Uncrowned Guard

Production Pace Surpasses United States China has outpaced the United States in submarine production between 2021 and 2025, according to research published by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) and reported by Breaking Defense. The London-based think tank found that China launched 10 submarines during the period, representing an estimated 79,000 tonnes of displacement. By comparison, the United States launched seven submarines totaling approximately 55,000 tonnes. The findings, detailed in the IISS Military Balance blog by Senior Fellow Henry Boyd and Research Fellow Tom Waldyn, indicate that China’s shipbuilding expansion has accelerated the growth of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) undersea fleet. Expansion of Nuclear Deterrent Fleet Among the vessels launched were the seventh and eighth Type 094 (Jin-class) nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), a key component of China’s developing nuclear triad. Commercial satellite imagery from early 2026 identified six Type 094 boats distributed across Bohai Shipbuilding Heavy Industry Co. (BSHIC) in Huludao, the 1st Submarine Base at Jianggezhuang, the Xiaopingdao test facility, and the 2nd Submarine Base at Yalong Bay on Hainan Island. Accounting for submarines potentially on deterrence patrol or undergoing refit, the researchers assess that the seventh and eighth Type 094 units were likely launched in 2024 and 2025. BSHIC, a state-owned enterprise responsible for China’s nuclear-powered submarines, expanded its facilities between 2019 and 2022, adding a second manufacturing hall and related infrastructure that increased production capacity. Guided-Missile Submarine Developments In addition to SSBN construction, China is expanding its fleet of nuclear-powered guided-missile submarines (SSGNs). The report estimates that nine Type 093B (Shang III) submarines have been launched since 2022, based on satellite imagery and U.S. government assessments. The Type 093B is an upgraded variant of the earlier Type 093A and is reportedly equipped with a vertical launch system (VLS) for guided missiles. A new SSGN class, identified in external reporting as the Type 09V, was also reportedly launched this month. Analysts assess that these VLS-equipped submarines are likely configured to carry anti-ship missiles, including the hypersonic YJ-19 displayed during China’s September military parade. This configuration suggests a focus on high-end naval combat in the Western Pacific rather than the land-attack mission profile typical of U.S. Navy SSGNs. Operational Constraints and Acoustic Considerations Despite higher production rates, the IISS notes qualitative differences between Chinese submarines and their U.S. and European counterparts. A key limiting factor for PLAN operations remains acoustic performance. Earlier assessments, including a 2009 U.S. Office of Naval Intelligence report, indicated that the Type 093 and Type 094 designs were noisier than contemporary Western submarines, with sound signatures comparable to late Cold War Soviet platforms. As a result, Type 094 SSBNs are believed to operate primarily in the comparatively protected waters of the South China Sea, where other People’s Liberation Army assets can provide layered defense. However, the IISS cautions that available acoustic assessments are dated, and the current noise levels of newer variants remain uncertain. Overall, the findings highlight China’s expanding industrial capacity and sustained investment in undersea warfare, while underscoring continuing performance gaps that shape deployment patterns and strategic use. View full article

$73.5 Million FMS Contract Supports Merkava Fleet Sustainment Through 2032 The U.S. Army has awarded Rolls-Royce Solutions America Inc. a $73,528,916 firm-fixed-price contract to provide Merkava tank power-pack kits, metal containers, and contractor engineering technical services for Israel under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. Work will be performed in Graniteville, South Carolina, with completion scheduled for Dec. 31, 2032. The award, issued by Army Contracting Command at Detroit Arsenal under contract W912CH-26-C-0019, is funded with fiscal 2026 FMS funds for Israel. The contract carries a cumulative face value of $462,947,478, indicating a long-term sustainment framework rather than a one-time procurement. Scope: Full and Lite Power-Pack Kits The contract covers “Power Pack Less Transmission” kits in both full and lite configurations. These kits exclude the transmission, which is sustained separately, but include the primary propulsion module and associated components. Full kits are typically aligned with depot-level overhauls and major resets, while lite kits