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EOTECH Partners with Walk the Talk America During Mental Health Awareness Month

May 13th, 2026

Plymouth, MI (May 2026) – May 2026 marks the 77th annual Mental Health Awareness Month, focusing on reducing stigma, providing education, and promoting community support. This year, EOTECH has partnered with Walk The Talk America (WTTA), a national nonprofit 501(c)(3) that works at the intersection of mental health and responsible firearm ownership to reduce negative outcomes with firearms.

“One of the biggest challenges in suicide prevention is reaching people in ways that feel trusted, respectful, and culturally relevant. That’s why this partnership matters. EOTECH understands the community they serve, and together we’re helping normalize conversations around mental health within the firearms community without judgment or politics.” Said Michael Sodini, Founder of WTTA. “We’ve always believed the firearms community can be part of the solution. Gun owners care deeply about protecting their families, friends, and communities, and that includes mental health. Partnerships like this help expand access to resources while reinforcing a culture of responsibility, awareness, and support.”

“EOTECH is a staunch supporter of the 2nd Amendment and active sponsor of several mental health awareness programs over the years” said Lisa Kemp, Director of Marketing. “The WTTA is an ideal partner because they bridge the gap between personal and public health and individual rights and responsibilities”

In addition to the monetary donation, EOTECH will include a specially designed flyer in each of their consumer shipments sold in the US. The flyer will provide information on mental health resources, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being alongside responsible firearm ownership. The flyer will direct users to WTTA’s resources, encouraging a proactive approach to mental health within the firearms community.

In the United States, we lose over 75 individuals to suicide by firearm every day. Yet most suicide prevention efforts struggle to reach everyday gun owners in ways that feel respectful, culturally informed, and practical. WTTA exists to close that gap. For more information on WTTA and the services, materials, and training they provide, please visit www.walkthetalkamerica.org.

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Nonprofit, Press Release | No Comments »

Canadian Armed Forces Selects Avon Protection MITR-M1 Half Mask

May 13th, 2026

13th May 2026, Melksham, UK: The Government of Canada has awarded Avon Protection a five-year contract for the MITR-M1 Half Mask, MITR-PF Compact Particulate Filter, and accessories. The contract provides a framework agreement under which the MITR-M1 Half Mask and MITR-PF can be ordered for the Canadian Armed Forces.

With this contract, Canada has become the first FVEY nation defence force to award a contract for the MITR-M1 Half Mask, ensuring its personnel are equipped with a lightweight, flexible respiratory solution for tactical low- to mid-level threat environments.

Designed for fast-evolving operational scenarios that are unsuited to single-use face masks or full-face respirators, the MITR-M1 can be carried in cargo pockets or gear pouches and donned in seconds. It gives the wearer protection against respiratory particulate contaminates such as explosive gunfire residue; as well as oil and non-oil based contaminates such as lead, asbestos, fentanyl and lubricant mist. These contaminates are commonly found in tactical environments, from crowd control operations to high-risk interventions, and are known to have a detrimental effect on the respiratory health of personnel.

CE and NIOSH-certified, MITR-M1 Half Mask integrates seamlessly with ballistic and bump helmets via a strap or clip system, as well as tactical systems including night vision goggles, eye and hearing protective devices. With a sleek flush-fitting curved profile, the wearer retains weapon sighting ability and maintains communications via voice amplification/projection units.

The MITR-M1 Half Mask has been deployed in a range of operational settings with customers identifying its use for respiratory protection against a wide range of particulate hazards including explosive gunfire residue, lead, asbestos, fentanyl and riot control agents both during training and live operations. Its versatile protection has made it a trusted choice for organisations facing a range of airborne hazards in dynamic and high-risk environments.

“The research is clear: long term exposure to airborne particulate hazards is a major contributing factor to the negative health effects being experienced by military operators in later life,” Steve Elwell, President, Avon Protection, said. “In selecting the MITR-M1 Half Mask, the Canadian Military is focused on protecting the health of its operators so they can do their jobs and get home safely.

“MITR-M1’s convenient and low-burden respiratory protection is redefining protection levels for this fast-evolving market, and we look forward to seeing this system enter service with Canada’s world-class defence force.”

Posted in CBRNE, Contracts, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Colt’s Manufacturing Company Awarded Five-Year Defense Logistics Agency Contract in Support of Critical Small Arms Components

May 13th, 2026

WEST HARTFORD, Conn. — Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC is proud to announce that it has been awarded Contract SPE7LX-26-D-0051 by the Defense Logistics Agency in support of NSN 1005-01-505-1035, Bolt, Breech.

