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Archive for February, 2009

Protective Combat Uniform Source

Saturday, February 28th, 2009

USSOCOM’s Protective Combat Uniform is very popular and equally difficult to source. In fact, much of the specialized equipment issued to our Nation’s elite is difficult to purchase due to limited production.

US Elite Gear has been in business for over eight years and since its inception offered the latest issue products, often as exclusives. US Elite Gear has The entire PCU line in stock including several levels in both original and Gen II designs. They also offer the Sierra Designs SF Sleep System as well as the new Bates Tora Bora Mountain Boots issued to SOCOM.

In addition to many hard to find government issue items, US Elite Gear also offers Excalibur Products which include new clothing and pack designs.

Check out US Elite Gear on the web.

Big Dog Quadraped Robot

Friday, February 27th, 2009

From the Benning Report comes this look at the latest incarnation of the Legged Squad Support System (LS3) technology which was transitioned from DARPA. Manufactured by Boston Dynamics, the 220 lbs robot is designed to accompany foot Soldiers in the most arduous of terrain to bear heavy loads. The Big Dog can kneel and follow Soldiers across terrain by “feeling” the ground through sensors built into its legs.

Smith Optics Elite Division

Thursday, February 26th, 2009

Smith Optics Elite Division

Smith Optics recently launched the Elite Division to focus on the military and tactical LE markets. The Elite Division is offering two lines of products, the Combat Eyewear Protection System and the Tactical Sunglasses Program.

As part of the Combat Eyewear Protection System Smith offers the Outside the Wire (OTW) Goggle, Aegis Eye Shield and interchangeable Rx system.

Smith OTW Giggle

The OTW Goggle’s lens meets and exceeds MIL-DTL-43511D as well as ANSI Z87.1 standards and provides 100% protection from UVA/UVB rays. The lens is also compatible with Smith Elite’s Rx system. Additionally, the OTW features FRAG face foam, a specially designed flame resistant anti-microbial goggle foam.

Smith Aegis Eyeshield

The Aegis Eye Shield features lenses that meet and exceed MIL-PRF-31013 as well as ANSI Z87.1 standards. They also have a quick release lens system designed for fast lens exchange. The Aegis is compatible with the interchangeable Rx system and protects against UVA and UVB rays.

Smith Optics Elite Division - Tactical Sunglasses Program

Additionally, they have adapted three classic Smith styles for day to day, non-combat wear as part of the Tactical Sunglasses Program. All three of these designs, the Director, Hideout, and Hudson meet and exceed the ANSI Z87.1-2003 requirements. as well as 100% protection from UVA/UVB/UVC rays.

For more information visit Smith Elite on the web.

Integrated Tourniquet Belt from BHI

Wednesday, February 25th, 2009

Blackheart International

BHI has introduced a patent pending Integrated Tourniquet Belt crafted to enhance the capabilities of the common rigger’s belt. The rigger’s belt finds its origins in the A7A strap used to rig cargo for airdrops. Unserviceable straps were adapted for use as a more robust belt than the issue cotton web version. Later, purpose built variants were manufactured with life support buckles and “V” rings used to tie the wearer into aircraft. For years the rigger’s belt has been used as a field expedient tourniquet but did not incorporate a windlass nor a buckle capable of maintaining pressure. BHI has solved these problems.

BHI Integrated Tourniquet Belt

Designed to be manipulated with either one or both hands, the ITB doesn’t pinch, bind, or rope due to the wide Type VII nylon used in its construction. Additionally, the Integrated Tourniquet Belt uses 6061 aluminum to ensure a light, yet incredibly strong buckle and windlass system. The windlass stows out of the way for regular wear of the belt but is right at hand when the ITB is applied as a tourniquet due to the velcro closure system. The buckle is engineered specifically for this application unlike fasteners found on other belts and anchor points are sewn at regular intervals into the belt.

BHI Integrated Tourniquet Belt - Use Photos

Many field tourniquets can’t be used repeatedly for training but the robust design makes the ITB not only perfect for daily wear but also makes it suitable for regular training. Imagine carrying a tourniquet with you at all times integrated into a common use item.

To purchase the ITB, visit BHIgear.com.

