FirstSpear

Reptilia Launches PULLER Charging Handle for SIG MPX

April 9th, 2026

Hillsborough, NC – Reptilia announces the release of the PULLER Ambidextrous Charging Handle for the SIG MPX platform, a purpose-built upgrade engineered to deliver consistent, reliable manipulation in a low-profile, high-strength design.

Designed specifically for the SIG MPX, the PULLER enhances user control without introducing unnecessary bulk or complexity. Its ambidextrous geometry supports a wide range of shooting styles, enabling smooth, repeatable operation whether running the platform at speed, working around mounted optics, or operating in confined environments.

The streamlined, anti-snag profile reduces interference while maintaining the leverage required for confident handling. This balance of accessibility and restraint ensures the charging handle integrates cleanly into modern setups without compromising performance.

Machined from billet 7075-T6 aluminum and finished with MIL-STD Type III, Class 2 hardcoat anodizing, the PULLER is built to withstand hard use while maintaining long-term durability. As with all Reptilia products, it is manufactured entirely in the United States and backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects.

Key Features:

  • Designed for the SIG MPX platform
  • True ambidextrous operation
  • Low-profile, anti-snag design
  • Positive, consistent manipulation
  • Machined from billet 7075-T6 aluminum
  • MIL-STD Type III, Class 2 hardcoat anodized finish
  • Available in Black and FDE
  • Made in the USA

The PULLER Ambidextrous Charging Handle for SIG MPX is available at reptiliacorp.com.

101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) operates Aevex Atlas Technology at JRTC

April 9th, 2026

U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), in collaboration with Aevex and Program Manager Unmanned Aircraft Systems (PM UAS), conduct the inaugural integration of the Aevex Atlas system during a Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) rotation at Fort Polk, Louisiana, April 1, 2026. The video depicts Soldiers configuring the Aevex Atlas Ground Control System (GCS), featuring a 30-foot mast and integrated interface box, and the Aevex Atlas Launcher, designed to enable small units to deploy loitering munitions and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Additionally, senior leaders observe soldiers utilizing the Aevex Atlas Flight Simulator and Soldier Robotic Controller (SROC) to create flight mission plans. This rotation marks the first time the Aevex Atlas system has been integrated into training at JRTC, representing a significant milestone in Army modernization. These tactical innovations provide ground forces with organic, high-tech tools to dominate the modern multi-domain battlefield.

(U.S. Army video by Spc. Mariam Diallo)

DroneShield Advances Decision Advantage with Q2 2026 Software Release as Drone Threats Scale Globally

April 8th, 2026

Sydney, Australia – 7 April 2026DroneShield, a global leader in advanced counter-unmanned systems (CUxS), today announced its Q2 2026 software release, delivering coordinated updates across its RF sensing, AI, ATAK-CIV plugin, and command-and-control (C2) platforms.

DroneShield’s Q2 release is focused on a single outcome: enabling operators to make faster, more confident decisions in complex and contested airspace environments.

Reducing Cognitive Load Through Unified Classification and Prioritization

At the core of the release is a new identity and prioritization framework designed to reduce operator burden in high-tempo environments.

Drones can now be automatically classified as Friendly, Neutral, Hostile, or Unknown using serial-number-based identification and Remote ID inputs. These classifications are applied at the sensor level and carried consistently through to ATAK-CIV and C2 environments.

Combined with new emitter prioritization, operators are presented with the most relevant threats first, while low-value or background signals are suppressed. The result is a cleaner, more actionable operational picture, enabling faster interpretation and response.

Real-Time RF Awareness Inside ATAK

DroneShield has relaunched its ATAK-CIV plugin as RfLink, a fully reengineered system designed to deliver shared RF awareness across distributed teams.

RfLink enables:

  • Real-time RF detection visualization within ATAK-CIV
  • Line-of-bearing rendering and directional awareness via DroneSentry-X Mk2
  • Enhanced Cursor-on-Target data sharing across users and devices
  • Seamless propagation of identity tagging and classification rules

Image: DroneShield has relaunched its ATAK-CIV plugin as RfLink

ATAK-CIV users can receive consistent data from RfLink users without installing the plugin. RfLink creates a shared, real-time understanding of the RF environment, even across dispersed teams and challenging terrain. Additional features, including Wi-Fi filtering and improved overlay management, reduce visual clutter and help operators maintain focus on genuine threats.

