SureFire

Eyeviation Unveils VCAT – Virtual Cognitive – Aware Trainer: The First AI Driven Firearms Instructor that Guarantees Significant Technique and Results Improvement in Less Than a 15-Minute Micro-Training Session

January 9th, 2025

The system and technology are already deployed by the Israeli Air Force, Elite IDF special units, and security response teams

Shot Show, Jan 21-24, 2025, Las Vegas, Booth # 41754 (BALCO Defense)

January 08, 2025, Eyeviation, a pioneering startup specializing in Human-Aware Artificial Intelligence, proudly unveils VCAT (Virtual Cognitive-Aware Trainer), a transformative AI-powered virtual instructor redefining firearms training worldwide. With a bold promise to significantly improve trainees’ shooting capabilities in just 15 minutes, VCAT is already operational with selected Israeli Defence Forces units and security response teams.

Utilizing a proprietary cognitive analytics engine developed with algorithms originally designed for fighter jet pilot training and enriched by performance data from elite special forces operatives, VCAT processes eye-tracking and other sensory data from off-the-shelf VR/AR wearables to deliver personalized and adaptive training based on real-time motoric, visual, and cognitive insights. The platform leverages AI-driven insights to analyze movement patterns, providing immediate biofeedback and immersive 3D visualizations.

The system’s innovative design allows a single operator with basic shooting and operational knowledge to oversee up to five trainees simultaneously. This scalability transforms operators into effective shooting instructors, addressing key challenges in the industry, such as rising ammunition costs, a shortage of shooting lanes and professional instructors, and limited training hours.

VCAT offers unmatched cost-effectiveness with virtually no setup requirements, enabling efficient micro-training sessions that deliver measurable results anytime, anywhere. By significantly reducing costs associated with installation, logistics, and ammunition, VCAT redefines modern training efficiency.

In shooting ranges, VCAT provides ammunition-free warm-up and tactical preparation sessions, helping users effectively prepare for live-fire training. Next step is to feature personalized live-fire recommendations based on performance data to optimize skill development.

“VCAT represents a revolutionary approach to training technology and the human-machine relationship,” says Or Landwer, CEO of Eyeviation. “By decoding human cognitive behaviours and enabling the machine to understand the trainee, our system efficiently processes data to deliver ultra-personalized and adaptive training sessions in real-time.”

“Our vision is to create the world’s best autonomous firearms trainers—accessible to everyone and designed to adapt in real-time to each trainee’s needs—delivering unmatched results efficiently and helping individuals reach their full potential faster than ever,” Landwer adds.

TacJobs – OTTE Gear Seeks Government Sales Manager

January 9th, 2025

OTTE Gear is growing, and we’re looking for a dedicated Sales Manager to drive our Government and Commercial/Wholesale sales channels.

Key Responsibilities:

– Build and manage relationships with Government buyers and wholesale partners.

– Drive sales in both Government and wholesale channels with a focus on growth.

– Work independently to meet and exceed sales goals while providing bi-weekly updates and progress reports.

Key Qualifications:

– Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and highly organized with excellent follow-through.

– Proven experience and understanding of the Government buying process.

– Experience in wholesale sales and account management.

Location: Remote or based out of our NJ HQ.

Travel: Required.

Compensation: Base + commission + expenses, based on experience.

Join the OTTE Gear team and help us expand into new territories. Send your resume to govsales@ottegear.com

Meet With BE Meyers & Co Inc at SHOT Show

January 9th, 2025

B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. is a US Defense Technology Manufacturer specializing in advanced photonics solutions for military, law enforcement, consumer, and aerospace applications. In our Redmond, WA facility our ISO 9001:2015 production operations specialize in premier visible, near infrared and out-of-band laser marking and illumination systems, which serve end-users in 38 nations worldwide.

Our Defense Systems as well as Integrated Systems product catalogs are here: bemeyers.com/catalogs

As a privately held, Veteran-operated, second-generation US Small Business in our 50th Year in Business, we are a true Made in America story, from the back-of-the-napkin sketch to the final product out the door happening at our Redmond, WA headquarters. We appreciate your support as we work to evolve critical Defense Technology, create jobs in Washington State, and reenergize American Manufacturing.

