Coalition leadership convenes in Washington, D.C. to discuss defense industrial base priorities and welcome new members to advance the WPRC mission supporting the warfighter
MARBLEHEAD, MA (October 29, 2025) — Last week, the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) held its annual Board of Directors Meeting and Membership Welcome Reception during the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C. The events brought together defense industry leaders and government partners to discuss critical issues impacting the U.S. personal protective equipment, organizational clothing, footwear, textiles, and uniform and industrial base.
The WPRC’s Membership Welcome Reception, held at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C., served as a valuable networking opportunity for coalition members, congressional staff, and senior defense leaders. The event underscored the coalition’s ongoing commitment to sustaining a strong, Berry Amendment–compliant supply chain that ensures U.S. servicemembers are equipped with the highest quality American-made gear and equipment.
Guest speakers at the event included Brigadier General Troy M. Denomy, Program Executive Officer Soldier, and Colonel Tony Lindh, Project Manager Soldier Survivability, who both provided timely updates on Army Transformation and the evolving relationship between industry and government stakeholders.
General Denomy addressed the shifting global security landscape and how emerging technologies—such as counter-drone warfare and signature management—will define future protective equipment needs for the warfighter. Colonel Lindh discussed the ongoing reorganization within PEO Soldier and the establishment of JIATF 401, emphasizing how industry can best engage with these new structures and support mission success through innovation and collaboration.
As the WPRC expands its efforts, innovative companies have continued to join the association. Recently, ArmorCorps, Dryout, Gehring Textiles, Hope Global, High Speed Gear, Image Authority, Norafin, Safety and Security International, and Tencate Protective Fabrics have joined with over 70 other companies to add their voice to the advocacy efforts of the WPRC. The added impact of these industry leaders is critical to advancing the WPRC mission to support the equipment and advanced clothing needs of the Armed Services and Department of Homeland Security.
ArmorCorps – Veteran-founded strategic consulting firm specializing in federal business development, government relations, and market intelligence. www.armorcorps.com
Dryout – Manufactures patented moisture-wicking materials designed to prevent rust, corrosion, and electrical damage in military firearms and tactical gear. https://www.dryout.com/
Gehring Textiles – Produces advanced fabrics for military use, including ballistic, flame-resistant, and insect-repellent materials for uniforms and protective gear. https://gehringtextiles.com/
Hope Global – Manufactures parachute cords, boot laces, uniform webbing, and other textile components for U.S. military and government applications. https://www.hopeglobal.com/
High Speed Gear – Designs and manufactures modular, American-made tactical gear including pouches, belts, holsters, and medical kits for military, law enforcement, and tactical professionals. https://www.highspeedgear.com/
Image Authority – Provides managed uniform programs, supplying uniforms, insignia, and related apparel for U.S. government and defense agencies. https://www.imageauthority.com/
Norafin – Develops advanced nonwoven fabrics for military applications, including flame-resistant, ballistic, stab, and cut-resistant materials for protective gear and uniforms. https://www.norafin.com/us/
Safety and Security International – Supplies mission‑critical support equipment and integrated safety, communications, and power systems for U.S. military and defense operations. https://safesecint.com/
Tencate Advanced Armor – Major provider of personal protection solutions for law enforcement, federal agencies, and defense programs. https://us.tencatefabrics.com/
These new members of the Coalition will help the industry continue its momentum to bolster American manufacturing and ensure that those who serve our country are continuously provided with the most advanced uniforms and equipment possible.
About the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC):
The WPRC is the unified voice of advocacy for the individual and unit-level equipment needs of the warfighter and peacekeeper. Founded in 2009, the coalition represents companies that design and manufacture advanced combat uniforms, body armor, footwear, and equipment for the Armed Services and Department of Homeland Security. For a complete listing of WPRC member companies, visit www.warriorprotection.net.
Brigadier General Troy M. Denomy, Program Executive Officer Soldier, addresses WPRC members and industry leaders during the 2025 Membership Welcome Reception at AUSA in Washington, D.C.
Colonel Tony Lindh, Project Manager Soldier Survivability (PM-SSV), speaks to WPRC members about Army Transformation and industry collaboration during the 2025 AUSA Membership Welcome Reception.
WPRC Executive Director David Costello and U.S. Army Colonel Tony Lindh, Project Manager Soldier Survivability at the 2025 WPRC Membership Welcome Reception during AUSA in Washington, D.C.