This newly designed ATAK-CIV plugin allows teams to operate from a single, aligned view of the RF environment, improving coordination, reducing miscommunication, and enabling faster and threat localization across distributed units.

Embedded Enhancements: Faster Interpretation and Controlled Response
Updates to RfDeviceManager (RfDM) and RfAI embedded software introduce a redesigned interface and expanded detection intelligence, improving both usability and performance at the sensor level.

The new interface maintains persistent visibility of detection and disruption data, allowing operators to adjust settings without losing situational awareness. Alignment with DroneSentry-C2’s interface also reduces training overhead across the ecosystem.

Key enhancements include:

  • Expanded RfAI emitter library with new drone and controller profiles
  • Improved Remote ID performance and stability
  • Emitter prioritization to suppress low-value signals
  • Disruption power control by frequency band, enabling precise and compliant operation in regulated or sensitive environments

Together, these updates enable operators to move more efficiently from signal detection to calibrated response, particularly in complex urban or regulatory-constrained environments.

Image: RfDeviceManager (RfDM) introduces a redesigned interface

DroneSentry-C2: Greater Deployment and Airspace Clarity
DroneShield’s DroneSentry-C2, DroneSentry-C2 Tactical, and DroneSentry-C2 Enterprise platforms also receive significant enhancements focused on deployment and clarity.

Operators can now deploy using offline MBTiles maps, ensuring full operational capability in disconnected or bandwidth-limited environments such as expeditionary missions, border operations, and remote infrastructure sites.

The release also introduces dedicated fixed-wing drone classification across VisionAI and SensorFusionAI, a timely capability as fixed-wing platforms, often associated with longer-range and higher-impact missions, continue to expand their role in both military and asymmetric threat environments.

Additional updates include:

  • Expanded support for radar and third-party sensors in C2 Tactical
  • On-the-move navigation enhancements with automatic map orientation
  • Improved SMS alert formatting for critical communications
  • Microsoft SSO integration for enterprise environments

These enhancements strengthen DroneShield’s DroneSentry-C2 platforms as a flexible decision layer, capable of supporting both centralized command and distributed field operations.

The Q2 2026 software release is available across DroneShield’s sensors and effectors and DroneSentry layered defense, with support for Android 10+ and ATAK CIV 5.6+ environments.

Textron Systems Awarded $450M Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle (ARV) Pre-Production Development (PPD) Award by US Marine Corps

April 8th, 2026

SLIDELL, La., April 2, 2026 – Textron Systems Corporation, a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, announced today that it was awarded a $450M Pre-Production Development (PPD) agreement for the Advanced Reconnaissance Vehicle (ARV) program by the U.S. Marine Corps. Under this agreement, Textron Systems will deliver 16 Cottonmouth® pre-production vehicles (PPVs), three systems integration labs (SILs) and four blast hulls.

The Cottonmouth ARV PPV will be delivered in three variants: C4UAS, 30mm, and Logistics (LOG). Designed to enhance the Marine Corps’ Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO) framework, these vehicles prioritize mobility, survivability, and adaptability. Rigorous government-led testing will follow delivery to validate performance and verify program requirements. The Cottonmouth C4UAS was designed to act as the battlefield quarterback and naval sensor node within the force structure, enabling transformation to how the Marine Corps communicate and fight, providing superior maneuverability while offering a synergized sensor system. A purpose-built vehicle system, the C4UAS will serve as the crewed platform base for robotic and autonomous systems integration, enabling advanced situational awareness. The 30mm variant offers direct fire support and anti-armor capability, while the LOG variant will be optimized for field supply and support. Over the last several years, Textron Systems has delivered C4UAS and 30mm prototype vehicles, as well as SILs, for Marine Corps testing and evaluation, providing valuable insights into design and performance for risk reduction. During this time, Textron Systems worked closely with the USMC to propose a Cottonmouth ARV offering that is aligned with Force Design 2030. 

“Starting as a clean-sheet design in 2019 and shaped by the voice of the customer, the Cottonmouth vehicle is poised to transform the Marine Corps’ reconnaissance missions with adaptability, mobility and as a battlefield quarterback for the USMC,” said David Phillips, Senior Vice President Air, Land and Sea Systems. “Textron Systems invested early on in prototype vehicles to reduce risk and increase maturity for the warfighter. The system design considers today’s mission requirements while also employing a Modular Open System Architecture that enables ease of future integration for the future needs of the USMC, embodying the very essence of innovation and partnership that define us as an organization.