support field-level maintenance and rapid replacement of high-wear components. The inclusion of dedicated metal containers supports transport, storage, and prepositioning, enabling quicker turnaround and reduced downtime during high operational tempo. Contractor engineering technical services are also included, providing ongoing expertise for integration, sustainment planning, and configuration management. Propulsion as a Readiness Driver The Merkava Mk4 and related heavy armored platforms are widely associated with the MT883-class 1,500-horsepower turbocharged V12 diesel engine. Designed for sustained heavy loads and military adaptability, the modular power pack integrates the engine, cooling systems, filtration, sensors, and ancillary components into a unit engineered for rapid replacement. In modern armored forces, propulsion modules are critical determinants of readiness. Modular “drop-in” designs allow replacement in hours rather than days, supporting higher fleet availability rates. For Israel’s heavy tracked formations, propulsion reliability directly affects operational endurance, maneuver capacity, and recovery timelines. The February contract follows a January notification by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency to Congress of a possible $740 million sale covering Namer armored personnel carrier power packs and related support. The parallel structure of the two efforts suggests coordinated sustainment planning across Israel’s heavy armored fleet. Merkava Design and Modernization Context The Merkava family forms the backbone of Israel’s heavy ground maneuver forces. Its front-engine configuration enhances crew survivability while enabling a rear compartment accessible by ramp for resupply, casualty evacuation, or limited troop transport. The Merkava Mk4 centers on a 120 mm smoothbore main gun and integrates layered protection systems, including active protection such as Trophy. Recent modernization efforts, including the Mk4 Barak variant, emphasize upgraded sensors, AI-assisted mission systems, and helmet-mounted displays designed to improve situational awareness. Israeli officials have cited logistical enhancements intended to extend mission duration by up to 30 percent. Such endurance gains depend on sustained propulsion availability and efficient maintenance cycles, reinforcing the strategic importance of long-horizon power-pack support. Industrial and Strategic Dimensions While Israel maintains domestic design authority through its Merkava and Armored Vehicles Directorate, key propulsion elements are sourced through international partnerships. The MT883/GD883 engine family is commonly paired with a Renk RK 325-class transmission, though transmissions are not included in the current award. Executing propulsion sustainment through the U.S. FMS framework provides structured contracting oversight, financing mechanisms, and access to an established industrial base. At the same time, Israel retains integration control and modularity within its armored fleet architecture. View full article

Iran Positions Ghadir Mini Submarines as Asymmetric Counter to U.S. Carrier Presence Iran has deployed more than 20 Ghadir-class midget submarines in the Persian Gulf as U.S. carrier strike groups operate in the region, according to Army Recognition reporting. While these vessels cannot rival U.S. naval power directly, their design and employment doctrine are intended to complicate carrier operations in confined and shallow waters. Open-source assessments estimate Iran’s submarine fleet at roughly 28 to 30 boats, the majority of which are small coastal submarines optimized for Gulf conditions. With at least one U.S. aircraft carrier operating in the Middle East and the potential for additional deployments, Iranian naval strategy appears focused on imposing operational constraints rather than seeking conventional sea control. Design Optimized for Shallow-Water Warfare The Ghadir-class is purpose-built for littoral operations. Displacing approximately 117 tons surfaced and 125 tons submerged, the diesel-electric boats are suited to the Persian Gulf’s shallow depths, heavy maritime traffic, and complex seabed terrain. Larger submarines face maneuvering limits in such environments, while sonar performance is often degraded by salinity, temperature layering, and high ambient noise. Most assessments trace the Ghadir’s lineage to North Korea’s Yono-class submarine. Reports indicate that at least one Yono was transferred to Iran in 2004, followed by domestic production of modified variants. Estimates suggest that between 20 and 23 Ghadir boats are operational, providing Iran with the ability to disperse multiple submarines across chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz. Armament