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Colt Optics Launches VMR Series Riflescope

April 13th, 2026

Michigan (April 13, 2026) – Colt Electro Optics LLC(“Colt Optics”) hereby announces the release its first products, the VMR series riflescopes.

Colt Optics was founded in Michigan in 2024 by a group of optics industry veterans and the Colt CZ Group in order to design and build professional grade products. At Colt Optics, we believe the equipment you rely on should never be the weak link. Whether in the field, on the range, or in critical moments, shooters need optics they can trust without hesitation. That is why every Colt Optics system is developed by our Michigan-based team of optics industry professionals, bringing together decades of real-world shooting experience and proven engineering discipline.

“We have built an engineering and product team with deep industry experience to produce high caliber optics that we will stand behind with our lifetime warranty and unwavering support for our customers,” said Dennis Finnegan, COO of Colt Optics.

From concept through validation, each optic is engineered with quality assurance in the United States, with a relentless focus on performance, durability, and consistency. Just as importantly, our products are shaped by the people who use them, refined through continuous feedback from professional and commercial shooters to ensure every detail delivers when it matters most.

The Colt Optics VMR series riflescopes are built to give shooters the confidence to perform in demanding environments. Whether engaging at distance or operating under pressure, the VMR series delivers the clarity, durability, and consistency required to stay focused on the shot, not the equipment.

With precision-engineered optics, rugged mechanical construction, and disciplined testing behind every system, each VMR scope is designed to hold zero, track accurately, and maintain performance when it matters most. The VMR series is available in 1-8x, 3-18x, and 4.5-27x configurations to support a wide range of mission and shooting applications.

“We set out to build riflescopes that shooters can rely on without question, regardless of the environment or mission,” said Jon Meyer, Vice President of Product Developmentfor Colt Optics. “The VMR series reflects that focus on performance, durability, and real-world usability.”

VMR 1-8×28

The VMR 1-8×28 is built for shooters who need to move fast without sacrificing control. At 1x, it delivers a clear, intuitive sight picture that supports rapid target acquisition in close-quarters environments. As magnification increases, it provides the precision needed for more deliberate engagements without forcing the shooter to compromise.

Designed for real-world use, the optic emphasizes a forgiving eye box and consistent sight picture to reduce friction during transitions and maintain speed under pressure. Whether engaging at distance or working in confined spaces, it allows the shooter to stay focused on the target, not the optic.

Available in MRAD and MOA configurations, it features a 34mm one-piece 6061 aluminum tube, low-profile capped turrets, and an illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings. Powered by a CR2032 battery rated for 575 hours at mid-setting, it is built for reliable, field-ready performance.

VMR 3-18×44

The VMR 3-18x is built for shooters who need one optic to perform across a wide range of conditions and distances without compromise. Whether engaging closer targets or stretching out for precision work, it provides the clarity and control needed to stay effective in any environment.

Designed for real-world use, it delivers a balanced combination of magnification, usability, and repeatable performance. The system is built to maintain a consistent sight picture, track accurately, and hold zero, giving shooters the confidence to make precise corrections and stay on target when it matters most.

With rugged mechanical construction, advanced optical performance, and disciplined testing behind every system, the VMR 3-18x is engineered to perform reliably under demanding conditions. It is built for professionals and serious shooters who rely on their equipment to deliver consistent results, not occasional performance.

The VMR 3-18x features the HXT-58 reticle, designed for precision shooting applications, with a refined center aiming point that minimizes target obstruction while maintaining exact point-of-aim control.

VMR 4.5-27×56

The VMR 4.5-27x is built for shooters who demand precise, repeatable performance at distance. When small errors matter and conditions are less than ideal, it delivers the clarity and consistency required to make confident, accountable shots.

Designed to support long-range engagements, the system emphasizes reliable tracking, consistent return to zero, and a stable sight picture across the full magnification range. Every adjustment is meant to be trusted, allowing shooters to make corrections with confidence and stay focused on execution.

A forgiving eye box and consistent eye relief support fast target acquisition from a variety of shooting positions, while precision-machined internals ensure exact lens alignment and dependable adjustments. Rugged mechanical and electronic systems are built to withstand harsh environments, maintain zero under recoil, and perform through repeated impacts.

