Texas-based ammunition and weapon system manufacturer True Velocity Ammo and FN America, a global leader in the development and manufacture of military small arms, have announced a strategic licensing and manufacturing partnership for the production of True Velocity’s .338 Norma Lightweight Medium Machine Gun for U.S. and Allied military units.

The partnership positions FN America as a primary manufacturer of True Velocity’s .338 Norma machine gun, a recoil-mitigated weapon system designed to provide warfighters with range and terminal performance similar to that of the century-old .50-caliber M2 machine gun in a lightweight, functional profile comparable to that of the ubiquitous M240 machine gun also manufactured by FN America.

“True Velocity’s .338 machine gun will change the battlefield for our warfighters. We are thrilled that FN will join with us so we can equip U.S. and Allied militaries with this combat advantage,” said True Velocity President and Chief Intellectual Property Officer Craig Etchegoyen. “It very quickly became clear that FN is a world-renowned, reliable, and respected manufacturer of innovative machine guns, and we’re excited for them to join our mission.”

A lightweight machine gun solution chambered for the .338 Norma cartridge has been a focal point of requirements emerging from the U.S. Department of Defense and Allied militaries in recent years. In March 2024, the United States Department of Defense selected True Velocity’s .338 Norma Lightweight Medium Machine Gun for continued evaluation in a military program aimed at fielding a weapon system that would bridge the performance gap between the .50-caliber M2 machine gun and the M240 machine gun chambered for 7.62x51mm NATO. The combination of True Velocity’s recoil-mitigated .338 Norma Lightweight Medium Machine Gun and its advanced, lightweight composite-cased ammunition provides a turn-key combat solution capable of enhanced controllability, maximized maneuverability, and extreme precision at extended range.

“FN America is extremely excited to partner with True Velocity on this effort to deliver the next medium machine gun to the U.S. military,” said Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America, LLC. “Both companies share that drive and desire to innovate and deliver game-changing technology to the warfighter. This has produced a really great team environment on this effort.”

Incorporating proprietary “impulse-averaging recoil mitigation” technology, True Velocity’s .338 Norma machine gun delivers a 300-grain projectile with enhanced range and precision, while optimizing controllability and maintaining a profile similar to that of the M240 belt-fed machine gun, which is chambered for the smaller, less energetic 7.62x51mm cartridge.

“True Velocity’s lightweight medium machine gun submission is the product of more than a decade of continued innovation and rigorous evaluation,” said True Velocity Senior Executive Vice President of Sales Kevin Sims. “This weapon system delivers unprecedented tactical and operational capabilities to our American warfighters. The sooner we bring it to the battlefield, the better.”

This honor reflects Elbit America’s unrelenting focus on acting with integrity in all aspects of its business. Satisfying basic regulatory requirements to do business is merely a starting point, and Elbit America invests to exceed customer expectations because it’s the right thing to do. The fact that this also has a positive effect on the company’s bottom line and its workforce is an additional benefit. 

“The Elbit America workforce believes that the way we do business is as important as the financial results of that business. We believe our customers share this viewpoint. Ethical practices and methodologies are ingrained into our culture and we are pleased that Ethisphere took note of the way our teams utilize this backbone to achieve the mission,” said Benjamin Kohr, Senior Vice President and General Counsel for the company.

“It’s always inspiring to recognize the World’s Most Ethical Companies. Through the rigorous review process, we see the dedication of these organizations to continually improving their ethics, compliance, and governance practices to the benefit of all stakeholders,” said Erica Salmon Byrne, Ethisphere’s chief strategy officer and executive chair. “Companies that elevate best-in-class cultures of ethics and integrity set a standard for corporate citizenship for their peers and competitors to follow. Congratulations to Elbit America for achieving this honor and demonstrating that strong ethics is good business.”

The “World’s Most Ethical Companies” assessment is grounded in Ethisphere’s proprietary “Ethics Quotient”, an extensive questionnaire that requires companies to provide more than 240 different proof points on their culture of ethics; environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices; ethics and compliance program; diversity, equity, & inclusion; and initiatives that support a strong value chain. That data undergoes further qualitative analysis by a panel of experts who spend thousands of hours vetting and evaluating each year’s group of applicants. This process serves as an operating framework to capture and codify truly best-in-class ethics and compliance practices from organizations across industries and from around the world.

