The New iTWB

YETI and KOR Partner to Bring Reusable, Vacuum-Rigidizing Protective Inserts

October 1st, 2026

KOR’s patented Vacuum Rigidizing Structure (VRS) technology offers a reusable, reconfigurable alternative to traditional foam inserts.

Scottsdale, Ariz. — September 15, 2026 — KOR, the maker of the patented KOR® Protection System, today announced a partnership with YETI to bring KOR’s reusable Vacuum Rigidizing Structure (VRS) protective inserts to the YETI® LoadOut® hard-case platform. The protective inserts are designed to help users secure and transport equipment without relying on single-use foam inserts.

The collaboration gives customers another way to configure durable protection for valuable gear, while supporting reuse across different equipment setups.

For decades, protecting sensitive equipment in transit has meant one of two bad options — precision-cutting custom foam that only fits one configuration, or fighting with generic pluck-and-pull foam that never fits quite right and can’t be reconfigured. KOR’s VRS technology eliminates the trade-off. A KOR insert starts as a flexible panel filled with proprietary media. Place your equipment on it, draw the air out with the KOR pump, and in seconds the panel rigidizes around the exact contours of whatever it’s holding — an optic, a radio, a drone, a camera body, a diagnostic instrument. Release the vacuum and the same insert resets, ready to be reconfigured for the next payload.

“We set out to to develop new packing technology to replace  antiquated packaging materials with the goal of reducing environmental impacts associated with single use materials,” said GP, Founder of KOR. “Pairing that with the LoadOut platform puts reusable, field-grade protection in the hands of the people who are hardest on their equipment — and lets them stop treating protection as something disposable.”

One system. Infinite configurations.

Unlike cut foam, a single KOR insert can be reset and reconfigured as equipment changes. That flexibility can help users make better use of interior case space while reducing the need for multiple custom inserts.

Key advantages of the KOR® Protection System on the YETI® LoadOut® platform:

– Reusable, One insert reconfigures for endless payloads — no more cutting foam, no more waste.

– Reconfigure in seconds. Fluid to rigid in seconds; reset and reshape in under 30 seconds.

– 360° protection. Superior shock and vibration attenuation with full encapsulation and support

– Built for the field. Waterproof, dustproof, and contaminant-resistant, in a rip- and tear-resistant performance fabric.

– Mission-tested. Engineered to exceed MIL-STD-810H for shock, vibration, temperature, and altitude, with flame resistance (16 CFR 1610), tear strength (ASTM-D2261), and air retention (MIL-C-83489).

Built to protect what matters

The partnership is aimed at the people who move sensitive or high-value equipment and need adaptable protection in rugged conditions. For these users, the KOR + YETI combination means a single rugged case and a single reusable insert that can protect different gear setups, from optics and electronics to communications equipment and instruments.

Availability

The YETITM LoadOutTM KOR® Protective Inserts are available at www.yeti.com/loadout-kor-protective-inserts starting September 15, 2026. KOR’s full lineup of Protective Systems for Defense is available at kortechnik.com.

About KOR

KOR is a U.S.-based manufacturer redefining protective packaging through its patented Vacuum Rigidizing Structure (VRS) technology. The KOR Protection System replaces single-use foam with a reusable, infinitely reconfigurable protective platform that hardens around any object in seconds and resets for the next payload. Berry compliant and made in the USA, KOR’s products are engineered to exceed MIL-STD-810H and are trusted to protect optics, communications, drones, medical devices, cameras, and other high-value equipment in transit. Leave an Impression.™ Learn more at kortechnik.com.

SIG SAUER P226X Agency

October 1st, 2026

When I stepped up to the firing line during last week’s SIG NEXT event at SIG Academy, one of the pistol program managers mentioned that I should take a look at the P226X they had developed in conjunction with Agency Arms.

Built around an Agency Arms alloy frame, it’s a great looking gun, but then I heard something that intrigued me, “It shoots itself.” I know the claim sounds silly, but that trigger is amazing and that was out of the box. It’s even more fun to shoot thanks to the compensator keeping the barrel on target round after round and grip panels which are comfortable yet, well…grippy.

