XC3 Weaponlight

Space Delta 7 Activates 77th Surveillance Squadron, Ushering in New Era of Space-Based Target Tracking

August 8th, 2026

GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. —  

On July 31, 2026, the U.S. Space Force’s Space Delta 7 officially activated the 77th Surveillance Squadron (77 SURS), marking a critical advancement in the Department of War’s ability to track global threats from space, the ultimate high ground.

Serving as the tip of the spear for the Space-based Moving Target Indication (SB-MTI) mission, 77 SURS will manage and deliver intelligence essential to the joint warfighter across every DoW service branch and combatant command. This activation serves as a cornerstone of the USSF Objective Force 2040 vision, which emphasizes moving toward distributed, hybrid space architectures to achieve persistent vigilance in contested domains.

“The activation of the 77th Surveillance Squadron is a watershed moment for joint warfighting,” said Col. Nathaniel Peace, Space Delta 7 commander. “We are establishing an unblinking, persistent eye in space that directly feeds critical tracking data to our forces on the ground, in the air, and at sea. This capability immediately enhances our global combatant commands, giving them the vital battlespace awareness needed to make decisions at speed and hold any adversary at risk.”

Powered by the Space-Based Sensing and Targeting (SBST) program, SB-MTI will utilize a constellation of hundreds of reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition satellites to provide continuous, real-time surveillance of ground, air, and maritime threats worldwide. This global space vantage point unlocks persistent terrestrial battlespace awareness in denied or contested environments where traditional sensors cannot reach. It equips the joint warfighter with unmatched operational flexibility and serves as a critical pillar of modern national defense.

The 77 SURS is uniquely postured as an “employed-in-place” squadron with a global mission. Currently operating out of a temporary location at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota—pending formal basing approval—the squadron provides continuous target tracking and battle management from its home station under the High-Capacity F2T2EA program. Crucially, the unit also maintains the capability to deploy personnel forward to directly augment combatant commands during a crisis.

To expedite this cradle-to-grave kill chain process, the squadron is cultivating a highly specialized culture. The 77 SURS integrates a 50/50 mix of intelligence and space operations personnel into multi-domain crews that operate as a single, coherent unit of action. Pending FY27 budget approvals, the squadron is slated to grow to 45 billets in 2027 and 61 billets in 2028.

“We are building a completely new type of warfighting team,” Peace noted regarding the unit’s construct. “By placing our space operators side-by-side with our intelligence analysts, we are tearing down traditional silos. This operational fusion is exactly what allows us to move from simply seeing a target to providing actionable data to the Joint Force at the speed of modern conflict.”

By John E. Ayre, USSF Combat Forces Command public affairs

Posted in Forces Focus, Guest Post, Space | Comments Off on Space Delta 7 Activates 77th Surveillance Squadron, Ushering in New Era of Space-Based Target Tracking

Gilat Demonstrates Breakthrough AI-Based Interference Detection and Cancellation Technology for Satellite Links

August 7th, 2026

Patent-pending AI technology delivers up to 10x improvement in interference detection and cancellation performance ensuring resilient satellite communications in highly contested spectrum environments

Petah Tikva, Israel, August 6, 2026 – Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions, and services, today announced the successful demonstration of a breakthrough AI-based interference detection and cancellation technology for satellite communication links.

The patent-pending solution leverages advanced AI-based signal processing designed to run on standard AI for edge NPU and has demonstrated exceptional performance across a wide range of non-cooperative and non-static interference scenarios.

The preliminary demonstration results showed up to a 10x improvement in interference detection and cancellation performance compared to conventional interference mitigation techniques, enabling the detection and cancellation of challenging interference conditions while maintaining compatibility with modern satellite communication systems. The results further demonstrated that the signal of interest remained virtually unaffected after interference cancellation, with only negligible degradation in signal quality.

As satellite communications face increasingly complex interference and jamming threats, the technology offers a powerful new approach to maintaining reliable connectivity and service continuity in highly contested spectrum environments.

“This achievement demonstrates Gilat’s technological leadership in enabling service continuity under severe interference and jamming scenarios, helping ensure robust and resilient satellite communications in highly contested spectrum environments,” said Aharon Mullokandov, Chief R&D Officer at Gilat. “In an environment where spectrum is becoming a crucial resource for both defense and commercial applications, this technology opens new opportunities that were not possible before. Building on this success, Gilat plans to demonstrate the technology on dedicated AI accelerator hardware, paving the way for a low-power edge solution suitable for deployment in operational satellite communication terminals.”

