ProTact by Haartz

1st Space Brigade’s Tactical Close Space Support is on the Move

March 19th, 2024

WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M. — Partnering with joint and coalition forces, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command’s 1st Space Brigade continues to experiment with new tactical space control technology to support the warfighter in increasingly complex and contested environments.

Soldiers with the brigade’s 18th Space Company participated in experimentation at White Sands Missile Range during Project Convergence-Capstone 4 from mid-February into early March to advance the Army space, cyber and special operations forces “Triad’s” ability to conduct space operations at the tactical edge.

Project Capstone, an experiment hosted by U.S. Army Futures Command, saw warfighters from across the U.S. military and allied countries including the Five Eyes nations – United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand – as well as France and Japan, explore the future of warfighting communications, operations and maneuver.

As part of the first phase of PC-C4, these space Soldiers experimented with a small form factor system to determine if the kit fulfilled the Army’s current demand for a ruggedized, tactical space control system.

While the brigade’s current program of record is mobile, the Army is seeking technology that allows the capability to be hand-carried by the Soldiers themselves or transported by small tactical vehicles.

“Larger space capabilities cannot effectively integrate with more expeditionary units, such as SOF,” said Capt. Noah Siegel, Triad Experimentation Team platoon leader, 18th Space Company. “Shrinking our equipment and focusing on mobility allows our Soldiers to provide space support to units of all types at or beyond the tactical edge. For warfighters on the ground, this tactical space support enables the synchronization and convergence of joint and multidomain effects to enhance lethality.”

Amid the desert scrub and sand at the base of the Organ Mountains, the 1st Space Brigade Soldiers operated the small form factor from the back seat of the utility task vehicle – driven by soldiers with the British Army Special Operations Brigade – to demonstrate how space operations crews not only support American SOF partners but integrate with friendly coalition forces.

At the tactical level, Army space capabilities, such as the small form factor, would enhance ground maneuver formations’ ability to see, sense, stimulate, strike and assess across the spectrum. Special operations forces allow space Soldiers deeper physical access into austere operating environments.

“It was great to see the similarities and differences in how space, signal, cyber, as well as U.S., U.K., and Australian SOF partners operate,” said Sgt. Jon Rizzo, 18th Space Company. “We enjoyed working with these forces and exploring where and how we can fit in.”

Though the small form factor is not an Army program of record, experimentation initiatives such as PC-C4 allow the Army to assess the suitability of certain equipment to inform future programs of record.

Data and lessons learned from the brigade’s experimentation during PC-C4 was presented at Camp Pendleton, California, to Department of Defense senior leaders, allies and partners on March 4-5.

Story by Brooke Nevins 

U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command

Light Hybrid Vehicles in the Portfolio: Rheinmetall Acquires Dutch Startup REEQ

March 18th, 2024

Rheinmetall has acquired the Dutch startup REEQ, thereby expanding its vehicle portfolio to include innovative light hybrid vehicles. At the beginning of March 2024, the technology group’s Dutch subsidiary Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V., which is part of the Vehicle Systems Division, acquired 100% of the shares in the Dutch start-up REEQ. Rheinmetall is thus expanding its portfolio of lightweight tactical vehicles and also taking the step towards hybrid technology with a fully electric drivetrain in a military vehicle. Both parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

With its vehicles, REEQ has developed a new generation of mobility that combines tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid) and is fully prepared for autonomy. The technology was developed and is produced in the Netherlands.

Currently, REEQ’s vehicle portfolio consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad, all three with exactly the same fully electric drive train. Through the acquisition of REEQ, Rheinmetall is able to serve the Dutch and European market in the field of light tactical mobility, both manned and unmanned, in combination with a microgrid solution. Rheinmetall’s industrial strength and the innovative power of a start-up complement each other. Within the Rheinmetall Group, REEQ retains its status as a start-up in the field of development. The further development and series production of these vehicles will also take place in the Netherlands.

With this acquisition Rheinmetall is responding to the many calls from Dutch politicians and defense leaders to contribute with industrial strength and specialization to the operational user and strengthening of the defense industry. With the development and production from the Netherlands, the strategic autonomy and the Dutch position in the field of military electrification and autonomy in the international defense industry has also been strengthened.

