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Delivering Tomorrow’s Small Caliber Ammunition Lethality Today

April 25th, 2026

PICATINNY ARSENAL, NJ – The U.S. Army’s Capability Program Executive Ammunition and Energetics (CPE A&E), headquartered at Picatinny Arsenal, NJ, is spearheading a major transformation of the nation’s small?caliber ammunition industrial base, advancing one of the Army’s highest modernization priorities. Central to this effort is the delivery of next?generation 6.8mm cartridges that will equip soldiers with increased range, accuracy, and battlefield lethality as part of the Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) program.

The NGSW program, featuring the M7 Rifle, XM8 Carbine, and M250 Automatic Rifle, represents the Army’s most significant small?arms upgrade in decades, replacing the M4 Carbine and M249 Squad Automatic Weapon. These new weapons, enabled by advanced 6.8mm cartridges, are designed to provide decisive overmatch in operating environments.

To accelerate production and strengthen readiness, Project Manager Maneuver Ammunition Systems (PM MAS), in partnership with Project Lead Joint Services (PL JS), has established an interim 6.8mm manufacturing capability at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant (LCAAP) utilizing a mix of new and repurposed equipment. As of March 2026, operating contractor Olin Winchester is producing and delivering 6.8mm ammunition from this capability. The Army is also supplying projectiles from this interim line to SIG Sauer to support additional cartridge deliveries while LCAAP expansion continues.

CPE A&E is executing a long-term modernization strategy to ensure the Army’s ammunition needs are met well into the future. A key milestone was the February 2025 groundbreaking for a new 450,000?square?foot 6.8mm production facility at LCAAP. This state-of-the-art complex will house advanced manufacturing systems for every component of the 6.8mm cartridge and serves as a cornerstone of the Army’s organic industrial base modernization. Construction remains on schedule, with production equipment installation anticipated to begin in 2028.

“CPE A&E is leading the development, procurement, and fielding of cutting-edge ammunition and energetics ensuring the Army and its international partners maintain a significant technological advantage,” said Col. Jason Bohannon, Capability Program Executive Ammunition and Energetics. “The work being executed is foundational to advancing the Army’s modernization goals and ensuring combat readiness across the force.”

By Laura Emanski and Robert Goetz

Posted in Acquisition, Army, Guest Post | 1 Comment »

Rheinmetall Kraken GmbH Launches Series Production of Maritime Unmanned Systems in Hamburg

April 24th, 2026

Series production of the Kraken K3 Scout has begun at Rheinmetall’s Blohm+Voss site in Hamburg. With the market-ready unmanned surface vessel (USV), Rheinmetall’s new Naval Systems division—together with its British joint venture partner Kraken Technology Group—offers a surface platform for both military and civilian applications. Depending on the configuration, the vessels can be used for maritime surveillance, protection of critical infrastructure, or as weapons carriers in military operations.

The joint venture established last year between Rheinmetall Naval Systems and the British tech company Kraken Technology Group will now operate under the name “Rheinmetall Kraken GmbH.” The partnership addresses the growing global demand for market-available unmanned platforms of various sizes.

Production of the systems—which are capable of speeds of up to 55 knots, measure 8.4 metres in length, and are individually configurable—takes place at Rheinmetall’s shipyard Blohm+Voss in Hamburg, a site that the Düsseldorf-based company is developing into Germany’s leading test and technology centre for unmanned and autonomous marine systems.

“Production of the Kraken K3 Scout is initially designed for around 200 units per year. Depending on the order volume, we can scale up production to as many as 1,000 units annually,” says Tim Wagner, CEO of Rheinmetall’s Naval Systems division. With five locations in Germany, the Naval Systems division specialises in the construction of complex naval and coast guard vessels and is a pioneer in the development of unmanned and autonomous surface systems.

Mal Crease, CEO of Kraken Technology Group said: “The formation of Rheinmetall Kraken GmbH combines the scale, expertise and reach of a longstanding defence leader with an agile, innovative maritime technology company. This will ensure that production of Kraken’s K3 Scout can scale to meet exponentially growing operational requirements.”

