Agilite just launched the new WIDE admin pouch which is optimized for MOLLE second layers to give extra low profile real estate.
See all the features here:
agilitegear.com/products/wide-admin-pouch
Remembering Frank R. Brownell III (1939 – 2025)
June 22nd, 2025
GRINNELL, Iowa (June 18, 2025) – Brownells sadly announces the death of long-time family patriarch Frank Brownell, who successively held the positions of President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board at Brownells.
Frank passed away in Grinnell, Iowa on June 18, 2025, after a lengthy illness. He was six days shy of his 86th birthday.
For nearly six decades, Frank’s passion, vision, and generosity shaped not only Brownells, but the entire firearms community. Friends and customers alike remember him greeting “long lines of friends” at SHOT Show and the NRA Annual Meetings, championing gunsmithing, and driving industry innovation.
“Frank was the kind of person who made you better just by being around him.” Pete Brownell, CEO of Brownells and Frank’s son.
A Life of Service and Contribution
Born June 24, 1939, in Montezuma, Iowa, the second child and only son of Brownells founder Bob and his wife Lois, Frank grew up in Iowa and became involved in both the family business and the American gun industry at an early age. Frank graduated magna-cum-laude with a degree in Advertising from the University of Iowa in 1961 before serving aboard the USS Caliente (AO-53) as a U.S. Navy reservist.
In 1965, he joined Brownells full-time, laying out Big Book Catalog #18, and soon helped publish the first Gunsmith Kinks book in 1969 under the name F. Brownell and Son.
Frank became President in 1983, CEO in 2007, and Chairman of the Board in 2012, guiding Brownells for more than 40 years.
From marketing the now-iconic Latigo Sling at the 1964 NRA convention to elevating gunsmithing as a respected profession, his influence can be seen in countless shops, ranges, and workbenches across America.
A Legacy of Character
Beyond titles and accolades, Frank was cherished for his kindness, integrity, and infectious enthusiasm. Frank Brownell was a Navy veteran, a business leader, and a stalwart supporter of our unique American rights guaranteed by the 2nd Amendment.
An industry innovator, he helped establish Brownells as a nationwide legacy retailer in the gunsmithing, gun parts, and firearms space. He helped advance the best model for working with and developing endemic industry media. He advocated for elevating gunsmithing to a respected profession and created new ways to support and develop the growth of gunsmithing, gun ownership, and gun culture.
A Life Remembered
Frank is survived by his three sons, Bob, Pete, and Matt Brownell, and their families. Service details will be shared once arrangements are finalized.
Friends, colleagues, and customers are encouraged to honor Frank by sharing memories, supporting aspiring gunsmiths, or simply spending time at the bench, just as he loved to do.
Vintage Combat Control Team Action
June 22nd, 2025
The Role of Smart Coated Fabrics in Next-Gen Battlefield Wearables and Defense Infrastructure
June 21st, 2025In modern defense ecosystems, coated fabrics have long played a foundational role. Traditionally employed for protective tents, uniforms, vehicle covers, and chemical-resistant apparel, these fabrics are typically enhanced with coatings such as polyurethane, PVC, or silicone to improve resistance to fire, water, and chemicals. However, recent advancements are redefining this segment, transforming coated fabrics into intelligent, adaptive components of the military supply chain. This shift aligns with the broader transition toward digital warfare and performance-optimized soldier systems, where smart coatings are poised to revolutionize protection and functionality. These changes are accelerating the evolution of the Coated Fabrics for Defense Market into a hub of innovation and strategic value.
Defining Smart Coated Fabrics
What makes a coated fabric “smart” isn’t its base material but the functional capability of its coating. This could include embedded sensors, nanomaterials, or reactive compounds designed to detect, communicate, or adapt. These functionalities create fabrics that can actively participate in defense operations, rather than passively endure them.
Examples include:
– Thermochromic coatings that change color based on temperature
– Electroconductive coatings that relay biometric data
– Fluorescent detection for exposure to biological or chemical threats
– Nanostructured coatings with self-healing capabilities
These innovations are often developed using advanced materials such as graphene, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and phase-change polymers, which are increasingly influencing the Coated Fabrics for Defense Market outlook.
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Real-World Applications in Defense
Smart coated fabrics are becoming instrumental across both soldier systems and field infrastructure. For instance, wearable fabrics with biometric sensors are now enabling commanders to monitor soldier vitals in real time. These systems can detect fatigue, dehydration, or stress and relay that data via wireless communication systems, improving situational awareness and medical response.