Elbit America earned its first World’s Most Ethical Companies designation in 2014. 

To view the full list of this year’s honorees, please visit the World’s Most Ethical Companies website.

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“As part of our global strategic growth plan, SIG SAUER is solidifying several key partnerships to meet the increased demand for our products in Europe and other NATO countries,” began Ron Cohen, President, SIG SAUER, Inc.  “The alliance with Accuracy International affords SIG an expanded presence, greater customer engagement, and new collaboration in the UK to meet the diverse, immediate and future needs of the British military, law enforcement, and other security and defense organizations.”

Accuracy International is a British firearms manufacturer based in Portsmouth, England with products fielded with military units and law enforcement globally.

“The benefits of the partnership with SIG SAUER are clear; our brand reputations are strong, the product lines and customer bases are complementary, and our company cultures are closely aligned,” stated Tom Irwin, AI Director; “SIG will benefit from AI’s extensive UK market expertise and manufacturing and logistical infrastructure to assist in the transition toward a fully independent SIG SAUER UK entity.” 

“This strategic partnership signifies our commitment and laser focus on the US-UK defence security relationship and our investment brings new opportunity to the British economy,” Cohen concluded.

But, we’re getting backchannels reports that SOCOM’s purchase of an unreported number of SIG MG 338s was for a small number of evaluation guns and that its LMG-M competition continues.

We are aware that the SOCOM competition was down to three systems offered by SIG Sauer, Lone Star Future Weapons, and Ohio Ordnance Works and we’d seen press about two of the entrants, but OOW had yet to reveal any information publicly about its weapon system until today.

Along with an public invitation to see the REAPR at the company’s exhibition booth 70405 at SHOT Show 2024, it also said photos and a specification sheet will be made available next week.

While OOW refers to the REAPR as, “a revolution in modern military general purpose machine guns (GPMG)” and not a “lightweight medium machinegun” per se, it goes on to say the weapon is, “Designed to exceed SOCOM military specifications,” a clear indication of the company’s positioning REAPR for use by Special Operations Command.

While few details were offered, OOW shared the following features:

• Lightweight Design
• Chambered in 338 Norma Magnum
• Compatible with a 7.62 NATO conversion kit
• Simple and robust receiver
• Tool-less field stripping
• One-handed barrel changes
• Modular, transportable design that breaks downs into three components in under ten seconds

OOW says REAPR is available now in small quantities with full volume production beginning April 2024.

“Federal continues to position itself as a trusted supplier for the U.S. Military and Special Operations,” said Peter Gillette, Federal’s Director of International LE & Military Sales. “We are excited for this contract win. It validates the quality of our products, thoroughness of our testing procedures, and dedication to hard work from our American factory workers.”

The cartridge selected during the two-year contract term is the Mk316 Mod 0, 7.62x51mm, 175-grain precision match rifle load.The ordering period is for a total of two years. The ammunition will be produced by Federal at the Anoka, Minnesota facility.

“In general, our match ammunition has a legendary reputation for extreme accuracy, shot after shot, lot to lot. It is trusted time-and-time-again by police and military marksmen,” continued Gillette. “MK316 Mod 0 fits in perfectly with Federal’s history of producing extremely accurate ammunition held to tight tolerances required by strict U.S. Military specifications.”

Federal ammunition can be found nationwide and online. For more information on all products from Federal, visitwww.federalpremium.com.

Elbit America received a five-year Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract from the United States Marine Corps (USMC) to continue producing the Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggle (SBNVG). The competitive contract is worth up to $500 million, with an initial delivery order for nearly $127 million. The goggles will be produced in Roanoke, Virginia. The company has delivered more than 15,000 SBNVG systems to the USMC since 2019. 

The SBNVG has proven to be a game-changer in modern warfare, as it is lightweight without compromising capability. The goggles currently provide image intensification, with an enhanced clip-on thermal imager. The set-up allows Marines to operate at night, or in dark buildings and tunnels where one’s situational awareness is challenged.

The SBNVG is a helmet-mounted system that provides Marines with increased depth perception, enhanced clarity through high-performance white phosphor image intensifier tubes, a thermal-imaging capability, and more. These features, along with extra-long run times, provide Marines an added edge on the battlefield.

