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Colt CZ Group SE Announces the Launch of Colt Electro Optics, LLC

January 12th, 2026

For over 185 years, Colt has defined reliability, precision, and battlefield-proven performance. Now, that legacy advances into a new frontier. For the first time in history, Colt Optics is combining that heritage of craftsmanship with cutting-edge optical technology. Built for the professionals who stand on the front line, our optics areengineered to answer a growing demand for mission-ready clarity and uncompromising performance. Every optic reflects the same standard that built the Colt name—durability, precision, and reliability. Colt Optics will create precision sighting and targeting products built to meet the real-world demands of professional users.

”We have assembled a talented team of industry professionals that are honored to be a part of the exceptional legacy of the Colt and CZ brands. We are hard at work preparing to release a series of products in the coming months that are defined by the rigorous performance and quality standards we’ve set for ourselves“ said Matt Van Haaren, President of Colt Optics.

Dennis Finnegan, COO of Colt Optics, commented, ”We are proudly headquartered in Michigan, an epicenter of precision, weapon-based electro-optics engineering and manufacturing in the United States. We’ve brought a great group of professionals together with years of experience in developing products for our industry that we’re confident will compliment and grow with the ever evolving needs of the modern warfighter and all firearms users, alike.“

Visit www.coltoptics.com for more information.

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Leader Transforms SMDC for the Future

January 12th, 2026

REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. – Lt. Gen. Sean A Gainey, commanding general of U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command, is focused on transforming USASMDC into a warfighting headquarters as he closes out his second year in command.

One factor driving that transformation is the addition of the 263rd and 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Commands to USASMDC.

“We have gone through a significant change inside of the command, we now have two of the Army’s air and missile defense commands within SMDC,” Gainey said. “Defending the homeland has been a priority, and now the Army is putting additional resources into this command. We have a bright future as we transition into a warfighting headquarters.”

Gainey, who is dual-hatted and also serves as the commander of the Joint Functional Component Command for Integrated Missile Defense, expects changes within JFFC IMD, too. He said details are evolving on how team members will provide operational expertise to those organizations planning for homeland defense.

“JFFC IMD will transform to play a greater role in supporting air and missile defense protection of the homeland,” he said.

As USASMDC continues to evolve, Gainey said the integration of space, missile defense, and high-altitude capabilities to enable multi-domain operations will be crucial in addressing the complex challenges of the future battlefield.

“If you look at any conflict in a contested environment, the need to conduct over-the-horizon communication and provide command and control is critical,” he said.

The SMDC Technical Center’s and Space and Missile Defense Center of Excellence’s focus on pushing capability to warfighting formations quickly puts SMDC at the forefront of continuous transformation, Gainey said.

“We’ll continue to do the work we’re doing with U.S. Army Special Operations Command to validate high altitude platforms,” he said. “We’ll also continue to develop and refine our Tactical Integrated Ground Suite and some of our smaller form factor capabilities pushing those systems to the tactical edge of our warfighting formations.” When looking to deliver combat ready air and missile defense and space operations forces, Gainey, as the Army’s senior air defender and space operations proponent emphasized the importance of having trained and ready forces capable of global commitment.

“As you look at any conflict out there, space capabilities are a high priority,” he added. “In the current and future fight, the reliance on space is significant.”

Gainey’s focus on space operations included the development of the 40D space operations military occupational specialty which is expected to have its first enlisted members in October 2026.

“Now is the right time to have an Army space operations MOS and in the future a space branch inside the Army,” Gainey said. “The 40D MOS is going to give us more capacity to be able to leverage our space capabilities at the close tactical edge.”

Gainey said his role as the Army’s air and missile defense enterprise integrator takes on additional significance with the command’s expanded role as Army Service Component Command role to U.S. Northern Command for air and missile defense of the homeland.

While the Army is currently meeting AMD demand, Gainey said it’s coming at a cost to the AMD Soldiers. He said he’s focusing on finding ways to optimize the ability to globally provide trained and ready forces and ensure that AMD forces are adequately prepared to respond to emerging threats.

“The ability for the Army to be able to generate formations to support the COCOMs has driven our deploy-to-dwell rate to an all-time low,” he said. “We’re looking at other ways to provide forces to our combatant commands.” Spearheading this historic change to USASMDC is a team of professionals working together to meet the goals Gainey has set.

Gainey said it’s an exciting time to be part of the command.

“The efforts of our Soldiers and civilians strengthen the profession and embed the warrior ethos throughout SMDC,” he said, “We are starting to realize what this command was always intended to be, a warfighting headquarters that provides the Army and Joint Force with ready combat forces to deter aggression, defend the homeland against aerial threats, develop and deliver integrated space, missile defense and high-altitude capabilities, and dominate the land domain in conflict.”