Features:

  • Single Port Integrally Compensated Slide with Agency 5Axis Serrations and Equipped with the ROMEO-X SIG LOC PRO
  • 3.8” Bull Barrel with Target Crown
  • Agency Arms Alloy Frame with Unique Scale Front Strap Checkering
  • Custom Alloy Lok Grip Panels in Matching Scale Texture
  • Extended Takedown Lever
  • AX3 Fully Adjustable Single Stage Trigger

I’ve never owned a P226 but I’m going to change that once these are available.

Coming soon.

www.sigsauer.com/p226-x-agency

Plate Carriers. Forged in Poland.

October 1st, 2026

Every mission requires a different setup.

Explore six Direct Action® configurations and remember: gear should enhance the operator’s capabilities, not limit them.

There is no single plate carrier for every task. Choosing a plate carrier doesn’t start with the product. It starts with the mission. A dynamic CQB environment places different demands on an operator than those faced by a team medic or JTAC, while covert operations come with an entirely different set of requirements.

That is why choosing a plate carrier and the rest of the loadout should start with the requirements of a specific mission, not with the product itself. Mission duration, threat level, access to support, load carried, operational environment, and the need to maintain high mobility – each of these factors influences the final setup.

Direct Action® treats the plate carrier as the foundation of a scalable system. Combined with cummerbunds, front flaps, back panels, pouches, and magazine pouches, it allows operators to build a configuration around the requirements of a specific task. Each component of the system is designed to enhance the operator’s capabilities rather than restrict mobility or access to mission-essential equipment.

This approach is part of the Individual-as-a-System® concept developed by Direct Action®, where equipment is treated as an integrated system tailored to the individual operator, their role, and the mission at hand.

ASSAULTER – MAXIMUM MOBILITY. MINIMUM UNNECESSARY GEAR.

An assaulter operates fast, dynamically, and aggressively. Especially in CQB, seconds can determine the outcome. Ergonomics, unrestricted movement, and immediate access to weapons, magazines, and essential equipment are therefore critical.

This setup is designed primarily for missions where speed and mobility take priority over the ability to carry large amounts of additional equipment.

HEAVY ASSAULTER – GREATER PROTECTION FOR GREATER THREATS.

Not every operation allows for a minimalist approach. In high-threat environments, increased operator protection and the ability to carry more ammunition and equipment become priorities.

In the Heavy Assaulter configuration, some mobility is deliberately traded for a higher level of protection. The setup can be expanded with additional protective components, including soft armor, while its configuration provides greater load-carrying capacity.

ASSAULTER QR – RAPID RELEASE WHEN IT MATTERS.

Operations conducted on or around water place additional demands on equipment. In an emergency, the ability to rapidly ditch the plate carrier together with the complete loadout can have a direct impact on operator safety.

The Assaulter QR configuration is built around the Spitfire QR Plate Carrier, equipped with Duraflex® QRS quick-release buckles on the shoulders and cummerbund. The system allows the carrier to be rapidly removed and then put back on while retaining full functionality – for example, after providing medical assistance.

MEDIC – SAVING LIVES WITHOUT SACRIFICING COMBAT CAPABILITY.

A team medic remains a full-fledged member of the assault team. They must be prepared both to fight and to provide immediate care to a casualty. The setup must provide rapid access to medical equipment without restricting access to weapons and essential gear.

JTAC – COMMUNICATION AND COORDINATION AS PRIORITIES.

A JTAC’s role requires an entirely different approach to equipment configuration. Coordinating air support and managing communications means carrying multiple radios, PTTs, navigation devices, phones, map pouches, and additional equipment.

The JTAC configuration is built around organizing this equipment, providing easy access to communications, and enabling the operator to work effectively over extended periods.

In this role, the plate carrier becomes more than a protective and load-bearing platform. It serves as the foundation of a system that allows the operator to manage multiple means of communication while maintaining access to the rest of their equipment.

LOW PROFILE – WHEN DISCRETION AND SURPRISE ARE KEY.

In some operations, discretion and surprise provide a critical advantage.

The choice between the Hellcat Low Vis Plate Carrier and the Corsair Low Profile Plate Carrier depends on the amount of equipment carried and the nature of the mission. Both were designed to provide protection while minimizing their impact on freedom of movement and the operator’s visual signature, but each addresses a slightly different set of requirements.

