Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Blue Force Gear Further Shatters Conventional Gear Design

January 21st, 2026

LAS VEGAS, NV. – Blue Force Gear, Inc., the world leader in load carriage equipment innovation, unveils at the 2026 NSSF SHOT Show a collection of products that continue to challenge currently set standards. From a revolutionary integrated battle belt climbing system to signature-reduction and life-saving gear, BFG continues to engineer solutions that professionals didn’t know they needed, until now. SHOT Show attendees can explore the following cutting-edge gear, as well as the rest of Blue Force Gear’s legendary product line, at BFG’s booth #20405 where specialists will demonstrate their unique capabilities.

Integrated Stealth Harness (ISH™): From Climber to Gunfighter in Seconds

The patented ISH Harness combines a gun belt, climbing harness, tourniquet, and travel restraint allinto one lightweight, certified system rated to hold over 3,000 pounds. Modular, removable leg loops deploy in seconds and feature windlass points for emergency tourniquet application or rappelling friction hitches. The ISH Harness features BFG’s signature MOLLEminus platform and anatomical curve design for uncompromising comfort on the ground or at height.The ISH Harness is UIAA and EU Certified as a Type C Mountaineering Harness.

UPL MR Pouch: Maximum Versatility, Minimal Footprint

This compact pouch securely organizes everything from 40mm grenades and CS Spray to tourniquets and spare mags in just 2″ of MOLLE space. Adjustable flaps accommodate items from 4″ to 7″ in height, while the integrated BLIP pull tab ensures quick access in any conditions. Built with ULTRACOMP laminate, the MR Pouch reduces weight by up to 60% without sacrificing durability.

MTKN!® Nano LE: Life-Saving Capacity in a Compact Package

Despite its streamlined design, the Nano LE matches the capacity of the Micro Trauma Kit NOW!, holding QuickClot Gauze, Mini Compression Dressing, Hypothermia Blanket, and more depending on the fill level chosen. Two integrated sidecar pouches secure NARCAN Nasal Spray and a tourniquet, while single-hand BLIP pull tab access ensures rapid and consistent deployment. The Nano LE mountshorizontally or vertically on MOLLE or pants belts for ultimate flexibility.

BNVD Pouch & Slipcover: Signature Management and Convenience

Born from GWOT lessons learned, BFG’s BNVD Slipcover addresses a critical operational need: signature reduction. The lightweight Slipcover masks the distinctive BNVD shape with a shaggy design built out of nylon spandex while also providing natural face-shading. The perfect companion to the Slipcover, the BNVD Pouch delivers padded protection with a Fastex Buckle closure and MOLLE-compatible Helium Whisper pouch attachment. Together, they provide seamless protection from arms room storage to deployment.

For more information about Blue Force Gear or any of their product offerings, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

About Blue Force Gear®

Blue Force Gear designs the best weapon slings and leads the lightweight load carriage equipment revolution with Ten-Speed multi-use pouches, MOLLEminus platforms, and the patented Helium Whisper attachment system. Their proprietaryULTRACOMP high-performance coated fabric laminate material, unrivaled innovation, and attention to detail set Blue Force Gear apart from others in the tactical equipment industry. Blue Force Gear is a Great Place to Work Certified Company. For more information, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, Medical, Mountaineering, Press Release | No Comments »

SHOT Show 26 – Colt Exhibits Drone Mounted 40mm Automatic Grenade Launcher

January 21st, 2026

Colt is displaying their Mk47, a 40mm Automatic Grenade Launcher which they acquired a few years ago from General Dynamics, mounted to the Survice Engineering TR150 which is a USMC program of record quad copter.

The MK47 is a lightweight 40mm automatic grenade launcher with an integrated fire control system, capable of functioning as a standard automatic grenade launcher or with programmable airburst capability.

Dimensions:

Gun Weight: 39.6 lbs (18 kg)

Length: 37″ (940 mm)

Length (barrel detached): 24.02″ (610 mm)

Width: 10.04″ (255 mm)

Height: 8.07″ (205 mm)

The TR150 is an electric system which boasts an amazing 150lbs payload and has hot swappable Lithium Ion batteries.

After initial flight tests to determine how the Mk47 flies on the drone, the team will work on a dedicated weapon mount, development of a ammo box and feed system, live fire tests and possible mission configuration of the weapon.

Posted in Drone, SHOT Show, weapons | No Comments »

SHOT Show 26 – Northrop Grumman Selects Barrett Firearms to Manufacture Precision Grenadier System

January 21st, 2026

Striding into the Barrett Firearms booth I saw a curious Sight, the Northrop Grumman Precision Grenadier System on display. I asked around and while no one would go on record regarding its presence, they did verify that Northrop Grumman had selected them to manufacture the 25mm system as the PGS program continues for the US Army.

PGS is a soldier portable, shoulder fired, semi-automatic, magazine fed, integrated armament system (weapon, ammunition, fire control) that enables rapid, precision engagements to destroy personnel targets in defilade and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) targets at close range.

