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Spiritus Systems Adds “Equipnor AB” as European Dealer

April 15th, 2025

Equipnor AB is proud to announce that we have been appointed as an official European dealer for Spiritus Systems. This partnership marks a significant step in expanding the reach of Spiritus Systems’ cutting-edge tactical gear to military elite units across Europe. With a deep understanding of the operational needs of military professionals, Equipnor AB will manage the sales and distribution of Spiritus Systems’ high-performance equipment, ensuring that Europe’s elite forces have access to the most advanced tactical solutions available.

We are honored to collaborate with Spiritus Systems and look forward to supporting military professionals with industry-leading gear designed for the highest levels of performance and reliability.

For inquiries and further information, please contact Equipnor AB info@equipnor.se

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Spiritus Systems Adds “Equipnor AB” as European Dealer

Streamlight Launches Special-Edition Lights for a Cause

April 15th, 2025

Portion of Proceeds From Nano Light® II and Wedge®XT Lights to Support Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Concerns of Police Survivors

EAGLEVILLE, PA, April 14, 2025 – Streamlight® Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting tools, announced the launch of four new “Lights for a Cause” models to support two major non-profit organizations. The new lights, including the BCRF Pink Nano Light® II, BCRF Pink Wedge® XT, C.O.P.S. Blue Nano Light® II, and C.O.P.S. Blue Wedge® XT, are designed to raise awareness of and funding for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) and Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.)

“As a long-time corporate supporter of these two critically important organizations, Streamlight is proud to introduce these new Lights for a Cause, which offer customers dependable tools while also funding vital work,” said Michael F. Dineen, Streamlight President. “Whether supporting the families and co-workers of fallen officers or advancing life-saving cancer research, these special edition lights give back in a meaningful way.”

The Nano Light® II is an ultra-compact keychain light that delivers 20 lumens of brightness and one hour of run time, powered by a single AAAA alkaline battery. Lightweight and durable, it’s made of machined aluminum and includes a non-rotating snap hook for quick, one-handed use.

The Wedge® XT is a USB-C rechargeable everyday carry light that provides 500 lumens of bright white light, with a slim, flat profile for comfortable pocket carry. It features a tactical push-button tail switch, deep pocket clip, and an 11-hour run time on low, making it ideal for users who rely on a powerful yet easily portable lighting solution.

Streamlight is donating $1 from the purchase of the Pink Nano Light® II and $3 from the purchase of the Pink Wedge® XT to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation; both lights are marked with the BCRF logo. BCRF’s mission is to advance the world’s most promising research to eradicate breast cancer. For more information about BCRF, visit www.bcrf.org.

The company is also donating $1 from the purchase of the Blue Nano Light® II and $3 from the purchase of the Blue Wedge® XT, both marked with the C.O.P.S. logo, to Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.). C.O.P.S.’s mission is rebuilding the shattered lives of surviving family members and co-workers affected by a line-of-duty death. For more information about C.O.P.S., visit www.concernsofpolicesurvivors.org.

All four models are available now through Streamlight’s network of authorized dealers. The Nano Light® II has an MSRP of $19.50, and the Wedge® XT is priced at $159.65. The lights include Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.

For more information, visit www.streamlight.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Charity, For the Ladies, LE, Lights, Press Release | Comments Off on Streamlight Launches Special-Edition Lights for a Cause

Army Launches xTechOverwatch Competition to Advance Autonomous Capabilities

April 15th, 2025

WASHINGTON — On April 2, 2025, the U.S. Army xTech Program launched xTechOverwatch to advance military capabilities in autonomous air and ground vehicles. This competition directly addresses critical Army requirements by partnering with small businesses developing artificial intelligence and sensor technologies. Participants can earn $35,000 in cash prizes and pursue follow-on Army Small Business Innovation Research contract awards.

How it Works

The Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology, in partnership with Army Futures Command, launched the xTechOverwatch competition to identify innovative solutions for advanced autonomous unmanned systems, such as unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned ground vehicles and sensor networks. The Army plans to select up to 40 finalists, awarding each a $15,000 cash prize and providing them an opportunity to showcase their solutions to Army and Department of Defense experts during a live demonstration at the Army Human Machine Integration Summit in October 2025.