Located in the city of Ede, Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. is part of the Vehicle Systems Division and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH. Rheinmetall AG is one of the world’s leading technology enterprises.

REEQ is a Dutch start-up and has been in existence since 2018. In that year REEQ carried out a first innovation project regarding electromobility in the military sector on behalf of the Dutch Ministry of Defence. In later years, REEQ has developed further in this field of experience.

Mission First Tactical Introduces USMC Officially Licensed Drinkware

March 18th, 2024

Horsham, PA – (March 18th, 2024) – Mission First Tactical (MFT) manufacturers of state-of-the-art, USA made rifle/carbine accessories and holsters, is pleased to announce they have expanded their drinkware line to include all-new USMC Officially Licensed Drinkware in 3 popular sizes. This new USMC drinkware is not the same old design. MFT offers cool new modern designs on 32 oz. bottles, 16 oz. bottles and 12 oz. can coolers. Both the bottles and can coolers easily keep your drinks hot for up to four hours or cold for nine hours of maximum enjoyment.

“Whether it’s a refreshingly cold thirst-quencher or a piping hot brew, the MFT USMC insulated drinkware will keep your drinks at the optimum temperature,” said David Edelman, Vice President, Mission First Tactical. “The cool new designs are a perfect way to show your pride and support of our dedicated Marine Corps personnel.”

MFT’s 32 oz. bottles are large capacity, yet compact in size, making them perfect for your next mission. They feature a flip-top handle that makes them easy to carry. The 16 oz. bottles let you annihilate your thirst while keeping the elements from spoiling your favorite beverage. These vacuum-insulated bottles keep your drinks at optimum temperature. MFT Can Coolers allow you to crack open your favorite standard-size 12 oz. can and drop it in. These Can Coolers keep your beverages (not your hands) colder longer so you can always hit your target.

USMC drinkware features:

– Double-wall insulation, prevents condensation on the outside of the bottl
– Vacuum seal, locks in hot or cold temperatur
– Will not retain odor or tast
– 18/8 stainless stee
– BPA & toxin free

MSRP’s: 32 oz. $44.95, 16 oz. $29.95, 12 oz. Can Cooler $24.95

MFT Gear is designed specifically for bad-ass customers with a kick-ass mentality. Represent the USMC and look good doing so. From drinkware to apparel, MFT has you covered.

To learn more about the new USMC Drinkware and the complete product offerings from Mission First Tactical, please visit www.missionfirsttactical.com.

TacJobs – Tomahawk Performance Seeks Director of Operations

March 18th, 2024

OVERVIEW 

Tomahawk Performance – a partner company of Tomahawk Strategic Solutions – designs, develops, and manufactures technical apparel and gear to maximize mobility and enhance performance during the mission. We have created a user-centric business model to be a solutions-driven partner to special operations forces and police units engaged in no-fail special reconnaissance, direct action, and special recovery activities. We continuously strive to be mission success enablers. 

OPPORTUNITY 

Full-time employment with Tomahawk Performance Inc. as Director of Operations 

RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES 

• You support the company’s vision and partner with the CEO in setting comprehensive goals and objectives for operational and financial performance and growth. 

• You institute strategic financial management systems, procedures, and controls supporting planning/forecasting, operating and capital budgeting, cash flow, and profitability. 

• You provide accurate and timely reports outlining the operational condition of the company with actionable recommendations/direction. 

• You partner with the CEO on forging strategic partnerships and relationships with clients, vendors, and all other professional business relationships. 

• You oversee regulatory compliance (i.e., compliance with laws, registrations, certifications, attestations, and standards) with a clear objective of mitigating legal exposure and financial risk. 

• You own the IT infrastructure and identify, recommend, and implement new systems and technologies for improving operational efficacy, including commercial tools such as CRM. 

• You oversee the global pricelist and ensure our pricing strategy supports our margin goals while considering all currency, tax, brokerage, duty, and freight implications. 

• You own the warehousing, outbound logistics, and after-sales service infrastructure and maintain close integration with our supply chain. 

