Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Defence Investment Agency Awards Contract to Replace Current Canadian Armed Forces assault rifles

March 19th, 2026

March 19, 2026 – Kitchener, Ontario

The Government of Canada is committed to rebuilding, rearming and reinvesting in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) to ensure they receive the equipment they need to achieve mission success and protect Canadians.

Today, the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement), and the Minister of National Defence, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, announced that the Defence Investment Agency has awarded a contract to Colt Canada of Kitchener, Ontario, to acquire up to 65,402 assault rifle systems under the Canadian Modular Assault Rifle (CMAR) initiative. By awarding this contract to Colt Canada, the Government of Canada is reinforcing the recently announced Defence Industrial Strategy and its commitment to invest in Canadian innovation.

The CMAR project will be delivered through 2 phases:

Phase 1 includes procuring 30,000 General Service (GS) rifles over a three-year period. The estimated value of this initial phase is approximately $307 million, including applicable taxes.

Phase 2, which is expected to begin in year four under an optional provision, will include procuring the remaining 19,207 GS rifles, 16,195 Full Spectrum (FS) rifles, as well as associated ancillaries.

This contract will provide a modern replacement for the current C7/C8 assault rifle fleet, which has been in service for more than 35 years. The new rifles will enhance the awareness, protection, and reliability of deployed CAF members. The project also includes system integration and engineering support.

The investment will bolster Canada’s defence industrial base for years to come, creating good?paying jobs and contributing roughly $10 million annually to Canada’s GDP over the next five years. Colt Canada’s commitment to include at least 80% Canadian content will also generate opportunities for suppliers across the country. Further economic benefits are expected under the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy, which ensures that defence procurements generate long?term, high?value investments in Canada.

This contract is part of the first wave of high-priority defence procurements to be implemented by the Defence Investment Agency. The Agency play a central role in implementing Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy by engaging industry earlier in the procurement process, supporting innovation and aligning procurement strategies with long-term military and industrial priorities.

Together, the Defence Investment Agency and the Defence Industrial Strategy are making generational investments in Canada’s defence ecosystem—transforming how Canada equips its military, strengthening domestic supply chains, and ensuring the Canadian Armed Forces have the equipment they need to keep Canada safe and sovereign.

To replace the current service rifle, the DIA made a deliberate decision to advance CMAR through a direct acquisition for asset replacement, and advanced the procurement using a Risk?Based Approach (RBA). These actions reflect Canada’s commitment to streamlining processes and accelerating the delivery of equipment to the CAF. This investment supports Canada’s efforts to meet its NATO defence spending targets, while ensuring the CAF has the modern equipment needed to respond to evolving operational demands.

“Providing modern, reliable capabilities to the Canadian Armed Forces is central to the Defence Investment Agency’s mission, and our streamlined approach will deliver this capability to our troops faster. This contract with Colt Canada advances Canada’s new Defence Industrial Strategy by strengthening domestic production, creating good?paying jobs, and growing our economy. By investing in advanced systems and Canadian expertise, we are ensuring our Forces remain ready for the challenges ahead while building a stronger, more resilient defence industry at home.”

The Honourable Stephen Fuhr
Secretary of State (Defence Procurement)

“Today’s announcement reflects our government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the Canadian Armed Forces have the capabilities they need to protect Canadians and contribute to global security. The Canadian Modular Assault Rifle project is an important step in modernizing the equipment our service members rely on every day. By investing in modern, reliable tools and working with a trusted Canadian partner, we are supporting the operational readiness of our Armed Forces while strengthening Canada’s defence industry and the skilled workforce behind it.“

The Honourable David J. McGuinty
Minister of National Defence

“Today’s announcement is a win for Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces. Rifles remain foundational to soldier effectiveness in the field, and this development brings over 40 years of technology evolution to Canada’s fighting forces. This represents tangible progress, and a clear example of how we can move with greater agility to bring modern, reliable equipment to soldiers. It is about delivering the Army Canada needs, today, and into the future.”

