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US and German Forces Compete for Coveted Marksmanship Badge

March 28th, 2026

PIRMASENS, Germany– In a display of camaraderie and tactical skill, American service members from across the Kaiserslautern and Stuttgart Military Community joined their German Bundeswehr counterparts today for the Schützenschnur, a prestigious German armed forces badge for weapons proficiency.

The not only tested the participants’ marksmanship but also strengthened the spirit of cooperation recently forged during the German-American Friendship Days in Ramstein.

The diverse American contingent included soldiers from Public Health Command Europe, Veterinary Readiness Activity, Rheinland Pfalz, security forces from the 596th United States Forces Police Squadron, a member of the 86th Medical Squadron from Landstuhl Regional Medical Center and several of their Navy counterparts. This broad participation underscores the deep level of cooperation between the allied nations.

The Schützenschnur, a tradition with deep roots in German military history, is a highly respected decoration and a testament to a soldier’s shooting prowess.

Participants fired the German G36 rifle and the P8 pistol. The G36 is a 5.56x45mm assault rifle that has been the standard issue for the Bundeswehr since 1997 and the P8 is the German military’s standard service pistol.

For many of the American participants, the experience was a unique opportunity to step outside their own military’s standard procedures and equipment.

Sergeant Jhonas Lopez, Brigade S1 noncommissioned officer in charge at PHCE, shared his enthusiasm for the cross-cultural exchange.

“I enjoyed the most was getting to work with our International partners and get a feel of their weapon systems and comparing it to what we use on the U.S. side,” said Lopez.

The event was not without its trials. The demanding course of fire pushed the service members to their limits.

“The most challenging part was having to move to the next fighting position and engage the target,” Lopez explained. “My heart rate was running and it made it more interesting.”

Despite the difficulty, Lopez said his goal was to earn the highest-level badge. “Gold is the standard!” he declared.

The sentiment of partnership and mutual respect was echoed by the German hosts.

“My goal is for everyone to have fun, stay safe and earn a Schützenschnur they can wear with pride,” stated Bundeswehr Senior Master Sgt. Brian Wagner. “Above all, this was a chance to build partnerships with our allies, connect and exchange expertise.”

Notably, all participating soldiers from Public Health Command Europe achieved the gold standard. Earning the gold Schützenschnur, the highest of three levels, requires a soldier to achieve the top score on all weapon systems in the competition, demonstrating exceptional marksmanship.

The following soldiers from Public Health Command Europe were recognized for their participation:

Capt. Javier Pino

Sgt. 1st Class Marissa Henson

Staff Sgt. Tatiana Jones

Sgt. Syarra Bermudez

Sgt. Dayton Crawford

Sgt. Jhonas Lopez

By Michelle Thum

Posted in Army, Guest Post, International | No Comments »

United States Space Force Awards AnySignal to Fortify MILSATCOM Against Electronic Warfare

March 27th, 2026

LOS ANGELES, March 25, 2026 — AnySignal announced it has been selected by the United States Space Force (USSF) to field their Resilient, Agile, and Interference-Defiant Network for Secure Military Satellite Communications (MILSATCOM) and Space Data Network (SDN). This contract will accelerate the fielding of a combat-ready architecture designed to ensure mission continuity in Contested, Denied, and Degraded (CDD) environments.

As near-peer adversaries increasingly deploy sophisticated Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities to disrupt allied command and control, the reliance on centralized, rigid satellite links has become a critical vulnerability. AnySignal is addressing this operational gap by delivering autonomous, decentralized communications architecture in the face of adversarial spectrum denial.

“The modern battlespace requires communications infrastructure that is as dynamic and resilient as the warfighters it supports,” said John Malsbury, CEO at AnySignal. “AnySignal’s Defense platform is moving beyond static links to a self-healing network that autonomously navigates the spectrum to defeat interference.”

