Aquaterro

XS Sights Introduces New Sights for Diamondback SDR and Walther PDP Pistols

November 14th, 2025

Fort Worth, Texas (November 12, 2025) – XS® Sights is pleased to now offer Minimalist night sights for the Diamondback SDR and Fiber Optic Sights, Minimalist OR Sights, and Optic Plates for Walther PDP pistols.

Diamondback SDR – Minimalist Night Sights

The serrated, blacked-out rear sight of the Minimalist drives the shooter’s focus toward the tritium front post and downrange threat, making it ideal for those looking for a simple and effective sight upgrade for self-defense. Diamondback SDR owners can upgrade to a green Glow Dot front sight with tritium center. The rear sight features anti-glare serrations and is windage adjustable with a wider notch for easy alignment with the front sight to help you get on target faster.

Walther PDP – Minimalist OR Sights + Optic Plates and Fiber Optic Sights

XS Optic Plates for ACRO or RMR footprint optics are now available to fit Walther PDP pistols. Designed for strength and reliability, XS Optic Plates provide a secure and seamless mounting solution. Featuring precision CNC machining and a durable Black Nitride finish for enhanced corrosion resistance and long-lasting performance, these plates are compatible with most common red dots on the market and offer a rock-solid foundation for law enforcement, self-defense, and competition use. Combine the plate with XS Minimalist OR sights and get a one- stop-shop mounting solution and a low-profile BUIS that does not obstruct your field of view.

XS Fiber Optic Sight kits ship with a precision CNC-machined, serrated rear sight and a front sight with green fiber optic insert. The kit also includes an interchangeable orange fiber optic insert for those who prefer this color. Made in the USA, these durable steel sights deliver exceptional daytime brightness and visibility. The front sight is .215” tall – big enough to be visible yet narrow enough for extreme precision. The rear sight notch is .145” wide with crisp, defined edges to ensure excellent visibility of the front sight blade for fast target acquisition and precision alignment. An ideal choice for Walther PDP owners looking to upgrade their competition and training pistols.

“Our goal is to give shooters more capability with less compromise,” said Jeff King, XS Sights Marketing Manager. “Whether someone is configuring a compact revolver for personal protection or building out a PDP for competition or duty, these new Minimalist, fiber-optic and optic plate solutions deliver clear sight pictures, durable construction, and straightforward installation – all designed and manufactured to help people get on target faster and keep their focus downrange.”

Retail Price:

Diamondback SDR Minimalist Sights: $130.99

Walther PDP Optic Plates: $82.99

Walther PDP Minimalist OR and Optic Plate Bundle: $173.99

Walther PDP Fiber Optic Sights: $66.00

XS sights are backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. The company also offers a 12-year illumination warranty on all tritium products. For more information, visit www.xssights.com.

B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. Exhibiting at the 2025 CATO Conference

November 14th, 2025

November 14, 2025 (Redmond, WA) – Join B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc., a Defense Technology Manufacturer specializing in advanced photonic solutions for military, law enforcement, consumer, and aerospace applications worldwide, at the 2025 CATO (California Association of Tactical Officers) Conference on December 2-4. CATO is a non-profit organization focused on training law enforcement officers to be better prepared to serve their communities.

We are excited to meet with local agencies and showcase our latest laser systems. Our innovative DAGIR® and MILR® series of laser pointers and illuminators will be on display. We will also have our renowned MAWL®, GLAR®, and KIJI® lasers and illuminators. Toschedule a meeting with B.E. Meyers & Co. email us at sales@bemeyers.com. For more information on our products and capabilities, please visit bemeyers.com.

INTEGRIS Unveils New Compact Shield Developed with N.O.C.S., the Special Operations Unit of the Italian State Police, at Milipol

November 14th, 2025

Integris is proud to introduce NOX, a compact ballistic shield engineered with Italy’s N.O.C.S. tactical unit and tested in the field by its operators. The shield will debut at Milipol in Paris, 18–21 November 2025.

The ballistic shield was conceived after a consultation in which tactical operators described repeated challenges associated with traditional shields: difficulty moving inside buses, trains or narrow hallways, limited ability to climb while protected, and exposure when breaking windows or entering vehicles. N.O.C.S required a shield that could travel everywhere they could; up staircases, through tight door-frames, across vehicle interiors and into elevated access points, without sacrificing protection. This request shaped the first design brief for NOX.

