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SylvanSport Unveils GO. Rapid Response: The All-In-One Lightweight Tactical Hauler, Trailer and Shelter Engineered for First Responders, Military and Disaster Relief

October 17th, 2025

Brevard, NC – [October 16, 2025] – In the wake of mounting disastrous events from hurricanes, fires, earthquakes, and floods and growing demand for fast-deploying field equipment, SylvanSport today announced the launch of its GO. Rapid Response tactical trailer — a next-generation of lightweight, tow-anywhere tactical hauler, trailer and shelter designed for first responders, emergency managers, defense units, and humanitarian organizations.

The debut comes one-year after Hurricane Helene devastated communities surrounding SylvanSport’s headquarters in Western North Carolina, and underscored the need for adaptable, fast-deploying equipment. When access routes failed, and power and communication grids collapsed, response teams needed versatile, self-contained systems that could move quickly and sustain operations independently.

“Living through Helene, we saw first-hand how response organizations from local fire stations all the way up to the National Guard were constrained by bulky, slow-to-deploy equipment” said Tom Dempsey, founder and CEO of SylvanSport.

GO. Rapid Response bridges that gap — it’s compact, agile, and purpose-built for missions that demand speed and flexibility. “We saw how devastating a natural disaster can be for a community and the need for equipment that can aid first responders getting into hard to reach places, Dempsey added.”

Hundreds of mission-critical applications. One VERY unique solution.

GO. Rapid Response is the incredibly versatile, go-anywhere, carry-anything tactical trailer from SylvanSport. Lightweight and towable by any vehicle in your fleet, GO. Rapid Response easily transforms from transporter to hauler to shelter — all in one self-contained unit. From dense urban centers to remote, off-grid terrain, GO. Rapid Response is ready.

“We worked with local North Carolina search and rescue teams to find out what they needed when it came to equipment when disaster strikes and started doing our own research to bring this product to life,” said Kyle Mundt, VP Product Development, SyvanSport. “It’s a very adaptable product and we’re looking forward to future technology advances to make Go. Rapid Response the tactical trailer to fit even more multifaceted needs.”

Built from high-strength aluminum with an off-road suspension and low center of gravity, it’s compact enough for tight maneuvers yet rugged enough for rough conditions. In minutes, it converts from a cargo hauler to a mobile shelter, command unit, or triage station — a multi-role platform built to move, deploy, and sustain operations anywhere.

The newest dealer to join SylvanSport in their mission to bring Go. Rapid Response to search and rescue teams is Hendrickson Fire Rescue in Islandia, NY.

“Partnering with GO. Rapid Response is a natural fit for Hendrickson Fire Rescue Equipment,” said Craig Probst, President. “Our team is dedicated to supporting fire and rescue teams with reliable, ready-to-deploy solutions, and the GO Rapid Response enhances that mission by giving departments greater flexibility and readiness when it matters most.”

The company is currently exploring additional dealers in the U.S. and Canada.

Mission-Ready Features

Ultra-Lightweight Design:
Only ~1,200 lbs dry weight; towable by SUVs, EVs, tactical, or municipal vehicles.

High Payload Capacity:
Up to 2,150 lbs GVWR (2,300 lbs with suspension upgrade).

Rapid Deployment:
Transforms from transport to shelter mode in minutes.

Rugged Construction:
All-aluminum frame, steel wheels, all-terrain tires, and roto-molded components.

Command-Ready Interior:
Configurable 10.5? × 7? × 6?5? space for cots, gear racks, or comms equipment.

Power & Lighting Options:
Integrated LED scene/work lighting, solar power, 12 V and 120 V outputs.

Custom Agency Fit:
MOLLE mounts, rack systems, slide-out drawers, branding and graphics available.

Available under GSA Contract # GS-35F-698GA, partnered with Tomahawk Information Solutions, GO Rapid Response simplifies procurement for federal, state, and local agencies.

Part of a Proven Family of Adventure and Utility Products

SylvanSport’s evolution into tactical and emergency mobility builds upon its award-winning outdoor engineering. Each model complements GO Rapid Response to serve distinct roles across both mission and lifestyle use:

GO EASY™ Utility Trailer:
A compact hauler for gear, ATVs, or emergency supplies.

TraiLOFT™ Micro Camper:
Lightweight and aerodynamic, combining gear transport with sleeping space for field teams.

LOFT™ Rooftop Tent:
A hard-shell, weather-proof shelter that sets up in seconds on any vehicle.

VAST™ Adventure Trailer:
A spacious off-grid command and housing solution for extended deployments.

Together, these models embody SylvanSport’s mission to combine mobility, sustainability, and resilience — from backcountry recreation to front-line response.

Built for Response. Ready for Anything.

From wildfire evacuations and hurricane recovery to defense training and homeland security support, GO Rapid Response delivers hundreds of mission-critical applications in one adaptable platform. It bridges the gap between large, slow-to-deploy vehicles and makeshift field solutions, giving teams a lightweight, American-made tool for the modern response environment.

