Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

High Speed Gear Launches GEN 2 TACO Pouches and GEN 2 Operator Belt in New Silver Tan and Spruce Green Colorways for Law Enforcement

July 30th, 2025

SWANSBORO, NC – July 29, 2025 – High Speed Gear, an industry leader in tactical gear and nylon equipment, is proud to announce the release of its GEN 2 TACO product line and GEN 2 Operator Belt in two new color options: Silver Tan and Spruce Green. These new additions were developed in direct response to requests from law enforcement agencies seeking mission-specific color variants to better meet their uniform and operational needs.

The GEN 2 TACO line builds upon the legendary performance of the original TACO series, known for its versatility, durability, and ability to securely hold a wide range of magazines and tools. Now, with the addition of Silver Tan and Spruce Green, agencies can further optimize their gear loadout for their unique environments and uniform standards.

“Many of our law enforcement partners operate in jurisdictions where traditional tactical colors may not be ideal,” said Gary Robbins, Director of Law Enforcement Business Development at High Speed Gear. “By expanding our GEN 2 TACO line, and now the GEN 2 Operator Belt, into Silver Tan and Spruce Green, we’re providing solutions that align with the specific needs and aesthetics of these departments, while maintaining the performance and quality they’ve come to expect from HSG.”

Both product lines retain all the core features professionals rely on:

GEN 2 TACO Features:

• Universal fit for rifle and pistol mags, tools, and other accessories

• Improved mounting system for MOLLE and belt compatibility

• Enhanced materials and construction for extended durability in the field

GEN 2 Operator Belt Features:

• Reinforced two-belt system for superior support and load distribution

• Hook/loop interface to prevent shifting during movement

• Compatible with TACO pouches and most tactical gear on the market

The new color variants are available now through High Speed Gear and its authorized dealer network.

For departments interested in agency-level purchases or color-specific needs, please contact HSGI’s law enforcement team for additional support and pricing:

Gary Robbins
Director, Law Enforcement Business Development
gary.robbins@highspeedgear.com
727-424-8598

Posted in Advertiser, LE, Load Carrying | Comments Off on High Speed Gear Launches GEN 2 TACO Pouches and GEN 2 Operator Belt in New Silver Tan and Spruce Green Colorways for Law Enforcement

Ops-Core RAILINK Partner Spotlight: Princeton Tec

July 30th, 2025

In the latest contribution to our series on the Ops-Core RAILINK ecosystem we discuss Princeton Tec and their Switch MPLS. This isn’t the first time these two trusted companies have worked together. In fact, the Switch MPLS (Modular Personal Lighting System) uses technology developed for use with the ARC RAIL but now optimized for seamless integration with RAILINK.

The Switch MPLS provides a lightweight, mission-adaptable lighting solution fully integrated into the Ops-Core RAILINK system, emphasizing ease-of-use, modularity, and battlefield reliability.

Integrated into a streamlined helmet system with RAILINK, the light remains powered, secure, and always ready, reducing the risk of gear failure during long shifts. That common power means lighter weight and every ounce on the head matters.

The Railink Switch MPLS is a low light/IR easy to operate directional lighting solution that works with the Gentex Railink powered rail system. Weighing in at only 13 grams with its easy-to-operate glove friendly buttons gives the end user a fail-safe lighting solution for all their low light and IR lighting needs.

It provides 6 lumens of Red and IR light for up close illumination which won’t give the operator away at long distances. The directional beam allows users to perform map reading or equipment checks without compromising their position with a broad flood of light thanks to the flexible boom which puts the light where you want it.

Glove friendly buttons allow you to control it with ease, even in cold and wet conditions. Speaking of wet conditions, with an IPX7 rating, the light is protected from the effects of temporary immersion in water.

The advantages are many. Operators can switch between Red and IR output depending on visibility requirements while maintaining stealth, all without needing to remove gloves or fumble with cables.

Features:

• Integrated Power: Switch MPLS draws power directly from the Ops-Core RAILINK system, eliminating the need for onboard batteries.

• Dual Spectrum Output: Equipped with Red and IR LEDs, this light meets the demands of both visible and covert operations, supporting mission flexibility without equipment changes.

• Directional Illumination: Precisely aim light to where it’s needed, ideal for administrative tasks, reading maps, checking gear, or maintaining light discipline in tactical environments.

• Lightweight Design: At only 13 grams, the light delivers essential capability with minimal burden on the helmet system, supporting long-wear comfort and operational mobility.

