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Elevate Your Precision: OKSI’s Advanced EO/IR Seekers and Terminal Guidance

April 2nd, 2025

At OKSI, we’ve spent decades pushing the boundaries of EO/IR sensing, and we’re proud to introduce our next-generation seekers and terminal guidance software—engineered to surpass any solution on the market. Our proven track record in advanced imaging and autonomous targeting sets the stage for unmatched performance and reliability in modern battlefields with harsh Electronic Warfare (EW) environments.

Why Choose OKSI?

Hardware Your Way

From Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) to fully custom options, our low-cost modular and passive EO/IR seekers let you integrate powerful, precision-guidance capabilities without reinventing your entire platform.

Seamless Platform Integration

Our containerized terminal guidance software modules are platform-agnostic, running flawlessly on NVIDIA, Qualcomm Snapdragon, or even FPGA hardware. Providing precision guidance in both air and ground domains.

No GPS? No Problem

Our seekers excel in EW environments by eliminating reliance on GPS—giving you robust performance when it matters most.

Passive, Laser-Free Operation

By removing the need for laser teams or designators, we reduce complexity, risk, and costs.

Fire-and-Forget Capability

Launch once (with or without a lock) and let our seekers’ advanced image-based ATR, and visual navigation algorithms do the rest.

Sophisticated Target Tracking

Whether static or dynamic, our proprietary pipelines track targets with pinpoint accuracy, enabling critical LOAL (Lock-On-After-Launch) functionality and maximum effectiveness with vulnerability aimpoint exploitation.

Midcourse Mastery

Our visual-based navigation is the ideal solution for long range strike—enabling absolute positional awareness during midcourse and terminal phase for a variety of engagement profiles.

Applications

Ideal for Long-Range Strike / SOPGM, Loitering and Guided Munitions, C-UAS, Air-Launched Effects, UAS and FPV, Rockets, Mortars, and UAS Air-Dropped Munitions—our seekers seamlessly integrate into existing and next-gen platforms alike.

Choose OKSI to gain a competitive edge. Let us empower your operations with decades of proven expertise and cutting-edge EO/IR guidance solutions—because when every second counts, you need a partner who delivers unwavering accuracy and reliability. This isn’t marketing fluff and generated graphics for future aspirations. OKSI is providing real results to complex scenarios today.

Get in touch to learn how our EO/IR seekers can redefine your mission success. Contact solutions@oksi.ai

Posted in Advertiser, AI / ML, Guest Post, UAS | No Comments »

Marine Corps Launches Attack Drone Team

April 2nd, 2025

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. —

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. – On Jan. 3, 2025, the Commanding Generals of Training Command, Maj. Gen. Anthony M. Henderson, and the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory, Brig. Gen. Simon M. Doran, established the Marine Corps Attack Drone Team in response to the rapid proliferation of armed first-person view drone technology and tactics.

A Neros Archer first-person view drone sits on a case during a demonstration range at Weapons Training Battalion on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, March 7, 2025. The Marine Corps Attack Drone Team used the Neros Archer FPV drone to engage targets on the range to showcase the drone’s capabilities on the battlefield. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joshua Barker)

The creation of MCADT comes in response to the rapid proliferation of armed first-person view drone technology and tactics observed in modern conflicts, particularly in Eastern Europe. As emerging threats continue to evolve, the Marine Corps is prioritizing the integration of FPV drone capabilities to enhance lethality and operational effectiveness across the Fleet Marine Force.

“MCADT is committed to rapidly integrating armed first-person view drones into the FMF, enhancing small-unit lethality and providing organic capabilities that warfighters currently lack” said Maj. Alejandro Tavizon, headquarters company commander at Weapons Training Battalion and officer in charge of MCADT. “By leveraging emerging technologies and refining drone employment tactics, we are ensuring that Marines remain agile, adaptive, and lethal in the modern battlespace.”

MCADT will be based at WTBn-Quantico under Training Command, fostering close collaboration with the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory. This placement builds on 124 years of expertise from the Marine Corps Shooting Team (MCST), which has long facilitated the Corps’ culture of marksmanship and paved the way for the development of this program. The Shooting Team’s legacy in precision weapons and the capabilities of the WTBn-Quantico Precision Weapons Section further enhance MCADT’s mission.