The VMR 4.5-27x features the HXT-28 reticle, designed for precision-focused shooting, with a fine center aiming point that enables exact engagement of small or distant targets.

Our 1-8x and 3-18x VMR series riflescopes will be available to purchase from retailers in the next few weeks, with our 4.5-27x coming later this summer. Please visit www.coltoptics.com for more information.

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

USMC Awards Gentex Contract for Integrated Helmet Systems

April 13th, 2026

The Department of War made the following announcement on Friday, 10 April, 2026 at COB;

Gentex Corp., Simpson, Pennsylvania, is awarded a $128,484,849 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the Integrated Helmet Systems. This contract provides for the procurement of Integrated Helmet Systems with associated components and accessories. The ordering period will be a maximum of five years and is expected to be completed in April 2031. Work will be performed in Simpson, Pennsylvania. No funds will be obligated at time of award. Funds will be obligated on individual task/delivery orders as they are issued. The requirement was procured under the authority of 10 U.S. Code 4022(f) as a follow-on production agreement to the prototype agreement (M67854-20-9-1000). Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Virginia, is the contracting activity (M67854-26-D-5401).

I’d like to remind readers that Galvion was also issued a contract by the Marine Corps for this program last August for $131,396,296. Both contracts are Indefinite Quantity Indefinite Delivery (IDIQ).

This program has been underway for quite some time. To give you an idea, the photo was taken of the Gentex helmet in May of 2022.

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, Helmets, USMC | No Comments »

BFG Monday: The Hidden Weight That’s Destroying Our Warfighters

April 13th, 2026

Injuries in the lower back and limbs “are attributed primarily to running and foot marching long distances with heavy loads”according to an article by U.S. Medicine. At Blue Force Gear (“BFG”), we understand that every gram – yes, every single gram – counts. That’s why we developed our patented Helium Whisper MOLLE pouch attachment system over a decade ago that drastically reduces weight and streamlines the back panel design to eliminate potential manufacturing failures many Soldiers, Marines, and Airmen are familiar with.

Photo credit: Army SPC Juan Perez

Though revolutionary for their time, legacy MOLLE pouch attachment systems are simply heavier than our newer technology. The back panels alone require more than 25 separate components (snaps, stiffeners, multiple sewn layers of fabric and webbing) to attach a single pouch to a vest or plate carrier(compared to a similar BFG Helium Whisper pouch). Every one of those components adds weight. Every sewn seam and metal snap is a potential failure point waiting to manifest at the worst possible moment.

Helium Whisper replaces all of those parts with a single laser-cut piece of proprietary ULTRACOMP high-performance fabric facing laminate. The result is a system built from just 6 parts that cuts the attachment system weight by as much as 50% compared to legacy alternatives. Fewer parts mean fewer opportunities for something to break, corrode, or come apart and the laser precise design eliminates backers that are out of spec. The attachment straps are integral to the backer itself, with no sewn seams to fail or tear away. When a pouch is placed under tension, Helium Whisper tightens its grip rather than pulling apart.

The math is simple: a warfighter running full kit of legacy MOLLE pouches is carrying a significant and entirely unnecessary weight penalty, extra ounces on every pouch can add up to 3 to 5 pounds across a full Rifleman loadout. Those pounds punish knees, destroy backs, and slow down the men and women who cannot afford to be slowed down. Helium Whisper doesn’t just cut weight, it saves lives.

To learn more about how your unit can increase lethality and survivability and drastically reduce load carriage weight, contact the BFG Military Department or visit BlueForceGear.com.

About Blue Force Gear®

Widely known for supplying the world’s best weapon slings, Blue Force Gear also leads the lightweight load carriage equipment revolution with Ten-Speed multi-use pouches, MOLLEminus platforms, and their patented Helium Whisper attachment system. Their proprietary ULTRACOMP high-performance coated fabric laminate material, unrivaled innovation, attention to detail, and obsession with reducing weight sets Blue Force Gear apart from others in the tactical equipment industry. Blue Force Gear is a Great Place to Work Certified Company. For more information on products, proprietary technologies, or how BFG continues to reduce weight for the warfighter, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

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

US Army Yuma Proving Ground Showcases Latest Airdrop Technology in Large Demonstration

April 13th, 2026

U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground’s Yuma Test Center (YTC) demonstrated the most cutting-edge developments of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center (DEVCOM SC) for an entire week in March.

