Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

“Culture First” Argues That the Highest-Performing Teams Are Built Through Culture, Not Talent Alone

April 2nd, 2026

Jon B. Becker distills lessons from a career working alongside elite teams to give a practical blueprint for building high-performance cultures

APRIL 1, 2026 | LOS ANGELES, CA — In Culture First: 9 Leadership Practices That Build Elite Teams, released today on Amazon, Jon B. Becker draws on his extensive career advising and equipping elite tactical units worldwide to make a pointed argument: performance is not primarily a function of talent or strategy, but of culture.

Becker is the founder and CEO of AARDVARK Tactical, a company he launched at seventeen that has since become a trusted partner to top-tier units. He has spent his career embedded alongside federal, state, local, and international teams operating in environments where failure carries real consequences. Over time, he observed a recurring pattern: what separates enduring, high-performing units is not resources or individual capability, but cultural practices, deliberately built and rigorously maintained.

Culture First translates those observations into nine leadership practices, each paired with practical tools leaders can implement immediately. While rooted in high-stakes tactical environments, the framework is intended for broader application across organizations.

At the center of Becker’s argument is a simple premise: culture functions as the operating system of any organization. When neglected, it forms by default. When built with intent, it becomes a force multiplier.

Speaking about the book, Becker said:

“After working alongside some of the most capable teams in the world, one thing became clear: success leaves patterns. The same cultural principles show up repeatedlyunder different leaders, in different missions, across different organizations. This book attempts to capture those patterns and make them usable.”

The book reflects not only Becker’s field experience, but also years of conversations with high performers across disciplines, many featured on his podcast, The Debrief, which has reached more than 1.5 million listeners.

Lt. Lee McMillion, Commander of LAPD D-Platoon (SWAT), has seen the principles firsthand:

“The 9 Practices are not just catchphrases for this book. They are how Jon Becker has built, sustains, and leads his private business, and the reason we have him present Culture-Centric Leadership to our entire team.”

The book’s broader relevance is echoed by Michael Lumpkin, retired Navy SEAL, former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations, and former corporate President and CEO:

“Jon Becker nails it in his understanding that organizational culture is the operating system that drives the success or failure of any organization. His use of real-life examples in both tactical no-fail missions as well as the business world demonstrates that it is central to every organization regardless of mission.”

Culture First is published by Lessons Learned Publishing and is available now on Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats, with hardcover and audiobook editions scheduled for release on May 15, 2026.

About Jon B. Becker

Jon B. Becker is the founder and CEO of AARDVARK Tactical and PROJECT 7 Armor, with decades of experience equipping and advising elite military and law enforcement units. He is a TEDx and keynote speaker, attorney, documentary filmmaker, Ironman triathlete, and host of The Debrief with Jon Beckerpodcast. His work focuses on translating lessons from elite teams into practical leadership frameworks for organizations across industries. Culture First is his first book.

Posted in Media, Press Release | No Comments »

Fort Campbell Soldiers Gain Enhanced Access to Qore Performance Thermoregulation and Hydration Equipment via ATS Tactical Gear Partnership

April 2nd, 2026

Knoxville, TN and Oak Grove, KY — Qore Performance, Inc., the inventors of the ICEAGE ECOSYSTEM of thermoregulation and hydration technologies, is proud to announce ATS Tactical Gear as an authorized dealer. Located at 15858 Fort Campbell Blvd, ATS Tactical Gear provides the Fort Campbell community and the 101st Airborne Division with direct, local access to Qore Performance equipment, which is purpose-built to increase the work capacity and survivability of the individual wearer.

A veteran-owned and operated company, ATS Tactical Gear has supported military and law enforcement personnel for over 20 years with rugged tactical nylon. By adding Qore Performance to their showroom, ATS Tactical Gear continues its commitment to offering professional-grade solutions that meet the specific needs of the airborne and light infantry communities.

Professional Grade Solutions at the Gate

Soldiers and professional end-users in the Oak Grove and Fort Campbell area can now purchase Qore Performance’s industry-leading technologies in-person at the ATS Tactical Gear showroom. Key products now available include:

– ICEPLATE® Gen 3: The world’s most advanced conformal hydration system. This hard-cell bladder provides 52.4 fl oz (1.55 L) of hydration while offering cooling/heating capabilities when frozen or filled with hot water.