and Operational Roles The Ghadir carries two 533 mm torpedo tubes with a limited onboard weapons load. It is associated with Iranian torpedoes, including the Valfajr and possibly the Hoot supercavitating torpedo. Despite its small size, the platform offers significant lethality relative to displacement. Beyond torpedoes, the class is assessed as capable of laying naval mines and deploying combat divers, expanding its role into covert operations. In 2019, Iran announced the test launch of a Jask anti-ship cruise missile from a Ghadir submarine. Reporting links the Jask-2 to an encapsulated “swim-out” missile derived from the Nasr-1 family, potentially allowing engagements at greater stand-off distances. If operationally viable, such capability would add complexity to defensive planning for escort vessels. Exploiting the Gulf’s Acoustic Environment The Persian Gulf’s environmental conditions present challenges for anti-submarine warfare. Variations in salinity and temperature, combined with dense commercial shipping and seabed clutter, can degrade sonar effectiveness. Diesel-electric submarines operating on battery power are inherently quiet, and the Ghadir is reportedly capable of bottoming—resting on the seabed to reduce detectability. These factors make persistent tracking difficult, particularly in narrow transit routes. A distributed deployment of mini submarines combined with minefields could constrain maneuver space for high-value units, increasing operational risk during chokepoint transits. Implications for U.S. Naval Operations U.S. carrier strike groups maintain extensive anti-submarine warfare capabilities, including MH-60R helicopters equipped with dipping sonar and the integration of unmanned surface and subsurface systems. However, ASW operations in the Gulf remain resource-intensive due to environmental complexity. Strategically, the Ghadir-class does not need to defeat a carrier strike group in open combat to achieve effect. By increasing uncertainty, extending timelines, and compelling greater allocation of ASW assets, Iran’s mini-submarine fleet can raise the operational cost of sustained U.S. naval presence near its coastline. Tehran’s investment reflects a broader approach centered on leveraging geography and asymmetric capabilities to offset conventional naval disparities. View full article

U.S. Troops Deploy to Nigeria for Counterterrorism Training Mission Approximately 100 U.S. service members have arrived in Nigeria to train and support the country’s military, U.S. and Nigerian officials confirmed. The deployment follows a formal request from the Nigerian government for assistance in training, technical support, and intelligence sharing aimed at countering extremist threats. A spokesperson for Nigeria’s armed forces said the U.S. personnel arrived at Bauchi Airfield in northern Nigeria. Their mission is to assist Nigerian forces in identifying and neutralizing extremist groups operating within the country. Nigerian officials emphasized that the U.S. contingent will serve strictly in an advisory capacity and will not participate directly in combat operations. Mission Scope and Objectives According to Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Defense Headquarters, the collaboration will provide specialized technical capabilities to strengthen Nigeria’s counterterrorism capacity and improve protection for vulnerable communities. U.S. Africa Command confirmed the deployment supports Nigerian-led counterterrorism operations but did not disclose the specific units involved or their home stations. Reuters previously reported that the United States intends to deploy up to 200 troops to Nigeria, with the first elements arriving over the weekend. The timeline for the arrival of the remaining personnel has not been announced. Context: Recent U.S. Strikes in Sokoto State The advisory mission follows U.S. military strikes conducted in Sokoto state on Christmas. During that operation, a U.S. Navy destroyer launched several Tomahawk cruise missiles targeting suspected camps linked to the Islamic State and Lakuwara, an affiliated group. Some missiles reportedly failed to detonate. The number of casualties resulting from the strikes has not been confirmed. In January, President Donald Trump indicated that additional strikes remained under consideration. The deployment of advisers comes amid continued U.S. military engagement in Africa, where airstrikes against ISIS and al-Shabaab have increased over the past year. Domestic Security Challenges in Nigeria Nigeria continues to face multiple internal security challenges, particularly in its northern regions. While extremist violence has affected both Muslim and Christian communities, Nigerian officials have rejected claims