More than 300 participants from the United States and 11 different partner nations attended the event, necessitating a massive effort by YTC personnel to accommodate the visitors.

“At least 100 people at YPG have played a role in planning or executing this mission,” said Edgar Hurtado, Air Delivery Branch Team Lead. “There are a couple of technologies that we are seeing for the first time, but really we wanted to showcase this to the U.S. and partner nations.”

The wide array of cutting-edge cargo and personnel parachute technologies brought a significant number of personnel from the airdrop community together in one place to exchange ideas. Virtually all of these systems have undergone extensive testing at YPG, or will be soon, particularly in the realm of powered cargo systems.

“There are a lot of aerial denial capabilities by adversary forces,” said Hurtado. “When we have forces within an aerial denial bubble, it gets hard to resupply them with ammo, food, water, and equipment. The idea is to drop something outside of that bubble and have that powered system fly into there and resupply our troops with accuracy.”

Personnel parachutes were an important aspect of the demonstration as well.

“We’ve been working on a project for interoperability between the U.S. T-11 main parachute and the European A400M transport plane,” said Hurtado. “For this big test week, we invited a lot of international partners to showcase the interoperability that we already have. The Army already has safety confirmations for the Low Velocity Airdrop System platforms for heavy equipment like vehicles and fuel blivets and Container Delivery System that often contains food, ammo, and water.”

“We’re in the middle of making a new update to the T-11 personnel parachute,” added Lt. Col. Kevin Hicks, YTC Commander. “We demonstrated a mass tactical exit of an aircraft on two days. We have glide modifications, long-range GPS-guided delivery packages: you name it, we have it.”

Yet YPG’s size alone does not account for its elite standing in the air delivery community: While other ranges might have the air space to conduct an event like this, they are not specifically designed to do it with the infrastructure and standard operating procedures to coordinate multiple sorties safely.

“We have a one kilometer by seven kilometer drop zone that doesn’t exist anywhere else in the country,” said Ross Gwynn, YPG Technical Director. “All of the instrumentation coupled with that can collect all the data testers need in an experiment. Within the decelerator community, YPG is at the tip of the spear in advancing those capabilities and providing the performance data that they need to continue iterating.”

The demonstration site consisted of a set of bleachers under an awning and several large tents, all overlooking an immensely desolate drop zone bordered by distant mountains. As each system was demonstrated, narrators addressed the crowd over a loudspeaker. With multiple sorties per day, each with multiple airdrop passes, spectators did not want for parachute action. The event provided a prime opportunity for engineers and military officers from different allied nations to discuss the state-of-the-art technology, both for inspiration and to avoid unnecessary duplication of existing ideas.

“This demonstration is really showcasing where the Army is moving when it comes to contested and congested logistics,” said Hicks. “It’s ensuring we’re putting out the best kit to the warfighters that we can.”

By Mark Schauer

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

Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Events Encourage Mobility for Formerly Paralyzed Veteran

April 12th, 2026

SNOWMASS, Colo. – The year was 2021, and U.S. Army Veteran Andrew Carpenter was brimming with contentment. He was building a career as a software account executive and embracing life in the ever-changing, yet illuminated daze of first-time parenthood.

Then without warning, everything changed. After 15 years of military service and overseeing countless tactical aircraft missions, Carpenter had grown accustomed to unpredictability. But there was nothing that could have prepared him for the abrupt reality of being paralyzed.

“It pretty much came on suddenly. I got numbness and tingling in my fingers and toes, and that turned into a weakness in my arms and muscles,” Carpenter shared. “Then I woke up one morning, and I couldn’t move anything.”

Carpenter was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder that tricks the body’s immune system into attacking its own nerves.

Immediately following the onset of his paralysis, Carpenter was rushed to emergency surgery. He experienced a week-long coma to perform life-saving interventions, followed by two months as an inpatient at United Hospital in Minneapolis, and four months of inpatient care at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center.