Lieutenant-General M.C. Wright
Commander Canadian Army

On February 17, 2026, the Prime Minister launched Canada’s first Defence Industrial Strategy to transform our defence industries by prioritising Canadian suppliers and materials, investing in Canadian innovation and commercialisation, and streamlining procurement to give businesses consistent and predictable demand.

On October 2, 2025, the Prime Minister announced the creation of the Defence Investment Agency. This new special operating agency was established to strengthen Canada’s defence procurement system. It marks a major advancement in modernizing the process, aimed at rebuilding, rearming, and reinvesting in the Canadian Armed Forces to address evolving global threats and meet operational requirements.

The newly established Defence Investment Agency is modernizing defence procurement for the Government of Canada. The Agency is accelerating mission-critical equipment delivery to the CAF by centralizing expertise and streamlining decisions.

Under this contract, up to 65,402 modern assault rifles will be delivered: 16,195 will be the FS variant, while the remaining 49,207 will be the GS variant.

The FS variant is designed for front-line combat roles. It is optimized for offensive operations in urban and open terrain, and it has advanced features for soldiers in Regular Infantry units. The GS variant is intended for broader use across the CAF. It provides reliable personal protection and deterrence for personnel who are not in primary combat roles.

The ammunition to be produced as part of the CMAR initiative will also be made in Canada.

The CMAR contract was advanced under a Risk?Based Approach (RBA), through which a procurement is managed according to its level of complexity and risk . This approach ensures that procurements receive Treasury Board (TB) approvals and oversight appropriate to their complexity, enabling timely delivery for the CAF by streamlining processes.

The Munitions Supply Program, established in 1974, ensures that the CAF have reliable sources of supply in Canada for ammunition, small arms and related equipment. Equipment is purchased from designated domestic facilities that serve as strategic sources of supply and centres of excellence. The MSP supports the development of a competitive Canadian defence industry, creating long-term economic benefits and thousands of jobs across the country.

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, weapons | 16 Comments »

America’s Most Advanced Mobile Tactical Cannon, SIGMA, on Display at AUSA Global Force in Huntsville, Alabama

March 19th, 2026

The ONLY fielded, wheeled howitzer, made in the U.S.A. that delivers revolutionary 360-degree firing, mobility, lethality, and survivability

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – March 18, 2026?– SIGMA, Elbit Systems of America’s (Elbit America) fielded offering for the United States Army’s Self-Propelled Howitzer Modernization program will be on rare display at the AUSA Global Force Symposium and Exhibition in Huntsville, Alabama, March 24-26, 2026.

Built in Charleston, South Carolina, SIGMA stands alone as the only self-propelled wheeled howitzer manufactured in the U.S. With advanced maneuverability, SIGMA’s 10×10 platform successfully moves with brigade combat teams across complex terrain and can shoot and scoot in less than 60 seconds.

Delivering exclusive 360-degree firing, SIGMA is equipped with an automated 155mm turret and is the only self-propelled wheeled cannon that can fire all variations of 155mm munitions in the U.S. Army’s arsenal. In the field, SIGMA serves with a 40-round onboard magazine and can shoot an astounding eight rounds per minute – all while keeping its three-person crew well protected in the armored cab.

“SIGMA was designed to deliver real overmatch, so Soldiers can fight, survive, and win in the most contested environments,” said Luke Savoie, President and CEO of Elbit America. “This platform provides the might and modernization our U.S. Army artillery formations demand. SIGMA is built for Warriors, made with American grit, and it’s ready now.”

In partnership with Oshkosh Defense, providers of the artillery system’s vehicle base, Elbit America’s SIGMA will be on display in Oshkosh’s booth, 411, just across the aisle from Elbit America in booth 532. Both are inside the South Hall of the Von Braun Center. The exhibit hall is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 24-25, and 9 a.m. to noon on March 26.

