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ZeroTech Optics Launches Vengeance 1-4x24SFP LPVO

March 17th, 2026

NASHVILLE, TN – ZeroTech Optics is expanding its trusted Vengeance lineup with the launch of the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE and the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR MOA, versatile low power variable optics designed to deliver fast target acquisition at close range while maintaining the precision needed for mid-distance engagements.

Built for shooters who demand simplicity, durability, and performance, the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE and the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR MOA provide true 1x capability for rapid, both-eyes-open shooting similar to a red dot, while the 4x top-end magnification offers the added precision required for confident shots at extended distances.

Launching in both a classic black finish and a Flat Dark Earth (FDE) configuration, the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE allows shooters to match modern rifle builds and accessories while maintaining the rugged reliability expected from the ZeroTech Vengeance series.

At the center of the optic is the RAR MOA reticle, designed for rapid target acquisition and practical holdovers. The illuminated center aiming point and intuitive layout allow shooters to quickly engage targets while still providing useful reference points for more deliberate shots when using the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE or the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR MOA.

Constructed from durable 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum and built around a robust 30mm tube, the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE and the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR MOA are designed to withstand hard field use. Fully multi-coated lenses provide a bright and crisp sight picture, while capped turrets, a locking diopter, and weather-resistant construction ensure consistent reliability in demanding conditions.

Whether used for defensive carbines, competition rifles, or general range use, the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR Illuminated FDE and the Vengeance 1-4×24 SFP LPVO RAR MOA deliver practical performance and dependable durability in a streamlined, user-friendly optic.

Key Features

True 1-4x Magnification Range – Provides rapid close-range engagement with the ability to dial up for greater precision at distance.
RAR MOA Illuminated reticle – Designed for fast target acquisition with practical holdover references.
30mm Tube Construction – Strong and lightweight platform for reliable performance.
Fully Multi-Coated Lenses – Enhances clarity, brightness, and contrast.
Locking Diopter – Maintains consistent focus once set.

For more information on ZeroTech optics and the full Vengeance lineup, visit www.zerotechoptics.com.

Posted in Optics, Press Release | No Comments »

US Army Files Trademark Application for M8 Carbine

March 17th, 2026

In late January the US Army filed a trademark application with the US Patent and Trademark Office for the term “M8” for all categories of firearms. As SSD revealed yesterday, the US Army issued an experimental type classification of XM8 to the Carbine version of the M7 Rifle.

The XM8 Carbine has been making the rounds. Above you can see a member of the Army Marksmanship Unit coaching a VIP on the range. In case you were wondering, this one is outfitted with the Vortex “Eleanor” AMG 1-10x optic and the B.E. Meyers’ MAWL-X1 aiming laser. In the background you can see an M7 equipped with the XM157 Next Generation Squad Weapons – Fire Control.

Posted in Advertiser, Army, weapons | 2 Comments »

SureFires Appoints Andrew Wright as Director of Marketing

March 17th, 2026

I’m very pleased to congratulate Andrew Wright on his recent appointment as Director of Marketing by SureFire Founder Dr John Matthews.

Andrew has been with the company since 2011, stating out as a Technical Support Representative and has risen through the ranks, attaining progressively more responsible positions over the years.

Many of us have worked with him as he spearheaded numerous product launches including weapon lights, suppressors, and the SureFire component of the 6ARC magazine collaboration with Magpul.

He’s always a fountain of knowledge on SureFire products and a friendly face in the booth at major tradeshows.

It’s a well deserved promotion.

Posted in Advertiser, Industry | 3 Comments »

FirstSpear and Recon K9 Enter Exclusive Licensing Agreement

March 17th, 2026

FENTON, Mo. (March 16, 2026) – FirstSpear®, the industry leader in load-bearing technology and personal protective equipment, has entered into an exclusive, ten-year license with Recon K9® LLC (“Recon K9”). Under this agreement, FirstSpear will assume responsibility for the sales, marketing, manufacturing, distribution, and logistics of the Recon K9 brand, effectively integrating Recon K9’s operations into FirstSpear’s infrastructure.