that violence is exclusively directed at one religious group. Analysts note that several ongoing conflicts in the country are rooted in economic disputes and local instability, in addition to extremist activity. Northern Nigeria, which is predominantly Muslim, has experienced repeated attacks by militant organizations. Nigerian authorities have stated that enhanced cooperation with U.S. forces is intended to improve intelligence sharing, operational effectiveness, and long-term counterterrorism capabilities. The current deployment represents an expansion of bilateral security cooperation, with U.S. forces providing advisory and technical support while Nigerian forces retain operational control of counterterrorism efforts. View full article

U.S. Authorizes Major Arms Sales Amid Regional Tensions The United States on Friday approved multibillion-dollar weapons sales to Israel and Saudi Arabia, moves that come amid elevated tensions with Iran and ongoing instability across the Middle East. The approvals were announced by the State Department, which said the transactions align with U.S. national security interests and long-standing defense partnerships in the region. Israel: Apache Helicopters and Tactical Vehicles For Israel, the State Department authorized a $3.8 billion sale of 30 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, along with a separate $1.8 billion package for Joint Light Tactical Vehicles. U.S. officials said the proposed sales are intended to help Israel maintain a credible self-defense capability. The United States provides Israel with billions of dollars in military support annually, much of it delivered as aid rather than through direct sales. The latest approval follows a U.S.-backed ceasefire reached between Israel and Hamas in October, which largely halted nearly two years of fighting in Gaza. Saudi Arabia: Expanded Air and Missile Defense The State Department also approved a $9 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, centered on the delivery of 730 Patriot interceptor missiles. The Patriot system is designed to defend against incoming ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft, and is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s air and missile defense architecture. The approval comes as Gulf states monitor escalating regional risks, including the potential for wider conflict involving Iran. While Saudi Arabia remains a strategic rival of Tehran, it has publicly cautioned against direct attacks on Iran, citing concerns that broader instability could undermine the Gulf’s role as a hub for trade and investment. Broader Strategic Context Regional tensions remain high as the United States deploys significant naval and air forces in waters near Iran. Israel last year conducted a major bombing campaign targeting Iranian nuclear and military facilities. Iran, meanwhile, has faced sustained internal unrest, with authorities responding forcefully to large-scale protests, reportedly resulting in thousands of deaths. Saudi Arabia has also weighed a potential normalization of relations with Israel, a prospect that has appeared increasingly uncertain as Israel’s military operations in the Palestinian territories continue. View full article

Upcoming Talks Scheduled in Abu Dhabi Ukraine, the United States, and Russia are set to convene in Abu Dhabi on Feb. 4–5 for a new round of peace negotiations, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The talks are intended to continue diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the war and follow earlier meetings held in the United Arab Emirates. Zelensky said Ukraine is prepared for a substantive dialogue focused on achieving a durable and dignified resolution to the conflict. Format and Timing Uncertainty Zelensky’s announcement came after uncertainty over whether talks initially planned for Feb. 1 would proceed and whether they would be conducted bilaterally between Kyiv and Moscow or in a trilateral format including Washington. The confirmation of dates and location clarified that the next round would involve all three parties, continuing the framework used in previous discussions. Recent Diplomatic Engagements Diplomatic activity intensified in the days preceding the announcement. On Jan. 31, Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev met with U.S. officials in Miami, including U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. These discussions followed a prior two-day meeting among Ukrainian, U.S., and Russian representatives that concluded in Abu Dhabi on Jan. 24, indicating sustained engagement despite ongoing hostilities. Key Issues on the Agenda Negotiations are expected to focus on a potential energy ceasefire and territorial control in eastern