Aquaterro

ARES Watch Co Announces MultiCam Black, October Small Batch

October 31st, 2025

October 30 ,2025 – Stanwood, WA – ARES Watch Co. manufacturer of American operational Mission Timers is launching their October Limited Edition, MultiCam™ Black, Small Batch drop on Friday, October 31st at 12:00 PM EST. 

As part of this limited drop, ARES will feature its first-ever run of Cordura Nylon 3-ring straps in MultiCam Black™. 

This launch of this month’s serialized 12 time pieces will feature the ARES Automatic DIVER-1 Mission Timer®, with a custom Deep Black CERAKOTE® bezel, matching black dial and case – an intricate design choice to pair with the MultiCam Black™ straps. 

The DIVER-1 is manufactured with a precision Swiss movement, assembled, timed, and regulated by ARES watchmakers, including perlage & finishing. A flat sapphire crystal with inner anti-reflective AR coating, and brass dial with Super LumiNova C3 printed hour indicators make the timepiece durable and easy to read in any condition. 

Built to withstand extreme conditions, the Automatic Diver-1 offers 1050 meters of water resistance, making it perfect for everything from tactical use to recreational diving and when weather conditions take a turn its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and luminous hands and markers provide clear visibility and protection. The Diver-1 also features mission timer countdown functionality standard in military dive watches. Powered by accurate precision Swiss movement, this watch is a reliable for both active-duty and everyday wear.

This extreme limited drop further separates ARES from its peers, proving that no other company can truly customize a time piece upon request.  All AUTOMATIC Mission Timers will arrive in a Seahorse Cases, SE56 black case. 

“Working with the MultiCam™ variants isn’t just a colorway — it’s a continuation of what we believe: purpose over polish,” said ARES Founder, Matt Graham. “Every Mission Timer leaves our bench the same way — with proof it was built, not simply assembled. Anyone can design a watch — we manufacture them. The MultiCam™ Black run is proof that when you own the process, you can create things no one else can.”

Assault Plate Redefines Tactical Load Bearing with Carbon Fiber Innovation

October 31st, 2025

Made in America. Built for those who carry the mission.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — October 31, 2025 — Assault Plate LLC has officially launched with a first-of-its-kind innovation for military and law-enforcement operators: the Assault Plate™, a carbon-fiber load-bearing system that eliminates shoulder straps and integrates seamlessly with any plate carrier.

Engineered and manufactured entirely in the United States, the Assault Plate™ allows operators to carry up to 30 pounds of mission-essential gear without shoulder straps, freeing the shoulders for weapon control and reducing fatigue during long operations. The carbon-fiber frame slides between the body armor and pack, clearing the shoulders while maintaining easy access to the mission essential gear on the back.

‘This isn’t an accessory – it’s an evolution,’ said an operator who wished to remain anonymous. ‘It solves a real problem users face every day; how to carry the load without sacrificing access.’

The Assault Plate™ system is Berry-compliant, constructed from US made carbon fiber, and compatible with almost every backpack and plate carrier on the market. It can integrate with existing straps on the pack or attach using included universal straps.

Designed for special operations, SWAT, and tactical professionals, Assault Plate™ represents the next generation of American-made tactical equipment.

Patent pending.

www.assaultplate.com

orders@assaultplate.com

FirstSpear Friday Focus: 2025 Florida SWAT Roundup

October 31st, 2025

Come see us at the 2025 Florida SWAT Roundup next week over at booth 4S from Sunday, November 2nd through Friday, November 7th. Check out our product line-up and catch up with our team to learn more about what’s coming in 2026!

To request an estimate click image above or visit First-Spear.com/Request-For-Estimate. FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting-edge tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train.

For more information visit First-Spear.com.

Solid State plc Through Steatite has Secured an Initial $10.8 Million UK MoD Order for Project CAIN

October 31st, 2025

Solid State plc (AIM: SOLI), the specialist value-added component supplier and design-in-manufacturer of computing, power, and communications products, is pleased to announce that its subsidiary Steatite Ltd has secured an initial order valued at US $10.8 million under Project CAIN, a major defence programme, for a UK Government end user.

The order represents a significant milestone in Steatite’s ongoing strategy to deliver cutting-edge, mission-critical technologies to the UK’s armed forces and security community. Under Project CAIN, Steatite will supply a range of secure, ruggedised systems including the MPU5 and Wave Relay Radio Technology from Persistent Systems, supporting advanced operational capabilities in challenging environments.

Delivery of these initial systems is scheduled for the first half of 2026. The project further strengthens Steatite’s position as a trusted supplier to the UK Ministry of Defence and reinforces its reputation for innovation and reliability in the delivery of secure technology solutions.