Experience firsthand what American-made artillery dominance looks like with Elbit America’s SIGMA Mobile Tactical Cannon.

www.elbitamerica.com/sigma

Posted in AUSA, Fires, Press Release | No Comments »

Icon Defense Unveils Monolithic Upper Receiver Systems After a Year of Anticipation

March 19th, 2026

The Monolithic platform sets a new industry benchmark with its advanced one-piece construction, delivering unmatched rigidity and precision alignment for modern rifle builders.

(Tumwater, WA] — [March 20, 2026) – Icon Defense today announced the official release of its highly anticipated Monolithic Upper Receiver Systems, first unveiled at SHOT Show 2025. Engineered for performance-driven shooters and builders, the new lineup introduces a fully integrated, one-piece design that enhances strength, precision, and reliability across AR-15 platforms.

Precision-machined from billet aluminum, each monolithic upper combines the receiver and handguard into a continuous structure. This design eliminates traditional flex points, resulting in exceptional rigidity, improved rail alignment, and consistent shot-to-shot performance.

“Monolithic construction represents a significant step forward in platform stability and performance,” said Dave Roberts of Icon Defense. “These uppers were designed for shooters who demand the highest level of consistency and durability from their equipment.”

Key Benefits

• Enhanced Rigidity: One-piece construction eliminates movement between receiver and handguard.
• Improved Alignment: Continuous top rail ensures precise mounting for optics and accessories.
• Precision Machining: Billet aluminum construction for long-term durability.
• Integrated Design: Streamlined profile optimized for modern rifle configurations.

Specifications

• Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum.
• Finish: Type III Hard Coat Anodizing.
• Compatibility: Compatible with all standard AR-15 barrels.

Available Configurations:

• 5.56 M-LOK – 10.75.”
• A2 – 7.25”
• Quad Rail – 10.75” (More Lengths coming soon)

Included Components

• Titanium Monolithic Barrel Nut.
• Icon Defense Gas Block.
• Monolithic Barrel Nut Tube Wrench.
• Dust Cover Door Pin.
• Drive Lock Wrench.
• Hard Plastic Case.

The Icon Defense Monolithic Upper Receiver Systems are proudly manufactured in the United States and are available now.

For more information or to purchase, visit:
killer-innovations.com/shop/icon-defense-billet-monolithic-collection

Posted in Black Rifle, Firearms, Press Release | No Comments »

Back “Guardians of Neutrality – Swiss Rifles Through the Ages” Now

March 19th, 2026

Now available on Kickstarter, Safar Publishing’s latest book “Guardians of Neutrality – Swiss Rifles Through the Ages” offers a deep dive into the evolution of Swiss military rifles, spanning over a century of innovation, precision, and craftsmanship.

Author Thomas Anderson promises around 550 pages of the history of Swiss rifles from 1860 to 1990 through meticulously researched data and photographs.

This is a must-have for students of small arms history.

Join over 400 other backers and secure your copy now at www.kickstarter.com/projects/345pdp/guardians-of-neutrality-swiss-rifles-through-the-ages.

Posted in History, weapons | No Comments »

Marines Can Use Red Dot Optic Equipped M18 Pistols for Qualification

March 19th, 2026

According to a released recently MARDMIN (104/26) message, Marines are authorized to use unit funded, Using Unit Responsibility Item, M17 Romeo (sic) red dot optic, National Stock Number 1240-01-713-9795 for Combat Pistol Program (CPP) qualifications with the M18 Modular Handgun System (MHS).

Manufactured by SIG Electro-Optics, the ROMEO-M17 was assigned its NSN and added to the MHS Additional Authorized List (AAL) in October, 2023.