Bearse USA

Tuesday, February 24th, 2009

Bearse USA

Although relatively unknown, Bearse USA has been in the contract sewing business since 1921 and maintains a 50,000 square foot facility in Chicago, IL. Their employees average over 10 years of experience and 20 or even 30 years is not unheard of.

Recently, they’ve been supporting the Army’s OTV and IOTV contracts and have produced over 200,000 vests and/or components. As Bearse USA does not produce their own line of tactical goods they are poised to support a wide variety of businesses who require surge support, particularly as part of a government contract. They have found that there are three major challenges to companies trying to fulfill these contracts: large quantities, short delivery schedules, and delays in awards. Bearse serves to augment a company’s capacity and to help them overcome these obstacles in order to get over the hump.

bearse_1-small.jpg bearse_2-small.jpg bearse_3-small.jpg

Additionally, Bearse provides a great opportunity for the emerging company with some innovative design ideas based on real world experience. Although such a firm may be short on production know how, they can contract Bearse to facilitate production and make their concepts into reality.

What’s more, they offer capabilities not found in other contract sewing houses including a full time sample shop capable of delivering production quality samples. Additionally, they offer a fully equipped mechanical shop capable of designing and manufacturing equipment, labor-saving devices, work aids, tacker clamps, etc.

For production, they offer over 150 machines including single needle, double needle, long arm, cylinder arm, bar tackers, and programmable tackers. They can even provide screen printing services.

For more information contact Bearse USA
3815 W. Cortland St.
Chicago, IL 60647 USA
(773) 235-8710
(866) 6-BEARSE
www.bearseusa.com
info@bearseusa.com

Department of Homeland Security Buy-American Provision

Tuesday, February 24th, 2009

The Department of Homeland Security Buy-American provision for domestically manufactured textiles and apparel was included in stimulus legislation signed into law by President Obama last week. While there are exceptions, these provisions will become effective on all DHS contracts 180 days after signing (around August of 2009). This essentially brings DHS on par with the Berry Amendment which restricts DoD purchases of textiles to American sources.

Kifaru Launches 2009 G2 Line

Monday, February 23rd, 2009

Kifaru, manufacturers of specialized military packs release their Generation 2 (G2) line today. Kifaru has not raised prices in nearly three years but increasing costs for materials and transportation have forced them to revise their price tags. However, they are upgrading their line’s features in order to help soften the impact. Those familiar with Kifaru products will get the most from this report and I encourage readers who have not taken a look at Kifaru to check out their website.

Overall Changes
Across the board, they have made several improvements including use of thicker, dual density foam lumbar pads, featuring their anti-slip PackLock technology as well as providing velcro patches on the packs for removable tags. Additionally, all of the packs, except for the Tailgunner waist packs, will now come with an interior hang loop for water reservoirs. Finally, they have switched over to ITW Quick Release shoulder strap buckles on most of the packs to eliminate strap slippage.

Omni Suspension Packs
With the exception of the Tailgunner and Scout waist packs all Omni Suspension packs will have external, raised torso pads, along with new anatomical dual density foam lumbar pads using Kifaru’s anti-slip PackLock material. The Tailgunner will also feature just the anatomical foam lumbar pad with the PackLock material.

Armor Grip
In addition to the numerous upgrades made to individual packs, Kifaru is also releasing two packs incorporating their new Patent Pending Armor Grip technology; the AG1 and AG2.

Kifaru Armor Grip Kifaru Armor Grip

Armor Grip was developed to facilitate carrying heavy loads when wearing armor while mitigating pack sway. The torso pads are stowable and can be rolled out and secured to the sides of the frame, which create rigid stabilizers that cup around the armor. There is no need for torso pads when wearing armor, so by rolling them to the outside, the pack/frame can now ride even closer to your back. If you’re not using armor, just roll the torso pads back down onto the frame, where they use a velcro attachment system. Both of these packs use the same 24″ Duplex frame with the Armor Grip.

Kifaru AG 1
The AG1 pack uses a Navigator type bag, with almost all the same features as the Navigator, and the same capacity of 4000ci.

Kifaru AG2
The AG2 pack uses an EMR bag that is 2″ shorter, and it has a capacity of 6500ci.

New Look
In conjunction with the new product launch they are also unveiling a new look for their website which incorporates drop down menus in order to improve navigation. Additionally, the hunting line is also receiving the upgrade and will be launched next week.

