FirstSpear

Phokus Highlights Integrated Medical Systems from Discreet Carry to Surgical Care at SHOT Show 2026

January 13th, 2026

LAS VEGAS, NV — Jan 20-23, 2026, Phokus Research Group will present a selection of integrated medical systems at SHOT Show 2026, exhibiting in the ADS Inc. Booth #32103 / Law Enforcement Hall, where the company will showcase scalable solutions spanning discreet everyday carry, individual trauma response, advanced surgical support, and realistic medical simulation products. In addition to the featured products, Phokus will debut more than 20 additional new products across its medical, training, and support product lines during the show.

The lineup reflects Phokus’ role as a medical systems integrator—bringing together in-house design, mission-driven configuration, and strategic manufacturing partnerships to deliver medical solutions built for real-world operational environments.

Discreet / EDC Medical Systems

Vertx Gamut 18L Sling – Phokus Trauma Configuration

Designed for environments where overt medical or tactical equipment is inappropriate, the Phokus Trauma Configuration of the Covert Aid Sling (CAS) provides discreet, organized medical readiness in a low-profile everyday-carry platform. Built on the Vertx Gamut 18L Sling chassis, the system enables rapid access to critical items for trauma management while maintaining a non-descript appearance suitable for civilian, corporate, and executive protection environments.

The configuration prioritizes mobility, intuitive layout, and immediate visual clarity during critical incidents. Offered in scalable trauma loadouts, it allows users to align medical capability with operational risk without changing platforms or compromising discretion—supporting prepared civilians and protection professionals operating in dynamic, public-facing settings.

Individual First Aid Kits (IFAKs) – Modular & Combat-Proven

ORK IFAK (Operator Response Kit)

The ORK IFAK (Operator Response Kit) is a Phokus-configured individual first aid kit built around the High Speed Gear Med Pak pouch, a battle-proven platform recognized for durability, modularity, and rapid access. By leveraging the Med Pak’s established design, the ORK provides a flexible foundation for organized medical carriage across a wide range of operational roles.

Phokus configures the ORK in accordance with Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) guidelines to support mission-driven medical readiness, emphasizing consistent access under stress and a customizable internal organization. Features include a quick-access pull tab, MOLLE compatibility, and a rigid internal organizer panel that is configurable with shock cord and elastic retention, allowing users to tailor the medical carriage while maintaining speed and reliability during self-aid or buddy-aid.

Manufactured by High Speed Gear in the United States and Berry-compliant, the ORK IFAK pairs a trusted pouch platform with Phokus’ configuration expertise to deliver a dependable, operationally relevant medical solution.

Medic & Role 1 Level Systems

Phokus Surgical Ruck (Patent Pending)

The Multi-Mission Medical-Surgical Ruck (M3R-SURG) is a collaboration between Phokus and High Speed Gear, engineered for damage control resuscitation (DCR) and damage control surgery (DCS). Developed to address the demands of advanced care for teams operating in austere, mobile, or forward environments, the system features an external aluminum frame to enhance load carriage. Unlike other solutions on the market, the Surgical Ruck was also designed to store personal sustainment gear (food, water, warming layers), critical for extended operations.

The Surgical Ruck is scalable, agile, and rapidly deployable. It features modular, clear pouches mounted on rigid back panels, enabling teams to configure layouts according to mission requirements. Intended for austere surgical sites, the Surgical Ruck enables the rapid setup of a DCR/DCS capability through internal hanging bags and instrument panels, supporting an efficient transition from movement to advanced care delivery.

Training & Simulation

Wound Torso – In-House Research & Development

Phokus will also showcase its patent-pending Wound Torso task trainer, developed through in-house research and design to support realistic training in hemorrhage control and trauma management. The upper-body task trainer is anatomically configured to simulate complex, high-threat injuries commonly encountered in both military and civilian critical incidents, with emphasis on junctional and non-compressible hemorrhage.

Designed to reinforce TCCC and NREMT principles, the Wound Torso enables responders to train on anatomically relevant wound patterns, treatment priorities, and decision-making under stress. The modular wound cover options allow instructors to tailor scenarios to specific training objectives.

