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High Speed Gear Partners with ESSE K9 Collective to Serve K9 Professionals

August 27th, 2026

SWANSBORO, N.C. – August 27, 2026 – High Speed Gear® Products Group is proud to announce their partnership with ESSE K9 Collective, bringing together two American companies committed to developing dependable, mission-driven equipment for professional K9 handlers, operators and trainers.

The collaboration combines ESSE K9 Collective’s firsthand understanding of the working K9 community with High Speed Gear’s proven manufacturing capabilities and history of producing professional-grade tactical equipment. Together, the companies are introducing a specialized collection designed to give handlers greater control, flexibility and confidence while working with their K9 partners.

“K9 handlers operate in environments where their equipment has to work exactly as intended, every time,” said Michael Forras, Director of Sales for High Speed Gear Products Group. “What makes this partnership exciting is that Alex, and the entire team at ESSE K9 Collective, bring genuine experience and a deep understanding of the people who actually use this equipment. When you combine that perspective with our manufacturing experience and ability to turn real-world requirements into purpose-built solutions, you have an opportunity to create something genuinely valuable for the K9 community. That is exactly the kind of partnership we want to be part of.”

“This partnership brings an incredible opportunity to the table not only for ESSE K9 and High Speed Gear, but for the K9 industry as a whole,” said Alex Lausterer, owner and CEO of ESSE K9 Collective. “Whether it’s military, law enforcement, search and rescue, or general-purpose K9, combining High Speed Gear’s manufacturing capabilities with ESSE K9’s intellectual property opens an incredible number of doors.”

Lausterer said the partnership is grounded in a shared understanding of what professional handlers and working dogs actually need in the field.

“You have to relentlessly search for gaps that need filling and create hardened, purpose-driven solutions that allow handlers and K9s to execute their missions safely and effectively. The entire High Speed Gear family has supported that mission from day one with immense passion and excellence, and we’re proud to say we’re just getting started.”

The initial ESSE K9 product collection available through High Speed Gear includes:

• ESSE K9 Quick Adjust Hip Lead – A patent-pending adjustable hip lead that allows handlers to quickly change K9 positioning and lead length using High Speed Gear’s Double-Tap Slider™, with a 360-degree stainless-steel quick-release snap shackle rated to 1,000 pounds.

• ESSE K9 Adjustable Tether with Frog Clip – A quick-adjust tether equipped with a frog-style clip for handlers who prefer an alternative connection method.

• ESSE K9 Adjustable Tether – The quick-adjust component of ESSE K9’s patent-pending Quick Adjust Hip Lead system, featuring a standard bolt snap, mil-spec tubular webbing and High Speed Gear’s Double-Tap Slider™.

• ESSE K9 Standard Belt Loop – A classic hip-attachment option featuring mil-spec nylon webbing, a 2-inch belt opening and a Grade 316 stainless-steel swivel snap shackle rated up to 1,000 pounds.

• ESSE K9 O-Ring Keeper – A versatile keeper designed to cover the bolt snap and O-ring connection, support sound discipline and create a secure handle that stays in place.

• ESSE K9 EZ Belt Loop – A quick-release belt attachment that can be installed without removing or repositioning existing pouches and equipment on the handler’s duty belt.

Each component is designed to integrate into a flexible system, allowing K9 professionals to configure their equipment based on their responsibilities, working environment and mission requirements.

This collaboration expands High Speed Gear’s commitment to supporting law enforcement, military, security and training professionals with equipment built to meet the demands of real-world operations. It also gives ESSE K9 Collective access to High Speed Gear’s established manufacturing capabilities, dealer network and professional customer base.

The ESSE K9 collection is available through High Speed Gear’s website at: www.highspeedgear.com/collections/k9

Posted in Advertiser, K9, Press Release | No Comments »

Legend (Snow Weather) Compression OTC Merino Wool Tactical Boot Socks

August 27th, 2026

These socks were created for LEGENDARY performance & durability. These merino wool boot socks offer everything our Nation’s Armed Services, Federal Agencies, State and Local Law Enforcement, Fire & Rescue, Tactical Teams and Emergency Services need from their socks. Field tested and currently worn by US Special Operations. The mild but effective compression level helps improve blood flow and circulation to keep your legs and feet feeling strong and fresh all day long. The soft merino wool is naturally moisture wicking, breathable and odor resistant creating a comfortable feel to round out the perfect boot sock. The temperature regulating features of merino wool warms your feet in intense cold temperatures and cools your feet in hot temperatures. All of our merino wool socks are woven on state-of-the-art knitting machines to make them extra durable and LEGEND TUFF®.KEY FEATURES AND BENEFITS:

• Made in the USA in our North Carolina mill.