Kifaru packs are made in the USA and come in Coyote, OD, Foliage, Black, as well as UCP and Multicam at a slight additional charge.

Be sure to visit Kifaru to check out all of the enhancements to their line.

Arc’teryx LEAF Launches Online Store

Sunday, February 22nd, 2009

New Arc’teryx LEAF Online Store

In order to improve support for their LEAF program participants, Arc’teryx has launched an online store. Aside from speeding up order times, the site is directly tied to inventory so you will know if the item you are ordering is actually in stock in the correct color and size.

Eligibility for the LEAF program is fairly narrow but includes:

Military
• All active duty service personnel and units

Law Enforcement
• All active law enforcement officers and agencies

Other
• Select other government personnel and agencies
• Security personnel and companies on government contracts

To sign up visit the application page. Once you have received your confirmation email, log in to the online store located at leaf.arcteryx.com.

So get on the ball. The Multicam Combat Jackets that sold out immediately last year are back in stock and we don’t expect them to last for long.

Third Eye Video Camera

Saturday, February 21st, 2009

Hammacher Schlemmer Third Eye Video Camera

Hammacher Schlemmer offers the Third Eye Video Camera. It captures 320 x 240 resolution images at 30 fps and up to 1,200 still images and six hours of video can be saved onto a 8GB micro SD memory card (included). There is also a built-in microphone. The rechargeable battery provides up to 2 1/2 hours of continuous operation from an eight-hour charge using the included USB cable.

The 1-1/2″ sphere comes with a headband that can be adapted to a helmet or the camera can also be used in a static situation and set to record images and video when it detects movement, preserving battery life.

Order from Hammacher Schlemmer.

Helmets? Bah…You Need a Weave

Friday, February 20th, 2009

Life Saving Weave

ABC News reports that a woman in Kansas City was shot in the back of her head by her ex-boyfriend but that the projectile was stopped by her hair weave. While so far there is no information as to caliber or distance, her weave was in fact very dense and she sated that she could feel the heat from the bullet. I wonder what would have happened if she had brushed it out that morning. Think of it as Kevlar for the noggin.

Garrett Container Awarded DF-LCS Contract

Friday, February 20th, 2009

The 37th Contracting Squadron at Lackland AFB TX has awarded Garrett Container Systems, Inc. an award for delivery of Defensor Fortis-Load Carrying Systems. This is a base period of 12 months with four one-year option periods worth up to $16,522,924.13 for the base period and four options. Interestingly, the award stipulates that the procurement is for Air Force Security Forces only so it appears that other organizations will not be able to leverage this contract vehicle.

GCS DF-LCS

DF-LCS is a MOLLE-compatible load carrying system designed specifically for Air Force Security Forces and first issued in 2004. Although it originally came in OD, under the new contract DF-LCS will be offered in the Air force Digital Tiger Stripe pattern. Each Security Forces member will be issued a Rifleman’s kit as well as a Multi-Mission Pack. Additional modules for Team Leader, M-203 Grenadier, M-240 Gunner, M-249 Gunner, and K9 Handler are also available and considered an integral part of the DF-LCS kit. Each SF member is also issued a Black rolling equipment bag to store thr kit.

DF-LCS is available online from Garrett for government clients as well as Air Force members. A version of DF-LCS is also available for commercial purchase from Diamondback Tactical.

Photo courtesy of GCS.

UVA Students Developing New Armor

Friday, February 20th, 2009

Military.com reported in a recent article about a team of undergraduate students at UVA working on a new armor plate. Interestingly, they claim it will be “The new armor design will be lighter, more flexible and better able to withstand armor-piercing bullets than the 30-pound vest now used by the Army.” Sounds like a new take on scalar armor considering the team hopes to contain as many as 32 rounds of armor piercing. According to National Guardsman and student Jeff O’dell, their design philosophy is to contain the cracks in ceramic materials formed as it stops threats in order to prevent back face deformation.

Magpul MS2 Sling/ASAP Plate Now Available

Thursday, February 19th, 2009

Magpul

Magpul unveiled their new MS2 Multi-Mission Sling and ASAP Ambidextrous Sling Attachment Point at SHOT Show. They are now available on their website. The MS2 is currently only available in Black.