– ICEFLASK®: A rugged, 16.9 oz (500ml) hard-cell canteen designed to carry water while fitting into standard radio pouches or its purpose-built ICEFLASK® Wing and MOLLE Holsters, providing consumable cooling or heating in a compact form factor.

ATS is also offering bundles with ATS manufactured Standard and Airborne pouches for ICEFLASK®.

“ATS Tactical Gear is an ideal partner due to their strategic location and their deep roots within the Fort Campbell community,” said Austin Pitsch, Marketing Manager of Qore Performance. “By stocking our equipment locally in Oak Grove, ATS is ensuring that soldiers have the best possible tools to weaponize temperature and increase work capacity right where they train and deploy.”

Professional end-users can visit the ATS Tactical Gear showroom at 15858 Fort Campbell Blvd, Unit D, Oak Grove, KY, or shop online at ATSTacticalGear.com.

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

Modified Coyote Brown, aka MCB Now Available from Magpul

April 2nd, 2026

Magpul has just released products in the new Modified Coyote Brown color announced during SHOT Show. Like rich Corinthian leather, MCB is a darker, smoother take on a proven color palette.

Available now is the 30-round GEN M3 PMAG (windowed and non-windowed), CTR and DT Carbine Stocks, two MOE grips, and two M-LOK accessories (AFG and MVG).

Type 2 Rail Covers will be available very soon.

magpul.com/firearm-accessories

Posted in Advertiser, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Modified Coyote Brown, aka MCB Now Available from Magpul

Army Approves XM8 Carbine & Approves 25 Round Magazines for NGSW

April 2nd, 2026

Picatinny Arsenal, N.J. –

On December 10, 2025, the decision was made to advance the procurement of a carbine variant of the Army’s M7 Rifle, designated the XM8. While not a replacement for the M7, the carbine exemplifies the program’s commitment to rapidly incorporating Soldier feedback.

The Army continues to prioritize the modernization of its weapon systems to ensure Soldiers are equipped with the most effective tools for success in diverse operational environments. After considering Soldier feedback during these user evaluations, the Army is now introducing a shorter, more mobile carbine version of the M7 rifle. This reflects the Army’s commitment to enhancing Soldier mobility and adaptability while maintaining rigorous testing and evaluation standards.

Since the initial contract award, Capability Program Executive Ground, Capability Program Executive Ammunition and Energetics, Project Manager Soldier Lethality, Project Manager Maneuver Ammunition Systems, the Soldier Lethality Cross Functional Team, SIG Sauer, and the collective Army enterprise have worked tirelessly to develop and refine this new capability. The carbine variant has undergone extensive government testing, including a full developmental verification test and multiple Soldier engagements, to ensure it meets the Army’s rigorous standards for performance, reliability, effectiveness, and user acceptance.

SIG Sauer was awarded the Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) contract in April 2022. The M7 Rifle and M250 Automatic Rifle have been successfully tested, produced, and fielded to multiple units across the U.S. Army. The M7 is a gas-operated, magazine-fed rifle with both automatic and semi-automatic firing capabilities. It is equipped with the M157 NGSW-Fire Control (NGSW-FC) which is a magnified 1-8x direct view optic with display overlay, laser range finder, aiming lasers, ballistic solver, and equipped with Intra-Soldier Wireless (ISW) which allows for external wireless communications to Soldier mounted subsystems. The M7 Rifle is the replacement for the M4A1 Carbine in the Close Combat Force (CCF).

The carbine variant of the M7 rifle has undergone extensive government testing, including a full developmental verification test and a Soldier evaluation. During the September 2025 Soldier Touch Point, Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division, USASOC and other units provided direct feedback on the carbine, focusing on user acceptance, load carriage, and integration with advanced fire control systems. Compared to the rifle, the carbine variant is approximately 3.5 inches shorter and over 1 pound lighter, now the same weight as an M4A1. Despite its shorter and lighter design, the carbine still exceeds its lethality requirements due in part to the performance of the 6.8mm tactical ammunition.

