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EW 25.2: AFSOC Heightens Warfighting Readiness During Landmark DLE Series

August 30th, 2025

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —

Air Force Special Operations Command tested its warfighting readiness during Emerald Warrior 25.2, the command’s premier operational exercise held across Arizona and California from July 21 – Aug. 11, 2025.

EW 25.2 was part of the first-in-a-generation Department Level Exercise series, incorporating more than 12,000 personnel and integrating various forces into joint, coalition, and multinational training. The DLE series advanced the way operations were achieved in a contested, dynamic environment to build capabilities and make a stronger, more lethal deterrent force.

“Emerald Warrior’s integration into the DLE series reinforced our critical role in preparing our forces for the scope and intensity of future operations,” said Lt. Gen. Michael Conley, AFSOC commander. “This iteration provided the opportunity to test our capabilities within a larger strategic context. The training we completed during those three weeks demonstrated the exceptional full-spectrum readiness of our Air Commandos.”

Emerald Warrior provides the venue for realistic joint, combined special operations training to prepare U.S. Special Operations Command forces, conventional enablers, partner forces, and interagency elements to respond to various threats across the spectrum of conflict.

The exercise incorporated multi-domain training designed to give Air Commandos the opportunity to find innovative solutions to tactical problems and experiment with emerging capabilities.

“Our goal is to match the speed and scale of large, real-world operations where command and the areas of operation are distributed,” said Conley. “Creating these dilemmas is how our teams can best learn to adapt so they can excel in future combat environments and help set conditions for the joint force to win.”

Air Commandos completed a wide range of training scenarios that validated their ability to integrate aviation, special tactics, medical and mission sustainment functions. A key objective was executing Agile Combat Employment (ACE) to demonstrate a flexible aerial advantage.

“ACE has become a requisite ability to our operations and readiness,” said Brig. Gen. Clay Freeman, AFSOC director of operations. “We must be prepared to deploy rapidly and operate from austere environments with potentially limited resources. A contested venue does not change the need to generate airpower at any place, any time, anywhere.”

International collaboration was a key element of EW 25.2. The integration of partners in the Royal Air Force was highlighted by the RAF A400M Atlas facilitating transport and military free fall training for Special Tactics teams. Additionally, Czech Republic Special Operations Forces worked alongside special operations medical elements and surgical teams, honing collaborative abilities in humanitarian and disaster relief scenarios.

“Emerald Warrior strengthens our international relationships and interoperability”, said Freeman. “AFSOC is committed to fostering combined training opportunities with partners where we integrate our diverse skillsets and build shared capabilities to strengthen our collective security. For this iteration, we were grateful to grow our collective readiness with our RAF and Czech Republic partners.”

Along with international allies, Air Commandos trained with units from the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Army, among other interagency partners. This collaboration strengthened AFSOC’s capacity to deliver decisive effects in alignment with future force employment requirements.

EW 25.2 solidified AFSOC’s warfighting functions and underscored its commitment to adapting to succeed in today’s dynamic strategic environment.

Air Force Special Operations Command

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, SOF | Comments Off on EW 25.2: AFSOC Heightens Warfighting Readiness During Landmark DLE Series

Saab Reveals New Counter-UAS Missile Nimbrix

August 29th, 2025

Saab has revealed Nimbrix, its first ever dedicated Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) missile. The missile is developed to counter the increasing threat from small drones on the battlefield.

The fire-and-forget missile is being rapidly developed at Saab with the aim to deliver a system featuring a target seeker, a hard-kill warhead, and a small footprint – all at a low cost. The range will be up to 5 km with an active seeker to track its target. Its warhead can effectively engage and defeat UAS swarms using an air-burst mode.

“Nimbrix is our answer to the unmanned aerial threats which have escalated in the last few years. It is cost-effective which is critical given the proliferation of UASs on the battlefield. Nimbrix benefits from our long experience of air defence, together with an agile way of responding to new needs,” says Stefan Öberg, head of Saab’s business unit Missile Systems.

The missile operates as a ground-based system and can be operated independently or as part of a larger air defence system. With flexible mounting options to fit different customer requirements, Nimbrix can be mounted on various vehicles or in fixed configurations. The cost-effective nature of the missile contributes to maximising deployed numbers to generate sufficient air defence coverage.

Customer discussions are ongoing and Saab aims for first deliveries in 2026. Nimbrix will be showcased during DSEI in London, UK from 9-12 September 2025, at the Saab stand, N9-105.

Posted in International, Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on Saab Reveals New Counter-UAS Missile Nimbrix

Bushmaster – Bravo Zulu Pistol Series

August 29th, 2025

Building on the heritage and legacy of the Bushmaster® family of firearms, Bushmaster® is excited to announce the release of the new Bushmaster® Bravo Zulu™ pistol series, chambered in .300 Blackout and 5.56 NATO/.223 REM.