Story by Jason Cutshaw

US Army Space and Missile Defense Command

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ISI Selected to Build the National Backbone for Israel’s Space Ecosystem

January 11th, 2026

New national space R&D lab to enable inorbit demonstrations of startup and academic payloads on ISI satellites

January 06,2026, Israel, ImageSat International (TASE: ISI), a global leader in space-based intelligence solutions, announces that the Access to Space consortium, in which ISI is a member, has been selected by the Israel Space Agency at the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and the Israel Innovation Authority to establish and operate Israel’s national R&D space laboratory for the accelerated development of space technologies.

The consortium, led by Israeli space company Creation Space and joined by leading national academic institutions, including the Technion (Israel Institute of Technology) and Ben-Gurion University, will receive approximately 16million USD in governmental participation, including around 10.5 million USD in grants, for the establishment and operation of the laboratory.

The laboratory will enable Israeli start-ups and academic institutions to conduct technological demonstrations in space, including the launch of dedicated experimental payloads on board satellites that will be supplied, integrated, launched and operated by ISI. In addition, the laboratory will provide test infrastructures, as well as professional and engineering services and regulatory support, to make advanced space experimentation accessible to a broad range of Israeli developers.

“We are proud to be a significant part of the consortium selected to enable Israel’s space capabilities to grow and to further develop Israeli technological leadership in space,” said Noam Segal, CEO of ImageSat International. “With extensive experience in delivering end-to-end satellite solutions- from design and development to integration, launch, and mission operations , ISI is uniquely positioned to provide the professional infrastructure required for such a national space laboratory, enabling Israel and additional nations to remain at the forefront of space technology.”

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release, Space | Comments Off on ISI Selected to Build the National Backbone for Israel’s Space Ecosystem

Enforce Tac 2027: Leading Fair Gains Strategic Depth as it Continues to Grow

January 11th, 2026

International interest in Germany’s leading trade fair for internal and external security has reached a new all-time high.

Enforce Tac unveils the next chapter in its strategic development. This year (23-25 February 2026), the display area for Germany’s leading trade fair for internal and external security is set to increase to more than 60,000 m2 across seven exhibition halls. Then in 2027 (2-4 March), it will cover an area of as much as 73,000 m² in eight halls. For a better overview of the entire exhibition grounds, a new hall cluster will also be established with a structure tailored to reflect the security and technological requirements of the coming years. Another new feature as of 2027 will be the Tuesday to Friday schedule, which caters to the needs of official agencies and security operatives to an even greater extent.

Under the guiding principle of an interconnected, resilient, and forward-looking security architecture, Enforce Tac has evolved to become Europe’s leading platform, bringing together innovations, strategic collaborations, and technological advances. “Enforce Tac is far more than just a trade fair. It is a testing ground for the future, where we work together to make Europe’s security more resilient and more responsible,” stresses event director Jasmin Rutka, adding: “Thanks to the extra display areas, modified schedule, and clearly structured hall clusters, we are creating the conditions for growth and further development, starting at the precise location where security, technology, and strategic partnerships intersect.”

Hall architecture in 2027: eight halls dedicated to Europe’s key security-related technologies

Enforce Tac has grown continually in recent years, enlarging its exhibition space step by step. The significant increase of around 22,000 m² in 2023 was followed by yet another expansion to more than 47,000 m² in 2025. With more than 60,000 m² in 2026, and a further enlargement to around 73,000 m² in 2027, the trade fair is systematically pursuing this development strategy. The new size gives exhibitors additional options, such as the ability to showcase even large-scale equipment directly at their stands, while visitors have even more space to get to know the innovations on the market.

The Enforce Tac display area will be distributed across eight halls for the first time in 2027 based on a new and improved hall cluster concept. The targeted thematic arrangement results in integrated spaces focused on specific topics that offer exhibitors and visitors a clear orientation and foster dialogue between areas that are related technologically. By doing this, Enforce Tac is sending out a clear message about the technological depth and strategic alignment it is pursuing.

The modified structure will enable Enforce Tac to cover the entire spectrum of security-related technologies and applications in the future – including ground- and air-supported systems, maritime solutions, equipment, interconnected operational concepts, space platforms, and unmanned systems. In doing so, the trade fair is laying the foundations for a European security architecture that embraces stronger links between military, governmental and industrial capabilities. “Enforce Tac 2027 provides a clear focus on Europe’s security policy challenges,” explains Jasmin Rutka. “Through the new structure, we are creating transparency, defining specific focus areas, and strengthening the dialogue between users, industry, the research community, and policymakers.”

