SureFire

TNVC Promotes Chris Huber and Wendy Sanderson to Vice Presidents, Welcomes Ephraim Rogers to the Team!

April 17th, 2025

17 April, 2025, Redlands, California

As Tactical Night Vision Company continues to grow and expand in our 20th year as a leader in the night vision, thermal, and visual augmentation systems space, we are excited to announce our latest series of staff promotions as well as a new addition to the team!

As part of our growth, TNVC has established a formal Federal Programs Division and continuing to restructure our sales force and task organization to become an even more agile, responsive, and adaptable provider of critical visual augmentation systems and headborne systems and sensor / sensor support systems and capabilities to government and private customers alike, providing cradle-to-grave lifecycle support and focused, specialized subject matter expertise from decades of experience both as end-users and sales / procurement / distribution / acquisition programs in the federal and state and local government as well as commercial retail and wholesale sectors, and tied together by comprehensive education and support.

Effective immediately, Chris Huber and Wendy Sanderson will be promoted to Vice Presidents of Dealer / LE Sales and Federal Programs, respectively. Within these roles, both Chris and Wendy will take an even larger role in developing, managing, and overseeing TNVC’s business development strategy and long-term planning as well as robust program support across all channels, commercial, state & local, and federal government.

“These new changes and additions to the staff are designed to allow TNVC to continue to scale as a business, building on the last 20 years of success and experience within the night vision industry, supporting our customers in all sectors as well as deepening and continuing our relationships with technology developers—both established ones and new innovators, and program offices to match up requirements with capabilities and products and continue to bring the best possible VAS products and capabilities to our customers,” remarked Augustine Kim, TNVC COO. “These new VP positions are not just simple ‘sales’ positions, as both Chris and Wendy will be taking an active role in helping to ‘steer the ship’ and influencing not only what TNVC will look like moving into the future, but the whole Visual Augmentation Systems and capabilities space for years to come. We look forward to seeing what the future brings in a rapidly changing world, economy, technology outlook, and marketplace, and I could not ask for a better team to tackle the next 20 years and beyond with.”

Also joining TNVC as a new addition to the team is Ephraim Rogers, as Marketing, Education, and Communications Operations Manager (MECOM) who will coordinate and develop TNVC’s education, marketing, and communications strategy. “Once again, Ephraim’s not just going to be a ‘marketing guy,’” Kim explained. “TNVC’s communications strategy has always been incredibly complex, combining not just traditional marketing as in social media, product launches, et cetera; but also encompassing education and training programs and communications, including our coordination with manufacturers and partners to develop, provide feedback, and conduct testing and evaluation on new and emerging products that are in development.”

Please join us in congratulating Wendy, Chris, and welcoming Ephraim to the TNVC Team!

Wendy Sanderson, Vice President of Federal Programs

Wendy Sanderson joined TNVC in late-2023 from L3Harris Integrated Vision Solutions (IVS) Night Vision Sector after 15 years, having served as Director of Sales and BD Operations Manager among other roles within IVS’ Night Vision Sector and holds and MBA in Contracts Acquisition and Management. Since joining TNVC, Wendy has been greatly expanding TNVC’s DoD and Federal Sales/Contracts, working directly with federal agencies and program offices as well as distribution partners within the federal space.

Chrisa Huber, Vice President of Dealer and State & Local LE Sales

Chris Huber has been involved in the night vision industry since 2004, beginning his career in sales at Morovision, Inc., before joining TNVC in 2014 as the Director of Sales and helping to create an extensive dealer network as well as strong law enforcement sales programs to provide top-of-the-line night vision capabilities to law enforcement agencies and commercial customers alike, while also being in a rock band and helping to found and manage the popular Born Free motorcycle show.