Kraken Technology Group develops high-performance and cost-efficient unmanned maritime systems. Through the joint venture, they benefit from the extensive production and integration capabilities of the Rheinmetall Naval Systems division.

Posted in International, Maritime, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Rheinmetall Kraken GmbH Launches Series Production of Maritime Unmanned Systems in Hamburg

Athlon Optics Introduces the Ares HLR Riflescope

April 24th, 2026

Lenexa, KS (April, 2026) – Athlon Optics introduces the Ares HLR, a lightweight, precision-built riflescope designed for hunters who cover ground, hunt long hours, and demand repeatable performance when the moment matters most. Built around a rugged one-piece 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum tube and weighing as little as 18.9 ounces, the Ares HLR delivers high-end optical performance without adding unnecessary weight to your rifle.

Purpose-built for Western spot-and-stalk hunters, backcountry adventurers, and anyone prioritizing mobility without sacrificing capability, the Ares HLR brings together ultra-premium fully multi-coated glass, an illuminated reticle, and exposed precision turrets for confident adjustments in the field. Whether dialing for distance on a high-country mule deer or making a fast correction on a coyote crossing an open field, the Ares HLR is engineered to perform under real hunting conditions.

The Ares HLR features a refined exposed turret system designed for positive, tactile adjustments and reliable return to zero, giving hunters confidence when making elevation corrections at extended ranges. Combined with exceptional light transmission and edge-to-edge clarity, the optic maintains visibility and detail from first light through the final minutes of legal shooting time.

Despite its advanced feature set, the Ares HLR remains impressively lightweight. The 2.5-15×42 model weighs just 18.9 ounces, making it an ideal choice for ounce-counting hunters and long treks into the backcountry. The 4-24×50 model comes in at approximately 21 ounces, offering additional magnification for longer-range applications while still maintaining a highly portable profile.

Available Models:
The Ares HLR is offered in six models across two configurations. The 2.5-15×42 is available in three reticle options: AHMC1 Fiber Dot SFP IR MOA, APLR-H2 SFP IR MOA, and APRS-H2 SFP IR MIL, each priced at $962.49. The 4-24×50 is also available in AHMC1 Fiber Dot SFP IR MOA, APLR-H2 SFP IR MOA, and APRS-H2 SFP IR MIL configurations, each priced at $1,062.49. All models feature a 30mm tube, illuminated reticles, and exposed turrets for precise dialing.

All Ares HLR models are available now through authorized Athlon Optics dealers. For more information, visit athlonoptics.com.

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Ondas Completes Merger of U.S. Defense Prime Contractor Mistral, Brings Programs in Excess of $1 Billion and Expands Direct Prime Participation Across U.S. Department of War Programs

April 24th, 2026

Establishes Direct Access to U.S. Army and Special Operations IDIQ Contract Vehicles and Expands Domestic Manufacturing and Integration Capabilities
Transaction Strengthens Ondas’ Position as a Next-Generation Defense Prime, Accelerating Deployment of Autonomous Systems Across U.S. Defense and Homeland Security Markets
Adds Approximately $264 million to Ondas’ Backlog; Ondas Pro Forma Backlog, Adjusted for the Mistral and World View Acquisitions, was $457 Million as of March 31, 2026

WEST PALM BEACH, FL / April 24, 2026 / Ondas Inc. (Nasdaq:ONDS) (“Ondas” or the “Company”), a leading provider of autonomous aerial and ground-based intelligence systems through its Ondas Autonomous Systems (OAS) business unit and private wireless solutions through Ondas Networks, today announced it has completed its merger of MistralInc. (“Mistral”), a U.S.-based defense prime contractor with decades of experience supporting U.S. military, federal, and public safety programs.