• Ambidextrous Mounting Options: Can be configured on either side of the helmet, ensuring compatibility with other RAILINK-enabled accessories and user-specific setups.

To learn more about the Ops-Core RAILINK System, visit shop.gentexcorp.com/railink.

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets, Lights | Comments Off on Ops-Core RAILINK Partner Spotlight: Princeton Tec

21st Air Task Force Sharpens Drone Capabilities with sUAS Training

July 30th, 2025

DYESS AIR FORCE, Texas —

Eight Airmen assigned to the 21st Combat Air Base Squadron, part of the 21st Air Task Force, completed small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) training at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, July 14-18, enhancing their technological capabilities and operational readiness ahead of their upcoming deployment.

Hosted by the 628th Civil Engineer Squadron sUAS program office, the weeklong training course prepared Airmen for practical integration of drone technology in support of operational planning and force protection. Training scenarios included search-and-rescue operations, dense forested terrain navigation, and nighttime reconnaissance using thermal imaging—simulating environments where sUAS platforms act as low-cost, high-value force multipliers.

“I have a new appreciation for how critical sUAS technology is for the future fight,” said Tech. Sgt. Hunter Pryor, 7th Civil Engineer Squadron and 21st CABS station chief. “Now our team has several members, all from different career backgrounds, that can employ it effectively, which gives us a lot more flexibility in a contested environment.”

Upon completion of the training, each Airman received certification as a sUAS operator—a capability developed outside of their primary career field. Their newly acquired capabilities support broader sustainment and warfighting functions that will be tested throughout multiple exercises and training events.

“This kind of training is the Mission Ready Airmen idea in reality,” said Col. Thomas Walsh, 21st ATF commander. “Smaller, multi-disciplinary teams, using technology like sUAS, additive manufacturing and AI will be able to solve more problems faster and with less resources in contested areas. We are training how we expect to fight.”

The training aligns with Department of Defense guidance under the recent “Unleashing U.S. Military Drone Dominance” directive, which calls for all combat units to integrate uncrewed aerial systems into force-on-force training by 2027 and equips every squadron with low-cost, expendable drones by the end of 2026.

“Our adversaries have a head start in small UAS, but we will perform a technological leapfrog and establish small UAS domain dominance by the end of 2027,” said the Honorable Pete Hegseth, U.S. Secretary of Defense. “We will accomplish this urgent goal by combining the nation’s best qualities, including risk-taking.”

By integrating sUAS operations into traditional mission frameworks, the 21st ATF is pioneering new tactics, techniques, and procedures that will inform future Air Force operations. As one of only three Pacific Air Forces-aligned air task forces, the 21st ATF is postured to lead the Department of the Air Force’s shift toward Agile Combat Employment, consistently training to operate in contested and austere environments across the Indo-Pacific.

By 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, Training, UAS | Comments Off on 21st Air Task Force Sharpens Drone Capabilities with sUAS Training

Dead Air Silencers Names Jared Rehm as Director of Marketing

July 29th, 2025

Heber City, UT – Dead Air Silencers, a leader in innovative and high-quality firearm suppressors, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jared Rehm as the new Director of Marketing. Jared will spearhead Dead Air’s strategic brand marketing and communications initiatives, ensuring the brand’s continued leadership in both existing and emerging markets.

With over 22 years of experience in marketing and a robust background in the outdoor industry, Jared brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of success. His career highlights include transformative leadership roles at Sellmark Corporation and Benelli USA, where he developed and executed award-winning marketing campaigns that resonated with consumers and drove significant brand growth.

“I am honored to join the talented team at Dead Air Silencers,” said Jared Rehm. “The company’s commitment to innovation and quality aligns perfectly with my passion for crafting compelling brand stories. I am excited to contribute to Dead Air’s mission and to help elevate the brand’s presence in the market.”

Ernie Beckwith, CEO of Dead Air Silencers, expressed his enthusiasm about the new appointment: “We are excited to welcome Jared to our leadership team. His extensive experience and strategic vision will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand our product offerings.”

Jared holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Film and Television Production from the Savannah College of Art & Design. His career is marked by a dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within marketing teams.

For more information about Dead Air Silencers and their full product lineup, visit deadairsilencers.com or watch product videos on Dead Air’s YouTube Channel.

Posted in Industry, Press Release, Suppressors | Comments Off on Dead Air Silencers Names Jared Rehm as Director of Marketing

Silvus Technologies Partners with Commdex to Expand Access to StreamCaster MANET Radios for State, Local and Federal Agencies

July 29th, 2025

Los Angeles, CA – July 29, 2025 – Silvus Technologies, Inc. (“Silvus”), a leader in advanced wireless communications systems, today announced a strategic partnership with Commdex, a premier systems integrator for mission-critical communications. The collaboration will expand nationwide access to Silvus’ StreamCaster Mobile Ad Hoc Network (MANET) radios to state, local, and federal agencies.

