Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Nellis AFB to Gain Electronic Warfare Squadron

January 11th, 2026

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

The Department of the Air Force has selected Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, as the preferred and final location for the 562nd Electronic Warfare Squadron.

The 562nd EWS, assigned to the 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing, will be co-located with the United States Air Force Warfare Center to streamline electromagnetic spectrum operations.

The mission of the 350th SWW is to deliver adaptive and cutting-edge electronic spectrum capabilities that provide the warfighter a tactical and strategic competitive advantage and freedom to attack, maneuver, and defend.

The activation of the 562nd EWS will allow the USAFWC to deliver advanced, realistic training that incorporates electronic warfare concepts, tactics, and techniques, ensuring warfighters are better equipped to operate in contested electronic environments.

The environmental analysis was completed in summer 2025. The service plans for initial operational capability by summer 2026 and full operational capability by summer 2028.

Nevada will gain 59 active-duty authorizations.

Via Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, EW, Forces Focus, Guest Post | No Comments »

DroneShield Renews Support for ADF Drone Racing Team for 2026

January 10th, 2026

7 January 2026 – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-drone technology, today announced its continued support of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Drone Racing Team for 2026.

Building on a strong partnership showcased at Avalon 2025 and in previous years, DroneShield’s involvement with the ADF Drone Racing Team extends beyond traditional sponsorship. The?collaboration has focused on sharing expertise and fostering innovation in drone operations, including initiatives such as DroneShield pilots engaging with ADF Drone Racing activities to promote skills development and knowledge exchange.

Oleg Vornik, Chief Executive of DroneShield said, “The ADF Drone Racing Team continues to set the benchmark for advanced drone operations, and we’re proud to support their journey in?2026. This collaboration is about more than racing. It’s about building the skills and technologies that will define the next generation of Defence capability.”

Wing Commander Keirin Joyce, President of the ADF Drone Racing Team said, “Our partnership with DroneShield helps drive innovation across Defence. By combining the expertise of pilots from the ADF drone racing team with cutting-edge counter-drone technology, we create a unique environment for testing, learning, and advancing Australia’s operational edge.”

Image: ADF Drone Racing Team with DroneShield team

DroneShield’s continued support underscores its commitment to advancing Australian Defence initiatives that drive innovation and technical excellence. In March 2026, the ADF Drone Racing Team will defend its world title for a sixth time at the Military International Drone Racing Tournament in Sydney, further highlighting Australia’s leadership in drone technology and operational capability.

Posted in Drone, Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Pylon Syndicate MX

January 10th, 2026

The Pylon Syndicate MXP is a next-generation +5 base pad extension for Gen3 PMAG magazines — The unit installs without tools and features a patent-pending spring-locked detent push-pin system, making it one of the most user-friendly magazine extensions on the market. Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the United States, it adds capacity (5 rounds on PMAG 10/20/30; 6 rounds on PMAG 40) while maintaining lightweight, rugged performance. The MXP has a CNC aluminum housing and QP nitride 4140 PH steel pin held in place with existing AR-15lower kit parts.

• Made in the USA: Fully designed, engineered, and manufactured in the United States (even our card stock and clam packs are made in USA).

• Scalable product line: With further Pylon-tech offerings (including 7.62 PMAG and Glock versions just around the bend), this product line is positioned to change the magazine extension standard industry-wide.

Our Manufacturing Advantage

We offer a vertically integrated suite of manufacturing capabilities that can take on any level of domestic production in the small arms space. FFL/SOT, ISO, AS9100:D | ISO9001:2015. If you make things that like to fly or go to space we can do that too.

• Full Design & Drafting Services: Our engineering team stands ready to support custom design, prototyping, and iterative development — from concept to first articles.

• Robust OEM Network: We maintain a domestic OEM ecosystem with access to multi-axis CNC machining resources, including 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC stations, precision fabrication partners, and finishing houses (DLC, Ano, Cerakote).

• Rapid Turnaround + Scalability: Leveraging vertical integration and premier partner capabilities, we can support accelerated delivery schedules without compromising quality or compliance. If you’ve got prints, we can move fast.

pylonsyndicate.com

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | No Comments »

Ocufii Official Safety Technology Sponsor at Industry Day at the Range 2026

January 10th, 2026

BOULDER CITY, Nev. – January 7, 2026 – SHOT Show® Industry Day at the Range, the highly anticipated hands-on event held annually the day before SHOT Show, is excited to announce Ocufii as the official Safety Technology Sponsor of the 2026 event, taking place January 19, 2026, at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada.

