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Now That’s a Hat!

October 29th, 2025

Sergeant Alwyn John Blades (left), Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME), of Montague Bay, Tasmania and Corporal Frank Crazy Thunder (right) of the 173rd United States Airborne Support Battalion and member of the Oglala Lakota tribe, swap hats at Bien Hoa United States Air Base, Vietnam.

Taken September 1965. Corporal Crazy Thunder wears the iconic slouch hat of the Australian Army and Sergeant Blades wears a larger than normal “Ten Gallon” hat Corporal Crazy Thunder had custom made.

RAEME engineers with the 1st Australian Logistics Company in support of the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) were stationed at Bien Hoa from June of 1965 until June of 1966 when they were moved to Vung Tau.

Courtesy of the Australian War Memorial

Accession Number: DNE/65/0371/VN

Photographer: Sergeant Brian Rupert Dunne

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SD Government, a Gogo Company, Receives Federal Contract to Supply Airborne Communications for US Agency

October 28th, 2025

Mil/Gov win to optimize Gogo multi-orbit 5G ATG, LEO, and GEO connectivity networks

Broomfield, CO./ 27 October 2025 – SD Government (SDG), the division of Gogo (NASDAQ: GOGO) providing satellite communications to global governments, has received a five-yearfederal contract to deliver multi-band, multi-orbit airborne global satellite communications to a US government agency. The new agreement, initially valued at USD$3 million, is a follow-on from Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase III activityoriginally undertaken by SDG, prior to the merger with Gogo.

Awarded as a sole-source contract, the agreement will see the agency consolidate all aero communications across its fleet to this single contract over the next five years. With the consolidation of multiple contracts into a single contract, procurement time and complexity are dramatically reduced. In addition, the agreement allows users to focus resources on the mission rather than managing diverse contracts and vendors.

This is the first SDG government contract to optimize the company’s integrated multi-orbit, multi-band, multi-network capabilities. The deal also includes provision for the government to add new technology and services as they become available over the life of the contract.

The agency’s missions demand consistent, reliable high-bandwidth satellite connections in every theatre of operations globally, as well as the highest encryption levels for secure communication and data transfer. SDG’s deep experience in the government and defense markets, combined with its ability to deliver 24/7/365 expert customer support, will ensure the customer retains consistent critical mission connectivity.

As the contract’s full scope is realized, it will employ Gogo’s air-to-ground networks, low-Earth orbit (LEO), medium-Earth orbit (MEO), high-Earth orbit (HEO) and geostationary orbit (GEO)constellations for Ku- and Ka-band connectivity as required.

“We are proud that the US government has chosen SDG to deliver this mission-critical connectivity. The customer agency will benefit from our extensive expertise, support, and cybersecurity expertise, along with our agnostic ability to provide the best-performing connections and terminals across multiple orbits on its diverse fleet of aircraft,” says Hayden Olson, Head of SDG. “We are providing a simple, seamless solution for the agency to procure resilient airborne communications. The streamlined access to all types of connectivity will enable seamless procurement and support, which is extremely valuable to a busy government agency.”

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SDS Arms Expands Tisas PX-9 Comp Family

October 28th, 2025

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – October 27, 2025 – SDS Arms is excited to expand the Tisas PX-9 Comp family with the addition of the Tisas compact PX-9 Carry Comp and the Tisas full-size PX-9 Tactical Comp. Both models complement the PX-9 Duty Comp, sharing its premium upgrades and feature set.

While the Tisas PX-9 Carry Comp and Tisas PX-9 Tactical Comp serve distinct functions, they share the defining features of the PX-9 series. Both models feature a match-grade barrel with a single-port design for quicker follow-up shots, as well as a new aluminum, flat-faced trigger with integrated safety for consistent trigger breaks. With refined controls, updated slide machining and interchangeable grip panels that allow up to 27 grip configurations, these models provide improved ergonomics for a tailored fit and feel. The Tenifer QPQ finish and nickel-coated internal components protect against corrosion and wear, reinforcing its rugged durability.