Meanwhile, infrastructure applications are expanding as well. Lightweight, heat-reflective tents coated with adaptive materials now provide better thermal insulation. EMI (electromagnetic interference) shielding fabrics protect mobile communication units from signal disruption in electronic warfare scenarios. These are not experimental—they’re being implemented in NATO field units and combat support facilities, further boosting the potential of the Coated Fabrics for Defense Market.
Use Case Highlights
Below are real-world implementations showcasing the potential of smart coated fabrics in defense:
– USA Army’s Warrior Web Program: Developing sensor-embedded suits that detect joint strain and prevent injury.
– Israeli Defense Forces: Utilizing nanotech coatings on tactical vests for chemical agent detection.
– Indian OFB (Ordnance Factories Board): Collaborating on smart uniforms that adjust thermal insulation in desert and Himalayan conditions.
– European Defense Agency Projects: Supporting camo coatings that adapt to surrounding infrared and visible light conditions.
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Market Drivers Fueling Smart Fabric Demand
Multiple forces are converging to elevate the role of smart-coated fabrics in defense strategies. The most notable include increased geopolitical tensions, a rise in chemical and biological warfare threats, and the broader movement toward digital integration in military operations. Defense procurement bodies are demanding multi-functional materials that reduce the logistical burden and enhance survivability in complex environments.
Additionally, with greater attention on soldier comfort and long-term injury prevention, wearable technologies are now embedded into fabric-based systems rather than external devices. The focus is on low-weight, durable, and integrated protection—qualities that smart coatings are uniquely positioned to deliver. These attributes are shaping the future of the Coated Fabrics for Defense Market as defense agencies seek value-added textiles.
Obstacles to Mass Adoption
Despite strong R&D momentum, smart coated fabrics face scalability and adoption challenges. Foremost among these is cost. Nanomaterial-infused coatings and embedded sensor grids significantly raise the cost per unit, making procurement difficult for lower-budget defense forces.
Purity and reliability are also concerns. Some coated fabrics face contamination or degradation in extreme climates, limiting their longevity. Additionally, power supply integration remains an unsolved issue for wearable electronics, particularly in remote or power-scarce combat zones.
Another barrier is standardization. There is currently no unified framework across NATO, BRICS, or other global blocs that governs performance benchmarks for smart-coated defense textiles. As such, cross-border procurement and integration remain complex and fragmented—an ongoing challenge for global expansion within the Coated Fabrics for Defense Market.
Regional Trends and Competitive Landscape
North America and Western Europe continue to dominate smart fabric innovation due to strong defense R&D funding and established military-industrial ecosystems. However, Asia-Pacific nations are rapidly closing the gap. China, South Korea, and India have launched targeted initiatives to localize advanced textile manufacturing for their armed forces, often supported by public-private R&D partnerships.
Textiles, Fabrics, Yarn & Fibres Industry Analysis: www.futuremarketinsights.com/industry-analysis/textiles-fabrics-yarn-and-fibres
The Middle East, with its extreme environments and growing defense budgets, is also emerging as a niche consumer for adaptive thermal fabrics and chemical-protective coatings. These trends are creating a multi-regional competitive ecosystem in the Coated Fabrics for Defense Market.
The Future of Coated Fabrics in Defense
As combat scenarios grow more asymmetric and technologically complex, coated fabrics will serve increasingly as both shield and sensor. The integration of AI for data interpretation, wearable computing, and real-time health diagnostics into fabrics is set to blur the line between clothing and equipment.
This transition won’t just change procurement contracts—it will redefine defense strategies around survivability, mobility, and intelligence. The Coated Fabrics for Defense Market is no longer confined to passive materials; it is evolving into a sector that delivers smart, data-ready, and mission-critical solutions for the battlefield of tomorrow.
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SIG SAUER Announces the ROMEO8T-AMR and JULIET3T-AMR System
June 21st, 2025NEWINGTON, N.H., (June 19, 2025) – SIG SAUER, industry leading manufacturer of cutting-edge firearms, optics, and ammunition announces its latest optic innovation, the ROMEO8T-AMR and JULIET3T-AMR System, featuring SIG SAUER’S all-new Automatic Modified Reticle (AMR) technology.
“Our products are engineered to exceed the demands of elite warfighters around the world and our latest optic innovation does just that,” said Andy York, President, Electro-Optics. “Our elite end-users expect innovative, battle-tested products like our new ROMEO8T-AMR and JULIET3T-AMR System. These innovative optics provides shooters the SIG SAUER precision they need in dynamic environments.”
Inspired by SIG SAUER’s original ROMEO8T red dot, the ROMEO8T-AMR™ is a powerhouse optic pushing the technological envelope while reducing overall size and weight by over 30% compared to traditional holographic sights.