This strategic agreement grants FirstSpear exclusive use of all intellectual property owned or developed by Recon K9, including trademarks, product designs, internet domains, and social media accounts.

By leveraging FirstSpear’s market presence and established manufacturing and distribution capabilities, the partnership ensures that Recon K9 products will be manufactured and delivered with the quality and professionalism expected from FirstSpear. Additionally, FirstSpear will manage all warehousing, order fulfillment, and e-commerce operations, streamlining the customer experience.

“In the SOF community, the K9 is not merely an asset; they are a fellow operator,” said Jon Laplume, FirstSpear co-founder and vice president of SOF Strategy and Product Development. “Our integration of Recon K9 is forged in the spirit of Canes Belli, the Dogs of War. By applying FirstSpear’s material science and manufacturing precision to these products, we are making a strategic commitment to the safety and lethality of the entire team, ensuring that when the dogs of war are let slip, they are equipped to win.”

As part of the transition, Recon K9 founder Jason Watson will join the FirstSpear team. Watson will continue to drive the brand’s vision, including participating in product research and development, attending trade shows, and conducting customer visits.

The transition of functional responsibility, including the website, marketing, and inventory management, is scheduled to take place within 30 to 60 days.

About FirstSpear

Founded in 2010, FirstSpear® equips elite military and law enforcement professionals with uncompromising equipment for those bound for “The X.” Guided by its “Built for The X™” ethos, FirstSpear produces lightweight, mission-focused equipment engineered for the most demanding operational environments.

About Recon K9

Recon K9 is the premier global provider of mission-specific tactical gear for military, law enforcement, and federal agency working dogs. Born from the direct requirements of U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC), Recon K9 delivers “excuse-free” equipment designed to enhance the lethality and survivability of the K9 team.

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, K9, Press Release | No Comments »

Modernizing Air Force TACP Ground Evaluations

March 17th, 2026

FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. — Air Force tactical air control party (TACP) operators from the 19th Air Support Operations Squadron underwent a comprehensive mission evaluation in January, utilizing advanced electronic warfare and autonomous drone technology to validate new ground combat standards.

The evaluation, which became a requirement for Air Force Special Warfare TACP units roughly two years ago, ensures operators maintain combat mission readiness through a full mission profile. The rigorous assessment covers every phase of a deployment, including preparation, infiltration, action on objectives, exfiltration, and a final mission debrief. Special Operations Warfare Ground Evaluations are conducted every 24 months to validate the unit’s combat mission readiness and ability to operate in in contested environments.

The evaluation began in a classroom setting where the team received a warning order detailing the mission. Lt. Col. Craig Lowrey, the 19th ASOS director of operations, served as the team leader during the exercise. He said the initial phase required the team to analyze the overarching mission set and discuss the scheme of maneuver while identifying the expectations for both friendly and enemy forces.

Once the planning phase concluded and a written portion was completed, the team moved to the field for a target acquisition mission. Evaluators provided only a rough area of interest, forcing the team to rely on specialized equipment to pinpoint an enemy location on an airfield.

The insertion took place in total darkness, requiring every operator to utilize night vision goggles. 1st Lt. Michael Morin, a ground evaluator assigned to the 19th ASOS, said the lack of ambient light made the mission particularly difficult.

Upon reaching the vicinity of the objective rally point, the team secured the area. While the assistant team leader maintained security, the team launched a small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) Skydio X2D drone. The sUAS was flown several hundred meters from the target area, obscured by the tree line, to get eyes on the objective.

The sUAS, which features 3D mapping and collision avoidance, allowed the team to navigate the forest and locate targets in a large open area. This provided the commander with a live video feed to refine the targeting data.

Simultaneously, the team utilized Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO) using the Beast+ platform. This handheld device identifies and tracks adversary signals, such as radio or cellular communications.

“It can hear what kind of frequencies are being used,” Morin said. “It can help us pinpoint where radio traffic is coming from.”