“We’re thrilled to add to our Tisas PX-9 family and round out the collection with these new additions,” said SDS Arms Vice President of Sales and Marketing Neil Sanders “Whether you are looking for an everyday carry or competition pistol, the Tisas PX-9 Carry Comp and Tactical Comp boast advanced upgrades that make them exceptionally accurate and reliable. We believe these pistols will quickly become favorites for serious shooters who demand precision.”

Designed for everyday carry and self-defense, the PX-9 Carry Comp delivers competition-grade features and performance in a compact offering. With ergonomic controls and various configuration options, it adapts comfortably to any hand size and shooting style. The 9mm offers consistency and reliability with a polymer flared magazine well for quick reloads. Including 15- and 17-round 228-pattern magazines, the PX-9 Carry Comp balances concealability and control.

Built for professional use, competition and advanced shooters, the PX-9 Tactical Comp utilizes the PX-9 series frame with a slightly longer 5.1-inch barrel for enhanced accuracy and muzzle control. This model maintains the popular features of the PX-9 Duty Comp, providing full-size capacity for highly skilled shooters. The PX-9 Tactical Comp boasts an extended aluminum magazine well, take-down lever and magazine catch, and it includes 18- and 20-round 226-pattern magazines.

Product No./ Description/ MSRP

15000306/ Tisas USA PX-9 Carry Comp/ $562.20

10100569/ Tisas USA PX-9 Tactical Comp/ $539.21

To learn more and see all the firearm brands and products available from SDS Arms, please visit the SDS Arms website or find SDS Arms on Instagram or Facebook.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | Comments Off on SDS Arms Expands Tisas PX-9 Comp Family

Highland Engineering – Joint Airlift Micro SCIF (JAMS)

October 28th, 2025

HEI’s Joint Airlift Micro SCIF (JAMS) is a complete paradigm shift away from what users think about a SCIF.

HEI has built a fully accreditable TS/SCI SAP facility in an In an ATTLA certified ISU-90 offering a fly away capability.

It is ATTLA certified for internal air transport. Interfaces with aircraft palletized cargo handling rails and locks – no additional restraint required. JAMS setup in under 10 minutes with 2 personnel. Third party tested and exceeds 100db RF shielding requirement and STC 50 performance (on all 6 sides of cube). With a weight of under 4,400lbs, this is a force multiplier.

Furthermore, there are no expanding sides nor fabric walls like you will find in other “TSCIFS.” The shielded insert is seamless which is why this container exceeds the 100db RF shielding minimum and STC 50 sound rating. This system would not require any ICD-705 waiver.

www.high-eng.com

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High Speed Gear Announces Opening for Sales Manager Position in Swansboro, North Carolina

October 28th, 2025

Swansboro, NC – October 27, 2025 – High Speed Gear® (HSG), a leading U.S. manufacturer of tactical gear and accessories, is seeking an experienced Sales Manager to join its growing team at the company’s headquarters in Swansboro, North Carolina. This is a full-time, on-site position that plays a key role in driving sales growth and supporting HSG’s mission of equipping those who serve with the best American-made gear available.

“This is an incredible opportunity for a motivated sales professional to join a fast-paced, values-driven company where every product we make supports those who protect and serve,” said Dr. Allison Mitchum, VP of Sales & Marketing at High Speed Gear Products Group. “We’re looking for a driven leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, inspires teams to exceed goals, and sees every customer interaction as an opportunity to build lasting relationships. This is an exciting time to join our organization and make a real impact as we continue to expand and strengthen our position in the market.”

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage sales and customer service teams to meet and exceed sales goals.
• Develop and execute strategies to strengthen relationships with distributors, dealers, and end users.
• Support international sales initiatives, product launches, and trade show follow-ups.
• Collaborate with marketing and operations to streamline the sales process and improve customer experience.
• Utilize CRM and ERP systems to track performance and identify growth opportunities.
• Provide coaching, mentorship, and performance feedback to the sales team.
• Ensure all customer interactions reflect the professionalism and mission of High Speed Gear.