ROMEO-M17 Specs:

Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
Reticle: Circle dot with 2 MOA Red Dot / 32 MOA Circle
Lens Type: Asphere
Brightness Adjustment Settings: 15 (12 Day / 3 Night Vision)
Water Resistance: Submersible to 20 meters
Overall Length: 2.4 inches
Overall Width: 0.9 inches
Overall Height: 1.1 inches
Mounting Footprint: SIG-LOC™ MHS
Battery Type: CR2032
Battery Location: Side
Weight (w/o battery): 1.5 ounces

MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination)
MAGNETAC (Magnetic Activation)
D.A.R.C. (Dark Adaptive Reticles & Coatings)
Designed, developed, tested and fully assembled in the USA
Integrated loaded chamber indicator (LCI) gas deflector and machined anti-reflection grooves on all rear facing surfaces for reduced glare

In other pistol marksmanship news, an earlier MARADMIN (095/26) authorizes Marines in units that are issued Glock pistols from the USMC (e.g., MARSOC) or Department of State (e.g., MCESG) for unique duty requirements to use these pistols for CPP qualifications.

Posted in Advertiser, USMC, weapons | 1 Comment »

A Legacy Cemented: 91st Civil Affairs’ Fox Company Stands Down

March 19th, 2026

FORT BRAGG, N.C. – With a final roll in front of family, friends and alumni, the guidon of Fox Company, 91st Civil Affairs Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), was cased on March 6. This marked the formal inactivation of a unit whose work was pivotal to U.S. Army missions across Africa, the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific.

The ceremony, steeped in military tradition, symbolized the end of the company’s mission as part of a broader transformation within U.S. Army Special Operations.

The strategic realignment is designed to maximize adaptability to the complex and evolving security environments across Africa, the Indo-Pacific and the Middle East, where Fox Company’s Soldiers have been continuously deployed for the past 15 years.

While the unit’s guidon will no longer fly, the missions it supported are ongoing. The inactivation is not an end, but a transformation, with the company’s operational lineage and its Soldiers being integrated into Special Operations restructure.

“From day one, the mission was clear and the tempo was high. Fox Company didn’t just meet the standard; it set the standard. By 2012 its Soldiers were spread across a vast expense of Trans-Sahara, from Somalia to Nigeria,” said U.S. Army Maj. Kristopher Levy, the 91st Civil Affairs Battalion executive officer and former Fox company commander, as he reflected on the unit’s history. “The following year they were in the mountains of Afghanistan.”

Operating in environments where trust is the ultimate currency, Civil Affairs Soldiers from Fox Company served as the essential link between military commanders and the civilian populations around them. Their primary role was simple; understand and engage the human terrain. This included advising local and national leaders on governance, facilitating humanitarian assistance, and coordinating with non-governmental organizations to support regional stability.

“To the Soldiers of the 91st, this is a moment not just to remember Fox Company’s history, but the immense responsibility entrusted to all of us as you witness constant change in the world and challenges on the horizon. We are reminded of a stark truth that we do not choose the time or place of the next call,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Micheal Veglucci, commander of the 91st Civil Affairs Battalion, as he addressed the Soldiers and alumni of Fox Company. “It is for this reason that we must remain ready, professional, prepared, and deeply committed to the mission.”

These Soldiers worked alongside U.S. forces, partner forces, allies, and local leaders, often in remote and austere locations. Civil Affairs Soldiers help villages secure a clean water source, advise local officials on public services, or simply building rapport with community elders. Their efforts were critical to mitigating conflict and fostering long-term security. This work behind the scenes was fundamental to creating the conditions necessary for broader mission success, helping to counter malign influence and deny sanctuary to extremist organizations.

For the Soldiers attending the ceremony, it was a moment of reflection.

“It’s true, Fox Company was established in October 2010, however the official history fails to mention how the company was initially a collection of freshly minted Civil Affairs NCOs and officers straight out of the qualification course mixed with groups from other organizations,” said Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Angelo Gutierrez.

Although their company is now part of history, the skills of the Soldiers of Fox Company remain in high demand. The Fox Company Soldiers will be reassigned, bringing their invaluable experience and regional expertise to other Special Operations units supporting U.S. Africa Command, U.S. Pacific Command and U.S. Central Command.

