Core Insights - The new manufacturing hub in Southwest Virginia aims to enhance Made-in-America production and support counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) readiness with Wrap's innovative technologies [1][4][7] Economic Impact - The project, supported by the State of Virginia with $4.1 million, is expected to create over 120 new jobs in various sectors including manufacturing, engineering, logistics, and training [2][5] - This initiative is one of the most significant recent economic development projects in Wise County, contributing to the region's technology and industrial growth [2][5] Facility Details - The Norton facility spans 20,000 square feet and is designed to manufacture up to 23,000 BolaWrap 150 devices and over 150,000 cassettes monthly, with potential future capacity to double or triple output [3][8] - The facility will also include dedicated R&D, an innovation and demonstration center, and training spaces for agencies and partners [3][8] Product Focus - The facility will assemble the 1KC kinetic anti-drone cassette, a patent-pending technology aimed at addressing Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security needs [4][8] - The 1KC technology is designed for wide-area entanglement coverage and modular deployment across various platforms, enhancing multi-drone intercept capabilities [4][8] Strategic Vision - The opening of the Norton facility is a key step in Wrap's long-term growth strategy, focusing on expanding U.S. production, delivering shareholder value, and aligning with federal security priorities [7][8] - The company aims to create a direct pipeline from local talent to national defense innovation, supporting both community development and shareholder interests [5][8]

Core Insights - Wrap Technologies, Inc. is advancing its defense capabilities with the submission of its C-UAS technology, Project Merlin-1KC, for the U.S. Army's xTechCounter Strike competition, aiming to enhance military and allied defense against drone threats [2][3][4] Group 1: Project Merlin-1KC Overview - The Merlin platform and Wide Area Kinetic Anti-Drone Cassette are designed to meet or exceed U.S. Army requirements, providing scalable and low-cost defense against unmanned aerial threats [1] - Project Merlin-1KC features a modular, platform-agnostic solution that physically disables hostile Group 1 drones using lightweight, tethered projectiles [4] - The system is engineered for rapid integration across various platforms, including unmanned aerial and ground vehicles, with a production capacity of 18,000–20,000 units and a surge potential of 75,000 units monthly [5][10] Group 2: Competitive Advantage and Market Position - The anticipated retail cost of less than $60 per shot for the Merlin system aims to reverse the cost imbalance in drone warfare, enhancing operational effectiveness with a projected multi-kill capability of 6:1 or greater [10] - Wrap's participation in the xTechCounter Strike competition aligns with its long-term strategy to expand its technology portfolio beyond law enforcement into defense markets [6][8] - The company emphasizes its 85% U.S.-based supply chain, with a roadmap to achieve 100% Made-In-USA production, reinforcing its commitment to domestic manufacturing [5][10] Group 3: Strategic Vision and Future Opportunities - The submission to the xTechCounter Strike competition is viewed as a first step in extending Wrap's technology ecosystem into defense, aiming to provide reliable counter-UAS solutions for the Army [9] - The company believes that its innovative cassette-based technology positions it uniquely to deliver mission-ready solutions in contested environments [8] - Wrap's President highlighted the potential for sustainable and scalable solutions against the growing threat of unmanned systems, which could create new opportunities in defense [6]