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EOTECH Launches Super Short 4-12×36 Vudu Scope

January 13th, 2026

Plymouth, MI (January 2026) – EOTECH is proud to add to its family of super short optics, with the release of the Vudu 4-12×36 First Focal Plane rifle scope. The 4-12x shares similarities to EOTECH’s wildly popular 3-9×32 launched in 2025, but its first focal plane design gears this optic to the more tactical or professional user.

The 4-12x’s overall length is only 7.1”, making this optic ideal on even the shortest rifle or AR-pistol designs. &The scope body is constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum to be a compact, lightweight, but still incredibly durable package that is fog, water and shock resistant. Its 36mm objective lens allows for excellent light transmission, even in low-light, or dusk and dawn conditions.

A wide power band on the eyepiece makes transitioning from low to high magnification quick and easy and a substantial boss feature on the power ring makes it even faster. An adjustable diopter allows for precise focus for the individuals vision.

The scope’s turrets offer .1 MRAD adjustments and are both capped to protect from inclement weather or inadvertent adjustments. And, once the scope is zeroed, the turrets can quickly be reset to zero.

A rotary dial located on the left side of the optic provides an illuminated reticle with 10 brightness settings to help in dusk and dawn lighting conditions. A CR2032 is located next to the rotary dial providing roughly 300 hours of operation. The 4-12x sports the same XC high density, low dispersion multi-coated glass as its predecessors for excellent light transmission and scene clarity.

But what makes the 4-12x stand out from other magnified optics is its mounting interface. To minimize the overall length, EOTECH reduced the tube area typically used for mounting rings. Instead, a machined interface located at the bottom of the scope will adapt to the included EOTECH mount, or any aftermarket mini-ACOGÒ mounts, and mount directly on a mil-standard rail. This provides a 1.53” height above more, clearing most rear iron sights.

The first focal plane is preferred by more tactical users because the design allows quick range estimation and trajectory compensation at any magnification. In this design, the reticle and its sub-tensions, maintains its size relative to the target image. For those wanting a non-magnified solution, EOTECH offers an optional ring mount that can be attached to the slim, front tube section to mount an EFLX or other compatible micro sights. It can be positioned at the 12 o’clock position or at 45-degree offsets to give you immediate transitions for close or moving targets.

In the tactical world, size and weight are major factors in equipment decisions. The super short 4-12x is small in size, lightweight, packed with features, and ideal for any shooting situation. To learn more about this or any other EOTECH product, visit eotechinc.com

EOTECH Vudu 4-12×36 Riflescope Specifications

Magnification: 4-12x

Focal Plane: First

Color: Black

Tube Diameter: NA

Objective Lens: 36mm

Illuminated: Yes

Battery Type: CR2032

Overall Length: 7.1” (180.3mm)

Weight: 16.9 oz (479g)

Eye Relief: 4x: 2.5 – 3.1” (65-80mm), 12x: 2.4 – 3.0” (61-77mm)

Field-Of-View @ 100 Yards: 4x: 28.5 ft (8.6m), 12x: 9.5 ft (2.9m)

MSRP: Scope/$1,219 and Combo/$1,589.

Deliveries to begin Q1 2026.

For more information, please visit www.eotechinc.com

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

JMRC Trains World-Class OC/Ts

January 13th, 2026

HOHENFELS TRAINING AREA, Germany – The Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) has been training its Observer, Controller/Trainers (OC/T) in new technologies to keep its world-class training ready for the future fight.

The OC/Ts from the nine “critter” teams are being trained in evolving tasks and technologies such as Maven, electronic warfare (EW), unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), and integrated tactical network (ITN).

“This OC/T recertification training is an opportunity for the OC/Ts to become proficient on some tasks that are constantly changing and new,” said Maj. Dustin Allen, deputy operations for JMRC. “It’s to meet higher headquarters’ intents of knowing new technologies so that we can better facilitate the rotational units as they come through ‘the Box’.”

One of the systems that the OC/Ts are training on is the Maven Smart System. The Maven Smart System is the Department of Defense’s most prominent artificial intelligence capability. Designed to process drone imagery and full-motion video, Maven integrates sensors with artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance battlefield awareness and support operations such as targeting, logistics planning and predicting supply requirements for deployed Soldiers.

“Maven is something that is near and dear to (U.S. Army Europe and Africa’s) heart,” said Allen. “We are trying to incorporate it into our daily battle rhythms, so that the critter teams are well versed in it. We also want to be able to teach the rotational units that come through that aren’t familiar with the system and get them better with it.”