• TAA Compliant (Trade Agreement Act)

• The “Over-the-Calf” length stay-up and in place for all day comfort.

• Mild Graduated Compression to reduce foot fatigue.

• Graduated Compression in these socks is designed to promote blood circulation, endurance and overall performance.

• Durable & Comfortable: Dense Terry Cushion throughout the sock for comfort & warmth.

• Cushion in critical shock zones.

• Soft. The secret our softness is the exceptionally fine merino wool and acrylic blended fibers.

• Naturally odor resistant.

• Moisture wicking & breathable to keep you dry.

• Warm & Cool: Merino Wool is an active fiber that reacts to change in body temperature. You stay warm when the weather is cold, and cool when the weather is hot.

• Arch support designed to provide comfort and minimal sock movement to prevent blisters.

• Machine washable- Low Shrinkage.

• Natural barrier to UV.

• LEGEND logo on toe signifies premium quality.

KEY CONSTRUCTION ATTRIBUTES (from the toe to the top of the sock):

• Low Friction Toe: Toe construction minimizes friction that can cause irritation & blisters.

• Extra cushion throughout entire sock for increased comfort, durability and Warmth.

• Merino wool and acrylic yarn blend provide for softness, durability and to reduced shrinkage.

• Spandex keeps the over-the-calf socks up and in place. They don’t fall down!

• Clencher over the arch of foot for support and helps prevent blisters

• Ventilation panels for breathability

Key Benefits Expanded:

Improved Endurance: By promoting proper blood circulation these socks are designed to support you as while navigating difficult and uneven terrain. The mild graduated compression provides the right amount of support for your legs & feet to perform at their best!

Temperature Regulating: Keep Cool & Stay Warm- The unique merino wool fabrics naturally help to keep your feet cool on hot days as well as keep them warm on cold days. By helping to keep your feet at the right temperature, it will help to keep the rest of your body at the right temperature as well, making for more comfortable working conditions.

Reduce fatigue & Soreness: By using our mild graduated compression boot socks, you will find that your time needed to recover becomes shorter. By promoting proper blood circulation through graduated compression these socks will help to reduce tired and achy feet.

Visit us at: www.legendcompressiontactical.com or www.legendcompressionwear.com.

Posted in Clothing, Press Release | No Comments »

Reptilia Introduces the AGS 34MM 20 MOA Mount for Extended-Range Precision Shooting

August 27th, 2026

A purpose-built, low-profile optic mount combining a 1.34-inch height, 20 MOA of forward elevation, and the strength of billet 7075-T6 aluminum.

Reptilia is proud to introduce the AGS™ Mount in 34mm with 20 MOA elevation, a precision optic mounting solution engineered specifically for modern bolt-action rifles and shooters pushing their capabilities at extended distances.

Built around a 1.34-inch optical centerline height over rail, the AGS places the scope lower and closer to the bore than many conventional precision rifle mounts. The result is a more natural shooting position, improved cheek weld, and a streamlined interface between the shooter, rifle, and optic.

SYMMETRIC, NON-CANTILEVER DESIGN

Unlike cantilever mounts that extend the optic forward of the mounting surface, the AGS features a symmetric, non-cantilever design that keeps the scope centered over the rifle’s receiver and mounting interface. This configuration is particularly well suited to bolt-action and precision rifles, where extended forward offset is typically unnecessary. By keeping the scope and rings balanced directly over the action, the AGS delivers a compact, streamlined mounting solution while maximizing rigidity and maintaining a clean, low-profile footprint.

The 34mm 20 MOA configuration is designed for precision rifles equipped with modern 34mm optics and shooters who require additional elevation adjustment for long-range applications. By incorporating 20 MOA of forward cant, the mount helps preserve valuable internal elevation travel for engaging targets at greater distances.

The AGS is machined from a single piece of billet 7075-T6 aluminum, providing the rigidity required for demanding precision applications while maintaining a weight of just 148 grams. Its one-piece design is paired with Reptilia’s proven mounting system, utilizing a spring-loaded, nitrided steel clamp and flush-fit hardware for secure, repeatable attachment to M1913 Picatinny rails.