“This achievement solidifies Textron Systems’ role as a key partner in advancing the Marine Corps’ mission capabilities,” added Zach Bupp, Vice President Land Systems. “We’re proud of the innovative, purpose-built capabilities we’ll be delivering and look forward to continuing our partnership with the Marines over the next several years.”

Built at Textron Systems’ manufacturing facility in Slidell, LA, the Cottonmouth ARV represents decades of heritage and expertise in ground vehicle design and manufacturing. Engineering and design work will also occur in Hunt Valley, MD.

AV’s UES Awarded $25M AFRL Contract to Mature Human Performance Technologies for Warfighter Readiness

April 8th, 2026

ARLINGTON, Va. — April 7, 2026 — The United States Air Force has awarded UES, a division of advanced research and development leader AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a three-year, $25M contract to transition innovative human health and performance technologies from research to field deployment.

Supporting the Air Force Research Laboratory’s 711th Human Performance Wing Human Effectiveness Directorate (711 HPW), AV will mature mid-stage sensor, diagnostic and material technologies that have remained largely confined to Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 3-5. Work completed under this contract will accelerate the delivery of deployable solutions to enhance warfighter readiness, resilience, and survivability.

“With stringent requirements, harsh operating environments, and limited access to specialized infrastructure, health-focused devices for our military service members have faced unique challenges in reaching operational use,” said Dr. Stephaney Shanks, Vice President of Health and Performance Technologies at AV. “AV has the tools, track record, and technical expertise to tackle these challenges with solutions that deliver real-world impact, using the power of science to protect and empower our warfighters.”

With in-house prototyping and AI-enhanced data analytics, AV will test at scale and advance health-focused technologies and devices. This work integrates disciplined research methods and structured decision criteria to identify viable solutions for transition. The scope of work will focus on four critical areas:

  1. Advanced sensor systems for airframe and pilot integration, improving in-field monitoring of physiological and environmental conditions. 
  2. Ruggedized wearable diagnostic tools for medical, chemical, and biological assessments in austere conditions 
  3. Powerful AI/ML-enabled databases and analytics to convert raw biosensor data into actionable insights and intelligence
  4. Emerging biotechnology platforms, including stress-mitigating probiotics and synbio-based sensors, to support and protect force health 

“By integrating biosensing and advanced materials with AI-enabled analytics and insights, we’re shaping the future of military readiness,” added Johnathan Jones, Senior Vice President of Cyber and Mission Solutions at AV. “Taking technology from the lab to the frontlines, we’re turning today’s challenges into tomorrow’s capabilities.”

AV has collaborated with the 711 HPW on prior efforts, such as deploying onboard oxygen monitoring sensors to investigate unexplained physiological events (UPEs) in pilots. This contract builds upon these successes to address hardware ruggedization, faster data processing, and enhanced user interfaces, meeting the demands of the Air and Space Force.

Rampart Range Day & Expo 2026 – Sold Out!

April 8th, 2026

Rampart Range Day & Expo 2026 is now sold out. Rampart Range Day & Expo is Canada’s largest operational range day and equipment expo, taking place May 26, 2026, at the Stittsville Shooting Range in Ottawa, Ontario.

Now in its fourteenth year, the event brings together 800+ Law Enforcement, Military, Corrections, and Government end users for a full day of hands-on equipment evaluation, live demonstrations, and direct interaction with manufacturers.

Event Highlights:

• Hands-on evaluation of operational equipment and protective gear

• Direct access to manufacturers and technical specialists

• Opportunities to compare solutions side by side in a practical environment

• Networking with agencies from across Canada

• First opportunity in Canada to get hands-on with the new GLOCK Gen 6 pistols

Brands in Attendance Include:

• GLOCK

• Aimpoint

• Arc’teryx PRO

• ASP

• Avon Protection

• B.E. Meyers

• Cadex Defence

• Colt Canada

• Defense Technology

• Galvion

• Ghosthood

• INVISIO

• Mechanix Wear

• Mustang Survival

• Night Vision Devices

• Princeton Tec

• Rapid Assault Tools

• SORDIN

• Streamlight

• And many others

A waitlist is open for companies interested in securing booth space should it become available. There is also limited availability on the range for firearm-focused vendors who don’t require a booth, utilizing dedicated shooting bays only.