The shield’s small footprint allows it to be carried with one arm or worn on the shoulder or back, giving full mobility in confined environments. A dedicated handgun rest allows accurate fire from behind cover and its tungsten glass-breaking spikes provide rapid access to vehicles and building interiors, capabilities tested extensively by the N.O.C.S. team.

“Our missions often require rapid access through vehicles or elevated windows where conventional shields simply do not fit. At those moments, an operator was exposed the instant he appeared at the threshold. With this shield, we will have protection during those crucial seconds. It gives us speed, control, and safety under conditions where every movement matters.”

N.O.C.S. leadership


Front and rear of the NOX shield.

Throughout development, the unit provided hands-on feedback that influenced every detail, from the ergonomics of the padding to the geometry of the handles for gloved use, ultimately leading to a refined and certified second version.

“NOX is the result of genuine cooperation, where a field requirement became a tangible solution. The operators told us exactly where existing shields limited them and by working together, we produced a shield that maintains ballistic protection while allowing full mobility. NOX is small, fast, practical, and built for the realities of close-quarters operations.”

Bianca Revello, Area Manager at Integers

NOX is available in NIJ IIIA configuration and up to Level III+ (7.62×39 MSC), with optional lighting, patches, and accessories. Despite its compact size, it integrates seamlessly with larger column shields during coordinated entry, providing protection in the tight interior spaces that follow.

NOX is a part of the “Design Your Own Shield”program where Integris allows tactical units to customise ballistic shields to their exact mission needs; shape, handles, weight targets, protection level and accessories. With 3D ergonomic samples and prototype hardware for testing, teams can validate handling before production and receive a shield built for their environment and specific needs.

N.O.C.S operator breaking car glass with the NOX shield.

For more information about our ballistic shields: integriscomposites.com/personalprotection/ballistic-shields

The Legend Lives On – Vertx Reshapes The Future Of Everyday Carry With Expansion And Evolution Of The Iconic Gamut Pack

November 14th, 2025

The leader in EDC innovation builds on the legendary bag that sparked a movement, transforming it into a complete lineup that once again sets the industry standard.

CINCINNATI, Ohio (November 14, 2025) – Vertx, the leading manufacturer of cutting-edge tactical and everyday carry (EDC) bags and gear, announced the evolution of its legendary Gamut EDC backpack – transforming the groundbreaking original into a complete Gamut Series, inclusive of 5 packs. What began as one of the most innovative bags in the EDC category has now expanded into a collection, each designed to redefine how professionals and everyday users carry with confidence. The new Gamut Series evolves what made the Vertx original revolutionary by incorporating today’s latest tactical technologies and fabric innovations, reinforcing its place as the toughest and most trusted EDC bag series on the market.

“The original Gamut didn’t just create a category, it created a movement,” said Aaron Silvestain, Director of Marketing at Vertx. “From day one, Vertx has set the standard for the highest quality, purpose-built EDC gear. The expansion and evolution into the Gamut Series builds on that legacy with the kind of innovation and legendary durability, functionality and design that only Vertx can deliver.”

The Gamut Series features five purpose-built designs which include 3 pack sizes and 2 sling sizes, giving users the freedom to choose the perfect fit for any mission, environment or lifestyle. Each bag combines Vertx’s signature discreet aesthetic with enhanced tactical functionality, featuring redesigned interiors for seamless modular and built-in integration, faster access to concealed compartments, and rugged construction built to perform under pressure.

The new line includes:

18L Sling – Compact, agile, and ready for rapid access on the move.

22L Sling – A versatile mid-size option optimized for mobility and organization.

22L Pack – Streamlined and discreet perfect for daily EDC and commuting.

26L Pack – The everyday workhorse, blending capacity, comfort, and concealment.

32L Pack – Maximum space and tactical versatility for larger gear.

“The evolution of the Gamut Series has been driven by our core mission of leading in innovation and functional design in the EDC space,” added Erin Chrostowski, Product Line Manager at Vertx. “The new Gamut Series celebrates everything our users loved about the original and expands into a complete lineup with more functional organization, enhanced CCW functionality, and the legendary strength and durability that Vertx hangs our hat on. We’re proud to bring forward the best version yet of a time-tested favorite that continues to raise the standard for everyday carry.”

Own the legend – shop now at www.vertx.com or find your nearest Vertx dealer to experience the latest firsthand.

Direct Action Introduces MultiCam Tropic – Adapt. Blend. Overcome.