As the guidon is cased, it marks the conclusion of a long chapter of Civil Affairs history. Yet, the legacy of Fox Company remains etched in the strengthened partnerships and stabilized communities it left behind, a testament to the quiet professionals who lived up to their commander’s charge.

Fox Company’s guidon may be rolled up and stored away, but to those who served under it, one thing remains, the essence of the 91st Civil Affairs Battalion and its never-ending legacy.

Story by SGT Lee Heaton

3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne)

Posted in Army, Forces Focus, Guest Post, SOF | No Comments »

Orbit Unveils MPT40: A New Standard for Compact, High-Performance, Combat Ready SATCOM

March 18th, 2026

Multi-platform terminal designed for vehicles, small vessels and manoeuvring forces, combining minimal footprint, high performance and cost efficiency

SATELLITE 2026, March 23-26, Walter E. Washington Convention Center // Washington, DC, booth #1925

March 17, 2026 Orbit Communication Systems Ltd., a leading provider of airborne communications management systems, broadband land, maritime and airborne SATCOM terminals, and ground station solutions, is launching the MPT40 Multi-Platform SATCOM Terminal, a compact, lightweight and cost-effective satellite communication system designed to deliver high performance across diverse military operational environments. The new terminal provides forces with a flexible communication capability that can be deployed across multiple platforms while maintaining reliable, resilient connectivity.

Designed for true operational versatility in a GNSS denied environment, the MPT40 can be installed on military vehicles, small naval vessels or deployed by maneuvering ground forces operating in the field. The same system can be easily transferred between platforms, enabling operational flexibility and simplifying logistics while ensuring mission continuity.

With a particularly low footprint of 50×50 cm (20″x20″)- the terminal is ideally suited for armored vehicles and space-constrained tactical platforms where profile, weight and available space are critical operational considerations. The system is lightweight, easily disassembled and rapidly deployable, supporting quick field setup when mobility and responsiveness are essential.

The MPT40 supports multi-orbit satellite constellations including GEO, MEO, HEO and LEO, delivering reliable broadband connectivity anytime, anywhere. Its advanced design ensures strong performance across all elevation angles, maintaining stable communication links for command-and-control, ISR and other mission-critical applications even in challenging operational environments.

The system complies with stringent Military Standards (810H & 461G), supports operation with virtually any modem, features electronically controlled polarization switching and incorporates a single-LRU Combat Proven architecture — an important advantage particularly for rapid installation, maintenance and operational support.

By combining compact size, high performance and cost efficiency in a single terminal, the MPT40 provides armed forces with a practical, flexible SATCOM solution suited for modern multi-domain operations.

Daniel Eshchar, CEO of Orbit, commented: “We identified a clear operational need among maneuvering forces for one versatile SATCOM system capable of supporting multiple missions and platforms. The MPT40 was designed to answer that need — delivering flexibility, strong performance and reliable connectivity in a compact solution that can move with the force and adapt to evolving operational requirements.”

Posted in Comms, Press Release, Tradeshow | No Comments »

University of Nebraska’s NSRI Awarded $500 million Contract to Accelerate Warfighter-Ready Solutions

March 18th, 2026

IDIQ contract continues NSRI, USSTRATCOM trusted partnership for deterrence, defense R&D

OMAHA, Neb., March 17, 2026 — The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) at the University of Nebraska (NU) has received a $500 million indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract from U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) to deliver innovative research and development solutions that keep U.S. forces safe and maintain America’s technological edge through rapid-response research capabilities.

With this contract, NSRI also retains its designation from the U.S. Department of War (DOW) as a University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), sponsored by USSTRATCOM and affiliated with NU. There are only 15 UARCs in the country.

While not a direct funding commitment, an IDIQ establishes that an organization has demonstrated capability and has been vetted, enabling government agencies to rapidly issue funded task orders for specific research without lengthy procurement processes.