“Preparedness starts with mobility,” Dempsey added. “Our trailers are designed to go where other equipment can’t. That’s why we built GO. Rapid Response — to empower the people who run toward the crisis, not away from it.”

Availability & Demonstrations

SylvanSport will exhibit the GO. Rapid Response line at upcoming Defense Tech Connect, Fire-Rescue International, and IAEM Emergency Management Expos throughout 2025. Demonstrations and procurement consultations are available upon request.

About SylvanSport

Founded in Brevard, North Carolina, SylvanSportdesigns and manufactures award-winning adventure trailers, campers, and outdoor systems recognized for their lightweight engineering and durable design. Since 2004, the company has redefined how people move through the world — from everyday explorers to emergency responders.

For more information or to request a demonstration, visit

www.sylvansport.com/rapid-response

Posted in Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on SylvanSport Unveils GO. Rapid Response: The All-In-One Lightweight Tactical Hauler, Trailer and Shelter Engineered for First Responders, Military and Disaster Relief

FirstSpear Friday Focus: Tubes Bald Eagle T-Shirt

October 17th, 2025

The FirstSpear TUBES BALD EAGLE T-SHIRT brings purpose-built comfort and everyday performance in a clean, no-nonsense design. Constructed from a durable 60/40 cotton-poly blend, this shirt hits the sweet spot between lightweight breathability and long-term wearability. It’s built for hard use—whether you’re putting in work on the range, training, or off the clock.

A bold Bald Eagle graphic dominates the back, gripping a FirstSpear 4″ Tube™ in its talons—a nod to strength, precision, and the innovation that drives every piece of FirstSpear gear.

The front keeps it low-profile with the classic Spear Tip logo, representing capability without compromise. Designed with the same mindset behind our load-bearing systems and armor platforms, this tee blends comfort, mobility, and mission-ready durability. The athletic fit won’t slow you down and the soft hand feel keeps it comfortable through long days in the field or downtime at home.

The FirstSpear Tubes Bald Eagle Tee stands for the same values that define the brand—innovation, American craftsmanship, and relentless performance. From the first layer you pull on to the last light of the day, it’s built to move with you, hold up under pressure, and represent the standard.

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.

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Army, DIU Select Anduril to Advance Next-Generation Counter-UAS Fire Control Capabilities

October 17th, 2025

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The U.S. Army’s Program Executive Office Missiles and Space, in coordination with Defense Innovation Unit, successfully completed the C-UAS fire control solution competition, selecting Anduril as the winner.

This result represents a critical step in identifying and integrating the most effective fire control solutions to counter the rapidly evolving threat of unmanned aircraft systems. “This competition allowed us to rigorously evaluate innovative technologies in a realistic operational environment, ensuring our Soldiers have the tools they need to maintain air superiority,” said Lt. Col. Adam Samiof, Product Manager, PdM C-UAS.

The Army will continue working closely with Anduril to refine and integrate this cutting-edge technology into its C-UAS architecture, ensuring the highest level of protection for our warfighters.

By Darrell Ames

Posted in Army, C-UAS, Contracts, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

Kopin Secures $3.2M in New Program Orders to DELIVER MicroLED Displays for Combat Aircraft HUD Upgrade

October 16th, 2025

WESTBOROUGH, Mass. – Kopin Corporation (NASDAQ: KOPN) a leading provider of application-specific optical systems and high-performance microdisplays for defense, training, enterprise, industrial, consumer and medical products, announced it has secured approximately $3 million in orders from a tier one aerospace company for MicroLED displays, marking the first production order for this technology in combat aircraft, a new technology offering and a burgeoning market, for Kopin.

Scheduled for delivery in the second half of 2026, the displays will upgrade legacy Heads-Up Displays (HUDs) in fielded aircraft, providing pilots with high-resolution imagery projected onto a screen directly in their line of sight, enhancing situational awareness, safety and mission effectiveness.

Kopin’s MicroLED display is fully flight-qualified and offers both unparalleled brightness for high-glare daylight missions, and ultra-low dimming for nighttime missions. With up to 1 million foot lambert (fL) brightness-100 times brighter than organic light emitting diode (OLED) displays-the MicroLED display ensures superior performance in the brightest daylight/sunlight conditions. With a dimming range, exceeding 30,000:1, the display ensures seamless adaptability from bright daylight to low-light night missions. The advanced backplane architectureensures exceptional image uniformity and eliminates motion artifacts providing smooth, high-fidelity visuals for the pilot when it matters most.

The Kopin MicroLED’s extreme brightness and true black offer superior see-thru performance for HUDs and augmented reality systems, even in the most extreme conditions.

Kopin’s MicroLED also sets a new standard for energy-conscious performance, with up to five times greater power efficiency compared to competing microdisplay technologies. Each display offers 4-megapixel resolution and supports 120 frames per second, delivering ultra-sharp, real-time imagery for mission-critical applications.