For more information or to join the waitlist, visit:

rampartcorp.com/rampart-range-day-and-expo

Caracal USA Awarded Government Contract in Bermuda for CAR816 A2 Rifle Platform

April 8th, 2026

The agreement continues Caracal USA®’s expansion and operational support across Caribbean government agencies.

Nampa, Idaho (April 2026) – Caracal USA, a leading US-based manufacturer of small arms for the law enforcement and defense markets, announced today that it has secured a new supply contract with various government agencies in Bermuda for the CAR816 A2 rifle platform. The award further reinforces Caracal USA’s growing presence in the Caribbean region and highlights continued confidence in the company’s advanced weapon systems among government and security organizations.

Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, the CAR816 A2 is a short-stroke gas piston-operated rifle engineered to perform in demanding operational environments. Designed and manufactured with military and law enforcement users in mind, the platform incorporates a three-position gas valve system and is built using premium materials, including a Carpenter 158 bolt housed in an anti-tilt carrier, a 4150 CMV barrel, and aircraft-grade aluminum components.

These materials, combined with Caracal USA’s proprietary barrel extension and chamber design, provide exceptional reliability and accuracy while enabling the platform to exceed NATO testing protocols, including destructive testing standards. The CAR816 A2 is proudly manufactured in the United States and designed to deliver consistent performance in the harshest conditions.

The contract represents another step forward in Caracal USA’s commitment to supplying modern, dependable weapon systems to allied partners throughout the Caribbean and beyond.

“Working with our Caribbean regional representatives, I.I. & E, Caracal USA products have become well known within the government agencies of Caribbean nations,” said Jeffrey Spalding, CEO and President of Caracal USA. “Our dedication to safety, reliability, and durability has proven to showcase the quality of the Caracal USA weapon systems and allowed us the opportunity to compete within the tender solicitations and be awarded the supply contracts for new modern weapon systems to Bermuda.”

Caracal USA continues to strengthen its international partnerships and expand its global presence while supporting the operational needs of military and law enforcement professionals worldwide.

For more information about Caracal USA and its full line of firearms, visit www.caracalusa.com.

VIKTOS Launches Limited Edition Operatus Team Shoe: “Triple Canopy Creeper”

April 8th, 2026

Janesville, WI — VIKTOS, the Janesville, Wisconsin–based design and apparel company rooted in military and law enforcement heritage, announces the release of the Limited Edition Operatus™ Team Shoe. Built for those who move with purpose, this exclusive drop fuses low-profile agility, everyday functionality, and field-inspired design into a versatile sneaker engineered for real-world performance.

Drawing inspiration from Vietnam-era aesthetics and modern operational needs, the Triple Canopy Creeper delivers a unique blend of heritage styling and contemporary performance. A 4mm heel-to-toe drop and modern cup sole construction provide enhanced ground feel and controlled heel-to-toe transition—ideal for fluid, stealth-ready movement across varied environments. Vintage metal eyelets and period-inspired name tapes reinforce its authentic field DNA, while the durable suede and canvas upper stands up to daily wear.

Underfoot, the hi-grip crystal rubber outsole ensures traction on unpredictable terrain, while the HiRebound™ EVA insole and PU foam heel insert deliver all-day comfort and support. Designed by U.S. veterans and backed by VIKTOS’ Tried & True™ commitment, the Operatus™ Team Shoe is purpose-built for those who demand performance without sacrificing style.

“This is more than a shoe—it’s a nod to legacy, built for the modern-day operator,” said VIKTOS’ Marketing & Strategic Alliances, Perry Latuharhary. “The Operatus Team Shoe represents where heritage meets everyday utility.”

As a limited-edition release, the Operatus Team Shoes will be available in restricted quantities.

Key Features:

  • Low-profile sneaker for optimized agility and stealth
  • 4mm heel-to-toe drop for natural, responsive movement
  • Durable suede upper with canvas ankle paneling
  • Modern cup sole bottom unit for enhanced ground feedback
  • Hi-grip crystal rubber outsole for superior traction
  • HiRebound™ EVA insole for increased comfort
  • PU foam heel insert for added cushioning
  • Weight: 1.85 lb / 839 g
  • U.S. veteran designed & developed
  • 1-year workmanship & materials warranty

The Limited Edition Operatus™ Team Shoe – Triple Canopy Creeper is available now at WWW.VIKTOS.COM.