The five-year, firm-fixed-price indefinite quantity contract carries a maximum award value of$17,589,566.00 and reinforces Colt’s continued commitment to supporting the U.S. Government, the Defense Logistics Agency, and the warfighter through the reliable delivery of high-quality, mission-critical small arms components.

As a long-standing partner to the U.S. Government and the defense industrial base, Colt remains focused on providing the technical expertise, manufacturing capability, and cross-functional execution required to support critical readiness and sustainment needs across the military supply chain.

This award further demonstrates Colt’s enduring role in supporting U.S. military readiness through the production and delivery of essential small arms components. Colt appreciates the continued confidence placed in its team by its U.S. Government customers and congratulates the internal Colt team members whose dedication, technical expertise, and coordinated efforts made this award possible.

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UF PRO Introduces Woodland Camouflage to Its Clothing Lineup

May 13th, 2026

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (12 May 2026)

UF PRO expands its clothing portfolio with the introduction of Woodland camouflage across several established products.

Few camouflage patterns carry the same legacy and recognition as the iconic Woodland pattern, also widely known as M81. Introduced in the early 1980s as the standard camouflage of the United States Armed Forces, the pattern quickly became one of the most recognisable military camouflage designs worldwide. Over the decades, Woodland evolved far beyond its original military role, finding its place across special operations units, law enforcement teams, training environments, and the broader tactical community.

Its characteristic four-colour composition, developed for temperate woodland terrain, became closely associated with an entire generation of military operations and tactical equipment. Even decades after its introduction, Woodland remains one of the most requested camouflage patterns among professional users and enthusiasts alike, valued both for its operational heritage and enduring field relevance.

The camouflage pattern is now available on the Striker XT Gen.2 Combat Shirt, a breathable and fast-drying combat shirt designed for demanding operational use, combining durable sleeve construction with a lightweight torso material for improved comfort under body armour and load-bearing equipment.

It is also available on the Hunter FZ Gen.3 Tactical Softshell Jacket, a lightweight, windproof, and water-repellent softshell jacket developed for changing weather conditions, offering mobility, breathability, and reliable protection during active use.

The Woodland addition further extends to the P-40 Gen.2 Tactical Shorts, lightweight tactical shorts designed for warm-weather operations and range use, combining comfort, freedom of movement, and the functional pocket configuration characteristic of the P-40 line, as well as the Striker Gen.3 Boonie Hat, a lightweight field hat engineered for hot-weather environments, providing sun protection, ventilation, and reliable comfort during prolonged use in the field.

The Striker X Gen.2 Combat Pants, available later this year, will further expand the Woodland offering. Developed for demanding operational environments, the combat pants feature durable materials, ergonomic construction, and an integrated knee protection configuration for extended field use.

The rollout focuses on extending proven and field-tested UF PRO systems into one of the most anticipated camouflage additions within the brand’s portfolio. Each product maintains the same materials, construction, and functionality already established across the existing lineup, including ergonomic fit systems, durable fabric constructions, and mission-focused features developed for demanding operational environments.

With the addition of Woodland camouflage, UF PRO continues to expand its clothing portfolio in response to long-standing demand from operators and tactical professionals worldwide.

Learn more: ufpro.com

Posted in Advertiser, Camo, Clothing, Press Release | No Comments »

Stronger, Smarter, Sharper: Incirlik Airmen Elevate Tactical Skills Through European EOD Exercise

May 13th, 2026

INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Türkiye (AFNS) —

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Airmen from the 39th Civil Engineer Squadron, Incirlik Air Base, Turkiye, participated in Operation Deterrent Viking II, hosted by 786th Civil Engineer Squadron, Ramstein Air Base, at Baumholder Military Training Area, Germany, May 3–8.

The exercise brought together EOD personnel from across the European theater for a multi-day training exercise focused on enhancing operational readiness and strengthening regional EOD response capabilities through realistic, scenario-based training. Events included unexploded ordnance identification and disposal, land navigation, casualty evacuation procedures and controlled explosive operations.

“EOD plays a critical role in keeping the 39th Air Base Wing and our NATO partners ready to fight through effectively supporting our daily operations, post-attack airfield recovery, aircraft emergencies, UXO response, and suspicious package handling,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. William Berner, 39th CES commander. “The team will bring back what they’ve learned and incorporate those lessons into an already rigorous EOD training program so the whole flight can benefit.”