Ukraine, particularly the Donbas region. Russia has consistently demanded that Ukraine cede the entirety of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, including areas not currently under Russian occupation, as a precondition for any peace agreement. Kyiv has rejected these demands, maintaining its position on territorial integrity under international law. Energy Infrastructure and Ceasefire Proposals The talks come amid continued pressure on Ukraine’s energy system following repeated Russian strikes. On Jan. 29, U.S. President Donald Trump said he had asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt attacks on Ukrainian cities for one week. Russian officials responded the following day that any pause would apply only to Kyiv and would last until Feb. 1. Ongoing Attacks and Civilian Impact Despite discussions of limited restraint, Russian attacks have continued against civilian infrastructure in other Ukrainian cities in recent days, resulting in casualties. The persistence of strikes underscores the challenges facing negotiators as diplomatic efforts proceed alongside active military operations. View full article

Former Advisory Unit Receives New Mission in Panama An Army unit originally created to train Afghan security forces has been redesignated and assigned a new role focused on jungle warfare training in Central America. The 1st Security Forces Assistance Brigade formally ceased operations this week and was reconstituted as Army Security Cooperation Group – South. The newly named organization will operate the Combined Jungle Operations Training Course in Panama, marking a significant shift in mission from advising foreign forces to providing specialized terrain training for U.S. and partner militaries. The change was announced during a ceremony on Tuesday at Fort Benning, Georgia. Col. Keith W. Benedict, the group’s commander, said the unit is now tasked with leading combined and combined-arms jungle training efforts, emphasizing operational expertise rather than advisory roles. Combined Jungle Operations Training Course The 21-day Combined Jungle Operations Training Course is conducted at Aeronaval Base Cristóbal Colón in Panama, a former U.S. Army installation transferred to Panamanian control in 1999. The course brings together U.S. and Panamanian forces to train in jungle survival, small-unit tactics, combat tracking, and waterborne operations. Since the course resumed last year, most participants have been U.S. Marines, trained by a mix of Army and Panamanian instructors. According to Army officials, the first large group of U.S. Army soldiers is scheduled to begin training in February, reflecting expanded Army participation after more than two decades without routine jungle training in Panama. Introduction of the Army Jungle Tab Beginning next month, soldiers who complete the course will receive the Army’s jungle tab for the first time. Army Col. Mike Burns, a spokesman for U.S. Army Western Hemisphere Command, said the tab signifies proficiency in jungle-specific skills, including maneuver tactics, survival techniques, and operations in austere, water-dominated environments. The tab formalizes jungle warfare as a recognized Army skill set, similar to existing tabs for other specialized training. Strategic Focus on the Western Hemisphere The establishment of the Army Security Cooperation Group – South aligns with a broader shift in U.S. defense priorities toward Latin America and the Western Hemisphere. The Defense Department’s most recent National Defense Strategy emphasizes defending U.S. interests throughout the region and preventing adversaries from establishing threatening capabilities close to U.S. territory. The Panama-based training mission is intended to strengthen regional partnerships while improving U.S. readiness for operations in jungle terrain. SFAB Drawdown and Reorganization Between 2017 and 2020, the Army created six Security Force Assistance Brigades—five active-duty and one National Guard—to provide dedicated advisory units for foreign conventional forces. Conceived under the Army Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Milley, the SFABs initially focused on training Afghan, Iraqi, and Peshmerga forces. The 1st SFAB deployed to Afghanistan in 2018 before later shifting attention to South America. The Army is now reducing the number of SFABs. Of the original six, only the 5th SFAB, oriented toward the Indo-Pacific, will retain its original advisory mission. Army officials have said the drawdown is intended to return experienced noncommissioned officers to traditional infantry and armor units, reinforcing conventional force readiness. View full article