OC/Ts have also been working with UAS. UAS training develops Soldiers’ abilities to operate and employ aerial systems in support of reconnaissance, intelligence collection, and mission planning, helping to facilitate the combined arms fight on the ground.

“UAS is a big push, especially in past rotations where we have seen a massive increase in UAS capabilities on the battlefield,” said Allen. “OC/Ts are going to have their own UAS so that they can send a drone up and inject it there, and watch the rotational units’ UAS.”

Another system that has been seen on the battlefield that OC/Ts are being trained on is EW. EW enhances commanders’ abilities to detect, disrupt and protect against enemy electromagnetic capabilities, enabling freedom-of-action across the battlefield.

“Big in current warfare is the introduction of electronic warfare,” said Allen. “During this time, we are giving the OC/Ts the opportunity to see and become familiar with the vastly growing EW capabilities.”

The last system that the OC/Ts are being trained on is the ITN. ITN delivers secure, resilient and expeditionary communications that connect Soldiers, platforms and command posts across the battlefield. ITN is designed to operate in contested and degraded environments, and enable timely data sharing and mission command to support multi-domain operations.

“You can interconnect the radios that we use for our communications network across Hohenfels and JMRC, so we can communicate more clearly across the box,” said Allen.

“Our OC/Ts are already world-class,” said Allen. “This training can help make them even better and have more systems that they are proficient in. We’re really going to see all this hard work they are putting in, be used in the next Combine Resolve we host, and I’m excited to see them use all these new systems we have.”

Story by SGT Collin Mackall

7th Army Training Command

Posted in AI / ML, Army, Drone, EW, Guest Post, Training | No Comments »

Germany Buys Eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian RPA Through NSPA

January 13th, 2026

NSPA Supports NATO Countries in the Acquisition and Sustainment of GA-ASI’s Advanced Multi-Domain RPA

SAN DIEGO – 12 January 2026 – Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support and the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) have announced the procurement of eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). The program includes four Certifiable Ground Control Stations. First delivery is expected in 2028.

Germany joins a growing list of NATO countries that have selected GA-ASI’s advanced MQ-9B RPA for its multi-domain capabilities with exceptionally long range and endurance. The platform provides pole-to-pole satellite control and de-icing capabilities to enable missions in cold climates. SeaGuardian features two multi-mode surface-search radars that deliver wide-area maritime surveillance, with an option to add Anti-Submarine Warfare capability. Additionally, MQ-9B’s in-house-developed Detect and Avoid System aids its ability to fly in unsegregated airspace for domestic civilian operations, making it highly versatile for operations from Germany.

In 2025, MQ-9B became the first large RPA to obtain a Military Type Certificate from the UK’s Military Aviation Authority, certifying its safe operation without geographic restrictions, including over populous areas.

“We’re thrilled that Germany has joined the list of NATO countries that have selected MQ-9B SeaGuardian,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “The proliferation of MQ-9B in Europe delivers commonality between NATO countries and for Germany, it will provide opportunities for interoperability with their fleet of P-8As.”

The acquisition negotiation was executed on behalf of Germany by NSPA, which has developed a contractual framework through the MQ-9 Support Partnership (MIC SP) for supporting cooperation amongst its member nations and enabling the procurement of MQ-9B for NATO Allies and Partners. NSPA has added MQ-9B to its portfolio of defense systems to contract on behalf of NATO nations, with the goal of enhancing interoperability for joint training and operations.

“This Support Partnership demonstrates how NSPA enables efficient, effective and responsive multinational acquisitions for advanced, interoperable capabilities. We are proud to support Germany in this strategic investment for maritime surveillance and security,” said Ms. Stacy A. Cummings, NSPA General Manager.

MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian® models as well as the Protector RG Mk1 that is currently being delivered to the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF). GA-ASI also has MQ-9B procurement contracts with Belgium, Canada, Denmark, India, Japan, Poland, Taiwan and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command and is looking forward to welcoming Germany to that group. MQ-9B has also been featured in various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, RIMPAC, and Group Sail.