• You partner with the CEO to oversee the global B2B commercial program, including selecting and managing channel partners, pre/in-season sales programs, and macro-region and country strategy. 

• You support B2G contracting opportunities with the submission and execution of all RFIs, RFQs, and tenders. You work cross-functionally with the B2G Sales Manager, product and sourcing teams, and other stakeholders to ensure all contract criteria are met. 

• You establish and monitor customer support service levels, including fulfillment performance and aftersales services. 

• You help foster a growth-oriented, trust-based environment. 

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Engineering, or another industry-related field required; MBA preferred. 

• At least 5-7 years of MIL-GOV-LE industry experience including three years in management required. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

• You have a working knowledge of Microsoft’s Office Suite of applications (especially Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Teams/Skype) 

• You have a working knowledge of Apple’s iWork Suite (especially Pages, Keynote, and Numbers) 

• You have a working knowledge of the Adobe Creative Suite 

• You have experience with ERP and CRM systems. 

• You are proficient with project management methodologies and have working experience with applicable software (i.e., Basecamp, Smartsheet, Microsoft Project) 

• You have effective and efficient leadership skills, time management skills, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication skills. 

• You can travel regionally and internationally (trade shows, commercial account visits, business development activities, manufacturing facilities. etc.) 

• You proactively identify the root cause of issues and develop creative solutions. 

• You remain highly flexible and adaptable when faced with ambiguity. 

• You inspire breakthrough thinking and continuous improvement. 

• You seek the best (but sometimes not the easiest) solutions, with an unwavering commitment to do what is right. 

BENEFITS

• Medical coverage | 401K | Flexible hours | Team culture | Team environment |

Interested parties should send their resumes to: contact@tomahawkperformance.com

Raven Concealment Redefines Concealed Carry with Executive Select Series

March 18th, 2024

North Ridgeville, OH – March 18th, 2024 | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Raven Concealment Systems has launched its Executive Select Series, a new line of super-premium holsters that promises to redefine concealed carry standards. This series marks a significant shift in holster design. Unlike traditional designs, the Executive Select series prioritizes human fitment over firearm geometry. This results in increased concealment and greater comfort.

They’ve returned to the drawing board and revisited the root problems of concealed carry. The common adage says, “Form follows function.” Unfortunately, this is often not the case with manufacturing, especially with holsters. In a perfect world, a holster’s “form” would follow the “function” of optimal concealment, comfort, and accessibility.

Instead, holsters are often nothing more than shells in the shape of the gun they are designed to hold. This rigid approach follows the form of the handgun. That rigidity results from the limitations of their construction. The Executive Select Series is looking to turn that all on its head and put the focus on the end user.

Human-Centered Design: Designed to prioritize comfort and concealment, contouring to the wearer’s body.

Premium Quality: Seamless fit and finish for a premium concealed carry experience.

Innovative Holster Shape: The holster’s body shape eliminates the need for “claws” to tuck grip.

Modular Carry: Ability to nest other essential carry items within void spaces inside the body of the holster

RCS has continued advancing its manufacturing capabilities, and this new line embraces those latest innovations.  This new approach is granting them unprecedented design freedom, and one of the benefits is that it allows them to create holsters tailored to the wearer’s anatomy. Based on what we saw and heard back in January at SHOT, they have a LOT more of the Executive series to show off soon.

Go to Raven Concealment’s Executive Select page to access more information and images about the Executive Select Series (and to join the waitlist).

Dave Roberts Joins B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. as Creative Director of Marketing

March 18th, 2024

March 15, 2024 (Redmond, WA) B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc, a leading provider of Advanced Photonics, is proud to announce that Mr. Dave Roberts has joined the team as the Creative Director of Marketing.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the B.E. Meyers & Co. team,” said Mr. Roberts. “I am enthusiastic about contributing to the company’s marketing efforts for its world-class Advanced Photonics products and consider myself fortunate to be a part of such an outstanding organization.”

