHESTER, NY – January 21, 2025

Safran Federal Systems, a trusted U.S. Department of Defense mission partner and leader in Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (A-PNT), announced the successful flight demonstration of its Blacknaute™ Inertial Navigation System (INS) aboard a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.

Purpose-built for multi-domain operations, Blacknaute™ delivers precise navigation in GPS-denied and electronic warfare-contested environments, fulfilling a critical need for resilient, open-architecture PNT capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains.

The live flight test confirmed Blacknaute’s ability to maintain high-accuracy inertial performance without GNSS support, validating operational readiness just days after its U.S. debut at the 2025 Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting & Exposition in Washington, D.C.

“Our demonstration onboard the Army Black Hawk showcases the tactical readiness of Blacknaute™,”said Jon Leombrone, Executive Vice President of Navigation Systems at Safran Federal Systems. “The system maintained drift of less than 0.4 nautical miles per hour over several hours—proof of its SWaP-optimized, NAVWAR-resilient design engineered for rapid deployment across the Joint Force.”

Blacknaute™ combines multiple cutting-edge technologies in a rugged, lightweight system weighing less than 16 pounds. Key features include:

HRG Dual Core™ Technology: Safran’s patented hemispherical resonator gyro platform, fielded in more than 40,000 units and proven over 30 million operational hours across defense and aerospace applications.

M-Code Ready GNSS Receiver: Supports secure, multi-constellation satellite navigation using military-grade M-Code signals.

Ultra-Stable Atomic Clock: Provides highly precise timing with drift of less than one second every 30,000 years, ensuring reliable synchronization across mission systems.

Interference Detection and Mitigation (IDM): Built-in capabilities for detecting and mitigating GPS spoofing and jamming threats, enhancing survivability in electronic warfare environments.

Open Systems Architecture: Fully compliant with MIL-STD interfaces and TSO-C220 standards, enabling plug-and-play integration with modular open systems used across modern defense platforms.

Safran Federal Systems provides advanced, classified navigation and PNT solutions to Safran Defense & Space, Inc. (Safran DSI), accelerating innovation across multi-domain operations in support of U.S. defense programs.

For more information, visit us at BlackNaute | Air Navigation | Safran Federal Systems.

GM Defense Establishes UK Entity and Accelerates Team LionStrike Delivery Planning

January 22nd, 2026

FARNBOROUGH, UK – GM Defense has launched GM Defense UK, creating a dedicated presence to support the UK’s defence priorities and strengthen sovereign capability.

Operating from GM’s sites in Leamington Spa and Silverstone, the new entity will lead all UK Ministry of Defence engagement and anchor GM’s wider NATO and European defence activity—boosting UK industry and export potential.

The launch comes as GM Defense intensifies its delivery and support planning for Team LionStrike, ahead of bidding for the UK’s upcoming Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) programme.

“Standing up GM Defense UK is a major milestone in our long?term commitment to the United Kingdom,” said Bradley Watters, vice president of international business development. “Team LionStrike is different because GM—backed by more than a century of engineering excellence—is directly embedded as the vehicle OEM. That level of involvement delivers real capability, efficiency and long?term assurance for the UK Armed Forces. Establishing a UK business is essential to providing that through?life support.”

The announcement aligns with the International Armoured Vehicles conference and follows the UK MoD’s recent LMV Industry Day. It builds on a strong year of momentum for Team LionStrike, including the debut of GM Defense’s General Support Utility Platform (GSUP) at DSEI and a UK Ride & Drive event highlighting four proven COTS light and utility vehicles.

Team LionStrike—composed of GM Defense with NP Aerospace, BAE Systems, and multiple UK-based subject matter experts—aims to deliver a modern, scalable mobility solution for the British Army while supporting the Land Industrial Strategy. The team is building a sustainable UK supply chain, backed by GM’s global parts distribution network, the new UK hub, and the experience of NP Aerospace and BAE Systems in sustaining the UK Military.

“We are fully committed to the UK LMV programme and to investing in British industry and communities. GM Defense UK strengthens our ability to fully support Team LionStrike and deliver exactly what the British Army needs—now and for decades to come,” Watters added.

DroneShield Releases Q1 2026 Software Updates

January 21st, 2026

21 January 2026 – DroneShield, a global leader in counter-drone technology, today announced the release of its Q1 2026 software updates notably across the DroneSentry-C2, DroneSentry-C2 Enterprise, and RfPatrol-Plugin, alongside firmware updates for detection and disruption devices

The Q1 2026 release is designed to simplify operations, reduce cognitive load, and help operators make faster, more confident decisions when managing drone threats across military, public safety, and critical infrastructure environments.

A key focus of this update is improved system interoperability and sensor coordination of DroneShield’s DroneSentryecosystem. Expanded multi-sensor support and enhancements to SensorFusion improve detection accuracy and tracking reliability, including for mobile and on-the-move deployments. These changes help operators maintain clearer situational awareness in complex and cluttered airspace. 