Finished with MIL-STD Type III hardcoat anodizing, the AGS is built for hard use in the field, whether mounted to a dedicated long-range rifle, precision hunting rifle, or competition-focused bolt gun.

The Reptilia AGS 34mm 20 MOA Mount represents a purpose-driven approach to precision rifle mounting: lower where it matters, stronger where it counts, and configured to give shooters more usable elevation when the distance starts to stretch.

The 34mm / 20 MOA AGS is the first of several configurations planned for the product line. Additional versions will include:

30mm / 0 MOA
30mm / 20 MOA
34mm / 0 MOA
35mm / 0 MOA
35mm / 20 MOA

Features:

34mm scope ring diameter
20 MOA forward elevation
1.34-inch optical centerline height over rail
Symmetric, non-cantilever design
Machined from billet 7075-T6 aluminum
One-piece construction for exceptional rigidity
Spring-loaded, nitrided steel clamp
Flush-fit, anti-snag mounting hardware
MIL-STD Type III hardcoat anodized
148 grams
Compatible with M1913 Picatinny rails
Made in the USA

The AGS Mount is purpose-built for the modern bolt-action rifle.

MSRP: $349.95

For more information and to get your own AGS 34mm / 20 MOA, head over to the Reptilia AGS™ Mount – 1.34″ Height product page.

Posted in Advertiser, Optics, Press Release | No Comments »

‘Final Denial’: Air Force Leaders Lean in to the Future of Drone Defense

August 27th, 2026

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. — The 31st Air Task Force sharpened and refined a layered counter-small unmanned aerial system defense capability, culminating in a kinetic “final denial” live-fire demonstration, August 3-7, 2026.

The week-long training event built on counter-sUAS initiatives first employed during the ATF’s February field exercise and increased knowledge among Airmen from Hurlburt Field and Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, assigned to the 31st ATF.

“Through a crawl, walk, run approach, Airmen gained practical knowledge of a full spectrum of layered counter-sUAS capabilities,” said the 31st ATF’s force protection superintendent. “The ATF is posturing to provide tiered defense through detection, electronic warfare defeat, and physical interception of hostile drones.”

Throughout the week, Airmen trained on AI-powered systems that detect, track, and filter aerial objects from planes and drones to birds. They also improved real-time data sharing across multiple levels of command and control from an expeditionary base defense operations center.

The 31st ATF hosted leaders from Air Force Special Operations Command and the 1st Special Operations Wing, joining experts on drone warfare, precision munitions, and unmanned threat detection and mitigation. They explored the latest ways to protect the warfighter and counter emergent UAS threats.

“It’s inspiring to see a unit at this level proactively tackling a problem-set that is top of mind for leaders across the Air Force and the Department of War,” said 1st SOW Deputy Commander, Col. Clayton Schuety. “The blend of entrepreneurial foresight, AI surveillance, and human-directed targeting will no doubt create positive impacts for the warfighter. We look forward to seeing how this effort continues to mature and receiving the lessons learned which will benefit Air Commandos and the larger force.”

By teaming with top industry partners and using existing Air Force equipment, the 31st ATF trained Airmen on weapons designed to defend against hostile drones and safeguard against electromagnetic warfare threats. Airmen practiced organic reconnaissance and denial of high-speed sUAS targets mimicking hostile flight patterns.

“The team successfully executed a capstone event that validated new tactics, techniques, and procedures across force protection and distributed communications,” said 31st ATF commander, Col. Brad Dvorak. “Our mission is to enable airpower operations, anytime, anywhere. By establishing a sUAS instructor cadre, we trained our personnel on counter-sUAS architecture and employed unique solutions for Airmen to track, jam, and kinetically defeat sUAS threats.”

The 31st ATF is a combat-ready unit of action bringing competitive advantage to meet pacing challenges. The wing, commanded by an Air Force colonel, consists of a command-and-control element and a combat air base squadron with up to 2,500 Airmen across more than 60 Air Force specialty codes. The team can provide base operating support for deployed flying units, also known as mission generation force elements, and the necessary logistics to execute agile combat employment.

