X-PAC

Enforce Tac 26 – UNITY Tactical’s Bridge for FAST REKE

February 24th, 2026

One of Five New FAST Line Extensions Launched Since SHOT Show
UNITY Tactical unveiled its Bridge for FAST REKE at Enforce Tac. Bridge is a high-performance accessory for the FAST REKE mount that brings an LRF to 12 o-clock above a mid- to long-range scope, clearing taller turrets while allowing full access to dial them.

Replacing FAST REKE’s original top rings, Bridge was developed specifically for USSOCOM to clear the INOD and INOD-X Cooled Thermal CNVD. The design allows full access to dial and set zero stops on the scope but can also be easily removed for initial zeroing procedures. Once reinstalled, the Bridge maintains minimal to no shift in the LRF.

“The removable, snag-free M1913 Bridge ensures repeatable zero retention while allowing full access to dial tall turrets,” said Mike Roth, VP of domestic business development. “Featuring innovative pass-through ring caps, shooters can verify zero stops and settings without coming off the glass – ideal for weapons checks while seated in a vehicle. Bridge offers a purpose-built solution for absolute alignment that solves the turret access problem for shooters running these larger scopes.”

The Bridge’s dual support system eliminates susceptibility to bend or whip from impact, transport, or normal carry, ensuring superior zero retention compared to other mounts. Further, pass-throughs are visible from either side of the weapon.

Bridge is manufactured from 7075-T6 Aluminum and is Type III Hardcoat Anodized for durability. It is available in 30, 34 and 35mm ring sizes. The Bridge for FAST REKE will start shipping in early summer.

This is UNITY’s fifth product release already in 2026, with the first four dropping at SHOT Show last month. I gave an overview of their FAST SideKar, which was the coolest thing I saw at SHOT this year. In case you missed it, they also launched:

• Built at the request of a USMC unit, the FAST SCO Ring is specifically engineered to fit around the Marine Corps Squad Common Optic (Trijicon VCOG 1-8x). It allows any RMR footprint micro red dot optic to attach at a 12 o’clock position over the scope tube, clearing the top turret. This provides an option for shooters to immediately access a parallax-free optic during Close Quarters Battle, passive NODs engagement, or while wearing a protective mask. The FAST SCO Ring is currently only available for active-duty sales, but I’m told it will be available for purchase on their website in the coming weeks.

• The FAST KICKR was developed at the request of USSOCOM specifically for the EOTech Vudu 3-9×32 SFP as a lightweight drop-in replacement for the current factory mount. It places the optical centerline at 1.54” over the rail at optimal position for eye relief. FAST KICKR also accepts the new EOTech Vudu 4-12×36 FFP, all Trijicon ACOG, VCOG and Primary Arms MicroPrism optics. An optional anti-rotational MRDS Ring (sold separately) provides a 12 o’clock mounting platform for an MRDS. Compatible with the suite of FAST Optic Adapter Plates, users can attach their mini red dot to the self-indexing / anti-rotational ring.

• UNITY also released a stand-alone version of their integrated FAST FTC 4X. The FAST 4X Magnifier allows for use with the FAST FTC OMNI or mounts with a similar footprint but has the same clear, durable sighting designed for rapid transitions and confident shot placement. The fixed 4x magnification, 2.6-inch eye relief and generous field of view make it easy to pick up targets at a distance.

2026 Enforce Tac

February 24th, 2026

This year’s Enforce Tac is bigger than ever with more vendors and more attendees. It also means enhanced security with longer lines.

Robotic Systems Transform Chemical Defense Training, Enhance Capabilities

February 24th, 2026

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — While man transportable robotic systems, MTRS, aren’t new to the U.S. Army, the way instructors at the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence’s Chemical Defense Training Facility, CDTF, are incorporating the robots into training is transforming the way chemical Soldiers perform site exploration.

According to Master Sgt. Rolando Silguero, CDTF noncommissioned officer in charge, the facility began a three-phase integration process of the man transportable robotic system in the summer of 2025 to professional military education curriculum, specifically the CBRN Senior Leader and Captains Career Courses.