Posted in Contracts, International, NSPA, Press Release, UAS | No Comments »

Magnet Defense Enters into Definitive Agreement to Acquire ATG to Accelerate Integration of AI-Enabled Autonomy Solutions for National Security

January 12th, 2026

MIAMI, Jan. 9, 2026 — Today, Magnet Defense LLC, a developer of fully autonomous national security maritime platforms for fleet operations and missile defense missions, announces that it has officially entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Advanced Technology Group (ATG), subject to customary closing conditions. This acquisition further enhances Magnet Defense’s autonomy solutions by incorporating ATG’s open-architecture AI solutions into its DefendAI battlespace management suite. These are the brains and backbone behind Magnet Defense’s end-to-end AI-enabled autonomous maritime defense solutions.

ATG delivers end-to-end development and integration of advanced Command and Control and Artificial Intelligence capabilities for air, space, maritime, and surface platforms. With an elite group of mission architects, AI integrators, and software engineers, ATG is solving some of the U.S. Department of War’s most difficult challenges across all domains. ATG’s capabilities will accelerate Magnet Defense’s seamless integration of its platforms into theater and operational battlespace management systems.

Magnet Defense intends to begin aligning and integrating ATG’s Autonomy Exchange for Interoperable Modularity (AXIOM) AI-enabled autonomy stack with its own proven autonomy capabilities. AXIOM’s set of proven mission modules will streamline Magnet Defense’s integration into the native command and control systems found in military services, operations centers, and combatant commands across the sea, land, air, space, and cyber domains. ATG’s leadership and employees will continue to support existing customers while contributing to expanded programs across the combined organization.

About Magnet Defense
Magnet Defense is a developer of fully autonomous national security maritime platforms for fleet operations and missile defense missions. We integrate AI-driven software solutions, advanced manufacturing systems, and mission architecture expertise to deliver the most advanced purpose-built USVs for the U.S. and allied militaries. Learn more at www.magnetdefense.com

Posted in AI / ML, Industry, Maritime, Press Release | No Comments »

Holosun Announces AEMS-EVO-DUAL

January 12th, 2026

Meet the Holosun AEMS-EVO-DUAL.

One optic built for every lighting condition.

With a precision red dot, integrated visible green laser, and infrared laser all in one rugged housing, the AEMS-EVO-DUAL delivers seamless performance from bright daylight to full night-vision use. A wide 1.26 inch window and selectable reticle options keep your sight picture fast, clear, and adaptable.

Included with every unit is a single Crane-plug dual-button pressure pad, giving you instant, intuitive control of the laser systems when it matters most.

Solar Failsafe, Shake Awake, CR123A power, and IPX8 waterproofing round out a setup designed for reliability without overcomplication.

Posted in Lights, Optics | 1 Comment »

Range USA Promotes Jimmy McManus to Chief Operating Officer

January 12th, 2026

CINCINNATI, Ohio – January 9, 2026 – Range USA, the nation’s premier indoor gun range and firearm retailer, announced the promotion of Jimmy McManus to Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately. The promotion is part of a strategic organizational realignment designed to accelerate growth and enhance operational excellence across the company’s 50 locations in 14 states, with more coming in 2026.

In his new role, McManus will be responsible for day-to-day operations spanning store operations, accounting, marketing, merchandising, membership, customer experience, training and ecommerce, with a major focus on revenue generation, profitability and scaling the business. McManus will own P&L performance and EBITDA delivery while leading strategic initiatives to maximize sales growth and operational efficiency.

“Jimmy has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision during his tenure as vice president of merchandising,” said Thomas Willingham, Founder and CEO of Range USA. “His proven ability to drive sales performance, identify growth opportunities and build high-performing teams while expanding his responsibilities makes him the ideal leader to guide our sales organization as we continue to grow.”

Since joining Range USA in 2019 as vice president of merchandising, McManus has transformed the company’s merchandising, marketing and ecommerce strategy and significantly enhanced the customer experience across all locations. Under his leadership, Range USA has implemented data-driven approaches, expanded sales, margin and overall company performance, while cementing its position as the premier destination for firearms, ammunition and accessories.

“I’m excited to take on this expanded role at such a pivotal time for Range USA as we lay the foundation for the future,” said McManus. “This will allow us to remove any barriers we have in store and allow us to align the entire team with a focus on taking care of our great customers by fulfilling every part of their firearms journey.”

Range USA is the nation’s largest indoor shooting range operator and firearms retailer, serving over 10 million range customers since 2012. In 2024 alone, the company welcomed 350,000 first-time shooters to the sport, demonstrating its commitment to expanding participation in the shooting sports and promoting responsible gun ownership.