During the demonstration, government stakeholders will assess the participants’ technological capabilities, solution maturity and potential contributions to identify the most promising advancements. In August 2025, finalists will also attend a Collider event designed to facilitate high-impact networking, knowledge-sharing and strategic partnerships with industry leaders and peers.

Following the final pitch demonstrations, the Army will select up to 20 winners, awarding each a $20,000 cash prize and offering each firm the opportunity to submit a Direct to Phase II Army SBIR proposal through the Army SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer Program. Valued at up to $2 million per proposal, these submissions could secure up to $40 million in funding to help businesses transition innovations from prototypes to practical applications. Through this initiative, the Army aims to deliver advanced technologies to Soldiers, enhance operational efficiency, safety and effectiveness, and foster relationships with key Army and DoD representatives that empower participants to grow their businesses.

Competition Timeline

Concept White Paper Submission:Between April 2 and May 21, 2025, businesses may submit short concept white papers outlining technology alignments, their solutions’ advantages and impact, technical approaches and commercial potential.

Collider Event: In August 2025, AFC will host a Collider event at Fed Supernova, a unique forum designed to foster collaboration between xTechOverwatch finalists and technology integrators to pitch innovative, dual-use solutions that can address the Army’s current and future needs.

Final Pitch Demonstration Event: In October 2025, finalists will pitch and demonstrate their innovative technology solutions to a panel of Army and DoD experts.

Follow-On SBIR Opportunities: From Nov. 15-25, 2025, up to 20 xTechOverwatch winners may submit a Direct to Phase II Army SBIR proposal.

Eligibility Requirements

To participate in xTechOverwatch, vendors must be for-profit businesses operating in the U.S. that adhere to 13 C.F.R. § 121.702. Over 50% of the equity must be held by U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or other for-profit small businesses with no more than 500 employees, including affiliates.

Proposals must be fresh and unique, distinct from any that have received funding, are currently funded, or have pending funding from other federal agencies. If there is any uncertainty about this, vendors should visit the xTechOverwatch Competition Request for Information for further details and to ensure their innovative solutions are eligible for submission to this competition.

About the Army xTech Program

Established in 2018, the Army xTech Program offers participants unparalleled exposure to Army laboratories, program executive offices, and program managers. Participants receive valuable feedback from Army DoD stakeholders and gain access to training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, aligning their solutions with Army needs. The xTech Program hosts several competitions annually, including open-topic competitions like xTechSearch and technology-specific competitions addressing critical Army requirements.

About the Army SBIR|STTR Program

Army SBIR actively releases funding opportunities, including Phase I funding for commercially viable, feasible, and technically sound solutions. Firms with mature technologies that meet Phase I requirements can progress to Phase II or begin directly with Direct to Phase II contracts. Army experts in technical, acquisition, and operational fields guide businesses to align their innovations with the Army’s critical needs throughout the process.

Army STTR integrates small businesses into the Army innovation ecosystem by coordinating with universities, federally funded research and development centers, or qualified non-profit research institutions. Small businesses serve as prime contractors, performing at least 40% of the work, while research partners complete at least 30%.

ASA(ALT) leverages innovative technologies to give Soldiers a decisive advantage in any environment by developing, acquiring, fielding and sustaining the world’s finest equipment and services. For more information, visit the ASA(ALT) web page and follow @ArmyASAALT.

Stay Updated

For more information, subscribe to email updates, explore the Army xTech Program website, or follow us on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn. For inquiries, please contact the xTech Program mailbox.