The successful demonstration represents another milestone in Gilat’s ongoing innovation in advanced satellite communications technologies and reinforces the Company’s commitment to developing solutions that address the evolving challenges faced by satellite network operators, government agencies, and defense organizations worldwide.

Posted in AI / ML, Comms, International, Press Release | No Comments »

OTB Boots Launches the Reengineered T-KOOL 2.0, Expanding Its Lineup of Tactical Footwear

August 7th, 2026

The updated design delivers enhanced durability, comfort, and performance while maintaining the low-profile appearance that has made the T-KOOL a favorite among elite military operators and law enforcement officers.

BOSTON, Aug. 7, 2026 — OTB Boots today announced the launch of the T-KOOL 2.0, a redesigned version of its low-profile tactical boot that combines skate shoe-inspired style, athletic comfort, and mission-ready performance. The new model introduces meaningful upgrades while preserving the understated styling that allows it to transition seamlessly between operational environments and everyday wear.

The T-KOOL 2.0 was engineered for users who need technical footwear without the appearance of a traditional tactical boot. While its casual silhouette blends naturally into urban settings, every component was designed to perform under demanding conditions.

The 2.0 version features an all-new outsole with a reinforced fast-rope guard that improves abrasion resistance during repeated roping operations. Additionally, the outsole features reverse herringbone lugs that provide traction across varied terrain while maintaining flexibility for dynamic movement and a full-length stability plate enhances support when carrying heavy loads or navigating uneven surfaces. More than one inch of premium Future Foam EVA cushioning delivers lasting comfort throughout extended periods of wear.

Additional features include a waterproof suede upper, climbing rubber toe and heel protection, and a lightweight construction that supports a wide range of training, operational, and everyday applications.

“The T-KOOL has always occupied a unique place in our lineup because it challenges what people expect from tactical footwear,” said Dan Ellis, Founder of OTB Boots. “With the T-KOOL 2.0, we focused on improving the performance where it matters most. The result is a boot that offers greater durability, cushioning, and increased capability while staying true to the low-profile design.”

The introduction of the T-KOOL 2.0 continues OTB Boots’ commitment to developing footwear for military personnel, law enforcement officers, first responders, and outdoor professionals who demand technical performance without unnecessary weight or bulk. The launch follows a series of product introductions that have expanded the company’s portfolio across tactical, maritime, and specialized operational footwear.

The T-KOOL 2.0 is available immediately in a Mid height configuration in brown and black suede through the OTB Boots online store. 

Posted in Advertiser, Boots, Press Release | No Comments »

See the Radical CS5 MOD1 Compact Suppressor at Next Week’s Marine Gunner Association Industry Day

August 7th, 2026

The CS5 MOD1 is a next-generation, compact suppressor engineered for peak performance with minimal footprint. Designed with a focus on low backpressure, it reduces the load on the operator while providing superior signature reduction.

Improvements to CS5 Mod 1 are based on years of customer feedback from the previous generation of CS5. While overall performance of CS5 was favorable, the team concentrated on factors like weight, secondary retention, and kinematics enhancements.

CS5 Mod 1’s streamlined profile improves muzzle balance and handling without compromising weapon kinematics, all while featuring a rugged quick-disconnect system for rapid deployment. The CS5 Mod 1 introduces Radical Defense’s new TLR² Mounting Interface: Taper-Lock Ratcheting Retention keeps OAL short and maintains sub-MOA POI shift repeatability. Recessed engagement teeth on the redesigned Flash Hider Mount, the KFMR prevents premature wear and impact damage.

Featuring a rear biased Center of Gravity (CG), the CS5 Mod 1 improves muzzle balance, aiding control and reducing muzzle flip. Its forward-venting design significantly reduces back pressure reducing bolt speed, increasing reliability, and reducing the amount of toxic blowback introduced to the operator. Additionally, CS5 Mod 1 optimizes flash and sound suppression with integrated Blast Over Pressure (BOP) mitigation with a dB rating of 138.74dB at the Shooter’s Ear was recorded on an 11.5-inch 5.56 Carbine.

