GORE-TEX Professional

SOFWERX – Modular Payload Software Defined Radio

August 15th, 2025

SOFWERX, in collaboration with USSOCOM Program Executive Office Tactical Information Systems, will host an Assessment Event (AE) 28-30 October 2025 to identify a currently available USSOCOM modular payload Standard Version 5.1 standard compliant software defined radio (SDR) for UAS, Manned Aircraft and Small Maritime Vessels, with an open architecture to enable porting of Special Operations Forces-Peculiar waveforms as well as the ability to undergo a development effort to align SDR capabilities with USSOCOM needs.

The SDR must have an open architecture that allows a development effort to be conducted in partnership with USSOCOM to meet operational requirements. The modified SDR must have open architecture that also allows third party waveform development/ports. The operational SDR will enable efficient and effective interoperability with various maneuver platforms, antenna configurations, and Electronic Warfare systems. This is NOT an effort to develop/engineer a new SDR modular payload standard radio chassis. The SDR will have the ability to port and natively run both SOF-P and DoD communication waveforms. Software zeroization (aka “Bricking”) will be integrated into the SDR to reduce risk of critical program information loss. The SDR must have the ability to port and natively run SOF-P waveforms without additional modules while maintaining the modular payload standard.

For more information and to register, visit events.sofwerx.org/peo-tis-sdr

Submit NLT 17 September 2025 11:59 PM ET
U.S. Citizens Only

Mission First Tactical 7.62×51/.308 20 rd Translucent EXD Magazines

August 15th, 2025

Horsham, PA – (August 11th, 2025) – Mission First Tactical (MFT), proudly introduces the new MFT 7.62×51/.308 20 rd. Translucent EXD Magazines. These new magazines are the toughest, most reliable translucent magazines available on the market today. Designed to perform in the harshest conditions, these magazines meet the highest demands and are currently deployed with Federal Law Enforcement Agencies.

Crafted from a military-grade proprietary copolymer, these are not your traditional Poly Carb Mags. They are designed for the AR10A/SR25/M110 pattern rifles and optimized for use with SAAMI-spec 7.62×51/.308 Winchester ammunition. The MFT Translucent EXD Magazines are made to resistant to heat, cold, UV, harsh chemicals, and drop impact, even in extreme temperatures. The magazines will not crack, become brittle or discolor over time. No lip reinforcement is required. The translucent body, offered in Clear and Smoke colors, allows for quick visual confirmation of ammo count and type, and has a textured finish to reduce shine. Compatible with a wide range of AR15/M4 and non-AR15/M4 platforms in 7.62×51/.308 caliber.

Features include:

  • Next generation long glass fiber polymer 
  • Enhanced strength & durability 
  • Ribbed front and rear gripping surface 
  • Tool-less disassembly with double floor plate safety release tabs.
  • Long-life stainless-steel spring with four-way anti-tilt self-lubricating follower
  • Flared floor plate
  • Oversized bolt catch
  • Paint pen dot matrix

MSRP: $24.99

To learn more about the MFT 7.62×51/.308 Translucent 20 rd. EXD Magazines, and the complete product lineup from Mission First Tactical, please visit www.missionfirsttactical.com. Stay connected with the latest updates by following MFT on Facebook and Instagram.

FirstSpear Friday Focus – HANGAR-A PACK

August 15th, 2025

The Hangar-A Pack is engineered for professionals who need secure, organized, and mission-ready transport for UAS equipment. Its spacious main compartment features modular, structured interior dividers that allow for customized organization, making it easy to section off drones, payloads, batteries, and other mission-critical gear.

The stiffened structure enhances protection for delicate electronics, ensuring they remain secure during rough handling, airborne operations, or rapid deployment scenarios.

Reinforced and covered side-release buckles are specifically designed to withstand parachute landing impacts, offering added reliability during airdrop or airborne insertion. Padded shoulder straps with quick-release adjustment buckles provide comfort and adaptability for extended carries or quick doffing in high-intensity situations.

Integrated reinforced attachment points for airdrop hardware expand the pack’s versatility for specialized missions. The design emphasizes both protection and accessibility, enabling operators to quickly retrieve essential gear without compromising organization.