Renewed U.S. Pressure on Iran’s Nuclear Program U.S. President Donald Trump issued a new ultimatum to Iran on Jan. 28, stating that military strikes remain an option if Tehran does not agree to limits on its nuclear weapons program. The warning followed weeks of unrest inside Iran and stalled diplomatic discussions over nuclear and ballistic missile constraints. Trump reiterated that Washington’s objective is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, while signaling that negotiations remain preferable to force. Nationwide Protests and Violent Suppression Iran experienced widespread protests earlier in January, initially driven by high inflation and the sharp depreciation of the Iranian rial. The demonstrations rapidly evolved into political unrest, with protesters calling for the removal of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Reports indicated protests in more than 100 cities and towns, involving tens to hundreds of thousands of participants. At their peak on Jan. 8–9, the demonstrations represented one of the largest uprisings in Iran’s recent history. The protests were ultimately suppressed by Iranian security forces. Casualty figures vary significantly by source. Iran’s Human Rights Activists News Agency reported at least 6,092 deaths, with more than 17,000 cases under investigation. Other outlets, citing Iranian Health Ministry sources or opposition-linked media, have estimated fatalities ranging from 30,000 to more than 36,000. Iranian authorities have not released comprehensive official figures. U.S. Deliberations and Regional Constraints Analysts say the U.S. response was delayed in part due to limited military assets in the region at the height of the unrest. A U.S. carrier strike group previously deployed to the area had been reassigned elsewhere, reducing immediate strike options. Questions also emerged within the administration over the effectiveness and objectives of potential attacks, including whether strikes would aim to deter further repression, target nuclear facilities, or pursue broader political goals. Regional dynamics further complicated decision-making. Several U.S. allies in the Middle East expressed reluctance to support military action, citing fears of Iranian retaliation and insufficient missile defense coverage. Israel, despite its longstanding opposition to Iran’s nuclear ambitions, reportedly urged caution. The New York Times reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked Trump to delay any strike. Diplomatic Maneuvering and Russian Involvement Russia, a key ally of Tehran, offered to mediate between Iran, the United States, and Israel. Russian President Vladimir Putin held separate calls with Netanyahu and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in mid-January. Analysts, however, assess Moscow’s leverage over Tehran as limited, reducing the likelihood of a negotiated breakthrough through Russian channels. Military Buildup Signals Escalation Risk Despite earlier hesitations, the United States has increased its military presence around Iran. In recent weeks, additional aircraft and naval assets have been deployed to regional bases, including the arrival of a U.S. aircraft carrier and supporting warships in the Persian Gulf on Jan. 26. CNN reported that the administration is considering strikes following failed preliminary talks on nuclear and missile issues. Potential targets discussed by analysts include nuclear facilities, government infrastructure, and security organizations such as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Basij units. While no final decision has been announced, the buildup suggests that military options remain actively under consideration. View full article

Taurus Introduces TX9 as a Dedicated Duty-Grade Pistol Platform Taurus has announced the TX9 series, a new line of striker-fired 9×19mm pistols positioned as the company’s first purpose-built, duty-grade handgun platform. Developed as an expansion of the existing TX platform, previously limited to rimfire, the TX9 is designed to meet military and law-enforcement standards, including NATO specifications. The pistols are built in the United States and are intended to serve duty, defensive, and concealed-carry roles through a unified system. Modular Chassis and Core Design Features Central to the TX9 series is the Taurus Modular System, which uses a serialized steel internal chassis. This design allows for modular grip configurations, simplified component replacement, and long-term adaptability across different frame sizes. Taurus positions the TX9 as a scalable system rather than a single fixed handgun. All models use a striker-fired trigger system intended to provide a consistent trigger pull across the lineup, supporting training continuity and predictable handling. Optics-Ready Configuration Across the Line