November 14th, 2025

Responding to direct demand from special operations operators, Direct Action® is introducing the MultiCam® Tropic camouflage pattern into its product lineup – a solution engineered for operations in green-dominant environments.

A carefully selected range of 58 products will be available in this colorway, with most already accessible in the online store and the B2B panel.

MultiCam® Tropic is one of the variants of the iconic MultiCam® camouflage family. Designed by Crye Precision and first unveiled in 2013, it delivers high concealment effectiveness in tropical regions, jungles, and European deciduous and mixed forests during spring and summer. Its palette of deep greens and earth browns enables operators to blend seamlessly into their surroundings — from dark forest undergrowth to diffused light on open clearings.

The introduction of MultiCam® Tropic is a direct response to the needs of special operations units requiring configurations optimized for dense vegetation. All new variants remain fully compatible with existing Direct Action systems and the Individual-as-a-System philosophy.

MultiCam® Tropic is effective in:

• European forests (spring/summer)

• Tropical forests and jungle environments

• Humid terrain, river valleys, thick brush, and wetlands

You will also be able to see the MultiCam® Tropic products and sample loadout configurations live during the Milipoltrade show in Paris. We invite all interested visitors to stop by booth 5 F 033 between 18–21 November, 2025.

The MultiCam® Tropic line will ultimately include 58 products, such as:

• Plate carriers: Spitfire, Bearcat, and the upcoming Spitfire QR Plate Carrier

• A wide range of pouches, pockets, front flaps, back panels, cummerbunds, and IFAKs

• Tactical belts and sleeves

• Combat apparel: Vanguard Combat Trousers and Vanguard Combat Shirt

A full presentation of the products, their applications, and sample configuration setups is available on the dedicated page:
directactiongear.com/en/mulicam-tropic-new-camouflage-now-available

215 Gear Launches Two New Products – Genesis Single Point Sling & Multi-Mission Weapon’s Catch V2

November 14th, 2025

 215 Gear launches two new weapon accessories today, the Genesis Single Point Sling and Multi-Mission Weapon’s Catch V2. Both Berry compliant and available in MultiCam, Khaki and Black.

Genesis Single Point Sling

This sling was designed from the ground up as part of a larger system specifically for the Genesis breaching shotgun so you know it’s going to be able to take a beating. The unique design allows for mounting on the unused space on the shoulder strap of the armor carrier by threading the plastic triglide onto the shoulder strap of your armor carrier. The Quick Release (QR) mates with the QR socket on the Genesis receiver. Made with all high-quality Mil-Spec materials.

Multi-Mission Weapon’s Catch, V2

This is another component of the Genesis breaching shotgun system, but can retain any weapon. Unlike other catches on the market that use hardware designed for climbing use, they designed and manufacture their unique hook around the MOLLE it interfaces with. The machined aluminum hook is paired with a stiffened toggle allowing for quick disconnect to employ your weapon. The unique design allows for a low footprint mount on the MOLLE/PALS grid on your armor. Placement on gear is via a sewn loop to girth-hitch around a single channel of MOLLE that allows for a one channel footprint. Made with all high-quality Mil-Spec materials.

Made with 100% U.S.A 6061 Aircraft Grade Aluminum, coated matte black with U.S.A anodizing.

Available from www.215gear.com.

FirstSpear Deepens “Built for The X” Mission with Hire of Special Operations Aviation Expert Brian Erb

November 14th, 2025

FENTON, Mo. (Nov 11th, 2025) – FirstSpear®, the leader in uncompromising equipment for professionals bound for “The X,” today announced the appointment of Brian Erb as Director, Aviation Business Development. The strategic hire of the decorated Special Operations aviator brings a career defined by moments of extreme pressure and critical decision-making, the very challenges FirstSpear equipment is engineered to overcome.

A retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5), Erb brings nearly 30 years of distinguished military aviation experience, including 18 years with the U.S. Army’s 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR (A)). A seasoned MH-47 instructor pilot with more than 3,000 flight hours (over 1,000 in combat and 1,000 under night vision) his career embodies the operational precision and field-tested knowledge that define FirstSpear’s approach. His leadership of the Regimental ALSE (Aviation Life Support Equipment) Shop was pivotal in advancing mission survivability, where he drove the adoption of key aviation and rotary protective systems like the FirstSpear Aviation Body Armor Vest (ABAV) and the Rotary Wing Advanced Tactical Helmet (RATH).