SHOT Show 2026

Phokus Research Group will be exhibiting at SHOT Show 2026 in ADS Inc. Booth #32103 / Law Enforcement Hall, where attendees can view these products in person and engage with the Phokus team on application, configuration, and system integration.

S&S Precision to Showcase Advanced Tactical Equipment at SHOT Show in Las Vegas

January 13th, 2026

Virginia Beach, VA — January 2026 — S&S Precision, a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Virginia Beach–based designer and manufacturer of advanced tactical equipment, will attend SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas, where the company will showcase its latest advancements in modular load-bearing and mission-specific equipment. Attendees are invited to visit Booth 32211 to see firsthand how S&S Precision continues to evolve its systems to meet the demands of today’s end users.

“SHOT Show provides an invaluable opportunity to connect with industry partners, end users, and peers while showcasing how our systems continue to evolve based on real-world requirements,” said Carlo Galinato, Marketing Specialist, of S&S Precision. “We look forward to demonstrating how our latest updates deliver increased modularity, mission flexibility, and performance across a wide range of operational scenarios.”

At SHOT Show 2026, S&S Precision will feature an updated Chest Rig-Modular™ (CR-M™), expanding the platform’s versatility with enhanced modularity designed to support hard armor integration, flotation options, and additional mission-driven configurations. The updated CR-M™ reinforces S&S Precision’s commitment to adaptable systems that transition seamlessly across operational environments.

Also on display will be the latest revision of the PlateFrame-Modular™ (PF-M™), highlighting how the system can be configured for maritime surface operations, maritime subsurface missions, and for direct-action operations. The PF-M™ continues to serve as a scalable, lightweight solution that allows end users to tailor their setup without sacrificing mobility or performance.

In addition, S&S Precision will present updates to theNavBoard® STACK, further refining its capability as a low-profile, mission-essential navigation and admin platform. Designed with operator feedback in mind, the updated NavBoard® STACK enhances organization and accessibility in dynamic environments.

Lastly, S&S Precision announces the next evolution of its proven signaling technology with the Programmable Manta Strobe®, featuring Near Field Communication (NFC) capability that puts mission-specific control directly in the hands of the end user. Through the S&S app, operators can quickly and intuitively program overt and covert light emissions, adjust beats per minute, select constant-on or Morse code signaling, and automatic water activation when submerged for two seconds, during maritime and subsurface operations. and tailor output to meet operational requirements across various environments.

Users can save customized strobe profiles within the app and rapidly deploy them to additional Manta Strobes, enabling fast configuration and consistency when integrating new team members or adjusting mission sets.

 

 

S&S Precision invites SHOT Show 2026 attendees to stop by Booth 32211 to explore these updates, discuss mission-specific applications, and connect with the team behind the products.

Billy Merron

sales@sandsprecision.com

Carlo Galinato

marketing@sandsprecision.com

High Speed Gear Products Group Unveils Its Largest Selection of New Products at SHOT Show 2026

January 13th, 2026

SWANSBORO, NC – January 12, 2025 – High Speed Gear® Products Group (HSGI), is set to make an impact at SHOT Show 2026, unveiling the largest and most ambitious lineup of new products in the company’s history. Fresh off celebrating its 25-year anniversary, High Speed Gear continues to push forward with constant innovation and end-user-driven purpose. Exhibiting at Booth #72739, the Products Group will showcase new gear and holster solutions across the High Speed Gear family of brands, including BlackPoint Tactical, Comp-Tac Holsters, and Crucial Concealment, all united by a shared commitment to delivering premium gear for professionals who demand and deserve the very best.

This year’s presence at SHOT Show represents a milestone moment for High Speed Gear Products Group, with more new products launching at a single show than ever before, each designed with direct input from members of our military, law enforcement agencies, and professional end users.