“The primary focus is to include operating procedures as well as tactics, techniques and procedures during actual exploitation operations,” Silguero said.

Soldiers are learning to use the MTRS by remotely deploying it on a fixed site target to detect, identify and in some applications neutralize, weapons of mass destruction materials from a safe distance.

“The MTRS offers stand-off protection to minimize risk to personnel and can carry multiple payloads for detection, including systems for live video and still photography,” Silguero said, and these skills will “increase Soldiers’ lethality and speed in complex, multi-domain operational environments.”

During training on Feb. 4, senior leader course students gathered around a monitor to watch the MTRS make its way through another part of the building. The Soldiers pointed out items as they identified them and noted key information they were gathering via the robot’s camera.

Sgt. 1st Class Dean Barney, CBRN SLC senior small group leader, said his students used the information to create a site sketch to visually organize and consolidate information reported by the MTRS.

“The sketch translates raw observations, such as hazard location, potential contamination and contamination spread, into a clear operation picture that leaders can quickly understand and act on,” Barney said. “This will support faster decision making, accurate reporting and effective follow-on actions, such as isolation, decontamination, maneuver and medical response in a CRBN environment where time and clarity directly impact mission success and troop survival.”

Barney said he was impressed with how his students seamlessly integrated the MTRS into their training.

“It’s a testament to their ingenuity, critical thinking skills and resilience as noncommissioned officers,” Barney said. “Their willingness to learn, problem-solve and push beyond their comfort zones reflects the kind of leadership today’s Army needs.”

According to Silguero, the CDTF has plans to make MTRS training available to other U.S. operational units training at the facility.

“As the global leader in live chemical agent warfare training, the CDTF is committed to the cutting edge of training realism by providing the highest quality, most immersive and exceptionally challenging training capability replicated nowhere else in the world,” Silguero said.

By Melissa Buckley, Fort Leonard Wood Public Affairs Office

Swarm Aero Announces Advanced Manufacturing Center, Celebrates Ribbon Cutting In Northwest Arkansas

February 23rd, 2026

Large uncrewed aerial vehicle manufacturer to accelerate development and deployment of aircraft at volumes not seen since WW II

OXNARD, Calif.–Swarm Aero (Swarm), a developer of large uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms, today announced the opening of its Advanced Manufacturing Center from a ribbon cutting event at the new 80,000 square foot facility in Fayetteville, Arkansas at Drake Field. Swarm, headquartered in Oxnard, California, will use this facility to accelerate the development and deployment of the company’s large UAV. Its Arkansas operations will have the ability to produce 1,000s of UAVs and will create hundreds of high-skill aerospace jobs over the next decade.

“We looked at over 20 states before deciding to put down manufacturing roots in Fayetteville, Arkansas. We chose Northwest Arkansas because of the exceptional talent and partners, and we’re thrilled to continue our growth here,” said Danny Goodman, CEO and Co-Founder, Swarm Aero. “Large UAVs are the future of armed conflict. When paired with our swarm command and control software, they can achieve major combat objectives by cooperating with superhuman dexterity while being several times cheaper than traditional aircraft. This is one of the most consequential developments in modern conflict and we have built an exceptionally talented engineering team to bring this vision to life.”

Swarm’s mission is to renew American air power by making large uncrewed aircraft that allow the U.S. to defend itself and its allies without putting pilots in harm’s way. Its Advanced Manufacturing Center is where this ambition becomes reality. Swarm’s pioneering approach to producing composite airframes allows manufacturing at volumes not seen since World War II.

“Swarm’s decision to open their manufacturing facility in Northwest Arkansas reinforces what we know to be true: our region is a destination for advanced manufacturing and next-generation aerospace innovation,” said Nelson Peacock, President and CEO, the Northwest Arkansas Council. “Swarm’s presence here will create meaningful, high-quality jobs while opening new pathways for collaboration with our universities, technical schools, and workforce programs. Just as importantly, Swarm’s mission strengthens the role our region can play in supporting technologies that are critical to America’s national security and industrial resilience. We are proud to welcome Swarm to Northwest Arkansas and look forward to supporting their growth as part of our community.”