The merger, valued at $175 million, provides the Company with direct prime contractor access to U.S. Army and Special Operations contract vehicles, while adding U.S.-based manufacturing, integration, and federal contracting infrastructure. The transaction marks a significant step in Ondas’ strategy to expand direct participation in large-scale U.S. government programs.

Mistral brings established relationships across U.S. defense and homeland security agencies, as well as a proven track record delivering mission-critical technologies into operational environments. Mistral will support and expand its existing programs, customers and partner relationships while forming a dedicated program capture arm for Ondas in the U.S., establishing a focused capability to deliver, support, and scale the deployment of Ondas’ integrated systems across defense and homeland security customers. The combination accelerates Ondas’ ability to deploy integrated autonomous systems, including aerial platforms, counter-UAS technologies, and ground robotics, directly into U.S. defense programs.

“This merger marks a significant step in positioning Ondas as a fully integrated defense prime contractor, accelerating our expansion across the U.S. defense market,” said Eric Brock, Chairman and CEO of Ondas. “Mistral brings established access to key contract vehicles, a U.S.-based manufacturing and integration footprint, and deep customer relationships across UAVs, loitering munitions, and ground robotics-directly aligned with the core segments of our platform. Together, we are strengthening our ability to deliver mission-ready systems to U.S. government customers at scale.”

“Mistral has already captured programs exceeding $1 billion in value and is expected to be a meaningful contributor to revenue growth and EBITDA leverage as we scale our U.S. operations,” Brock added.

With Mistral’s position as a prime contractor on established U.S. Army IDIQ programs and its role supporting advanced soldier and tactical systems initiatives, Ondas is now structurally positioned to pursue larger program awards and accelerate technology integration to program-of-record deployment. The addition of U.S.-based production and contract execution capabilities also strengthens Ondas’ ability to meet procurement requirements tied to domestic manufacturing, supply chain security, and long-term sustainment.

As of March 31, 2026, Ondas estimates its backlog with orders in hand was $177 million, an increase from $68 million at December 31, 2025. Mistral had $264 million in contracted backlog as of April 21, 2026 and World View Enterprises (“World View”), which was acquired on April 1, 2026, had contracted backlog of $16 million at closing. Ondas’ pro forma backlog as of March 31, 2026, was $457 million, adjusted for the addition of Mistral and World View.

For additional information regarding the merger, please see the Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission later today. In connection with the merger, the Company approved inducement grants of restricted stock units (RSUs) representing 1,245,263 shares of the Company’s common stock to a total of 58 employees newly-hired in connection with the merger. The equity awards were granted pursuant to the Nasdaq Rule 5635(c)(4) inducement grant exception as a component of each individual’s employment compensation and were granted as an inducement material to his or her acceptance of employment with the Company. The RSUs will vest in twelve (12) equal quarterly installments through the third anniversary of the closing date, subject to the applicable employee’s continued employment with the Company.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Ondas Completes Merger of U.S. Defense Prime Contractor Mistral, Brings Programs in Excess of $1 Billion and Expands Direct Prime Participation Across U.S. Department of War Programs

Streamlight Launches Portable Scene Light III With 10,000-Lumen Output and a Modular Design

April 24th, 2026

New Waterproof Lighting System Introduced at FDIC International

EAGLEVILLE, PA, April 23, 2026 – Streamlight®, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting, has launched the Portable Scene Light III (PSL III), a high-output, waterproof lighting system delivering up to 10,000 lumens for fire, emergency response, military, industrial, and outdoor applications. The new system debuted at FDIC International in Indianapolis, IN.

The PSL III delivers powerful, adaptable performance featuring 12 LEDs with wide-pattern reflectors, providing uniform scene illumination and three output levels to match the task. On High, it provides 10,000 lumens and 121,000 candela for maximum scene illumination with a 2-hour run time. Medium offers 5,000 lumens and 61,000 candela for balanced output and extended 4-hour operation, while Low delivers 2,500 lumens and 38,000 candela with up to 8 hours of run time for longer-duration use.