The Hellcat Low Vis Plate Carrier can be worn discreetly under a jacket or sweatshirt, but it can also serve as an outer plate carrier. It is an ideal solution when you need to keep a low profile while maintaining greater firepower. The individual pockets in the front flap and cummerbund can accommodate rifle, pistol, or SMG magazines, allowing the setup to be adapted to the weapon system without any modifications. The carrier is also compatible with selected components from the Spitfire system, while the buckles on the front panel make it compatible with most Direct Action® chest rigs.

The Corsair Low Profile Plate Carrier takes minimalism a step further. It was designed primarily for covert wear under clothing – even beneath a lightweight shirt. Components that would add bulk or increase the carrier’s visual signature, such as additional Velcro panels, flaps, or extensive external modularity, have been eliminated. Its elastic cummerbund features internal pockets for magazines and a compact radio.

THE MISSION DEFINES THE SETUP.

Assaulter, Heavy Assaulter, Assaulter QR, Medic, JTAC, and Low Profile represent six different approaches to equipment configuration. These are example setups that can be modified according to individual needs, preferences, and mission requirements.

Together, they demonstrate the fundamental principle behind the Direct Action® system: define the mission requirements first. Configure the gear second.

The gear should follow the mission – not the other way around.

directactiongear.com/en/plate-carriers/mission-setup-execution

Useful links:
youtu.be/gtzMQF6doA0
youtu.be/AWJ66GIjyLU
youtu.be/AL0Fn0v8vxo
youtu.be/Unu1Jtg4AiY

NIOA to Unveil Training Payload for SYPAQ Corvo at Land Forces 2026

October 1st, 2026

All-Australian… the SYPAQ Systems CsUAS CORVO interceptor with the NIOA family of payloads.
1 OCTOBER 2026

NIOA will use the stage of the Land Forces International Defence Exposition in Perth to unveil for the first time the training and live payload being developed for the SYPAQ Systems CORVO Counter small Uncrewed Aerial System (CsUAS) interceptor platform.

The training payload represents a significant milestone in NIOA’s contribution to the sovereign Australian counter-drone capability being developed by SYPAQ for the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA) Mission Syracuse.

The capability combines NIOA’s expertise in fuzing, warheads and explosive ordnance engineering with the Australian-designed and manufactured CORVO interceptor platform developed by SYPAQ Systems.

The functionally representative training payload integrates a telemetry-capable Power & Interface Controller (PIC) electronic subsystem, Proximity Fuze, inert Electronic Safety, Arming & Functioning (ESAF) device plus an inert mass representative kinetic effector payload, enabling comprehensive flight testing and data collection ahead of live payload qualification activities.

NIOA Australia-New Zealand Executive Vice President Ben James said the industry unveiling demonstrated the rapid progress Australian defence industry SMEs could achieve through collaboration.

“Less than six months after partnering with SYPAQ on their work under Mission Syracuse, and engaging Hydrix to provide electronic design integration support to SYPAQ, we are proud to showcase a tangible capability that highlights the strength of Australia’s sovereign defence industrial base,” he said.

“This CORVO interceptor training payload is an important step toward delivering a credible, scalable and operationally relevant counter-drone capability for the Australian Defence Force.

“The schedule in which this payload has been developed is a real testament to the skilled workforce and exceptional collaboration between SYPAQ Systems, NIOA and Hydrix.”

The development program brings together Australian-owned defence companies NIOA, SYPAQ Systems and Hydrix, combining expertise in explosive ordnance design, electronics engineering, advanced software integration and uncrewed systems development.

Amanda Holt, Managing Director and CEO, SYPAQ Systems said: “Working in partnership with NIOA, supported by our sovereign supply chain members, allows us both to accelerate the design, development and demonstration of the Corvo Strike C-UAS capability through ASCA Mission Syracuse. SYPAQ is proud to lead this endeavour drawing upon our expertise in autonomous systems, guidance, navigation and control, and mission systems integration.

“NIOA’s expertise delivers both a mission optimised, modular warhead capability, whilst providing an inert training capability, to the program. This allows rapid risk reduction and future mission expansion – by design.”

Hydrix recently completed delivery of a benchtop integration system supporting software development, platform-interface communications and integration of key payload subsystems.