SHIELD Sights Announces Enclosed Emitter Advanced Mini Sight and AMSc Compact Red Dot Sights

January 9th, 2025

For Immediate Release: Crewkerne England – Pioneer in red dot sight manufacturing and design, SHIELD Sights announces the Advanced Mini Sight (AMS) and AMSc as the latest advancement in mini sight technology. The AMS and AMSc are now available worldwide through SHIELD Sights and participating dealers.

The AMS and AMSc (compact) are fully enclosed pistol sights that share the standard SHIELD footprint and maintain a co-witness with standard height iron sights. The AMS Line series of sights combine the best features of the military-proven SIS enclosed carbine sight and RMSw pistol optic to create a compact yet fully sealed pistol sight. This combination integrates the patented no-click adjustment mechanism, 3 auto brightness settings, 12 manual brightness settings, and NGV compatibility.

The all-aluminium frame houses 23mm x 17mm (AMS) and 19mm x 16mm (AMSc) all-glass objective lens, features an integrated rear peep sight, and a mounting interface for fitting aftermarket accessories like a roll cage, lights, lasers, or protective lens covers. The housing is also nitrogen-purged and waterproof to depths of 30 feet for 30 minutes.

Weighing only 37g, 1.3 oz (battery included), the AMS and AMSc boast a calculated battery life of 20,000hr with CR2032 battery on manual level 7 setting. The side battery compartment is easily accessible and capable of using CR2025, CR2032, and CR2050 batteries.

Available models

AMS 4MOA
AMS 8MOA
AMS Multi Reticle ( 2MOA, 2MOA + 65MOA Ring, 8MOA, 8MOA + 65MOA Ring, 8MOA Horseshoe, and 8MOA Horseshoe + 65MOA Ring )

AMSc 4MOA
AMSc 8MOA

Features include AMS

–       Mounts to Standardized SHIELD footprint

–       Co-witness to standard iron sights

–       Large crystal clear 1x Glass lens

–       Weighing only 34g, 1.2 oz ( without battery ).

–       12 stage manual brightness adjustment, including 3 NVG settings.

–       3 stage auto brightness adjustments

–       20,000 hours battery life calculated using 2MOA LED on setting 7 using CR2032 Battery.

–       Uses CR2025, CR2032, or CR2050 batteries

–       Nitrogen purged Aerospace Grade Aluminium housing

–      Submersible to 30 feet for 30 minutes.

Features include AMSc

–       Mounts to Standardized SHIELD footprint

–       Co-witness to standard iron sights

–       Large crystal clear 1x Glass lens

–       Weighing only 21g, 0.75 oz ( without battery ).

–       20,000 hours battery life calculated using 4MOA LED using CR2032 Battery.

–       Uses CR2025, CR2032 or CR2050 batteries

–       Nitrogen purged Aerospace Grade Aluminium housing

–        Submersible to 30 feet for 30 minutes.

MSRP AMS: $599.99
MSRP AMSc: $569.99

www.shieldsights.com

AFSOC Accepts Final MC-130J

January 9th, 2025

Marietta, GA – Maj. Gen. Justin Hoffman, Deputy Commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, attended a delivery milestone on Dec 13, 2024 in Marietta, Georgia for the command’s final MC-130J Commando II.  The fly-away ceremony commemorated the final stage of Lockheed Martin’s aircraft production for the MC-130J program and last handover to the Air Force.

“For decades, Lockheed Martin has consistently delivered critical capabilities for Air Commandos in a timely and effective manner,” said Hoffman. “As we continue in an era of strategic competition, we will continue to develop platforms to address future needs and integrate new capabilities.”

The first MC-130J was delivered in September 2011 to Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico. It first deployed in March 2013 to Afghanistan and supported over 400 missions, flying more than 2,000 hours, and moving an estimated 12,000 passengers and 9.4 million pounds of cargo.