Commenting on the award, Matthew Richards, Systems Divisional Managing Director of Solid State plc, said:

“This contract win is the result of extensive collaboration with our customer, the OEM Persistent Systems and other commercial providers, which highlights the strength of Steatite’s capability and commitment to operational excellence.

“Project CAIN will play a key role in enhancing the UK’s defence resilience, aligning with the targets set by Chief of the General Staff General, Sir Roly Walker, to double lethality in 3 years and triple it in 10. We’re proud to be part of its delivery and thank Tim Sage and his colleagues within our communications team for getting us to this stage. We now look forward to supporting the MoD in the months and years to come on such a prestigious and vitally important programme.”

This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the UK version of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 which is part of UK law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended (“MAR”). Upon the publication of this announcement via a Regulatory Information Service, this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain.

Cooperation with Bulgaria: Rheinmetall and VMZ Establish Joint Venture for the Production of Artillery Ammunition

October 31st, 2025

Rheinmetall and the Bulgarian company VMZ (Vazovski Mashinostroitelni Zavodi) are establishing a joint venture for the development and manufacture of artillery shells and energetic materials. A corresponding agreement was signed today. The total investment in the joint venture amounts to approximately €1 billion – one of the most significant investments in ammunition production in recent years. Rheinmetall holds a 51% stake in the joint venture, while VMZ holds 49%.

The production facility will cover an area of around 100 hectares. The site is located in the Sopot region of Bulgaria. The joint venture is expected to create around 1,000 jobs. Annual production capacity will be around 100,000 shells and propellant charges for up to 150,000 shells. In addition, the joint venture will produce approximately 1,300 tonnes of propellant powder. This capacity will support VMZ’s business. According to current plans, production of projectile casings is scheduled to begin in 2027. Energetic materials are to be produced from 2028 onwards.

‘We are grateful for the Bulgarian government’s confidence in our capabilities,’ said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG. ‘With the new production facility, we are further expanding our leading role as a manufacturer of artillery ammunition to continue supporting the defence capabilities of the European Union and NATO.’

About Rheinmetall: As an integrated technology group, the listed company Rheinmetall AG, headquartered in Düsseldorf, stands for a company that is as strong in substance as it is successful internationally, and that is active in various markets with an innovative range of products and services. Rheinmetall is a leading international systems supplier in the defence industry and at the same time a driver of forward-looking technological and industrial innovations in the civilian markets. With 40,000 employees on 174 sites word wide, Rheinmetall generated sales €9.8 billion in 2024.

Flux Defense Launches the Innovative Antimatter Scopeswitch 2.0 — The Ultimate Control for Precision Shooting

October 30th, 2025

Elevate your shooting experience with the new Scopeswitch 2.0, a game-changing device that combines rapid magnification adjustment with unmatched durability and versatility.

Salt Lake City, Utah — Flux Defense, a leader in advanced firearm accessories, is proud to announce the launch of the Antimatter Scopeswitch 2.0, the latest evolution in scope control technology. Designed for armed professionals, hunters, and competitive shooters alike, the Scopeswitch 2.0 offers a seamless way to control magnification while maintaining full engagement with your target.

“Every product here at Flux Defense has a pure focus: making it faster, lighter, and stronger. Most users rarely utilize the full range of zoom capabilities on their LPVOs. They set their scope to the needed power, use a red dot for close targets, and adjust magnification for longer ranges. The Scopeswitch 2.0 allows you to have a faster, positive ID on your target and greatly enhance situational awareness. It lets you smoothly and quickly zoom in and out without breaking your grip or losing your focus.”

Arrius Sorbonne, Co-owner of Flux Defense

“It’s one of the strongest, lightest mounts available that does more than simply hold your optic.”

Arrius Sorbonne, Co-owner of Flux Defense

Key Features & Benefits:

Innovative Guard System: Allows users to adjust magnification without taking their eye off the target—ideal for high-pressure scenarios, rapid target transitions, and dynamic hunting environments.

Precision Materials: Constructed from rugged 7075 T6 aircraft-grade aluminum and 4140 nitrided steel lugs, ensuring maximum strength with minimal weight.

Optimized Height: The 1.93-inch optical centerline supports upright shooting postures, compatibility with plate carriers, and passive aiming with night vision devices.

Low Profile, High Performance: Compatible with rifles as short as 10.5 inches, though longer barrels are recommended for optimal velocity with 5.56 rounds. The device is perfect for a wide range of tactical and sporting applications.