“This order reflects the growing demand for advanced display solutions in aerospace applications and validates the readiness of our MicroLED technology for field deployment,” said Bill Maffucci, Senior Vice President of Business Development and Strategy at Kopin. “MicroLED represents a transformative leap in display performance, offering unmatched brightness, durability, and image clarity-capabilities that are essential for today’s high-performance aircraft. We’re proud to support our customers in modernizing the fielded aircraft, replacing legacy systems with cutting-edge HUD technology that enhances pilot situational awareness and safety, and mission effectiveness. This milestone underscores Kopin’s leadership in developing and delivering field-ready, military-grade MicroLED displays.”

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Kopin Secures $3.2M in New Program Orders to DELIVER MicroLED Displays for Combat Aircraft HUD Upgrade

Streamlight Appoints Antonio Sánchez González as International Regional Sales Manager for Europe

October 16th, 2025

González to Drive Strategic Growth Across European Law Enforcement, Military, and Sporting Goods Markets

EAGLEVILLE, PA, October 15, 2025 – Streamlight®, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, is pleased to welcome Antonio Sánchez González asInternational Regional Sales Manager, Europe – Law Enforcement, Military, and Sporting Goods (LE/MIL/SG). Based in Madrid, Spain, Sánchez will report to Streamlight’s Director of International Business Development, Donato Sasso, and focus on Streamlight’s efforts to strengthen sales, distribution strategies, and customer relationships across Europe in the targeted markets.

A multilingual professional fluent in Spanish and English and proficient in German, Sánchez has a proven track record in sales and business development within tactical communications, personal protective equipment, and safety solutions. He most recently served as Sales Expert & Key Account Manager at 3M PELTOR, where he supported Military, Law Enforcement, Hunting & Shooting, and Industrial customers in Spain and Portugal. His professional background also includes roles at 3M in respiratory protection, confined space and rescue solutions, and fall protection, technical sales roles at Hoffmann Group, and process engineering at John Deere.

“Antonio’s technical expertise and market insight make him an ideal leader for our European LE/MIL/SG strategy,” said Michael F. Dineen, Streamlight President. “His experience in aligning customer needs with technical solutions directly supports our mission of delivering best-in-class lighting tools to professionals across diverse industries. We’re excited to see the impact he’ll make in this important region.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Antonio to the Streamlight team,” said Sasso. “His deep understanding of the LE/MIL/SG sectors, combined with his technical sales background and multilingual capabilities, makes him uniquely suited to accelerate our growth across Europe.”

Antonio holds a degree in Industrial Engineering from Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, studied Mechanical Engineering at Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences (formerly Fachhochschule Frankfurt am Main), and completed the Strategic Sales Management Program at Esade Business School. He is also an International Practical Shooting Confederation competitive shooter and a member of the Precision Pistol Shooting Division under the Royal Spanish Olympic Shooting Federation.

For more information, visit www.streamlight.com.

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FN Ceasing Civilian Production of SCAR

October 16th, 2025

Earlier today FN America released this statement on social media in response to online rumors regarding the future of the SOF Combat Assault Rifle, developed in 2007 in response to a USSOCOM requirement. Production for commercial sales for all models except the 15P have ceased.

Contract production will continue and there are ample magazines available for current customers but barrels and other accessories will be limited.

Posted in weapons | 8 Comments »

AUSA 25 – SURF from SAFRAN DSI

October 16th, 2025

Over the years Safran’s Pocket Laser Rangefinder (PLRF) line has become the standard light rangefinder for snipers, JTACs, and Forward Observers.

In order to continue providing the best capabilities to their customers they have introduced the Small Ultralight Range Finder (SURF) which was developed by Safran DSI in the USA and is an ITAR product.

SURF is 20% smaller and lighter than PLRF25C and is distinguished by its vertical orientation and ergonomics. In addition, it uses the Safran Vectronix 3019 rangefinder for increased performance out to 8000 meters. Simple to use, SURF can connect to multiple Bluetooth devices such as Kestral and ATAK.

SURF is fully qualified, in full-rate production, and available for order with deliver this year.

Posted in Advertiser, AUSA, Optics | Comments Off on AUSA 25 – SURF from SAFRAN DSI

AUSA 25 – GORE-TEX Introduces Improved Army Wet Weather Boot by McRae Footwear

October 16th, 2025

GORE-TEX brand displayed their candidate for an Improved Army Temperate Wet Weather Boot.

This boot is commercially available from McRae Footwear and is a GORE-TEX lined variant of their popular modern jungle boot called the Terrassault (T2) Ultra Light Hot Weather Combat Boot. The addition of the GORE-TEX lining makes them suitable for temperate climates where Soldiers often face cold wet conditions such as in Central Europe and across the much of North America.

The boot is 40% lighter, 25% more breathable, and not to mention more flexible, than the Temperate Combat Boot which was removed from the clothing bag. Currently, Soldiers receive two pairs of Hot Weather Boots. One of these could be swapped out for the Improved Army Temperate Wet Weather Boot to offer Soldiers better foot protection in wet environments.

Wear testers said it was more comfortable and lighter than the temperate combat boot as well as offering an athletic fit.

Below is a chart that compares the current Army Temperate Weather Boot with this proposed replacement and the Army Hot Weather Boot.

Posted in Advertiser, AUSA, Boots | 1 Comment »