“This IDIQ represents far more than a contracting mechanism — it’s a vote of confidence in the institute’s continued and future execution of critical research to meet national defense requirements,” said Maj. Gen., USAF (Ret.) Rick Evans, NSRI executive director. “With emerging threats such as electromagnetic warfare and engineered pathogens evolving at an unprecedented pace, the DOW is accelerating critical research from concept to capability. This award expands the opportunity for NSRI and the University of Nebraska to meet the demand signal of the Department with proven flexibility, innovation and speed.”

Since it was established in 2012, NSRI has delivered leading academic research and critical tools across two DOW missions — strategic deterrence and countering weapons of mass destruction. Its research portfolio spans the threat spectrum and crosses multiple domains. The institute has provided research, technology, product and strategy development, training, exercises and subject matter expertise to more than 50 federal and state government sponsors, generating hundreds of products, many of which are now in the hands of defense operators and decision makers.

“Today’s evolving national security threats mean we need mission-critical research solutions faster than ever,” said U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, chair of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces. “I couldn’t be more proud of world-class expertise provided by University of Nebraska’s NSRI, and I look forward to seeing how U.S. Strategic Command and federal agencies will utilize this trusted strategic research organization.”

The new contract, which consists of a five-year base period and a five-year option period, is the largest in the history of the University of Nebraska System, and the fourth IDIQ NSRI has received from USSTRATCOM — in addition to $84 million in 2012, $92 million in 2018 and $107 million in 2020.

Recent initiatives funded by the previous contracts include:

Electromagnetic operations analysis across the Joint Force: Rigorous technical reports to help draw precise, accurate and relevant conclusions regarding the performance of platforms, systems, tactics, techniques and procedures.

Acute radiation syndrome (ARS) prophylactic: Development of a first-of-its-kind therapeutic to help protect U.S. troops entering environments with high levels of radiation.

Infectious aerosol risk study: Findings and conclusions from the study demonstrated how the Navy and Military Sealift Command protect medical staff and patients from aerosolized pathogens on the only two hospital ships in the fleet.

Emergent gamma radiation technologies study: Assessment to help the DOW leverage existing and next-generation capabilities for shielding from and delivering medical countermeasures against gamma radiation effects.

CBRN assessments, readiness and training frameworks and exercises: Comprehensive chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) solutions to support U.S. and allied partners.

“Defending the American homeland requires the best minds working on our most pressing challenges,” said Congressman Don Bacon. “This IDIQ vehicle ensures NSRI, and the University of Nebraska’s four campuses, can rapidly deploy leading research towards nuclear deterrence challenges and emerging technologies. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I’m pleased that Nebraska continues leading the way in translating academic innovation into operational defense capabilities that protect American lives.”

To accomplish its many efforts, NSRI’s team of experienced scientists collaborates with hundreds of researchers and students across the four NU campuses, including an academic medical center in Omaha and a Big Ten Academic Alliance institution in Lincoln, as well as other national premier academic and research institutions. These partnerships demonstrate in real time the UARC mission — connect university innovation with military requirements to deliver operational capabilities at the speed of relevance.

The specialized expertise NU faculty and student researchers provide to the DOW is backed by a comprehensive, four-campus state-wide research infrastructure. Facilities and centers across NU providing unique expertise and instrumentation include but are not limited to:

Biological Processing Development Facility, University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL)

Biomechanics Research Building, University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO)

Cyber-Physical Networking Lab, UNL

Global Center for Health Security, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC)

iExcel, UNMC

Midwest Roadside Safety Facility, UNL

National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center, UNO

Nebraska Biocontainment Unit, UNMC

Nebraska Drug Discovery & Development Pipeline, NU

Nebraska Intelligent Mobile Unmanned Systems Lab, UNL

“This new contract continues our immediate national impact, and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity,” said NU President Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold. “Our infrastructure, combined with faculty who’ve spent decades supporting military missions and students eager to serve, creates a powerful force: a university system where academic excellence meets operational urgency to address our nation’s most critical defense needs.”

nsri.nebraska.edu

Posted in Contracts, Press Release | No Comments »