FirstSpear

L4 Performance – LAVS

January 9th, 2026

Weighing in at 380g (size Large) LAWS was designed as a lightweight yet rigid harness for the Crye Precision AVS and their own Maritime L4PC.

It’s offered in a variety of colors and patterns including Black, Coyote, Ranger Green, MultiCam, MC Black, MC Tropic, Woodland and M05 in sizes Small, Medium, and Large.

Available now at www.l4performance.com/product-page/lavs.

FirstSpear Friday Focus: Thin Blue Line T-Shirt

January 9th, 2026

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day lands on Friday, January 9th, and the FirstSpear THIN BLUE LINE T-SHIRT is built to represent those who stand watch when it matters most. This is a no-nonsense way to show respect for the men and women in law enforcement who run toward the problem, hold the line, and keep pushing through the hard days.

Whether you’re training, on the range, off-duty, or just moving through the day, this shirt is designed for comfort and everyday wear without sacrificing the message behind it. The Thin Blue Line graphic says exactly what it needs to—support, unity, and unwavering respect for the badge and the mission.

Offered in both short-sleeve and long sleeve options, it’s ready for any season and any environment. Wear it under kit, layer it up, or run it solo—either way, it stays on mission. Law enforcement is a lifestyle, not a job you clock out of, and this shirt is for the people who understand that. 

It’s also a solid gift for your team, your family, or anyone who carries that responsibility every shift. On January 9th, don’t just say you support them—show it. Grab the FirstSpear Thin Blue Line T-Shirt and stand behind those who protect and serve.

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.

XVIII Airborne Corps Delivering on SECARMY Innovation Priorities

January 9th, 2026

FORT BRAGG, N.C. – Since assuming the Army’s top civilian role, Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll has made one message abundantly clear: the Army must innovate faster, transform deeper, and fundamentally accelerate the pace of acquisition if it intends to win the wars of tomorrow.

During an address at the Association of the United States Army’s annual conference in October, Driscoll underscored the urgency behind his vision. “Nobody can predict the next war,” he said, “but we cannot wait to innovate until Americans are dying on the battlefield. We must act now to enable our Soldiers.”

XVIII Airborne Corps leading the charge

The XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg, North Carolina, are in lockstep with the Secretary’s priorities. On Dec. 1, 2025, the Corps held the soft opening of the Lt. Gen. James M. Gavin Joint Innovation Outpost – a collaboration hub designed to rapidly translate emerging technologies into battlefield overmatch.

“Here we are, day one of the JIOP opening, and we’re already connecting small businesses to the military ecosystem,” said Lt. Gen. Gregory Anderson, commanding general of the XVIII Airborne Corps. “We coordinated for a product demonstration and now we have a proposed solution to an Army wide problem. That’s the power of the JIOP – creating an avenue to connect small businesses and academia to the Army to help solve operational problems.”

The JIOP model removes barriers, shortens timelines and brings Soldiers, academics, industry leaders and decision-makers together early in the development process to create impactful solutions that close capability gaps and support the Corps’ mission as America’s Contingency Corps.

Coinciding with the JIOP soft launch was an industry showcase at Oak Grove Technology Center, a 200-plus-acre kinetic training range about an hour west of Fort Bragg. During the two-day event, four small businesses demonstrated systems ranging from counter-sUAS tools, handheld radio frequency detection devices, and a next generation dynamic target system designed to replicate enemies ducking behind cover.

A major theme across the event was the rising threat of unmanned systems. As Driscoll stated in a November interview with Reuters, “Drones are the future of warfare, and we must invest in both offensive and defensive capabilities against them.”

One of the companies demonstrating solutions was Drone Rounds, based in Gilbert, Arizona. The team showcased a kinetic counter-sUAS round fired from a standard 5.56 mm rifle. Instead of firing a single projectile, the round disperses in-flight like a shotgun shell, significantly increasing hit probability on fast-moving drones.

On multiple occasions throughout the day, Conor Schnepf, owner of Drone Rounds, reiterated the value of the JIOP and how it enables non-traditional defense companies the opportunity to get in front of the Army. He lauded the JIOP’s emphasis on prioritizing innovation and speed, reinforcing the direction set forth by Army senior leaders.

Setting the conditions

Another priority for Driscoll is challenging legacy contracting practices that restrict units from maintaining or repairing their own equipment, a concept often referred to as the right to repair.

He emphasized this point in a recent interview on The Shawn Ryan Show, where he referenced a 101st Airborne Division artillery maintenance effort where he personally empowered Soldiers to take whatever actions necessary to restore howitzers to the firing line.

By underwriting the potential legal risk, Driscoll reinforced that lethality and readiness come first, and that commanders and Soldiers are empowered to solve problems at the point of need.