Every TX9 pistol ships with a Taurus T.O.R.O. (Taurus Optic Ready Option) slide. The optic cut shares a standardized geometry designed to accommodate many of the most common duty and carry red-dot sights. Taurus states that the optic-ready capability was integrated into the slide design from inception, rather than added as a retrofit, with the goal of improving durability and maintaining zero under extended use. Three Size Variants With Shared Architecture The TX9 series launches with three configurations built around the same core architecture. The Full Size model features a 4.5-inch barrel and a 17-round magazine capacity, targeting uniformed duty use, home defense, and high-volume training. The Compact variant uses a 4.0-inch barrel with a 15-round magazine, offering a reduced footprint while retaining full-duty controls and handling characteristics. The Subcompact version is equipped with a 3.4-inch barrel and a 13-round magazine, intended for concealed or off-duty carry while preserving optics compatibility. Consistent Ergonomics and Controls All TX9 variants share the same control layout, trigger characteristics, and general ergonomics to allow seamless transition between sizes. Modular grip frames with interchangeable backstraps are included to accommodate different hand sizes. According to Taurus, this consistency is intended to reduce retraining requirements and improve user familiarity across multiple roles. Strategic Significance for Taurus Taurus leadership describes the TX9 as a major step in the company’s product strategy. CEO Bret Vorhees stated that the platform represents Taurus’s first dedicated duty pistol, applying the TX platform’s established ergonomics to a service-oriented 9mm system. With the TX9, Taurus aims to compete more directly in the duty and professional handgun market while maintaining cross-compatibility and modularity across the lineup. View full article

Weatherby Launches the 25 Weatherby RPM Cartridge Weatherby has officially introduced the 25 Weatherby RPM (25 WBY RPM), expanding its Rebated Precision Magnum (RPM) cartridge lineup. The new .25-caliber cartridge is designed to deliver magnum-level performance in a compact, efficient case, emphasizing flat trajectory, high velocity, and long-range capability without the bulk of traditional belted magnums. Design Philosophy and RPM Series Context The 25 Weatherby RPM follows the core design principles of the RPM family, which focus on maximizing ballistic efficiency through a rebated-rim case and modern geometry. By eliminating the belt and optimizing internal volume, the cartridge aims to provide consistent performance while fitting into standard-length magnum actions. Weatherby positions the 25 RPM as a solution for shooters seeking extended effective range in a lightweight hunting or precision rifle platform. Rifle Compatibility and Action Platforms Rifles chambered in 25 Weatherby RPM will be built on Weatherby’s Mark V action, including six-lug variants engineered to handle high-pressure magnum cartridges. Supported models include the Backcountry, Backcountry Ti, and other Mark V configurations designed for lightweight strength and accuracy. The cartridge will also be compatible with Weatherby’s Model 307 rifles, such as the Alpine MDT Carbon, expanding options beyond the traditional Mark V lineup. Ballistics, Twist Rate, and Intended Performance Weatherby lists a recommended 1:7.5-inch twist rate, reflecting the cartridge’s focus on stabilizing long, high-ballistic-coefficient .25-caliber bullets. This fast twist supports modern projectile designs intended for long-range shooting, contributing to the cartridge’s flat trajectory and retained downrange energy. Performance comparisons published by Weatherby place the 25 RPM among the faster and more efficient .25-caliber options currently available. Reloading Considerations and Case Specifications Weatherby describes the 25 RPM as particularly well-suited for handloaders. The cartridge features a 35-degree shoulder and a case capacity of approximately 72.5 grains of water, promoting efficient powder burn and consistent velocities. With a maximum overall length of 3.34 inches and 0.940 inches of seating depth, it accommodates long, streamlined bullets without sacrificing usable case volume. Compared to the 25 Creedmoor, Weatherby reports roughly 40 percent greater case capacity, translating to higher potential velocities. Weatherby has confirmed that unprimed brass will be offered alongside factory ammunition options. View full article

