Lowa Zephyr Mk 2 GTX

INVISIO Acquires Product Line from Ultra PCS to Further Enhance its Integration Capabilities of the Modern Soldier System

January 22nd, 2025

INVISIO acquires UK company Ultra PCS’s UltraLYNX™ product line, which enables seamless integration of devices from different suppliers, creating an ecosystem within the modern soldier system. A number of employees at Ultra PCS will join INVISIO as part of the USD 3,5 million transaction.

UltraLYNX™ software-defined hubs enable seamless integration of devices from different suppliers, including those not originally designed to work together. The product line creates an ecosystem that provides audio, data connectivity and power, reducing the cognitive and physical burden on users.

This strategic acquisition will enhance INVISIO’s ability to deliver fully integrated tactical body-worn systems capable of handling audio, power and data, along with leading-edge computing power. It will allow INVISIO to provide a seamless and robust plug-and-play communication system that meets the evolving needs of modern military and defense operations.

The UltraLYNX™ product will be seamlessly integrated into the INVISIO ecosystem, acting as a catalyst for the development of future innovative and cutting-edge products.

INVISIO facilitates the modern soldier system

The modern soldier system is a complex network of devices—radios, weapon sights, navigation tools and sensors—sourced from different suppliers with unique standards. These devices must share data, audio and power within a unified ecosystem.

Integration is challenging due to differing protocols and power demands and the need for real-time communication. UltraLYNX™ simplifies this process by harmonizing protocols, managing power and enabling seamless device interoperability. As a result, soldiers can focus on their mission without being burdened by complex setup requirements and incompatible equipment.

The deal is completed today and UltraLYNX™ will be fully incorporated under the INVISIO brand.

Lars Højgård Hansen, INVISIO CEO, commented: “This acquisition aligns with our strategic vision to expand and enhance our product offerings and provide our customers with cutting-edge solutions that improve operational efficiency and effectiveness. The UltraLYNX product line will add significant capabilities to our already market leading soldier systems.

The acquisition strengthens INVISIO’s position in our markets, which are undergoing a digital transformation. We expect, after the initial integration, that the product line will contribute significantly to INVISIOs revenues in 2026 and onwards.”

Silvus StreamCaster Leads the Way as The Industry’s First MANET Radio To Receive FIPS 140-3 Level 2 Validation

January 22nd, 2025

Providing Protected and Secure Communications for Mission-Critical Operations Achieves National Institute of Standards and Technology – Federal Information Processing Standards Security Requirements for Cryptographic Modules

•       Unmatched Data Security – StreamCaster MANET radios’ cryptographic modules meet the NIST’s most rigorous cryptographic security standards for protecting sensitive information data, while offering support for advanced encryption standards including AES-256 to safeguard sensitive data against modern threats.

•       International Recognition – FIPS 140-3 aligns with ISO/IEC 19790:2012 ensuring global cryptographic consistency with U.S. and allied partner nations’ encryption standards, enabling secure and protected communications across multi-national operations.

•       Level 2 Security Features – In addition to meeting NIST’s advanced cryptographic security requirements, StreamCaster MANET radios provide Level 2: Role-Based Authentication, including physical security measures and ensuring that only authorized users can access cryptographic functions.

•       Future-Proof Encryption – Accessible from Silvus’ proprietary StreamScape 5 network management software, FIPS 140-3 delivers lifecycle security for users from network design to deployment.

Los Angeles, CA – January 22, 2025 – Silvus Technologies (“Silvus”), a global leader in advanced wireless networking solutions, today announced that its StreamCaster MANET radios are the first and only tactical radios with cryptographic modules to receive FIPS 140-3 Level 2 validation. By achieving FIPS 140-3 Level 2 validation, Silvus reinforces its position as a trusted provider of secure, resilient communication solutions that defense, law enforcement agencies, and critical infrastructure operators rely on for mission-critical communications in any operational environment.

StreamCaster MANET radios provide high-fidelity video, voice, and IP data communications – delivering actionable intelligence at the speed of relevance. At the heart of every StreamCaster MANET radio is Silvus’ battle-proven MN-MIMO waveform, capable of linking hundreds of nodes with unmatched range, data throughput, EW resiliency, and scalability. Applicable radio models now available with FIPS 140-3 Level 2 encryption include SC4200, SC4400, SL4200, and SM4200.

“We are proud to achieve FIPS 140-3 Level 2 validation, a milestone that highlights our dedication to providing the most advanced tactical communication solutions,” said Weijun Zhu, Vice President of Engineering at Silvus Technologies. “Certification of StreamCaster MANET radios ensures that our customers can operate with confidence, knowing their sensitive communications are safeguarded from compromise in even the most contested environments.”

Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 140-3 Level 2 validation, established by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), ensures that StreamCaster MANET radios meet the U.S. Government’s highest security requirements for cryptographic modules to protect sensitive data. This standard provides operators with the confidence that their communications remain secure in high-risk, mission-critical operations. Silvus’ achievement of FIPS 140-3 Level 2 validation brings significant advancements over the previous FIPS 140-2 standard, including:

•       Alignment with ISO/IEC 19790:2012 for global interoperability and consistency with global cryptographic security.

•       Enhanced Level 2 Security provides additional protection including physical tamper evidence and role-based authentication, where access to the cryptographic module is controlled by user roles allowing different levels of permission.

•       Lifecycle security evaluations from design to deployment.

•       Mandate for more advanced cryptographic algorithms, including SHA-3 as the primary hashing algorithm and AES as the only approved symmetric encryption algorithm.

Governments worldwide are transitioning to FIPS 140-3 to bolster cybersecurity. In the United States, federal agencies are required to use FIPS 140-3 validated modules, with September 2026 set as the sunset date for FIPS 140-2 certificates. Through the Cryptographic Module Validation Program (CMVP), Canada’s Communications Security Establishment (CSE) jointly validates FIPS 140 modules with NIST, ensuring compliance across North America. Additionally, FIPS-validated modules are widely adopted by governments and organizations in countries like the UK, Australia, and Japan to ensure robust cryptographic protections for their national security and critical infrastructure.

Current Silvus customers are now able to access FIPS 140-3 Level 2 encryption and capability enhancements through a software update in the StreamScape 5 network management software. Learn more about the StreamCaster family of MANET radios and their FIPS 140-3 Level 2 validation (Certificate # 4936) at csrc.nist.gov. Stay connected with Silvus on LinkedIn for the latest updates.

SHOT Show 25 – The SEAL Team Bravo-5 Retirement Party

January 22nd, 2025

Be there for loads of swag giveaways.

Midwest Armor Expands GP Single Mag Pouch Color Options with Classic Vietnam Tiger Stripe and MultiCam Tropic

January 22nd, 2025

Midwest Armor, known for their affordable American-made tactical equipment, has announced the immediate availability of two new colorways for their popular GP Single Mag Pouch: Vietnam Tiger Stripe and Multicam Tropic.


GP Single Mag Pouch featured in Vietnam Tiger Stripe

The GP Single Mag Pouch combines a general-purpose front pocket with a hidden rear compartment that holds one magazine in a 2 MOLLE column configuration, easily mounting to any carrier, chest rig, cummerbund, or belt system for maximized space efficiency.


GP Single Mag Pouch featured in Multicam Tropic

The expanded color options are available for order and shipping and like all Midwest Armor products, these new variants are Berry Amendment compliant, IR compliant, and 100% manufactured in their Knoxville, Tennessee facility.

For more information or to place an order, visit:
midwestarmor.com/products/gp-4x6x2-single-mag-pouch

Statement on S.O. Tech in Response to the LA Fires

January 22nd, 2025

Because S.O. Tech is located in Los Angeles and many of our customers have called with concern having seen our Company President, Jim Cragg interviewed on national news about the disastrous Palisades Fires, we felt we should put out this announcement as S.O. Tech has not been affected:

Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been impacted by the horrific fires throughout Southern California and the brave first responders who are working tirelessly to protect lives and property. 

We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to the many friends of Jim Cragg who have inquired about Jim’s family and his home in the Pacific Palisades.  Jim and his family are safe and have temporarily relocated out of the Palisades.  Thanks to Jim’s efforts involving an improvised sprinkler fire system, his home and that of fourteen neighbors are still standing. Since the fires began, Jim has spent most of this past week at the Ronald Reagan Palisades American Legion Post 283 where he was previously the Commander for 4 years. Jim, with his fellow veterans from the American Legion, Special Forces Association and Association of the US Army, have been coordinating efforts to help with the recovery of the community – using the facilities of Post 283 which remarkably remains intact while the rest of the town was destroyed. He is working with the authorities to provide relief to the area.  Last week, Jim was interviewed on NBC4 in a clip which has since gone nationwide.  The link below is for the film clip.  He has also been on Fox, NewsNation and VOA.

www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/its-a-warzone-army-veteran-shaken-by-aftermath-of-palisades-fire/3600278/

Many of you have asked how you can help. To do so, please follow the link to American Legion Post 283: www.alpost283/fire where a link for volunteers and donations can be found.

To S.O. Tech’s partners, customers and friends, SO Tech remains unaffected by the fires and continues to operate, as usual.  While Jim will be temporarily engaged in the recovery of the Pacific Palisades community, he has in place an outstanding team to ensure that all deliveries are on time and of top quality.

Let us hope that this unprecedented disaster ends very soon.  Together, we remain strong, resilient and ready to support one another.

www.voanews.com/a/local-veterans-are-determined-to-help-pacific-palisades-community-to-overcome-disastrous-fires/7938667

Respectfully,

LT COL Jim Cragg (ret.)

President, CEO and Founder

S.O.TECH / Special Operations Technologies Inc.

www.SpecOpsTech.com      www.SOTechTactical.com

SHOT Show 25 – Belleville

January 22nd, 2025

Coming in March, the Mini Mil shoe from Belleville’s Barefoot series.

Look for zero drop and a wide toe box. More info soon!

www.bellevilleboot.com

Duck Hunter – Classic Camouflage Now Available from Helikon-Tex

January 22nd, 2025

Helikon-Tex presents:  

Duck Hunter – a camouflage that has stood the test of time 

We are pleased to announce that the Duck Hunter camouflage has been added to Helikon-Tex’s regular product line, expanding the brand’s portfolio with a new camouflage pattern. 

We invite you to learn about the origins of this camouflage and the range of products available in this pattern. 

Products from our offer in Duck Hunter camouflage: Boonie Mk2 hat and Chicom Chest Rig. 

History and heritage 

Duck Hunter is not just a camouflage – it’s a piece of outdoor history and culture. Its roots date back to 1942 when General Douglas MacArthur ordered special equipment for the elite Marine Raiders unit. Initially known as Frog Skin, this pattern quickly gained recognition in many variants due to its effectiveness in the field. 

From battlefield to civilian use 

After World War II, Duck Hunter entered the civilian market, where its non-aggressive pattern stands out among other camouflages due to its versatility. It is not directly associated with the military, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate a distinctive tactical style in everyday life.

Helikon-Tex combines innovation with tradition 

By introducing Duck Hunter to its product line, Helikon-Tex draws from the rich cultural heritage of camouflages and combines it with modern design and functionality. The brand boasts an extensive range of camouflage patterns – both historical and contemporary – with Duck Hunter at the forefront. 

Products available in Duck Hunter camouflage: 

Boonie Mk2 Hat – a new version of the classic military hat with a reflective interior

Anorak Tracer Jacket – a tactical anorak combining bushcraft roots with military solutions

UTP Pants – iconic pants in our offer, excellent cut, and 12 well-designed pockets

Bergen Backpack – an old-school backpack made of durable Cordura with a 25-liter main compartment and three pockets

EDC Backpack – perfect for everyday use, holds 24 liters of essentials

Raccoon Backpack – 24 liters of capacity split into two compartments, with MOLLE/PALS webbing for further expansion

Bushcraft Satchel – a 17-liter shoulder bag with a bottle pocket and axe loops

Possum Waist Pack – a sturdy waist pack with an organizer and several pockets that holds 1.5 liters of essential items

Bandicoot Waist Pack – a larger 2.7-liter waist pack with a detachable organizer and extra space for small items

Training Mini Rig – a compact training platform, minimalist, symmetrical, designed by shooters for shooters

Chicom Chest Rig – a new approach to the historical version of the chest rig, a lightweight platform for urban operations or CQB tactics

Mirage Weapon Sling – a two-point tactical sling for rifles

Our products in the Duck Hunter camo are perfect for: 

military history enthusiasts, militaria collectors, and tactical style lovers 

those who value functionality, solid construction, and distinctive style 

outdoor and bushcraft enthusiasts 

Availability 

Products in Duck Hunter camouflage are now available at the Helikon-Tex brand store and authorized retailers. Don’t miss the chance to become part of this tactical legend! 

Want to stay up-to-date with Helikon-Tex’s offerings? 
Sign up for the newsletter. 
Looking for knowledge? Check out our blog

Helikon-Tex, where tradition meets innovation. 
40 years of #JourneyToPerfection 

SHOT Show 25 – SureFire Fast-Attach Hub

January 22nd, 2025

Designed to bring unparalleled versatility to suppressor systems, the new SureFire Fast-Attach hub converts 1 3/8-24 direct-thread suppressors and accessories into Quick Detach (QD) systems, making them directly compatible with SureFire’s patented Fast-Attach SOCOM muzzle devices.

Users can effortlessly attach a HUB suppressor by sliding it over the SureFire muzzle adapter, indexing on the built-in slot, and securing it with the lock ring at the base. The result? A secure, repeatable, and hassle-free attachment that stands up to even the most demanding environments. The Fast-Attach Hub is the only HUB suppressor mount on the market that mimics the SureFire SOCOM adapter- suppressor interface.

Key Features of the SureFire Fast-Attach Hub:

Converts 1 3/8-24 direct-thread suppressors and accessories to SureFire’s QD system for universal compatibility.

Provides a secure, tool-free connection to SOCOM muzzle devices to simplify your firearm setup.

Simple slide-and-lock mechanism ensures quick and reliable attachment.

The Fast-Attach Hub is not an NFA device and is available wherever SureFire products are sold, without any of the restrictions associated with suppressors.

The Fast-Attach Hub is set to launch at the end of Q1 and will be available through your local SureFire dealer.

For more information, visit surefire.com or SureFire Booth #12270 at SHOT Show 2025.