Improved weekday schedule as of 2027: Tuesday to Thursday

At the suggestion of numerous official agencies, security operatives and military delegations, Enforce Tac will switch to a Tuesday to Friday schedule starting in 2027, when it will take place from 2 to 4 March. This new weekday schedule is intended to make it much easier for many agencies and international institutions to travel to the event and allows for more efficient planning of trade fair visits. At the same time, it will create improved conditions for users, exhibitors and organised delegations and in this way boost the overall quality of dialogue at the venue.

Vision 2027: a European platform with responsibility

Enforce Tac underlines Germany’s commitment to take on responsibility in the context of the European security dialogue. It provides an exclusive setting that facilitates confidential discussions, technological advances, and strategic coordination. The leading fair for internal and external security thus provides a framework for a future in which resilience and innovative strength are crucial prerequisites for peace and stability.

Please note: This event is restricted to members of the armed forces and official security and law enforcement agencies and organisations.

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Nellis AFB to Gain Electronic Warfare Squadron

January 11th, 2026

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

The Department of the Air Force has selected Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, as the preferred and final location for the 562nd Electronic Warfare Squadron.

The 562nd EWS, assigned to the 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing, will be co-located with the United States Air Force Warfare Center to streamline electromagnetic spectrum operations.

The mission of the 350th SWW is to deliver adaptive and cutting-edge electronic spectrum capabilities that provide the warfighter a tactical and strategic competitive advantage and freedom to attack, maneuver, and defend.

The activation of the 562nd EWS will allow the USAFWC to deliver advanced, realistic training that incorporates electronic warfare concepts, tactics, and techniques, ensuring warfighters are better equipped to operate in contested electronic environments.

The environmental analysis was completed in summer 2025. The service plans for initial operational capability by summer 2026 and full operational capability by summer 2028.

Nevada will gain 59 active-duty authorizations.

Via Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

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DroneShield Renews Support for ADF Drone Racing Team for 2026

January 10th, 2026

7 January 2026 – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-drone technology, today announced its continued support of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Drone Racing Team for 2026.

Building on a strong partnership showcased at Avalon 2025 and in previous years, DroneShield’s involvement with the ADF Drone Racing Team extends beyond traditional sponsorship. The?collaboration has focused on sharing expertise and fostering innovation in drone operations, including initiatives such as DroneShield pilots engaging with ADF Drone Racing activities to promote skills development and knowledge exchange.

Oleg Vornik, Chief Executive of DroneShield said, “The ADF Drone Racing Team continues to set the benchmark for advanced drone operations, and we’re proud to support their journey in?2026. This collaboration is about more than racing. It’s about building the skills and technologies that will define the next generation of Defence capability.”

Wing Commander Keirin Joyce, President of the ADF Drone Racing Team said, “Our partnership with DroneShield helps drive innovation across Defence. By combining the expertise of pilots from the ADF drone racing team with cutting-edge counter-drone technology, we create a unique environment for testing, learning, and advancing Australia’s operational edge.”

Image: ADF Drone Racing Team with DroneShield team

DroneShield’s continued support underscores its commitment to advancing Australian Defence initiatives that drive innovation and technical excellence. In March 2026, the ADF Drone Racing Team will defend its world title for a sixth time at the Military International Drone Racing Tournament in Sydney, further highlighting Australia’s leadership in drone technology and operational capability.

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Pylon Syndicate MX

January 10th, 2026

The Pylon Syndicate MXP is a next-generation +5 base pad extension for Gen3 PMAG magazines — The unit installs without tools and features a patent-pending spring-locked detent push-pin system, making it one of the most user-friendly magazine extensions on the market. Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the United States, it adds capacity (5 rounds on PMAG 10/20/30; 6 rounds on PMAG 40) while maintaining lightweight, rugged performance. The MXP has a CNC aluminum housing and QP nitride 4140 PH steel pin held in place with existing AR-15lower kit parts.

• Made in the USA: Fully designed, engineered, and manufactured in the United States (even our card stock and clam packs are made in USA).

• Scalable product line: With further Pylon-tech offerings (including 7.62 PMAG and Glock versions just around the bend), this product line is positioned to change the magazine extension standard industry-wide.

Our Manufacturing Advantage

We offer a vertically integrated suite of manufacturing capabilities that can take on any level of domestic production in the small arms space. FFL/SOT, ISO, AS9100:D | ISO9001:2015. If you make things that like to fly or go to space we can do that too.

• Full Design & Drafting Services: Our engineering team stands ready to support custom design, prototyping, and iterative development — from concept to first articles.

• Robust OEM Network: We maintain a domestic OEM ecosystem with access to multi-axis CNC machining resources, including 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC stations, precision fabrication partners, and finishing houses (DLC, Ano, Cerakote).