Developed alongside the all-new JULIET3T-AMR™ micro magnifier, the ROMEO8T-AMR leverages SIG SAUER’s revolutionary Automatic Modified Reticle™ technology to instantly transition between user-selectable reticle configurations as the magnifier is engaged or disengaged. The speed and versatility of the patented AMR™ system allows shooters to maintain absolute precision while quickly transitioning between reticle configurations best suited for close-range engagements and mid-range engagements.
Despite its compact build, the ROMEO8T-AMR boasts a massive 40MM objective lens for unrivaled situational awareness, while the high-performance coatings and lens system deliver remarkable performance under night vision.
Engineered to exceed the demands of elite warfighters around the world, the ROMEO8T-AMR and JULIET3T-AMR system meet MIL-810-STD protocol, are IPX8 waterproof and fogproof, and fully covered by SIG SAUER’s Infinite Guarantee™.
Product Details:
AMR™ – Automatic Modified Reticle (Patented)
Massive 40MM High-Performance and Multi-Coated Lens
30% Smaller than Competitive Holographic Sights
Dedicated NV Override Control
50,000 Hour Runtime On CR123 Utilizing MOTAC™
MIL-810-STD Durability
IPX8 Waterproof and Fogproof Certified
Assembled in Oregon, USA
The ROMEO8T-AMR and JULIET3T-AMR system was previewed at SIG NEXT 2025, a one-of-a-kind innovation showcase and immersive product and brand experience that can only come from SIG SAUER, the defense contractor of the future.
The ROMEO8T-AMR and JULIET3T-AMR system is now shipping and available at retailers nationwide. To learn more, visit sigsauer.com.
WRANGB Hosts Arrival Ceremony for OA-1K Skyraider II
June 21st, 2025
WILL ROGERS AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Okla. —
The 137th Special Operations Wing held a welcome ceremony for the arrival of OA-1K Skyraider II aircraft to Will Rogers Air National Guard Base, June 07, 2025, Oklahoma City.
The Skyraider II is a cost-effective, versatile aircraft that will provide essential support for operations outlined in the 2025 Interim National Defense Strategy. WRANGB now serves as the home for the Skyraider II’s formal training unit under the 492nd Special Operations Wing.
“Seamless integration with total force partners has been the standard for the 137th Special Operations Wing,” said Col. Shelby Dreyer. “We are continuing that legacy as we usher in this Total Force Initiative alongside the 492nd Special Operations Wing to train for the multi-capable mission of the OA-1K Skyraider II.”
The ceremony introduced the Skyraiders II’s capabilities and mission set to 137 SOW Citizen Airmen. The Skyraider II is a new cost-effective crewed aircraft that supports geographically isolated Special Operations personnel in austere locations.
“The 137th SOW continues to build and preserve a force where human performance is our critical advantage – leaning into the advanced training and resource management that supports our preparedness in every environment, against every adversary,” said Dreyer. “With the partnership of our wings, this is the right time. Oklahoma is the right place.”
By SSgt Nicholas Swift
137th Special Operations Wing
Spiritus Systems Releases the EUD Bridge
June 20th, 2025The EUD Bridge is a purpose-built mounting solution designed to integrate your End User Device (EUD) seamlessly into your Chest Rig.
Constructed from highly durable and lightweight CURV thermoplastic composite material and Squadron fabric, the EUD Bridge securely mounts between your chest rig shoulder straps, providing a stable and comfortable platform for mission-critical ATAK devices.
The EUD Bridge features a tuck-tab and pull-tab design that allows you to mount it or remove it within seconds. In addition, there is a mounting plate kit included which allows for direct hard point mounting of a MPU5 PTT but also features slits for mounting PTTs with clips. The EUD Bridge comes with a bungee retention system that can be directly mounted to the bridge to keep devices secure to the chest.
Whether you’re part of a reconnaissance team, JTAC, orcontrolling advanced tech on the battlefield, the Spiritus Systems EUD Bridge ensures your digital tools are exactly where you need them.
The EUD Bridge is available now in the following colors: MultiCam, Ranger Green, Coyote Brown, and Black.
For more information visit: www.spiritussystems.com
SIG NEXT 25 – Royal Marines L143A2
June 20th, 2025
This is a little bit of an unexpected treat. I was able to fire the Royal Marines L143A2 rifle which were purchased a couple of years for the Future Commando Force operational concept under Project HAY, but not announced until March of this year.
It’s a SIG MCX carbine features 5.56 NATO 12.5″ barrel, but there’s also a 300 BLK variant also in service.
As you can see in the photo released by the Royal Marines, this is how it is equipped for maritime operations, with optic and magnifier and suppressor.