“FirstSpear exists to give operators total confidence in the moments where there is no margin for error. To do that authentically, our team must include professionals who have lived it,” said Scott Carver, Founder and CEO of FirstSpear. “Brian Erb doesn’t just understand ‘The X’; he has navigated it for decades. His expertise makes him a direct partner in readiness, ensuring our design process is always anchored to the unforgiving realities of the mission. He is here to help us uphold our promise: to build and deploy uncompromising equipment for superiority and durability.”

“Throughout my career with the 160th, the safety and effectiveness of fellow Night Stalkers was paramount. I saw firsthand how FirstSpear consistently listened to the operator and delivered equipment that made a real difference for our aircrews,” said Brian Erb. “I’m incredibly proud to now join a company that has been so dedicated to our community. My mission here is to use my experience to help drive the next evolution of gear, ensuring our military aviators have the decisive edge in safety, comfort, and lethality for years to come.”

At FirstSpear, Erb will lead efforts to expand aviation partnerships and product integrations. He will be responsible for translating the evolving demands of aviators and aircrews into tangible, life-saving equipment, ensuring the next generation of operators is equipped for their defining moments.

US Air Force Awards Skydio Initial Contracts to Bring Advanced Autonomy to Mission-Critical USAF Specialties

November 14th, 2025

Skydio X10D systems to enhance situational awareness and mission capability for Tactical Air Control Party and Explosive Ordnance Disposal units

Skydio, the leading U.S.-based drone manufacturer and world leader in autonomous flight technology, in partnership with ADS, a leading provider of products, technology, and logistics solutions for the U.S. Military, today announced two initial multi-million dollar contract awards with the U.S. Air Force (USAF) to expand the deployment of Skydio systems across multiple operational units. These efforts extend Skydio’s presence across Air Combat Command (ACC) Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units, supporting the Air Force’s broader initiative to integrate uncrewed systems into every Airman’s toolkit.

The Skydio systems will support TACP Airmen in characterizing enemy order of battle, enhancing situational awareness, acting as communications relays, and enabling near-peer engagements through integration with strategic platforms and weaponeering solutions.

In a parallel effort, Skydio has also been selected as the aerial robot of choice for USAF EOD units deploying Skydio systems for both garrison operations and contingency deployments with additional systems planned over the next 18 months.

These contracts align with the Air Force’s broader effort to reimagine the Airman identity—integrating uncrewed systems to extend capability, situational awareness, and mission efficiency at every level. USAF Security Forces use Skydio systems on a daily basis for Base Defense and Installation Security, demonstrating the critical role of autonomous drone technology in protecting U.S. Air Force assets. Beyond security applications, units are also operating Skydio technology, such as aircraft inspection modernization at Travis Air Force Base, where the 60th Maintenance Group pioneered the Air Force’s first drone-based inspection program and reduced C-17 inspection times by more than 90 percent—demonstrating the versatility of Skydio systems across diverse mission requirements.

Skydio X10D delivers operational performance with:

  • A sensor package that is unrivaled in any sUAS this size, including a 48MP telephoto camera
  • A best-in-class Teledyne FLIR Boson+ thermal sensor that can pinpoint temperature differences at each pixel
  • Operational resiliency in environments of contested RF and GPS denial with onboard AI and autonomy
  • Built-in AI for visual navigation – up to 300m altitude – comes standard
  • Advanced obstacle avoidance in every direction
  • A proprietary navigation model for use in zero-GPS environments that utilizes a reference point chosen by the operator, ensuring the X10D can find its way back to the original take off point.
  • Modular, open platform that supports custom third-party attachments and controllers
  • Powerful, full-stack security, starting with the chipset and its firmware
  • IP55 rating for nearly all-weather operation

X10D, part of the Blue UAS Cleared List, also meets the stringent cybersecurity and capability requirements the Department of War demands.

These Air Force awards add to Skydio’s growing partnerships across all branches of the U.S. military, including the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Tranche 2 program. The breadth of adoption—from special operations to conventional forces—reflects the operational trust earned by systems designed, assembled, and supported in the United States. Skydio also proudly supports 28 allied nations and 3,500+ public safety agencies, utilities, and enterprise customers worldwide. Skydio’s manufacturing facility in Hayward, CA, is one of the world’s largest drone manufacturing facilities outside of China.

For more information about Skydio for national security, please visit skydio.com/natsec.