Participants operated and lived in field conditions designed to mirror mission environments, requiring the application of technical expertise under pressure while reinforcing disciplined coordination and team-based execution.

“It’s critical to conduct exercises like this so we can replicate likely situations that personnel may not routinely encounter or practice at their home stations,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Alexander Um, 786th Civil Engineer Squadron EOD flight commander. “It gives EOD personnel the opportunity and freedom to hone their skills in a controlled environment.”

Operation Deterrent Viking II brought together more than 50 EOD personnel from across the globe, including Slovakia and Belgium. Throughout the exercise, participants executed mission-essential tasks in a dynamic environment while exchanging tactics, techniques, and procedures to improve collective effectiveness and interoperability.

“The most important part of the exercise, to me, was teamwork,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Tori Payne, 39th Civil Engineer Squadron EOD training noncommissioned officer in charge. “Debriefing our drills throughout the week allowed us to collaborate and refine our tactics, techniques, and procedures.”

The exercise reinforced the value of integrated multinational training in building cohesive, rapidly deployable forces capable of responding to evolving security challenges across the theater.

“I hope everyone left Operation Deterrent Viking II with a stronger sense of camaraderie, as well as more confidence in their skills,” Payne said. “This week pushed us to a higher level both physically and mentally, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”

Exercises like Operation Deterrent Viking II ensure 39 ABW EOD forces remain ready and postured to defend U.S. and allied interests across the European theater and globally.

SSgt Kadielle Shaw

39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, EOD, Guest Post | No Comments »

ARO Products Announces New ARO Wrap for Alien Gear RAPID FORCE Holsters

May 12th, 2026

Houston, TX — May 11, 2026 — ARO Products is expanding its line of holster-mounted gear solutions with the release of a new ARO Wrap™ designed for Alien Gear’s RAPID FORCE® Level 3 WML Holsters.

The new ARO Wrap™ gives users the ability to add PALS-compatible mounting space directly to their RAPID FORCE® holster setup, creating more options for carrying essential gear without changing their primary holster platform. Built for duty, training, and range use, the ARO Wrap allows users to mount MOLLE-compatible accessories, pouches, and other supported gear where they need it most.

“Many professionals and serious users already trust the Alien Gear RAPID FORCE platform,” said Jace Foulk, owner of ARO Products. “This new ARO Wrap gives them more flexibility by adding mounting capability directly to the holster, while keeping their existing draw stroke, retention system, and overall setup intact.”

Unlike traditional accessory mounting solutions that limit placement options, the ARO Wrap™ is designed to provide mounting capability around the holster body, allowing users to configure their setup based on mission, training, or personal preference.

The ARO Wrap™ is especially well-suited for users who want to carry items such as tourniquets, chem lights, small tools, or other compact duty and range essentials. By adding PALS webbing to the holster, the ARO Wrap gives end users a practical way to expand their loadout without adding bulk to their beltline or replacing existing equipment.

The ARO Wrap™ for Alien Gear RAPID FORCE® Level 3 WML holsters is available now at aroproducts.com.

Posted in Holsters, Press Release | No Comments »

Elbit America Secures $212 Million Delivery Order Under Multi-Year Contract with the US Army

May 12th, 2026

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – May 12, 2026 – Elbit Systems of America (Elbit America) received a delivery order valued at $212 million to be the sole producer of the Enhanced Night Vision Goggle – Binocular (ENVG-B) systems for the United States Army. The Army has historically split production for ENVG-B systems among multiple vendors, however Elbit America was the only prime supplier selected for this delivery order.?

Elbit America’s ENVG-B system provides overmatch capability to the soldier with a platform that integrates head-up situational awareness and unmatched capabilities to own the networked battlefield. The ENVG-B’s ability to wirelessly connect to a soldier’s rifle mounted thermal weapon sight allows for rapid target acquisition, while augmented reality, and the Nett Warrior interface provide lethal capability to engage close-in and far out. The ENVG-B is the sole fused augmented reality system actively deployed.

When a soldier puts on an Elbit America ENVG?B, they’re not just seeing in the dark, they’re gaining access to a fused picture of the battlefield, which translates directly into improved survivability and mission success. The ENVG-B includes Gen 3 enhanced performance real-time white phosphor image intensifier tubes, which provide unrivaled image clarity along with a much greater detection range coupled with a thermal sensor. All this sophistication and capability is packed into a lightweight goggle, powered by a smart battery pack.