Effective immediately, this partnership integrates Silvus’ industry-leading tactical mesh networking technology into Commdex’s solutions portfolio – addressing the rising demand for mobile, resilient, and decentralized communications. From natural disasters to high-risk tactical operations, StreamCaster MANET radios enable critical connectivity when every second counts.

“We’re proud to partner with Commdex to deliver the performance and reliability of StreamCaster MANET radios to public safety, first responders and disaster response organizations across the country,” said Jimi Henderson, Vice President of Sales at Silvus Technologies. “Commdex’s deep expertise in designing and deploying advanced, communications networks make them an ideal partner to support government agencies in implementing secure, reliable mesh networks that perform when it matters most.”

The Silvus family of StreamCaster MANET radios are engineered to operate independently of traditional communications infrastructure, deliver high-fidelity video, voice and data communications with class-leading output power, range, and mobility. At the heart of every StreamCaster MANET radio is Silvus’ leading-edge MN-MIMO waveform technology that creates a self-healing, self-forming, and adaptive mesh network – capable of linking hundreds of nodes with unmatched data rate throughput, EW resiliency, and scalability. This architecture enables the creation of a Tactical Bubble – a mission-ready ecosystem that connects personnel, vehicles, unmanned systems, and command elements into a unified, resilient communications network.

“Commdex and Silvus share a common mission – delivering networking solutions that provide the vital communications link to those responsible for the safety and security of our communities.” said Prince Niyyar, CEO of Commdex. “Recent natural disasters have exposed critical gaps in emergency communications when traditional infrastructure fails. Through this partnership, we’re providing our clients with a critical capability – resilient, high performance mesh networks that perform in the most challenging environments, and when every second could mean the difference between life and death.”

In addition to Silvus StreamCaster MANET radios, Commdex clients will now have access to the recently launched Spectrum Dominance 2.0. Available as a software licensable extension of Silvus’ proprietary MN-MIMO waveform, Spectrum Dominance 2.0 is an ever-expanding suite of Low Probability of Intercept/Detection (LPI/LPD), Anti-Jamming, and Advanced Threat Protection capabilities that provide secure and protected electronic warfare (EW) resilient communications in contested environments, without sacrificing performance.

Commdex will begin immediate deployment of StreamCaster systems, backed by hands-on training and technical support through their nationwide service network.

Agencies looking to enhance their tactical communications capabilities with Silvus’ StreamCaster MANET radios can contact Commdex for more information.

To learn more about StreamCaster family of MANET radios, visit www.silvustechnologies.com. Stay connected with Silvus on LinkedIn.

Posted in Comms, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Gone In 240 Seconds: The ‘MKC X ARES Diver-1 Mission Timer’ Sells Out In 4 Minutes

July 29th, 2025

July 28,2025 – Stanwood, WA – ARES Watch Co. manufacturer of American operational Mission Timers, and Montana Knife Company, manufacturers of quality American premium knives working people can afford, launched their Limited Edition MKC X ARES® DIVER-1 MISSION TIMER™ on Tuesday, July 22nd- and they were gone before you could blink.

The second in a series of collaborations between the two American manufacturers, this launch ran out of the 150 time pieces within the first 4 minutes of them being available. This was 10 minutes faster than the previous 14-minute sellout time.

Priced at $800 on the Montana Knife Company’s website, the MKC Tactical x Ares Collaboration Diver-1 Mission Timer, is a robust and rugged timepiece designed to perform when you need it most. This collaboration brings together the rugged expertise of Montana Knife Company and the precision engineering of ARES Watches. Featuring a custom Flat Dark Earth Cerakote bezel sleek black dial with bold white numerals that glow in the dark, an MKC Orange seconds hand and a LASH Ballistic Nylon strap, the Diver-1 Timer ensures readability and durability in any environment.

Built to withstand extreme conditions, the Diver Timer offers 1050 meters of water resistance, making it perfect for everything from tactical use to recreational diving and when weather conditions take a turn. Its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and luminous hands and markers provide clear visibility and protection. The Diver-1 also features countdown functionality standard in military dive watches. Powered by accurate quartz movement, this watch is a reliable for both active-duty and everyday wear.