“It was pretty scary. Once the paralysis let up in a certain area, every time I tried to move it was complete pain, because the protective coating around the nerves was all eaten away by this syndrome,” Carpenter shared.

Recovery was grueling. The former aviation operation specialist found himself relearning how to walk and talk, while also managing a traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, and back and neck injuries from his time in service.

“It felt like being imprisoned,” Carpenter shared. “My son was six months at the time, so it was very important for me to get home and be able to see his first birthday.”

His routine of total independence had been upended by intensive therapy and constant evaluations, but the former Resiliency Trainer was not easily deterred. Early in his recovery, he asked his physical therapist if there was more he could do. That’s when he discovered the Winter Sports Clinic.

“My physical therapist said as long as you got the attitude that you’re going to do it, then we’ll make sure you can get up and down the hill,” Carpenter said. “These [adaptive sports events] where you can really push your body have been just incredible.”

Five years later, Carpenter has regained most of his mobility. Now, during his fifth consecutive trip to “Miracle Mountain,” Carpenter pushed for more independence by training on a mono ski – which is a single, wide ski that allows the rider to position both feet side-by-side and face forward while maneuvering downhill.

“When I found out you can be on the mono ski and go down by yourself on the chairlift, that really got me excited,” Carpenter said.

Carpenter’s positive disposition is both innate and earned, but he wants fellow Veterans to know that, regardless of their current outlook, there is something to be gained on the mountainside.

“Just push yourself and see what can happen,” Carpenter said. “[Recovering] has been a rough time, but [there are] other people who are here at the clinic and have gone through similar things. We all have our own story, and it’s been really great to connect with so many people.”

Posted in Press Release, Veterans | No Comments »

Gun Tote’n Mamas Announces Partnership with Charter Arms

April 12th, 2026

NORTHBROOK, Ill. – April 8, 2026 – Award-winning Gun Tote’n Mamas® (GTM), the leading provider of women’s protection solutions, is excited to announce its partnership with Charter Arms Manufacturing, an American revolver manufacturing company. GTM will showcase its latest concealed carry handbags and everyday protection solutions designed by women, for women.

GTM has been setting the industry standard for quality concealed carry handbags since 2009. This ultimately reflects its commitment to offering reasonably priced, high quality and multi-tasking concealed carry bags without compromising on design, construction and leather quality. GTM handbags are loved by firearm instructors, law enforcement and security personnel (men and women). GTM takes pride in the extensive testing conducted by instructors across the country to ensure the concealed carry leather bags meet the highest standards for ease of draw and functionality. Gun Tote’n Mamas rigorously tests each concealed carry leather handbag using leading firearms.

“We couldn’t be more excited about our new partnership with Gun Tote’n Mamas,” said Nick Ecker, owner, president and CEO of Charter Arms. “Their high-quality firearm handbags, designed for women, are second to none. We looked long and hard for the right partner for this and, based on their quality, style, price point, and the fact they are designed by women for women, we know they are the best fit.”

GTM’s most popular designs and new arrivals are available to shop now with Charter Arms. Including the new Clutch Concealed Carry Purse Distressed Buffalo GTM-CZY/22, released in December of 2025. These styles reflect trending silhouettes paired with discreet concealed carry features built into premium leather handbags. The bags featured were specifically selected by industry professionals as they fit Charter Arms firearms. To shop this curated collection, visit Charter Arms’ Accessory Store.

As a longtime champion of women’s protection, Gun Tote’n Mamas remains committed to creating functional, stylish solutions that support confidence and preparedness. Charter Arms provides an opportunity to highlight that mission while connecting with consumers and industry professionals from around the world.

GTM remains committed to prioritizing women’s protection. For more information, visit gtmoriginal.com or call 847-446-0700 Ext. 105.

Posted in Firearms, For the Ladies, Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

AI Bootcamp Readies Air Commandos for Next-Gen Advantage

April 12th, 2026

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —

Air Force Special Operations Command has begun hosting AI Bootcamps, a pioneering training course designed to arm servicemembers with the skills to ethically and effectively integrate artificial intelligence into their daily duties.

The course stems from the command’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies to maintain a competitive advantage in an increasingly complex operating environment. The goal of the initiative is to empower Air Commandos to utilize AI tools, streamlining procedural processes and tasks to reclaim valuable time for mission-critical responsibilities.