The modular layout accommodates evolving mission requirements, whether transporting small reconnaissance drones or larger payload configurations. Its balance of comfort, adaptability, and reinforced construction ensures it performs in both tactical and field-based operations.

From secure drone transport to field-ready modularity, the Hangar-A Pack is a trusted solution for operators who can’t afford compromises. Its construction reflects the needs of today’s rapidly evolving mission sets, offering protection, modularity, and deployment readiness in one streamlined package. Designed for the field, built for the mission, the Hangar-A Pack is ready for wherever the operation takes you. 

FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting-edge tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train. For more information visit First-Spear.com.

Next Generation Squad Weapons Complete Desert Environmental Testing

August 15th, 2025

FORT BLISS, Texas – No matter where Soldiers are deployed, from the jungles of the Pacific to the deserts of the Middle East, the performance of their weapons and gear is paramount. Given the U.S. Army’s extensive history of operating in harsh, arid environments, it’s essential that the Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) system be rigorously tested under extreme heat conditions.

In the desert heat of Fort Bliss, TX, where temperatures averaged over 100?F, Project Manager Soldier Lethality (PM SL) and the Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) conducted the Hot Weather Test for the M7 Rifle, M250 Automatic Rifle, and XM157 Fire Control. Supported by Soldiers from the 1st Armored Division, the team spent weeks performing various tests, including New Equipment Training, weapons qualification, tactical vehicle ingress/egress drills, and a 72-hour Force-on-Force exercise.

“Throughout these exercises, we closely monitored Soldiers’ feedback, focusing on the weapon systems’ suitability, reliability, and maintainability in desert conditions,” explained Maj. Mark Fischbach, Assistant Program Manager for Soldier Weapons. “Soldiers also provided valuable input on how the weapons performed in practical, real-world scenarios.”

During the exercises, the evaluators also focused on ingress and egress drills from the Bradley Fighting Vehicle (BFV) and the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV). Soldiers, especially mounted infantry, must be able to enter and exit these vehicles with their weapons and gear intact in order to remain lethal.

The successful trials in the harsh desert environment underscore the NGSW’s ability to meet the demands of future warfare, offering Soldiers a more reliable, lethal, and adaptable weapon system. The NGSW Desert Test is one in a series of environmental tests that includes arctic, desert, and tropic.

The M7 Rifle and M250 Automatic Rifle are the successors to the M4A1 Carbine and M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) respectively. Both weapons utilize the XM157 Fire Control, a 1-8x variable magnification optic with a number of advanced technologies integrated into the optic, and the 6.8mm family of ammunition. The NGSW provides Soldiers significantly more accuracy, range, and lethality beyond legacy weapon systems capabilities.

The NGSW is currently being fielded to Units across the Close Combat Force (CCF).

By Garrett Dacko

SIG SAUER Cross Sawtooth Now Available In 6.5PRC

August 14th, 2025

The Ultimate Backcountry Precision Rifle Now Shipping in New Caliber

NEWINGTON, N.H., (August 14, 2025) – SIG SAUER, industry-leading manufacturer of cutting-edge firearms, optics, and ammunition, is excited to announce the availability of the newest addition to the acclaimed CROSS® SAWTOOTH precision bolt-action rifle line: the CROSS SAWTOOTH chambered in 6.5 PRC. The newest variant blends extended-range performance with a rugged, field-ready design – built specifically for serious hunters and precision shooters demanding unmatched accuracy and uncompromising durability all in an exceptionally light weight package. 

At the heart of the CROSS Sawtooth is the premium 22-inch PROOF™ Research carbon fiber barrel, precision-engineered for reduced weight and superior heat dissipation without sacrificing rigidity. This 6.5 PRC barrel delivers exceptional consistency, flat trajectories, and sub-MOA accuracy at extended distances—even under harsh conditions. Every CROSS Sawtooth is backed by SIG SAUER’s Sub-MOA Accuracy Guarantee.