Ocufii recently launched its powerful set of free personal safety features inside its mobile app. TagMe™ Assist is a dedicated safety module designed to turn smartphones into essential protection and safety tools for everyday life, unexpected situations, and emergencies. These one-tap alerts include automatic 911 and 988 dialers, among others. The full app and TagMe Assist features are available for free on the App Store and Google Play. More information is available now at ocufii.com.

Ocufii also debuted Ocufii Core for organizations at a launch event in December 2025 and will showcase it at Industry Day at the Range by way of actual use. Ocufii core allows administrators to seamlessly manage TagMe Assist, TagMe Alert and TagMe Secure devices on one platform. The Industry Day at the Range staff will implement this as part of the pre-event, at-event and post-event process. And select exhibitors will also be using TagMe Alert FlexiTag Beacons and TagMe Secure connected locks.

This will entail more than 20 individuals using the Ocufii App and/or TapAssist Mobile Wearable Card to allow show management a comprehensive, real-time view of their entire staff and support team. TagMe Alert and TagMe Secure products will paint the picture of the safety ecosystem. Features will include an alert console, location sharing and mapping for situation awareness and tools that empower the organization to protect their people, attendees and assets efficiently.

“We’re thrilled to have Ocufii on board as the Safety Technology Sponsor,” said Kelsey Puryear, Industry Day at the Range co-owner. “Its cutting-edge solutions bring an added layer of safety and efficiency to our operations, allowing our staff to focus on delivering an exceptional experience for our exhibitors and attendees. We also see fantastic benefits in our daily lives as parents, spouses, fellow industry organizations and colleagues can use Ocufii technology and products in a variety of ways centered around safety and security.”

Each Industry Day at the Range attendee will also be able to download the Ocufii App and use TagMe Assist right away. With a streamlined setup, users can activate TagMe™ Assist and start protecting themselves right away. Optional upgrades unlock advanced features, including multiple recipients, enhanced alert types and expanded monitoring capabilities—making Ocufii a flexible safety solution for every lifestyle.

Firearm owners will be especially interested in its TagMe Secure line which provides security and prevents unauthorized access to firearms. Connected trigger, cable and slide locks offer secure, non-location-based movement notifications. This means firearm owners can add a layer of technology to industry-standard equipment such as on-firearm locks, as well as safes, drawers, cases and more.

“We built TagMe Assist to be simple, powerful and accessible,” said William Sandoval, CEO and Founder of Ocufii. “Safety should never be a luxury. Whether you’re a parent, a traveler, a lone worker or a first responder—this app is for you. For firearm owners, TagMe Secure integrates seamlessly into our Ocufii App for a comprehensive platform they can trust. We can’t wait to attend Industry Day at the Range and are ecstatic that Kelsey and the ownership group will use our platform and devices to enhance their long-standing and prestigious event.”

How the TagMe Assist App Works

One-Tap Alerts: Send safety alerts and share locations with a trusted contact—instantly, with a single tap

Real-Time Location Sharing: Location updates every 60 seconds during active alerts help recipients track user movement and respond faster

Customizable Alert Types Include:

Emergency
Feeling Unsafe
Active Shooter,
Automatic 911 dialer
Automatic 988 dialer

Recipient Management: Easily choose who gets notified. Upgrades let users add more contacts, assign roles, and tailor alerts to each situation

Device Integration: Works seamlessly with iOS and Android smartphones, so users can stay protected without extra hardware or setup

Industry Day at the Range offers a unique opportunity for exhibitors to showcase new products, engage with top media and influencers, and connect directly with SHOT Show attendees in a hands-on setting. By partnering with Ocufii, the event is further solidifying its reputation as a leader in innovation and safety in the shooting sports industry.

The sponsorship by Ocufii highlights a personal safety product that can also scale and provide a professional and business solution that ensures safety and operational efficiency in large-scale events. Ocufii’s TagMe™ system brings added credibility to Industry Day at the Range, reinforcing its commitment to safety and professionalism.

Supported by the National Shooting Sports Foundation as title sponsor through 2028, Industry Day at the Range remains the only official range event associated with the SHOT Show. Exhibitor space is limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged.

For more information about the 2026 SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range visit ShotShowRangeDay.com.

Posted in Industry, Press Release, SHOT Show | No Comments »

Huckberry – ShadowFleece Hoodie

January 10th, 2026

Made by Proof, this hoodie caught my eye the other day as I perused my internet feed. What I like about it is that it is made from Polartec Alpha, a highly breathable insulation. I own a couple of garments that use this material and I really like it. Like I said, it’s breathable and doesn’t make me feel like I’m overheating while moving yet offers a nice layer of air when worn as a layer underneath a shell. Other than that, it’s a pretty straight forward design.