The team’s mission is to integrate lessons from modern combat; represent the Marine Corps in inter-Service, national, and international competitions; and, through iterative training and competition, provide input to the development of cutting-edge FPV drone capabilities to enhance warfighting effectiveness. MCADT will:

– Develop and refine armed FPV drone training for Marines across the Total Force.
– Inform service-level requirements to ensure the rapid fielding of cutting-edge FPV technologies.
– Enhance individual and unit lethality through hands-on instruction during competitive training events.

“Today’s battlefield is changing rapidly, and we must adapt just as quickly. The Marine Corps Attack Drone Team will ensure that our warfighters remain at the forefront of precision drone employment, providing a critical advantage in future conflicts.” Maj. Alejandro Tavizon, Weapons Training Battalion Headquarters Company commander and officer in charge of MCADT

MCADT will serve as the Marine Corps’ subject matter experts on FPV drone employment and represent the Corps in inter-service, national, and international competitions. The first of these will be the U.S. National Drone Association’s Military Drone Crucible Championship, held from June 30 to July 3, 2025, in Florida. Competing against units like the 75th Ranger Regiment, MCADT will execute tactical missions using FPVs and small UAS in realistic scenarios designed to simulate modern combat. The competition will feature tactical inserts and full mission profiles designed to implement the ‘hunter-killer method’ using both small, unmanned aircraft systems and FPVs, incorporating a variety of flight control options, such as radio frequency, fiber-optic, and artificial intelligent-enabled, which will enhance operational effectiveness.

Following the competition, MCADT will share insights to refine tactics and further improve operational effectiveness. In April 2026, MCADT will host a final championship and selection event at Marine Corps Base Quantico, coinciding with the Marine Corps Marksmanship Competition Championships. Top drone operators will be selected to augment MCADT for future competitions.

MCADT’s impact extends beyond competition. FPV drones offer squad-level lethality up to 20 kilometers for under $5,000, compared to more expensive weapons systems with less capability. This provides a cost-effective and scalable solution for modern combat.

MCADT is already employing several USMC program of record and non-program of record small UAS and FPV controlled drones, through assistance from MCWL and their dedication to the partnership to MCADT. Each of these drones offers distinct capabilities, and the MCADT will use them, as well as additional drones to be received in the coming weeks, to effectively complete their missions.

The Competition-in-Arms Program will expand to incorporate drone competitions within the existing Marine Corps Marksmanship Competition series. The MCADT will run competitions throughout FY26 in conjunction with the MCST. These events will provide opportunities to continuously refine and enhance the skills needed to effectively operate these new precision weapons, ultimately increasing the lethality of Marines and Marine units across the FMF.

“Right now, our focus is on rapidly building proficiency by sending Marines to a variety of training courses and increasing hands-on familiarization,” said Tavizon. “Our goal is to ensure they can not only operate these systems effectively but also integrate them seamlessly into a team. This means mastering primary platforms, having redundancy with backup systems, and getting the necessary repetitions to employ payloads with precision under real-world conditions.”

The establishment of MCADT marks a significant advancement in modernizing Marine Corps capabilities, equipping Marines with cutting-edge drone technology that enhances lethality at extended ranges, all at a fraction of the cost of current long-range weapon systems. Through continuous training, competitions, and collaboration, MCADT is already shaping – and will continue to shape – how the Corps locates, closes with, and destroys our nation’s adversaries.

By Cpl Joshua Barker | Marine Corps Training and Education Command

Posted in Guest Post, UAS, USMC | No Comments »

BIRD Aerosystems Obtains STC Certification for the Installation of Its SPREOS DIRCM on AIRBUS A319

April 1st, 2025

The Certification Enables Airbus A319 Aircraft Equipped with BIRD’s Airborne Missile Protection System (AMPS) featuring the SPREOS DIRCM to Operate Globally

31 March 2025 – BIRD Aerosystems, a global leader in defense and airborne protection technology, announces that it has successfully obtained Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for the installation of its Airborne Missile Protection System (AMPS)incorporating the SPREOS DIRCM on Head-of-Stateaircraft. This certification enables Airbus A319 aircraft, already equipped with BIRD’s system, to operate worldwide with full regulatory compliance.

