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USMC Announces 0315 Scout MOS

July 1st, 2026

WASHINGTON, DC —

MARADMIN 296/26 announced the creation of a new primary military occupational specialty (PMOS), 0315 Scout, to provide infantry battalions and light armored reconnaissance battalions with a dedicated, all-weather reconnaissance and surveillance capability. This change, effective 1 October 2026, is part of the Marine Corps’ broader Force Design modernization efforts to create a more agile and lethal force prepared for future operating environments.

U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Combat Team Scout Platoon, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, add vegetation to their ghillie suits for company attacks during exercise Bougainville III at Pohakuloa Training Area, Feb. 10, 2024. Bougainville III is a 3d LCT live-fire exercise focused on decentralized operations to prepare the battalion to command and control forces from dispersed locations. Scout platoons provide precision marksmanship and increased reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities to infantry companies and battalions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Grace Gerlach)

The new 0315 Scouts will populate a 26-Marine Scout Platoon within each infantry battalion and the Scout Teams within the light armored reconnaissance battalion. This purpose-built force is optimized for ground-based reconnaissance, surveillance, and battlespace shaping, providing battalion commanders with a dedicated, multidomain sensing platoon. The creation of this specialized MOS was driven by extensive live-force experimentation, which highlighted the need for a dedicated formation at the battalion level to collect timely and accurate information on the enemy and the operating environment.

“The establishment of the 0315 Scout MOS is a critical step in the modernization of our infantry battalions,” said Lt. Gen. Jay M. Bargeron, Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations. “This professional, purpose-built force will provide commanders with the organic reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities essential for success on the future battlefield. These Scouts will be our eyes and ears, extending our sensing capabilities and enabling commanders to make faster, more effective decisions to win our nation’s battles.”

Scout Platoons are equipped with advanced optics, communications suites, sensors, and unmanned systems to extend their observation range and persist in the battlespace. Each team within the platoon includes a Joint Fires Observer (JFO) trained to coordinate and control surface-to-surface and air-delivered fires, enabling the platoon to shape the battlefield and enhance the battalion’s lethality and resilience.

The training for 0315 Scouts is rigorous, building upon foundational infantry skills with a specialized course in ground reconnaissance, surveillance, and communications. This dedicated career path ensures the Marine Corps can deliberately manage, develop, and retain talent, creating a community of experts with the advanced skills required for complex scouting missions.

Posted in Profession of Arms, USMC | No Comments »

Heaviside MOTH Ruggedized Tactical Spectrum Analyzer

July 1st, 2026

I ran across the MOTH Ruggedized Tactical Spectrum Analyzer in the ADS booth of all places. I was slacking along and I saw a small, hand-sized spectrum analyzer out of the corner of my eye and the EW nerd part of my brain took over.

It incorporates Direction Finding Mode, Real-Time Signal Oscillation, vibration notifications, and built-in GPS.

Features:

5 MHz–6 GHz detection range
Low Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP): Weighs just 0.99 lbs with the battery and measures 5.78″ x 3.3″ x 1.8″
Rugged handheld + vest-portable design
ATAK integration
Rated IP67 for water and dust resistance, operating effectively between 14ºF and 131ºF

The MOTH Ruggedized Tactical Spectrum Analyzer is a simple, easy to use spectrum analyzer that can be used by Cyber ElectroMagnetic Activities professionals for tip and cue but it can also be used by anyone who may require frequency use and line of bearing information on signals of interest such as counter drone.

Priced under $5000 it’s practically disposable when you compare it in price to other systems out there.

Manufactured by Heaviside, it’s available from Lumenier.

Posted in CEMA, EW, SOF Week | 1 Comment »

KS Sport ‘Counter Terror’ Boots Pre-Sale Is Live

July 1st, 2026

Based on the famous Adidas GSG-9 assault boots of the Pre-GWOT-era, Kommando Store has launched a pre-sale of their new KS Sport ‘Counter Terror’ Boots!

