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CMSAF Announces Distinctive Beret for Air Force EOD Airmen

October 4th, 2026

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force David R. Wolfe announced Oct. 2 that Air Force explosive ordnance disposal Airmen will earn a distinctive rust-colored beret, recognizing their specialized combat arms mission and contributions to the joint force.

The announcement took place virtually during the graduation of the inaugural Project MAMBA course at Tyndall Air Force Base’s Silver Flag training site.

Project MAMBA, short for Multi-domain Airmen for Modern Battlefield Application, is the Air Force EOD community’s redesigned pre-deployment training pipeline. The course incorporates recent combat lessons and prepares EOD Airmen to operate in complex, contested environments alongside joint and coalition forces.

“Today’s graduates represent the capability, professionalism and warrior ethos that define our explosive ordnance disposal force,” Wolfe said. “As you prepare to deploy and take on one of the Air Force’s most demanding missions, carry forward the pride and combat identity you have earned. The EOD beret will stand as a visible recognition of that identity and your service to the joint force.”

The EOD mission includes conducting specialized render-safe procedures and post-blast exploitation while supporting maneuver forces and protecting personnel, equipment and operations.

The rust beret reflects the EOD mission and the color historically associated with explosive hazards. Its metallic flash incorporates EOD and Air Force symbolism, representing the community’s global mission, technical expertise and legacy of sacrifice.

The beret authorization aligns EOD’s uniform distinction with its designation as a specialized conventional combat-arms career field and recognizes the community’s role in delivering combat capability at the tactical edge.

“EOD Airmen bring disciplined expertise, courage and resolve to the joint force’s most complex and hazardous missions,” said Chief Master Sgt. Steven Harris, EOD career field manager. “The rust beret recognizes their combat-arms identity, honors the community they represent and reflects the capability they will continue to deliver wherever the mission demands.”

Implementation guidance will be released through official Air Force channels as available.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, EOD, Press Release | No Comments »

Army Announces Futures and Autonomous Systems Command

October 3rd, 2026

WASHINGTON – The Army is moving quickly to implement Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s direction to expand autonomous and robotic capabilities across the Joint Force. In a memorandum signed today, Acting Secretary of the Army Adam R. Telle directed the establishment of the U.S. Army Futures and Autonomous Systems Command, or FASCOM, while also ordering changes to Army force structure, acquisition and personnel.

The memorandum follows Sec. Hegseth’s Sept. 30 State of the Force address, where he announced the establishment of an Autonomous Warfare Command and called on the military departments to build the organizations, acquisition approaches and career fields needed to accelerate autonomy.

“Secretary Hegseth made it clear: We are done with the bureaucratic inertia holding back modernization,” said Telle. “The Army is rapidly advancing to maintain our lethal edge. We are forging the U.S. Army Futures and Autonomous Systems Command to get cutting-edge technology into the hands of Soldiers, while prioritizing autonomy in our formations, our acquisitions, and our training to dominate the future of warfare. This is about combat readiness to destroy the enemy and ensure our Army never enters a fair fight. All of this is only possible because of President Trump’s unparalleled leadership.”

Under Sec. Telle’s directive, the Army will integrate autonomous capabilities into at least six formation areas, including aviation, armor, fires, sustainment, engineer and training formations. The Army will also designate a Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Autonomy and prioritize the acquisition and fielding of autonomous fires, combat vehicles, watercraft resupply, breaching, reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition capabilities, as well as collaborative teaming between crewed and uncrewed platforms, no later than fiscal year 2028. This effort builds on work already underway, including the Army’s activation of the Capability Program Executive Office for Mission Autonomyearlier this year to integrate autonomous technologies across multiple Army portfolios.

The directive also addresses the Soldiers and technical experts required to employ these systems. The Army will expand authorizations for 15X Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems Specialists and 390A Robotics Technicians across applicable units, increasing trained autonomy professionals closer to tactical formations.