Ephraim Rogers, Marketing, Education, and Communications Operations Manager

Ephraim Rogers joined TNVC officially in March, after completing the DoD’s SkillBridge program with TNVC and having recently retired after 25 years in United States Army and Army National Guard, having most recently served as the Command Sergeant Major for the National Guard’s Warrior Training Battalion (ABN) at Fort Benning, Georgia, overseeing all Pre-Ranger, Air Assault, Jumpmaster, Pathfinder, and all levels of Master Gunner courses for both Active and Reserve component forces. CSM Rogers (Ret.) brings extensive experience managing professional level training and education programs at a senior level, and his previous assignments have included being the Senior ARNG Enlisted Advisor for the Army Center of Initial Military Training (CIMT), as well as the Army National Guard Bureau, Muscatatuck Urban Training Center, Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, and the Professional Education Center in Little Rock, Arkansas, as well as extensive end-user experience, having been mobilized for combat duty for Operation Desert Spring, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Ephraim’s face will also not be new to many long-time SHOT Show attendees, where his oversized visage has emblazoned many a popular booth!

Please join us once again in offering a hearty congratulations to Chris and Wendy on their well-deserved promotions, and welcoming Ephraim to the TNVC Team!

TNVC Will be displaying at the 2025 NRA Annual Meeting in Atlanta, Georgia from April 25-27, 2025, and don’t forget to check out our IRSale (IRS)!

soldiersystems.net/2025/04/14/tnvc-irsale-irs-2025/

Founded in 2005, Tactical Night Vision Company (TNVC) is a Veteran-Owned small business which specializes in providing industry-leading visual augmentation systems, modified-COTS solutions, and systems integration as well as training, education, and life-cycle support to government and commercial customers alike.
For all inquiries please contact: marketing@tnvc.com

Army’s Advanced Manufacturing Revolutionizes Mortar System, Enhancing Soldier Safety

April 17th, 2025

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Ill. — In a significant leap forward for Soldier safety and operational effectiveness, the 120mm mortar system’s attenuating blast cone has undergone a transformative redesign.

“Our service members are the bedrock of our nation’s defense,” stated Col. Dave Guida, commander of Rock Island Arsenal-Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center. “They stand ready, modern and prepared to defeat any adversary. Equipping them with the best possible equipment is an imperative priority. This redesigned ABC is evidence of that commitment.”

The project, spearheaded by the Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence at RIA-JMTC, leverages the power of additive manufacturing to create a lighter, more efficient, cost effective and safer ABC. This innovation directly addresses concerns regarding head trauma and concussions associated with the legacy equipment, underscoring the Army’s unwavering commitment to equipping its soldiers with the most advanced technologies available.

“Collaboration was the cornerstone of this project,” explained Edward Flinn, director of the AM CoE. “We ensured it not only met, but exceeded expectations in terms of functionality, durability and ease of use in the field.”

The original eight-part ABC presented significant challenges for Soldiers in the field, contributing to fatigue and hindering maneuverability, especially in challenging terrain. Recognizing the need for improvement, the AM CoE embarked on a rigorous redesign process, initially streamlining the ABC to a two-part system and ultimately refining it to a four-part configuration based on extensive feedback. This iterative approach ensured the final design met the rigorous demands of real-world operations, balancing weight reduction with structural integrity and ease of maintenance.

“Additive manufacturing empowers us to push the boundaries of design,” Flinn elaborated. “We can create components that are simultaneously lighter, stronger and more adaptable to the ever-changing demands of the battlefield. This is a true game-changer for military equipment design and production and it’s happening right now at the RIA-JMTC AM CoE.”

The selection of titanium, renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance, further enhances the ABC’s performance. While the 3D-printed components are solid, the strategic use of titanium and the design freedoms afforded by additive manufacturing have resulted in an ABC that weighs less than half of its conventionally manufactured counterpart. This significant weight reduction, achieved without compromising structural integrity, enhances Soldier mobility and reduces fatigue, crucial factors in demanding operational environments. This highlights the power of AM to optimize performance not just through complex internal structures, but also through material selection and overall design efficiency.

Beyond the immediate benefits of a lighter, more efficient design, the AM process offers significant cost and time savings across the entire product lifecycle. Eliminating the need for expensive tooling and lengthy lead times associated with traditional manufacturing, AM enables rapid prototyping and on-demand production. This agility is crucial in responding to rapidly evolving operational needs and maintaining a decisive advantage in an increasingly complex global landscape.