You get the look of the original with some major pluses that address issues users have faced in the past:

They are Available

They are Durable with a full leather upper

They Feature a Wide Toe Box

I wore out my last pair years ago but they made some great trips with me before they gave up the ghost. Here’s a photo of me as part of JTF-510 in Zamboanga, Philippines in the spring of 2002. We would become JSOTF-P under OEF-P.

For those of you unfamiliar with this iconic boot you can learn more in this video.

Expected to land in September, secure your pair(s) now. I have two pair on order myself.

Pre-order yours at kommandostore.com

Posted in Advertiser, Boots | 3 Comments »

AFGSC, JIATF-401 Conduct Multi-Command C-sUAS Qualification at Camp Guernsey

July 1st, 2026

CAMP GUERNSEY JOINT TRAINING CENTER, Wyo. —

Airmen from the 90th Missile Wing joined personnel from Air Force Global Strike Command, Air Combat Command, U.S. Strategic Command and the Air National Guard for a counter-small unmanned aircraft systems firing qualification conducted in partnership with Joint Interagency Task Force 401, May 14-15.

As the battlefield continues to evolve, tactics, techniques and procedures must adapt alongside emerging threats. One of the most rapidly developing areas is the C-sUAS environment, where technology, training and operational requirements are evolving quickly.

In August 2025, the Department of War established JIATF-401 as the department’s lead organization for synchronizing efforts to rapidly deliver C-sUAS capabilities at scale to defend the homeland, protect U.S. and allied forces, defend critical infrastructure and assist federal agencies. JIATF-401 has one measure of effectiveness: rapidly delivering state-of-the-art C-sUAS capabilities to warfighters at home and abroad.

The two-day firing qualification tested and enhanced operators’ ability to engage ground and aerial targets at varying distances using technologically advanced small arms target acquisition systems.

“Protecting our power projection platforms is a critical component of enhancing warfighter lethality,” said Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, director of JIATF-401. “I am grateful for the partnership with the 90th Missile Wing, Air Combat Command, and Air Force Global Strike Command that is enhancing C-sUAS training to keep our warfighters, installations and critical assets safe from drone threats.”

Beyond supporting department-level C-sUAS objectives, the qualification also provided 90th MW personnel with hands-on experience using emerging capabilities that support AFGSC’s broader modernization efforts and strengthen the wing’s national security mission.

The C-sUAS qualification comes as AFGSC continues to modernize the tools and platforms that support missile field security and nuclear deterrence. With the transition from Up-Armored High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles, commonly known as Humvees, to Joint Light Tactical Vehicles, and the replacement of UH-1N Hueys with MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters, the command is adapting its capabilities to meet current and future security demands. C-sUAS training represents another layer of that modernization, preparing defenders to counter emerging unmanned threats to critical assets, personnel and the intercontinental ballistic missile mission.

“The system is a game changer,” said Col. Jeremy Sheppard, 90th Security Forces Group commander. “When you hear one of our young defenders say they feel more confident and prepared, that’s the metric that matters most to me as a commander. That confidence born from having the best tools and training, translates directly into a more lethal and decisive force on the ground. This isn’t just about fielding new technology; it’s a direct investment from our major command in our most critical weapon system: the individual defender. We are sharpening the spear at every level, and this is what it looks like.

For the Airmen who participated, the qualification offered direct experience with systems designed to counter emerging threats and improve defender readiness in operational environments

“This training makes me more effective by giving me hands-on experience with systems designed to counter hostile drones,” said Senior Airman Preston Reiger, 90th Missile Security Operations Squadron sUAS/C-sUAS specialist. “It shows the wing is taking C-sUAS seriously and actively building another layer of defense to protect our mission, assets and personnel.”

The C-sUAS firing qualification provided practical experience with capabilities designed to meet an evolving threat environment. Through continued collaboration with C-sUAS organizations like JIATF-401, the 90th MW is strengthening its ability to defend the nation’s ICBM mission today while preparing for the security challenges of tomorrow.