By Daniel Smoot, Office of Army Innovation Programs, including xTech and the Army SBIR|STTR Program

Posted in AI / ML, Army, Contracts, Guest Post | Comments Off on Army Launches xTechOverwatch Competition to Advance Autonomous Capabilities

OTB – The Go-To Boot for 2025 Best Ranger Competitors

April 15th, 2025

FORT BENNING, GA – April 14, 2025 – OTB Boots is proud to report that an estimated 90% of competitors at the 2025 Best Ranger Competition laced up in its elite tactical footwear. Held April 11–13 at Ft. Benning, GA, this grueling 3-day competition brings together the most capable warrior athletes in the U.S. military for a relentless test of endurance, skill, and willpower.

The overwhelming presence of OTB Boots at this year’s event reinforces the brand’s fast-growing reputation for performance, durability, and trust within the Special Operations and Ranger communities. From rope climbs to ruck marches, OTB’s boots were battle-tested at this prestigious event by some of the military’s most elite.

OTB would like to extend a big congratulations to 1st Lt. Kevin Moore and 1st Lt. Griffin Hokanson from the 75th Ranger Regiment on winning this year’s competition –– well done, gentlemen!

The flagship M-Carbon 8 continues to dominate as the boot of choice among competitors. As the only AR 670-1 compliant tactical boot with a carbon plate, the M-Carbon 8 delivers superior propulsion, responsiveness, and support under load—qualities that are mission-critical for elite warfighters.

“We built this brand for high-performance military athletes,” said Dan Ellis, President of OTB Boots. “To see our boots trusted by nearly the entire competitor field at Best Ranger—it’s humbling, and it fuels our commitment to push even further.”

OTB Boots is a proud partner of the Best Ranger Competition and remains dedicated to serving the unique needs of America’s most elite. Its full lineup—including the M-Carbon 8, M-Flex 8, and Abyss—is available now at select premium tactical retailers and online at OTBBOOTS.CO and Amazon.

Follow @otb_boots on Instagram and Facebook to see how top-tier performers are putting their OTBs to the test.

Posted in Boots, Press Release | Comments Off on OTB – The Go-To Boot for 2025 Best Ranger Competitors

US Army Conducts First Battalion-Level All-Domain Home Station Training Exercise

April 15th, 2025

YAKIMA TRAINING CENTER, Wash.—Within the foothills of the Cascade Mountain range, the 1st Multi-Domain Effects Battalion (MDEB) from the 1st Multi-Domain Task Force (MDTF) conducted the Army’s first battalion-level All-Domain Home Station Training (HST) exercise, Static Focus 3. Held from March 3-14, the exercise took place at the Yakima Training Center in conjunction with Project Convergence Capstone 5 (PC-C5).

Static Focus 3 enabled live training of the MDEB’s family of systems used to conduct Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA) and non-kinetic effects execution. 1MDEB, activated concurrently with 1MDTF in 2020, integrates the task force’s information, intelligence, cyber, electromagnetic warfare, and space capabilities.

A highlight of the training was the network extension integration and deep sensing capability of High-Altitude Balloons (HABs) and the experimentation with ultra long-endurance, solar powered Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS).

“This is our first real exercise integrating government owned and operated ultra long-endurance UAS specifically designed for long-range deep sensing,” said Lt. Col. Joseph Mroszczyk, commander of 1MDEB.

Prior to the exercise, the unit spent two years testing and training with the platform alongside the long-endurance UAS system’s contractor, Kraus Hamdani Aerospace. It wasn’t until this event that the Soldiers were able to independently operate the system.

“We’ve got trained pilots and mechanics gaining valuable experience on the platform now,” Lt. Col. Mroszczyk added. “They’re logging hours and providing crucial sensor data, enabling us to serve as the task force’s eyes and ears, and as key contributing Army sensor to the Joint Force.”

During Static Focus 3, 1MDEB logged over a hundred UAS flight hours in various configurations.

“From a maintenance perspective, I was astonished by how little time and resources the platform demanded,” said Sgt. Jake Meyer from the UAS platoon from 1MDEB’s Extended Range and Sensing Effects (ERSE) Company. “Compared to traditional platforms, which require several months to get familiarized with, we were up and running in just two days.”

Max endurance testing was included in the experimentation of the platform, to include multi-ship flights.