Together, these actions align Army organizations, acquisition and talent with Sec. Hegseth’s department-wide push to institutionalize autonomous warfare and give Soldiers the capabilities and expertise needed to operate on a rapidly changing battlefield.

Posted in Army, Guest Post, UxS | No Comments »

Team LionStrike Selected to Progress in UK LMV Competition

October 3rd, 2026

Team LionStrike has been selected to progress to the next stage of the UK Ministry of Defence’s Light Mobility Vehicle (LMV) competition, marking an important milestone for the team’s proposal to deliver a modern, adaptable and UK-supported vehicle capability for the British Army.

Bringing together NP Aerospace, GM Defense and BAE Systems, Team LionStrike combines proven vehicle technology with UK engineering, manufacturing and through-life support expertise.

The team’s proposal is designed around operationally proven platforms, configured to meet UK requirements while minimising unnecessary modification and integration risk. The approach also provides a clear pathway to increased UK industrial participation, supporting sovereign capability, skilled jobs and opportunities across the UK supply chain.

David Petheram, MD & SVP, NP Aerospace, said: “We are pleased to have been selected to progress to the next stage of the competition. Team LionStrike brings together complementary expertise from across our three organisations, combining proven technology with significant UK industrial capability. Our focus is on providing the British Armed Forces with a capable, adaptable and supportable solution that can be delivered at pace while creating lasting value for UK industry.”

Team LionStrike will now continue working with the Ministry of Defence through the next phase of the competition.

Posted in Industry, International, Mobility, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Colt Canada Launches C25 in the UK and Europe

October 3rd, 2026

The next evolution of the C7/C8 family is now being introduced to UK and European customers

Copenhagen – 2 October 2026. Colt Canada, the Canadian small-arms manufacturer within the Colt CZ Group, today announces the launch of its new C25 carbine to customers in the UK and Europe. Selected by Canada’s Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces as the successor to the C7/C8 platform, C25 is designed to make soldiers more accurate under the conditions they actually fight in.

The C7/C8 platform that has served Canadian and Allied forces for more than 35 years. C25 builds on Colt Canada’s decades of experience and responds to a changing operational environment in which body armour, longer engagement distances, and evolving battlefield conditions are placing new demands on the individual soldier.

A different approach to the body armour challenge

Level IV body armour is becoming more common, and the current 5.56mm cartridge cannot be relied upon alone to defeat it. With no settled view yet on a next-generation intermediate calibre, Colt Canada, in line with Canadian Department ofNational Defence operational doctrine and employment, has approached the gap from a different perspective: making the soldier dramatically more accurate against the smaller, harder targets that armour leaves exposed, under the fatigue and stress of sustained operations. C25 is a precision and human-factors programme built around a defined Concept of Employment.

Four key changes, one outcome

The C25 was developed under the Canadian Modular Assault Rifle (CMAR) project. It features a 13.7″ chrome-lined, free-floating, cold hammer forged barrel optimized for durability and sustained performance. The C25 is chambered in 5.56 x 45mm NATO and its upper receiver, equipped with full length top rail,accommodates a wide array of attachments, such as the Colt Optics 1–6x Low Power Variable Optic.

C25 carries four meaningful upgrades, each engineered to make the first shot count and the follow-up shot faster:

o Greater consistency under stress – a two-stage trigger provides a more sensitive, positive break.

o Improved accuracy across the effective range – optimised barrel geometry reduces disturbance to the projectile, supporting higher practical accuracy.

o Reduced signature and recoil – controlled gas redirection at the muzzle decreases sound pressure at the firing position, suppresses flash, and reduces felt recoil.

o Faster target acquisition at distance – a low-power variable Colt optic extends the engagement window and reduces exposure time.

Together, these changes are engineered around a single outcome: accuracy under realistic operational conditions. It is a rifle shaped through service, with soldier needs at the heart.

Re-introducing Colt Canada to the UK and Europe

Colt Canada has supplied military customers across Europe, including the UK, since the 1990s. Today, approximately 3,000 Colt Canada weapon systems are in service with the British Army, including the Special Forces, alongside established in-service fleets in the Netherlands, Norway, and Denmark.

