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Thyrm Launches Two New SwitchBack Flashlight Accessories

March 4th, 2025

Sunnyvale, CA – March 3, 2025 – Thyrm, a leading innovator in tactical and everyday carry gear, today announced the release of two new additions to its popular SwitchBack line of flashlight accessories: the SwitchBack 3.0 Duty and the SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry. These innovative accessories enhance the functionality and grip of tactical flashlights, providing users with improved light retention and allowing their hands to remain free for other critical tasks.

The SwitchBack 3.0 Duty is built for rugged use and optimal performance in demanding environments. Its larger diameter ring is compatible with patrol gloves, while its heavy-duty construction ensures impact resistance. Additional traction features provide a secure grip even when wet, and a shortened clip improves pouch compatibility. A full-size lanyard hole accommodates 550 paracord. Like all SwitchBack products, the Duty mounts securely between the light’s tailcap and body.

The SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry is designedfor discreet carry. A steel wire clip provides a low visual profile and a premium feel.Users can select from two clip heights,allowing for a customized ride height in the pocket and enhanced access to the tailcap switch. Its slim ring enables users to engage the SwitchBack ring even when positioned below the pocket opening.

“We are thrilled to introduce our two new SwitchBack models, each crafted to address the unique needs of our varied customer base,” said Andrew Frazier, CEO of Thyrm. “The Duty offers exceptional durability and functionality for tactical professionals, while the Deep Carry provides a discreet and ergonomic option for everyday carry and covert operations. Both products are proudly manufactured in the USA.”

Key Features and Benefits:

SwitchBack 3.0 Duty:

• Larger diameter feature ring for use with gloves

• Heavy-duty construction for impact resistance

• Additional traction features for secure grip

• Shortened clip for improved pouch compatibility

• Full-size lanyard hole

• Secure mounting between tailcap and body

• Made in the USA

SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry:

• Slim finger ring for discreet carry

• Additional ring traction features for enhanced grip

• Steel wire clip for low visual signature and premium feel

• Two-position clip for customized carry and improved switch access

• Secure mounting between tailcap and body

• Made in the USA

Target Audience:

• Duty: Military, law enforcement, search and rescue teams.

• Deep Carry: Civilians, law enforcement (plain clothes), military (covert operations).

Pricing:

SwitchBack 3.0 Deep Carry – MSRP $24.99

SwitchBack 3.0 Duty – MSRP $19.99

Posted in Advertiser, Lights, Press Release | 3 Comments »

Ermine – Rheinmetall’s New Lightweight Hybrid Vehicle Family for Modern Armed Forces

March 4th, 2025

Rheinmetall is showing its tactical small vehicle family Ermine for the first time at the Enforce Tac. It represents a new generation of tactical mobility, combining tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid). Operational creativity is at the core Ermine’s design. Its features enable it to act as an effective force multiplier. Ermine can operate remotely controlled and is prepared for autonomy.

The modular Ermine family currently consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad. Various 4×4 and 6×6 variants are available. All vehicles are based on the same diesel-electric hybrid drivetrain and base platform. This gives Ermine maximum modularity with unrivalled agility. Thanks to the hybrid technology, up to one ton of payload, a range of more than 1,000 kilometres and a top speed of 90 km/h are possible, depending on the vehicle’s configuration. Up to four Ermine vehicles can be transported by cargo helicopters such as the CH-47 or CH-53.

The Ermine vehicles can be configured for various purposes, including reconnaissance & liaison, special operations, anti-tank, weapon carriers,
MedEvac or generator function. At Enforce Tac 2025, Rheinmetall showcased a 4×4 quad with the ROSY smoke/obscurant system and special operation forces equipment. One element is the Mobile Mission Pod (MMP, which also made its debut at Enforce Tac.)

The MMP is designed to conduct standoff reconnaissance and engage enemy forces using small UAVs. Developed primarily for special operations forces, it enables maximum effectiveness behind enemy lines. Thanks to its long standby time and remote operability in conjunction with artificial intelligence (AI), the MMP is designed to be able to operate against enemy forces long after it has been deployed to the battlefield. The MMP combines the expertise of existing products as well as current technologies and experiences from current conflicts in a new product that is outstanding in its capabilities. Thanks to its high degree of automation, AI support and standalone design, it significantly expands the mission portfolio of armed forces, enabling missions that were previously considered impossible.

The Ermine vehicles are furthermore characterised by high mobility in almost any terrain and can also be driven completely silent thanks to their electric drive. If the vehicles are not used for tactical mobility, they can be used as a mobile energy source. The Ermine family can therefore significantly increase the operational value of armed forces.

The Ermine technology was developed in the Netherlands by the start-up company REEQ – a subsidiary of Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. since March 2024 – and is being produced there. The acquisition of REEQ enables Rheinmetall to serve the Dutch and European market in the field of light tactical mobility, both manned and unmanned, in combination with a microgrid – and with short delivery times. Thereby Rheinmetall’s industrial strength and the innovative power of a start-up complement each other. Within the Rheinmetall Group, REEQ retains its status as a start-up in the field of development. The further development and serial production of these vehicles will also take place in the Netherlands.

Posted in International, Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on Ermine – Rheinmetall’s New Lightweight Hybrid Vehicle Family for Modern Armed Forces

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Renames Fort Moore to Fort Benning

March 4th, 2025

Today Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth signed a memorandum renaming Fort Moore in Georgia to Fort Benning. The new name pays tribute to Corporal (CPL) Fred G. Benning, who was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his extraordinary heroism in action during World War I with the U.S. Army in France in 1918. This change underscores the installation’s storied history of service to the United States of America, honors the warfighter ethos, and recognizes the heroes who have trained at the installation for decades and will continue to train on its storied ranges.