“The AFSOC AI Bootcamp was created out of a forward-thinking effort to prepare our servicemembers for an AI-integrated environment,” said Dr. Christina Parker, AFSOC chief learning officer. “We accomplish this by identifying and addressing concerns of using AI; identifying AI appropriate tasks; highlighting “Human in the Loop” strategies and techniques; and providing highly practical, hands-on application training.”

As part of practical application practice, students are taught how to assign the AI system a role to play for accomplishing an identified task.

“AI can serve as a ‘brainstormer’ to move past the ‘blank page’ problem, a ‘translator’ to reformat data and adjust the tone of materials, a ‘red teamer’ to identify weaknesses in a plan, and even a ‘tutor’ to break down complex topics for upskilling,” said Parker.

The course was designed to create a bridge the knowledge gap on generative AI systems, creating a baseline understanding for users no matter their experience level.

“It’s rare to leave a one-day course feeling you’ve gained a truly foundational understanding of something so transformative,” said a course participant. This wasn’t just another training day; this felt mission critical.”

AFSOC’s prioritization of AI integration began in September 2025 with the establishment a standalone A9 directorate, with a mission focused on data, AI, analytics, and assessments.

“We were tasked with designing this training in November 2025,” said Parker. “When the Secretary of War’s ‘Harness Artificial Intelligence’ memorandum was released in December, we were already positioned to execute.”

Parker states AFSOC’s proactive stance in designing, developing, and delivering the AI training has led higher headquarters and other commands across the Joint Force to reach out to request her team’s materials for review and use.

Through this forward-leaning approach, AFSOC is not just initiating the charge for mass AI adoption but is actively building the framework to teach servicemembers how to rapidly integrate these capabilities. This initiative positions them at the forefront of shaping how the Joint Force will team up with artificial intelligence.

“The primary goal is for every servicemember to have the mindset that AI is not a replacement, but a powerful teammate,” said Parker.

By Capt Brandon DeBlanc

Air Force Special Operations Command

Posted in AI / ML, Air Force, Guest Post, SOF, Training | No Comments »

IWI US Releases the ARAD 5 to the United States from their New Home: Battle-Proven Performance Meets Tennessee-Made Excellence

April 11th, 2026

ANDERSONVILLE, TN – April 10, 2026 – IWI US, a leader in innovative firearms manufacturing, is proud to announce the official launch of the ARAD 5. Born from a direct request by Israel’s Tier 1 military and law enforcement teams, the ARAD 5 delivers unwavering reliability in extreme environments. Having already seen extensive service and success on the global stage, the ARAD 5 is now being brought to the forefront of the American market through IWI US’s expanded domestic operations in Andersonville, TN.

The IWI ARAD 5 is a hybrid blend of proven systems, seamlessly merged into a modern rifle. Built within a semi-monolithic upper receiver the patented IWI CamLok barrel lock-up mechanism secures the floated barrel assembly and two-position short stroke piston gas system. The ARAD 5 is purpose-built for both suppressed and unsuppressed use, adapting to the needs of the modern mission set. This upper mates to a familiar lower, fire controls will be right where any M4-style rifle user expects them.

“The IWI US ARAD 5 isn’t just another M4-style rifle—it is yet another example of our commitment to those who demand more from their gear,” said Jeremy Gresham, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at IWI US.

This introduction coincides with a transformative era for IWI US. Following a strategic relocation to Tennessee, the company has made massive investments in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and specialized personnel. The move, the investments, and this US launch are the next steps in our evolution.

A Commitment to Excellence

The move to Tennessee represents more than just a change of address; it is a multimillion-dollar investment in the future of American firearm manufacturing, bringing high-quality jobs and advanced production capabilities to the region.

About IWI US

IWI US, Inc. is a subsidiary of Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Ltd., a world leader in the development and manufacturing of innovative firearms for over 80 years. Best known for iconic platforms like the TAVOR, UZI, and GALIL, IWI US is dedicated to providing high-quality, combat-proven solutions to the civilian, law enforcement, and military markets.

For more information, please visit www.iwi.us.

Posted in Black Rifle, Firearms, Press Release | 1 Comment »