New Products to See First in The Booth:

• GEN 2 Duty TACO® lineup

• Level III Enhanced Duty Holster

• Level II Slick Duty Holster

• Level II Concealed Duty Holster

• ArcLock™ TASER® 10 Holster

• ArcLock™ TASER® 7 Holster

• Comp-Tac International Holster 2.0

• GEN 2 TACO® lineup in new colorways: Spruce Green and Silver Tan

• GEN 2 Tourniquet Pouch

• 40MM Stock Adapter Plate with RE Factor Tactical

• Duty Key Ring Holder

• Duty Baton Holder

• Universal Light Holster – IWB & OWB options

• Uniform Line new generation products

“This is a record-breaking year for us, as this is the largest selection of new products we’ve ever brought to SHOT Show,” said Allison Mitchum, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for High Speed Gear Products Group. “It’s the result of an incredible team across the High Speed Gear family of brands, united by one purpose: delivering uncompromising gear to the men and women who rely on it in the most demanding environments. That’s what drives everything we do.” Tyler Johnson, Vice President of Finance and Sales added, “We are excited about the suite of new products we are delivering to our customers in 2026. From professionals to enthusiasts, all customers will find something that is applicable to them.

High Speed Gear Products Group remains committed to delivering mission-ready, battle-proven equipment that professionals can trust when it matters most. SHOT Show 2026 marks not just a product launch record, but a statement of momentum, growth, and continued leadership in the industry.

Visit High Speed Gear Products Group at SHOT Show 2026 – Booth #72739

EOTECH Launches Super Short 4-12×36 Vudu Scope

January 13th, 2026

Plymouth, MI (January 2026) – EOTECH is proud to add to its family of super short optics, with the release of the Vudu 4-12×36 First Focal Plane rifle scope. The 4-12x shares similarities to EOTECH’s wildly popular 3-9×32 launched in 2025, but its first focal plane design gears this optic to the more tactical or professional user.

The 4-12x’s overall length is only 7.1”, making this optic ideal on even the shortest rifle or AR-pistol designs. &The scope body is constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum to be a compact, lightweight, but still incredibly durable package that is fog, water and shock resistant. Its 36mm objective lens allows for excellent light transmission, even in low-light, or dusk and dawn conditions.

A wide power band on the eyepiece makes transitioning from low to high magnification quick and easy and a substantial boss feature on the power ring makes it even faster. An adjustable diopter allows for precise focus for the individuals vision.

The scope’s turrets offer .1 MRAD adjustments and are both capped to protect from inclement weather or inadvertent adjustments. And, once the scope is zeroed, the turrets can quickly be reset to zero.

A rotary dial located on the left side of the optic provides an illuminated reticle with 10 brightness settings to help in dusk and dawn lighting conditions. A CR2032 is located next to the rotary dial providing roughly 300 hours of operation. The 4-12x sports the same XC high density, low dispersion multi-coated glass as its predecessors for excellent light transmission and scene clarity.

But what makes the 4-12x stand out from other magnified optics is its mounting interface. To minimize the overall length, EOTECH reduced the tube area typically used for mounting rings. Instead, a machined interface located at the bottom of the scope will adapt to the included EOTECH mount, or any aftermarket mini-ACOGÒ mounts, and mount directly on a mil-standard rail. This provides a 1.53” height above more, clearing most rear iron sights.

The first focal plane is preferred by more tactical users because the design allows quick range estimation and trajectory compensation at any magnification. In this design, the reticle and its sub-tensions, maintains its size relative to the target image. For those wanting a non-magnified solution, EOTECH offers an optional ring mount that can be attached to the slim, front tube section to mount an EFLX or other compatible micro sights. It can be positioned at the 12 o’clock position or at 45-degree offsets to give you immediate transitions for close or moving targets.

In the tactical world, size and weight are major factors in equipment decisions.  The super short 4-12x is small in size, lightweight, packed with features, and ideal for any shooting situation. To learn more about this or any other EOTECH product, visit eotechinc.com

EOTECH Vudu 4-12×36 Riflescope Specifications

  • Magnification: 4-12x
  • Focal Plane: First
  • Color: Black
  • Tube Diameter: NA
  • Objective Lens: 36mm
  • Illuminated: Yes
  • Battery Type: CR2032
  • Overall Length: 7.1” (180.3mm)
  • Weight: 16.9 oz (479g)
  • Eye Relief: 4x: 2.5 – 3.1” (65-80mm), 12x: 2.4 – 3.0” (61-77mm)
  • Field-Of-View @ 100 Yards: 4x: 28.5 ft (8.6m), 12x: 9.5 ft (2.9m)

MSRP: Scope/$1,219 and Combo/$1,589.