“The ability to rapidly prototype and iterate designs using AM is transformative,” Guida emphasized. “It allows us to respond quickly to emerging threats and deliver solutions to the Warfighter at an unprecedented pace. This speed and flexibility are essential in maintaining leverage against any adversary.”

While the initial production run of 700 ABCs utilized traditional manufacturing methods for comparative analysis and to ensure a smooth transition, the AM CoE is poised to take over full production during the sustainment phase. This data-driven approach allows the Army to thoroughly evaluate the long-term cost-effectiveness and efficiency of AM, paving the way for wider adoption of this groundbreaking technology.

“RIA-JMTC, Tank-automotive and Armaments Command and Army Materiel Command work tirelessly across the Department of Defense to synchronize logistics, build supply chain resilience and achieve combat readiness goals,” Guida said. “A modernized organic industrial base, coupled with data-driven predictive and precision logistics, ensures we can provide the right parts and materiel to Soldiers when and where they need them. When the need arises for new, upgraded or modernized equipment, the skilled artisans of the OIB stand ready to deliver.”

Sustainment leaders are increasingly relying on data analytics and advanced information systems to accurately predict battlefield requirements, effectively connecting the foxhole to the factory. This focus on strategic readiness is essential for maintaining a prepared and responsive force. Continuous transformation ensures the Army can deliver trained, cohesive and lethal forces capable of meeting future challenges in complex operational environments.

“The redesigned ABC is an equipment upgrade that embodies the Army’s commitment to Soldier safety, technological advancement and a future-ready force prepared for any contingency,” Flinn said. “This initiative reinforces the principle that strategic readiness begins at home and that investing in advanced manufacturing and data-driven logistics is essential for maintaining a decisive edge on the future battlefield.”

By Kendall Swank

SK Customs Releases “SOLO LOBO”, Latest in Untamed Series

April 16th, 2025

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – April 11, 2025 – SK Guns®, the Nation’s only series-driven, limited-edition manufacturer of custom firearms, is proud to announce the release of “SOLO LOBO.” This fourth installment is the latest production in the series featuring the world’s deadliest predators.

SOLO LOBO translates to Lone Wolf, a symbol of strength and independence. A Lone Wolf is a wolf that has left its pack to roam independently. The Lone Wolf embodies resilience and solitude, often choosing to separate in search of a new territory, mate or better hunting opportunities.

“The Lone Wolf has become a powerful symbol in human culture,” said Simon Khiabani, owner and founder of SK Guns. “It is often associated with independence, mystery and self-reliance; it represents those who carve their own paths, unbound by societal norms.”

Physically, a Lone Wolf is just as strong as its pack-dwelling counterparts, often relying on stealth, endurance and strategic hunting techniques to thrive. While packs benefit from teamwork, a lone wolf compensates with cunning and patience, stalking prey carefully before striking at the perfect moment.

The top of the slide depicts a Lone Wolf’s open mouth revealing sharp fangs – capturing the essence of raw power, resilience and untamed spirit. Additionally, the top of the slide is adorned with the eyes of the moon, while the rear slide features a Lone Wolf howling at the moon.

The slide flats show a mirror image of a Lone Wolf lunging forward with its mouth open and fangs exposed in a fierce attack—its eyes locked onto its target with relentless focus.

A limited-edition production run of only 200 Colt 1911 Full-Size Government models chambered in .38 Super, the SOLO LOBO features a Colt royal blue polished finish on the slide and frame.

The pistol is covered in .999 pure Silver, the Colt logo decorates the rear left panel and the right is engraved with each gun’s unique issued series number. The production comes complete with a set of black pearl Kirinite® grips showing with the Silver Colt Rampart inserts.