Strategic Logix, a Georgia-based UAS manufacturing company, attended the Oak Groves showcase, and reiterated throughout their demonstration that right to repair is their default maintenance plan for its UAS systems.

The pivot toward continuous transformation is reshaping outdated procurement systems, and senior-level momentum is providing the roadmap for industry partners that want to engage.

“The paradigm is shifting in the Army with innovation and transformation, it’s palpable and great news for the JIOP,” said Rob Braun, chief technology Officer, XVIII Airborne Corps. “Not only are industry partners ecstatic to work with us, but we now have a dedicated space to innovate at the pace of industry to enhance lethality for our warfighters.”

The way forward

The JIOP will serve as the intersection of innovation, technology and warfighting for the XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg. It will also function as the innovation nexus for multiple transformation initiatives already underway.

Dragon’s Lair, modeled after the TV show Shark Tank, is an innovation competition that provides a platform for service members of all ranks to propose and pitch creative solutions to challenges faced by XVIII Airborne Soldiers.

The installation also hosts Scarlet Dragon.

“Scarlet Dragon is our innovation exercise,” said Braun. “It’s our platform to bring new technologies and new approaches to solve operational capability gaps and requirements that we derive from different operational plans around the globe.”

The JIOP is more than just an office space. It’s the Army’s new engine of rapid experimentation – where ideas become prototypes, and prototypes become battlefield overmatch.

“I’m going to continue to push the acquisition process to go faster and faster in order to keep up with current operational tempo,” said Col. Thomas Monaghan Jr., JIOP director. “We have people across multiple offices already surging to get the right outputs for the way forward.”

Organizations, researchers, and technology developers interested in learning more about the JIOP may contact the program office here: dragoninnovations@army.mil.

By XVIII Airborne Public Affairs

Arktis Launches Next-Gen Vulcan Jacket V2 in PenCott GreenZone — Best-in-Class Insulation Meets Elite Camouflage

January 8th, 2026

Arktis, the legendary British tactical gear brand, today announces the release of the Vulcan Jacket V2 in PenCott® GreenZone™, now available worldwide via the Arktis online store and authorized dealers.

Building on the acclaimed Vulcan platform, the Vulcan Jacket V2 delivers enhanced performance for operators and outdoor professionals who demand exceptional warmth, comfort, and concealment in challenging environments. Designed as a lightweight, packable insulating mid-layer, the V2’s refinements are the result of extensive user feedback and field testing.

Advanced Thermal Performance — Zero Bulk
Featuring premium PrimaLoft® Gold insulation, the Vulcan Jacket V2 balances thermal efficiency with breathability even when wet. With 100 gsm of insulation in the body and 60 gsm in the arms, the jacket delivers core warmth without unnecessarybulk. Its streamlined form enables the jacket to pack down into its own pocket — ideal for mobile operations, expeditions, or everyday carry.

User-Driven Design Enhancements
The V2 features newly added mesh-gusseted pit zips for rapid ventilation during high exertion, plus optimized pocket placement for faster access to essentials. Large front pockets offer dual-zip openings and internal compartments sized for mobile devices or comms gear. Concealed adjustment points ensure secure storage without interfering with weapons handling, while an adjustable hood offers complete coverage control.

Water-Resistant and Durable
Constructed with a windproof, water-resistant Nylon MiniRipouter and finished with a DWR coating, the Vulcan Jacket V2 is built to withstand adverse conditions without restricting movement or performance.

PenCott® GreenZone™ — Elite Camouflage Technology
The new Vulcan Jacket V2 is offered in PenCott® GreenZone™, one of the most effective multi-environment camouflage designs available today. Unlike other popular prints, PenCott® patterns use a hybrid 3-in-1 geometry that blends macro, midi, and micro elements to deliver exceptional concealment across close, mid, and long distances.

The omni-directional design orientation also combines depth, natural tones, and shape-disrupting features to confuse visual detection and help the wearer blend into real-world terrains more naturally and effectively than many traditional disruptive patterns — especially in verdant mixed vegetation environments.

Availability & Pricing

The Arktis Vulcan Jacket V2 — PenCott® GreenZone™ is now available for purchase online at the official Arktis store and through authorized dealers.

 

Vortex Introduces the AMG 1-10×24 FFP Riflescope: Engineered to the Standards of Those Who Hold the Line

January 8th, 2026

BARNEVELD, Wis. – Born from the standards of elite military units, the AMG®1-10×24 delivers high-power magnification and optical clarity to compact, short-barreled carbines — leaving rail space for thermal attachments, lasers, offset red dots, and backup irons.

British SAS, Royal Marines, and U.S. SOCOM units set the baseline for zero retention, optical performance, and extended operational durability. Over years of testing, Vortex® engineers pushed the AMG® 1-10×24 against those standards until it exceeded every requirement.

The result is the most advanced optical and mechanical system Vortex® has engineered in an LPVO.