Story and photos by SSgt Michael A. Richmond

90th Missile Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, C-UAS, Guest Post | No Comments »

Rocket Lab to Acquire Iridium in Historic Deal, Creating A Fully Vertically Integrated Space Powerhouse Primed for Growth

June 30th, 2026

Unites Rocket Lab’s leading launch and satellite manufacturing capabilities with Iridium’s global network, spectrum, and experience to unlock critical space applications.

Adds material revenue scale and is significantly accretive to Rocket Lab’s cash flow generation and profitability.

Long Beach, California and McLean, Virginia. 29 June 2026 – Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab”), a global leader in launch and space systems and Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM) (“Iridium”), a leading provider of global voice, data, and positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) satellite services, today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Rocket Lab will acquire Iridium. Rocket Lab will acquire all the outstanding shares of Iridium common stock for $54 per share in a cash and stock transaction. This represents an enterprise value for Iridium of approximately $8.0 billion.

The acquisition will be one of the most transformative deals in the space industry, joining together two innovative American companies to play a leading role in the U.S. space economy. It merges Rocket Lab’s leading launch capabilities and satellite manufacturing with Iridium’s global satellite communications network, spectrum, and 500-plus strong partner ecosystem to create a competitive, vertically-integrated space company that designs, builds, launches, and operates its own constellations, delivering critical communications capability to millions of users worldwide.

The transaction will give Rocket Lab an immediate foothold in space-based applications, including both proprietary and standards-based satellite Internet of Things (IoT) and direct-to-device (D2D), PNT, and critical safety-of-life services, creating a formidable challenger in the global telecom market. Rather than simply continuing the Iridium network, Rocket Lab will build upon it to scale into untapped markets and pioneer new space-based services to the benefit of global customers.

Iridium’s globally harmonized L-band spectrum and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network provide a secure, resilient foundation for reliable satellite communications and PNT services across government, defense, aviation, maritime, and commercial markets. Supporting more than 2.55 million active subscribers worldwide, Iridium delivers highly reliable, weather-resilient connectivity and an alternative PNT architecture for applications where Global Positioning Systema (GPS) and other Global Navigation Satellite Systema (GNSS) are degraded or unavailable. Combining Rocket Lab’s launch, spacecraft manufacturing, and space systems expertise with Iridium’s global network and L-band spectrum will accelerate innovation, positioning the combined company to support the development and deployment of Iridium’s next-generation constellation. This includes direct-to-device (D2D/Iridium NTN DirectSM) services, which will grow into an important new capability for U.S. national security and emergency response, helping to ensure reliable, resilient communications when and where they are needed most, particularly where traditional networks are unavailable or compromised.

“This is a defining moment for the space industry and the start of a new era of strategic, accelerated growth for Rocket Lab and Iridium,” said Sir Peter Beck, founder and CEO of Rocket Lab. “Iridium has built the gold standard in secure, safety critical global satellite connectivity. It is relied upon by maritime fleets, the aviation industry, governments, and heavy industrial organizations who operate in the most remote off-the-grid locations. By marrying Iridium’s deep heritage, trusted infrastructure, and highly sought-after spectrum with Rocket Lab’s extensive and proven launch and manufacturing capabilities, we have the capability to unlock entirely new markets. We will go far beyond maintaining a legacy; we are going to build upon it to pioneer next-generation space applications and deliver sought-after capabilities to existing and new customers.”

“As the worlds of space and terrestrial communications continue to converge, more critical services will depend on space-based capabilities,” said Matt Desch, CEO, Iridium. “Success will come from those who can bring new innovations to space quickly and sustain them over time as efficiently as possible. We’re excited about being able to accelerate the next generation of IoT, aviation, maritime, PNT, and national security capabilities, and pursue new innovative applications as part of Rocket Lab – a fully integrated, end-to-end space company. That’s an incredible opportunity for our customers, partners, employees, and stockholders.”

Transaction Highlights:

Strengthens Rocket Lab’s Strategic Vertical Integration: Creates an end-to-end space company spanning launch, spacecraft, spectrum, and on-orbit communications services through a proprietary network. Expected to eliminate third-party launch costs for constellation deployment and replenishment and captures launch margin internally while guaranteeing orbital access as launch capacity tightens, ensuring continuity of service to customers.