For more information about Range USA, visit RangeUSA.com. Follow along on Facebook and Instagram.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

Integrated Multi-Threat Headborne System Prototype to be Funded and Developed for US ARMY

January 12th, 2026

Under a U.S. Army-funded initiative, Team Wendy Ceradyne and Theon International partner to develop an Integrated Multi-Threat Headborne System (IMHS) prototype set to enhance soldier protection and situational awareness.Salem, New Hampshire – January 12th, 2026 – Team Wendy Ceradyne, a leading US-based developer and manufacturer of advanced combat helmets for the Department of Defense, and Theon International, a global company specializing in electro-optical systems including night vision, thermal imaging, and augmented reality (AR) technologies, have announced a strategic partnership under a US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Soldier Center (SC)-funded initiative. Together, the companies are developing a next generation Integrated Multi-Threat Headborne System (IMHS) designed to enhance Soldier protection, situational awareness, and lethality across multi-domain operations.

“With Army support and strong industry partnerships, we’re advancing head protection into a fully integrated helmet system — combining ballistic protection with enhanced situational awareness,” said Erik Cobham, President of Team Wendy Ceradyne. “This shift fundamentally changes how Soldiers perceive, decide, and respond on the battlefield.”

Conducted under a shared-cost model between the US government and industry partners, the program integrates Team Wendy Ceradyne’s proven ballistic protection technologies with Theon’s advanced electronic systems. The result will be a modular head borne architecture capable of delivering tailored, mission critical technologies – including seamless communications integration – adaptable to future operational requirements.

“We are honored to partner with the exceptional Team Wendy Ceradyne on this critical US Army initiative,” said Dr. Michalis Kolotos, Director of US Operations for THEON. “This collaboration is a prime opportunity to integrate our advanced THEON NEXT opto-electronic solutions, which are a direct result of our technological knowhow and our strategic investments in the US. We are focused on delivering head borne power and data solutions that could enable next-generation capabilities, such as advanced day-and-night Head-Up Displays (HUDs) and Augmented Reality (AR), all seamlessly connected to the soldier’s Power and Battle Management System. This integration is key to enhancing situational awareness and decision-making for the US warfighter.”

The DEVCOM SC-sponsored team also includes Invisio, providing lightweight tactical communications and hearing protection, and Revision, contributing ballistic and laser protective eyewear. The IMHS prototype developed in this project will be evaluated by the DEVCOM Soldier Center in Fourth Quarter, FY26, during a Soldier Touchpoint to assess performance and gather user feedback for future design phases.

Posted in Contracts, Helmets, Press Release | 2 Comments »

EOTECH Launches the OGL-C Commercial Laser System

January 12th, 2026

Plymouth, MI (January 2026) – EOTECH is proud to introduce the OGL-C. This commercial variant provides all the features and benefits of the standard OGL but with eye-safe visible and IR lasers and IR illumination.

Available in either Black or Tan, the OGL-C can be mounted on any side of the rifle’s handguard, but the primary position is on the top rail. Ample separation between the lasers and the IR illuminator ensures no interference with front iron sights. Only slightly larger than a deck of cards, the housing incorporates strategic cuts and channels to reduce unnecessary weight.

“We are excited to get the consumer friendly OGL out into the market” said Mark Miller, EOTECH Product Manager. “This product was designed and developed with ergonomics in mind, as well as a feature set that is sure to satisfy the more sophisticated tactical user.”

Stacked vertically on the front of the OGL-C are the visible and IR lasers. Both lasers are co-aligned and share windage and elevation adjustments, making the zeroing procedure easy. Positioned on the other side is an adjustable illuminator that provides quick beam divergence from a close-range flood to a long-range spot using the sliding adjustment lever. Powered by (1) CR123 battery, the 515-nanometer green visible laser is 6 times easier to see than red lasers and offers .5 milliwatts of power on HIGH. It’s 850-nanometer IR laser provides almost .7 milliwatts at high power. And finally, the 850-nanometer IR illuminator can quickly shift from an approximate 105 MRAD flood to an approximate 30 MRAD beam. Both the lasers and illuminator come equipped with lens covers that provide diffusion.

Additional features include a large, raised, tactile laser fire button that can be located easily, even in the dark, and pressed for momentary operation, or a quick double tap for constant on. At the rear of the OGL-C is an industry standard remote jack that takes most pigtail switches or hot buttons. Selecting the laser or laser illumination combination is easy with the tactile mode selector streamlined to the rear of the housing.

The OGL-C is eye-safe, consumer friendly and the new standard for on-gun laser systems and stealth operations. MSRP is $2,999.

For more information, please visit www.eotechinc.com

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