The Israeli Civil Aviation Authority (CAAI) oversaw and validated the entire installation process, including system integration, flight testing, and a successful demonstration proving the system’s safety. BIRD Aerosystems demonstrated exceptional expertise in manufacturing, system design, and installation, meeting all regulatory requirements and passing rigorous evaluations with success.

With this certification, Airbus A319 aircraft equipped with BIRD’s advanced SPREOS DIRCM system are now authorized for unrestricted operation worldwide. This milestone reinforces BIRD Aerosystems’ position as a trusted provider of airborne self-protection solutions for both military and narrow & wide-body commercial aircraft.

Ronen Factor, Co-Chief Executive Officer of BIRD Aerosystems, stated:
“This STC is a significant achievement for BIRD Aerosystems, further validating the safety and effectiveness of our advanced airborne missile protection solutions. The successful integration and approval process highlights our technical expertise and commitment to delivering innovative defense technologies that protect aircraft in high-threat environments. With this certification, our AMPS system, including SPREOS DIRCM, is now available for civil aviation, ensuring maximum security for VVIP and high-value commercial aircraft worldwide.”

About Bird Aerosystems’ AMPS & SPREOS DIRCM

SPREOS is a patented DIRCM system designed for missile approach protection. It detects, tracks, confirms and protects against missile threats with practically zero false alarms. SPREOS ensures precise protection against MANPADS threats and seamlessly integrates with diverse missile warning systems.

BIRD’s versatile AMPS solution provides complete protection against ground-to-air threats, including simultaneous defense against multiple MANPADS attacks, for helicopters, transport aircraft and VVIP aircraft used by heads of state.

For more information, please visit www.birdaero.com.

Posted in Aviation, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin Host International Summit Showcasing Long Range Precision Fires GMARS Launcher

April 1st, 2025

Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin, partners in the Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System (GMARS) program, hosted a summit for international customers in Europe. The event brought together military leaders, industry experts, and defense professionals from 14 nations to discuss the latest developments with the two-pod launcher system as well as long range precision fires. Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin will also host a live firing event to demonstrate GMARS capability this summer.

LTG (R) Ben Hodges, former Commander of US Army Europe, delivered the keynote address sharing insights on the challenges and opportunities on the modern battlefield. Customers attended factory tour and presentations on the GMARS launcher, its capabilities and the range of munitions available, including the precision-guided munitions from Lockheed Martin.

Discussions on interoperability, a key focus of the summit, shared how GMARS can integrate with NATO systems, such as HIMARS and M270, to provide a comprehensive and flexible long range precision fires capability. The GMARS launcher, based on the Rheinmetall HX3 vehicle, offers a high degree of mobility, survivability and versatility, making it an ideal solution for military forces operating in a rapidly changing environment.

The event also included a networking session, providing attendees with the opportunity to engage with industry experts, military leaders, and peers to discuss their specific requirements and challenges.

“We were pleased to showcase the capabilities of the GMARS launcher at the summit with our partner Lockheed Martin,” said Dr. Björn Bernhard, Head of Rheinmetall’s Vehicle Systems Division. “This event provided a unique opportunity for European customers to learn more about the system, its benefits, and how it can support their long range precision fire requirements.”

“Lockheed Martin is committed to delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers,” said Paula Hartley, vice president and General Manager of  Tactical Missiles at Lockheed Martin. “The GMARS program is a prime example of this commitment, and we were pleased to discuss its capabilities and benefits with customers at the summit.”

For more information on the GMARS program, please visit: www.rheinmetall.com/en/products/tactical-wheeled-vehicles/wheeled-armoured-vehicles/gmars

Posted in Fires, Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

Galvion’s European Production Hub in Poland ais Declared Fully Operational

April 1st, 2025

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, has announced that their European Production Hub in Poland is now fully operational. The facility represents a major investment that has significantly strengthened Galvion’s regional support and service strategy. With both production and support capabilities fully operational, Galvion is now able to serve their widespread European and NATO customers from a geographically aligned centre of excellence.