Offered in XS – XXL in Olive or Silver.

huckberry.com/store/proof/category/p/93941-shadowfleece-hoodie

Posted in Clothing | No Comments »

Breaking Barriers: Jeremy Chambers Becomes First NCO to Commission as Captain in Foreign Affairs

January 10th, 2026

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii – In a milestone moment for the United States Army and U.S. Army Pacific, U.S. Army Master Sgt. Jeremy Chambers, of the Security Cooperation Division at the U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC), Fort Shafter, Hawaii, has shattered expectations and set a new precedent by becoming the first noncommissioned officer in Army history to commission directly as a U.S. Army Captain in the elite Foreign Area Officer (FAO) career field. His achievement marks a transformational step forward in Army talent management and showcases the extraordinary potential found within the enlisted corps.

Chambers’ historic transition did not arise overnight. For years, he has performed the duties and strategic coordination typically expected of a Foreign Area Officer—often at a level well above his rank. His proven track record is why multiple deputy commanding generals, beginning with Lt. Gen. Braga, now the commanding general of Joint Special Operations Command, have consistently advocated for his direct commission. Their support reflects a shared belief that Chambers had long been performing the duties of an FAO and deserved the formal authority and rank commensurate with his contributions.

“I can’t be thankful enough that the Army got it right when they chose to promote my husband,” said Sergeant Major Krystal Chambers, wife of Captain Jeremy Chambers. “I think he has accomplished something that not many will be able to do.”

The FAO program produces experts in regional studies, foreign languages, diplomacy, and international security cooperation. FAOs work alongside partner militaries, operate within U.S. embassies, and advise senior leaders at strategic levels. Entry into this field is highly selective and requires proven academic ability, operational experience, and strategic thinking.

“My hope with this entire direct commission was to help create a legacy and a pathway for other NCOs. Still, it’s more important now that we’ve created an opportunity for other NCOs, other enlisted Soldiers, to recognize that there’s another thing they can do,” Capt. Chambers said. “Your hard work can be recognized, and things can be done if you accomplish all of your tasks and do your job. The most significant impact, whether they have a specialized skill or not, is that they recognize your talents and abilities, and reward them in creative ways, as you see today.”

Throughout his distinguished enlisted career, Chambers excelled in key leadership roles, guided Soldiers through complex missions, and supported operations that required both tactical skill and strategic insight. These experiences positioned him uniquely for the FAO program’s rigorous demands.

As he begins his journey in the FAO program, Chambers will complete advanced academic studies, regional cultural training, and intensive language development. He will be prepared for future assignments, including embassy roles, multinational coordination, and high-level international engagement missions. At the ceremony, U.S. Army Gen. Ronald Clark, commanding general of the U.S. Army’s largest Service Component Command, U.S. Army Pacific, highlighted the years of strategic leadership and mentorship that contributed to this significant milestone.

“We all know that the promotion comes from the determination by senior leaders who individually possess the potential for increased responsibility,” Clark said. “I have to give credit to the number of senior leaders at this headquarters who have gone to other assignments or are in retirement, who have shaped this action, which took many years to develop. It started with Lieutenant General John Braga, who had the tremendous idea to commission Jeremy as an officer.”

Chambers’ commissioning represents not only a historic achievement for the unit but a powerful symbol of what dedication, excellence, and vision can accomplish within the Army’s ranks.

By SGT Qishaunia Hawkins

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Profession of Arms | No Comments »

Dark Storm Industries Introduces the DS-25 Modern Fighting Rifle

January 9th, 2026

The AR-15 sized, 6.5 Creedmoor rifle that is built to out reach, out last and out perform

ROCKLEDGE, FLORIDA — [January 9, 2026] — Dark Storm Industries (DSI) today announced the new DS-25 Modern Fighting Rifle (MFR). Initially available in a 14.5” 6.5 Creedmoor, this small-frame, AR-15-size, sub 7lb, semi-auto rifle has been engineered from the ground up to deliver extended reach, improved reliability and durability, as well as fast handling. Built for an intermediate cartridge (.308 Win / 6.5 Creedmoor) on a true small-frame platform, the DS-25 MFR combines a match-grade 14.5” barrel with a reduced-mass operating system, advanced thermal management, and true ambidextrous controls. Finished in Cerakote H-265 Flat Dark Earth over hard-coat anodizing it is backed by DSI’s fully transferable lifetime warranty.