Swarm intends to double its aircraft team in 2026 and is actively hiring across the organization. To learn more and apply to open roles, please visit: job-boards.greenhouse.io/swarmaero

Savage Arms’ 110 Core Series: Purpose-Built Performance for Every Discipline

February 23rd, 2026

WESTFIELD, Massachusetts – February 20, 2026 – Savage Arms®, an iconic firearm manufacturer, introduces its Model 110 Core Series, a lineup that redefines versatility and performance for hunters and precision shooters alike. Building upon the esteemed Trophy Series, the Core Series introduces the innovative AccuFit V2 stock system, offering unparalleled customization and adaptability in the field.

The AccuFit V2 stock system provides toolless adjustments for length of pull and comb height, ensuring a personalized fit for every shooter. Additionally, interchangeable grip modules allow users to tailor the rifle’s ergonomics to their preference, enhancing comfort and control during use. 

“The 110 Core Series was designed to give hunters and shooters a true foundation rifle; one that adapts to them, not the other way around,” said RJ Contorno, Senior Product Manager at Savage Arms. “With the new AccuFit V2 system, expanded ergonomics and purpose-driven configurations, the Core Series delivers the performance, customization and reliability our customers expect from Savage.” 

These rifles are equipped with M-Lok® slots in the forend, facilitating the attachment of a wide range of accessories to meet diverse shooting needs. Threaded bolt handles enable bolt knob customization, allowing shooters to modify their rifle’s handling characteristics. Select models also feature integral ARCA rails, offering enhanced stability and compatibility with various mounting systems. 

The Core Series encompasses four distinct models, each designed to excel in specific shooting disciplines: 

110 Core Hunter 

A versatile hunting rifle featuring a Flat Dark Gray stock, AccuFit V2 system, and a Black Ink Cerakoted barreled action available in 33 chamberings. It boasts 16.5–22″ carbon steel barrels with straight fluting, a user-adjustable AccuTrigger and a detachable box magazine, making it a reliable companion for hunters seeking adaptability and performance. In addition, many cartridges are available in left-handed configurations. The 110 Core Hunter MSRP ranges between $799 and $839. 

110 Core Hunter Pro 

Building upon the Core Hunter, the Pro variant includes additional enhancements such as a Gun Metal Bronze Cerakoted carbon steel barrel with spiral fluting, providing reduced weight without compromising accuracy. Dressed in Savage Woodland or Savage Western camo, it also features a 20 MOA rail for improved long-range accuracy. These models utilize AICS pattern magazines and feature left-handed configurations. The MSRP of the 110 Core Hunter Pro ranges from $1049 to $1089. 

110 Core Predator 

Tailored for serious predator hunters, this model pairs a Hunter Green stock with the AccuFit V2 system and M-Lok® panels featuring an integral ARCA rail. The Black Ink Cerakoted action, black jeweled bolt body with threaded bolt handle and user-adjustable AccuTrigger ensure precision and reliability. Available with 16.5–22″ carbon steel barrels, it accepts AICS magazines and offers left-hand configurations. The 110 Core Predator is available for an MSRP of $1099. 

110 Core Tactical 

Engineered for precision long-range shooting, the Core Tactical features a Coyote Tan stock with AccuFit V2, interchangeable grip modules and M-Lok® panels with an integral ARCA rail. The Platinum Cerakoted barreled action, black jeweled bolt body with threaded bolt handle and user-adjustable AccuTrigger deliver consistent performance. The 16.5–24″ carbon steel barrels, a one-piece 20 MOA rail, AICS magazine compatibility and left-handed configurations make these rifles built for serious shooters seeking adaptability and precision. The MSRP of the 110 Core Tactical is $1099. 