“No matter the light conditions or environment, Marines are tapped for challenging missions. Equipped with Elbit America’s Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggles, Marines can quickly understand their surroundings and act,” said Erik Fox, Vice President of Warfighter Systems at Elbit America.

“Elbit America is proud of our long history supplying Marines with night vision and electro-optic innovations,” said Raanan Horowitz, the company’s president and CEO. “We continue to refine our portfolio, offering solutions that enable the networked Warfighter of the future with sophisticated decision aids and display systems that work in all operational environments.”

More details about Elbit America Night Vision are available at  https://www.elbitamerica.com/night-vision.

The contract has a value of over $2.1 million and features the same holster solution that was adopted earlier this year by the French Army and the Niedersachsen State Police of Germany.

“This contract is a testament to the craftsmanship of Blackhawk products and the brand’s commitment to equipping law enforcement officials around the globe,” said Jeff Sposito, who leads the Blackhawk and Stone Glacier brands of Vista Outdoor.

The Belgian Federal Police selected the Blackhawk holsters to carry their service pistol, the Smith & Wesson M&P9, while the local police zones in Belgium will have the ability to purchase new duty holsters compatible with their Glock 17/45 service pistols.

The USG noted that Blackhawk T-Series is a secure and versatile platform, with the T-Series L3D holsters coming standard with the Jacket Slot Belt Loop or being compatible with the agency-selected Blackhawk Micro Tac Platform. This modularity allows officers to select the form of carry most suited to their needs without sacrificing accessibility or security.

To date, T-Series holsters have been selected for duty use by over 3,200 law enforcement agencies both in the U.S. and abroad. As the world’s first thumb-driven, dual-injected molded holster, the T-Series is Blackhawk’s premier duty-rated holster.

Learn more about Blackhawk’s T-Series holster and other duty products at blackhawk.com

”Russian drone attacks on Ukraine have been a regular occurrence since the start of the war,” said Oleg Vornik, DroneShield CEO. “DroneShield is pleased to be supplying our drone detection and defeat systems to Ukraine under this sovereign aid package.”

DroneShield has received multiple orders from the Australian Government as part of a $20 million dollar military assistance package to Ukraine, with a total value to DroneShield of $10.4 million.

$5 million of cash receipts from the $10.4 million total was included in the record $48.2 million cash receipts YTD to 20 October, announced earlier this week in DroneShield’s latest quarterly 4C release. The remaining cash receipts are expected to be received prior to end of 2023.

DroneShield is pleased to share the ongoing support by the Australian Government for its cutting edge counter-drone capability, including the image of the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with DroneShield DroneGun Mk4 handheld counter-drone system, at the White House complex in Washington D.C.

”DroneShield continues to receive strong support from both Australian and U.S. Governments, being our two home bases,” Oleg Vornik, DroneShield CEO, commented. “This image of the Australian Prime Minister holding our flagship product is a showcase of this support. Most work we do, is under strict confidentiality due to the nature of our customers, and its pleasing to see this public endorsement of our work, as global tensions and hostile use of drones continue globally.”

“This contribution will provide Ukraine with some of the best capabilities in the world,” said Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese, “while investing in Australia’s sovereign defence industry and technology sector.”

Full details of the announcement are available under:

https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/media-releases/2023-10-25/australian-capabilities-continue-supporting-ukraine

Seven prominent companies have made a resounding commitment to participate in the highly acclaimed Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security Asia (NATSEC Asia) 2024 exhibition, signifying an exceptional show of support. This commitment was formalized during the contract handover ceremony at the ongoing Defense & Security (D&S) 2023 event in Bangkok, Thailand. This strong industry backing underscores the pivotal role of DSA & NATSEC Asia as a premier platform for the global defense sector. 

Witnessed by Secretary General Malaysian Ministry of Defence, Datuk Seri Isham Bin Ishak, and General Tan Sri Datuk Seri Mohammad bin Ab Rahman, Chief of Defence Force Malaysia, the ceremony included the participation of Ikramatic Systems Sdn Bhd, Mildef International Technologies, OpenApps Sdn Bhd, System Consultancy Services Sdn Bhd, Kemalak Group, Ketech Asia, dan Beijing Bunch Exhibition Services representing China Pavilion. 