The Bushmaster® Bravo Zulu™ Pistol is inspired by the design, quality and build profile of our original Bravo Zulu™ Line, The Bushmaster® Bravo Zulu™ Pistol boasts several impressive features, including a free float rail, Bushmaster® DM2S® 2-stage trigger, Magpul® furniture, and a Snake Charmer®II muzzle brake that reduces felt recoil.

The Bushmaster® Bravo Zulu™ Pistol is chambered in 5.56 NATO/.223 REM or .300 Blackout, with a 11.5″ barrel made from 4150 CMV material and finished with a salt bath nitride coating.

The Bushmaster® 300 Blackout Bravo Zulu™ features a twist rate of 1:7, a barrel thread pitch of 5/8” x 24, and features a pistol length gas system. The Bushmaster® 5.56 NATO/.223 REM Bravo Zulu™ Pistol features a twist rate of 1:7, a barrel thread pitch of 1/2” x 28, and features a carbine length gas system. The Bushmaster® Bravo Zulu™ 300 Blackout Pistol weighs in at 6.1 lbs without a magazine and has an overall length of 28.5” – 31.25”. The Bushmaster® 5.56 NATO/.223 REM Pistol weighs in at 5.89 lbs without a magazine and has an overall length of 28.5” – 31.25”.

Built with a 7075 forged XM15®-E2S lower receiver, and a 7075 forged A4 flat top upper receiver, the Bravo Zulu™ is built to last. The salt bath nitride bolt carrier group and MPI tested bolt ensure reliable performance, while the 10” BFI® M-LOK handguard, Magpul® MOE® grip, and Magpul® MOE® enhanced trigger guard provide comfort and customization options. The pistols also come equipped with the SB Tactical SBA5 Pistol Brace with 5 positions of adjustability.

The DM2S® 2-Stage trigger and Snake Charmer®II muzzle brake add to the pistols exceptional performance, and both come with a Magpul® PMAG® 30 GEN M2 MOE® magazine. Proudly made in the U.S.A., the Bravo Zulu™ is a pistol that truly lives up to its name.

This firearm is classified as a pistol and not a short barreled rifle (NFA regulated items require ATF approval and a tax stamp).

Bravo Zulu™ Pistol Series is available in two calibers:

Bravo Zulu™ 5.56 NATO / .223 Remington

Bravo Zulu™ .300 Blackout

For more information, including product specifications and purchasing options, visit www.bushmaster.com.

Posted in Black Rifle, Press Release | Comments Off on Bushmaster – Bravo Zulu Pistol Series

MCB Quantico Live Fire of Scorpion Light Mobile Mortar System

August 29th, 2025

Last week, Global Military Products and Polaris Government and Defense were invited to participate in a live-fire demonstration on Marine Corps Base Quantico in conjunction with the Marine Gunners Symposium.

On one of Quantico’s 43 live ranges, a group of Marine gunners witnessed the Scorpion Light mobile mortar system in action, demonstrating the shoot and scoot capabilities of the system. Mounted on the Polaris MRZR Alpha 6×6, the fully integrated platform provides mobility, lethality, operator safety and air transportability. The rapid-fire control system is designed to elevate operational efficiency, while the expanded payload of the MRZR Alpha 6×6 variant allows for 48 mortars to also be transported.

More on the Scorpion Light

The Scorpion Light – known internationally as the Alakran – mobile mortar system has been combat proven across countries in Europe and the Middle East, showing its reliability and effectiveness in diverse and hostile environments. Built with durable materials and rugged construction to withstand extreme temperatures, dust, and harsh conditions, its robust design and resilient technologies make it a durable weapon that can withstand the rigors of combat and remain effective. The mobile mortar system can fire 8 rounds and relocate in under 2 minutes. The dual system can integrate 120mm and 81mm smoothbore or rifled mortars in a very simple operation, providing high firepower and making it a powerful tool for neutralizing enemy targets.

More on the MRZR Alpha 6×6

The MRZR Alpha 6×6 is a two-seat platform with a 65 percent larger cargo bed optimized for heavier systems and payloads, like the Scorpion Light. The vehicle has 3,600 lbs (about 1632.93 kg) of payload available, with 3,000 lbs (about 1360.78 kg) of that available in the extended cargo bed. The third axle and short wheelbase also have a positive impact on mobility, decreasing the contact pressure per tire for enhanced performance in soft soil, mud and bogs. The MRZR Alpha 6×6 maintains top speed and air transportability and has more than 90% parts commonality with the base MRZR Alpha. Expeditionary warfighters operating worldwide in austere environments require modular platforms that can adjust to multiple environments and modes of transport – tactical air, fixed wing plane and ship – now more than ever.

