FirstSpear

Massif Combat Sleeve – ATAK (Non-FR)

February 4th, 2026

One of the items I discussed at SHOT Show but did not take photos of is the new Combat Sleeve from Massif. There are plenty of half jackets in the market but this one stands out because it has been adapted to the adoption of ATAK.

This non-FR garment is a cropped jacket that integrates with body armor as well as chest mounted End User Devices and can quickly be donned and doffed. It includes a stowable helmet compatible three-point adjustable hood and built-in stuff sack for portability. The fabric is an encapsulated durable weather barrier shell by EPIC by Nextec with durable 40D ripstop lining and Polartec Alpha along with Primaloft Active insulation.

Features:

  • Fully insulated cropped jacket with inner storm fly
  • Upper center front zipper closure
  • ATAK opening with elastic strap/hook closure
  • Helmet-compatible three-point adjustable hood
  • Dual Front chest elastic slip
  • Velcro® loop configuration: Right/Left Sleeves
  • Front torso cummerbund attachments keep garment in
  • place during movement
  • Adjustable elastic drawcord system at bottom hem
  • Durable 330D nylon reinforced elbows and lower back
  • Internal back zipper pocket compresses into stuff sack
  • Gusseted sleeve hems with Velcro® closure cuff tabs

Available in OCP in sizes XS-3XL.

www.massif.com/product/massif-combat-sleeve-atak

Posted in Clothing, SHOT Show, TAK | No Comments »

NODBOX BNVD Case

February 4th, 2026

I first saw the Dev Cell NODBOX during last year’s DSEI in London. Platatac had a prototype at the show and I ended up getting one of the production versions right before SHOT Show.

NODBOX is an injection molded clamshell case for the AN/PVS-31A & C night vision goggle. Versions for other models are coming in the future.

Impact and crush resistant, it is made from injection-molded nylon with a bungee to hold it closed.

The sample I had seen had more of a spongy feel to it but the production version is more rigid and quite sturdy. It fit my BNVD like a glove with no rattling around and I am very pleased with it.

Available now in any color as long as it’s Tan from Platatac.

platatac.com/products/platatac-nodbox-bnvd-case

Posted in Advertiser, Optics | No Comments »

War Department Announces Vendors Invited to Compete in Phase I of the Drone Dominance Program

February 4th, 2026

When Secretary of War Pete Hegseth took office a year ago, matching new technologies to threats was one of his core priorities. He commissioned an acquisition strategy to swiftly outfit our combat units with lethal drones.

The War Department today announced the 25 vendors invited to compete in Phase I of the Drone Dominance Program (DDP), an acquisition reform effort designed to rapidly field low cost, unmanned one way attack drones at scale as part of strengthening America’s Arsenal of Freedom.

“Drone dominance is a process race as much as a technological race,” Secretary of War Pete Hegseth wrote in his July 2025 memorandum, Unleashing U.S. Military Drone Dominance. “We are buying what works—fast, at scale, and without bureaucratic delay. Lethality will not be hindered by self imposed restrictions.”

The Phase I evaluation—the Gauntlet—will begin 18 February at Fort Benning, where military operators will fly and evaluate vendor systems. The Gauntlet will conclude in early March, when approximately $150 million in prototype delivery orders will be placed, with deliveries beginning shortly thereafter and continuing over the following five months.

Drone Dominance operationalizes the Secretary of War’s acquisition reformpriorities by sending a clear demand signal to industry—$1.1 billion over four phases, placing warfighters at the center of evaluation, and driving competitive, iterative cycles measured in months, not years. Across the program’s four phases, unit prices decrease, production volumes increase, and operational capability rises.

By 2027, the Department will be fielding hundreds of thousands of weaponized, one way attack drones ready for combat.

The Drone Dominance Program is sponsored by the Office of the Secretary of War and executed by the Defense Innovation Unit, the Test Resource Management Center, and Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division.

The funding is ready and steady. The timeline to build combat power is compressed. The competition begins now.

The Department has invited 25 companies to Gauntlet I, listed below alphabetically.

ANNO.AI, INC.
ASCENT AEROSYSTEMS INC
AUTERION GOVERNMENT SOLUTIONS INC
DZYNE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
EWING AEROSPACE LLC
FARAGE PRECISION, LLC
FIRESTORM LABS, INC.
GENERAL CHERRY CORP
GREENSIGHT INC.
GRIFFON AEROSPACE, INC.
HALO AERONAUTICS, LLC
KRATOS SRE, INC.
MODALAI, INC.
NAPATREE TECHNOLOGY LLC
NEROS, INC.
OKSI VENTURES, INC.
PALADIN DEFENSE SERVICES LLC
PERFORMANCE DRONE WORKS LLC
RESPONSIBLY LTD
SWARM DEFENSE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
TEAL DRONES INC
UKRAINIAN DEFENSE DRONES TECH CORP
VECTOR DEFENSE, INC
W S DARLEY & CO
XTEND REALITY INC.