The full CS5 Mod 1 ecosystem includes the 5.56 carbine suppressor, a Blank Safety Device (BSD) capable of catching three live rounds of M855A1, and a Sim Training Suppressor.

CS5 Mod 1 will be on display next week at the USMC Marine Gunner Association Industry Day in King George, VA.

For more information, visit rdusa.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Suppressors | No Comments »

B.E. Meyers & Co. Invited to Present at APFIT Event on Capitol Hill

August 7th, 2026

AUGUST 6, 2026 (Redmond, WA) – B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc.™ was invited to present the successful results of its APFIT award (Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies) to APFIT program stakeholders in Congress and the Department of War at the Cannon House Office Building on July 21, 2026. Funding from APFIT was used to accelerate production of the Squad Aiming Laser – Ultra High Power (SAL-UHP), a multi-function, multi-platform aiming laser. This support enabled significant increases in manufacturing throughput and contributed to the successful adoption of the SAL?UHP by United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).

Established in fiscal year 2022, APFIT provides procurement funding for innovative projects that have completed development and are ready to transition into operational use. The B.E. Meyers & Co.™ SAL-UHP is a variant of the DAGIR®?V1, which was tested, validated, and ultimately adopted by USSOCOM as the LA-30, thanks in part to APFIT support. B.E. Meyers & Co.™ and the SAL-UHP were ideal fits for the APFIT program, which is specifically designed to help small businesses and non-traditional defense contractors bridge the “valley of death” between completion of development and large-scale production.

At the APFIT event, Senior Business Development Manager and U.S. Army veteran Chris Austin, along with CEO Matthew Meyers, showcased the SAL-UHP and highlighted the program’s success. Meyers, representing the second generation of family ownership, was joined by third?generation member Jack Meyers, who assisted with the presentation.

The DAGIR® series represents a major advancement in multi-function aiming and illumination technology. It combines a Near-Infrared illuminator with both NIR and visible aiming lasers in a compact, ruggedized system. Engineered with advanced optical design, the DAGIR® series delivers exceptional illumination quality, intuitive ergonomics, and a refined form factor. USSOCOM previously selected the DAGIR®?V1 under the SAL-UHP program, designating it the LA-30 (NSN 5855-01-724-3043). The DAGIR®-V2, which includes an additional visual laser override button, has also been adopted by USSOCOM under the Miniature Aiming Laser – Ultra High Power (MAL-UHP) contract.

The DAGIR®’s advanced capabilities align closely with the U.S. Department of War’s efforts to maintain and expand U.S. warfighter advantages in night-fighting technology. As a veteran/operated company, B.E. Meyers & Co. is proud to support the enhancement of warfighter night-fighting capability and remains committed to delivering the highest-quality advanced photonics systems for those who serve.

Third generation Meyers family member Jack Meyers with House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman, Representative Ken Calvert (R-CA)

CEO and second-generation Meyers family member Matthew Meyers briefing Rep Ken Calbert (R-CA)

U.S. Army Veterans Matthew Meyers and Senior Business Development Manager, Chris Austin

Who We Are:

B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc.™ is a Defense Technology Manufacturer located in Redmond, Washington. As a privately held, Veteran-operated, second-generation US Small Business in our 52nd year, we are a global leader in tactical laser systems for combat applications, as well as optoelectronic systems for rotary wing aircraft, fixed wing platforms, and UAVs, along with other integrated systems. We are a true “Made in America” operation, with design, development, production, and final assembly occurring in our Redmond, Washington headquarters.  We are proud of our work and who we serve as we evolve critical defense technology and reenergize American Manufacturing.

Who We Support:

Our customers include all branches of US Department of War, US Federal and State Law Enforcement agencies, select US consumer channel partners, international allies in over 50+ countries, as well as defense primes both in the US and internationally.  Our key product brands in these spaces include VSLAP®, IZLID®, GLARE®, MAWL®, DAGIR®, BOARS®, MILR®, KIJI®, and others.