Designed for field versatility, the CROSS SAWTOOTH features a fully folding and adjustable precision stock that locks securely for compact carry and quick deployment. Whether navigating dense timber or packing into remote high country, the folding design reduces overall footprint without compromising stability or comfort. The adjustable 2-stage match-grade trigger offers a crisp, clean break and can be tuned to the shooter’s preference, enhancing control for long-range engagements.

Other key features include:

  • Free-floating M-LOK handguard with ARCA rail for tripod or bipod use
  • Ambidextrous safety and magazine release
  • Stainless steel heavy-profile radial brake (reduces felt recoil by up to 45%)
  • 20-MOA Picatinny rail
  • AICS-pattern detachable magazine compatibility
  • Cerakote Moss™ finish

“The CROSS Sawtooth in 6.5 PRC is a natural extension of our precision hunting rifle line,” said Robby Johnson, Chief Marketing Officer. “As demand grows for new high-performance, flat-shooting cartridges, we will continue to evolve the CROSS line to accommodate the ballistic performance hunters and marksmen are looking for. This rifle offers the ideal balance of power, precision, and packability—delivering on the promise of the SAWTOOTH platform in every way.”

The SIG SAUER CROSS Sawtooth in 6.5 PRC is available now at authorized SIG SAUER dealers.

To learn more about SIG SAUER, please visit sigsauer.com.

DroneShield Launches SentryCiv: A Next-Gen Counter-Drone Solution for Public Safety and Critical Infrastructure

August 14th, 2025

Innovative, passive, cost-effective airspace security technology strengthens defense for high-risk, non-military environments

12 August, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – DroneShield, a global leader in counter-uncrewed systems (CUxS) technology, proudly announces the launch of SentryCiv, its latest solution designed specifically for critical infrastructure protection. 

With an advanced, yet cost-effective approach, SentryCiv empowers non-military sectors to safeguard critical assets against rising drone threats. The solution delivers an innovative, non-emitting new layer of security to airports, utilities, data centers, venues and stadiums, government buildings, correctional facilities, and other high-risk sites. 

As drone threats continue to proliferate worldwide, critical infrastructure is increasingly vulnerable to malicious and unauthorized drone activity. SentryCiv offers a comprehensive, scalable solution that provides real-time detection, and situational awareness. This next-gen technology is engineered to seamlessly integrate into existing security frameworks, enabling a rapid response to potential threats without disrupting operations.

Key Features of the SentryCiv Counter-Drone Solution:

Integrated Command & Control
Seamless connection to Sentry-C2 Civ platform provides operators with real-time alerts, threat prioritization, customizable zones, data logging, and integration with third-party systems.

Drone Signal Detection and Identification
Proprietary DroneLocator technology enables “dot-on-a-map” tracking of threats and operators, beyond RemoteID.

Detection Without Disruption
Encrypted RF Threat Detection-RFAI™ engine identifies over 150 common drone models without disrupting existing communication systems.

Future-Proof Technology
Quarterly software updates expand the drone detection library, improve performance, and introduce new features to stay ahead of UxS developments. Critical infrastructure providers face unique challenges in securing vast areas against aerial threats. Traditional defense systems are often too complex or costly for non-military environments. SentryCiv is different. By leveraging DroneShield’s proven CUAS technology, SentryCiv provides intuitive, on-the-ground detection capabilities, including drone detection and identification all within the SentryC2-Civ, a user-friendly platform tailored for civilian use. 

Airspace security for critical infrastructure and public safety has never been more urgent,” said Tom Adams, Director of Public Safety at DroneShield. SentryCiv represents our commitment to making advanced counter-drone solutions accessible and affordable for non-military sectors. This solution is a game-changer for industries like law enforcement, corrections, aviation, and utilities, providing cost-effective, reliable means of protecting critical assets from evolving drone threats.

As part of its broader strategy, DroneShield is committed to continuously enhancing its product offers, ensuring that critical sectors are equipped with the most advanced, yet accessible tools to stay ahead of emerging security threats. SentryCiv is poised to set a new standard in the industry, providing an affordable, reliable solution for sectors that must ensure both public safety and operational continuity.

Learn more at droneshield.com.

