Author: Tony Grist
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…
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Exploiting enemy communications has never been more important for New Zealand Army Electronic Warfare Operators. As warfare continues to evolve technologically, maintaining their technical abilities, tactical mindset and overall fitness is imperative. 21 APRIL, 2026 As enemy troops advance up the southern coast of the fictional island of Panay, an Anzac Battle Group has mobilised in response. As the two forces prepare to stand-off along the main road artery north, a smaller team of NZ Army specialist Electronic Warfare Operators skirt around the Western flank. Working alongside an infantry company their mission is to destroy enemy reconnaissance assets and deny…
Berryville, AR — Wilson Combat is proud to announce the immediate acquisition of the Guncrafter Industries brand and assets, bringing together two of the most respected names in American custom firearms manufacturing. This strategic acquisition unites decades of innovation, precision engineering, and uncompromising craftsmanship under one banner while preserving the distinct heritage that defines each brand. Founded by Bill Wilson, Wilson Combat has built a global reputation for producing world-class 1911 pistols, premium defensive firearms, and high-performance accessories trusted by professionals and enthusiasts alike. Guncrafter Industries, founded by Alex Zimmermann, is widely recognized for its pioneering development of the .50…
Federal prosecutors on Tuesday indicted the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) for fraud, alleging the civil rights group secretly used donor money to pay leaders and members of white supremacist and other extremist groups for inside information, the Justice Department said. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the Alabama-based nonprofit raised millions of dollars that it used for an informant program that prosecutors say directed as much as $3 million to sources embedded in hate groups like the Ku Klux Klan. The indictment alleges the SPLC used front organizations to move money through bank accounts without detection and hide the…
Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va. — In a pivotal step for infantry modernization, the Marine Corps has successfully completed Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) and the early capability release of the Organic Precision Fires-Light (OPF-L) system. Managed by the Program Manager for Ground Weapons Systems (PM GWS) at Portfolio Acquisition Executive Marine Corps (PAE MC), the OPF-L gives infantry battalions a significant advantage through organic precision strike power. With features like waypoint navigation and target-locking, Marines can guide the munition to its target while maintaining full situational awareness. This allows battalions to strike beyond the enemy’s threat range and…
Beretta Launched Training Gear at NRAAM 26 I got a chance to look at Beretta’s new Training Gear Collection during last week’s NRA Annual Meeting & Exposition in Houston. Developed in collaboration with elite shooters to enhance performance on the range and in competition, the line is moves with the body, manages moisture thanks to fabric selection, reinforced seams, and four-way stretch systems. Collection Highlights: Sonoran Softshell Vest (MSRP: $179)Wind- and water-resistant construction with Beretta Wind Resistant (BWR) membrane, soft microfleece interior, and DWR-treated exterior for enhanced moisture protection. Features include large zippered pockets, adjustable drawstring hem, and rear ventilation…
New M-LOK Accessories from Magpul Magpul showed off their new M-LOK Accessories at the recent NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Houston and I’ve got to say I’m looking forward to them. First up is the Index Stop, a low profile means to ensure a consistent grip, time after time. Next is the Short Vertical Grip. It’s a bit more substantial than the Index Stop and can assist with recoil management. I saved my favorite for last. The Thumb Shelf works like a gas pedal on a pistol. It keeps your thumb forward and offers a solid point to get…
President Donald Trump announced an extension to the two-week ceasefire Tuesday on Truth Social, saying that Iran’s government was “seriously fractured” and Pakistan had asked him to hold off on resuming attacks. Trump said that the U.S. blockade would continue “until such time as their proposal is submitted, and discussions are concluded, one way or the other.” Iran’s Tasnim News Agency said Wednesday that Tehran has not yet issued an official stance on Trump’s announcement extending the ceasefire. A senior adviser to Tehran’s lead negotiator, Speaker of Parliament Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf, said in a post on X Tuesday that Trump’s…
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army today announced the implementation of the new Combat Field Test (CFT), a major update to its physical readiness program designed to align fitness standards with the demanding realities of modern combat. Implementation will begin in April 2026. The CFT is required annually for active-duty Soldiers serving in 24 designated combat military occupational specialties. “The Combat Field Test is a critical step forward in ensuring our Soldiers serving in the most physically demanding specialties have the specific fitness required to dominate on the modern battlefield,” said the Secretary of the Army Hon. Dan Driscoll. “This is…