Unlocks Entry to Space Applications Market: Provides Rocket Lab with immediate access to a proven constellation of LEO satellites and an established global communications customer base, realizing the company’s long-term strategic vision to expand beyond launch services and spacecraft manufacturing into a vertically-integrated space applications company with recurring revenue from satellite services.

Provides Access to Globally-Coordinated Spectrum: Adds globally-coordinated L-band spectrum that enables reliable user communications.

Unifies Two Trusted Government Partners: The transaction combines two deeply trusted, long-standing defense partners, combining their specialized strengths to deliver highly resilient, next-generation capabilities directly to the warfighter across denied, degraded, and disadvantaged environments.

Accelerates Growth and New Market Opportunities: Positions the combined entity to deliver next-generation satellite communications, resilient PNT, and emerging defense and commercial space services.

Diversifies Financial Profile with Recurring Cash Flow Streams: In 2025, Iridium delivered $871.7M revenue1, $495M OEBITDA[1] or 57% OEBITDA margin1, providing substantial recurring cash flow to fund growth.

Transaction Details

Under the terms of the transaction, Iridium stockholders will receive $27.00 in cash and a number of shares of Rocket Lab common stock calculated pursuant to an exchange ratio (subject to a collar) for each share of Iridium common stock outstanding at the closing. The collar is banded from $67.50 to $112.50. The transaction has a notional value of $54.00 per share of Iridium common stock, implying an enterprise value for Iridium of approximately $8.0 billion.

Complete details on the calculation of the exchange ratio will be in the transaction agreement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The transaction is expected to be completed in mid-2027, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including approval of Iridium stockholders and required regulatory approvals.

The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of Iridium and Rocket Lab. Moreover, each director of Iridium holding shares of Iridium common stock has entered into a voting agreement to support the transaction.

As part of the transaction, Rocket Lab has received commitments for a $3.6 billion 364-day senior secured bridge term loan facility from Deutsche Bank and Wells Fargo. Rocket Lab intends to fund the cash component of the transaction through a combination of cash from its balance sheet and other debt and equity financing sources.

Advisors

Deutsche Bank Securities is serving as lead financial advisor and Wells Fargo and PJT Partners as financial advisors, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C. is serving as legal counsel, Goodwin Procter LLP as financing counsel and DLA Piper LLP as regulatory counsel to Rocket Lab. Evercore is serving as exclusive financial advisor, Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is serving as legal counsel, Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP is serving as regulatory counsel, and Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher is serving as strategic communications advisor to Iridium.

Investor Presentation

An investor presentation discussing the transaction is hosted on Rocket Lab’s investor relations website at investors.rocketlabcorp.com.

Posted in Admin, Comms, Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

Fix It Sticks Benchtop Tool Tray System Now Available

June 30th, 2026

Fix It Sticks Introduces Superior Tray Organizers and Benchtop Tool Tray System to Maximize Gunsmithing EfficiencyChicago, IL- Fix It Sticks, the industry innovator of modular firearms maintenance tools and torque limiters has introduced an innovative and efficient line of Tray Organizers and a Benchtop Tool Tray System for organizing, accessing, and using gunsmithing bits and tools. Having the right tools in hand is necessary for correctly torquing rifle actions, optics mounts, scope rings, sights, and other accessories. Properly torquing the rifle action and other components is critical for consistency, accuracy, and reliability.

The Fix It Sticks Benchtop Tool Tray System is designed to bring efficiency to any work bench, in particular for firearms related building, setup, and maintenance setups. The system features a four-slot storage rack to store the new Fix It Sticks Tray Organizers. The trays are modular, allowing the user to customize the access and workflow. This also lets users easily keep essential tools and parts accessible and organized with six dedicated bit trays—each featuring 44 1/4” slots for an extensive bit and tool selection—alongside three open parts trays perfect for keeping small hardware and components sorted. The Benchtop Tray System is made from sturdy, chemical resistant ABS polymer and aluminum for strength and durability while also keeping weight to a minimum.