Mr. Roberts has acquired extensive experience in marketing and design over the last 30 years, the last 16 of which have been in the firearms and defense industry. Most recently, Mr. Roberts was the VP of Marketing and Business Development for Zev Technologies. As the new head of Marketing, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as well as expertise in marketing strategy and brand development to B.E. Meyers & Co.

Mr. Roberts was born and raised in the UK, settled in California upon his arrival to the US, and later moved to Washington state where he currently lives with his wife and two children. Dave proudly became a US citizen in 2017.

bemeyers.com

MATBOCK Monday – Graverobber Assault Insert

March 18th, 2024

Part 1 Recap: Exploring the Graverobber™ Assault Insert:

In Part 1, we took a closer look at the Graverobber™ Assault Insert, a critical component of the GRAM kit. This innovative panel insert seamlessly converts into a skeleton med panel, offering unparalleled versatility with its thin padded shoulder straps. Whether clipped or slung, this insert ensures medics can adapt to any mission requirement with ease.

Part 2: Integrating the Graverobber™ Assault Insert into the GRAM Kit:

Now, let’s shift our focus to how this insert seamlessly integrates back into the Graverobber™ Assault Medic Kit, ensuring swift and efficient deployment in critical situations. Additionally, we’ll explore the latest updates unveiled at Shot Show 2024, elevating the functionality of the GRAM kit to new heights.

The MATBOCK® Ethos:

At the core of the GRAM kit lies the ethos of “Lighter Faster Warriors,” embodied by its manufacturer, MATBOCK®. Utilizing MATBOCK Ghost® material with Tegris reinforcements, this kit ensures lightweight performance without compromising on durability. The inclusion of a soft case further enhances its versatility, enabling secure storage of critical medical supplies, including narcotics.

Versatility in Action:

One of the most impressive aspects of the Graverobber™ Assault Medic bag is its unparalleled adaptability. Whether mounted to an ALICE-compatible frame, worn using integrated straps, or zipped onto a carrier’s back panel, this bag offers unmatched versatility in medical load carriage. Its jumpable, water-resistant design bridges the gap between assault bags and en-route care, facilitating seamless transitions between different operational scenarios.

Tailored for the Mission:

The expandable design of the GRAM kit empowers medics to tailor their loadout to specific mission requirements, ensuring optimal efficiency and readiness at all times. Every aspect of this meticulously designed med bag has been crafted with the everyday challenges faced by medics in mind, making it an indispensable companion on the battlefield.

Conclusion:

As we strive to redefine the standards of military gear, the Graverobber™ Assault Medic Kit stands as a beacon of excellence, empowering medics to fulfill their crucial role with confidence and precision. Stay tuned for future updates as we continue to push the boundaries of innovation in military gear. If you’re interested in this or other MATBOCK products, check out www.matbock.com.

Flosi Takes His Place as the 20th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force

March 18th, 2024

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. (AFNS) —

Chief Master Sgt. David A. Flosi was formally installed March 8 as the 20th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force.

In remarks after the formal “Change of Responsibility” ceremony in which he assumed the job from retiring Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass, Flosi emphasized both the opportunity before him and what it means to the Total Force at a time of dramatic change and challenge across the service.

“As I assume this role, I’m aware of the challenges ahead,” Flosi said. “We live in a rapidly evolving world, where new threats emerge with alarming frequency, and the demands on our Air Force continue to grow.

“While demanding, I am confident in our ability to rise to the occasion. I am confident because over the course of my career, time and time again, I have witnessed the dedication and professionalism of our Airmen,” he said.

Flosi’s installation as the highest-ranking enlisted noncommissioned officer in the Air Force completes a total overhaul of senior military leaders for the service. Gen. David Allvin was installed as Air Force chief of staff on Nov. 2 and Gen. Jim Slife officially became Air Force vice chief of staff on Dec. 29.

All three senior leaders, along with Department of the Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, will be instrumental in successfully establishing far-reaching plans to “reoptimize” the Air Force to better confront China and other modern-day adversaries.

Allvin stressed that effort in welcoming Flosi during the dignified ceremony, which also included comments from Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and, prior to that, Air Force chief of staff. 