As this effort has progressed the Northrop Grumman launcher which was developed early on, has served as a baseline system for the Army as it considers all candidates.

The Northrop Grumman ammunition is 25mm and so far consists of air burst, proximity, close quarter battle as well as target practice. The airburst is a programmable, dual-warhead high-explosive fragmenting round that can be fired in both airburst and point detonate. By dual-warhead they mean that there are explosive charges at both the front and rear of the warhead. No word on whether they will also transition to production of the ammo to NIOA Group who owns Barrett.

The next phase of the program will down select to two systems and insiders tell me that Barrett has established a separate team with cut outs to satisfy both Army and Northrop Grumman.

Barrett already has their own candidate in the PGS program. Developed in conjunction with MARS, Inc, this 30mm systems has already performed well in competition.

The Barrett team has developed CQB, HEDP, HEAB, Proximity AB, and TP rounds.

Posted in SHOT Show, weapons | No Comments »

SHOT Show 26 – Crye Precision Announces New Airlink Knee & Elbow Pads

January 21st, 2026

Crye Precision has been working on a new knee and elbow pad system for a couple of years and has now launched the Airlink Combat Knee Pad, Field Knee Oad and Elbow Pad.

From Left to Right:

The Airlink Elbow Pad is molded from firm EVA foam to provide increased comfort and stability when shooting from the prone position. Its L-shaped cross section prevents the pads from rolling out from under the elbow, maintaining consistent contact and alignment. A flat exterior surface delivers a stable platform against the ground for improved shooting support.

The Airlink Field Knee Pad provides full-coverage protection for users who prefer an enclosed knee pad with extended shin coverage. Molded from durable EVA foam, it’s designed to absorb impact and redistribute pressure away from the kneecap for increased comfort on hard surfaces. The contoured shape enhances stability while kneeling and maintains a secure, comfortable fit during movement.

The Airlink Combat Knee Pad is molded from a single piece of flexible, durable EVA foam and shaped to distribute weight away from the kneecap while absorbing impact efficiently. Its contoured design is based on precision pressure mapping and extensive impact testing to maximize protection without sacrificing mobility. Engineered to perform like a performance running shoe, it provides joint protection in a lightweight, low-profile form.

Coming late 2026.

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, SHOT Show | 1 Comment »

Mission First Tactical Guardian Duty Holster Earns NTOA Recommendation

January 21st, 2026

Horsham, PA – (January 19th, 2026) – Mission First Tactical(MFT) manufacturers of state-of-the-art, USA made rifle/carbine accessories and holsters, is proud to announce they have earned the prestigious National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) members testing approval and recommendation for the MFT Guardian Duty Holster.

We are incredibly honored and humbled by this recognition, “said Bobby McGee Exec. Vice President Product Development & Innovation, Mission First Tactical. “We push the limits of retention by utilizing our instinctive locking system’s full containment technology. It maximizes strength and durability using magnetic and aerospace carbon fiber rod technology. “McGee goes on to say, “We designed and created a system that is safer, faster, and lighter for the frontliners that demand that out of their safety equipment. We proudly stand behind and support all officers, first responders, US Military and those who choose to run to, instead of from, critical situations.”

The NTOA Member Tested and Recommended Program has tested more than 3,000 products in real-world situations, since 2003, and is regarded by many law enforcement agencies as paramount to their product purchasing decisions.

Too many duty holsters sacrifice either speed or security, putting lives at risk. The MFT Guardian Duty Holster eliminates the need for that compromise, without impeding a master grip. This revolutionary design reduces the risks of gun grabs, foreign object and finger ingress, and optic bobble when drawing. The instinctive locking system and automatic optic hood reset offer consistent reholstering, giving officers the confidence they need while on duty. Backed by over 25 years of tactical experience and real-world feedback, it’s built for professionals who demand rapid access and reliable retention for every shift and every draw.

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

FN Expands 502 Series with California Compliant Offering

January 21st, 2026

(McLean, VA — January 20, 2026) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce the expansion of its .22LR offerings with the all-new California compliant version of the FN 502® MRD. Featuring a 10-round magazine and California compliant magazine disconnect, the new version of the FN 502 MRD meets requirements for sale in the Golden State and is officially on the roster for purchase.

Originally launched in 2021, the FN 502 lineup includes the FN 502 Tactical, the FN 502 MRD and now the California-compliant version of the FN 502 MRD. The series is purpose-built for all-day range days. It’s designed with a best-in-class, hammer-fired trigger for consistent accuracy; an industry-first, optics-ready slide; and proven, textured grip for complete control.

“The FN 502 platform was designed to give shooters a professional range-day shooting experience in a rimfire pistol, and now we have extended that opportunity to California residents,” said Dan Hines, Vice President Commercial and Law Enforcement for FN America. “The FN 502 delivers FN quality and reliability in a rimfire pistol that is great for training, plus cost-effective and fun to shoot.”