Designed for flexibility in the field, the PSL III features a 5-in-1 modular design that can be used with or without the included tripod. The system is equipped with swappable lithium-ion batteries, along with AC and DC power options for extended operation. A quick-mount system and a single-button tripod release enables fast setup. The 360° rotating, 180° pivoting light head allows for precise positioning exactly where illumination is needed. Even when mounted on the tripod, the light remains fully rotatable, offering added flexibility to adjust the angle without repositioning on the base. An available wireless remote provides full control from up to 75 feet away and can be paired with multiple lights for synchronized operation.

A key enhancement to Streamlight’s Portable Scene Light family is the PSL III’s tripod system, which is engineered for enhanced stability, storage, and field versatility. The tripod extends up to 92 inches and features reversible feet, including spiked ends for secure placement on uneven or soft terrain and flat feet for hard surfaces. The tripod is wind-resistant up to 40 mph. Integrated battery management includes two cradles to keep backup power readily accessible. The lightweight design and built-in carry handle support easy transport and rapid deployment.

“Whether on the fireground, emergency scenes or complex worksites, reliable lighting is critical for safety, visibility, and operational efficiency,” said Michael F. Dineen, Streamlight President. “The Portable Scene Light III delivers high-lumen output, rapid deployment, and flexible power options to support crews in dynamic, low-light environments.”

The PSL III is IPX7-rated (waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes) with the battery installed and IPX4-rated without the battery installed. It features glove-friendly controls and a rugged, impact-resistant thermoplastic housing intended for indoor or outdoor use.

The light head measures 7.5 inches long, 7 inches wide, and 9 inches high and weighs 7.5 lbs. with included battery. The tripod collapses to 37.7 inches for transport and extends up to 92 inches with spiked feet or 88 inches with flat feet. It weighs 13.3 lbs and comes equipped with an integrated carry handle for easy transportation. The total weight of the light and tripod when mounted is 23.5 lbs.

The Portable Scene Light III system has an MSRP of $1,759 and the Portable Scene Light III – Light only has an MSRP of $1,014. Both are backed by Streamlight’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.

For more information, visit www.streamlight.com.

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Ferro Concepts – DANGLER AR

April 24th, 2026

purpose-built to carry two AR-15 style magazines horizontally, the new DANGLER AR from Ferro Concepts is manufactured from hydrophobic X-Pac fabric.

The internal divider secures items but can be opened to create a full-length pass through for linear charges and other longer items. Multiple shock cord routing points let you customize retention for different sized items. A 2″ hook and loop interface mounts to both front and rear of plate carriers, back panels, or belts. Engineered with just the right rigidity to stay put and reduce bounce. Perfect for AR-15 magazines, Skin packs, breaching charges, multi tools, or anything else you can fit.

Features:

Modular design that can be reconfigured as dual AR-15 magazine carrier or full-length pass through for longer items

• Made with hydrophobic X-Pac® fabric

• Includes removable shock cord and two shock cord locks for retention

• Features a moveable internal divider to prevent magazine movement; the divider can be tucked away to create a full-length pass through

• 2″ hook and loop Velcro for attaching to front or rear of carrier, back panels, or belts

• Can accommodate 2x – AR-15 magazines, 2x – Skin Packs, Breaching Charges, Breaching Multi-tool, and other items

• Berry Compliant

ferroconcepts.com/products/dangler-ar

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying | 1 Comment »

B.E. Meyers & Co. Names Coulson Aviation USA First Reseller Specific to Aerial Firefighting and Wildfire Management

April 24th, 2026

Aerial firefighting is one of the most demanding and precise operations in emergency response.

When wildfires outrun crews on the ground, aircraft become the front line – fighting with calculated accuracy to slow the spread of the threat and protect lives, homes and critical infrastructure in its path.

Cooling temperatures, reduced wind and rising humidity at night make for the ideal environment to turn the tables on a raging fire.