Where Global Defense Innovation Meets Unprecedented International Support

Over the years, DSA’s exhibition floor consistently draws the attention of international exhibitors. In the 2022 edition, the event welcomed a total of 380 VIP delegations from 34 nations, attesting to its standing as the largest and most efficient homeland defense and security show in Asia. Distinguished guests had the opportunity to witness the presentation of the world’s most advanced technology, cutting-edge systems, hardware, and electronic warfare offerings. 

Following the successful conclusion of the 2022 edition, a resounding 90.4% of the participants expressed their unwavering commitment to returning to DSA and NATSEC Asia in 2024. This high rate of return underscores the show’s reputation as a vital gathering for industry leaders, government representatives, and defense and homeland security agencies from across the region. The primary objective remains to foster mutual trust and promote collaboration among all stakeholders.

Preparations for DSA and NATSEC Asia 2024, scheduled for 6-9 May 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), are already well underway. Buoyed by the success of DSA and NATSEC Asia 2022, the organizers are determined to deliver excellence once again to ensure the success of DSA and NATSEC Asia 2024.

Building Resilient Nations for the Next Generation

Continuous sustainable growth requires stability vis a vis peace, safety, security, and harmony. Consequently, it is vital for nations to build resilience, not only for their immediate survivability but also for the prosperity of future generations. The theme of ‘Building Resilient Nations for The Next Generation’ has been chosen for the upcoming edition of DSA & NATSEC Asia. This strategic platform serves as an arena for decision-makers to engage in critical discussions and formulate the best strategies to ensure the stability and security of future generations.

“All Nations aspire to progress and develop. Defense and security must be seen as an investment. Only nations that invest strategically in their defense and homeland security will cultivate credible forces capable of continuously safeguarding their sovereignty, maintaining law and order, and ensuring that their people can lead peaceful lives and enjoy economic prosperity,” commented DSA Executive Director, Mr. Nadzeem Abdul Rahman. These insights were shared during the foreword objective of the next edition’s theme selection at the launch of the Malaysian Pavilion held at D&S.

Platform to Forge Resilience

In the recent 2024 budget announcement, the Malaysian government has demonstrated its commitment to bolstering defense readiness and national security by allocating increased resources to the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Ministry of Defence has been allocated RM19.7 billion (US$4.37 billion), an increase of RM2 billion compared to 2023, aimed at facilitating the acquisition of essential new assets for the armed forces. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Home Affairs, has been allocated RM19 billion, an increase of RM500 million, reinforcing the nation’s overall security framework. 

The government’s comprehensive procurement plan encompasses a range of essential assets. Notable allocations include the acquisition of 12 new helicopters for the Royal Malaysian Air Force, substantial additions to the Malaysian Army’s arsenal, featuring 60 infantry fighting vehicles, 50 High Mobility Light Tactical Vehicles (HMLTV), six Hovercraft Integrated Fast Interceptors, and 733 support vehicles. Additionally, the plan involves crucial maintenance of two submarines, the continuation of acquiring three Littoral Mission Ships (LMS) for the Royal Malaysian Navy, and the replacement of outdated assets with seven twin-engine aircraft and five light helicopters for the Royal Malaysian Police.

In parallel, the government is fortifying maritime security with the acquisition of 45 diverse types of boats for the Malaysian Army and nine cutting-edge patrol vessels. This initiative extends to the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM), enhancing border and maritime security through the procurement of nine new patrol boats, further reinforcing efficiency and control at international entry points.

Gathering of Global Defense and Security Industry

Since the conclusion of the 2022 edition, the organizers have received participation and early commitments, underlining the industry’s strong support for DSA & NATSEC Asia. Notable exhibitors, such as Roketsan Missiles Inc, CANiK (Samsun Yurt Savunma A.S), FNSS, Aselsan, East Gear International, SWAT Footwear (M) Sdn Bhd, International Securities Sdn Bhd (ISC), among many others, have already signed the participation contracts, demonstrating early commitment to this significant event.

In a testament to the platform’s effectiveness for the global defense industry, a growing number of Malaysian companies have expanded their exhibition space for the upcoming edition, reflecting their confidence in the event’s value. Furthermore, more companies are expected to finalize their participation by the end of this year.

The list of national pavilions that have already confirmed their participation includes Austria, China, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the USA. 

For inquiries and participation, please visit www.dsaexhibition.com or contact us at enquiry@dsaexhibition.com.