The C-130J served as the recapitalization solution for AFSOC, modernizing 40-year-old legacy AC and MC fleets providing advanced avionics, navigation, and survivability features to enhance Special Operations mobility and strike.

“AFSOC’s receipt of the final MC-130J culminates an over fifteen-year effort to recapitalize and re-baseline the Special Operations C-130 fleet,” said Col. T. Justin Bronder, Special Operations Command PEO Fixed Wing. “This delivery marks both the end of this effort and the beginning of a new era; we will continue to relentlessly evolve AFSOC’s C-130s to ensure these aircraft possesses capabilities to advance our future force.”

Known as the Commando II, the MC-130J flies infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply of special operations forces by airdrop or airland as well as air refueling missions.

The final MC-130J will be delivered to the 58th Special Operations Wing at Kirtland AFB in New Mexico to train future AFSOC Air Commandos in the formal training unit.

By AFSOC Public Affairs

The Next Step for the Artillery Plant in Lithuania: Rheinmetall, EPSO-G Invest and Girait?s Ginkluot?s Gamykla Officially Sign Partnership Agreement

January 8th, 2025

The project of the German-Lithuanian artillery plant in Baisogala continues to move forward. On 20 December 2024, representatives of the German defence technology company Rheinmetall, the Lithuanian energy transmission and exchange group EPSO-G, the EPSO-G company EPSO-G Invest and the Lithuanian company Girait?s ginkluot?s gamykla signed a partnership agreement. This regulates the acquisition of shares in the company Rheinmetall Defence Lietuva, which will build the artillery shell manufacturing plant for 155-mm artillery shells.

The agreement stipulates that Rheinmetall will hold 51 percent of the shares in Rheinmetall Defence Lietuva. 48 percent will be owned by EPSO-G Invest and 1 percent by Girait?s ginkluot?s gamykla.

“At the end of November, we signed a contract for the lease of a land plot for the future factory in the Radviliškis district and the purchase of 155 mm ammunition. With the signed agreement with our Lithuanian partners, we have completed another very important stage and will now plan the construction of the new factory and prepare it for operation together,” says Armin Papperger, Chairman of the Rheinmetall executive board.

“Lithuania’s energy independence and security are inseparable from each other and these are the main strategic directions of the EPSO-G group. In this project, we will use our accumulated experience in implementing strategic infrastructural energy and security projects,” says Tomas Varneckas, CEO of EPSO-G Invest.

According to Violeta Kaš?tien?, interim manager of the Girait?s ginkluot?s gamykla, the involvement of the Girait? Armaments Factory in this project is a significant step, opening up new opportunities for cooperation with one of the world’s leaders in the defense sector. “This partnership project not only strengthens our competencies and role in the Lithuanian defense industry, but also contributes to ensuring the country’s security interests. From an economic point of view, this is a targeted development step, strengthening the potential of the Lithuanian defense industry and promoting its further development,” says V. Kaš?tien?.

The plant near Baisogala is expected to start operations in two years period and, once completed, will be capable of producing tens of thousands of 155 mm calibre artillery shells annually. According to the preliminary calculations total investments into the facility may reach around €260 million. The plant is expected to create at least 150 new direct jobs in the region. 

PROOF Research Names Richard Hunter as New CEO

January 8th, 2025

Visionary leader to drive aerospace and defense growth with proven military-approved Carbon Fiber Technology.

Columbia Falls, Mont. (January 2025) – PROOF Research®, the global leader in composite technology, is proud to announce the appointment of Richard Hunter as its new Chief Executive Officer. With over 25 years of leadership in the aerospace, defense, and industrial manufacturing sectors, Hunter brings a wealth of experience to the company, poised to accelerate growth in its aerospace and defense markets while continuing to innovate in the commercial firearms space for which PROOF Research has built its legacy.

Hunter joins PROOF Research following a successful tenure as CEO of Eaglepicher Technologies, where he spearheaded growth initiatives by building high-performance teams and implementing transformative organizational strategies. Previously, he served as President of L3 Technologies’ Defense Electronic Systems division, where he led the integration of four distinct divisions into a unified entity, delivering synergies in manufacturing and business development.