The company is responsible for development of the PIC electronics subsystem, a critical subsystem incorporating telemetry, safety interlocks, fuzing logic and Picatinny Common Lethality Integration Kit (CLIK) compatible platform interface functions.

Hydrix Director Development & Delivery Andrew Beal said the milestone demonstrated Hydrix’s ability to rapidly translate complex Defence requirements into working technology.

“Defence capability development needs to move from concept to field evaluation at a pace that matches the threat,” he said.

“This project demonstrates the value Hydrix can bring to sovereign capability development, solving complex integration challenges and helping emerging defence technologies mature rapidly from concept through to operationally relevant capability.”

To see the NIOA family of training and live payloads, visit the NIOA stand #4G16 Land Forces 2026 from October 6-8.

Hegseth Delivers ‘State of the Force’ Address, Outlines Series of New Initiatives

October 1st, 2026

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth delivered a speech on the status of the military today, during which he announced six new initiatives for the War Department. 

Speaking to both a broadcast audience and 600 O-3 officers and E-6 enlisted service members at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Hegseth began by recounting the successful progress he has seen across the department over the past year. 

“For almost two years, you’ve heard me talk — over and over — about three core priorities: reviving the warrior ethos, rebuilding our military and reestablishing deterrence. And I’m proud to stand on this stage and report that the warrior ethos has been revived, our military is being rebuilt and American deterrence is back,” he said early in his remarks. 

The secretary went on to emphasize the high recruitment and retention numbers over the past year, mention that military standards that existed in 1990 are back in 2026 and discuss the “E-6/O-3 Rule” — the concept that asks whether a policy, procedure or decision helps or hinders the operational effectiveness and daily reality of an E-6 and/or O-3. 

“We fight to win. Clear missions, full hearts, hands untied. It’s all I ever wanted as a platoon leader, and it’s all my E-6 squad leaders ever wanted. … We let our leaders fight their formations, and then we have their back. It’s simple, yet you know in your business it’s incredibly powerful and liberating,” Hegseth said. 

After recapping the past year and reemphasizing the War Department’s priorities of strengthening the warrior ethos, rebuilding the military and maintaining peace through strength via deterrence, Hegseth outlined his six new initiatives: 

  • The creation of a new 4-star level combatant command: Autonomous Warfare Command. 
  • An effort to study the future of warfare titled “Project Meridian.” 
  • A future program that aims to align basing and infrastructure projects to ensure they are collectively advancing toward greater independence titled, federal operations for resilience, troop resources, energy, supply and survivability, or “Fortress America.” 
  • Calling for a new, state-of-the-art military installation through a project titled, “The Next Great American Base.” 
  • Expanding the ranks of future leaders commissioning into the joint force through a program that expands military training beyond the country’s military service academies and six military colleges to additional institutions of higher learning, titled “America’s Corps of Cadets.” 
  • Establishing an Office of Religious Affairs. 

Regarding the new combatant command, Autowarcom, Hegseth said that once established, it will focus on building autonomous and robotic capabilities across the joint force in “the fastest peacetime shift in modern history.” 

Additionally, the secretary announced that he has directed the direct reporting portfolio manager for unmanned systems to lead “Project Agincourt,” an organization that will establish the pathway for Autowarcom, as well as to execute the existing unmanned systems mission while prototyping a new acquisition model. 

Hegseth also said new military occupational specialties will be created in each military department to support the shift to autonomy. 

“Today, with … Autowarcom, we institutionalize — and we supercharge — the era of [super intelligence], robotics and autonomous systems, all in order to win,” he said. 

Turning next to Project Meridian, Hegseth said the Pentagon’s chief technology officer would partner with members of the private sector to study the future of warfare, and that the project is not about developing new strategies or policies. 

“Rather, its purpose is to creatively look into the future and identify the domains we must conquer, and capabilities we must master … to achieve technological and military dominance on the battlefield for decades to come; it is futuristic, on purpose,” Hegseth said. 

Regarding the Fortress America program, Hegseth said it calls for every American military installation to eventually run under its own power, hardening every installation on American soil against intrusion and bringing critical supply chains home. 