Darley Launches Dedicated Uncrewed Systems Hub to Support Rapidly Evolving U.S.-Made, Blue UAS Cleared, and NDAA-Compliant Markets

August 14th, 2025

ITASCA, IL – August 14, 2025 – Darley, a leading provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment, is proud to announce the launch of a new section on its website, darley.com/uncrewed-systems, dedicated exclusively to uncrewed systems. This new hub showcases cutting-edge solutions from top trusted industry partners, spotlighting a robust lineup of U.S.-made, Blue UAS Cleared, and NDAA-compliant uncrewed platforms.

This new digital hub reflects Darley’s commitment to supporting national security, operational integrity, and technological excellence. With a focus on innovation and compliance, the site offers Darley’s expanding portfolio of drones that meet the rigorous standards set forth by the laws, regulations, and policies that govern the DoD. In addition, the site features support and access to Darley’s dedicated team of uncrewed systems experts.

“Our goal is to simplify the procurement process and provide our customers with access to the most reliable and forward-thinking uncrewed systems available,” said Peter Darley, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer. “This new section reflects our commitment to innovation and supporting our partners with the tools they need to succeed.”

Learn more on our websites: www.darley.com and shop.darley.com.

Barrett Begins Construction on New Era in Weapon Systems Manufacturing

August 14th, 2025

Barrett Begins Construction on New Era in Weapon Systems Manufacturing

MURFREESBORO, TN – The NIOA Group has officially broken ground on its new Barrett Firearms facility, heralding a new era in weapon systems manufacturing for Tennessee.

The ceremony marking the beginning of construction of the Barrett Manufacturing & Technology Campus (BMTC) and NIOA North American Headquarters, was attended by a host of dignitaries including Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, Senator for Tennessee, the Honorable Marsha Blackburn, Tennessee Economic and Community Development (TNECD) Commissioner Stuart McWhorter, Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr and Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland, industry leaders, company executives and staff.

The BMTC will be the NIOA Group’s global center of excellence for firearms and advanced military weapons manufacturing and research capabilities. The ceremony was held today in conjunction with TNECD.

The $76.4 million project creates a 170-acre campus at 8808 Manchester Pike, not far from the company’s original headquarters where it has proudly operated for more than four decades. It marks the most significant investment in Barrett’s history and reflects the NIOA Group’s long-term commitment to advanced manufacturing and local jobs in Rutherford County.

Barrett has built a legendary reputation for its craftmanship and innovation in large caliber long-range superiority over 40 years and is a trusted supplier to US and allied militaries worldwide. This new facility described as “the factory of the future” will continue that story of innovation, research and development and precision military manufacturing to produce the next generation of advanced soldier fired weapon systems.

Stage 1 of the BMTC includes corporate headquarters, R&D capabilities, large scale state-of-the-art manufacturing and first floor office area spread over more than 250,000 square feet. The expansion will double the Barrett workforce over the next five years and enable the company to meet growing worldwide demand for its commercial and defense products.

Barrett CEO Bryan James said the new facility represented a bold step forward and a long-term commitment to the company’s heritage in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

“As a locally founded business, we’re proud to invest once again in the place that has shaped our success as a global leader serving both the commercial and military markets,” Mr. James said.

“This project not only underscores our commitment to the region, supporting hundreds of local jobs, but it’s a significant investment in our people, our customers and our capabilities.”

Mr. James thanked TNECD and the wider community for their strong support of the project, recognizing its potential to create skilled jobs for the region.

NIOA Group executive chairman and chairman of the Barrett board, Rob Nioa, said the new facility would serve as the NIOA Group’s global firearms and advanced military weapons manufacturing center of excellence.

“Tennessee is a firearms and ammunition industry powerhouse. As we look ahead to global growth, we are excited to be building the factory of the future right here,” Mr. Nioa said.

“This is a strategic investment that will give us the scale, technology and capacity to meet the evolving demands of our customers and defense partners worldwide.”

Construction of the BMTC is expected to be completed by February 2027 with operations to begin soon after.

Government officials, NIOA ownership, Barrett Executives and project developers at the BMTC Groundbreaking Ceremony. (Photo by TNECD)

barrett.net