Posted in Army, Press Release | 15 Comments »

General Atomics Acquires North Point Defense

March 3rd, 2025

SAN DIEGO – 03 March 2025 – General Atomics (GA) today announced the strategic acquisition of North Point Defense, Inc. (NPD), a leading provider of Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) exploitation software and sensor integration, by General Atomics Integrated Intelligence, Inc. (GA-III), formerly known as General Atomics Commonwealth Computer Research, Inc. This acquisition enhances GA’s capabilities in the rapidly evolving SIGINT field, positioning the company to deliver advanced ISR solutions for air, sea, ground, and space platforms.

From concept to deployment, NPD delivers AI/ML-based autonomous signal processing and data dissemination solutions providing real-time actionable intelligence, supporting tactical and national mission priorities. “Joining GA represents an incredible opportunity to enhance our impact in delivering cutting-edge SIGINT solutions in support of national and tactical users,” said Bruce Benenati, President of NPD. “As part of a mission-focused organization with a proven track-record in tactical intelligence across the DoD and IC, we can accelerate innovation and deployment at scale. The integration gives our team access to unmatched operational expertise, resources, and a broader customer base. Together, we are poised to deliver even greater capabilities to those who depend on us in the field.”

GA-III is committed to providing a comprehensive suite of “out-of-the-box” hardware and software tools to meet mission requirements and expand the innovative intelligence capabilities within the GA group of companies. “The integration of NPD technologies into a division of GA-III is a strategic shift, enhancing GA’s ability to innovate rapidly and provide greater value to customers with end-to-end ISR solutions that are more efficient, effective, and technologically advanced.” said Brian Ralston, President of GA-III.

Baird served as the exclusive financial adviser and Miles & Stockbridge acted as legal counsel to North Point Defense on the transaction.

Posted in CEMA, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on General Atomics Acquires North Point Defense

Enforce Tac 25 – Aku Sentinel Low

March 3rd, 2025

Aku exhibited several new footwear models during last week’s Enforce Tac in Germany.

The Sentinel is offered as Full, Mid, and Low versions, both with GTX, but there’s also a non-GORE-TEX lined low model.

The shoe is made from a Microfiber upper and incorporates quick lace with a lace pocket and features a toe cap, and reinforced ankle, along with the Aku Tenuta grip sole and EVA mid-sole with nylon shank and anti-puncture fabric. Manufactured to EN 20347: 2022.

Others shown can be seen below. From the center, clockwise are the Sentinel Low, Selvatica Tactical Mid GTX, Selvatica Tactical GTX, Flyrock T, and Sentinel Mid GTX.

All are offered in Coyote and Black.

www.aku.com

Posted in Boots, Enforce Tac | Comments Off on Enforce Tac 25 – Aku Sentinel Low

Enforce Tac 25 – Helikon-Tex Goes Hawaiian

March 3rd, 2025

Helikon-Tex has introduced some comfy off-duty wear in Hawaiian-inspired patterns.

In addition to the shirts, you’ll find field totes.

Finally, there’s a Trucker cap in the patterns on the way as well.

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, Enforce Tac, Off-Duty | Comments Off on Enforce Tac 25 – Helikon-Tex Goes Hawaiian

RTS Tactical – Legion Shield

March 3rd, 2025

The Legion Shield from RTS Tactical features a Viewport and ballistic bolts. It is built and rated to defeat NIJ 0101.07 RF1 level threats.

The handle incorporates a vibration dampening pad to dissipate kinetic energy when taking hits and the corners feature rubber bumpers to protect then shield while using it as well as during transport and storage.

Additionally, the Legion Shield is compatible with Foxfury LED lights.

Offered in two sizes, 18″ x 32″ (16.8 lbs) and 20″ x 36″ (19.3 lbs).

To learn more, visit rtstactical.com/products/rts-tactical-legion-ballistic-shield.

Posted in Armor, LE | Comments Off on RTS Tactical – Legion Shield

Rheinmetall Squad Support Weapon – The 40mm Fire Support Weapon for Superior Infantry Firepower

March 3rd, 2025

Rheinmetall is presenting the world’s first automatic, magazine-loaded, shoulder fired grenade launcher at Enforcetac 2025. Both weight, dimensions and handling of the SSW40 are similar to assault rifles. Thanks to a recoil-reducing and self-regulating recoil system, the SSW40 (Squad Support Weapon 40) can fire all available 40mm Low Velocity (LV) ammunition types as well as the new Rheinmetall 40mm Medium Velocity (MV) ammunition.

The new MV ammunition has a significantly increased velocity and a flat trajectory, allowing targets to be engaged more quickly and increasing the effective range of the system to 900m. Combined with the broad spectrum of Rheinmetall’s 40mm LV/MV ammunition portfolio, the infantry user achieves unprecedented flexibility and effectiveness on the battlefield of the future. The first test firings were successfully carried out at the beginning of 2024. The market launch with series production will start in 2025.

The 40mm MV ammunition family combines Rheinmetall’s experience in 40mm LV and High Velocity (HV) ammunition. Therefore, the SSW40 can be used with the following ammunition types:

HE Fragmentation (HEFRAG)
Anti-Tank (HEDP)
Door Breaching (HEBE)
Air Burst (HEAB)
Training (TPM, TPM-T)
Illumination / Fog
Sound & Flash and Irritation Ammunition (CS)

Via a quick magazine change, the SSW40 can be used in any near peer as well as asymmetric conflict scenario and offers superior firepower in any terrain, even against medium-weight armoured vehicles. The interfaces on the SSW40 also allow the inclusion of laser light modules, fire control sights as well as IR programmers for aerial explosive point ammunition. The SSW40 can also be integrated on vehicle mounts or field mounts.

Posted in International, Press Release, weapons | 6 Comments »