B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc., a Defense Technology Manufacturer specializing in advanced photonic solutions for military, law enforcement, consumer and aerospace applications worldwide, is proud to announce Coulson Aviation USA as their first reseller specific to Aerial Firefighting and Wildfire Management. Currently promoting B.E. Meyers & Co.’s IZLID200P series of laser systems for air-to-ground integration in support of communication during aerial wildfire management operations under night vision devices, Coulson Aviation is the first aerial firefighting company to aggressively develop innovative, industry-changing nighttime fire suppression technology and protocols for successful and safe after dark operations.

The B.E. Meyers & Co. IZLID® 200P is a compact, lightweight IR laser for pointing and marking by military forces. Ideal as a command pointer, for target marking and for communication with aircraft, a simple adjustment turns the laser into an IR illuminator for rapid identification with night vision goggles (NVGs) or IR sensors.

Coulson Aviation pioneered nighttime aerial firefighting, leveraging advanced technologies, like the IZLID® 200P, to combat wildfires when conditions are most favorable.

The B.E. Meyers & Co. IZLID® 200P is small enough to fit in the user’s pocket for quick access when needed. It’s powerful enough to call in airstrikes or aim weapons over a range of 39 km. The small size, light weight, but powerful aiming beam combined with the six-degree field of view IR illuminator capability, is routinely used on aircraft-mounted weapons and by pilots to point out or illuminate ground targets from the cockpit.

To properly battle a blaze under the favorable conditions of nighttime darkness, Coulson Aviation crews work in constant communication with ground teams, acting as force multipliers in rapidly changing conditions. Aerial firefighting isn’t just about fighting flames from the sky – it’s about buying time, creating opportunity and standing between disaster and the communities in its path.

Currently Coulson Aviation supports Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura County fire departments with very large helitankers, pilots and support crews as a part of the company’s ongoing partnership with Southern California Edison (SCE) and the Quick Reaction Force (QRF) program. The Coulson QRF is a 24/7/365 aerial task force changing how fires are fought from the air via a combination of speed, power and technology.

Since the release of the IZLID® 200P, B.E. Meyers & Co. has set the standard for high powered Near-Infrared laser pointers and illuminators. The IZLID® series is used in TACP, CCT, JTAC, SOTAC, ANGLICO and JFO applications and for other air-to-ground integration and communication needs. It’s now a widely used product by military, first responders and search and rescue agencies around the world – chosen for its high power, ergonomics and ruggedness.

This strategic partnership between B.E. Meyers & Co., and Coulson Aviation is the next evolution of high-powered, nocturnal aerial firefighter communication and situational awareness. B.E. Meyers & Co.’s revolutionary technologies create a substantial battlefield advantage to help aerial firefighters ensure mission success and bring them home safely.

For more information on the IZLID® 200P and other B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc products, visit bemeyers.com.

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FirstSpear Friday Focus: TUBES Fasteners

April 24th, 2026

FirstSpear’s TUBES FASTENERS replace outdated hook-and-loop closures and bulky cummerbunds with a system that actually works when it matters. Traditional setups were noisy, soaked up water, held onto mud like a souvenir, and usually demanded two hands—none of which are ideal when things go sideways. TUBES FASTENERS fix that with a patented, mechanical interface that locks in solid and releases with one hand, no fumbling required. Whether you’re treating a casualty, climbing, or keeping a weapon up, that extra hand matters.

Built from high-strength polymer, the system holds its shape under load and doesn’t quit in wet or dirty environments. It won’t clog, lose grip, or wear out like legacy closures, and built-in ports help shed debris so it keeps working without babysitting. The design also makes it easy to integrate or retrofit across different platforms without a full rebuild.

It’s lighter, quieter, and faster to operate—three things nobody complains about. There’s no ripping Velcro giving away your position, and no wrestling your kit just to get in or out of it. In short, it does what your gear should’ve been doing all along. Tubes Fasteners cut the noise, drop the weight, and keep you moving.

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, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post, Materials | Comments Off on FirstSpear Friday Focus: TUBES Fasteners