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Warrior Protection And Readiness Coalition Applauds Presidential Approval Of Defense Production Act For Warfighter Clothing, Textiles, And Equipment

February 24th, 2026

New Presidential Waiver Will Strengthen Domestic Industrial Base and Support the U.S. Warfighte

MARBLEHEAD, MA (February 24, 2026) – The Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) today applauded the latest signing of a Presidential Waiver (PW) under Title III of the Defense Production Act (DPA). This executive action by the President of the United States enablescritical government investment in the Berry Amendment-compliant domestic industrial base responsible for manufacturing body armor, ballistic helmets, uniforms, footwear, textiles and operational equipment for the U.S. military.

This long-awaited action—backed by years of WPRC advocacy—enables the Department of War (DoW) to use DPA Title III authorities to scale production of essential warfighter gear. The action addresses urgent concerns about domestic supply chain vulnerabilities and reflects the growing operational needs of U.S. forces deployed in cold weather, jungle, and maritime environments.

“This is a major victory for American manufacturing, national security, and our service members,” said WPRC Executive Director David Costello. “Thanks to this Presidential Waiver, our domestic industrial base will receive the new investment it needs to meet current defense demands and ensure future readiness. The WPRC is proud to have led the charge alongside our Congressional partners and DoW stakeholders to make this happen.”

The new PW follows a multi-year effort by the WPRC and its 70+ member companies to highlight growing risks within the U.S. textile and equipment supply chain. A recent wargame simulation commissioned by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) revealed severe capability gaps, underscoring the need for federal action to stabilize and grow this specialized manufacturing base. Over the past three years, WPRC members have supported Title III-funded production in response to both the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing defense requirements. However, until now, the sector lacked a Presidential Waiver under DPA Title III to receive sustained investment.

The WPRC extends its appreciation to key advocates in Congress for their steadfast support, including members of the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, who included directive report language in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) calling for the expedited approval of the PW.

Mr. Markin Dornan, Chairman of the WPRC said, “With this Presidential Waiver, the U.S. is sending a clear signal: American warfighters will be equipped with American-made gear built by a strong, secure, and reliableindustrial base. We thank the Department of War and the White House for recognizing the urgency of this issue and moving to authorize these critical investments.”

The Federal Register notice of this Presidential Waiver Memorandum forthe Secretary of War can be found here.

Posted in Guest Post, Industry, Manufacturing | 1 Comment »

Enforce Tac 26 – Asolo

February 24th, 2026

Asolo has introduced the Eldo Evo Tactical LTH to their tactical line of footwear which has been brought over from the Eldo Evo family.

It features an upper of water resistant suede while a polyamide lining for breathability and comfort. The thermoformed Eva midsole is paired with the Asolo/Vibram AG Pro with XS Trek compound sole. This new sole incorporated deeper Gus and a new compound for grip and traction on varied terrain with self cleaning.

Also offered in mid height. Sizes 7-12.5 UK. Made in Vietnam.

Available through Brigantes.

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Enforce Tac 26 – Tilak 2nd Generation Raptor

February 24th, 2026

Tilak has updated their Raptor hardshell with a second generation design. It’s a very sleek design.

Here’s a shot of the rear of the Raptor. The hem drawstring only tightens the front of the hem, leaving the rear to move freely.

One of the most glaring differences is how thy deal with pocket gussets. The original Raptor had external gussets but those could catch on things. Now gussets are internal.

Additionally, both chest pockets and sleeve pockets integrate a small drain at the bottom.

Here you can see sleeve pocket configuration with the drain and zipper which came from the operator jacket. It’s much easier to manipulate while wearing.

Another excellent detail is the easy to use drawstrings for the hood.

Finally, the Raptor 2nd Generation is made from GORE-TEX PRO Fabric with full seam taping.

migbytilak.com/en-global

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Enforce Tac 26 – 6-Color Desert at Helikon-Tex

February 24th, 2026

Last month we told you about Helikon-Tex creating gear in the classic US 6-color desert pattern. At Enforce Tac they outfitted a manikin with their new clothing paired up with Desert Storm-era gear to recreate the SCUD Hunter.

Here’s the rear of the manikin.

Here’s a shot of the Raid Shirt worn on the manikin to give you an idea of some of the details.

This manikin is wearing their new 6 Color & DNC Hoodie.

They’ve also introduced a cool graphic t-shirt with a SCUD Hunter design.

helikon-tex.com

Posted in Advertiser, Camo, Clothing | No Comments »

Enforce Tac 26 – UNITY Tactical’s Bridge for FAST REKE

February 24th, 2026

One of Five New FAST Line Extensions Launched Since SHOT Show UNITY Tactical unveiled its Bridge for FAST REKE at Enforce Tac. Bridge is a high-performance accessory for the FAST REKE mount that brings an LRF to 12 o-clock above a mid- to long-range scope, clearing taller turrets while allowing full access to dial them.

Replacing FAST REKE’s original top rings, Bridge was developed specifically for USSOCOM to clear the INOD and INOD-X Cooled Thermal CNVD. The design allows full access to dial and set zero stops on the scope but can also be easily removed for initial zeroing procedures. Once reinstalled, the Bridge maintains minimal to no shift in the LRF.

“The removable, snag-free M1913 Bridge ensures repeatable zero retention while allowing full access to dial tall turrets,” said Mike Roth, VP of domestic business development. “Featuring innovative pass-through ring caps, shooters can verify zero stops and settings without coming off the glass – ideal for weapons checks while seated in a vehicle. Bridge offers a purpose-built solution for absolute alignment that solves the turret access problem for shooters running these larger scopes.”

The Bridge’s dual support system eliminates susceptibility to bend or whip from impact, transport, or normal carry, ensuring superior zero retention compared to other mounts. Further, pass-throughs are visible from either side of the weapon.

Bridge is manufactured from 7075-T6 Aluminum and is Type III Hardcoat Anodized for durability. It is available in 30, 34 and 35mm ring sizes. The Bridge for FAST REKE will start shipping in early summer.

This is UNITY’s fifth product release already in 2026, with the first four dropping at SHOT Show last month. I gave an overview of their FAST SideKar, which was the coolest thing I saw at SHOT this year. In case you missed it, they also launched:

• Built at the request of a USMC unit, the FAST SCO Ring is specifically engineered to fit around the Marine Corps Squad Common Optic (Trijicon VCOG 1-8x). It allows any RMR footprint micro red dot optic to attach at a 12 o’clock position over the scope tube, clearing the top turret. This provides an option for shooters to immediately access a parallax-free optic during Close Quarters Battle, passive NODs engagement, or while wearing a protective mask. The FAST SCO Ring is currently only available for active-duty sales, but I’m told it will be available for purchase on their website in the coming weeks.

• The FAST KICKR was developed at the request of USSOCOM specifically for the EOTech Vudu 3-9×32 SFP as a lightweight drop-in replacement for the current factory mount. It places the optical centerline at 1.54” over the rail at optimal position for eye relief. FAST KICKR also accepts the new EOTech Vudu 4-12×36 FFP, all Trijicon ACOG, VCOG and Primary Arms MicroPrism optics. An optional anti-rotational MRDS Ring (sold separately) provides a 12 o’clock mounting platform for an MRDS. Compatible with the suite of FAST Optic Adapter Plates, users can attach their mini red dot to the self-indexing / anti-rotational ring.

• UNITY also released a stand-alone version of their integrated FAST FTC 4X. The FAST 4X Magnifier allows for use with the FAST FTC OMNI or mounts with a similar footprint but has the same clear, durable sighting designed for rapid transitions and confident shot placement. The fixed 4x magnification, 2.6-inch eye relief and generous field of view make it easy to pick up targets at a distance.

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2026 Enforce Tac

February 24th, 2026

This year’s Enforce Tac is bigger than ever with more vendors and more attendees. It also means enhanced security with longer lines.

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Robotic Systems Transform Chemical Defense Training, Enhance Capabilities

February 24th, 2026

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — While man transportable robotic systems, MTRS, aren’t new to the U.S. Army, the way instructors at the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence’s Chemical Defense Training Facility, CDTF, are incorporating the robots into training is transforming the way chemical Soldiers perform site exploration.

According to Master Sgt. Rolando Silguero, CDTF noncommissioned officer in charge, the facility began a three-phase integration process of the man transportable robotic system in the summer of 2025 to professional military education curriculum, specifically the CBRN Senior Leader and Captains Career Courses.

“The primary focus is to include operating procedures as well as tactics, techniques and procedures during actual exploitation operations,” Silguero said.

Soldiers are learning to use the MTRS by remotely deploying it on a fixed site target to detect, identify and in some applications neutralize, weapons of mass destruction materials from a safe distance.

“The MTRS offers stand-off protection to minimize risk to personnel and can carry multiple payloads for detection, including systems for live video and still photography,” Silguero said, and these skills will “increase Soldiers’ lethality and speed in complex, multi-domain operational environments.”

During training on Feb. 4, senior leader course students gathered around a monitor to watch the MTRS make its way through another part of the building. The Soldiers pointed out items as they identified them and noted key information they were gathering via the robot’s camera.

Sgt. 1st Class Dean Barney, CBRN SLC senior small group leader, said his students used the information to create a site sketch to visually organize and consolidate information reported by the MTRS.

“The sketch translates raw observations, such as hazard location, potential contamination and contamination spread, into a clear operation picture that leaders can quickly understand and act on,” Barney said. “This will support faster decision making, accurate reporting and effective follow-on actions, such as isolation, decontamination, maneuver and medical response in a CRBN environment where time and clarity directly impact mission success and troop survival.”

Barney said he was impressed with how his students seamlessly integrated the MTRS into their training.

“It’s a testament to their ingenuity, critical thinking skills and resilience as noncommissioned officers,” Barney said. “Their willingness to learn, problem-solve and push beyond their comfort zones reflects the kind of leadership today’s Army needs.”

According to Silguero, the CDTF has plans to make MTRS training available to other U.S. operational units training at the facility.

“As the global leader in live chemical agent warfare training, the CDTF is committed to the cutting edge of training realism by providing the highest quality, most immersive and exceptionally challenging training capability replicated nowhere else in the world,” Silguero said.

By Melissa Buckley, Fort Leonard Wood Public Affairs Office

Posted in Army, CBRNE, Guest Post, Robotics | No Comments »

Swarm Aero Announces Advanced Manufacturing Center, Celebrates Ribbon Cutting In Northwest Arkansas

February 23rd, 2026

Large uncrewed aerial vehicle manufacturer to accelerate development and deployment of aircraft at volumes not seen since WW II

OXNARD, Calif.–Swarm Aero (Swarm), a developer of large uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms, today announced the opening of its Advanced Manufacturing Center from a ribbon cutting event at the new 80,000 square foot facility in Fayetteville, Arkansas at Drake Field. Swarm, headquartered in Oxnard, California, will use this facility to accelerate the development and deployment of the company’s large UAV. Its Arkansas operations will have the ability to produce 1,000s of UAVs and will create hundreds of high-skill aerospace jobs over the next decade.

“We looked at over 20 states before deciding to put down manufacturing roots in Fayetteville, Arkansas. We chose Northwest Arkansas because of the exceptional talent and partners, and we’re thrilled to continue our growth here,” said Danny Goodman, CEO and Co-Founder, Swarm Aero. “Large UAVs are the future of armed conflict. When paired with our swarm command and control software, they can achieve major combat objectives by cooperating with superhuman dexterity while being several times cheaper than traditional aircraft. This is one of the most consequential developments in modern conflict and we have built an exceptionally talented engineering team to bring this vision to life.”

Swarm’s mission is to renew American air power by making large uncrewed aircraft that allow the U.S. to defend itself and its allies without putting pilots in harm’s way. Its Advanced Manufacturing Center is where this ambition becomes reality. Swarm’s pioneering approach to producing composite airframes allows manufacturing at volumes not seen since World War II.

“Swarm’s decision to open their manufacturing facility in Northwest Arkansas reinforces what we know to be true: our region is a destination for advanced manufacturing and next-generation aerospace innovation,” said Nelson Peacock, President and CEO, the Northwest Arkansas Council. “Swarm’s presence here will create meaningful, high-quality jobs while opening new pathways for collaboration with our universities, technical schools, and workforce programs. Just as importantly, Swarm’s mission strengthens the role our region can play in supporting technologies that are critical to America’s national security and industrial resilience. We are proud to welcome Swarm to Northwest Arkansas and look forward to supporting their growth as part of our community.”

Swarm intends to double its aircraft team in 2026 and is actively hiring across the organization. To learn more and apply to open roles, please visit: job-boards.greenhouse.io/swarmaero

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