Story by 2nd Lt Daniel White

Air Force Special Operations Command

Posted in Air Force, C-UAS, Guest Post | No Comments »

AV Receives $51 Million US Army Order for Switchblade 600 Loitering Munitions

August 26th, 2026

Award under Lethal Unmanned Systems IDIQ reflects growing demand for AV’s next-generation, long-range precision loitering munitions and proven Switchblade 600 performance.

ARLINGTON, Va., August 26, 2026 – AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global leader in defense technology, autonomous systems and precision strike solutions, today announced receipt of a $51 million delivery order from the United States Army for additional Switchblade® 600 Block 2 loitering munition systems. The order also includes Switchblade 600 Block 1 systems in support of a Foreign Military Sale to a key United States ally.

The order was awarded under the Army’s existing five-year, $990 million Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract for Lethal Unmanned Systems (LUS), originally issued in August 2024.

This latest award represents a follow-on procurement to the Army’s initial order for the next-generation Switchblade product line and underscores the strong, sustained demand for AV’s battle-proven long-range, precision loitering munitions.

“Continued investment by the U.S. Army in Switchblade 600 Block 2 reflects both the growing demand for long-range, precision loitering munitions and the proven reliability of the Switchblade family in demanding operational environments,” said Brian Young, Senior Vice President of Loitering Munitions at AV. “Building on the success of Switchblade 600 Block 1, Block 2 continues to deliver the meaningful upgrades in autonomy, resilience, and lethality tailored to the Army’s needs in contested, multi-domain operations.”

This order also reflects AV’s expanding production capacity and performance on prior Switchblade 600 deliveries.

“This new delivery order under the LUS IDIQ further validates Switchblade 600 Block 2 as a next-generation, scalable fires solution for the Army,” said Young. “As we expand our manufacturing capacity and accelerate delivery timelines, we’re ensuring that U.S. soldiers have reliable, combat-proven loitering munitions that deliver precision effects at range while keeping them out of harm’s way.”

Since 2025, Switchblade 600 has been fielded across more than 20 brigade combat teams while hundreds of U.S. soldiers have been trained on the system’s operation and employment.

Switchblade 600 Block 2 is designed for multi-domain operations and ruggedized for maritime and highly contested environments. Developed in collaboration with United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM), the system incorporates upgraded avionics and advanced automatic target recognition including SPOTR AiTR, to enable faster detection, identification, and engagement of threats.

Integrated resilient communications, including Silvus MANET radios, support distributed operations and extended handoff ranges, while improved navigation and mission resilience allow effective employment in GPS-challenged environments. These enhancements provide commanders with increased reach, flexibility, and confidence against armored and other high-value targets.

Posted in Admin, Army, Contracts, Munitions, Press Release | No Comments »

Beretta Introduces the APX A1 Ported, Delivering Flatter Performance and Faster Follow-up Shots

August 26th, 2026

Accokeek, MD (August 26, 2026) – Beretta expands its proven APX A1 family with the introduction of the APX A1 Ported, a new model engineered to provide enhanced control, faster follow-up shots and confident manipulation. Featuring a precision ported barrel and slide system, oversized controls and a factory optics-ready slide, and available in FDE and OD Green, the APX A1 Ported is built for shooters who demand speed and performance on the range, in competition or for personal defense.

At the heart of the APX A1 Ported is its precision porting system, featuring a single angled port in the barrel paired with seven ports in the slide. Designed to redirect gas upward, the system helps reduce muzzle rise and felt recoil, keeping the pistol flatter and allowing shooters to return to target faster for more controlled follow-up shots. The APX A1 Ported also introduces oversized controls, including an enlarged magazine release and ambidextrous slide release, providing enhanced ergonomics and faster manipulation. Both controls can be configured for right- or left-handed shooters, giving users the flexibility to set up the pistol to fit their preferred operation.

For running a red dot, the APX A1 Ported comes equipped with a factory optics-ready slide designed to accept many of today’s most popular pistol optics. A compatible mounting plate is required and is not included with the pistol. Combined with the pistol’s proven ergonomics, the optics-ready platform gives shooters the flexibility to configure the APX A1 Ported for a variety of applications, from training and competition to personal defense. Deep, aggressive slide serrations provide a secure grip for racking and press checks, while Beretta’s Aquatech Shield coating enhances durability and resistance to corrosion and chemicals.

Key Features:

• Precision Ported Barrel and Slide: A single angled barrel port and seven slide ports redirect gas upward to help reduce muzzle rise and felt recoil for flatter, faster shooting.