Qualifications

• 3-5+ years of experience in sales management, preferably within tactical, defense, outdoor, or sporting goods industries.
• Proven ability to lead a team and achieve measurable sales growth.
• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with CRM systems (Microsoft Dynamics D365, Zoho) and ERP platforms preferred.
• Must be able to work on-site daily in Swansboro, North Carolina.

Interested applicants should submit their resume and cover letter directly to Dr. Allison Mitchum, VP of Sales & Marketing, at allison.mitchum@highspeedgear.com

Posted in Advertiser, TacJobs | Comments Off on High Speed Gear Announces Opening for Sales Manager Position in Swansboro, North Carolina

Objective 500 Fabric – Fabric with Integrated PALS Slots

October 28th, 2025

Over the years industry has worked to integrate PALS slots into fabric using a variety of means. Now, Objective fabric is available, a 500D warp knit fabric using the same Cordura Nylon 6,6, air textured, solution dyed fibers as other fabrics, but with MOLLE standard slots woven into the structure. Since it’s manufactured like other warp knots you have access to full 57 inches of fabric on the roll. The creators tell me the fabric can also be customized with the use of other fibers for speciality applications.

With Objective, you don’t require laminate or laser cutting. It’s also about half the weight of current laminate alternatives with ~90% of the slot strength. It’s also mechanically breathable. Additionally, like other Cordura fabrics, it meets NIR and shading requirements and can be dyed to create patterns.

Strength:

Carabiner Pull Out Strength: Approx. 165 lbs/ 75 kg

Inter-Slot Pull Out Strength: Approx. 70 lbs/ 32 kg

Parallel Pull Out Strength: Approx. 150 lbs/ 68 kg

Learn more at www.objectivefabric.com.

Posted in Materials | 4 Comments »

Gentex Corporation Selected by Czech Ministry of Defence for Integrated Headborne Systems, Reflecting Global Trust in Proven Ops-Core Integrated Ballistic Helmet Solutions

October 28th, 2025

CARBONDALE, PA, October 27, 2025 – Gentex Corporation has been selected by the Czech Ministry of Defence to deliver next-generation Ops-Core integrated ballistic helmet systems and AMP® Communication Headsets to soldiers across the Czech Armed Forces. This order was placed through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) under the NATO Logistics Stock Exchange (NLSE) contract, which is available to all NATO member nations strengthening interoperability across allied forces. The contract valued at over 1 billion CZK is scheduled for completion by October 2026. The official announcement of the selection by the Czech Ministry of Defence can be viewed here, with additional Q&A information here.

“As a global leader of integrated headborne systems, this selection reinforces what all our NATO customers already know, that Ops-Core systems deliver unmatched modularity, reliability, and operational flexibility,” said Tom Short, Senior Vice President of Global Defense at Gentex Corporation. “The Czech Republic is investing in a combat-proven solution with a global pedigree and strong NATO user base. We’re proud to be a trusted part of that modernization effort.”

The contract includes Ops-Core’s lightweight ballistic helmets, engineered for modern tactical operations, paired with a full suite of advanced, interoperable accessories including AMP Communication Headsets with Push-to-Talk capability, ballistic visors, full-face shields, mandible protection, and SOTR respirators with integrated microphones for contaminated environments. Together, they create a fully modular headborne protection system that enhances soldier safety, communication, and mobility in demanding combat conditions and are trusted by elite forces worldwide. This acquisition marks a significant step in the Czech Armed Forces’ modernization efforts, replacing legacy helmets with Ops-Core’s state-of-the-art protective solutions that deliver the next level of mission readiness and battlefield performance.
“Gentex was selected for our proven ability to deliver reliable, mission-ready solutions that meet the highest standards of protection and performance,” said Jim Clarke, EMEA Ground Systems Sales Director, Gentex Corporation. “We offer more than just advanced equipment, we deliver confidence on the battlefield. Our systems are already fielded across multiple NATO forces, ensuring seamless interoperability, simplified training, and streamlined sustainment.”

The purchased helmets and accessories are designated for brigade task forces within the 4th Rapid Deployment Brigade and the 7th Mechanized Brigade, as well as for personnel across the ground forces, support elements (including cyber and information forces, air forces, and medical units), special operations forces, the Military Police, and the Cyber and Information Operations Command. Their considerable variability ensures that each set can be adapted to the specific needs of the individual user, enhancing operational effectiveness across diverse mission profiles.

Program Highlights

• Customer: Czech Ministry of Defence (via NSPA competitive procurement).
• Products and Integrated Accessories: Ops-Core ballistic helmet systems in two color variants, AMP headsets, AMP PTTs and radio cables; Step-In® Visors; SOTR respirators; ballistic mandible protection; and additional compatible mission accessories.
• Operational Flexibility: Scalable from routine ground operations to contaminated/CBRN environments (compatible with protective masks and oxygen equipment).
• Delivery Timeline: Program completion targeted by October 2026.
• Procurement Transparency: Managed through NATO’s NSPA, which aggregates allied demand, runs international competitions, negotiates pricing, and addresses intellectual property considerations on behalf of member nations.

Fielding to the Czech Armed Forces will occur under the schedule coordinated by NSPA and the Czech Ministry of Defence. Gentex Corporation will support fit, training, sustainment, and lifecycle needs as defined in the program agreement. Organizations interested in similar integrated headborne solutions should contact Gentex Corporation.

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, Helmets, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Gentex Corporation Selected by Czech Ministry of Defence for Integrated Headborne Systems, Reflecting Global Trust in Proven Ops-Core Integrated Ballistic Helmet Solutions

Varusteleka – L4 Winter Combat Shirt, Pant & Field Jacket

October 28th, 2025

Varusteleka has introduced the Level 4 Winter Combat Shirt, Pant, and Field Jacket featuring Finnish M05 Snow Camo, as part of their clothing system which is and designed to be used according to layered clothing principles.

Made in the EU, each garment is available in Small through 2X-Large sizes.

Winter Combat Shirt

Features:

Warmer combat shirt with handy winter features
Sleeves insulated with Climashield Apex

Breathable torso made from Cordura-blend knit fabric
Stretch side pockets for electronics or such, with buttonhole openings inside for cable routing
Protective turtleneck collar with zipper and drawcord
Protective fabric behind the zipper – prevents the collar from gaping open
Raglan sleeves with articulated elbow reinforcements/pockets for pad inserts
Zippered sleeve pockets with internal attachment loop
Hook-and-loop panels on the upper sleeve pockets for patches
Small zippered wrist pockets with internal attachment loop
Hook-and-loop adjustments at the cuffs
Sleeves insulated with Climashield Apex 67g/m2

Winter Combat Pants

Features:

Moderately high waist, slightly higher at the back
Zipper fly with button closure
Strong, non-rustling fabric
Adjustable elastic waistband, easy to remove/replace
Diamond gusset in the crotch
Articulated knees with pleats
Hook-and-loop tightening and zipper at the cuffs
Knee reinforcements with pad pockets

Two side pockets with zipper closure
Two thigh pockets with flap (button/hook-and-loop closure)
Two small calf pockets with hook-and-loop flap

Winter Field Jacket

Features:

Handy sleeve pockets and a helmet-compatible hood
Strong, non-rustling fabric
Crotch strap between the legs
Made in the EU
Generous fit to allow necessary mid-layers underneath
Zipper closure with wind flap and external storm flap
Two-way pit zips for ventilation
Helmet-compatible hood with drawcord adjustments for height and depth
Elastic, adjustable drawcord at the hem
Crotch strap with snap closure, can be stowed neatly inside the jacket
Hook-and-loop cuff adjustments
Reinforced elbows with pad pockets (we recommend CPE inserts)
Hook-and-loop fields for name, rank, and sleeve patches
Five pockets:
Two zippered chest pockets with mesh lining, one with an internal hook-and-loop pocket
Two sleeve pockets with button and/or hook-and-loop closure, familiar from our Recon Smock

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing | 1 Comment »