“The project started when the UK Ministry of Defense asked for an optic that didn’t exist and nobody else would make,” says Andy Haffemann, Vortex® Advanced Design Manager. “Over years of iterations, failed prototypes — hundreds of lenses turned to dust through recoil testing — we refined every detail through connections at UK Ministry of Defense and U.S. Special Operations Command until it met their combined expectations.”

FEATURES

CLASS LEADING HD OPTICAL SYSTEM – Stunning resolution and exceptionally wide field of view.

TOOLLESS TURRETS – Fast, tool-free zero with reliable return and micro adjustment.

DUAL ZERO TURRETS – Switch zeros for suppressed, unsuppressed, super or subsonic, light or heavyweight loads.

LIGHTWEIGHT, COMPACT BUILD – Just 8.4″ and 18.8 ounces, fits short-barreled carbines and frees up the rail for attachments.

LOCKING FAST-FOCUS DIOPTER (PATENTED) – Locks tight to keep your reticle sharp.

LOCKING ILLUMINATION DIAL – Aggressively knurled for control. Lock prevents shifts from snags and transport.

INTEGRATED THROW LEVER (PATENTED) – 120° throw for faster transitions, low profile to avoid snags.

MADE IN U.S.A. WITH U.S. AND GLOBAL PARTS – Engineered, machined, and assembled in the USA. Held to micron level tolerances.

Inside, the glass-etched, Illuminated EBR-9 MRAD reticle reflects the same mindset. Designed for tactical and combat shooters, it runs fast up close and precise past 1,000 yards. The grid stays clean for quick corrections, and the ranging marks make distance calls simple: 3, 4, 5, and 6 correspond to hundreds of yards and shoulder-width targets at each range.

AMG® 1-10×24 FFP Riflescope
MAP $3,999.99 | MSRP $6,399.99

Each AMG® riflescope is hand-assembled and inspected in Barneveld, Wisconsin — one at a time — and ships with the new Defender® Flip Cap O-24L, designed specifically for 34mm LPVOs. A small detail, but that’s the point and the discipline that defines the AMG® line: mastery lives in the details. For a detailed list of technical specifications, frequently asked questions, and high-resolution images, check out the Vortex® New Product Portal.

To see more from Vortex®, visit VortexOptics.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X, and TikTok.

SOFWERX – FOSOV: Vehicle Telematics and Sensor Technologies Assessment Event

January 8th, 2026

SOFWERX, in collaboration with USSOCOM SOF Acquisition Technology and Logistics Program Executive Office SOF Warrior (AT&L PEO-SW), will host a series of events to facilitate product development and/or acquire existing commercial vehicle solutions. The Non-Standard Commercial Vehicles (NSCV) program seeks novel solutions to mitigate the freedom of movement risks associated with modern vehicle telematics systems that contain advanced sensors, GPS, communication systems, and unique data signatures.

As vehicles become increasingly connected, equipped with advanced sensors, GPS systems, and communication modules, they generate vast amounts of data and emit unique signatures. These signatures, while essential for functionality, pose risks to privacy, security, and operational integrity. Adversaries can exploit these signatures to track vehicle movements, interfere with operations, or compromise sensitive data. The proliferation of autonomous and electric vehicles amplifies the complexity of managing these signatures through continuous data exchanges and advanced sensor systems.

USSOCOM is calling upon niche solution providers, developers, technologists, cybersecurity experts to help them address these vehicular challenges: Advanced Encryption and Anonymization, Electromagnetic Signature Reduction, Real-Time Monitoring and Response, and Vehicle System Control.

Submit NLT 30 January 2026 11:59 PM ET
U.S. Citizens Only

For full details visit events.sofwerx.org/vehicle-telematics-and-sensor-technologies.

TASKER Network Acquires M4Carbine.net from Sons Of Liberty Gun Works

January 8th, 2026

In order to ensure the security and continuing stability of M4Carbine.net, Sons of Liberty Gunworks (SOLGW) has chosen the TASKER Network to acquire the website and carry forward the forum’s legacy. The move unites two of the firearms community’s oldest and most respected online platforms— M4Carbine.net and Lightfighter.net— under one formidable banner, solidifying the TASKER Network’s role as the central hub for expert-driven discussions on firearms, tactics, training, gear, and all related topics otherwise.

The transfer of assets occurred on November 21st, 2025; since then, the TASKER Network has been implementing much-needed housekeeping updates, including software, security, and server upgrades.

This union cements a multifaceted online destination for armed professionals and citizens alike, while still providing a place among the like-minded that’s free from the inconsistent biases, censorship, and restrictions of mainstream social media.

Founded in 2005, M4Carbine.net has long served as a vital resource for enthusiasts, professionals, and newcomers to the craft. SOLGW, which acquired the forum in 2024 to preserve its neutrality and modernize its interface, recognized the TASKER Network’s track record in fostering high-quality, fact-based discussion as the ideal fit for its next chapter.

“As SOLGW continues to grow, we’ve streamlined our focus around one core mission: Building the world’s finest fighting rifles. With that focus, we believe the TASKER Network team are the right stewards to take over M4Carbine.net and build it for the future. Their experience running technical and professional forums makes them well-suited to give M4C the attention and direction it deserves. We’re looking forward to what they do with it,” says Sean Murphy, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at SOLGW.

SOLGW’s decision to select the TASKER Network underscores a dedication to the firearms industry’s future. “We chose the TASKER Network because of their demonstrated commitment to advancing tactical knowledge without compromise. This transition ensures M4Carbine.net remains a beacon for open dialogue and innovation,” noted Kyle Grothues, Co-Founder of SOLGW.

“This acquisition represents a natural evolution for both M4Carbine.net and the TASKER Network. We are committed in our duty with its proper care,” says Frank Woods, Founder of the TASKER Network.

“When we acquired Lightfighter.net in 2021, we had the same goals in mind for it that SOLGW had for M4Carbine.net. The TASKER Network was built on the principle of establishing, encouraging, and enforcing a standard among those who would step forward, starting with the quality, access, and exchange of information these people will trust with their lives. These values align perfectly with M4Carbine.net’s heritage, focused on training and technical data. We’re honored that SOLGW sees us as a worthy successor.”

The integration of M4Carbine.net will dramatically expand the TASKER Network’s outreach and enhance user experiences through seamless access to aggregated resources, including original content, industry news, technical archives, and commerce options. M4Carbine.net members can expect continued improvements to features and interfaces, while maintaining the forums’ impartiality and focus on experiential, evidence-based input from subject-matter experts. As part of the acquisition, the TASKER Network will retain key personnel from M4Carbine.net, ensuring communal continuity and prioritizing the sanctity of user-generated content that informs life-and-death decisions in the tactical and training worlds.

Expanded partnership opportunities are also welcome; All industrial personnel who have worked with M4Carbine.net & Lightfighter.net in the past or are interested in working with the TASKER Network in the future are encouraged to contact the network in regards. You’re guaranteed to find your target audiences there.

For more information, visit www.taskernetwork.com or www.m4carbine.net, and @taskernetwork on Instagram.

Advertising and partnership inquiries can be directed to sales@taskernetwork.com

Franklin Armory Introduces World’s First Total Round Control Bolt Action in New Prevail Line of Rifles

January 8th, 2026

Minden, Nev. – January 7, 2026 – Franklin Armory®, one of America’s leading manufacturers of innovative firearms and accessories, will unveil the world’s first Total Round Control™ bolt action at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas. Franklin Armory engineered the patent-pending Total Round Control (TRC) system to usher in a new era of bolt action performance as the centerpiece of its Prevail™ line of long-range precision hunting rifles.

Franklin Armory’s TRC action is designed to control each round through the entire feeding-chambering-firing-extraction-ejection cycle so nothing is left to chance. No longer will bolt action aficionados be afflicted by the Push Feed (PF) versus Controlled Round Feed (CRF) dilemma. For the first time, hunters and long-range precision shooters alike can engage critical targets with the best of both worlds, while avoiding the failures of legacy bolt action designs.

“We engineered a truly innovative bolt action feeding system that uniquely combines the most effective design features from push feed and controlled round feed actions,” said Franklin Armory President Jay Jacobson. “Total Round Control and our inaugural Prevail model configurations offer a new paradigm for hunters and precision shooters who desire the best in function and performance.”

Prevail™ Rifle Line

Centered around the technologically advanced TRC action, Franklin Armory’s Prevail offers all of the features expected in a 100 percent American made high-performance hunting rifle and more, including:

  • Franklin Armory’s fully adjustable, Remington Model 700-compatible Conquest™ trigger
  • Choice of Franklin Armory’s Fidelis™ carbon-ceramic wrapped precision barrel or fluted magnum sporter profile stainless steel precision barrel
  • Compatible with Zermatt TL3/SR3 pre-fit barrels
  • User-interchangeable bolt heads with toolless disassembly
  • Premium Model 700-compatible carbon fiber stock with custom V-block bedding
  • Built-in 20 MOA Picatinny scope mount rail
  • Available in .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, .300 WSM short-action calibers
  • Standalone actions available for high-performance custom builders

Firearm industry media and buyers can experience Franklin Armory’s Prevail with Total Round Control first-hand at the SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range on Monday, January 19 (Bay SR-38). Attendees of SHOT Show 2026 can learn more about Prevail with Total Round Control at Franklin Armory’s booth (#20349) January 20-23. Franklin Armory will begin accepting orders at SHOT Show. SKUs and pricing will be announced at the show.