As an advocate for innovation and operational excellence, Hunter’s leadership is expected to bolster PROOF Research’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions, including their patented match-grade carbon fiber barrels – the only carbon fiber barrels approved for use by the U.S. military.

With its industry-leading advanced composite products already trusted by the military, including for platforms such as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and the B2 Stealth Bomber, PROOF Research is poised to expand its industry-leading firearm, composite technologies into more precise and complex systems utilized in the aerospace and defense markets.

“Joining PROOF Research represents an extraordinary opportunity to harness the company’s unparalleled expertise in advanced composites to address the evolving needs of the aerospace and defense industries,” said Hunter. “The team’s ability to merge next-gen aerospace materials with precision firearms technology sets a new standard for innovation. I look forward to working alongside this talented group to expand PROOF’s reach and capabilities.”

Find out more about PROOF Research barrels and rifles at proofresearch.com.

TacJobs – Green Beret Foundation Seeks Chief Development & Marketing Officer

January 8th, 2025

JOB TITLE:      Chief Development & Marketing Officer

JOB TYPE:        Full-Time, Exempt

REPORTS TO:  President & CEO

LOCATION:       Hybrid* Position With Travel Required

* This Position is Strongly Desired to Be Within Regular Commutable Distance of the Greater Boston Area

Green Beret Foundation is the premier nonprofit that stands with all generations of U.S. Army Special Forces Soldiers, known as Green Berets, as well as  their families, caregivers, and survivors, to reduce the burden of all of life’s transitions through curated programs and services to meet their emotional, physical, social, and financial health needs.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Chief Development & Marketing Officer (CDMO) will be directly responsible for creating, leading, and implementing an integrated resource development and marketing strategy that strengthens The Green Beret Foundation’s visibility, stakeholder engagement, financial resources, and overall impact. The position is responsible for forging new relationships, maintaining and growing existing relationships, and leading efforts to build and manage a high-performing development and marketing team. Serving as a trusted advisor, the CDMO plays a pivotal role in supporting the President & CEO on seven- and eight-figure gift solicitations while embracing and advancing the mission of The Green Beret Foundation.

The role encompasses fundraising, event management, marketing, strategic planning, and organizational leadership responsibilities. The officer will oversee development, communications and marketing strategies, achieving sustainable revenue growth and increase the organization’s brand awareness. Acting as an internal advisor to the CEO and Board, the officer will ensure all strategic initiatives align with the organization’s mission, goals, and standards.

As a member of the Executive Team, the CDMO collaborates with the President & CEO, Chief of Staff, and other senior leaders to provide strategic and operational management. Serve as a thought leader and strategic advisor in advancement of the Green Beret Foundation mission and operation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategy and Mission Advancement

Lead the development and execution of the organization’s strategic plan, adhering to the vision set by the President, CEO, and Board of Directors.

Collaborate with the CEO to create and implement an organizational operating plan.

Act as a key advisor to the CEO and Board on trends in the philanthropic landscape, competitive intelligence, and external risks and opportunities.

Facilitate strategy execution by fostering collaboration across departments and ensuring consistent communication.

Develop organizational metrics and a dashboard to evaluate performance, impact, and overall effectiveness.

Lead a culture that embraces and reflects the mission of The Green Beret Foundation, ensuring alignment in all organizational initiatives. 

Revenue Generation and Development

Lead efforts and individually raise $4 million annually, scaling to $6–8 million within three years, through individual, corporate, foundation, and public sector funding.

Collaborate with the CEO on high-level gift solicitations, with a focus on securing transformative seven- and eight-figure gifts.

Design and implement a framework for individual giving, expanding donor pipelines and increasing sustainable revenue.

Build and grow a comprehensive development team, recruiting top talent and creating a high-performing, mission-driven culture.

Oversee all aspects of the fundraising operation including but not limited to CCV partnerships, individual and major giving, grants & scholarships, foundation giving, strategic and community events and day to day fundraising operations.

Leverage innovative fundraising strategies, including technology-driven solutions, digital campaigns, and online engagement tools.

