TYR Tactical

US Marine Corps Selects GA-ASI for MUX TACAIR Collaborative Combat Aircraft Program

February 11th, 2026

GA-ASI’s YFQ-42A Platform to Support Next-Generation Expeditionary Air Operations

SAN DIEGO – 10 February 2026 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) was competitively selected by the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) for evaluation in the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Uncrewed Expeditionary Tactical Aircraft (MUX TACAIR) Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. The agreement integrates GA-ASI’s expertise in autonomy and uncrewed aircraft systems with a government-provided mission package, using the YFQ-42A platform as a surrogate to evaluate integration with crewed fighters.

The contract initiates integration of a Marine Corps mission kit into the YFQ-42A surrogate platform for assessment within the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF).

The USMC contract includes the rapid development of autonomy for the government-supplied mission kit — a cost-effective, sensor-rich, software-defined suite capable of delivering kinetic and non-kinetic effects — positioning the solution for use in expeditionary operations. This work will support evaluations of future MUX TACAIR capabilities.

“This selection builds upon the GA-ASI autonomous systems in use today and demonstrates our commitment to delivering next generation capabilities for critical USMC missions,” said Mike Atwood, Vice President of Advanced Programs for GA-ASI. “Our FQ-42, combined with our proven autonomy architecture and integration expertise, positions us to rapidly deliver an affordable CCA solution that enhances the Marine Air-Ground Task Force’s operational effectiveness in contested environments.”

GA-ASI was selected by the U.S. Air Force in April 2024 to build production-representative flight test articles for the CCA program. The YFQ-42A successfully conducted its maiden flight in August 2025, validating a “genus/species” concept for rapid, modular, and low-cost uncrewed fighter aircraft development. This approach enables a common core aircraft design that can be rapidly adapted for different mission sets and service requirements.

The YFQ-42A is a purpose-built CCA platform developed as part of GA-ASI’s ongoing investment in next-generation autonomous combat aircraft. The aircraft’s modular design enables rapid integration of mission systems. GA-ASI’s autonomy architecture, demonstrated through multiple live flight tests, provides the foundation for human-machine teaming in complex combat scenarios.

SOFWERX Hosts Private Capital Investor Cohort Assessment Virtual Event 11-27 March 2026

February 11th, 2026

Where Capital Gets Tactical
SOFWERX, in collaboration with USSOCOM, will host an Private Capital Investor Cohort (PCIC) Assessment Event to identify private capital organizations with novel technology companies that align with the Special Operations Forces Acquisition Technology and Logistics (SOF AT&L) portfolio.

USSOCOM requires a private capital cohort to help accelerate capability development across all USSOCOM Program Executive Offices. Private capital organizations must understand markets and technologies aligned with SOF interests and have expertise in academic and accelerator services. Understanding that awardee maturity can happen through commercial revenue, Prime partnerships, Phase III contracts, private investment, and other government opportunities, a solution provider must have expertise on all means to actualize the capability.

Objective
The objective is to provide a purpose-driven community around accelerating SOF capability to solve operational problems. This program will host in-person and virtual events focused on best practices to deliver new capabilities at speed and scale to the SOF warfighter.

Who Should Submit?
Criteria for inclusion in the Cohort are:  

Company should have a record of investing in defense technology. A record of investments in technologies aligned with the SOF AT&L portfolio of programs is highly desirable. A record of investing in defense technology companies who have had successful exits (merger, acquisition, initial public offering etc.), is also highly desirable.

Company may have a record of investing at the Seed and Series A stages of company growth.

Company may have a record of later stage investing; Series B and beyond.

Company may be considered growth equity and/or traditional banking.

Company should have raised an investment fund and be in the process of deploying capital over the period of performance.

The Company need not meet the definition of a Venture Capital fund as given meaning by the Investment Advisors Act of 1940 (15 USC 80b), though Companies must be accredited investors as defined by Rule 501 of Regulation D of the Securities Act of 1933.

The General Partnership and employees of the Company must be U.S. Citizens.

Passive Limited Partners that are non-U.S. entities will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis but may not be otherwise prohibited or restricted from doing business with the Government. For example, entities on the DoD “Section 1260H” list (P.L. 116-283), the Office of Financial Asset Control Specially Designated National list, or the Bureau of Industry and Security Entity List.

Why You Should Participate
USSOCOM seeks to enter into non-FAR or FAR-based agreements with Industry, Academic, and National Lab partners whose solutions are favorably evaluated by USSOCOM Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). As such, the follow-on Assessment Event (AE) is considered competitive and solutions will be evaluated independently of one another primarily for technical merit. This serves dually as notification of the intent to research the feasibility of an agreement under 10 U.S. Code, Section 4022 and/or Section 4022(f), and as notice of pre-solicitation activities IAW FAR 5.204.

To learn more, visit events.sofwerx.org/pcic26

Submit NLT 27 February 2026 11:59 PM ET

2026 Crye Precision Catalog

February 11th, 2026

You asked, so here it is.

www.cryeprecisioninfo.com/Catalog/2026_catalog

New Items that didn’t make it in time for the catalog.

www.cryeprecision.com/Resources/en/Catalog/2026_new_items

Technology That Protects: Enforce Tac Conference Brings Industry Experts, Researchers and End-Users Together

February 11th, 2026

Enforce Tac 2026 – Germany’s leading trade fair for internal and external security is set to take place in Nuremberg from 23 to 25 February 2026. As part of the event, the Enforce Tac Conference on 23 February complements the trade fair activities by providing a separate forum for the latest key technologies. The conference will focus on electronic systems, sensors, drone defence, intelligent systems, and strategic issues relating to the development of modern defence and security technologies.

The Enforce Tac Conference is specifically geared towards developers, project managers and technology decision-makers from industry and research establishments, as well as representatives of the armed forces and security agencies. It provides a compact overview of the latest technological trends, specific use cases, and regulatory frameworks, creating a platform for direct dialogue between the various players who are helping to shape Europe’s future security. “With the Enforce Tac Conference, we are creating a hub where technological expertise converges with practical requirements and strategic perspectives,” explains Jasmin Rutka, Exhibition Director Enforce Tac, adding: “Especially when it comes to electronic and software-based systems, we are seeing significant pressure to innovate and a clear need for communication between developers, industry stakeholders, and end-users.”

Technological responses to current security requirements

The conference programme comprises four keynotes, 16 presentations and two panel discussions, covering a wide range of topics including innovative sensor solutions, drone defence solutions, and AI-assisted systems. The diverse keynotes and presentations explore topics such as software-defined defence concepts, multi-sensor reconnaissance technologies, resilient communication structures, and the role of intelligent systems in mission-critical applications.

The four keynotes address pivotal technological and strategic developments that are currently shaping the industry. The opening keynote is “Software-defined defence – enabler for combat-ready digital armed forces” by Brigadier-General Dr Volker Pötzsch from the German Ministry of Defence. The presentation will focus on the paradigm for software-defined capabilities as the basis for adaptable, resilient, and interoperable military systems. In this context, it will explore open architectures, modular platform approaches, and the role of artificial intelligence as a driver of future defence capability development.

Next up is Alexander Philipp, Managing Director of Rohde & Schwarz Vertriebs GmbH, who will talk about the changes to the underlying industrial policy framework. “As the defence sector will be exempt from the prescribed borrowing limits within the scope of the ‘turning point 2.0’ structural reform, the security and defence industry is now in a position to make long-term investments,” stresses Philipp, identifying the factors he sees as necessary for the success of such investments: “Swift order placement and economic predictability, alongside technical flexibility, are important and beneficial for all stakeholders.”

In his keynote in the early afternoon, Dr. Markus Reisner, Colonel of the Austrian Army, explores the impacts of modern battlefields on military operational realities. In particular, he describes FPV (First Person View) drones and electronic warfare (EW) as ‘scourges of the modern battlefield’ that are currently posing enormous challenges for the armed forces involved in the conflict in Ukraine. In his presentation, Dr. Reisner provides details of how these capabilities are being used and suggests possible responses to them.

The final keynote by Professor Patrick Glauner from skyrocket.ai is ‘AI in the defence industry: technology, strategies, opportunities and regulatory challenges’. In his presentation, he shows how artificial intelligence is increasingly transforming the defence industry – from planning, data analysis and decision support to autonomous systems. At the same time, he explores technological, strategic and ethical issues as well as regulatory frameworks for the use of AI, while highlighting the role played by governments, industry and academia in its responsible implementation.

Strategic debates on the future of the European security industry

The two panel discussions at the Enforce Tac Conference provide a distinctive highlight. Under the heading ‘Quantity or quality? What European defence needs most’, representatives of industry, consultancies and the research community discuss the technological and industrial priorities that Europe should focus on in the light of the current security climate. This involves finding a balance between fast scaling of capabilities, technological excellence, and sustainable innovative strength.

The second discussion panel is devoted to the interplay between industry and innovation, with a focus on technological developments, innovation cycles, and the role of startups, SMEs and established system companies in an increasingly interconnected security industry environment. Accordingly, both panels address key aspects that are crucial to the long-term capabilities of the European security and defence industry.

As Professor Patrick Glauner, who serves as both a keynote speaker and panel member to discuss Europe’s future technological capabilities, underlines: “I hope that the Enforce Tac Conference will engender a genuine spirit of optimism and that the attendees will realise that AI can be adopted quickly and without the huge costs that are often expected. With the right experts on board and suitable best practices, AI can be used quickly and relatively inexpensively. If the conference succeeds in bringing these people together, it will have been an immense success.”

Bridge between research, industry and end-users

Alongside technological innovations, the conference will also look at overarching issues, e.g., relating to product development, regulatory frameworks like export controls, and resilient supply chains. “Intelligent systems are the key components of modern security and defence technologies. The conference aims to discuss technological solutions, identify areas of application, and bring together experts from various industries,” explains Professor Axel Sikora, Chairman of the Enforce Tac Conference.

A compact format delivering high-level expertise

As a one-day format, the Enforce Tac Conference offers a compact, densely structured programme with keynotes, specialist presentations, and discussion formats. Q&A sessions allow direct contact with speakers, while networking breaks are specifically designed to facilitate conversations between developers, system integrators, suppliers, and users. The conference is therefore not just an addition to the exhibition but a key professional dialogue forum within Enforce Tac.

Visitors need a separate conference ticket to take part in the Enforce Tac Conference. This ticket provides access to the Enforce Tac trade fair on all three days. Places are limited.

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

www.enforcetac.com/en/visit

From Backpacks to Bird’s-Eye: Drones Transforming EOD at Hurlburt Field

February 11th, 2026

Across a stretch of open terrain at Hurlburt Field, Florida, two 1st Special Operations Wing Airmen began a race between machines. One guided a ground robot toward a simulated casualty, its treads working across dirt and grass. The other launched a small unmanned aerial system, or drone, which reached the site within seconds. From above, the drone’s camera streamed a clear view of the scene before the robot made it halfway there.

It’s a new kind of flight reshaping how Explosive Ordnance Disposal Airmen execute their mission—and how the Air Force strengthens readiness through innovation. Before the adoption of modernized drones, EOD teams relied primarily on heavy robotic platforms to inspect potential explosive threats. The systems still provide valuable standoff capability but require vehicle transport and setup time, limiting their use during dismounted operations. In those scenarios, Airmen may have to approach hazards themselves.

Compact and portable drones can now be carried in a backpack and launched within minutes. Operated from a safe distance, they stream real-time imagery that helps Airmen assess hazards without approaching them. The drones give teams an unmatched view of any environment. They combine optical and thermal cameras for day or night operations with advanced 3D scanning that produces precise digital models in minutes, whether documenting blast sites or mapping entire airfields.

Drone imagery can be used to establish a visual reference of a runway and to collect updated imagery after an incident. The data helps civil engineers quickly identify changes or damage, supporting timely clearance actions and repair planning to resume air operations.

Built-in artificial intelligence also allows drones to operate with a high degree of autonomy. The system can identify and track targets, hold position, and navigate around obstacles with minimal operator input. These capabilities boost mission tempo and efficiency while augmenting the work of Airmen, keeping them out of harm’s way and allowing them to focus on critical decision-making.

Drones have not yet replaced every function of traditional robots, but the two technologies currently complement one another on the battlefield. “The big thing [a drone] doesn’t currently have is manipulation,” explained an 1 SOW Airman. “I can’t pull a battery off something or flip something over [with a drone], but a robot can.” Still, drones are increasingly assuming tasks once limited to ground platforms, expanding options for commanders and reinforcing the Air Force’s ability to adapt faster than its adversaries.

Introducing any new technology brings challenges, but EOD Airmen at Hurlburt Field have moved quickly to overcome them. Through local innovation projects, the team acquired and tested drones early, giving them a head start in integrating the capability into daily operations. “We’ve had the ability to work through a lot of the growing pains much faster,” said a 1 SOW Airman. “Now we’re able to disseminate those lessons throughout the career field.”

That progress continues as Airmen refine training and certification standards while identifying where drones provide the most operational value. “A lot of this is going to fluctuate based on use cases, because we all have a general idea of how we’d want to use this… but there’s still a lot to learn,” said an Airman.

1 SOW Airmen emphasized that the success of drone integration depends as much on institutional understanding as on technology itself. They said progress requires high-level advocacy to navigate the policies and risk assessments that come with operating in shared airspace, along with trust between ground units employing the systems and aviation communities managing them. As one Airman explained, the future fight will rely on an enterprise that adapts quickly and learns from those already proving what’s possible.

At Hurlburt Field, 1st SOW EOD Airmen are showing how small systems can yield big results. The shift from large ground robots to backpack-sized drones is transforming how they detect, respond, and recover—bringing speed, precision, and safety to every mission. “These are coming. This is the way of the future,” said a 1st SOW Airman. “If it’s not in your shop currently, it probably will be in the very near future. Get ready.”

Story by Alexandra Broughton 

Headquarters Air Force, Office of the Director of Civil Engineers

MARSS to Showcase Live NiDAR C4I Platform at World Defense Show 2026

February 10th, 2026

Fully operational demonstrator will showcase multi-domain sensor fusion, autonomous mission management, and Edge-to-Mission Command (E2MC) capabilities.

MARSS, a technology company already protecting millions of lives across the globe, is bringing a live fully operational NiDAR demonstrator to the upcoming World Defense Show in Riyadh from 8-12 February. Visitors to the MARSS stand will get hands-on experience with the system, exploring how NiDAR transforms layered multi-domain defence operations.

Already operational at more than 60 sites worldwide protecting critical civilian infrastructure and military assets, NiDAR is a complete C4I platform that fuses data from numerous sensors into one unified operational picture. The system is sensor and effector agnostic, seamlessly integrating both legacy systems already in the field and the latest best-in-class equipment across radar, RF, EO/IR, sonar, and many more sensor-types.

Backed by over 20 years of operational experience and one of the largest threat datasets in the world, NiDAR’s AI-enhanced platform autonomously detects, tracks, classifies and prioritises threats and recommends optimal countermeasures to operators in real-time and across all domains.  

By consolidating sensor data and mission support into a single intuitive interface, NiDAR dramatically reduces operator burden. Where traditional systems require multiple operators across all different sensor feeds, NiDAR can be operated by a single person.

Able to hand-off directly to soft-kill and kinetic effectors from the same single interface, the platform dramatically accelerates sensor-to-shooter timelines.  In providing an end-to-end kill chain capability, NiDAR reduces the decision cycle from minutes to seconds across detection, classification, and defeat of asymmetric threats. This compressed timeline is critical in modern defence operations where speed of response can determine mission success – particularly when addressing swarm attacks and other coordinated drone threats.

At the World Defense Show, MARSS will also demonstrate the latest enhancements to NiDAR, including:

NiDAR Autonomous Mission Management (AMM) – enabling operators to autonomously task, and deploy uncrewed assets across air, land, and sea domains, transforming UAVs, UGVs, and USVs into intelligent autonomous sensors and effectors within the wider defence ecosystem.

NiDAR Nation Shield – the world’s first “E2MC” C4I platform, providing a single, coherent operating picture across all tiers of operations. From tactical edge personnel using ruggedised tablets through to strategic command centres with 360° display capabilities.

The MARSS team will also share updates on recent contract wins with GCC, NATO and Indo-Pacific states, reinforcing the platform’s growing role in protecting what matters most to warfighters: people, critical infrastructure, and assets across the globe.

Rob Balloch, Chief Growth Officer at MARSS, said: “The World Defense Show provides the perfect platform to demonstrate how NiDAR has evolved beyond a traditional C2 to a complete C4I ecosystem. With our focus on sensor fusion, autonomous mission management, and unified command architecture, we’re addressing the critical challenges facing modern defence: doing more with fewer personnel while accelerating decision-making from minutes to seconds.”

Robbie Draper, Director of Operations at MARSS, added: “This isn’t a static display – visitors can get hands on with a live, fully functional NiDAR system – and see for themselves how we’re transforming layered multi-domain defence operations. From the tactical edge to strategic headquarters, NiDAR delivers the single operating picture that commanders have never had before.”

To experience NiDAR’s capabilities first-hand, visit the MARSS stand on the UK Pavilion, H1-H40, at the World Defense Show 2026.

Shell Tech Launches Shell Tech Gear

February 10th, 2026

The new website features the Shell Tech™-branded apparel and accessories line, featuring durable and modern clothing and lifestyle accessories tailored to the 2A, shooting sports, and hunting communities.

Eubank, Ky. (February 2026) – Shell Tech™, a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, is proud to announce the launch of Shell Tech Gear, a dedicated website for its Shell Tech-branded apparel and accessories. This new gear-focused website will sell Shell Tech’s premium apparel and accessories collection designed for outdoor enthusiasts, firearms aficionados, and hunting communities. Combining durability, functionality, and modern style, Shell Tech Apparel offers high-performance gear, such as t-shirts, hoodies, hats, and flannels, built to keep up with the most demanding lifestyles.

“This launch expands Shell Tech into a true lifestyle brand,” said Peter Foss, Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. “Our gear is built for people who push hard, train hard, and live boldly. We’re proud to offer apparel and accessories that reflect the strength and spirit of our community.”

Designed for comfort and durability, the Shell Tech T-Shirt line is crafted from premium-grade, breathable cotton blends. These shirts feature reinforced double-stitched seams for enhanced durability, shrink-resistant construction for longevity and hassle-free care, and modern, tailored fits in bold color options. Available in Sizes Small to 2XL for $24.99.

Built for versatility and all-weather performance, the Shell Tech Hoodie is crafted with innovative Tech-Terry™ material. This mid-weight hoodie offers optimal warmth and breathability, ensuring you stay comfortable whether trekking through rugged trails, hunting, or relaxing by the campfire. Its sleek design delivers a modern yet practical aesthetic, suitable for any outdoor activity. The Shell Tech Hoodie boasts secure, easy-to-access pockets to keep your essentials within reach, while its adjustable hood and relaxed fit provide a perfect balance between mobility and protection. Sustainably made with responsibly sourced materials, this hoodie reflects Shell Tech’s commitment to eco-conscious living without compromising on durability or performance. Lightweight yet resilient, it is built to handle the demands of year-round adventures, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Available in Sizes Small to 2XL for $49.95.

For those who appreciate a rugged, functional style, the Shell Tech Flannel provides a perfect balance of warmth, durability, and flexibility. Crafted from a resilient cotton-polyester blend, this flannel is perfect for all-season wear. Thoughtful details like a glass-cleaning hem, stylish contrast taping, and secure buttoned pocket flaps enhance both practicality and aesthetic appeal. Lightweight and travel-friendly, it’s the ultimate companion for hunts, range outings, or weekend adventures. Available in Sizes Small to 2XL for $59.95 – $69.95.

From Hi-Vis Logo Caps to the Shell Tech Truck Cap, Shell Tech headwear is meticulously designed for performance-driven outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring quick-drying, UV-protected fabrics, our headwear shields you from the elements while ensuring a tactical, stylish finish that’s built to last. MSRP $24.95.

Beyond apparel, Shell Tech has also expanded into high-quality accessories designed to support an active lifestyle, perfect for outdoor adventurers and their four-legged companions. This includes products like the Shell Tech Dog Bowl, which is ruggedly designed to withstand tough environments while feeding your dog, and the Shell Tech Rambler 24-Oz. Mug with Magslider™ Lid, crafted with double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks icy cold or piping hot for hours.

Shell Tech Apparel and Accessories seamlessly combine innovation, durability, and style, ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. Designed for those who push the limits, the collection features premium materials, reinforced construction, and functional designs tailored to outdoor and shooting sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re braving the elements, training at the range, or embracing an active lifestyle, Shell Tech Gear is built to perform – everywhere, every time.

?Join the Shell Tech Community and experience apparel and accessories built for those who demand excellence. ?Keep up with Shell Tech’s advanced ammunition on the website and social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

USSOCOM Rapid Capability Assessment Event 20-24 April 2026

February 10th, 2026

SOFWERX and ICWERX, in collaboration with USSOCOM’s Directorate of Science and Technology (S&T) and the Central Intelligence Agency’s (CIA) Directorate of Science & Technology (DS&T), will host the seventeenth Rapid Capability Assessment event (RCA17) 20-24 April, 2026, in Chantilly, VA, with the theme “Field-Forward Operations – Future Challenges for SOF and the IC in Data Dense Environments.”

Field-forward operations refer to the real-time or near real-time collection, processing, analysis, and dissemination of intelligence information in the field or at the source to support mission planning and tactical decision making. These activities rely on advanced technologies, including diverse sensors, smart systems, distributed networks, communication platforms, and AI-driven analytical suites. While these technologies offer significant advantages by providing actionable insights in real-time, they also introduce vulnerabilities (e.g., data reliability and accuracy, cybersecurity, processing speed, and energy efficiency). Addressing these vulnerabilities is crucial for maximizing the potential of these technologies while minimizing risks, thereby enabling mission success.

To address these challenges, SOF & the CIA will need to:

  • Develop a vision for the future challenges posed by data dense intelligence operations
  • Identify and understand risks, vulnerabilities, and adversarial actions that threaten these operations and take appropriate measures with partners and allies at machine speed
  • Develop plans and policies to enable operational advantage in global field environments and exploit dual-use capabilities
  • Identify, recruit, and train for the skillsets required to conduct future interagency field-forward operations 

Participants will also have the opportunity to provide input to other teams who are working in other focus areas: 

  • Advanced Analytics: Explores how Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)-like systems and Mixture of Experts models can assist with intelligence analysis, with a focus on ethical and secure deployment.
  • Mapping Building Infrastructure: Investigates conventional and unconventional methods of integration with intelligent building systems such as lighting, fire suppression, and HVAC.  
  • Novel Energy Sources: Focuses on efficiently generating, storing, and managing power in low-profile installations, including heat mitigation techniques for confined or off-grid environments.
  • Data Communications/Exfiltration: This focus area has two prongs: one focuses on globally dispersed, low-power edge sensors that can operate independently while triggering more complex systems through tipping and cueing; the second explores secure, high-throughput, and low-signature data transmission in both fixed and mobile environments.  
  • Edge Device Optimization: Focuses on maximizing processing efficiency of globally dispersed, low-power edge sensors that can operate independently while triggering more complex systems through alerting, tipping, and ranging. 

The outputs from the event include:  

  • A subsystem-level architectural breakdown of the capabilities developed during the event  
  • Identified risks, constraints, policies, regulations, etc., impacting the capability
  • Analysis of the ways and means through which the capability may achieve desired effects  
  • Initial market research of potential technology performers with appropriate expertise
  • A technology development roadmap to identify potential paths forward to implementation 

USSOCOM S&T has developed and refined a unique process, the Innovation Cycle, to engage technology pioneers and leaders to discover and develop high risk, innovative, and disruptive concepts, capabilities, and technologies for future on-boarding.  

A predecessor event, Innovation Foundry 17 (IF17), was the first phase of the Innovation Cycle and was focused on idea generation. RCA17 will build upon this foundation by bringing together experts from industry, academia, and national laboratories, to collaborate with Special Operations Forces (SOF) and CIA personnel to decompose the IF17 outputs through facilitated exercises using systems engineering frameworks.

For more information, visit events.sofwerx.org/rca17.

Submit NLT 26 February 11:59 PM ET

U.S. Citizens Only

* image by Grok