Sean Congdon, President and CEO of Colt Canada, comments: “C25 marks an important new chapter for Colt Canada in the UK and Europe. It is not simply about introducing a new rifle. It is our response to how the operational environment is changing and what soldiers need from their weapon system today. It builds on decades of experience with the C7/C8 platform, combined with what our customers have told us about the challenges they are facing in the field. As we bring C25 to the UK and other European markets, we’re taking the same approach that has always defined Colt Canada: listening closely to our customers and developing solutions around their operational requirements.“

Posted in International, Press Release, weapons | 3 Comments »

USAF EOD Finally Gets Their Beret

October 3rd, 2026

Last night, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Wolfe shared this image and comment on social media:

EOD Airmen take on some of our joint force’s most complex and hazardous missions. The beret authorization aligns EOD’s uniform distinction with its designation as a specialized conventional combat-arms career field and recognizes the community’s role in delivering combat capability at the tactical edge.

For over 15 years the AF EOD community has been working to make this happen.

Posted in Air Force, As Seen On Instagram, Clothing, EOD, Profession of Arms | No Comments »

The Battle of Mogadishu

October 3rd, 2026

On this date in 1993, an event occurred which would forever transform US Special Operations. The Battle of Mogadish was fought by a joint organization named ”TF Ranger” deployed to Somalia in support of a UN-led humanitarian mission. Their mission was to dismantle an armed militia led by General Mohamed Aidid which was threatening that aid program.

By October 3rd, the Task Force had several raids, but the events of tahtvday would be unlike anything they had yet experienced. The mission was to capture key leaders of the Aidid Militia in the city’s Olympic Hotel who had been opposing UN efforts to feed the locals.

Unfortunately, during the exfil portion of the raid, a battle ensued which claimed the lives of 18 Americans and wounded another 73. Additionally, CW3 Michael Durant was captured by the Aideed militia after being shot down while piloting his Blackhawk. Fortunately, Durant was later repatriated and went on to retire from the 160th.

Of the men killed that day, two would be awarded the Medal of Honor, Delta Operators Gary Gordon and Randy Shughart, for their selfless efforts to protect Durant after his aircraft, callsign Super 64, was shot down.

A few years ago, the US Army reevaluated the awards presented to the participants of that battle and amongst the Ranger element, upgraded 60 veteran’s awards including 58 Silver Stars and two Distinguished Flying Crosses. The order of battle included other organizations and their Soldiers have received similar upgrades.

If you are unfamiliar with the events, one of the best accounts of the battle is contained in the book, “Blackhawk Down” by author Mark Bowden. Much of the information was serialized prior to the book’s publication in the Philadelphia Enquirer. Later this was made into a movie bearing the same name.

Please take a moment to remember these men and their sacrifice.

Additionally, the 75th Ranger Regiment was created on this day in 1984, along with the stand up of its 3rd Battalion. Four decades later, the Ranger Regiment boasts five battalions of some of the most elite warriors on the face of our planet.

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WOOX Introduces New Bolt-Action Leather Cartridge Quiver

October 2nd, 2026

Hickory, NC. – (September, 2026) – WOOX, the Italian-American maker of premium gunstocks, knives, axes, and outdoor accessories, announces the WOOX Bolt-Action Leather Cartridge Quiver: a refined field companion handcrafted in Naples, Italy. Designed to fit securely on most wood, laminate, and synthetic rifle stocks, the new quiver brings the warmth and character of traditional leatherwork to today’s hunter and shooter.

“There is something enduring about field gear made from honest materials and shaped by skilled hands,” said Ben Fleming, CEO of WOOX USA. “This quiver reflects that idea beautifully. What I appreciate most about the Leather Cartridge Quiver is how it becomes better with time. Like so many WOOX products, the more it is carried and used, the softer the leather becomes and the more character it develops. It’s a piece that does not simply wear, it ages beautifully.”