“No matter the circumstance, this department will have the power, the equipment and the supplies you need to take the fight to the enemy.?… The Department of War will be the insurance policy for the entire nation,” he said. 

Hegseth’s talk of Fortress America then segued into discussing the concept behind The Next Great American Base project, which he said will be a dynamic, self-sustaining power projection platform, and that leaders of every state in the union would be able to provide a “sales pitch” as to why the new installation should be in their state. 

“If your state wants the honor of hosting 15,000 to 25,000 of America’s great troops, show us why and how you’re going to do it — cutting through the red tape, offering up the land and rolling out the red carpet for our military families,” Hegseth said. 

Regarding America’s Corps of Cadets, the secretary said the Pentagon is partnering with six universities to increase the number of leaders who can commission into the military.  

“By embedding continuous military discipline and leadership development into new institutions — by growing our Corps of Cadets — the War Department will ensure our republic is defended by even more officers of unwavering character and patriotism,” Hegseth said. 

Turning to his final of the six initiatives, that of the Office of Religious Affairs, Hegseth said religious services in the military have been neglected and bureaucratized for too long. 

“Ninety-five percent of our force recognizes an Almighty God. Accordingly, our department has a sacred duty: first-class religious support, wherever we send our warriors,” Hegseth said. He also noted that the new office will report directly to the secretary of war’s office to cut through red tape. 

“This is not going to be a paper-pushing shop;?it’s going to have real teeth.?It’ll protect budgets, demand infrastructure and strengthen religious support,” Hegseth said. 

The secretary emphasized that the six announcements were all for the warfighters, as he and the War Department view them as the top 1% of society. 

“You are warriors; with that title comes great expectations. So, go forth this day and do good things, hard things. President [Donald J.] Trump has your back, and so do I,” Hegseth said. 

“We are the War Department, and we never back down — Godspeed,” he concluded. 

Today’s State of the Force speech came exactly one year to the day since Hegseth announced a series of new directives aimed at strengthening the War Department’s people and culture to the U.S. military’s most senior leaders, also at Quantico.

By Matthew Olay, Pentagon News

AFSOC Proves HAVOC SPEAR Precise and Effective

October 1st, 2026

NATIONAL HARBOR, MD. —  

Air Force Special Operations Command announced its small cruise missile, the AGM-190A Havoc Spear, has been evaluated in a test configuration and successfully meets requirements to become an available weapons system for broader real-world use across a variety of special operations and conventional aircraft.

Havoc Spear is a mission-adaptable, modular-design small cruise missile that can be rapidly produced at relatively low cost. During a combat evaluation in the spring of 2026, the new missile’s capabilities proved to be accurate and effective when employed from an AFSOC platform in a test configuration, meeting AFSOC’s requirement for a small cruise missile.

“Havoc Spear’s range and capabilities expands standoff options, giving commanders a versatile tool to neutralize threats without putting platforms or personnel in immediate danger,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Mike Conley, AFSOC commander. “It’s also not lost on us the value of being able to test a new weapon system in combat – and prove its success on the battlefield early on in the process.”

AFSOC partnered with U.S. Africa Command to conduct the combat evaluation within the Combatant Command’s area of responsibility.

“We work every day to disrupt the networks that have made Africa the epicenter of global terrorism,” said U.S. Air Force Gen. Dagvin Anderson, AFRICOM commander. “These successful operational assessments prove we will continue to bring the unique capabilities only the U.S. can provide in order to defend U.S. interests alongside our partners.”

Working with industry partners, U.S. Special Operations Command spearheaded the acquisition of Havoc Spear on behalf of AFSOC using a cooperative research & development agreement to leverage the rapid, iterative weapon-development system. CRADA allows users to move faster than standard acquisition timelines to field innovative capabilities like Havoc Spear to the warfighter.

“To outpace our adversaries, we can’t rely on traditional acquisition pipelines,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Robert Johnston, AFSOC director of strategic plans, programs and requirements. “AFSOC is eager to explore more agile, lesser-known pathways to modernization to deepen industry partnerships, leverage calculated risks, and rapidly deliver capabilities to our warfighters.”