Each SOLO LOBO also has an optional matching handcrafted Damascus knife available for purchase at an additional $800.00. These knives are designed by Bill Snyder of Snyder Knives. Snyder is an apprentice of Keith Murr, a master knife maker who trained under the legendary Bob Dozier. These Custom Modified Fighter style knives are hand forged in the USA and feature a matching highly polished Lone Wolf Kirinte handle with mosaic pins. Each blade will also come with a Herman Oak Leather sheath engraved with the production logo and the collectors gun number out of 200.

This production is available to purchase here for $2,900, and is estimated to begin shipping from June 2025.

SIG M17 with SIG ROMEO-M17 Red Dot Optic Selected as the Official Sidearm of the Texas Department of Public Safety

April 16th, 2025

NEWINGTON, N.H., (April 16, 2025) – SIG SAUER, Inc. is proud to announce the Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) is transitioning all their troopers to the SIG M17 pistol with a SIG ROMEO-M17 red dot optic.

“We are proud the Texas Department of Public Safety chose the SIG M17 as its official sidearm,” began Tom Jankiewicz, Executive Vice President, Law Enforcement Sales for SIG SAUER, Inc. “Having selected the ROMEO-M17 red dot optic, TXDPS conducted an exhaustive testing process, firing thousands upon thousands of rounds, and concluded that the SIG ROMEO-M17, optimized with the SIG M17 pistols, was the clear choice for their agency.”

The SIG M17, the official sidearm of the Texas Department of Public Safety, offers the performance and reliability of the U.S. Military M17, loaded with advanced X-series features. The SIG ROMEO-M17 red dot optic is the ultimate aiming solution, developed from the ground up specifically for the M17 and designed to withstand the rigors of the professional user.

“SIG SAUER is honored that the brave men and women of the Texas Department of Public Safety continue to trust our products to carry out their mission to protect and serve the citizens of the Lone Star state,” concluded Jankiewicz.

Visit sigsauer.com for complete specs and product information about the SIG M17 and SIG ROMEO-M17.

Dead Air to Display at 2025 TacOps North Expo – Booth 216

April 16th, 2025

Heber City, UT – Dead Air, a leader in the firearm suppressor and tactical accessories industry, announce its participation at the 2025 TacOps NorthConference, taking place April 16-17, 2025, in Verona, New York. Dedicated to advancing tactical training across the state, the New York Tactical Officers Association conference is expected a large gathering of law enforcement officers and SWAT professionals. Dead Air will be on-site at booth #216 to showcase its latest innovations in suppression technology.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore Dead Air’s hard-use suppressors, including the Sandman X, which incorporates the Triskelion™ Gas Management System™—a 3D-printed baffle system designed to reduce weight, enhance durability, and improve sound suppression.

“Our commitment to providing tactical teams with the highest-quality suppressors aligns with the NYTOA mission to bring consistency and excellence to training,” said Michael McKee, LE Sales for Dead Air. “The Sandman X is built for extreme conditions, ideal for semi-auto and full-auto 7.62 NATO rifles, and we’re proud to display its superior performance for first responder teams across New York.”

Dead Air representatives will be available throughout the event to answer questions, provide in-depth product insights, and discuss the full range of Dead Air silencers suitable for various law enforcement applications.

For more information, visit Dead Air Silencers.

Darley Releases New Firefighting Equipment Catalog

April 16th, 2025

Itasca, IL, April 15, 2025 – Darley has just released Firefighting Equipment Catalog #278! Specifically crafted for first responder professionals, this redesigned catalog features over 200 pages of innovative solutions from Darley and our trusted partners, all showcased with dynamic and engaging imagery.

The new catalog is also enhanced with more references to our online shopping experience at shop.darley.com, making it easier than ever to quickly find expanded product information and make informed purchasing decisions.

Amanda Whitlaw, Creative & Brand Director remarked, “The Darley catalog is iconic in our industry, with our first responder customers often referencing their catalog collection for years to come. We’ve listened and have redesigned our catalog with their needs in mind. We are excited to share this incredible tool with them, ensuring they have access to the best equipment and solutions available.”