In addition to the procurement of the Carbine, the NGSW program is planning several other product improvement efforts. These include lightweight ammunition and 25 round magazines to increase Soldier Unit Basic Loads (UBL), alternate optics to provide unit commanders options and flexibility, and enhancements to the thoroughly tested M157 Fire Control for increased capability and integration into existing Army network infrastructure. These enhancements include integration into future efforts like Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC) and Nett Warrior devices. With these capabilities, Soldiers can create target reference points and request for fire support with greater precision.

Ongoing efforts also include a thermal imager to substitute the AN/PAS-35 Family of Weapons Sight-Individual (FWS-I) on the NGSW which would reduce the overall cost to the government and the weight carried by the Soldier. Because the M157 utilizes a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) with front and rear industry standard open-source enabler ports, the government can continue to upgrade enablers as technology improves, and mission requirements change. In addition to the M157 NGSW-FC, the Army is issuing the latest commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) optics and aiming lasers to six Mobile Brigade Combat Teams in FY26 for assessment and Soldier feedback.

As the carbine enters production, the Army remains focused on delivering a weapon system that meets the needs of its Soldiers to ensure they are equipped to win. This initiative represents a significant step forward in the Army’s ongoing mission to modernize its capabilities and maintain its position as a global leader in defense innovation.

CPE Ground Army

Posted in Army, Guest Post, weapons | Comments Off on Army Approves XM8 Carbine & Approves 25 Round Magazines for NGSW

Rheinmetall and Boeing Partner on German MQ-28 Ghost Bat

April 1st, 2026

Rheinmetall and Boeing Australia have entered into a strategic partnership to offer the MQ-28 Ghost Bat as a mature solution for the Bundeswehr’s procurement of collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) into Germany by 2029.

Boeing’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat has completed more than 150 flights and has been designed, developed and manufactured in Australia for the Royal Australian Air Force and other allied nations.

A proven autonomous CCA, it will act as a force multiplier, teaming with manned platforms to provide critical combat mass in highly contested airspace. Its modular design and autonomous behaviours support a broad range of mission capabilities, including reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and the integration of weapons systems.

Under the partnership, Rheinmetall, with its experience in 5th-generation fighter aircraft and unmanned systems and its strong industrial base, will be the system manager for MQ-28 in Germany, overseeing system integration into existing and future command and weapon systems of the Bundeswehr, adaptation to national requirements and ensuring operational, maintenance, and logistical support.

“With Boeing Defence Australia as a partner, we are laying the groundwork to optimally tailor the MQ-28 to the Bundeswehr’s requirements,” said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG. “As a system integrator, we ensure that integration, operation, and further development come from a single source while simultaneously strengthening industrial value creation in the form of an industrial hub in Germany and Europe. We see revenue potential for Rheinmetall in the range of three-digit millions of euros.”

The strategic partnership ensures a high level of national and sovereign value creation and supply security in Germany.

The MQ-28 Ghost Bat’s open, modular system architecture allows for continuous upgrades and rapid capability growth. Rheinmetall will support a dedicated digital environment in country, where engineers from both Germany and Australia contribute, test and validate new software and hardware innovations.

“This is not just a partnership between our companies but between two great countries, Germany and Australia, who share a similar strategy for integrating collaborative combat aircraft into their air forces,” said Dr. Brendan Nelson, president of Boeing Global. “Our partnership will see Germany’s industrial base leverage years of Australian innovation and investment to field and evolve MQ-28 for the Bundeswehr.”

The collaboration supports joint development, testing and the systematic growth of German content on the Australian-developed platform and offers the Bundeswehr considerable time savings in the deployment of a CCA capability by 2029.

Posted in Aviation, Industry, International, Press Release, UAS | No Comments »

DroneShield Partners with Kinetic Interceptor Manufacturer with Origin Robotics MOU

April 1st, 2026

Sydney, Australia – 31 March 2026 – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-drone technology solutions, along with Origin Robotics, a defence technology company specialising in advanced autonomous systems, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), to formally progress joint collaboration across defence and security projects.

Both companies bring battle-proven technologies already deployed in demanding operational environments. DroneShield contributes its advanced detection, electronic warfare and best-in-class sensor fusion and command-and-control capabilities. Meanwhile, Origin Robotics brings interceptor-focused autonomous platforms engineered for rapid launch, with its BLAZE platform, selected by multiple European governments and now entering operational service.