The RfPatrol-Plugin received a significant upgrade, enabling drone detection and tracking data to be shared across TAK networks when connected to DroneShield systems. Operators can now view additional contextual information, including historic movement paths, supporting better coordination and faster response.

For organizations operating multiple protected sites, DroneSentry-C2 Enterprise now enables more active command-level control. In addition to monitoring, authorized operators can manually control disruptor engagement and camera pan-tilt-zoom functions at individual sites, improving visibility and reducing response times during time-critical incidents.

Disruption workflows have also been refined to support more controlled and proportional responses. Operators can target specific detected drones, while clearer, icon-based system status indicators provide immediate visibility into disruptor state, allowing operators to act quickly and decisively.

DroneSentry-C2 performance and usability have been further enhanced through updates to mapping and interface workflows. Improvements include reduced latency, smoother interaction, simplified controls, and clearer visual cues, all aimed at supporting faster interpretation and lower operator workload during live operations.

Together, these Q1 2026 updates reinforce DroneShield’s focus on operational clarity, reliability, and real-world usability – ensuring operators are equipped to respond with confidence as drone threats continue to evolve.

Streamlight Launches the PolyTac 1X at SHOT Show 2026

January 21st, 2026

Handheld Flashlight Offers Professional Tactical Performance, Polymer Durability and Multi-Fuel Flexibility

EAGLEVILLE, PA, January 21, 2026 – Streamlight®, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, announced the launch of the PolyTac® 1X, a compact, multi-fuel tactical flashlight engineered for professional performance across multiple environments. The new PolyTac 1X will debut at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas, where attendees can see it in person at Streamlight’s Booth #11468.

The PolyTac 1X has a rugged polymer body, designed with a rocky stipple grip texture for secure handling, delivering dependable illumination in conditions where metal lights are less desirable. Ideal for law enforcement, military, industrial professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyday carry (EDC) users alike, the light is powered by a Streamlight SL-B9® USB-rechargeable battery pack, a CR123A lithium battery, or an AA alkaline or lithium battery. Power, distance and run time vary based on battery type:

SL-B9 USB Battery Pack

  •        Output: 500 lumens on High; 40 lumens on Low
  •        Run Time: 1 hour on High; 8 hours on Low
  •        Distance: 268 meters on High; 63 meters on Low
  •        Intensity: 18,000 candela on High; 1,000 candela on Low
  •        Strobe Run Time: 1.75 hours

CR123A Lithium Battery

  •        Output: 350 lumens on High; 40 lumens on Low
  •        Run Time: 1.5 hours on High; 14 hours on Low
  •        Distance: 219 meters on High; 63 meters on Low
  •        Intensity: 12,000 candela on High; 1,000 candela on Low
  •        Strobe Run Time: 2.25 hours

 

AA Battery

  •        Output: 150 lumens on High; 40 lumens on Low
  •        Run Time: 5 hours on High; 14 hours on Low
  •        Distance: 141 meters on High; 63 meters on Low
  •        Intensity: 5,000 candela on High; 1,000 candela on Low
  •        Strobe Run Time: 7 hours

“The PolyTac 1X was driven by military demand for a compact, dependable light that offers flexibility without unnecessary complexity,” said Michael F. Dineen, Streamlight President. “By combining polymer durability, multi-fuel power options, and professional-grade performance, the PolyTac 1X delivers mission-ready reliability without compromise.”

The PolyTac 1X features a high-power white LED housed behind a BOROFLOAT® impact-resistant glass lens. A TEN-TAP® programmable tactical tail switch allows users to select from High/Strobe/Low, High-Only, or Low/High programs. A removable two-way pocket clipsupports multiple carry options.

Built for tough environments, the PolyTac 1X is IPX7-rated, waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes, impact resistant to 3 meters, and Trade Agreement Act (TAA) compliant, making it well-suited for military and professional use.

The PolyTac 1X measures 4.71 inches in length, with a 1.00-inch body diameter, 1.22-inch head diameter and 1.35 major diameter. It weighs between 2.93 and 3.20 ounces, depending on battery type. Available in Black or Yellow, the PolyTac 1X and PolyTac 1X USB have MSRPs of $80.00 and $89.00, respectively, and are backed by Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty. For more information, visit www.streamlight.com.

SHOT Show 26 – Belleville Minimalist Boots with FAT MAXX Midsole

January 21st, 2026

Belleville has something new for the LE and first responder professional. The ultralight Minimalist boot is offered in a 3″ (below ankle) and 6″ (above ankle) height with waterproof versions. The waterproof version are also blood borne pathogen proof.

3”

6”

Features:

  • 5 millimeter heel to toe drop
  • “Superior Light Engineered” responsive foam midsole is 30% lighter than standard EVA
  • Achilles cushion cradle for extra comfort and pressure mitigation
  • TPU stabilizer cup for added heel & ankle support

Men’s Full Sizes: 4 – 15, R & W

Half Sizes: 4.5 – 11.5, R & W

www.bellevilleboot.com

SHOT Show 26 – Agilite SFT Combat T-Shirt

January 21st, 2026

Agilite displayed their new SFT Combat T-Shirt. Combining soon in long and short sleeve versions.