This release marks a significant step forward in Darley’s mission to passionately serve the world’s first responder and tactical communities by providing high quality, safe and innovative products with unmatched commitment and service. Explore the new catalog today and request your printed copy at shop.darley.com/firefighting-equipment-catalog.

Mehler Systems Presents Full-Spectrum Tactical Solutions at SOFINS 2025

April 16th, 2025

FULDA, GERMANY (10.04.2025)

Mehler Systems, together with its brands MehlerProtection, UF PRO, and Lindnerhof, successfully participated in SOFINS 2025—the premier European exhibition for Special Operations Forces. Held from April 1 to 3 at the military base in Martignas-sur-Jalle, France, the event brought together elite tactical units, defense industry leaders, and cutting-edge solution providers to engage in dialogue and present the next generation of mission-ready equipment.

Throughout the exhibition, Mehler Systems showcased an integrated portfolio designed to meet the complex requirements of modern mission profiles. Mehler Protection presented a range of ballistic protection systems developed for high-threat environments. Among them was the ExoM Up-Armoured Exoskeleton, offering full-body protection up to VPAM 8 while maintaining operator mobility. The M.U.S.T. System demonstrated the flexibility of modular body armour platforms, and the Omega Helmet Line delivered lightweight head protection. The brand also displayed a comprehensive array of ballistic panels, vests, and plate carriers tailored for the specific needs of special operations forces.

UF PRO introduced a selection of tactical garments engineered for performance across diverse climates and terrains. The Striker TT Combat Shirt and Pants offered breathable, durable solutions for hot and humid conditions, while the Monsoon XT Gen.2 Jacket and Pants provided dependable weather resistance in harsh, wet environments. For cold-weather operations, the AcEGen.2 Winter Combat Shirt delivered a balance of insulation and moisture regulation. The Striker X Gen.2 Combat Pants, designed for rugged terrain, completed the lineup with enhanced durability and mobility.

Lindnerhof featured its latest innovations in modular load-carrying systems and tactical gear. Visitors explored plate carriers, chest rigs, pouches, and belts—each developed for high adaptability, streamlined usability, and lightweight construction. A highlight of the exhibit was The Beast, Lindnerhof’s heavy load-carrying system built to manage extreme weight while maintaining comfort and stability during prolonged missions.

SOFINS 2025 once again proved to be a key engagement opportunity for Mehler Systems to connect directly with international defense professionals and reinforce its role as a trusted provider of integrated protective and tactical systems. The event underscored the group’s continued commitment to supporting those who serve with mission-focused solutions built on performance, protection, and operational reliability.

For more information about upcoming events, visit: mehler-systems.com/events

Irregular Warfare: U.S. Army’s IW Doctrine

April 16th, 2025

I regularly find myself initially confused during conversations regarding IW, listening for cues as to whether others are mentioning Irregular Warfare or Information Warfare. Having practiced both, often simultaneously, it leads my mind to wander in various directions.

That’s one of our biggest weaknesses in the national security establishment, terminology. We often find ourselves speaking past one another as we attempt to use various buzzwords to gain common ground.

This video is about Irregular Warfare. Below is the description:

Currently, the U.S. Army’s Irregular Warfare (IW) doctrine is being reviewed and updated by the Combined Arms Doctrine Directorate at Fort Leavenworth, KS. This film is part of that ongoing discussion and highlights some of the most basic and important parts of current IW doctrine that should remain in place, while suggesting some needed changes as well.

The character and form of war are constantly changing, yet its fundamental nature remains the same. Though Great Power Competition is now our primary national security challenge – a departure from conducting almost two decades of continuous irregular war against violent extremist organizations worldwide – the requirement for mastery of irregular warfare persists. Far from abandoning these critical competencies, we will sharpen these capabilities for application against peer competitor, nation-state adversaries. – 2020 Irregular Warfare Annex to the National Defense Strategy

IW Reality: Conventional forces have, and always will have, a role in IW across a variety of missions, and a range of military activities

IW Myth: Irregular Warfare (IW) is Counterterrorism (CT), CT is Special Operations Forces (SOF), therefore IW is SOF.