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Mobility, USMC, weapons | 2 Comments »

Galvion Celebrates Significant Head System Sales with Over 1.25 Million Helmets Ordered by NATO and Allied Customers

August 29th, 2025

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, is celebrating the success of its Batlskin® head systems across NATO and allied nations with over 1.25 million helmets having been ordered in the last 10 years. Within that number, to date, over 150,000 Caiman® helmets have been shipped under the long-term NATO framework contract, establishing its flagship Caiman® helmet as the head system of choice for key European NATO members, and reinforcing Galvion’s position as a trusted partner in the delivery of modern, scalable protective headgear. This announcement comes in advance MSPO taking place in Poland, 2-5 September (booth 1-D02) and DSEI taking place in London, 9-12 September (booth N2-420).

This achievement reflects ongoing global demand for Galvion’s integrated helmet systems and adds to a series of contract successes. Notable recent awards include the U.S. Marine Corps IntegratedHelmet System (IHS) contract, built on Galvion’s Hellbender™ platform, follow-on orders for the Caiman helmet under Canada’s DICE program, and a federal agency contract for the Hellbender FE variant. As part of Galvion’s long-term NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) framework agreement, over 150,000 Caiman helmets have been shipped to Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Poland. Galvion continues to fulfill orders under this framework, with additional orders anticipated before the end of the year. The company also supports ongoing programs for military and security forces in the United Kingdom, Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany, and multiple Middle Eastern countries, among others. Orders from new, currently undisclosed customers are also underway.

To support both immediate delivery and long-term sustainment, Galvion’s European production hub in Gda?sk, Poland has been fully operational since April 2025. The facility serves as a key node in Galvion’s regional strategy, delivering new head systems and supporting ongoing servicing, upgrades, and lifecycle sustainment for fielded equipment across the region. North American production remains centered at Galvion’s Vermont manufacturing facility, ensuring continued responsiveness to domestic program requirements.

All of Galvion’s head systems are engineered for seamless integration with modern mission equipment, including night vision devices, communications headsets, and wearable power and data solutions. Earlier this year, Galvion introduced Cortex™, a new category of modular, helmet-mounted computing and data networking systems that will offer advanced capability upgrades for both the Caiman and Hellbender platforms. The launch of Cortex reflects Galvion’s commitment to delivering future-ready technologies that evolve alongside user needs and operational environments.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion said: “This milestone reflects the depth of trust that global defence and security customers have placed in our Batlskin head systems and our team. With over 1.25 million helmets ordered in the past decade alone, significant recent wins and continuing key programs, we are incredibly excited about the future. Our success is a testament to focused design approach, disciplined execution, and collaborative relationships. It reinforces Galvion’s position as a leader in head systems and speaks to the reliability, agility, and future-forward vision we bring to every program.” He added: “With regional production now in place and our platforms evolving through technologies like Cortex, we’re well positioned to continue delivering advanced, scalable solutions that meet both today’s operational demands and tomorrow’s modernization goals.”

Posted in Helmets, Press Release | Comments Off on Galvion Celebrates Significant Head System Sales with Over 1.25 Million Helmets Ordered by NATO and Allied Customers

FirstSpear Friday Focus: Woodland Camo Speartip Trucker Hat

August 29th, 2025

The WOODLAND CAMO SPEARTIP TRUCKER HAT is a no-nonsense, range-ready piece of kit designed with function and form in mind. Built on a structured six-panel chassis, it offers a mid-profile fit that works well with a variety of head shapes and helmet hair situations.

The mesh back keeps airflow steady, making it a solid choice for extended wear in hot or humid environments. Whether you’re running drills or just moving between locations, the breathable design helps regulate heat without sacrificing durability.

The Permacurv visor holds its shape under pressure, giving you a consistent brim curve that shields glare without flopping or warping. With a snapback closure, it’s easy to adjust on the fly—even one-handed. The offset Icon Speartip PVC patch adds a subtle nod to your tribe without screaming for attention, keeping the profile professional and purpose-built.

The woodland camo pattern gives it a classic, field-forward look that blends into both operational and everyday settings. Whether you’re spotting for a shooter or grabbing chow, this lid holds its own without getting in the way. The mid-profile structure also fits comfortably under over-the-ear hearing protection, making it ideal for time on the range. Rugged where it counts, breathable where it matters, and always mission-ready.

To request an estimate click image above or visit First-Spear.com/Request-For-Estimate. FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting edge-tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train. For more information visit First-Spear.

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Army’s New Cyber Advisor Sets Tone for Priorities

August 29th, 2025

WASHINGTON — Bringing innovative technologies to Soldiers and incorporating next generation software and capabilities will be among the priorities of the Army’s new top cyber strategist.

Brandon Pugh outlined his duties as the Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of the Army during a discussion in Augusta, Georgia, Thursday.