Each Fix It Sticks Tray Organizer comes with the Tray, a pair of Bit Trays, and a Parts Tray. These can be used individually or with the Benchtop Tool Tray System. These are also made with chemical resistant ABS polymer.

The Benchtop Tray System and individual Tray Organizers are perfect for any gunsmithing task and will dramatically increase organization, efficiency and prevent the loss of small yet critical components. The Benchtop Tray System is now available with an MSRP of $152.00 and the individual trays are now available with an MSRP of $30.00.

store.fixitsticks.com

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | No Comments »

Dates Announced for 2027 Canadian National Counter-UAS Conference

June 30th, 2026

Save the date for the 2027 Canadian National Counter-UAS Conference, taking place April 8–9, 2027 in Ottawa, Ontario. Building on the success of this year’s event, which brought together over 200 participants from 83 organizations across Canada and the United States, we are excited to continue fostering the strong national and international collaboration that emerged. With broad representation from policing, intelligence, military, government, critical infrastructure, academia, and industry, the conference has become a key platform for advancing a unified approach to counter-UAS challenges. In advance of the conference, we are pleased to welcome Retired U.S. Army Colonel Bill Edwards, a recognized leader in C-UAS operations and training, who will deliver specialized training sessions on April 6–7.

We look forward to welcoming partners back to further strengthen relationships, share expertise, and drive coordinated strategies to address the evolving threat landscape in 2027.

www.kingstonpolice.ca/news-and-community/2027-canadian-national-cuas-conference

Posted in C-UAS, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Dates Announced for 2027 Canadian National Counter-UAS Conference

5.11 Expands Professional Services Line with Premium, Performance-Driven Scrubs Designed for Healthcare Professionals

June 30th, 2026

Costa Mesa, Calif. (June 30, 2026) – For healthcare professionals, every shift brings responsibility. Long hours. Constant movement. Critical decisions. Moments where performance, comfort, and reliability matter more than ever.

To support the demands of that work, 5.11, the global innovator of purpose-built apparel, footwear, and gear, is proud to announce the launch of its new line of high-performance medical scrubs designed specifically for nurses and frontline healthcare professionals.

Built on decades of experience designing apparel for professionals whose work demands durability, mobility, and reliability, the new collection brings that same commitment to healthcare settings nationwide. The launch marks another major expansion of 5.11’s growing Professional Services category, enabling hospitals and healthcare systems to outfit a wide range of roles—from security teams and EMS personnel to environmental services staff, administrators, and now frontline medical professionals.

“Healthcare professionals don’t choose the easy path. They choose a profession built on service and showing up for others when it matters most. At 5.11, we believe growth lives on the other side of challenge. That’s what Challenge Possible™ means. It’s why we’re proud to build purpose-built gear for healthcare professionals who live that belief every single day.” Troy Brown, CEO of 5.11

Created for professionals who move toward responsibility when others need them most, the collection is designed to support movement, endurance, and confidence when the work becomes difficult. 5.11’s new medical apparel system was developed alongside healthcare professionals whose firsthand experiences helped shape a collection built to meet the demands of modern healthcare—long shifts, constant movement, and the need for comfort, confidence, and durability throughout the workday.

Designed to support long shifts and high-movement workflows without sacrificing comfort or professionalism, the collection features lightweight stretch fabrics, moisture-wicking technology, antimicrobial properties, and ripstop durability engineered to extend garment life. Thoughtfully designed for everyday wear, the garments help reduce wrinkling and maintain a polished appearance throughout demanding shifts. The line includes short-sleeve tops and both regular and jogger-fit pant options for men and women across six hospital-approved colorways, including Pacific Navy, Black, Ciel Blue, Royal Blue, Storm, and Burgundy.

The new 5.11 scrubs line is available now through participating hospital partners, select wholesale distributors, and online at www.511tactical.com/511-scrubs.

Posted in Clothing, Medical, Press Release | No Comments »