“At ARES Watches, craftsmanship, control, transparency, and relentless execution are at the core of everything we do,” says Matt Graham, Founder of ARES Watches. “The craftsmanship and quality behind Montana Knife Company never disappoint with their knives that are not only pieces of art – but are uniquely designed to the highest quality to ensure they will be passed down for generations. Our collaboration reinforces our dedication to embody the best in American craftsmanship, the American mission and the American dream.”

The MKC X ARES® DIVER-1 MISSION TIMER™ is personal, functional, and truly one-of-a-kind.

Posted in Press Release, Watches | 2 Comments »

GBRS Group selects William Phebus as Director of Business Development and Sales

July 29th, 2025

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA — JULY 2025 – GBRS Group is proud to announce the addition of William Phebus as Director of Business Development and Sales, bringing over 15 years of proven leadership, market insight, and high-impact execution to the team.

William joins GBRS Group after nearly six years as Director of Sales and Business Development at Sons of Liberty Gun Works, where he played a key role in the company’s explosive growth across the defense, law enforcement, and commercial sectors. His career also includes pivotal leadership positions at American Defense Mfg. and High-Speed Gear, Inc, where he consistently delivered measurable results in revenue generation, government contracting, and strategic partnerships.

A no-nonsense sales leader with a knack for critical thinking and a deep understanding of tactical markets, William has built a reputation on doing the hard things well—whether managing P&Ls, driving COGs efficiencies, or closing multi-million-dollar government and OEM deals.

His approach is direct: build strong relationships, deliver real solutions, and never stop improving.

“I’m not interested in doing what’s already been done,” William says. “I’m here to challenge the status quo, push GBRS into new markets, and do it with a team that’s not afraid to think differently and move fast.”

This move marks a new chapter for both GRBS Group and William as they continue to expand their influence in the tactical, defense, and training industries. Operating remotely out of Virginia Beach, William will focus on accelerating brand partnerships, scaling distribution, and developing long-term sales strategies to keep GBRS Group ahead of the curve.

william@gbrsgroup.com

Posted in Industry, Press Release | 1 Comment »

DroneShield Supports U.S.-UK Project FlyTrap to Strengthen Multinational CUAS Capabilities

July 29th, 2025

DroneShield’s advanced counter-drone technology plays a key role in joint U.S.-UK defense exercises in Germany and Poland

Warrenton, Virginia – July 29, 2025 – DroneShield, a global leader in counter-unmanned aerial systems (CUAS) technology, is proud to announce its participation in Project FlyTrap, a multinational defense initiative led by the U.S. Army V Corps. This critical exercise, running from June to August 2025 in Germany and Poland, brings together United States and United Kingdom forces to advance CUAS capabilities in response to rapidly evolving aerial threats on the modern battlefield.

DroneShield has been exclusively focused on CUAS technology for over 11 years and has deployed nearly 4,000 units across more than 40 countries. Notably, DroneShield’s counter-drone technologies have been deployed to Ukraine since the onset of the conflict, proving their reliability and effectiveness in real-world combat. This battle-tested experience further highlights the company’s commitment to providing proven, operational solutions for countering drone threats and has made it a key player in the defense sector.

“CUAS is no longer optional—it’s essential. We see exercises like Project FlyTrap as crucial to testing technology before it gets into the warfighter’s hands,” said Tom Branstetter, VP of Business Development and Sales at DroneShield. “We’re honored that our technology is playing a role in shaping the future of CUAS operations and supporting the mission readiness of our allied forces.”

Project FlyTrap reflects the ongoing evolution of counter-drone efforts among NATO allies, particularly in response to the escalating drone threats observed in recent conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine. By participating in this exercise, DroneShield continues to reinforce its position as a trusted partner in the defense industry and a key enabler of future-ready security solutions.

Army soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, Royal Yorkshire Regiment, Light Mechanized Infantry, test counter-unmanned aerial systems technologies during Project Flytrap at Joint Multinational Readiness Center, Hohenfels training area, Hohenfels, Germany, June 5, 2025. Project Flytrap involves the application of new technologies alongside our NATO allies and partners to improve combined lethality and deter against threats in the electronic warfare and cyber-electromagnetic activities spectrum. (U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Brent Lee)

Pictured: DroneShield’s DroneGun Mk4. Soldiers from 7th Army Training Command, the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine and 173rd Airborne Brigade all worked together to make this the first live grenade drop from a UAS in the U.S. Army. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Collin Mackall)

The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.

Posted in Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on DroneShield Supports U.S.-UK Project FlyTrap to Strengthen Multinational CUAS Capabilities