The effort focuses on maturing and validating the system for operational deployment. At the core of the solution is AnySignal’s Defense platform bolstering hardened Military Satellite Communications and the Space Data Network.

How AnySignal’s Defense platform is Advancing Resilient Military Communications in Contested Environments:

Autonomous Adaptation – Detects jamming in real time and autonomously adapts to maintain uninterrupted mission communications.

Waveform Agility and Reconfigurability – Allows rapid switching between Low Probability Intercept/Detection (LPI/LPD) waveforms for tactical concealment at the edge and high-throughput backhaul.

Advanced Threat Mitigation – Intelligent radios sense the spectrum and dynamically adjust links, power, and routing under adversarial pressure.

Zero Packet Loss – Autonomous rerouting preserves mission-critical data with no interruption, even in degraded environments.

Strategic Impact and Transition
AnySignal directly supports the Department of War’s vision for CJADC2 and the Space Data Network by ensuring reliable, assured data transport across heterogeneous platforms. As integrated defense initiatives like Golden Dome demand continuous, interference-resistant connectivity across distributed nodes, AnySignal provides the resilient communications backbone these architectures require.

Posted in Comms, Contracts, EW, Press Release, Space | Comments Off on United States Space Force Awards AnySignal to Fortify MILSATCOM Against Electronic Warfare

Rheinmetall Marks 40 Years of Canadian Innovation and Economic Contributions

March 27th, 2026

Rheinmetall is celebrating its 40th anniversary since establishing operations in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. Over the past four decades, the company has become a trusted partner of militaries around the world and creates jobs, drives innovation, and generates economic benefits across Canada.

Since its establishment in 1986, Rheinmetall Canada has grown to be a global defence and security company providing multi-domain advanced solutions to armed forces worldwide. Its successes over the years have garnered international recognition for expertise in the design and integration of C4I solutions, vehicle systems and weapon systems and is the Canadian leader in autonomous ground systems.

Today, Rheinmetall’s solutions are deployed around the world bolstering international security and ensuring interoperability with Canada’s closest allies in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Global leaders in autonomy

Rheinmetall Canada develops sovereign technologies for autonomous ground systems, rigorously tested in collaboration with allied nations such as Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States. These efforts have resulted in highly adaptable and reliable solutions designed for specific missions and capable of supporting operations in multi-domain environments.

By incorporating lessons learnt from collaboration with Canada’s key allies, the Mission Master family of autonomous vehicles and the PATH autonomy kit have established themselves as industry standards, ensuring full interoperability with NATO member nations.

Valuable economic benefits for Canada

Though its international recognition is held in high regard, Rheinmetall Canada’s focus has remained at home. With operations in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Ottawa, and Edmonton, and a supply chain of over 900 small-to-medium businesses across Canada, Rheinmetall Canada has spent the past four decades leveraging Canadian expertise to deliver more than 20 programs to the Canadian Armed Forces, generating more than CAD 1.5 billion in industrial benefits. In addition, Rheinmetall Canada is proudly engaging with Indigenous communities to strengthen their participation across its supply chain and foster inclusive economic growth.

Rheinmetall Canada has a proven track record of localizing programs such as the Multi-Ammunition Softkill System (MASS), the Mobile Air Starter Unit (MSU), and the Remote-Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS). Building on this foundation, the company has grown exports of Canadian-developed solutions while maintaining economic benefits for its valuable domestic supply chain.

Global demand for the Rheinmetall Path Autonomous Kit and Mission Master suite of autonomous vehicles have further driven domestic growth, enabling expanded production capacity through international partners in the Nordics, Europe and North America—all led by Canada.

A strong advocate for research and development, Rheinmetall Canada collaborates with post-secondary institutions and research centres to advance military and dual-use technologies. By field-testing solutions in real-world environments, Rheinmetall pushes the boundaries of innovation and cements Canada’s position as a driver of next-generation defence capabilities.