“Until now, shooters have been forced to choose between a compact rifle and true mid-range performance,” said Kevin Elder, Director of Business Development at Dark Storm Industries. “The DS-25 MFR 14.5″ 6.5 Creedmoor was developed to erase that compromise — delivering fast handling with the stability, consistency, and durability serious users demand.”

Built for Reach — Designed for Durability

Starting at the muzzle, the DS-25 MFR features a 14.5″ medium taper profile, 416R stainless barrel, button-rifled and hand-lapped to achieve sub-MOA performance and an effective range of over 1000 yards. The barrel is electropolished and hard chrome lined for long-term durability and uses a mid-length gas system for a smooth, soft recoil impulse. The gas block is pinned to the barrel for rock-solid reliability. The rifle is available with traditional 1:8 twist or a 1:7, providing improved stability when firing heavier 140–150gr 6.5 Creedmoor loads, from the short barrel. The rifle comes standard with a Huxwrx 762-QD flash hider which can be pinned and welded for users seeking a non-NFA rifle setup. Alternate suppressor adapters and muzzle devices are available as well.

Free-Float Accuracy, Real Thermal Gains

The DS-25 MFR’s new 13″ M-Lok handguard mates to the upper receiver via DSI’s Multi-Lithic™ and Chainlink™ attachment systems, creating a true free-float system with no contact with the barrel nut, improving accuracy when shooting off bipods, barricades, or with forward grips. Like the DS-15 MFR, the handguard is indexed to the upper receiver with twin internal dowel pins for a clean, uninterrupted top rail. This allows more flexibility for mounting optics, illuminators and other accessories. A new aerospace-alloy heat sink barrel nut provides significantly improved thermal dissipation over standard steel barrel nuts. This helps maintain accuracy and reduces thermal-shift effects during rapid or extended firing cycles.

Ambidextrous Control, Reliable Cycling, Low-Lube Performance

The new billet receiver set is purpose-built for hard use. It features true, full, ambidextrous controls (mag release, bolt catch/release, safety selector and charging handle) and a 3.5lb flat faced two-stage trigger with DLC coating. The upper receiver and buffer tube feature a dry film solid lubricant for smoother cycling and reduced wear. The DSI ATACH™ ambidextrous charging handle with Duo-Lock™ provides a secure, repeatable grip. The levers are large enough to easily grab but small enough to not catch on clothing or kit. It latches onto serviceable steel lock pins on both sides of the upper providing redundancy against failure. A wrap-around rear cap significantly reduces gas to the shooter’s face — a detail suppressor-minded users will appreciate.

At the heart of the DS-25 MFR is its enhanced bolt carrier group. Machined from premium aircraft-quality steels and finished in an advanced tri-layer chrome/nickel/DLC system, it is designed for an extended service life and to provide reliable functioning with little to no lubrication. The bolt features enhanced geometry to mitigate the two most common bolt failure points and dual ejectors for consistent clearing of the larger brass.

Fighting-Rifle Ergonomics, Duty-Ready Details

The DS-25 MFR is outfitted with a Magpul DT carbine stock on a 7 position, extended buffer tube that features SOCOM style drain holes and triple rear vent holes for expelling gas and water. A matching Magpul K2+ rubber over-molded grip completes the control interface for fast, confident handling.

About Dark Storm Industries

Dark Storm Industries designs and manufactures American-made firearms and components in Rockledge, Florida, with a focus on durability, performance, and modern engineering. Each firearm is hand-assembled and individually tested then backed by a fully transferable lifetime warranty.

www.mfg.dark-storm.com

Posted in Black Rifle, Press Release | Comments Off on Dark Storm Industries Introduces the DS-25 Modern Fighting Rifle

WTF’s Back Panel 41 Mates Qore Performance ICEPLATE to PALS Platform

January 9th, 2026

WTF’s Back Panel 41 mates a Qore Performance ICEPLATE® (Gen 2) securely to your PALS/MOLLE platform. A low profile, contoured design protects your ICEPLATE® (Gen 2) from abrasion and UV. Optional shock cord routes through laser cut holes to offer quick, low profile load lashing for lightweight items like a windbreaker. A 2′ x 5″ loop panel offers ample real estate for names tags, IFF, morale patches, and similar.

Back Panel 41 is made in the USA with Berry & NIR compliant MIL-DTL-32439 500D nylon, Brookwood® Squadron-B52® laminate, VELCRO® A-A-55126 nylon hook & loop, VELCRO® ONE-WRAP®, A-A-59826 bonded nylon thread, and well compensated, skilled labor to produce a durable, cost effective part.

Please see product pics for PALS footprint. 4.2oz / 116g.

wtfidea.com

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, PALS | No Comments »