Havoc Spear’s capability will enhance lethality, create dilemmas for adversaries, and reinforce AFSOC’s commitment to maintain a decisive advantage against emerging threats across all domains. AFSOC continues to adapt, maintaining its steadfast commitment to providing exquisite support to ensure the joint force, special operations forces, and Department of the Air Force can conduct uncontested global operations.

Via Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs

New Rabbit Rounds Multi-projectile Ammunition from Franklin Armory Creates More Sporting Fun for America’s Favorite Gun

September 30th, 2026

MINDEN, Nev. – September 30, 2026 – Franklin Armory, one of America’s leading manufacturers of innovative firearms, accessories—and now ammunition—today announced Rabbit Rounds™, a new multiple-projectile cartridge designed to more effectively harvest smaller game with the ubiquitous AR-style Modern Sporting Rifle (MSR).

Franklin Armory’s patent-pending Rabbit Rounds feature four spin-stabilized projectiles, encased in a multi-piece, self-discarding sabot. Rabbit Rounds are available in 5.56x45mm for use with AR-pattern firearms chambered in .223 Remington, .223 Wylde, and 5.56 NATO. The company plans to bring Rabbit Rounds in additional popular hunting calibers to market soon.

Rabbit Rounds provide coyote, wild pig and other medium-sized game hunters with an alternative to more cleanly harvest smaller game with non-expanding, shotgun-like pellets. Each 45-grain Rabbit Round projectile assembly provides more than double the typical shotshell speed and power, achieving 3,150 feet-per-second muzzle velocity and 992 ft-lbs. of energy from a 16-inch AR-15 rifled barrel. The imparted spin-stabilization on Rabbit Round’s four hard-hitting lead projectiles maintain an effective pattern beyond 40 yards, increasing hit probability on fast-moving targets over single projectile ammunition.

“Rabbit Rounds allow your AR to fire super-velocity, spin-stabilized shot,” said Franklin Armory President Jay Jacobson. “This ammunition greatly expands the sporting capabilities of .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO firearms.”

Rabbit Rounds are available directly from Franklin Armory and through certified dealers. For testing and evaluation of Rabbit Rounds, please email media@franklinarmory.com.

General Dynamics Mission Systems Selected to Deliver Next-Generation Terrain Shaping Capability for the US Army

September 30th, 2026

Autonomously emplaced Versatile Networked Obstacle Munitions (VNOM) system restores counter-mobility capability

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – General Dynamics Mission Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), has been selected by the U.S. Army Project Manager Close Combat Systems to develop and demonstrate the Versatile Networked Obstacle Munitions (VNOM) System, addressing a critical counter-mobility capability for the Army.

As one of three contractors selected for award, General Dynamics Mission Systems self-funded the VNOM development from concept to demonstrated prototype prior to award. The system autonomously emplaces mixed-modal effectors combining air, side and bottom attack modes into a coordinated obstacle, removing Soldiers from the contested zone entirely. The contract accelerates development of a next-generation, terrain-shaping system of systems, with the prototype effort structured to evaluate readiness, effectiveness and suitability for future development, production and fielding.

“VNOM is not a concept paper. It is a demonstrated, Soldier-informed system that General Dynamics Mission Systems self-funded and built on years of integration experience with Combat Engineer units,” said Todd Hack, vice president of Advanced Electronic Systems at General Dynamics Mission Systems. “We are proud to deliver a solution that keeps Soldiers out of harm’s way while providing the counter-mobility superiority our forces need.”

“This effort and these three contractors will take advantage of emerging technology to rapidly provide our warfighters with a next-generation obstacle capability that is both adaptable and responsive to dynamic operational environments. By integrating advanced technologies into a cohesive system of systems, we will enable U.S. and U.K. commanders to shape the battlefield with greater precision and at significantly reduced risk to personnel,” said Col. Vince Morris, Program Manager Close Combat Systems.

General Dynamics Mission Systems leads a team including AeroVironment, General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, General Dynamics Land Systems, Swarmbotics AI, Corvid, SARA and Harkind.

General Dynamics Mission Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), provides mission-critical solutions to the challenges facing our defense, intelligence and cybersecurity customers across all domains. Headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, General Dynamics Mission Systems employs approximately 12,000 people worldwide. For more information about the General Dynamics Mission Systems broad portfolio of capabilities, visit gdmissionsystems.com.