The hammer-fired FN 502, with its best-in-class single-action trigger, performs like a robust-style target pistol, delivering fast, accurate rounds on target with more versatility than any other rimfire on the market. It offers superior ergonomics inspired by the grip profile of the FN 509 family of pistols and delivers the perfect balance between slide and frame along with fully ambidextrous controls.

The FN 502 MRD shares the same optics mounting system as the Tactical model that was inspired by FN’s patented Low-Profile Optics-Mounting System™. Compatible with multiple micro red dot optics, users are able to swap out the MRD insert plates with integrated sights depending on their optic of choice and be ready for a fun-filled range day within minutes.

“When we first started the development of the FN 502 platform, our goal was to up the ante for quality and versatility in a new rimfire pistol, applying our expertise in factory milled optics-ready slides and professional-quality triggers,” said Chris Johnson, Senior Product Manager for Pistols for FN America. “With the FN 502 MRD we have a trustworthy, range ready .22LR pistol that’s perfect for training and now available for purchase in California.”

The FN 502 MRD ships with two 10-round flush-fit magazines along with the necessary plates to mount compatible micro red dot optics. Due to its similarity in muzzle and trigger guard dimensions to the FN 509, the FN 502 MRD will fit in most FN 509 holsters.

The pistol will debut in the FN Booth (Booth 12805) at the 2026 NSSF SHOT Show, January 20–23 in Las Vegas. To discover more about the California compliant version of the FN 502 MRD, please visit fnamerica.com/pistols/fn-502-series. To purchase any FN firearms, find an FN dealer near you at fnamerica.com/find-a-dealer.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | No Comments »

GA-ASI Breaks Ground on a New Hangar in El Mirage

January 21st, 2026

SAN DIEGO – 18 January 2026 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) began construction January 14 on a new hangar at El Mirage Airfield in El Mirage, California. The new construction is in the high desert of Southern California adjacent to GA-ASI’s current Desert Horizon Flight Operations Facility.

GA-ASI plans to build nearly 85,000 square feet of new hangar space that will house and test GA-ASI’s latest Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA), the MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian®. As part of the new construction, GA-ASI expects to dedicate space to support as many as a dozen new Certifiable Ground Control Station (CGCS), which are used to operate the RPA.

The groundbreaking event featured GA-ASI team members, as well as local dignitaries. Speakers included GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue, San Bernardino County Supervisor, Second District Jesse Armendarez, and Parkway Construction CEO Ryan Elmer. Parkway is leading the construction of the new hangar.

“Breaking ground on a new facility is always an exciting day for our company,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “We continue to fill our order book for new MQ-9Bs, which represent the latest in RPA technology, so it’s important that we have the right team and facilities in place to build and test these important aircraft.”

Nations across the world continue ordering the class-leading MQ-9B, from the United Kingdom to Canada to several others. Last week, Germany became the latest with the purchase of eight SeaGuardians.

In addition to supporting RPA and CGCS development, the new hangar will feature three aircraft launch pads and four new gate terminals.

Posted in Aviation, Industry, Press Release, UAS | No Comments »

Safariland Releases New SafariMesh

January 21st, 2026

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Safariland® a brand of The Safariland Group, a leading global provider of safety products designed for the public safety, military, professional and outdoor markets and one of Cadre Holdings, Inc.’s (NYSE: CDRE) (“Cadre”) key brands, is excited to announce the launch of SafariMesh™, a next-generation communication device that enables dependable team communication in challenging operational conditions. SafariMesh which will be launching at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20-23.

SafariMesh™ provides secure, flexible communication without the need for towers, repeaters or centralized networks. Built on a self-forming, self-healing mesh network that automatically adapts as users move, the device allows teams to maintain reliable voice and data connections across complex terrain, buildings and large facilities.

“We are proud to introduce SafariMesh as a powerful new communications solution for operators working in the most challenging environments,” said Brad Medine, communications product category director for Safariland. “The goal was to create a solution that is easy to use, adaptable to different missions and dependable in the field.”

Designed for global use, SafariMesh supports flexible deployment and integrates seamlessly with Safariland’s Liberator headset series and other communications headsets. Its compact, rugged design allows for hands-free operation and intuitive one-button control, making it well suited for high-tempo and mission-critical operations.

Product Specs

Decentralized Mesh Network

Extended Range

Military-grade AES-256 Encryption

Global Spectrum Support: Operates on 1.8 GHz (EU) and 1.9 GHz (US)

Voice-activated transmission for clarity and efficiency

Low detectability and secure network formation

Up to 50 users and 4 simultaneous talkers

Compatible with Safariland Liberator and other communications headsets

200 hours of continuous operation on a single charge via standard USB-C

Automatically pair devices with the push of a button

Attendees at the 2026 SHOT Show can get a first-hand look at SafariMesh at the Safariland booth #11268 from January 20-23, 2026.