User Compatibility: Designed to work with scopes featuring low resistance zoom rings. Users are advised to test their optics for smooth operation prior to purchase; a detailed compatibility chart is available on the FAQ page.

What’s new on the Scopeswitch 2.0?

Competitive Pricing: We moved to a larger shop and have been able to streamlight production. Scopeswitch 2.0 price is $349.99

Stronger Hardware: We beefed up the cable clamp bolts to handle accidental over torquing during install

Ergonomics: Scopeswitch now includes our new Ergo-C-clamp slider with topo texture. Also ships with the deeper original slider.

Accessories: Now offering an optional pic rail riser giving you back valuable top “rail estate” for clip on thermal and nvg devices as well as a backup throw lever.

Scopeswitch 2.0 listing link: fluxdefense.com/shop/the-scopeswitch-2-0

Saab Receives Order for Giraffe 1X Radars from U.S. Army

October 30th, 2025

The U.S. Army has awarded Saab, Inc. a contract to provide Giraffe 1X radars in support of foreign partners. The order value for this award is approximately USD $46 million. The order was booked in Q3 2025.

Saab will provide Giraffe 1X systems with deliveries starting in 2026. The order underscores the growing demand for Saab’s advanced radar technology to strengthen air defense and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) capabilities worldwide.

“Saab’s Giraffe 1X radars bring the U.S. Army a combat-proven capability that can be rapidly deployed to meet the growing spectrum of global threats, including unmanned aircraft systems,” said Erik Smith, President and CEO of Saab, Inc. “What sets Giraffe 1X apart is its ability to combine advanced counter-UAS performance, at extended ranges, within a compact, mobile design that commanders can trust in any environment. With continuous, real-time air surveillance, Giraffe 1X equips the U.S. and its partners with a decisive operational advantage, ensuring they can stay ahead of emerging challenges.”

As a small, lightweight 3D radar, Giraffe 1X can be used as a mobile, deployable or fixed asset that can be integrated into both ground and naval platforms. With its true multi-mission capability—spanning force protection, ground-based air defense, and sea surface surveillance—Giraffe 1X is the first radar of its kind, delivering unmatched operational flexibility to commanders.

Auterion Successfully Completes Artemis Program to Deliver Long-Range Deep Strike Drone

October 30th, 2025

Arlington, VA – Auterion, a global leader in defense drone software and AI-enabled autonomous systems, today announced the successful completion of the Defense Innovation Unit’s Artemis project. The program delivered a deep strike drone proven in Ukraine with up to 1,000 miles range and visual targeting.

The Artemis system is a design similar to a Shahed drone, developed in Ukraine and with manufacturing lines being built in the U.S., Ukraine, and Germany. It offers a 1,000-mile range and can carry warheads of up to 40 kilograms. It relies on Auterion’s Skynode N mission computer and Auterion Visual Navigation system, enabling the drone to navigate and strike targets even when satellite-based navigation is disrupted. The built-in terminal guidance ensures pinpoint accuracy in the final stage of flight.

Auterion is partnered, for the Artemis program, with a Ukrainian hardware manufacturer, whose name is being kept confidential for operational security reasons. Auterion has built partnerships with U.S. and European manufacturers to scale up long range applications. Bringing learnings from the battlefield in Ukraine to U.S. forces and allied partners is a key contribution of Auterion to national security.

Government evaluators have signed off on the program after operational flight tests in Ukraine. The tests included ground launch, GPS and GPS?denied navigation, long-range transit, and terminal engagement. Following these successful evaluations, Auterion now offers the system to the U.S. Department of War and allied nations, with manufacturing capabilities established in both the United States and Europe.

“Software-driven autonomy is changing the nature of deterrence,” said Lorenz Meier, CEO of Auterion. “Our Artemis entrant is designed for mass production and rapid deployment, enabling partner nations to field resilient autonomous strike capabilities at scale. We are ready to build the long-range deterrence force needed to tackle new challenges, especially in the Indo?Pacific.”

The long range drone is part of Auterion’s larger portfolio of short to long-range, one-way attack drones being developed under U.S. defense initiatives. The system leverages Auterion’s open architecture and battle-tested software to ensure rapid adaptability and seamless integration within the broader defense ecosystem. This effort is building on the company’s proven track record of supplying AI?enabled strike kits to Ukraine.

With the Artemis program concluded, Auterion is entering the scale-up phase with the Department of War and allied partners to work towards co?production at mass scale. The company is committed to supporting domestic U.S. production while delivering a common software layer that ensures interoperability and continuous improvement. “This isn’t a black box. It’s a scalable platform that our partners can build and evolve,” Meier added.

auterion.com