• Rapid Turnaround + Scalability: Leveraging vertical integration and premier partner capabilities, we can support accelerated delivery schedules without compromising quality or compliance. If you’ve got prints, we can move fast.

pylonsyndicate.com

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Ocufii Official Safety Technology Sponsor at Industry Day at the Range 2026

January 10th, 2026

BOULDER CITY, Nev. – January 7, 2026 – SHOT Show® Industry Day at the Range, the highly anticipated hands-on event held annually the day before SHOT Show, is excited to announce Ocufii as the official Safety Technology Sponsor of the 2026 event, taking place January 19, 2026, at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada.

Ocufii recently launched its powerful set of free personal safety features inside its mobile app. TagMe™ Assist is a dedicated safety module designed to turn smartphones into essential protection and safety tools for everyday life, unexpected situations, and emergencies. These one-tap alerts include automatic 911 and 988 dialers, among others. The full app and TagMe Assist features are available for free on the App Store and Google Play. More information is available now at ocufii.com.

Ocufii also debuted Ocufii Core for organizations at a launch event in December 2025 and will showcase it at Industry Day at the Range by way of actual use. Ocufii core allows administrators to seamlessly manage TagMe Assist, TagMe Alert and TagMe Secure devices on one platform. The Industry Day at the Range staff will implement this as part of the pre-event, at-event and post-event process. And select exhibitors will also be using TagMe Alert FlexiTag Beacons and TagMe Secure connected locks.

This will entail more than 20 individuals using the Ocufii App and/or TapAssist Mobile Wearable Card to allow show management a comprehensive, real-time view of their entire staff and support team. TagMe Alert and TagMe Secure products will paint the picture of the safety ecosystem. Features will include an alert console, location sharing and mapping for situation awareness and tools that empower the organization to protect their people, attendees and assets efficiently.

“We’re thrilled to have Ocufii on board as the Safety Technology Sponsor,” said Kelsey Puryear, Industry Day at the Range co-owner. “Its cutting-edge solutions bring an added layer of safety and efficiency to our operations, allowing our staff to focus on delivering an exceptional experience for our exhibitors and attendees. We also see fantastic benefits in our daily lives as parents, spouses, fellow industry organizations and colleagues can use Ocufii technology and products in a variety of ways centered around safety and security.”

Each Industry Day at the Range attendee will also be able to download the Ocufii App and use TagMe Assist right away. With a streamlined setup, users can activate TagMe™ Assist and start protecting themselves right away. Optional upgrades unlock advanced features, including multiple recipients, enhanced alert types and expanded monitoring capabilities—making Ocufii a flexible safety solution for every lifestyle.

Firearm owners will be especially interested in its TagMe Secure line which provides security and prevents unauthorized access to firearms. Connected trigger, cable and slide locks offer secure, non-location-based movement notifications. This means firearm owners can add a layer of technology to industry-standard equipment such as on-firearm locks, as well as safes, drawers, cases and more.

“We built TagMe Assist to be simple, powerful and accessible,” said William Sandoval, CEO and Founder of Ocufii. “Safety should never be a luxury. Whether you’re a parent, a traveler, a lone worker or a first responder—this app is for you. For firearm owners, TagMe Secure integrates seamlessly into our Ocufii App for a comprehensive platform they can trust. We can’t wait to attend Industry Day at the Range and are ecstatic that Kelsey and the ownership group will use our platform and devices to enhance their long-standing and prestigious event.”

How the TagMe Assist App Works

One-Tap Alerts: Send safety alerts and share locations with a trusted contact—instantly, with a single tap

Real-Time Location Sharing: Location updates every 60 seconds during active alerts help recipients track user movement and respond faster

Customizable Alert Types Include:

Emergency
Feeling Unsafe
Active Shooter,
Automatic 911 dialer
Automatic 988 dialer

Recipient Management: Easily choose who gets notified. Upgrades let users add more contacts, assign roles, and tailor alerts to each situation

Device Integration: Works seamlessly with iOS and Android smartphones, so users can stay protected without extra hardware or setup

Industry Day at the Range offers a unique opportunity for exhibitors to showcase new products, engage with top media and influencers, and connect directly with SHOT Show attendees in a hands-on setting. By partnering with Ocufii, the event is further solidifying its reputation as a leader in innovation and safety in the shooting sports industry.

The sponsorship by Ocufii highlights a personal safety product that can also scale and provide a professional and business solution that ensures safety and operational efficiency in large-scale events. Ocufii’s TagMe™ system brings added credibility to Industry Day at the Range, reinforcing its commitment to safety and professionalism.

Supported by the National Shooting Sports Foundation as title sponsor through 2028, Industry Day at the Range remains the only official range event associated with the SHOT Show. Exhibitor space is limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged.

For more information about the 2026 SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range visit ShotShowRangeDay.com.

Posted in Industry, Press Release, SHOT Show | Comments Off on Ocufii Official Safety Technology Sponsor at Industry Day at the Range 2026