– Via Department of War

Posted in Advertiser, Drone, Guest Post | No Comments »

Yokota Supports First JGSDF-Hosted Multinational Airborne Exercise

February 4th, 2026

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) —  

U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron supported a multinational airborne operation Jan. 17, at Ojojihara Training Area, Miyagi Prefecture, marking the first Japan Ground Self-Defense Force-hosted multinational airborne exercise conducted on Japanese soil.

The operation built on the momentum of New Year Jump Indo-Pacific 2026, which included participation from 14 nations, and served as the tactical phase of a broader training series designed to enhance airborne operational capability and interoperability among allied forces. While NYJIP26 at the JGSDF’s Narashino Training Area in Chiba Prefecture earlier this month was conducted as a ceremonial public demonstration, training at Ojojihara emphasized combat readiness and operational execution.

Operating from Yokota Air Base, four U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron delivered approximately 130 paratroopers from the U.S. Army’s 11th Airborne Division to the drop zone in Miyagi Prefecture. The airborne insertion was conducted in coordination with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, which employed one Kawasaki C-2 and two C-130H Hercules, both assigned to JASDF Air Support Command to transport paratroopers from the JGSDF 1st Airborne Brigade. 

The combined force conducted an airborne insertion and transitioned immediately to ground maneuver, executing reconnaissance and consolidation actions to validate command-and-control procedures and combined maneuver capabilities.

The operation required detailed coordination among multiple airlift platforms operating in the same airspace. U.S. Air Force aircrews synchronized rendezvous points, altitudes and airspeeds with JASDF C-2 and C-130H aircraft to operate as a single formation prior to the drop. Aircraft spacing and timing were established based on ground force requirements, with all aircraft slowing to a common drop airspeed before paratrooper exit. 

“Flying with multiple airlift platforms requires precise coordination from start to finish,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Stephen Larson, 374th Airlift Wing, C-130J pilot. “Once we establish visual contact, we bring the formation together at the same altitude and airspeed and set spacing based on what the ground force needs for a safe and effective drop.”

Despite low cloud ceilings and reduced visibility, aircrews maintained visual conditions and executed a precise airdrop. The C-130J’s automated systems assisted crews in generating accurate airdrop run-in profiles, allowing pilots to focus on formation coordination, drop zone communication and air traffic control. The coordinated airlift enabled ground forces to execute the operation as planned.

“The transition from the New Year Jump at Narashino to a full-scale tactical drop at Ojojihara is where training translates into operational capability,” said U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Kael Jordan, 11th Airborne Division, platoon sergeant. “The rehearsals and coordination we conducted beforehand allowed us to execute safely and effectively alongside our Japanese partners.”

Prior to the Ojojihara operation, participating forces conducted preparatory training at Narashino Training Area, focusing on procedural alignment, joint briefings and coordination drills.

The exercise brought together airborne forces from the United States and Japan to strengthen interoperability and reinforce combined airborne capabilities. The training was conducted as part of a series of linked exercises designed to enhance regional readiness and cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

By Yasuo Osakabe

374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, International | No Comments »

Denmark Commissions Rheinmetall to Supply Ammunition – Initial Orders Under Framework Agreement Worth Hundreds of Millions of Euros

February 3rd, 2026

Rheinmetall has been commissioned by Denmark, a member of the EU and NATO, to supply ammunition. The signing of a  large-volume framework agreement was marked by a ceremony on 30 January 2026. The agreement has a term of seven years. It covers the supply of several types of ammunition. These include medium-calibre ammunition for infantry fighting vehicles and self-propelled anti-aircraft guns, 120 mm ammunition for main battle tanks and 155 mm ammunition for artillery.The first orders in the medium-calibre ammunition sector include various types of cartridges in 30 mm x 173 and 35 mm x 228 calibres. The total number is in the high five-digit range, with the order value in the low three-digit million euro range.In the area of 120 mm tank ammunition, Rheinmetall will supply over 1,000 rounds of kinetic-energy ammunition. The order value is in the high single-digit million euro range.”We are grateful for the trust Denmark has placed in us for its ammunition supply,” said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG. “Rheinmetall sees this as confirmation of its role as one of the world’s leading ammunition manufacturers.”

Posted in Ammo, Contracts, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Whiskey TwoFour’s Slick Back Panel 14 for Spiritus Systems LV-120 Plate Carrier

February 3rd, 2026

WTF’s slick Back Panel 14 for Spiritus Systems LV-120 plate carrier features a 1.5″ x 6″ loop field with ample real estate for IFF, morale patches, and similar while Six (6) nylon webbing loops offer lashing points for optional shock cord.

To discourage accidental separation from the carrier, the back panel’s zipper pull tabs tuck securely and silently into milspec elastic loops at the base. Laser cut VELCRO Brand ONE-WRAP minimizes weight and offers a secure connection to the LV-120’s loop field.

Zip-On Back Panel 14 for Spiritus Systems LV-120 (size medium) is lightweight at just 3.4oz / 99g. Introductory price. Made in the USA with Berry and IRR/NIR compliant fabrics.

Zip-On Back Panel 14 for Spiritus Systems LV-120 uses MIL-DTL-32439 500D nylon, A-A-55126 nylon hook & loop, A-A-59826 bonded nylon thread, MIL-W-5691 nylon elastic, heavy duty YKK A-A-55634 zippers, and well compensated, skilled labor to produce a cost effective part.

wtfidea.com

all trademarks, brands, etc are the sole property of Spiritus Systems Company, Inc. Spiritus Systems Company, Inc do not endorse this product

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Mission First Tactical Introduces MFT Ultra Low Ride Holster

February 3rd, 2026

With Plus Size Comfort
Horsham, PA – (January 30th, 2026) – Mission First Tactical (MFT) proudly introduces the MFT Ultra Low Ride IWB Holster for deep concealment. It sits a full 1.5” lower at the waist than other standard AIWB holsters, offering larger-framed individuals all day comfort. And for everyone else this innovative holster design excels while you’re seated keeping the grip clear of your seatbelt for pinch-free comfort and easy access while driving.

“Comfort and concealment are what we wanted to achieve here,” said Bobby McGee, EVP of Product Management & Innovation at MFT. “We made a this Ultra Low Ride Holster a more concealable profile while utilizing the design and technology elements we are known for.”

Experience ultimate discretion with the new MFT Ultra-Low Ride Holster. This unique holster positions your firearm below the beltline for a virtually invisible profile. It offers an ultra-low-ride position that aligns perfectly with your body’s natural curves. This ensures a quick and easy draw with maximum comfort and effortless concealment. When converted to an outside the waistband (OWB) holster, the MFT Ultra Low Ride Holster sits below the waistline or “spare tire” as some refer toit, for a more comfortable conceal carry. This state-of-the-art holster is ambidextrous and features adjustable retention with audio click confirmation and comes with a 1.5’ belt clip.

MFT Holsters are handmade to precise tolerances for each handgun model, using the most advanced techniques and materials for an all-day comfortable carry. Adjustable retention and the famous “audible click” confirmation assures each draw and re-holstering is smooth and secure, ideal for concealed carry. This holster is available in OWB, IWB, Minimalist IWB and a variety of Mag Pouches to suit any need.

Features:

• OWB convertible
• Plus-size comfort
• Ambidextrous
• Made in the USA
• Lifetime warranty

MSRP: $59.99

To learn more about Mission First Tactical and their completeproduct lineup, please visit www.missionfirsttactical.com. Stay connected with the latest updates by following MFT on Facebook and Instagram.

Posted in Advertiser, Holsters, Press Release | 1 Comment »

SHOT Show 26 – Alpineaire

February 3rd, 2026

If you’re looking for freeze dried menus for hunting and camping trips or to supplement your field rations or survival stocks, check out Alpineaire. Their menu line up will definitely offer some variety to your diet.

Founded in 1979, Alpineaire is part of the Katadyn Group which is well known across the globe for its war purification systems.

Alpineaire Menu for 2026:

• Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal (NEW 2026)

• Chicken Chow Mein (NEW 2026)

• Chicken Tikka Masala (NEW 2026)

• Thai Chicken Green Curry (NEW 2026)

• Three Bean Trailblazin’ Chili with Beef

• Hearty Beef Stew

• Creamy Beef and Noodles with Mushrooms

• Kung Pao Beef

• Forever Young Mac and Cheese

• Mexican Style Beef Bowl

• Mexican Style Veggie Bowl (with Rice and Beans)

• Ginger Stir Fried Rice with Beef

• Country Potato Soup with Cheddar and Chives

• Pork Jambalaya

• Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice

• Al Pastor with Cilantro Lime Rice

Spicy African Peanut Stew with Sweet Potatoes

• Spicy Sausage Pasta

• Wild Mushroom Fettuccine Alfredo

• Pork Pad Thai

• Tuscan Style Pasta Roma

• Chilaquiles Verdes with Carnitas

• Three Bean Chili Pasta

• Rustic Three Cheese Sausage Lasagna

• Pasta Primavera with Grilled Chicken

• Spicy Sausage Bolognese

• Grilled Chicken with Spinach Alfredo Pasta

• Strawberry Granola with Milk

• Spicy Grilled Chicken Curry

• Vaquero Scramble

• Grilled Chicken Jambalaya

• Grilled Chicken and Mushroom Wild Rice Pilaf

• Sweet and Sour Grilled Chicken

• Caramel Cheesecake Pudding with Granola

• Kung Pao Grilled Chicken

• Chocolate Mudslide

• Grilled Chicken Pad Thai

• Cinnamon Apple Crisp

• Mexican Style Grilled Chicken Bowl

• Vanilla Peach Crumble

• Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie

• Nana’s Banana Pudding

www.katadyngroup.com/us/en/brands/Alpineaire~b4911/overview

Posted in Field Gourmet, SHOT Show | No Comments »

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