For more information about Savage Arms and its extensive line of leading firearms, visit savagearms.com

Fix It Sticks Introduces The Works Toolkit with a Premium Nanuk Hardcase

February 23rd, 2026

Chicago, IL- Fix It Sticks, the industry innovator of modular firearms maintenance tools and torque limiters now offers their extremely popular The Works with a premium Nanuk™ 903 hard case and a customized, form fitted foam interior that includes MOLLE  panels and bit holders. The Works with Hardcase Toolkit has the most useful and critical tools necessary for properly torquing rifle actions, optics mounts, scope rings, sights, and other accessories. Properly torquing the rifle action and other components is critical for consistency, accuracy, and reliability.

The Works with Hardcase Toolkit combines the Fix It Sticks Torque Limiter Kit (or an All-in-One Torque Driver), AR15 Field Maintenance Kit, and critical pistol and firearms maintenance accessory bits into one easy to carry and easy to use kit. It contains tools often needed to maintain your AR-15, properly tighten optics mounts and rifle parts to the correct torque, and work on pistols and shotguns as well. The Nanuk 903 hardcase protects the tools and components from the elements, being water resistant and dust proof. The Works with Hardcase Toolkit includes the following specialty parts / bits: 

Four Individual Torque Limiters (15, 25, 45, 65 in-lbs) or an All-in-One Torque Driver (15-65 in-lbs)

T-Way T-Handle Wrench

1/2” Socket and Bit Adapter

Universal Choke Tube Wrench

1911 Bushing Tool

Front Sight Tool for Glock®

Mini Pry-Bar

Bolt Carrier Group Scraper

Metal Pin Punch

Castle Nut Wrench

Bronze Scraper

Steel Pick

Plastic Pin Punch

Cleaning Brush Bit

A2 Front Sight Adjustment Bit

Set of Brass Cleaning Rods (accepts 8-32 threaded attachments)

Two bit adapters to allow for 8-32 threadedcomponents

Magnetic Parts Tray

Nanuk™ 903 Waterproof Case w/ MOLLE  panels and bit holders

24 Electroless Nickel Plated Bits: 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, .050”, 5/64”, 3/32”, 1/8”, 7/64”, 9/64”, 5/32”, 3/16”, 1/4”],T8, T10, T15, T20, T25, T27, T30, P1, P2, Slotted 3/16”, 3/32”

Like all Fix It Sticks tool kits the backbone of the system is the Fix It Sticks T-Way T-Handle Wrench and innovative torque limiters or drivers. The Fix It Sticks T-Way Handle Wrenches work with any ¼” hex bit in the main drive end and each T-handle end for extra leverage or reach. Both the Individual Torque Limiters and the All-In-One Torque driver accept any ¼” hex bit and work with any ¼” hex driver.

The Works with Hardcase Toolkit is perfect for use on the bench or out in the field, in particular when the extra durability of a hardcase is needed. Now available, the The Works with Hardcase Toolkit has an MSRP of $400 with the All-in-One Torque Driver, and an MSRP of $466 with the Individual Torque Limiters.

store.fixitsticks.com/products/the-works-with-hardcase

XTech Tactical Completes First Acquisition: Creature Grips Now Part of the Lineup as Thru-Flo Rail Covers

February 23rd, 2026

XTech Tactical is proud to announce the acquisition of Creature Grips, LLC in Q4 2025, rebranding the innovative heat-venting rail cover technology as Thru-Flo™ Rail Covers compatible with M-LOK handguards.

“This partnership marks a continuation of the American Dream that inspired Creature Grip from the very start. XTechTactical is uniquely positioned to bring Creature Grips designs to a wider audience and will keep pushing boundaries with the product line”, stated Alex Dombrowski, founder of Creature Grips.

Jeremy Deadman, President of XTech Tactical, added: “We are very excited to have completed our first acquisition. Our vision from inception was to not only grow organically but through acquisition as an energizing partner. Alex was phenomenal to work with and an example of a transaction that benefited all parties. We are actively pursuing additional opportunities to enhance our product mix, distribution and manufacturing capabilities.”