Erik Fox, Senior Vice President of Warfighter Systems at Elbit America, said, “Our ENVG-B systems offer information at the edge, as they integrate advanced low?light performance, thermal imaging, and augmented reality into a single platform, enabling soldiers to detect threats faster, identify targets sooner, and maneuver with greater confidence in all weather, lighting, and battlefield conditions.”

Elbit America has delivered more than 30,000 advanced night vision binocular systems since 2020 through the U.S. Army’s ENVG?B program and the U.S. Marine Corps’ Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggle program. The company continues to shape the future of night operations as a recognized leader in imaging, sensor fusion, and soldier-centered technology development.

MORE: www.elbitamerica.com/night-vision

Posted in Army, Contracts, Press Release | No Comments »

Spartan Precision Equipment Introduces the Kestros Sling System: Redefining Mobility and Precision in the Field

May 12th, 2026

East Sussex, UK — Spartan Precision Equipment proudly announces the launch of the all-new Kestros Sling System, an innovative carry solution engineered to seamlessly bridge the gap between stalking and taking the shot. Designed for hunters and shooters who demand efficiency, speed, and reliability, the Kestros Sling System eliminates the friction of gear management by keeping both rifle and bipod stowed, secure, and instantly deployable when it matters most.

True to Spartan Precision Equipment’s commitment to working with the best partners in the world, the Kestros Sling System represents a collaboration of elite design and manufacturing expertise. The system was conceived by a renowned Finnish sniper, bringing real-world operational insight into how a rifle should be carried in demanding environments. Designed to hold your rifle comfortably and securely, the Kestros enables complete hands-free movement without fear of the rifle slipping from your shoulder—no matter the terrain or conditions. The system is proudly manufactured in Finland, reflecting the highest standards of precision engineering and durability.

At the core of the Kestros system is a simple but powerful concept: your bipod should be as accessible as your rifle. Unlike traditional slings that focus solely on carrying a firearm, the Kestros manages the entire shooting system. Built for the mobile hunter, it ensures that your bipod is never buried in a pack or out of reach. Instead, it remains securely attached and ready, allowing for a faster, smoother transition from movement to shot execution.

The Kestros Sling System features three adaptive carry configurations that respond to terrain, pace, and readiness in real time. In its traditional configuration, the sling functions as a comfortable over-the-shoulder carry system, with padding and webbing that distribute weight evenly to reduce fatigue during long stalks. When configured in harness mode, the system secures the rifle centrally across the hunter’s back or chest, preventing unwanted movement and improving balance in challenging terrain. In safety mode, the sling loops under a single shoulder, creating a stable triangular anchor point across the chest that enhances control and readiness in dynamic environments. To see a video Click Here.

Purpose-built to integrate with Spartan’s renowned bipod technology, the Kestros Sling System is paired perfectly with the Javelin Pro Hunt Tac bipod. Constructed from ultralight carbon fiber and engineered to withstand calibers up to .300 RUM, the Pro Hunt Tac delivers unmatched stability in the field. The Kestros complements this performance by ensuring the bipod is always accessible and ready for immediate deployment.

A key component of the system is the Kestros Clip, manufactured from industrial-grade PA12 Nylon and specifically designed and molded for the Javelin Pro Hunt Tac bipod. This precision fit ensures a secure, rattle-free dock that keeps the bipod firmly in place without the risk of accidental release. While the clip may accommodate similar diameter bipods, it is optimized for the Pro Hunt Tac’s leg profile to deliver maximum retention and silence in the field.

The system is also fully compatible with Spartan’s MagnaSwitch™ technology, allowing users to transition from chest carry to rifle-mounted deployment in one fluid motion. With no latches, buttons, or unnecessary movement, the result is a faster, more intuitive shooting experience. Despite its advanced functionality, the combined weight of the Kestros Sling and Pro Hunt Tac bipod remains lighter than many traditional leather slings, while delivering the added benefit of a complete precision shooting platform.

With the introduction of the Kestros Sling System, Spartan Precision Equipment challenges hunters to rethink how they carry and deploy their gear. This is more than a sling—it is a fully integrated system designed to enhance mobility, efficiency, and shot readiness in the most demanding environments.

The Kestros Sling is available at a suggested retail price of $80.00, with the Kestros Clip offered separately for $25.00. For those seeking the complete system, the sling and clip are available together as a bundled package for $100.00. For more information on the Kestros Sling system,

javelinbipod.com/products/kestros-sling

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