“Multi-ship flight operations are the most complex missions, but the autonomous capability allows me, as an operator, to focus on the mission instead of my continuous direct management of each aircraft,” said Staff Sgt. Jacob Wilbert from the UAS platoon from 1MDEB’s ERSE Company.

Complementary to the long-range deep sensing UAS, the unit also experimented with HABs from three vendors, sponsored by the Army Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Task Force for inclusion in the event and in conjunction with PC-C5.

“For me, the highlight of the event was witnessing the successive launches from all three HAB vendors and creating a constellation. Being part of this was exhilarating, because each vendor offered their own unique features and capabilities,” said Sgt. Antonio Morales from 1MDEB’s ERSE Company’s HAB platoon.

Previously, the unit had to travel to Fort Huachuca, Arizona, to access the same level of training. Static Focus 3 not only reduced the cost of traveling to Arizona to train, but also served as a valuable technical rehearsal for future employment.

“The progress that we’ve made over this last week greatly enhanced our capability as a task force,” said Mroszczyk.

As a theater-level unit and Joint Force enabler, assigned to the Indo-Pacific, the 1MDTF plays a vital role in synchronizing long-range precision fires layered with long-range precision effects to create multiple dilemmas and neutralize adversary anti-access and area denial networks. The MDTF’s proven innovation, agility, and lethality have led the Army to direct five full MDTFs in strategically significant locations worldwide.

PC-C5 is an Army hosted experiment that provides Joint and Multinational participants various locations that supports individual modernization efforts while solving problems through applications with Combined, Joint All Domain Operations (CJADO). PC-C5 ensures that the Army, can rapidly and continuously converge effects across all domains – air, land, sea, space, and cyber, to increase operational tempo and generate decision advantage over our adversaries. These structured series of experiments demonstrate transformation and modernization efforts, expand war-winning capabilities, and deliver the Army of 2030 while designing the Army of 2040.

By SSG Brandon Rickert

Posted in Army, CEMA, Guest Post, ISR, Space, UAS | Comments Off on US Army Conducts First Battalion-Level All-Domain Home Station Training Exercise

Draganfly and SafeLane Global Enter into Multi-Year Agreement with Draganfly as the Preferred Global Provider of Landmine Mapping Drones and Aerial Survey Services

April 14th, 2025

First Ukraine Landmine Aerial Survey Contract Underway

Tampa, FL — April 10, 2025 — Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO) (FSE: 3U8) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”), an industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems, today announced that it has been selected by SafeLane Global Ltd. (“SafeLane”) as its preferred unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and aerial survey provider.

SafeLane, a world-renowned specialist in explosive threat mitigation, is one of only two private organizations licensed by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense to conduct landmine and explosive ordnance clearance operations in Ukraine. With over 30 years of experience across more than 60 countries, SafeLane supports governments, humanitarian organizations, and commercial clients in the clearance and disposal of landmines, unexploded ordnance (UXO), and explosive remnants of war (ERW), both on land and underwater.

Under the agreement, Draganfly will provide advanced drone solutions, including UAVs, specialized sensors, and data analysis services, to support SafeLane’s global mine action initiatives. The collaboration aims to enhance the speed, accuracy, and safety of explosive threat detection and removal operations in high-risk environments.

“We are honored to be selected as SafeLane’s UAS partner,” said Cameron Chell, President and CEO of Draganfly. “This partnership represents a significant opportunity to leverage Draganfly’s technology to support critical humanitarian and defense efforts. Together, we will work to deliver scalable, innovative solutions for global landmine action.”

The companies will co-develop joint intellectual property and standard operating procedures tailored for aerial mine detection and clearance. SafeLane will lead proposal submissions and operational deployment, while Draganfly will provide technology, mission planning, piloting, and survey analysis.

According to the Landmine Monitor 2023, more than 60 million landmines remain buried across over 60 countries, posing a persistent threat to civilians, especially children, who account for nearly half of the casualties. Ukraine is currently one of the most mine-contaminated countries in the world.

“Draganfly’s drone-based technology will significantly increase the safety and efficiency of our operations,” said Asa Gilbert, Director of Business Development at SafeLane. “This partnership is a critical step in helping communities recover from the legacy of conflict.”

The collaboration further positions Draganfly as a key player in the defense and humanitarian sectors, supporting efforts to create safer environments in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.

draganfly.com

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on Draganfly and SafeLane Global Enter into Multi-Year Agreement with Draganfly as the Preferred Global Provider of Landmine Mapping Drones and Aerial Survey Services

GALLS Announces Acquisition of Her BlueWear

April 14th, 2025

Answering The Call To Provide Fit to Shape, Tailored Uniforms To Women In Law Enforcement

Lexington, Ken. (April 2025) – GALLS®, the nation’s leading uniform and tactical gear supplier serving America’s public safety and military professionals, proudly announces the acquisition of Her BlueWear UniformsTM. This acquisition marks a significant step in GALLS®’ commitment to female first responders, providing them greater access to uniforms tailored for their unique needs. GALLS® is Proud To Serve Those Who Serve.

GALLS® purchase of Her BlueWearTM provides product scalability and increases accessibility for women in public safety to experience uniforms that enhance performance, comfort, and safety. Her BlueWear UniformsTM started with uniform pants. As the largest distributor in the public safety industry, GALLS® resources will augment the brand/product line by adding tailored uniform shirts. Full uniforms will be available to order at a department level first, with individual ordering capabilities coming later this year.

Mike Fadden, CEO of GALLS®, stated, “For the past five years, every time I talk to a female police chief, they ask me when we (GALLS®) will fix the issue of women’s uniforms not fitting. I took on the challenge personally and am proud to bring Her BlueWear TM into the GALLS® portfolio of brands to provide female officers with tailored uniforms that fit. Because GALLS® is relentless with our focus on the customer, this partnership will give female officers greater access to uniforms that are made for their specific needs.”

Her BlueWearTM was founded in 2007 by Denise Czack to solve a long-overlooked issue: the lack of properly fitting uniform pants for women in law enforcement and public safety. Traditionally, female officers were forced to wear uniforms designed for men, leading to discomfort, mobility issues, and even safety concerns. Her BlueWear’sTM tailored designs offer three distinct fits – Balanced Fit, Defined Fit, and Streamlined Fit – accommodating sizes 0 to 24.

Her BlueWearTM Founder, Denise Czack, expressed her appreciation of GALLS®commitment to expanding access to the product line. “Her BlueWear began at a happy hour with my sister, a police officer, after yet another uniform failure. That moment sparked a fire in me; women in public safety deserved better. Her BlueWearTM is entering a new and exciting chapter in the mission to deliver safe, functional, and confidence-building uniforms to the women who serve. Seeing a woman light up when she puts on a Her BlueWearTM uniform for the first time is what drives us.”

As the only uniform company solely dedicated to designing for women, Her BlueWearTM led the way in providing female officers with apparel that fits, functions, and empowers. Now, with GALLS® resources and a relentless focus on the customer, the ability to serve women in public safety has never been greater. Visit HerBlueWear.com to learn more about Her BlueWearTM uniforms, sizing, and more.

Posted in Clothing, For the Ladies, LE, Press Release | Comments Off on GALLS Announces Acquisition of Her BlueWear

“Soviet Weapons of the Atomic Age”

April 14th, 2025

Live on Kickstarter now, “Soviet Weapons of the Atomic Age” is an upcoming photo book depicting history of the Soviet Weapons of the early post-WW2 period.

Written by Vlad Besedovskyy, who also authored “Soviet Weapons of the Afghan War” and published by Safar Publishing, this volume will boast 400 pages covering Pistols, Sniper Rifles, Automatic Rifles, Machine Guns and Grenade Launchers.

They will offer historical context for each featured weapon, exploring their design, development, and deployment including exclusive content from private collections and archives.

Back the project here.

Posted in Cold War, History, International, weapons | Comments Off on “Soviet Weapons of the Atomic Age”