Kimber Expands 2K11 Line With Compensated Models Kimber Manufacturing has announced the addition of the 2K11 Comp series, expanding its high-capacity, 1911-style platform with factory-compensated variants. The new models are scheduled to debut in January 2026, roughly a year after the original 2K11 was introduced in late 2024. The expansion addresses sustained demand for recoil-mitigating options within Kimber’s double-stack 1911 lineup. Four Configurations and Size Options The 2K11 Comp series consists of four models offered in either black or stainless finishes. Buyers can choose between a full-size version with a 5-inch barrel or a Pro-size model with a 4.25-inch barrel. Each variant incorporates an integrated compensator positioned forward of the front sight. The compensator is designed to reduce muzzle rise and improve control during rapid or sustained fire without altering the platform’s core operating system. Updated Construction and Grip Module A notable update across the Comp series is the introduction of Kimber’s carbon fiber and glass-filled matrix grip module. The grip is paired with a CNC-machined stainless steel subframe coated in DLC, incorporating a proprietary shoulder intended to prevent magazine over-insertion and potential ejector damage. The design aims to balance weight reduction with structural rigidity while maintaining compatibility with the 2K11’s double-stack magazines. Features and Mechanical Details All 2K11 Comp pistols are chambered in 9mm and retain several features introduced with the original platform, including a patent-pending toolless guide rod system, external extractor, improved internal magazine geometry, and optics-ready slide. Select models are equipped with a Stan Chen Customs magwell and TAG Precision steel optic adapter plates. Barrels are crowned and fluted, using 5R rifling, and are fit to the slide to tight tolerances. Manufacturing and Availability Kimber states that each 2K11 Comp is assembled from start to finish by a single technician at its Troy, Alabama facility, where the stainless-steel slide, frame, and barrel are machined. Finishes vary by model, with some receiving DLC coatings and others offered in stainless. Retail availability is expected as early as January 2026, with immediate shipment planned following launch. View full article

Ruger Updates AR-15 Catalog Ahead of SHOT Show 2026 As the firearms industry approaches SHOT Show 2026, Ruger has announced a restructuring of its AR-15 offerings. The new Harrier series will replace the long-running AR-556 family, signaling a shift in both branding and feature set. At launch, the Harrier line consists of two rifle configurations built around a shared core platform, with differences primarily in furniture and rail setup. Initial Models and Pricing Structure Both Harrier models feature 16-inch barrels and free-floated M-LOK handguards. The base configuration is equipped with standard A2-pattern furniture, including an A2 pistol grip and M4-style waffle stock, and carries a listed MSRP of $699. A second variant, priced at $749, upgrades to Magpul furniture, specifically the MOE-K2 grip and DT Carbine collapsible stock. This model also adds a full-length Picatinny rail along the 12 o’clock position of the handguard, providing additional mounting space for optics and accessories. Manufacturing Location and Background Product images for the Harrier series display a “Proudly Made in Hebron, KY” watermark. Hebron was previously home to Anderson Manufacturing, a well-known AR-15 producer that ceased operations before being acquired by Ruger. The Harrier rifles appear to reflect the integration of Anderson’s manufacturing assets into Ruger’s production pipeline. In its final years, Anderson expanded its AR lineup and improved overall fit and finish, suggesting that the Harrier series may benefit from that experience combined with Ruger’s quality control standards. Barrel, Receiver, and Finish Specifications Both rifles use a 16.1-inch government-profile barrel with a 1:8-inch twist rate and six-groove rifling. The barrel is nitrided for corrosion resistance and longevity and is threaded 1/2x28 at the muzzle, fitted with a removable A2 flash hider. Upper and lower receivers are machined from 7075-T6 aluminum forgings to mil-spec dimensions and finished with Type III hardcoat anodizing. The lower receiver incorporates a tension screw designed to reduce play between receivers. Operating Components and Compatibility The Harrier series is configured around standard AR-15 components for broad compatibility. Each rifle includes a single-stage GI trigger, mil-spec selector, charging handle, carbine buffer, and spring. The bolt carrier group is nitrided, with a properly staked gas key. The upper receiver includes a forward assist, dust cover, and brass deflector. Ruger ships the rifles with one 30-round Magpul PMAG, positioning the Harrier line as a turnkey replacement for the outgoing AR-556 models. View full article