By combining the signal data from the Beast+ with the visual data from the drone, the commander was able to determine the exact direction and location of the enemy.

Lowrey said the team made its way through multiple checkpoints before reaching the objective area. By using the technology to refine their targeting, they were able to send reconnaissance and surveillance teams forward to pinpoint high-priority targets. This allowed the team to successfully coordinate simulated airstrikes and artillery strikes.

The introduction of these ground evaluations reflects a shift in how the Air Force tests its special warfare operators. Morin noted that because these evaluations are relatively new, units are still refining the process to ensure operators are tested to the highest of their abilities.

The integration of low-profile, high-power technology like the Beast+ and Suas autonomous drones are essential for the TACP community as it prepares for near-peer conflicts where the electromagnetic spectrum is a primary battlefield.

By Jedhel Somera

Posted in AFSW, Air Force, EW, Guest Post | 1 Comment »

Orqa Signs Teaming Agreement with Red River Army Depot to Boost UAS Manufacturing

March 16th, 2026

OSIJEK, Croatia, March 16, 2026 — Orqa has entered into a groundbreaking teaming agreement with Red River Army Depot in Texarkana, Texas, representing a significant step in advancing the U.S. Army’s rapidly expanding organic small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) manufacturing capacity.

The agreement also strengthens Orqa’s recently announced Global Manufacturing Program.

This agreement builds on Orqa’s longstanding engagement with the Department of War and reflects a shared commitment to supporting the Army’s broader modernization efforts.

The recently signed National Defense Authorization Act represents a national effort to expand unmanned systems production capacity within existing Army depots. Orqa’s role in this initiative builds on the company’s established record of delivering advanced sUAS technologies and supporting operational requirements across multiple theaters.

The teaming agreement marks a significant step in Orqa’s continued partnership with the U.S. military. It reinforces Orqa’s position as a trusted provider of unmanned systems and components, including recent authorizations that enable the company to support Army programs in Europe.

Through this collaboration, Orqa plans to contribute to strengthening domestic production of unmanned systems. As Orqa expands its role in U.S. manufacturing, the increased production activity may also support growth within the company’s operations. “Made in America” Orqa platforms will be available to U.S. military customers and may also support allied nations through established security cooperation channels.

Srdjan Kovacevic, co-founder and CEO of Orqa, said, “We’re thankful for the opportunity to contribute to the increase of U.S. drone manufacturing capability. The resulting boost in capacity will add to the production we can already achieve at our headquarters, a figure that will grow significantly as our Global Manufacturing Partnership Program comes online throughout the year. This agreement is a clear vote of confidence in Orqa, our capabilities, and our products.”

Posted in Drone, Industry, Manufacturing, Press Release | No Comments »

GameStrat Exhibiting at ILEETA conference in St Louis, March 16-18

March 16th, 2026

GameStrat is excited to announce that it will be exhibiting at the upcoming ILEETA conference in St Louis, MO March 16-18.

Founded in 2016, GameStrat initially focused on developing video capture and instant replay systems for sports team coaching staffs. Following a successful market launch and adoption by over 1,500 sports teams in US and Canadian football, hockey, and lacrosse leagues, a US SOCOM element approached them in 2020 with a problem statement: Their shoot house facility had a CCTV system configured for video capture, but students and instructors had to leave the training area to go to a control room and manually replay the video feed for review after each training cycle. This significantly delayed the training cycle and instructors frequently expressed frustration with the user interface’s technical aspects. Consequently, the shoot house’s video capture capability was never used during training evolutions because its disadvantages greatly outweighed its benefits. They wanted a tactical training version of the GameStrat system because it offered users an intuitive, user-friendly format which allowed live-streaming and replay of the video feed to a handheld tablet for instant review during after-action review debrief sessions.

Following development for USSOCOM, GameStrat’s AAR video capture and replay system has been adopted by several SOF and law enforcement SWAT teams. GameStrat’s AAR system enhances after-action review debrief processes by allowing instructors and students to quickly review decisions, communication, and movement during training scenarios. It provides benefit for military organizations, tactical teams, and frontline law enforcement training environments where rapid visual feedback can improve learning outcomes.