“Dynamic, fast-paced environments require agile, determined leadership – that’s exactly what Chief Flosi brings to the fight,” Allvin said. “We’ve got work to do, and I know Chief Flosi is ready to move out on reoptimization to enhance our readiness and mold our one Air Force.”

In his remarks, Kendall offered a glowing tribute to Bass and provided clear guidance for what he expects from Flosi.

Bass, he said, “has served over 30 years in the Air Force, and we are an infinitely better organization because of your service. She’s been a standout leader at every level.

“Chief Flosi, you’re going to have to fill some pretty big shoes. I look forward to working together and to everything you have to offer. I want to welcome you to an incredible team. … We will need your experience and your perspective to make sure the needs of our Airmen and their families are always at the forefront of all of our efforts,” Kendall said.

Brown echoed Kendall in his praise and admiration for Bass.

“Jo, I’m so glad I hired you. You’ve been an inspiration for me. We were able to break barriers together,” Brown said, referring to their shared histories in which Brown was the first African American to be named Chief of Staff of any branch of the military and Bass’s selection as the first woman to serve as a Service senior enlisted advisor in the history of the United States military.

“You’ve been an inspiration to me. You’ve been an inspiration to our Air Force; you’ve been an inspiration to our nation,” Brown said.

Flosi steps into the job being vacated by the retiring Bass, who senior leaders said set the standard by which all subsequent Chiefs will be judged.

“Chief Bass’s passion for Airmen and their families has defined her time as our 19th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force,” Allvin said. “Her tireless work on their behalf has propelled our force forward. Even after over 30 years of dedicated service, I have no doubts that she will continue to be an advocate for Airmen and airpower moving forward.”

In her remarks at the dignified ceremony, Bass highlighted memories and achievements from across her 31-year career. She thanked a list of people who helped her at every point, including her husband Rahn, her parents, and a large group of Air Force colleagues who served as mentors and role models.

She directed special praise to Brown, who selected her to be chief master sergeant of the Air Force when Brown served as chief of staff.

“General Brown, chairman, thank you for hiring me as your wingman and chief. The best words you shared with me were ‘proceed until apprehended.’ And I did just that,” she said.

“I may have gotten apprehended once or twice, maybe three times. In any case, you let me be me and get after the things that matter to our Airmen and their families. It’s been an honor for Rahn and I to serve alongside you and Sharene,” she said.

Flosi’s new job is similar to his previous post but on a larger, more high-profile stage. He arrived at the Pentagon from Air Force Materiel Command at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, where he served as the command chief master sergeant. That role was similar in many respects to the role he now assuming. At AFMC, he is the senior enlisted leader and the primary advisor to the commander on all matters regarding the readiness, training, professional development, and effective utilization of the command’s 89,000 total force Airmen.

Like his predecessors, Flosi pledged to lock arms with Airmen to help them – and the Air Force – thrive and succeed.

“Today, as we stand on the dawn of a new era, we recognize we are serving at a time of consequence. It is imperative we acknowledge the urgency of the challenges we face,” he said.

Later in his remarks, he added, “Fellow Airmen, my commitment to you and to our Air Force is unwavering. As we navigate the complexities of great power competition and seek to optimize our force, I pledge to be your wingman.”

Prior to his tour at Wright-Patterson AFB, Flosi served as the command chief master sergeant at the Air Force’s Sustainment Center at Tinker AFB, Oklahoma.

Flosi began his Air Force career in 1996 as a nuclear weapons specialist. That focus expanded over the years to include various leadership duties in conventional and nuclear munitions, as well as missile operations, program management and test and contingency operations.

Like Bass and previous CMSAFs, Flosi will be the public face for Air Force personnel to those in all levels of government. He will be a personal adviser to Allvin and other senior leaders, both military and civilian, and will be expected to provide insight on issues regarding the welfare, readiness, morale and proper utilization and progress of the Air Force’s entire cadre of Airmen.

Flosi emerged as the clear choice from a group of the most highly respected, experienced graduated command chief master sergeants from across the Air Force’s global operations, officials said. These leaders were selected based on breadth of experience, recommendations from senior commanders and performance across each candidate’s Air Force career.

Story by Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs