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Kopin Secures Transformative $15.4M Award to Revolutionize Color MicroLED Technology and Domestic Production for U.S. Army Ground Soldier Integrated Visual Augmented Reality Applications

September 15th, 2025

Funded by the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program, the award reinforces support for U.S. based manufacturing and innovation of Kopin’s Color MicroLED

WESTBOROUGH, Mass. – September 10, 2025 – Kopin Corporation (NASDAQ: KOPN), a pioneering leader in application-specific optical systems and high-performance microdisplays, has been awarded a transformative $15.4 million Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) from the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) through the U.S. Army Contracting Command (ACC) under the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program. This landmark award accelerates Kopin’s development of ultra-bright, full-color MicroLED displays optimized for ground soldier augmented reality (AR) applications, positioning the company as a cornerstone of America’s defense innovation and domestic manufacturing ecosystem. By advancing daytime and nighttime readable AR display technology, Kopin is poised to redefine battlefield vision systems, enhancing soldier lethality, situational awareness, and operational effectiveness.

A Transformational, Game-Changer for Kopin and U.S. Defense

This award marks a pivotal moment for Kopin, solidifying its leadership in MicroLED technology and establishing a robust U.S.-based production capability for this critical defense technology. The funding empowers Kopin to develop full-color MicroLED microdisplays tailored for Integrated Visual AR systems, delivering unmatched performance in diverse lighting conditions—from intense daylight to low-visibility environments. Unlike traditional displays, MicroLED offers superior brightness, power efficiency, and durability, eliminating temporal artifacts that can impair soldier performance during prolonged use. This breakthrough technology ensures crystal-clear visuals, enabling warfighters to maintain focus and make critical decisions in high-stress combat scenarios.

By investing in scalable, U.S.-based manufacturing, Kopin is strengthening the nation’s defense industrial base, ensuring a secure and reliable supply chain for advanced display technologies. This domestic production capability not only supports current U.S. Army needs but also positions Kopin to win future defense programs that rely on full-color MicroLED for next-generation AR systems. The company’s Class 10 cleanroom facility in the United States, combined with over 40 years of experience and more than 400,000 defense vision systems fielded, underscores Kopin’s unmatched reliability and expertise as a trusted partner to the U.S. military.

Strategic Synergy for Future Defense Programs

The IBAS award builds on Kopin’s ongoing Soldier Display Trade Study and Phase 2 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract for an Off-the-Visor (OTV) extended reality (XR) prototype.Together, these initiatives create a powerful synergy, positioning Kopin at the forefront of soldier-centric AR innovation. The full-color MicroLED technology developed under this award will enable AR systems that deliver unparalleled clarity and usability, day or night, meeting the rigorous demands of modern warfare. We believe this award positions Kopin as a frontrunner for future U.S. defense contracts that prioritize advanced AR solutions for enhanced soldier performance.

“This is a transformative moment in Kopin’s history and growth trajectory as this contract and the expected follow-on non-dilutive infrastructure investment contracts will be the bedrock which we build the next decade of foundational innovations upon. Kopin’s expertise in MicroLED technology, coupled with our domestic manufacturing capabilities, is transforming how America’s warfighters see and interact with the battlefield,” said Michael Murray, CEO, President, and Chairman of Kopin.

“This award is a testament to our ability to deliver cutting-edge, soldier-centric solutions that enhance lethality and situational awareness. By integrating insights from our Soldier Display Trade Study and OTV prototype, we are creating AR systems that not only push technological boundaries but also prioritize human factors, ensuring soldier acceptance and operational success. This is a defining moment for Kopin as we pave the way for future defense programs.”

A Bright Future for MicroLED and National Security

The government’s recognition of MicroLED as a critical technology underscores its importance for next-generation AR systems. Kopin’s advancements in full-color MicroLED displays offer significant technical advantages, including greater brightness, energy efficiency, and production cost efficiency. These innovations enable scalable, high-volume manufacturing in the U.S., ensuring that America’s warfighters have access to state-of-the-art technology produced domestically. This award not only strengthens Kopin’s innovation pipeline but also enhances national security by reducing reliance on foreign supply chains.

With this transformative award, Kopin is well-positioned to provide key components for the development and production of AR systems that will define the future of battlefield vision. By delivering human-centric, high-performance solutions, Kopin continues to empower U.S. warfighters with the tools they need to succeed in the most challenging environments.
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Haley Strategic Partners Launches All New MP2 Pistol Magazine Pouches

September 15th, 2025

September 10, 2025 (Scottsdale, AZ) – We set out to create all new Pistol Pouches designed around the superior retention principles of our popular MP2 Rifle Inserts.

The Single Pistol Pouch features a robust laminate construction with a removable injection molded MP2 Handgun Insert that enables secure retention of pistol magazines without the need for pull tabs, bungies or hook and loop flaps. The positive click-in retention provides audible and tactile feedback and delivers a smooth draw.

Rather than traditional heat-formed Kydex, which can deform in extreme heat or become brittle in extreme cold, the MP2 is injection molded from a blend of reinforced polyamides known for their superior weather performance and impact resistance, as well as their ability to maintain shape and retention over time.

The intuitive design allows the removable MP2-HG inserts to be installed to the shooter’s preference; either the traditional “bullets forward” orientation or “bullets outward” orientation. Common with competitive shooters and law enforcement, the “bullets outward” orientation provides a more ergonomic draw by reducing the amount of wrist rotation needed during a speed reload.

The all new Single and Double Pistol Pouches were designed to fit common sized double stack handgun magazines including but not limited to: Glock 17/19/19X/34/45/47/22/23, Sig Sauer P320/M18/M17/P226, Staccato P/C/CS/C2/XC (and other standard 2011 mags), Smith and Wesson M&P9, Springfield Armory XD9/XD40/Hellcat, HK P30/VP9/USP9, Walther PDP, and any similar sized magazine.

The research and development process also culminated in a brand new universal pouch attachment system for belts, the Mandible MOLLE Straps. The lightweight closure system is reusable and provides quick installation of pouches with finer adjustability than traditional MOLLE/PALS or Malice Clips® (sized for outer belts 1.5″ – 2.0″). The Mandible Straps were disruptively designed with a proprietary extruded hook and loop laminate for extra strength adhesion to inner belts as compared to OneWrap.

All MP2 Pistol Pouches come standard with 2x Mandible Vertical MOLLE Straps. The optional Mandible Angled MOLLE Strapprovides attachment of pistol magazine pouches at an ergonomic 45-degree angle for a more efficient draw/reload angle.

The all new Pistol Pouches deploy the latest manufacturing techniques and advanced materials to deliver an innovative system that seamlessly supports all end users. Learn more and shop at www.haleystrategic.com.

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Final Basing Decision for Special Operations Wing to Davis-Monthan AFB, Revisions to Maximize Effectiveness

September 15th, 2025

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

The Department of the Air Force has selected Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, as the new location for the 492nd Special Operations Wing.

Originally announced in August 2023, the plan to establish the 492nd SOW at Davis-Monthan AFB has been refined to prioritize mission effectiveness, cost efficiency and alignment with Air Force and Department of War priorities.

Following the required environmental analysis, these previously announced units will relocate to Davis-Monthan AFB:

• Headquarters, 492nd Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, Florida

• 492nd Special Operations Theater Air Operations Squadron at Duke Field, Fla.

• 319th Special Operations Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Fla.

• Air Combat Command Intelligence Squadron, new activation

Additionally, as part of a refined plan, Davis-Monthan AFB is identified as the preferred location for the following units as part of the 492nd SOW:

• 34th Special Operations Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Fla.

• 20th Special Operations Squadron and 20th Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico

The Air Force will begin the required environmental analysis on proposed changes beginning fall 2025.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

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Darley Named One of the Best Places to Work in Chicago

September 14th, 2025

ITASCA, IL – September 12, 2025 – Darley, a leading provider of defense, fire, and emergency services equipment, is proud to announce it has been selected as one of the Best Places to Work in Chicago by Crain’s Chicago Business.

To earn this recognition, Crain partners with Workforce Research Group, an independent firm that manages employee engagement surveys, to conduct the research and provide us with a ranked list. The rankings are based on a calculation that involves the weighting of your employee survey (80%) and your employer questionnaire (20%).

Paul Darley, President & CEO of Darley comments, “We’re honored to be recognized through a process that thoughtfully weighs both employee feedback and organizational input. Partnering with an independent research firm ensures the integrity of the rankings and reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a workplace where people feel valued and engaged.”

Learn more on our websites: www.darley.com and shop.darley.com.

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Galls Acquires Uniform Works, Expands Into Canada

September 14th, 2025

LEXINGTON, KY—September 9, 2025 —GALLS®, the leading uniform and tactical gear supplier serving America’s public safety and military professionals, has announced a strategic acquisition that marks GALLS’®expansion into Canada. GALLS® is now Proud To Serve Those Who Serve in both the US and Canada.

“With Uniform Works’ trusted reputation in Canada, the move brings together two mission-driven organizations dedicated to serving law enforcement, fire, EMS, and security professionals with the uniforms and gear they need when they need it. This acquisition marks a pivotal moment for GALLS®, and we take our brand and our commitment to public safety across the border,” said Mike Fadden, GALLS® CEO. “Will Melnyk and his team have built an impressive company with values that align with ours, along with that passion for serving heroes that keep us all safe. Will and team will stay on to lead GALLS® Canada, so our Canadian customers will get the best of both worlds, the trusted service of Will and his team with the Galls eQuip solution and the power of the industry leader.”

Will Melnyk said, “Uniform Works has always been guided by integrity, service, and relationships, and those values have shaped our reputation as a trusted partner to first responders across Canada for more than two decades. Becoming GALLS®’ first acquisition in Canada is an important milestone; one that underscores both the strength of what we have built and the opportunity ahead. We are especially excited to bring GALLS®’ unparalleled eQuip platform to the Canadian market, as it will provide our customers with new levels of efficiency, convenience, and service. This partnership ensures that Uniform Works will continue to grow while delivering greater value and expanded solutions to the Canadian public safety community.”

With over 50 years of experience serving over one million public safety professionals annually, GALLS® continues to grow as the trusted source for public safety and military uniforms, gear, and equipment. Integrating Uniform Works with GALLS® will provide Canadian customers access to GALLS®’ extensive curated inventory, exclusive customizable agency solutions, and relentless customer focus.

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Savox Communications and Nokia Announce Agreement to Explore Joint Development of Tactical Communications Solutions

September 14th, 2025

Espoo, Finland – September 12, 2025 – Savox Communications Oy Ab (Ltd) (Savox) and Nokia Solutions and Networks Oy (Nokia) today announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the development of joint solutions in the defense communications space.

By combining their technical expertise, Savox and Nokia aim to create innovative solutions for tactical communications that provide unmatched connectivity, speed, and reliability for mission-critical operations. Under the agreement, this collaboration will explore:

Enhanced Connectivity: Leveraging 5G and 6G networks to provide seamless and ultra-fast communication channels for tactical operations, ensuring real-time data exchange and improved situational awareness.

Advanced Solutions: Developing innovative solutions that combine the strengths of both companies, such as secure communication devices, advanced encryption technologies, and robust network infrastructure.

Global Reach: Expanding the reach of tactical communication solutions to global markets, enabling defense and security forces worldwide to benefit from state-of-the-art technology and enhanced operational capabilities.

“By integrating Savox mission-critical audio, command and control solutions with Nokia´s advanced networks, we will deliver reliable, scalable communications tailored for the most demanding operations,” said Jerry Kettunen, CEO at Savox.

“Nokia is committed to innovation and excellence in communications technology,” said Giuseppe Targia, Head of Space and Defense, Nokia. “We look forward to working with Savox to create new and innovative solutions that will benefit our customers and the industry as a whole.”

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AFSOC Stands Up 31st Air Task Force

September 14th, 2025

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. – Air Force Special Operations Command activated the 31st Air Task Force July 15 and marked the milestone with a stand-up and assumption of command ceremony Sept. 12 at Hurlburt Field.

The ceremony presided over by U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Michael Martin, AFSOC deputy commander, marked the official activation of AFSOC’s second ATF. U.S. Air Force Col. Brad M. Dvorak assumed command, and Chief Master Sgt. Matthew Greiner will serve as the command chief.

“We are activating the next Air Force unit of action,” said Martin. “This unit is deliberately integrated, self-sufficient, and ready to bring airpower anywhere in the world.”

ATFs are limited-scale, experimental units designed to provide combat capabilities to the Joint Force. As the Air Force transitions away from the Expeditionary Air Base model, ATFs serve as a step toward the Air Force’s long-term design for building fully ready, taskable units prepared to compete and win.

“We have been what the nation needed us to be for the last 20 years,” said Martin. “This is the next chapter in how the Air Force meets the next threats and challenges globally.”

Airmen assigned to the ATF will align with the Air Force Force Generation cycle, deploying as cohesive units rather than aggregating personnel from multiple installations. The deliberate cycle fosters unit familiarity and provides clearer assessments of Air Force capacity to the joint force.

“You won’t find a better integrated group of Airmen working across mission lines, united by a shared vision and forged through incredible community support,” said Dvorak.

The stand-up of the 31st ATF reflects a service-wide effort to build teams capable of delivering integrated capabilities to combatant commanders while strengthening the Air Force’s long-term force design.

“In short order, we’re bringing air superiority any time, any place, anywhere,” said Dvorak. “Chief Greiner and I are so grateful to lead such a talented group of individuals.”

The Department of the Air Force has designated seven ATFs across the service as part of this force presentation initiative. ATFs mark a key stage in the Air Force’s continuing path to modernization and readiness, ensuring the service is postured to outpace emerging threats.

Story by 2nd Lt Rachel Heck | 1st Special Operations Wing

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Nokia and KONGSBERG Sign Agreement to Advance Defense Communications with 5G Technology

September 13th, 2025

Collaboration combines the companies’ expertise in tactical communications and mobile networks to deliver advanced capabilities to defense forces and allied nations.
Focuses on deployable 5G solutions for field operations today, while exploring future technologies like 6G to boost situational awareness and military readiness

Espoo, Finland, September 11, 2025

Nokia and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG), Norway’ leading defense technology provider, specializing in advanced systems across land, sea, air, and space domains, today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on enhancing tactical communications solutions for the defense sector. The agreement brings together KONGSBERG’s expertise in military tactical communications and Nokia’s leadership in commercial 4G, 5G, and private wireless technologies to deliver secure, resilient, and high-performance networks for defense organizations and allied nations.

The collaboration will aim to simplify the deployment of 5G in tactical systems, enhancing reliable and interoperable battlefield communications. It will also explore opportunities including tactical 5G capabilities, integration with unmanned systems and sensors, and participation in European Defense Fund initiatives like 5G COMPAD and the Federated Advanced Cyber Physical Test Range (FACT) program. Longer term, the companies will look at future technologies such as Nokia’s 6G “network as a sensor” (Integrated Sensing and Communication) to enhance situational awareness and military readiness.

“By combining KONGSBERG’s tactical communication assets with Nokia’s leadership in industry-standard technologies, we can speed up the use of civilian telecom solutions in defense. Together, we’ll explore how 5G and 6G can support the developing connectivity requirements in tactical systems, from secure voice and real-time data to unmanned systems and advanced sensors,” said Kjetil R. Myhra, EVP Defence Systems at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

“Many of our products in Nokia are inherently dual-use, serving both commercial and military needs. This collaboration with KONGSBERG underscores our commitment to providing advanced, secure and fast 5G mobile networks and integrating Nokia’s Banshee radio portfolio to strengthen operations capabilities for a range of tactical scenarios,” said Giuseppe Targia, Head of Space and Defense at Nokia.

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