GameStrat’s AAR system enables instructors to capture multiple video feeds during live training and immediately identify and replay key moments for debriefing and analysis. The system is designed for simple deployment and operation in training facilities, shoot houses, etc. serving as either a permanent or temporary setup. It can also integrate with existing IP camera infrastructure when required. For more information visit: www.gamestrat.com/tactical-instant-replay

Posted in LE, Press Release, Tradeshow, Training | No Comments »

Three Polaris Vehicles Participate in U.S. Army’s xTech|Edge Strike: Ground Competition

March 16th, 2026

Minneapolis – March 13, 2026 – Three different autonomy companies selected off-road vehicles from Polaris Government and Defense as they participated in the U.S. Army’s xTech|Edge Strike: Ground competition in Vilseck, Germany March 3-13. Autonomy partners Dataspeed, Inc, Forterra and Overland AI competed in the Uncrewed, Automated, Modular Ground Platforms category with off-road commercial and military vehicles from Polaris: the MRZR D4 ultralight tactical vehicle, RANGER XD 1500 utility side-by-side and RZR XP 1000 Sport side-by-side.

“Polaris vehicles have become force multipliers for expeditionary warfighters worldwide, and the integration of autonomy can expand the roles and capabilities of the vehicles even further. As a commercial company with high volume production capacity, we are uniquely suited to provide affordable commercial unmanned ground vehicles at scale,” said Nick Francis, vice president, Polaris Government and Defense. “For 25 years, we have provided vehicles, service, training and support around the world leveraging our European and Australia-based Government and Defense teams for direct support. We also have unique contract mechanisms like the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) for the MRZR D available to NATO member and partner nations to streamline the vehicle acquisition process.”

MRZR D4 – Dataspeed, Inc. – Kinetic360™: Agentic Uncrewed Vehicle for Sustainment, Reconnaissance and CASEVAC. More than 50 military and security forces worldwide have fielded MRZR D tactical off-road vehicles from Polaris to support expeditionary, rapid response and special operations missions. The MRZR D’s modular payload design, diesel powertrain, air and sea transportability make it a trusted platform for tactical mobility in complex terrain and contested zones. The MRZR D is also available through an NSPA contract, enabling NATO members and partner nations to acquire the MRZR D to enhance mobility, interoperability and mission readiness.

RANGER XD1500 – Forterra – LANCER Autonomous Ground Vehicle. The RANGER XD 1500 is an extreme duty utility side-by-side with a ProStar 1500cc 3-cylinder gas engine that offers an industry-leading 110 horsepower and STEELDRIVE automatic transmission for greater durability and precise control.

RZR XP 1000 – Overland AI – ULTRA Autonomous Ground Vehicle. The RZR XP 1000 is engineered for off-road durability and power. Its nimble handling and agility pair with Overland AI’s autonomy software, OverDrive, to execute aggressive tactical maneuvers, providing efficiency and stability across demanding and technical terrain.

Through the xTech|Edge Strike: Ground competition, the U.S. Army sought out innovative autonomous ground systems, offering participants the opportunity to engage with the government, earn prize money and potentially receive a contract award or agreement.

Polaris vehicles are designed for austere environments, allowing military forces to travel through harsher off-road conditions at full payload at a faster pace than any other vehicles in this class. Polaris designs and manufactures the most capable light tactical military vehicles available today with technology development and insertion for the battlefield of tomorrow. Polaris light tactical vehicles – the MV850, MRZR D, MRZR Alpha and DAGOR – provide unmatched off-road capability while also being intuitive to operate, simple to maintain, highly transportable and easy to globally support. Polaris commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) platforms, like the RANGER, RZR and Sportsman are also well-suited for autonomous applications, providing affordable off-road mobility and high-volume production capacity, making Polaris vehicles the off-road platforms of choice for autonomy integration.

Posted in AI / ML, Mobility, Press Release | No Comments »