First announced in September 2023 and driven by Galvion’s ongoing successes in NATO and the wider European regions, the new facility is based in Gdansk. Production has been running for close to a month, with Galvion’s flagship Caiman® helmets as the inaugural systems coming off the production line in preparation for shipment to a key customer in Northern Europe. With this major milestone, the facility is officially declared as operational. Galvion plans to follow this announcement with a formal VIP opening ceremony in June.

Following recent consecutive program awards from key European nations, including a NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) framework contract, Galvion is expecting to have close to 2 million helmets in service across NATO and other European countries by the end of 2026. Galvion’s new Gdansk facility houses helmet finishing and assembly capabilities, in addition to critical support, maintenance, refurbishment, upgrade and training operations. The Gdansk location was chosen following a comprehensive search and assessment period, and the functionality of the facility is expected to expand through 2026 and beyond, supporting Galvion’s full product and solutions portfolio. Galvion’s existing core facilities in Canada and the USA will continue to design, develop, manufacture and service domestic, regional, and key global programs, customers, production and support requirements.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion said: “We are committed to responsible regional operations in order to serve our global customer base in the most efficient way possible. Having the ability to both produce and support helmet systems in Europe is a big step for us and for our NATO customers, as we continue to receive orders through the NSPA framework contract and beyond.” Stirtzinger added: “Our investment project here has been built from the ground up, requiring support, coordination and collaboration across Galvion, not to mention a network of local and national partners in Poland. It is really gratifying for our entire team to see the first Caiman helmets coming off the production line. Special thanks go to our Polish team for their relentless dedication as well as to everyone else who has helped make this such a success.”

Posted in Helmets, Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Strike Industries Strike A2 Blast Shield

April 1st, 2025

Las Vegas, Nevada — Strike Industries has released a new Concussion Reduction Device, the Strike A2 Blast Shield, which directly attaches onto any A2 Flash Hider muzzle device (chambered for either 5.56mm or 9mm).

Similar to the Original Oppressor, the A2 Blast Shield is installed via rotating the device to tighten onto its internal detents after slipping it over an A2 muzzle device.

Its purpose is to redirect and reduce concussive blasts from live fire. The A2 Blast Shield also has six ports to help retain the birdcage’s natural flash suppression and compensating qualities. With its unique fork locking design, this Blast Shield includes a safety mechanism that allows for the fork to stay locked and secured even if the device has not been fully tensioned.

The A2 Blast Shield was inspired by Strike’s development of its Oppressors as this product was designed to solve a looming problem of aging military, government, and law enforcement agencies’ armories: With many AR-15 and M4-style rifles getting older, many of these entities have been forced to retire their old inventories to update with newer platforms which can be costly.

As a more cost effective solution, the Strike A2 Blast Shield is retailing for only $99.95 MSRP.

Opting for this quick upgrade is an easy decision to reduce and redirect concussive blasts not only making for a better shooting experience but it can also improve communication on the ground between officers or soldiers when in a live fire environment.

Being able to retain more situational awareness when training or engaging threats would be a boon to those in the line of duty. Civilian gun owners can also benefit from this enhanced shooting experience on the firing line both indoors and out.

For interested law enforcement agencies, please reach out to us for T&E requests or for bulk purchasing for your department via sales@strikeindustries.com. For media requests, please reach out to mkt@strikeindustries.com.

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Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories, weapons | No Comments »

Reiger Defence Introduces VITOTRAX Maritime Suspension Seat at SOFINS 2025

April 1st, 2025

Hengelo, March 31st 2025 – Dutch shock mitigation specialist Reiger is proud to announce the introduction of its VITOTRAX Maritime Suspension Seat, specifically designed for high-speed military craft operating under extreme maritime conditions at sea or brown waters. The VITOTRAX will be introduced at SOFINS 2025 in France, the leading international event dedicated to special operations forces.