A proud Canadian company

As countries around the world turn their focus to next-generation applications to modernize their forces, Rheinmetall Canada is a well-positioned industry leader while maintaining the benefits at home. A continued partnership with Rheinmetall is a commitment to modernize our forces, create high-quality Canadian jobs, grow exports, and strengthen national sovereignty – and this with Canadian-born and Canadian-developed solutions.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Safariland Announces Alien Gear Holsters to Join Cadre Holdings Portfolio of Brands

March 27th, 2026

JACKSONVILLE, Florida – Cadre Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CDRE) (“Cadre” or “the Company”), a global leader in the manufacturing and distribution of safety equipment and other related products for the law enforcement, first responder, military and nuclear markets, today announced that it has agreed to acquire Alien Gear Holsters and certain assets from Tedder Industries, LLC, for $10.3 million through a court-supervised bankruptcy auction.

Cadre President Brad Williams commented, “This transaction represents a compelling opportunity to acquire a recognized holster brand with an established direct-to-consumer presence. Alien Gear brings an experienced team with a customer-first mindset, and we are excited about the attractive business synergies and growth opportunities ahead. As always, the Cadre operating model will guide our execution, driving continuous improvement across our businesses and reinforcing our market leadership over the long term.”

Launched in 2014, Alien Gear Holsters is a leading manufacturer of proprietary holsters and gear for the consumer, law enforcement, military, and security markets. Alien Gear’s innovation-driven approach has elevated consumer holster standards and enhanced safety, performance and comfort for everyday firearm carry worldwide.

Subject to bankruptcy court and regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, the transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026.

Posted in Holsters, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Safariland Announces Alien Gear Holsters to Join Cadre Holdings Portfolio of Brands

Silvus Technologies – Streamscape ATAK Plugin

March 27th, 2026

Silvus Technologies StreamScape ATAK Plugin brings control of StreamCaster MANET radios to your handheld ATAK-enabled EUD via the intuitive StreamScape GUI.

Features:

Real-Time Radio Configuration: Directly adjust network-wide configurations, radio frequency, bandwidth, link distance, transmit power, and many more parameters.

Dynamic Network Topology Visualization: View network topology overlaid on the ATAK map, including node status and link quality (50+ nodes).

Performance Monitoring & Diagnostics: Real-time signal-to-noise ratio reporting, interference level display, and battery voltage and percentage monitoring for all connected radios.

Rapid Mission Reconfiguration from EUD: Instantly change Mission Profiles and other parameters directly from your End User Device.

Login Authentication: Adds a username and password requirement to the radio. Even if the device is stolen, unauthorized users cannot access features, view settings, or retrieve encryption keys.

PTT & Talk Group Management: Manage active and monitored talk groups and easily adjust channels and volume for connected audio devices. Pop-up notifications on the ATAK map identify active speakers.

It’s free!

Learn more and download at silvustechnologies.com/products/streamscape

Posted in Comms, TAK | No Comments »

Heller Foundation Announces Partnership with Greenline Tactical

March 27th, 2026

Dear Friends, Supporters, and Partners,

I am thrilled to announce an exciting new strategic partnership between The Heller Foundation and Greenline Tactical, a premier provider of advanced firearms and tactical training. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our shared mission to promote responsible firearms ownership, enhance personal and community safety, and ensure that law-abiding Americans have access to the highest-quality instruction grounded in real-world experience and constitutional principles.

As the lead plaintiff in the landmark District of Columbia v. Heller case—which affirmed the individual right to keep and bear arms for self-defense under the Second Amendment—I have dedicated my work through The Heller Foundation to education, training, and advocacy that empowers citizens nationwide. Partnering with Greenline Tactical allows us to expand our impact by designating them as our preferred training partners for firearms instruction and specialized active shooter response training.