The MOU establishes a structured framework for the two companies to partner on joint projects that address emerging counter-UAS requirements. This collaboration also represents a pathway to providing operators access to a uniquely powerful combination: world-class detection and tracking from DroneShield’s SensorFusionAI and DroneSentry-C2, seamlessly cueing the proven precision of interceptor-drone defeat enabled by Origin Robotics’ autonomous systems.

DroneShield and Origin Robotics recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to further cooperation on counter-UAS opportunities.

As the threat environment evolves, driven by widespread use of long-range, low-cost kamikaze drones such as Shahed’s, interceptor drones are increasingly being explored as a complementary effector within modern layered counter-UAS architectures, such as DroneShield’s DroneSentry.

Angus Bean, Chief Product Officer at DroneShield said the collaboration positions both companies to move forward on global counter-UAS initiatives. “Counter-UAS has entered a phase where accuracy, speed and scalability are non-negotiable. Our sensor fusion capability delivers world-leading quality track data and allows operators to continuously strengthen drone detection. By partnering with Origin, we are creating a pathway that directly addresses the need to defeat Shahed-type threats, providing operators with a mature, affordable and operationally credible approach as part of a truly layered sensor and effector solution.”

Agris Kipurs, CEO of Origin Robotics said the alignment between the companies creates strong potential for future capability development. “Our autonomous interceptor platforms are built for the realities of modern conflict, where traditional systems can struggle to respond quickly or cost-effectively. Partnering with DroneShield allows us to combine best-in-class detection with real-time interception, creating a more responsive and scalable approach to counter-UAS operations.”

As Europe, the Middle East and the United States continue to invest in more resilient counter?UAS capabilities, this MOU positions DroneShield and Origin Robotics to jointly pursue emerging opportunities and offer pathways to operators seeking adaptable, scalable solutions.

Posted in C-UAS, Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Cubic Digital Intelligence Assessed “Awardable” for Department of War Work in the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office’s (CDAO) Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace

April 1st, 2026

SAN DIEGO, CA, March 31, 2026 – Cubic Digital Intelligence (CDI), a leading provider of defense software for geospatial intelligence and full-motion video dissemination, today announced that its TAKTICS solution has achieved “Awardable” status through the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office’s (CDAO) Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace.

“Achieving Awardable status on Tradewinds validates both the operational impact of TAKTICS and the growing need for rapid, reliable GEOINT dissemination at the tactical edge,” said Samuel Stollar, VP & General Manager of Cubic Digital Intelligence. “This pathway allows Government customers to quickly identify, evaluate and acquire a solution already proven across special operations and conventional forces.”

The Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace is the Department of War’s digital repository of post-competition, readily awardable pitch videos designed to accelerate procurement of AI, data and analytics capabilities across the enterprise.

TAKTICS is CDI’s enterprise GEOINT dissemination platform built specifically for the TAK ecosystem. It automates delivery of mission-critical imagery, terrain and vector data from secure repositories directly to TAK devices, enabling operators to access current geospatial intelligence even in disconnected, denied, degraded, intermittent and low-bandwidth (DDIL) environments.

TAKTICS eliminates manual data preparation, reduces dependency on reach-back networks and synchronizes GEOINT from enterprise to tactical edge in seconds.

TAKTICS is relied upon operationally by Warfighters across the DoW, Special Operations Forces, Marine Raiders, Army Special Forces Groups, Ranger units, AFSOC Special Tactics Squadrons and Naval Special Warfare teams for mission planning, imagery exploitation and ATAK data preparation in austere and denied environments worldwide.

Cubic Digital Intelligence’s video, TAKTICS | Enterprise GEOINT Dissemination for the Tactical Edge, is accessible to Government users within the Tradewinds Marketplace and demonstrates how the solution bridges enterprise GEOINT systems to tactical users through automated workflows and AutoSync Maps technology.

To learn more about Cubic products and services, visit www.cubic.com.

Posted in AI / ML, Press Release, SOF | No Comments »

New!!! FM 3-0, Operations – Gen Alpha Edition!

April 1st, 2026

New times call for new doctrinal approaches! This new publication supplements FM 3-0 by taking all of its essential elements and repackages it to reach the next generation of warfighters!

Check it out here.

Posted in Army | 3 Comments »