Deliveries to begin Q1 2026.

For more information, please visit www.eotechinc.com

JMRC Trains World-Class OC/Ts

January 13th, 2026

HOHENFELS TRAINING AREA, Germany – The Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) has been training its Observer, Controller/Trainers (OC/T) in new technologies to keep its world-class training ready for the future fight.

The OC/Ts from the nine “critter” teams are being trained in evolving tasks and technologies such as Maven, electronic warfare (EW), unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), and integrated tactical network (ITN).

“This OC/T recertification training is an opportunity for the OC/Ts to become proficient on some tasks that are constantly changing and new,” said Maj. Dustin Allen, deputy operations for JMRC. “It’s to meet higher headquarters’ intents of knowing new technologies so that we can better facilitate the rotational units as they come through ‘the Box’.”

One of the systems that the OC/Ts are training on is the Maven Smart System. The Maven Smart System is the Department of Defense’s most prominent artificial intelligence capability. Designed to process drone imagery and full-motion video, Maven integrates sensors with artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance battlefield awareness and support operations such as targeting, logistics planning and predicting supply requirements for deployed Soldiers.

“Maven is something that is near and dear to (U.S. Army Europe and Africa’s) heart,” said Allen. “We are trying to incorporate it into our daily battle rhythms, so that the critter teams are well versed in it. We also want to be able to teach the rotational units that come through that aren’t familiar with the system and get them better with it.”

OC/Ts have also been working with UAS. UAS training develops Soldiers’ abilities to operate and employ aerial systems in support of reconnaissance, intelligence collection, and mission planning, helping to facilitate the combined arms fight on the ground.

“UAS is a big push, especially in past rotations where we have seen a massive increase in UAS capabilities on the battlefield,” said Allen. “OC/Ts are going to have their own UAS so that they can send a drone up and inject it there, and watch the rotational units’ UAS.”

Another system that has been seen on the battlefield that OC/Ts are being trained on is EW. EW enhances commanders’ abilities to detect, disrupt and protect against enemy electromagnetic capabilities, enabling freedom-of-action across the battlefield.

“Big in current warfare is the introduction of electronic warfare,” said Allen. “During this time, we are giving the OC/Ts the opportunity to see and become familiar with the vastly growing EW capabilities.”

The last system that the OC/Ts are being trained on is the ITN. ITN delivers secure, resilient and expeditionary communications that connect Soldiers, platforms and command posts across the battlefield. ITN is designed to operate in contested and degraded environments, and enable timely data sharing and mission command to support multi-domain operations.

“You can interconnect the radios that we use for our communications network across Hohenfels and JMRC, so we can communicate more clearly across the box,” said Allen.

“Our OC/Ts are already world-class,” said Allen. “This training can help make them even better and have more systems that they are proficient in. We’re really going to see all this hard work they are putting in, be used in the next Combine Resolve we host, and I’m excited to see them use all these new systems we have.”

Story by SGT Collin Mackall 

7th Army Training Command

Germany Buys Eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian RPA Through NSPA

January 13th, 2026

NSPA Supports NATO Countries in the Acquisition and Sustainment of GA-ASI’s Advanced Multi-Domain RPA

SAN DIEGO – 12 January 2026 – Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support and the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) have announced the procurement of eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). The program includes four Certifiable Ground Control Stations. First delivery is expected in 2028.

Germany joins a growing list of NATO countries that have selected GA-ASI’s advanced MQ-9B RPA for its multi-domain capabilities with exceptionally long range and endurance. The platform provides pole-to-pole satellite control and de-icing capabilities to enable missions in cold climates. SeaGuardian features two multi-mode surface-search radars that deliver wide-area maritime surveillance, with an option to add Anti-Submarine Warfare capability. Additionally, MQ-9B’s in-house-developed Detect and Avoid System aids its ability to fly in unsegregated airspace for domestic civilian operations, making it highly versatile for operations from Germany.