This acquisition integrates the patented rail covers previously known as Creature grips. Now under the THRU-FLO™ branding. The technology is a unique one-piece rail cover that includes a pass-through hole. The covers efficiently enhance the grip and vents heat from the barrel and handguard. The rebrand to Thru-Flo™ expands XTech Tactical’s portfolio with the same relentless, shooter-focused innovation the brand has delivered since 2013.

Key features of the Thru-Flo Rail Covers:

MSRP $14.95 for 6-pack

Ultra-lightweight at just 2 grams per cover, the lightest M-LOK compatible covers available.

Tool-free, one-piece design for quick installation and removal in seconds: no hardware needed.

Durable protection that enhances grip and control in hot conditions without added bulk; compatible with AR-15, AK-47, MP5, and other M-LOK platforms (optimized for slots under 3mm thick).

Made in the USA of injection-molded TPU hard rubber

Convenient 6-pack 

Color optionsBlack and Coyote (more to come!)

Backed by XTech Tactical’s lifetime warranty and newly issued U.S. utility & design patents, this move reinforces itscommitment to innovative solutions that address real shooter needs.

Product Link: www.xtechtactical.com/product/thru-flo-rail-cover-6-pack

Company Website: www.xtechtactical.com

Mehler Protection Unveils New Close Range Active Counter-UAS System for Land Vehicles at Enforce Tac 2026

February 23rd, 2026

KÖNIGSLUTTER, GERMANY (23 February 2026)

Mehler Protection presents SCILT, a new close-range protection system to counter drones attacking land vehicles from short range and low angles. The system is presented for the first time at Enforce Tac 2026.

Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) increasingly no longer approach only from above. Instead, they emerge from terrain, ditches, flanks, and rear sectors, appearing at very short distance and leaving minimal reaction time. SCILT is conceived specifically to address this immediate close-in envelope, where conventional mobile air-defence systems and unit-level counter-UAS solutions reach detection and defeat limits.

SCILT is conceived as a dedicated last protective layer for individual vehicles, addressing the gap between large-scale mobile air defence systems and passive vehicle protection. Designed to counter small drones, including FPV drones, kamikaze drones, and loitering munitions, SCILT operates in close and very close-range engagements and is intended to defeat both single drones and multiple simultaneous threats in the immediate hazard zone.

The system combines effector modules, sensors, and operating logic directly on the vehicle, enabling defence against drones approaching from lateral and frontal directions as well as low-angles. Sensor kits can include electro-optical and other close-range surveillance sensors to support detection and operator decision-making. Cost-effective effector solutions support scalable employment across different mission profiles.

Key characteristics include:

  • Close and very close-range protection against drones
  • Sector-based configuration, allowing individual directions to be activated or deactivated depending on formation and movement
  • Three staged alert levels: detection alert, approach alert, and trigger alert
  • In its first version, SCILT operates deliberately with a man-in-the-loop architecture, with further automation planned as technology, procedures, and approval processes evolve

Effector modules use market available standard ammunition types in shotgun-calibre, ranging from rubber projectiles to hardened-core, tungsten-carbide fragment, and armour-piercing variants. This effector spectrum enables controlled hazard areas and scalable effects depending on scenario requirements, while cost-effective effector solutions support employment against both single drones and multiple simultaneous threats.

SCILT is controlled via a vehicle data bus and integrates into existing vehicle architectures. Where such interfaces are not available, the system operates as a self-contained package with its own close-range surveillance and control chain. Remote control units can be installed at multiple positions inside the vehicle.

The development of SCILT has been ongoing for approximately one and a half years. Mehler Protection conducted 48 test campaigns, including external and terminal ballistics, temperature behaviour, trigger reliability testing, and fragment-density measurements to determine the optimal effective range.

The first version of SCILT is planned to be available from summer 2026 as an effector package with sensor kits and control units that can be integrated into different vehicle configurations.

SCILT builds on Mehler Protection’s long-standing platform protection portfolio across land, air, and sea. The company supplies protection solutions for helicopters, land vehicles and naval systems, and is a main supplier of protection systems for almost all naval platforms currently under construction for the German Navy.

Learn more about Mehler Protection’s platform armour solutions.