Create and manage capital campaign strategies, working closely with the Board and CEO.

Ensure fundraising activities and outcomes are aligned with operating needs and strategic priorities.

Marketing and Communications

Oversee marketing and branding strategies to elevate the visibility and public understanding of The Green Beret Foundation’s mission.

Ensure cohesive messaging across all communication platforms, including print, digital, and social media.

Partner with the marketing team to develop creative, high-impact campaigns that resonate with key audiences, stakeholders, and supporters.

Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of marketing and fundraising materials, making data-driven adjustments to maximize engagement.

Work on close cooperation with the program & services team, as well as other key disciplines in the organization to ensure marketing and communication strategies and tactics are aligned with and support mission and operating needs.

Board and Senior Staff Leadership

Collaborate with the CEO, Board, and Executive Team to create and implement an advancement strategy that aligns with organizational goals.

Serve as an ambassador for the organization, articulating the mission to external audiences and cultivating relationships with key stakeholders.

Support the Board and senior staff in cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding gifts and partnerships.

Provide training and mentorship for Board members and senior staff in best practices for fundraising and relationship-building.

Develop a deep commitment to the mission of the Green Beret Foundation.

Internal Management and Infrastructure

Recruit, train, and mentor development, marketing, and advancement staff.

Manage day-to-day operations of the team, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.

Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and reporting for the development and marketing team, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Foster collaboration across departments to create a cohesive and unified organizational culture.

Partner with finance and accounting staff to maintain efficient financial tracking and reporting processes.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position oversees all Development, Marketing, and Advancement staff.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

12 years progressive experience in development with a strategic focus of which 3-5 years experience relates to strategic communications and marketing.

Experience within a nonprofit organization within a military family support services environment or healthcare organization preferred.

Experience working at all levels, from community members and line staff to executives, Board Members and major donors and representatives of complex organizations.

Proven leadership skills and experience building a high-performing team while maximizing outcomes while providing the highest level of mission-impact and support.

Strong collaborator with interest and ability to build relationships at all levels internally and externally.

Proficient knowledge of development and marketing/communications applications and tools, with position-relevent knowledge of Microsoft applications and complex CRM and donor management systems. Blackbaud experience strongly preferred.

Experience in developing presentations and analytics related to position responsibilities and outcomes.

Strong written and verbal communication skiils with ability to communicate at all levels and in a wide variety of formats and audiences.

Skillful navigation skills with strong executive presence and professional demeanor.

Understanding of and/or exposure to military culture and the unique challenges faced by veterans and active-duty service members.

Demonstrated ability to build and maintain partnerships with external stakeholders.

Experience in budgeting, financial management and resource allocation.

Demonstrated experience and competencies in critical ares related to the position including, but not limited to:

Customer and team focus

Ethics, values and integrity

Strategic ability

Outcome orientation

Interpersonal savvy and team building

Subject matter expertise in essential elements of position responsibilities

EDUCATION:

Bachelor’s Degree in business, fundraising, communications, public relations ore related field or directly equivalent experience. Masters Degree strongly preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The role requires regular talking, hearing, sitting, and occasional lifting of up to 30 pounds. Manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination are needed for high-volume keyboard input and data entry.

WORKING HOURS & TRAVEL:

The CDMO Position works a 40-hour week.  Some evening and weekend hours will be needed on occasion to meet the needs of the Green Beret Foundation community and the strategic revenue growth plan for the Foundation. Travel is primarily regional but will from time to time include attendance at key events and meetings throughout the United States, overnight travel.  The CDMO position is strongly desired to be within regular commutable distance of the greater Boston Area. 

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:

This position will report directly to the President & CEO, who will develop a set of performance objectives in partnership with the CDMO.  The President & CEO shall conduct the Development Coordinator’s performance reviews.

The Green Beret Foundation seeks a visionary leader committed to honoring and advancing the legacy of Green Berets while fostering a robust culture of philanthropy and innovation.  Green Beret Foundation is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. Green Beret Foundation participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law. Green Beret Foundation is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities. Green Beret Foundation is a drug-free workplace.

Apply here.