• Oversized Controls: Enlarged magazine and ambidextrous slide releases provide enhanced ergonomics and quicker manipulation.

• Red Dot Optic-Ready Slide: Factory optics-ready configuration accommodates many popular pistol red dot optics.

• Aggressive Slide Serrations: Deep serrations provide confident slide manipulation, while the Aquatech Shield coating enhances durability and resistance to corrosion and chemicals.

• Ambidextrous Controls: Magazine and slide releases can be configured for right- or left-handed operation.

• Three Magazines Included: Each APX A1 Ported ships with three magazines.

“The APX A1 Ported brings a new level of speed and control to the APX A1 family,” said Logan Killam, Sr. Product Manager for Beretta USA. “The combination of the ported barrel and slide, enhanced controls and optics-ready configuration offer a platform designed to help them stay on target and make faster, more controlled follow-up shots.”

The Beretta APX A1 Ported will be available through Beretta authorized dealers nationwide with an MSRP of $629.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | No Comments »

USSOCOM Seeks Battery Bottles

August 26th, 2026

SOFWERX, in collaboration with USSOCOM Program Executive Office Maritime, Undersea (PEO-M-U), will host a virtual Assessment Event on 30 September 2026.

The PEO-M-U Program Office is engaging industry to determine the readiness of the manufacturing base to evaluate, fabricate, provide Objective Quality Evidence (OQE), and deliver an initial quantity of pressure-capable containment pods for the command’s Large Format, Propagation Resistant battery design.

The PEO-M-U develops and supports a family of manned submersibles that support the operation of our Warfighters. These manned submersibles are powered by large-format, propagation-resistant battery systems. The Battery Systems require a watertight, pressure-resistant,and shock-resistant design to transport and protect the integrity and function of the batteries.

The Government is seeking cost and schedule estimates and technical (primarily manufacturability) review of several designs (to be provided as part of this solicitation). The objective is to accumulate input from industry and select one or more vendors to manufacture and deliver one or more of the government-provided designs. The vendor will be responsible for reviewing the design(s) for manufacturability, assuming the Government will maintain Design Authority and perform applicable testing of the delivered pods.

U.S. Citizens Only

Submit NLT 08 September 2026 11:59 PM ET. Learn more at events.sofwerx.org/peo-m-battery-bottle.

Posted in Maritime, Power, SOF | Comments Off on USSOCOM Seeks Battery Bottles

Your Guide to the My Army Post App: The New Digital Hub for Army Life

August 26th, 2026

Navigating daily life on an Army installation just got easier. Whether you’re a Soldier, family member, civilian employee, retiree or contractor, keeping track of base resources, gate traffic and community updates can be a challenge. Enter the My Army Post App, or MAPA, the official mobile information center designed specifically for Army garrisons worldwide.

Replacing the older Digital Garrison app and various local legacy apps, MAPA is a centralized, user-friendly portal designed to streamline your daily activities on post. Here is everything you need to know about the Army’s newest mobile hub.

What Can the My Army Post App Do for You?

MAPA consolidates vital installation resources into a single digital platform, bringing the garrison directly to your fingertips with several key capabilities:

Installation Navigation & Information:Never get lost looking for a specific building again. MAPA provides quick access to operating hours, contact details and directions for on-post resources like housing, dining facilities, fitness centers, health care clinics and youth services.

Administrative & Facility Tools: Need to schedule a Common Access Card appointment or submit a maintenance work order? You can initiate these tasks right from the app. It also offers helpful resources for reviewing in-processing or permanent change of station information.

Real-Time Updates: Stay in the know with live updates on gate traffic conditions, important community announcements, and urgent push notifications sent directly from garrison leadership.

Seamless Customization: Once you download the app, simply select your specific installation and save your localized information for rapid, customized access.

Things to Keep in Mind

While MAPA is a massive upgrade to Army digital resources, there are a couple of transition details to note:

Make Sure You Have the Right App: Because MAPA is officially replacing legacy apps like Digital Garrison, many historical local base applications are currently sunsetting. Ensure you search for and download the “My Army Post” app rather than older, outdated installation apps.

Feature Variance: The core framework of the app is standardized across the Army, but specific features may vary slightly. This depends on how fully your specific garrison has integrated its local services into the MAPA platform.

How to Get Connected

The My Army Post App is completely free and publicly available for download on mobile devices and tablets. You can find it on: