TYR Tactical

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FirstSpear’s TUBES FASTENERS replace outdated hook-and-loop closures and bulky cummerbunds with a system that actually works when it matters.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 | No Comments »

US and Philippine Soldiers Conduct Electronic Warfare Training at Exercise Salaknib 2026

April 24th, 2026

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Philippines – Building from the ground up. From individual skills to full team integration, success in the modern battlespace depends on a shared, expert understanding of the environment.

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Andres Rodriguez, a Cyber and Electronic Warfare officer assigned to the 25th Infantry Division, explains the core goal of bilateral training during Exercise Salaknib 2026.
“The goal is… team integration, so that we can ensure that our Filipino partners know how to use our equipment and we can use their equipment,” Rodriguez said. “So they’ll be more proficient on the foundations and tactics of EW as a whole.”

Exercise Salaknib is an annual rehearsal designed to enhance the combined capabilities of the U.S. and Philippine Armies, strengthening the U.S.-Philippine Alliance and reinforcing a shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

US Army video by SGT Taylor Gray

Posted in Army, EW, Guest Post | No Comments »

Major Order Worth Billions: Rheinmetall to Supply the Bundeswehr with FV-014 Loitering Munition

April 23rd, 2026

Rheinmetall has received a major order from the Bundeswehr for FV-014 loitering munition systems. A contract to that effect was signed today in Koblenz. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2027, following qualification from the second quarter of 2026. The framework contract is worth billions, with the first call-off amounting to approximately €300m gross. The order will be booked in April 2026. The framework agreement optionally includes a five-figure number of FV-014 autonomous recce and strike drones.

“Within a very short time, Rheinmetall has developed an autonomous drone that combines reconnaissance and strike capabilities. The FV-014 will enable the Bundeswehr to protect its own forces and engage critical targets in a fast, controlled and effective manner. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and will begin producing the system in large quantities on an industrial scale very soon”, said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG.

The FV-014 loitering munition system has a range of up to 100 km and is equipped with a 4 kg warhead and detonator mechanism. The drone can remain airborne for up to 70 minutes, monitoring targets until engaging on them. The system combines intelligence and firepower and is manufactured entirely within the EU.

Posted in Contracts, International, Munitions, Press Release | No Comments »

Tiberius Aerospace Achieves World-First in Artillery: Liquid-fuelled Ramjet Ignition Successfully Achieved from a NATO-Standard 155mm Howitzer

April 23rd, 2026

Tiberius Aerospace, a modern defence technology company built to empower the UK, US and their global allies with next-generation weapon systems and AI-powered solutions, has successfully demonstrated, for the first time, that a liquid-fuelled ramjet projectile can be launched from a NATO-standard 155mm howitzer, achieve ramjet ignition and perform as intended in flight. This liquid fuel breakthrough, achieved during recent test firings of its Sceptre system in New Mexico, represents a fundamental shift in what artillery systems are capable of delivering on the modern battlefield.

Sceptre is a 155mm precision-guided munition designed for full compatibility with existing NATO-standard artillery systems. The latest round of testing confirmed that it can reach ranges of up to 150 kilometres, travel at speeds of approximately Mach 3.5 and operate at altitudes exceeding 65,000 feet beyond typical jamming range. It delivers a 5.2kg payload with a circular error probability (CEP) of less than 5 metres, even in GPS-contested environments, and requires no modifications to current artillery platforms. The system is designed with a modular, open architecture that allows for continuous upgrades and uses widely available fuels such as diesel variants (JP-4 and JP-8), reducing the logistical burden associated with deployment.

A critical milestone in these trials was the successful ignition of the liquid-fuelled ramjet following exposure to launch forces of approximately 18,000 g, alongside the validation of stable flight dynamics, controlled rotation and the effective deployment of in-flight stabilisation systems.

Together, these results demonstrate that the technology is not only viable in theory but can function reliably in operationally relevant conditions. In practical terms, this successful test firing shows that it is now possible to combine the long range and speed typically associated with missile systems with significant cost savings, flexibility and the deployability of traditional artillery. This creates a new category of capability that sits between conventional artillery and high-end missile systems, addressing a long-standing gap in military capability.

While missile systems provide range and accuracy, they remain expensive and constrained in supply. Conventional artillery, by contrast, is scalable and cost-effective but limited in range and capability. Sceptre bridges this gap by offering missile-like performance while retaining the production advantages and flexibility of artillery systems. When enabled by Tiberius Aerospace’s AI-powered GRAIL platform, Sceptre has the potential to materially increase the volume of precision firepower available to allied forces, reduce reliance on high-cost missile inventories and enable faster, more scalable production at a time when industrial capacity is under strain. Crucially, the system is designed to support licensed domestic manufacturing, enabling allied nations to produce Sceptre within their own industrial base, strengthening sovereign capability, shortening supply chains and accelerating time to field. It also supports a shift towards more resilient, sovereign and distributed manufacturing models across allied defence ecosystems.

Chad Steelberg, Founder and CEO of Tiberius Aerospace, said: “This is a genuine world first breakthrough. These tests prove not only the technology, but a new way of delivering capability at pace, at scale and at significantly lower cost. Having successfully proved our design and engineering methodologies, we now need to move to much larger ranges to deliver the next phase of testing, validation and certification. Sceptre is an ambitious and complex project, but these successful US test firing results prove we are quickly advancing along the right trajectory.”

Posted in Ammo, Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Intro to KAC Suppressor Design Concept

April 23rd, 2026

This is a great video featuring Knights Armament Co’s Jack Leub on their suppression technology.

Posted in Suppressors | No Comments »

What If? – L85A4

April 23rd, 2026

I found this image online of a British SA80 equipped with the Strategic Sciences Corporation Multi Function Muzzle Device, an innovative 3D printed suppressor recently adopted by the Canadian Armed Forces for use on their new Canadian Modular Assault Rifle.

Due to its over the barrel dosing, it only adds 1″ to the overall length.

What if the UK followed suit?

Posted in International, weapons | No Comments »

Whiskey 5 – The Ranch Texas

April 23rd, 2026

Who

The Ranch Texas is a Tier-1 training facility serving OGAs, federal agencies, military units, law enforcement, first responders, and vetted civilians. Founded by Chad Timney—a former pro-shooter, law enforcement firearms instructor, executive protection experienced, and training facility developer with over 20 years of experience—The Ranch TX was designed to close the gap between flat-range training and real-world application.

The leadership and instructional cadre includes professionals with backgrounds in U.S. Special Operations, military, law enforcement, anti-trafficking, tactical medicine, firefighting, emergency response, K9 training, executive protection, and government program management. Programs are developed and delivered by subject matter experts with real-world operational experience.

The Ranch TX also supports government and agency training initiatives, offering scalable program development, interagency training environments, and mission-specific customization.

What

The Ranch TX is a 300+ acre tactical training complex delivering immersive, scenario-based training across multiple operational disciplines:

– Close Quarters Battle (CQB) & Small Unit Tactics (SUT)

– Firearms training (pistol, rifle, SPR/DMR, low-light, night operations)

– Force-on-force (UTM/SIMS) and live-fire CQB

– Mechanical, ballistic, and explosive breaching

– Tactical driving & high-threat mobility (executive protection / PSD)

– TCCC / TECC / CLS (NAEMT-aligned medical training)

– Fireground and multi-agency response training

– K9 training (obedience, behavior modification, protection, working dogs)

Law enforcement training programs are designed to support POST/TCOLE-aligned continuing education and real-world application, with an emphasis on integration across patrol, SWAT, tactical medics, and command-level decision-making.

The facility is purpose-built for realism, safety, and repeatability at scale. Infrastructure includes:

– 11,000 sq. ft. live-fire shoothouse (largest commercial in the U.S.A.)

– 175,000 sq. ft. urban training environment (MOUT site)

– 14 firearm ranges, including SPR tower (700+ yards)

– Vehicle mobility driving tracks (including WPS-certified asphalt track (U.S. State Department standard)

– Off-road mobility terrain and unimproved road course

– Breaching campus for mechanical, ballistic, and explosive entry

– Dedicated explosive training area with observation bunkers

– Field operations and HLZ/DZ capable training zones

– DoD-compliant and ATF-aligned armory and storage capabilities

In addition to training, The Ranch TX operates The Ranch Media—an in-house production arm that creates high-end, real-world content for defense, tactical, and outdoor brands. This allows companies to test, validate, and showcase equipment in authentic environments with real operators.

Where

The Ranch TX is located in Dilley, Texas, approximately 50 minutes south of the San Antonio airport.

The location provides a rare combination of scale, accessibility, and operational freedom—allowing units to conduct training that would be restricted or limited in most environments. Located in south Texas, its proximity to major military installations and law enforcement agencies makes it an ideal CONUS training destination.

On-site infrastructure includes lodging, dining, classrooms, and mission planning spaces, enabling full-spectrum, multi-day training evolutions for individual units or multi-agency operations.

When

The Ranch TX has rapidly evolved into a national-level training destination, supporting ongoing programs for military, federal, state, and local agencies, as well as private sector operators.

In addition to year-round training, The Ranch also hosts large-scale training events, including Police Week (May 14–17, 2026), a free national training symposium for sworn law enforcement. The event brings together instructors, agencies, and industry partners for multi-discipline training, operational collaboration, and knowledge exchange.

The facility continues to expand its infrastructure and program offerings to meet increasing demand for high-fidelity, scenario-based training environments.

Why

Because flat-range proficiency alone does not translate to real-world performance.

The Ranch TX exists to enhance survivability through realism, pressure, and repetition. Training is designed to force decision-making under stress, integrate multiple skillsets, and expose individuals and teams to the complexity of real-world environments.

Core training priorities include:

– Decision-making under pressure

– Integration of shooting, movement, communication, and medical response

– Low-light and limited-visibility operations

– Team-based problem solving in confined and dynamic environments

– Immediate feedback and after-action review (AAR)

The Ranch provides a controlled environment where units can safely train at a level that reflects real operational demands—without the limitations typically imposed by space, policy, or infrastructure.

When repetition meets realism, performance becomes instinct.

Website: RanchTX.org

Location: Dilley, Texas

Contact: Chad@RanchTX.org

Posted in Training, Whiskey 5 | No Comments »

US Army Seeks Unmanned Ground Vehicle for “Last Tactical Mile”

April 23rd, 2026

Researching for a presentation I gave last summer at the National Defense Industrial Association Future Forces Conferences on robotics and drones I realized that while the US Army is working diligently to field drones in large numbers, it’s just a drop in the bucket once they figure out how many ground robotic systems they’ll need. To illustrate my point I explained that at the time, the US Army had an inventory of around 3,900 aircraft and 700 enduring capability drones. Meanwhile, there were ~420,000 ground vehicles making it about 11:1 ground to air systems. I expect we’ll see a similar ratio of ground to air robotics once the capability fully settles into the enterprise and those ground robots will take many forms and perform many duties. This capability is just the beginning.

According to a Special Notice released last week, Capability Program Executive (CPE) Mission Autonomy is actively pursuing a UGV designed to autonomously support maneuver formations in the critical “last tactical mile”. This advanced UGV, owned by maneuver formations, will both sustain Platoon and Company formations by delivering essential supplies/energy and will evacuate wounded personnel from the point of injury to a casualty collection point. This dual use UGV shall feature a configurable payload to meet the dynamic needs of maneuver formations.

The UGV must be capable of teleoperation, autonomous navigation, and beyond-line-of-sight communications, and execute resupply and CASEVAC missions with minimal reconfiguration.

The modern battlefield is characterized by persistent enemy surveillance and rapid application of lethal effects at and behind the forward line of troops (FLOT), making any movement to and from the FLOT highly vulnerable. This environment challenges commanders’ ability to resupply units and evacuate casualties. The Army refers to the critical distance between the FLOT and supported units as the “Last Tactical Mile” – the final segment of ground over which supplies, equipment, or personnel must be moved under the greatest threat from enemy observation and fires. This phase is often the most dangerous and logistically complex, requiring innovative solutions to ensure mission success and force protection.

The UGV should be capable of supporting the sustainment needs of a dismounted Rifle Platoon or Company Headquarters for extended operations (reference ATP 5-0.2-1 Staff Reference Guide Volume 1, Unclassified, for Battalion weight needs). It should be able to transport various classes of supply and operate autonomously across diverse terrains and environments, maintaining reliable communications with supported units. The UGV should be able to navigate both on- and off-road routes, including areas without GPS, and support situational awareness. It should minimize detectable signatures and emissions during operations, including in the final approach to supported units.

The UGV should be capable of being reconfigured by the maneuver unit for multiple roles, including casualty evacuation. It should be able to autonomously transport at least two (2) casualties from the point of injury to a designated collection point, without causing additional harm to the patient. The cargo area should be modular and provide accessible power and data connections.

The UGV must support integration and collaboration within networked operational environments and be interoperable with current and future command and control systems. The solution must provide open and exposed APIs for integration with common control and mission autonomy applications.

Interested parties have until 28 April to respond. Learn more at www.sam.gov

Photo above: A Hunter Wolf unmanned ground vehicle assigned to Charlie Battery, 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Mobile Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), holds a steady overwatch position with a mounted remote operated .50-caliber machine gun during a combat simulation exercise at the Joint Readiness Training Center, Fort Polk, Louisiana, April 13, 2026. (US Army photo by MSG Anthony Hewitt)

Posted in Army, Mobility, Robotics | 1 Comment »

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