Reiger was already selected by the Royal Netherlands and the Belgian Navy and has successfully retrofitted the jockey seats of the Fast Raiding Interception and Special Forces Crafts (FRISC), vessels that are known to reach speeds and maneuvers that expose crews to forces up to 15G. Reiger worked on the design of the Seat Suspension Unit (SSU) for the jockey seat for two years, including extensive tests and trials by the maritime forces. Reiger have now implemented their SSU technology in a complete new seat, called the VITOTRAX Maritime Suspension Seat. This seat sets the new standard in shock mitigation, safety, and ergonomics for operators onboard of the FRISC. “Our focus has always been on combining top-level performance with maximum operator protection,” says Frans de Bruijn, CEO of Reiger. “VITOTRAX is designed and extensively tested to guarantee operator vitality during missions and preserve its health, this by delivering unmatched control over shock forces and body stability in extreme maritime conditions. Through advanced suspension engineering and dynamic impact mitigation, VITOTRAX ensures personnel remain physically resilient, reducing fatigue and long-term injury risks”

The VITOTRAX seat features:

– Progressive Link Suspension System (PLSS) – Converts impact forces into controlled motion, reducing spinal stress.

-Advanced damping technology – generating comfort at low speeds and protection at high speeds.

– Extreme Suspension Travel – Up to 248 mm of stroke, ensuring maximum shock absorption across all seat positions.

– Biomechanical Design – Optimized posture support to prevent fatigue and long-term injuries.

– Built for Harsh Environments – Corrosion-resistant and engineered for military-grade durability at sea.

Introduction
Designed, tested and manufactured in The Netherlands, VITOTRAX is built to meet the operational demands of special forces and naval units worldwide. To date almost 500 SSU’s have been delivered and successfully introduced into maritime operations. Reiger will introduce VITOTRAX during SOFINS 2025 at Camp de Souge, Bordeaux, from April 1–3, 2025. Visitors are invited to experience the seat and learn how this innovative solution enhances safety and mission success in the most demanding maritime environments

About Reiger
Reiger is a Dutch manufacturer from Hengelo, specialized in advanced suspension systems. The company is market leader in developing suspension systems for extreme off-road motorsports and other exceptionally demanding projects for over 45 years. With their decades of expertise in shock mitigation, Reiger delivers tailor-made products that meet the highest military standards: www.reigerdefence.com

Posted in International, Maritime, Press Release | 1 Comment »

AETC Prioritizes Data Literacy to Equip Staff for Digital Future

April 1st, 2025

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas (AFNS) —  

In today’s increasingly data-driven landscape, the ability to collect, analyze and interpret information effectively is paramount to developing a lethal and ready force. 

Recognizing this, Air Education and Training Command has launched a comprehensive initiative to enhance the data literacy of its staff, equipping them with essential skills for the digital age. 

“The initiative emerged from the command’s strategic operational approach and supports a key line of effort for the command,” Jerry Perez, AETC Chief of Force Development Experiences and Validation, told attendees during the command’s annual Force Development Summit, March 25. “Failure to adapt puts us behind our peers and competitors, impacting our ability to make the right and best decisions.” 

The initiative began with a self-assessment survey administered to AETC staff in November 2023, revealing that over 50% of respondents assessed their data literacy proficiency as basic or less. 

“This concerning trend underscored the need for upskilling,” Perez said. “We’ve got to be better than that. In today’s environment, a basic level is not going to be good enough.” 

The response to the trend has been a multi-pronged approach, Perez said. 

A new performance element, emphasizing foundational training in data literacy was introduced for this year. 

Three core competencies – data management, data analysis and data visualization – were identified, each with four proficiency levels, with the current focus on achieving basic and intermediate proficiency levels across the staff. 

A foundational data literacy course, developed in collaboration with AETC/A9 and AETC/A6, was made available on the AETC learning platform and is mandatory for all staff. 

Additionally, tailored learning pathways focusing on specific areas like AI and Power BI were created to further enhance data literacy skills. 

Looking ahead, AETC’s commitment to data literacy extends beyond this initial push, said Perez. 

A new civilian performance element for the 2025-2026 appraisal period will focus on the practical application of learned data skills. 

Senior staff at the director level will soon be required to undergo AI training. 

Furthermore, personalized learning pathways based on specific roles and responsibilities are being developed to provide more targeted training. 

“By investing in its workforce’s data literacy, AETC is taking proactive steps to ensure its readiness for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age,” Perez said. “This forward-thinking approach will undoubtedly pay dividends, enabling the command to make more informed decisions and maintain its competitive edge for years to come.” 

By Dreshawn Murray, Air Education and Training Command

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post | Comments Off on AETC Prioritizes Data Literacy to Equip Staff for Digital Future

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