This partnership is particularly meaningful because of the exceptional leadership and expertise of Don Edwards and Sam Houston at Greenline Tactical. Don Edwards, the founder and lead instructor, brings over 20 years of experience as a U.S. Army Special Operations veteran, with extensive service providing tactical advisory support to the Department of Defense in high-threat environments, including Iraq and Afghanistan. He is a FLETC-certified firearms instructor and a respected figure in the industry for his hands-on, no-nonsense approach to training.

Sam Houston, a 10-year U.S. Navy veteran who served as a Flight Tech and Sensor Operator in combat operations, complements Don’s expertise with specialized knowledge in night vision tactics, surveillance, and defensive skills. Together, Don and Sam have built Greenline Tactical into a trusted source for elite training, including their renowned Night Operations Summit and courses tailored for law enforcement, military, and responsible civilians.
I am especially enthusiastic about our joint focus on active shooter training for houses of worship, schools, synagogues, and other soft-target community institutions nationwide. In an era where threats to innocent lives are all too real, equipping faith leaders, educators, administrators, and congregants with practical, life-saving skills is essential to preserving our freedoms and protecting our communities.

As I often say: “I’m incredibly excited about this partnership with Greenline Tactical. Don Edwards and Sam Houston are true professionals with unmatched credentials—decades of elite military service, proven combat experience, and a commitment to excellence in training. By teaming up, we’re not just teaching skills; we’re strengthening the Second Amendment in action, helping everyday Americans defend themselves, their families, and their places of worship with confidence and competence.”

Kristie Tertel, our National Director of Legislative Policy and Senior Advisor to the White House, and Jessica Spindle, Global Director of Community Outreach and Business Development, share this heightened enthusiasm in a joint statement- and has been instrumental in advancing our policy and outreach efforts. They add: “This strategic alliance with Greenline Tactical, led by Don Edwards and Sam Houston, is a game-changer for The Heller Foundation. Their elite backgrounds ensure that our training programs deliver real-world preparedness, particularly for protecting vulnerable spaces like churches, schools, and synagogues. We’re proud to elevate responsible firearms education and active shooter response nationwide, empowering communities to exercise their constitutional rights safely and effectively.”

“As the founder of Greenline Tactical I’m proud to be partnering with The Heller Foundation to provide quality life saving skills to responsible citizens and I’m looking forward to the future of this relationship.” -Don Edwards , Founder and Lead Instructor, Greenline Tactical.

Sam Houston, Instructor at Greenline Tactical, adds his perspective: “For what it’s worth—my two cents—this partnership with The Heller Foundation is a natural fit. Don and I have spent years honing life-saving tactics in the most demanding environments, and now we get to bring that expertise directly to communities that need it most. Together, we’re building real preparedness for churches, schools, synagogues, and beyond, empowering good people to protect the innocent without apology.”

The Heller Foundation looks forward to rolling out joint training programs, workshops, and resources in the coming months. For more information on upcoming sessions or how your organization can get involved, please visit our website or contact us directly.
Thank you for your continued support of The Heller Foundation’s mission to defend, protect and educate on the Second Amendment. Together, we are building a safer, more prepared America.

Sincerely,

Dick Heller
Founder and Executive Director
The Heller Foundation

Posted in 2A, Guest Post, Training | No Comments »

FirstSpear Friday Focus: March Merch Drop

March 27th, 2026

New merchandise from FirstSpear has arrived, bringing updated favorites and everyday essentials into one lineup.

The SPICY UBER v2 T-SHIRT builds on the popularity of the original design with a refreshed look and the same comfortable, all-day wearability.

The BFTX COFFEE TUMBLER delivers durable, dependable performance, built to handle early mornings, long hours, and constant movement without compromise.

The ROPE TRUCKER HAT is offered in two styles and colorways, both providing a structured, breathable fit with a clean profile, built for consistent everyday wear.

The ICON SPEAR TIP HAT delivers a classic trucker style with the same unmistakable FirstSpear branding and reliable comfort. It adds a timeless edge with a versatile profile that transitions easily from on-duty environments to off-duty wear.

Each piece stands on its own, combining function, durability, and identity—gear designed to perform wherever the day takes you.

To request an estimate click image above or visit First-Spear.com/Request-For-Estimate. FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting-edge tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train. For more information visit First-Spear.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post, Morale | Comments Off on FirstSpear Friday Focus: March Merch Drop

Joint Force Comes Together for Special Operations Sniper Competition

March 27th, 2026

In a demanding test of precision, endurance and teamwork, 17 elite sniper teams participated in the U.S. Army Special Operations Command International Sniper Competition at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, March 15-19.

The U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School hosted the competition, now in its 17th year. Special Forces sniper course instructors and leadership designed the various challenges and served as officials and scorekeepers.

“This competition represents the pinnacle of the sniper craft,” said Army Col. Simon Powelson, commander of the 2nd Special Warfare Training Group. “We have brought together highly trained teams from across the joint force and partner nations. These competitors are not just here by chance; they are the product of intense and specialized training within their respective units.”

The five-day event included special operations forces representing multiple allied nations with participants drawn from the ranks of Army Special Forces, Army Rangers, Naval Special Warfare Command, Marine Forces Special Operations Command and Coast Guard units.

Designed to strengthen interoperability and foster esprit de corps among partner forces, the competition featured a series of complex engagements conducted both during the day and under the cover of darkness that pushed competitors to their physical and mental limits.

Throughout the week, sniper teams of two highly trained operators were evaluated across multiple ranges at Fort Bragg. Competitors demonstrated proficiency with sniper rifles, carbines and pistols, engaging at distances of up to 1,200 meters while adapting to constantly changing scenarios.

The opening day set the tone for the grueling challenge ahead. Persistent thunderstorms brought intermittent rain and strong winds, forcing teams to contend with reduced visibility, slick terrain and unpredictable shooting conditions, adding a layer of realism for competitors.

“The weather played a significant role,” said Timothy Gozelski, the sniper course manager. “Our goal with the wind and rain was to make sure the visibility was the same for all the teams.”

In the following days, the weather cleared, but conditions remained poor. Temperatures dropped to 35 degrees, and variable winds swept across the ranges, complicating long-distance shots.

Competitors had to calculate wind speed and direction on the fly while maintaining communication and coordination with their teammates.

“Good, clear, concise communication is a must,” said Richard Cuza, a sniper course instructor. “It’s beyond important; it’s crucial.”

Each stage of the competition emphasized not only marksmanship but also teamwork.

Sniper pairs had to locate, range and engage multiple targets in rapid succession, often while maneuvering between firing positions. Communication, trust and synchronization proved just as critical as shooting accuracy.

“Being in sync with your teammate is equal in importance to communication,” Gozelski said. “To be successful, the two have to talk and be on the same page in everything they do.”

Organizers emphasized the competition was more than a test of skill. It brought together international partners and joint force teams in a high-stress training environment. As a result, the event allowed competitors to build relationships, and it improved the joint forces’ ability to operate seamlessly in real-world missions.

“It’s awesome to have international teams competing,” Gozelski said. “It helps with interoperability and being able to look at each other’s equipment and techniques. It’s not just about competing; it’s about learning some things from our allies and how they operate. All the foreign teams are thrilled to be here. This competition helps us in expanding operational expertise.”

Cuza added that “it was great to have allies and teams from our sister services here. It will help us in working together and that’s important.”

After five days of intense competition, the Army Special Operations Command team emerged as the overall winner, demonstrating consistent performance across all events and conditions. The Army’s 3rd Special Forces Group team finished second.

As the competition concluded, participants departed not only with sharpened skills but with stronger bonds between allied forces and sister services.

“Most importantly, this competition is a powerful vehicle for building esprit de corps among an elite group of warriors who may one day serve alongside each other,” Powelson said.

By Ken Kassens, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School

Posted in Guest Post, Shooting Sports, SOF | Comments Off on Joint Force Comes Together for Special Operations Sniper Competition