The WOOX Bolt Action Leather Cartridge Quiver is purposebuilt to fit your rifle’s stock. The smooth, supple surface provides enhanced comfort when resting your cheek. Designed to hold five cartridges firmly in place, the structured leather pouch features an internal elastic retention system engineered to accommodate a wide range of popular hunting calibers ranging from small rounds like .223, all the way up to .300 WIN MAG and beyond.

Handcrafted in Naples from premium Italian Tuscan leather, the interior is lined with soft suede leather to protect your stock, ensuring a scratch-free contact surface. It delivers a refined matte look that pairs beautifully with all different types of stocks.An adjustable and trimmable leather lace system provides a snug and universal fit for most bolt action rifle stocks. A rear leather flap with brass studs neatly conceals the lacingpreventing snags during use. Compatibility may vary on stocks equipped with adjustable cheek risers or other oversized stock-mounted accessories.

The WOOX Bolt-Action Leather Cartridge Quiver keeps your spare cartridges securely mounted to your rifle stock, giving you immediate access to extra rounds while maintaining a clean, traditional look. Whether you’re tracking whitetail through hardwoods, glassing western ridgelines, or spending long days at the range, your ammunition stays exactly where you need it.The WOOX Bolt-Action Leather Cartridge Quiver is currently available for right-handed shooters only.

Key Features:

• Secure Retention: rigid leather pocket with elastic retention system

• Capacity: 5 cartridges

• Attachment: securely attaches to the rifle stock using a traditional leather lace system

• Made with Superior Tuscan Leather, selected for its durability, rich texture, and timeless character

• Suede Leather backing: lined with soft suede leather to help protect the rifle stock and maintain a scratch-free contact surface

• Contrasting Stitching: finished with contrasting ochre stitching for a refined and classic look

MSRP: $149

Like every WOOX creation, the Bolt-Action Leather Cartridge Quiver is built to last a lifetime. For more information about all WOOX premium stocks, knives, axes and accessories, please visit www.wooxstore.com and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on WOOX Introduces New Bolt-Action Leather Cartridge Quiver

Savage Arms Expands AXIS 2 PRO Line with New Mossy Oak Original Bottomland Finish

October 2nd, 2026

WESTFIELD, Massachusetts – September 29, 2026 – Savage Arms®, an iconic firearm manufacturer, is expanding its popular AXIS 2 PRO rifle lineup with the introduction of a new Mossy Oak® Original Bottomland finish, giving hunters a proven combination of performance-driven features and a classic camouflage pattern built for the field.

The new AXIS 2 PRO Bottomland delivers the out-of-the-box performance hunters have come to expect from the AXIS 2 PRO while adding an ergonomic Mossy Oak Original Bottomland stock with enhanced texturing. The stock features a user-adjustable length of pull and a contoured pistol grip with ambidextrous palm swells for a more comfortable, customizable fit.

“The AXIS 2 PRO was designed to give hunters the features they need for reliable performance in the field without pushing the price point out of reach,” said Beth Shimanski, vice president of marketing at Savage. “The new Bottomland models add one of the most recognizable camouflage patterns in hunting to a rifle already packed with practical features, giving hunters another option that is ready for the range and the field.”

At the heart of the AXIS 2 PRO is Savage’s user-adjustable AccuTrigger™, along with adjustable length of pull and thread-in headspacing. The Bottomland models also feature a spiral-fluted and threaded barrel, a one-piece rail and an updated bolt handle with a sleek, ergonomic design.

Available in a broad selection of popular hunting calibers, the new AXIS 2 PRO Bottomland models include both right- and left-hand configurations. Chamberings are offered in:

5.56 NATO

.22 Creedmoor

.22-250 Rem.

6mm ARC

.243 Win.

6mm Creedmoor

6.5 Creedmoor

7mm-08 Rem.

.308 Win.

.338 ARC

.350 Legend

.400 Legend