Made in America:

B.E. Meyers & Co.™ operates in multiple market segments as a defense-centric Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) at our core. Our business and our products are:

§     US based

§     US owned

§     Certified SBA Small Business

§     ITAR compliant

§     ISO 9001:2015

§     Made in America

§     Buy American Act compliant

§     Berry Amendment compliant

Strategic Sourcing:
With respect to strategic sourcing amid the U.S.-China trade war, B.E. Meyers & Co.™ is dedicated to an, “Anywhere But China” supply chain policy wherever possible, and especially for key components.

We continually promote efforts to diversify our supply chain, and we also invest in ensuring critical components are stocked to avoid disruptions.

Product Lines:
The DAGIR® series is currently under contract with various US DoW and other entities.
Please see Chuck Pressburg of Presscheck Consulting’s overview of the DAGIR® series here, as well as Steele Industries overview here.

For sales information on the DAGIR®, and other innovative laser solutions from B.E. Meyers & Co., please visit bemeyers.com or connect with us at info@bemeyers.com.

“DAGIR”, “IZLID”, “MAWL”, “MILR”, “KIJI”, “GLARE”, “DIAL”, and “BOARS” are federally registered trademarks of B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc.

Posted in Advertiser, Congress, Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

US Air Force Supplemental Inspection of M18 Modular Handguns Found Zero Evidence of Conditions Which Would Allow “Uncommanded Discharge”

August 7th, 2026

Last July Amn Brayden Lovan was tragically killed in a shooting which occurred in the Weapons Storage Area of FE Warren AFB, Wyoming. It is alleged he was shot by another member of his squadron, Amn Marcus White-Allen who was charged with involuntary manslaughter as well as making a false official statement. That Airman was later found dead in his dorm room when his command failed to hold him in pre-trial confinement.

But that’s not the story most people heard for many months after the shooting. The Air Force failed to address the death in a timely fashion which gave opportunity for false accounts of the shooting to infest the internet. Even after lies about the M18 MHS “going off on its own” the Air Force allowed the issue to fester while Air Force Global Strike Command Commanding General Gen Thomas Bussiere removed the weapon from service so that the command’s inventory could be inspected for defects, despite knowing almost immediately that the assailant had lied about his role in the death.

While General Bussiere (who is now retired) remained on leave and failed to address the issue, a paranoid firestorm led to calls to remove MHS from service across the entire Department of War (as well as other agencies at all levels of government) based on unfounded rumors that were circulating the internet. Although the pistols were returned to service with AFGSC by late August, the command did not fully set the record straight as to how AMN Lovat died for over three months.

Eventually, the Air Force directed a complete “Supplemental Inspection” of the service’s entire inventory of MHS. This was “to ensure Airmen/Guardians with an arming requirement, whether at home station or deployed, have a weapon which is safe, reliable, and functional if the moment of need may arise.” The Supplemental Inspection Criteria went above and beyond the requirements of the Technical Order at the time and have since been incorporated into the TO.

Despite consisting of nearly 126,000 pistols, the AF inspection was completed last year and the report was signed on 23 January, 2026 by Brig Gen Brian Filler, Director of Security Forces.

Unfortunately, it has taken over six months for us to obtain a redacted version of the Final Report. At only three pages it is succinct and to the point.

The executive summary tells the story:

“100% of the inspected weapons exhibited no signs of any condition that could have allowed the weapons to experience an “uncommanded discharge.”

Rather than just telling you what is in it, we are sharing the report for you to read every detail yourself. This revelation should put further rumors to bed that the Air Force inventory of sidearms is not safe. To the contrary, MHS is both safe and reliable and this has been attested to time and again. As you can see, no weapon exhibited anything beyond normal wear and tear and those deficiencies have been addressed by maintenance.

Adopted in 2017, there are currently around 500,00 MHS in the US military’s inventory consisting of the M17 and M18 pistols. They are based on the SIG SAUER P320 pistol which is also issued to militaries and law enforcement agencies worldwide. Combined with civilian owned versions of the pistol, they number in the millions.

Posted in Advertiser, Air Force, weapons | 2 Comments »

FirstSpear Friday Focus: Pistol Magazine Pocket, Speed Reload, Single

August 7th, 2026

The pistol reload is only as fast as the pocket it comes from. The FirstSpear Pistol Magazine Pocket, Speed Reload, Single is built on the same proven architecture as the FirstSpear M4 Speed Reload Pocket, purpose-sized for pistol magazines across a wide range of platforms including the G17/19, G21, G22/23, 1911, M9/226, S&W M&P 9mm, HK USP-9, HK P2000, and P30. Shock cord and speed tab retention keep the magazine secured until you need it, then get out of the way when you do.

Features:

  • BASED ON THE FS M4 SPEED RELOAD POCKET
  • SHOCK CORD AND SPEED TAB RETENTION
  • WIDE PISTOL PLATFORM COMPATIBILITY
  • AVAILABLE IN 6/9™ AND 6/12™ ATTACHMENT STYLES

At its core, the Pistol Magazine Pocket, Speed Reload, Single delivers positive retention and fast access in a single, low-profile package. Speed tabs are removable for a more streamlined setup. Available in Black, Coyote, Manatee Grey, MultiCam, Foliage Green, and Ranger Green, and configurable in both 6/9™ and 6/12™ attachment styles to fit any platform. Also available in double and triple configurations for higher-capacity loadouts.

Built for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and prepared professionals who demand reliable equipment, the Pistol Magazine Pocket, Speed Reload, Single delivers fast, consistent access to your pistol magazine without adding unnecessary bulk to the loadout. FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting-edge tactical gear for military, law enforcement, and those who train. To request an estimate, visit First-Spear.com/Request-For-Estimate. For more information visit First-Spear.com.

Posted in Advertiser, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post, Load Carrying | No Comments »

Tobyhanna Army Depot Enters First-of-Its-Kind Arrangement for Rapid sUAS Component Production

August 7th, 2026

REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. – In a move set to reshape the Defense Industrial Base, Tobyhanna Army Depot signed a landmark cooperative arrangement with a defense industry partner. This arrangement merges capabilities aimed at rapidly advancing domestic manufacturing and military readiness.

The strategic agreement empowers TYAD and Darkhive, a company focused on modern hardware and software solutions for aerospace and defense use, to combine strengths in support of critical Department of War requirements. This cooperative agreement focuses on the future of combat and defense, including the rapid development, production and sustainment of small-unmanned aircraft systems, or sUAS.

“The Organic Industrial Base is the backbone of Army readiness, but the world is changing, and the OIB needs to change too,” said Chris Mohan, commanding general of Army Materiel Command. “We are using new business practices, in coordination with the defense industrial base, to transform ourselves while simultaneously supporting high operational demands for U.S. forces and allies.”

The cooperative arrangement serves as a pioneering use of use of Title 10 of U.S. Code section 7544, which authorizes a working capital-funded Army industrial facility to enter into an agreement with a non-Army entity to carry out a military or commercial project. In this instance, the first time this authority has ever been leveraged by TYAD, the arrangement merges the Army’s premier Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Center of Excellence with industry best practices and capabilities.

The arrangement also comes on the heels of the Army’s OIB Transformation Strategy, signed in April 2026, to convert depots, arsenals and ammunition plants from a fragmented, maintenance-focused enterprise into a strategically aligned industrial engine capable of delivering combat-ready formations in competition, crisis and conflict.

“This is more than just a partnership as this agreement represents the future— the first of many designed to close the gap between commercial tech innovators and the military’s Organic Industrial Base,” said Jon Strzelec, AMC advanced manufacturing lead for sUAS. “By combining the speed and agility of the commercial sector with the massive production capability of our depots and arsenals, we are creating a new model for rapid defense innovation and product delivery.”

The agreement enables a dynamic sharing of resources allowing TYAD to utilize its state-of-the-art infrastructure to manufacture cutting-edge parts, perform sustainment services and directly produce industry-standard products for government use.

The arrangement also opens the doors of TYAD to Darkhive personnel, who will be able to lease and operate within the depot’s facilities, tapping into its extensive equipment and production capacity to further research and innovate sUAS technology while also generating working capital funds for TYAD.

“The arrangement allows Tobyhanna Army Depot to take advantage of DIB speed while Darkhive can develop new solutions for the government using OIB production lines that are already established,” Strzelec said. “And this synergistic approach won’t just stop with production of sUAS components.”

This cooperative arrangement is setting a new standard for modern defense collaboration with the OIB, ensuring a more resilient defense industrial base capable of meeting tomorrow’s national security challenges.

By Lindsay Grant

Posted in Army, C-UAS, Guest Post, Industry, Manufacturing | No Comments »

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