In 2025, MQ-9B became the first large RPA to obtain a Military Type Certificate from the UK’s Military Aviation Authority, certifying its safe operation without geographic restrictions, including over populous areas.

“We’re thrilled that Germany has joined the list of NATO countries that have selected MQ-9B SeaGuardian,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “The proliferation of MQ-9B in Europe delivers commonality between NATO countries and for Germany, it will provide opportunities for interoperability with their fleet of P-8As.”

The acquisition negotiation was executed on behalf of Germany by NSPA, which has developed a contractual framework through the MQ-9 Support Partnership (MIC SP) for supporting cooperation amongst its member nations and enabling the procurement of MQ-9B for NATO Allies and Partners. NSPA has added MQ-9B to its portfolio of defense systems to contract on behalf of NATO nations, with the goal of enhancing interoperability for joint training and operations.

“This Support Partnership demonstrates how NSPA enables efficient, effective and responsive multinational acquisitions for advanced, interoperable capabilities. We are proud to support Germany in this strategic investment for maritime surveillance and security,” said Ms. Stacy A. Cummings, NSPA General Manager.

MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian® models as well as the Protector RG Mk1 that is currently being delivered to the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF). GA-ASI also has MQ-9B procurement contracts with Belgium, Canada, Denmark, India, Japan, Poland, Taiwan and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command and is looking forward to welcoming Germany to that group. MQ-9B has also been featured in various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, RIMPAC, and Group Sail.

Magnet Defense Enters into Definitive Agreement to Acquire ATG to Accelerate Integration of AI-Enabled Autonomy Solutions for National Security

January 12th, 2026

MIAMI, Jan. 9, 2026 — Today, Magnet Defense LLC, a developer of fully autonomous national security maritime platforms for fleet operations and missile defense missions, announces that it has officially entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Advanced Technology Group (ATG), subject to customary closing conditions. This acquisition further enhances Magnet Defense’s autonomy solutions by incorporating ATG’s open-architecture AI solutions into its DefendAI battlespace management suite. These are the brains and backbone behind Magnet Defense’s end-to-end AI-enabled autonomous maritime defense solutions.

ATG delivers end-to-end development and integration of advanced Command and Control and Artificial Intelligence capabilities for air, space, maritime, and surface platforms. With an elite group of mission architects, AI integrators, and software engineers, ATG is solving some of the U.S. Department of War’s most difficult challenges across all domains. ATG’s capabilities will accelerate Magnet Defense’s seamless integration of its platforms into theater and operational battlespace management systems.

Magnet Defense intends to begin aligning and integrating ATG’s Autonomy Exchange for Interoperable Modularity (AXIOM) AI-enabled autonomy stack with its own proven autonomy capabilities. AXIOM’s set of proven mission modules will streamline Magnet Defense’s integration into the native command and control systems found in military services, operations centers, and combatant commands across the sea, land, air, space, and cyber domains. ATG’s leadership and employees will continue to support existing customers while contributing to expanded programs across the combined organization.

About Magnet Defense
Magnet Defense is a developer of fully autonomous national security maritime platforms for fleet operations and missile defense missions. We integrate AI-driven software solutions, advanced manufacturing systems, and mission architecture expertise to deliver the most advanced purpose-built USVs for the U.S. and allied militaries.  Learn more at www.magnetdefense.com

Holosun Announces AEMS-EVO-DUAL

January 12th, 2026

Meet the Holosun AEMS-EVO-DUAL.

One optic built for every lighting condition.

With a precision red dot, integrated visible green laser, and infrared laser all in one rugged housing, the AEMS-EVO-DUAL delivers seamless performance from bright daylight to full night-vision use. A wide 1.26 inch window and selectable reticle options keep your sight picture fast, clear, and adaptable.

Included with every unit is a single Crane-plug dual-button pressure pad, giving you instant, intuitive control of the laser systems when it matters most.

Solar Failsafe, Shake Awake, CR123A power, and IPX8 waterproofing round out a setup designed for reliability without overcomplication.