Pugh, a Rutgers Law School graduate, not only boasts the cybersecurity experience and education to advise service leaders but Pugh, an officer in the Army reserve, can relate to the Soldiers his leadership will influence, having served as a paratrooper, international law officer and now as a national security law professor while in uniform.

Pugh was a non-resident fellow at the U.S. Military Academy and served as legislative counsel at the New Jersey General Assembly Minority Office, managing policy and legislation related to cybersecurity.

Pugh became the third person to be named PCA after President Donald Trump nominated him June 16, becoming the first political appointee to the role.

Pugh said that bolstering the Army’s cyber capabilities and cybersecurity aligns with the service’s continuous transformation priorities, where the service will leverage the latest technologies to keep pace with adversaries.

“I truly believe in the direction the Army is going,” Pugh said. “The Army’s continuous transformation is really a unique window in transforming the Army overall to the current battlefield, as well as where the future one is. And I think cyber is a key part of that.”

Pugh said his goals for Army cyber include pushing AI capabilities to the warfighter and fulfilling the president’s priority of defending the homeland. He said national defense can be achieved by bolstering the service’s cyber offensive and defensive capabilities.

“Transformation is really delivering capabilities to the warfighter in a quick speed. That’s just not a buzzword. How do I interpret that for our office?” he said. “It’s really looking at the nexus of AI and cyber. ARCYBER is doing a great job under [ … Army Cyber Command Science Advisor and Chief Analytics Officer Mark A. “Al” Mollenkopf’s] leadership, but I think that’s the direction we need to go in.”

Pugh will lead his office from the Pentagon and collaborate with Leonel Garciga, the Army’s Chief Information Officer, and other senior leaders. Pugh’s council comes at a critical time as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth identified cyber among the Army’s top areas to invest.

This fall, Army Cyber Command, based at Fort Gordon, Georgia, will form the first of its three Theater Information Advantage Detachments, which will focus on U.S. adversaries in the realm of cyber information. Pugh visited Fort Gordon, Georgia, in late July including meeting with Army cyber capability developers at the 11th Cyber Battalion.

Pugh said that further incorporating the National Guard and his fellow reservists into ARCYBER and broader cyber efforts will be among his priorities. He said that many members of the guard and Army Reserve boast skills in the areas of cyber and technology that could benefit the Army’s cyber capabilities.

The Army established its Cyber Direct Commissioning Program, or CDCP, for those who possess key experience in the cyber field or education to be appointed to the Army’s Cyber Corps in the ranks of lieutenant to colonel.

“I see this as a total Army. We need our active-duty Soldiers, but we also need our Reservists and our Guardsmen, and I’ll add civilians on top of that,” Pugh said. “I think we see awesome examples of the Guard and Reserve being utilized.”

Pugh added that Guardsmen work in local communities where they can contribute to critical infrastructure defense.

“Some of these Reserve and Guardsmen have incredible skill sets. They’re in C-suite (top cyber strategy) positions sometimes in their civilian world [positions]. To make sure we’re leveraging them, I think is key.”

By Joe Lacdan Army News Service

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Canadian Army Selects Bohemia Interactive Simulations to Deliver Next-Generation Digital Training

August 28th, 2025

Immersive virtual environments enable complex mission planning and training

Bohemia Interactive Simulations (BISim), a wholly owned subsidiary of BAE Systems, Inc., has been awarded a five-year enterprise license contract to deliver the Digital Virtual Trainer (DVT) for the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND), with three additional option years of maintenance support. The DVT program will provide immersive, flexible, and highly scalable synthetic training to support mission readiness across the Canadian Army.

Built around BISim’s ecosystem of simulation products, the DVT solution empowers Canadian Army personnel to plan, rehearse, execute, and review complex missions in immersive virtual environments across the globe through realistic first-person training experiences and large-scale collective training exercises.

“We’re proud to support the Canadian Army’s vision for modern, flexible training with a proven, battle-tested virtual platform,” said Pete Morrison, chief product officer at BISim. “Whether rehearsing for rural maneuvers or complex urban operations, the Canadian Army can train with confidence on highly authentic virtual terrains.”

At the heart of the DVT solution is Virtual Battlespace 4 (VBS4), paired with the Blue IG image generator to deliver immersive visual realism and seamless integration with legacy systems. The DVT solution is designed for interoperability and ease of use with advanced tools for exercise control, after-action review (AAR), and more.

To maximize flexibility and give the Canadian Army the ability to replicate a global range of training scenarios with remarkable fidelity, DVT also includes TerraTools Platinum. BISim’s advanced terrain generation software enables the rapid creation of geo-specific, mission-tailored environments using real-world Geographic Information System data.

The DVT contract award follows a competitive evaluation process and reflects BISim’s strong track record of delivering mission-critical simulation solutions to allied defense forces worldwide.

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, Training | 2 Comments »