Features:

  • Made with Endurocore™ No Melt, No Drip Performance Fabrics
  • Combat-Durable Construction
  • Moisture-Wicking and Quick-Dry Performance
  • Stretch for unrestricted movement and extreme comfort
  • Anti-Odor Technology – can be worn for days without smell
  • Raised Rear Collar protects from rifle slings and UV exposure
  • UV-Blocking Finish for all-day protection
  • Woven Micro Ripstop Shoulders for extra durability under gear
  • Highly Breathable, Cooling Fabric for comfort in extreme heat

Blue Force Gear Further Shatters Conventional Gear Design

January 21st, 2026

LAS VEGAS, NV. – Blue Force Gear, Inc., the world leader in load carriage equipment innovation, unveils at the 2026 NSSF SHOT Show a collection of products that continue to challenge currently set standards. From a revolutionary integrated battle belt climbing system to signature-reduction and life-saving gear, BFG continues to engineer solutions that professionals didn’t know they needed, until now. SHOT Show attendees can explore the following cutting-edge gear, as well as the rest of Blue Force Gear’s legendary product line, at BFG’s booth #20405 where specialists will demonstrate their unique capabilities.

Integrated Stealth Harness (ISH™): From Climber to Gunfighter in Seconds

The patented ISH Harness combines a gun belt, climbing harness, tourniquet, and travel restraint allinto one lightweight, certified system rated to hold over 3,000 pounds. Modular, removable leg loops deploy in seconds and feature windlass points for emergency tourniquet application or rappelling friction hitches. The ISH Harness features BFG’s signature MOLLEminus platform and anatomical curve design for uncompromising comfort on the ground or at height.The ISH Harness is UIAA and EU Certified as a Type C Mountaineering Harness.

UPL MR Pouch: Maximum Versatility, Minimal Footprint

This compact pouch securely organizes everything from 40mm grenades and CS Spray to tourniquets and spare mags in just 2″ of MOLLE space. Adjustable flaps accommodate items from 4″ to 7″ in height, while the integrated BLIP pull tab ensures quick access in any conditions. Built with ULTRACOMP laminate, the MR Pouch reduces weight by up to 60% without sacrificing durability.

MTKN!® Nano LE: Life-Saving Capacity in a Compact Package

Despite its streamlined design, the Nano LE matches the capacity of the Micro Trauma Kit NOW!, holding QuickClot Gauze, Mini Compression Dressing, Hypothermia Blanket, and more depending on the fill level chosen. Two integrated sidecar pouches secure NARCAN Nasal Spray and a tourniquet, while single-hand BLIP pull tab access ensures rapid and consistent deployment. The Nano LE mountshorizontally or vertically on MOLLE or pants belts for ultimate flexibility.

BNVD Pouch & Slipcover: Signature Management and Convenience

Born from GWOT lessons learned, BFG’s BNVD Slipcover addresses a critical operational need: signature reduction. The lightweight Slipcover masks the distinctive BNVD shape with a shaggy design built out of nylon spandex while also providing natural face-shading. The perfect companion to the Slipcover, the BNVD Pouch delivers padded protection with a Fastex Buckle closure and MOLLE-compatible Helium Whisper pouch attachment. Together, they provide seamless protection from arms room storage to deployment.

For more information about Blue Force Gear or any of their product offerings, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

About Blue Force Gear®

Blue Force Gear designs the best weapon slings and leads the lightweight load carriage equipment revolution with Ten-Speed multi-use pouches, MOLLEminus platforms, and the patented Helium Whisper attachment system. Their proprietaryULTRACOMP high-performance coated fabric laminate material, unrivaled innovation, and attention to detail set Blue Force Gear apart from others in the tactical equipment industry. Blue Force Gear is a Great Place to Work Certified Company. For more information, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

SHOT Show 26 – Colt Exhibits Drone Mounted 40mm Automatic Grenade Launcher

January 21st, 2026

Colt is displaying their Mk47, a 40mm Automatic Grenade Launcher which they acquired a few years ago from General Dynamics, mounted to the Survice Engineering TR150 which is a USMC program of record quad copter.

The MK47 is a lightweight 40mm automatic grenade launcher with an integrated fire control system, capable of functioning as a standard automatic grenade launcher or with programmable airburst capability.

Dimensions:

Gun Weight: 39.6 lbs (18 kg)

Length: 37″ (940 mm)

Length (barrel detached): 24.02″ (610 mm)

Width: 10.04″ (255 mm)

Height: 8.07″ (205 mm)

The TR150 is an electric system which boasts an amazing 150lbs payload and has hot swappable Lithium Ion batteries.

After initial flight tests to determine how the Mk47 flies on the drone, the team will work on a dedicated weapon mount, development of a ammo box and feed system, live fire tests and possible mission configuration of the weapon.