Magpul Multi-Mission Sling Magpul Ambidextrous Sling Attachment Point

To order, visit Magpul.

Soldier Systems Daily – The Admin Stuff

Thursday, February 19th, 2009

Soldier Systems Blog Logo

If you want to write for Soldier Systems Daily its pretty simple. Just contact the Editor with your article idea. Seriously, that’s all you have to do. Generally, we want an article that is a couple of paragraphs long and answers the basic who, what, where, when, why, and how. Pictures are also helpful but make sure you have the permission of the owners. We are happy to give you a by-line but since thus far, this is a non-wealth generating pursuit, there will be no payment. However, so far everyone has wanted to keep it anonymous. One caveat for vendors, we will happily post press releases but the impact is much greater if someone checks out your product and writes an article on it.

Interested parties can contact Soldier Systems Daily at admin@soldiersystems.net.

Inclusion of products or information on Soldier Systems Daily is for informational purposes only and in no way construed as an endorsement unless otherwise stated.

All content is copyright 2009 Soldier Systems Daily unless otherwise credited. Further use of content is prohibited unless specific permission is provided by Soldier Systems Daily. Corporate logos for companies featured on Soldier Systems Daily are the property of their respective owners and are used solely for illustrative purposes.

Naval Air Systems Command Issues BAA

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

Naval Air Systems Command has issued a broad agency announcement for warfighter developmental protective clothing and devices.

Areas of interest include but are not limited to:

(1) protection against G-induced loss of consciousness, loss of situational awareness, spatial disorientation, and high altitude hypoxia

(2) micro/nanotechnology applicable to life support and protective devices

(3) protection against hypothermia/hyperthermia

(4) auxiliary or integrated human cooling and heating systems

(5) integrated helmet mounted displays, multi-mode helmet vision system technology

(6) advanced filter/device development for eye and / or sensor protection

(7) warfighter / equipment compatibility

(8) breathing systems and advanced concept approaches for current and future applications

(9) crash protection, advanced restraint systems (all axes of restraint), and seating concepts

(10) emergency egress/escape concepts such as but not limited to improved signaling/locating, thermal signature reduction, and day/night cloaking technologies

(11) integrated communications systems

(12) hearing protection and communication capabilities in high noise environments

(13) integrated flotation systems

(14) human strength enhancement technologies

(15) garment textiles/materials, flame resistant / melt-proof fibers, webbings, water-proof, high-stretch, breathable fabrics, durable, malleable, lightweight conductive-network fabrics, low-bulk/high flexibility vascular compression mechanisms for acceleration protection, fast-response cooling/heating textiles

(16) crew/workstation design

(17) lightweight, portable power sources, recharging and scavenging technologies

(18) other personal protective technologies

For the full solicitation visit fedbizopps.gov.

Bullet Dodging Armor Patent Withdrawn

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

Just the other day we published a story about IBM’s scheme to push the wearer of their new armor out of the way of a bullet with their name on it. This odd tale has taken another turn, this time, IBM has withdrawn its patent application. Apparently, the publicity was too much, either that or someone realized how hard this was going to be. At any rate, it’s gone, at least for now.

EOTAC 25% Off Sale

Tuesday, February 17th, 2009

EOTAC

As a thank you to our readers at the Soldier Systems Daily, EOTAC is offering a special 25% off discount. For the next two weeks you can take 25% off your order of EOTAC Operator Grade Tactical and Discreet clothing when purchased at www.eotac.com. The discount starts today, Tuesday, February 17 and runs through Monday, March 2 and only applies to gear purchased directly from http://www.eotac.com. Simply enter the special EOTAC forum discount code, CODE# SSN0209, at the time of check-out to receive your discount.

Shoulder Pocket Wallet™ from Spec Ops Brand

Tuesday, February 17th, 2009

Shoulder Pocket Wallet™ from Spec Ops Brand

Spec Ops Brand listened to Soldier feedback about needing a wallet that would fit into the shoulder pockets of their ACU. More than just another simple ID card holder, the Shoulder Pocket Wallet™ has two exterior ID windows as well as a third interior slot. Additionally, the wallet will fit a message pad or passport. The bi-fold design zippers shut to secure contents and the “Dura-Lastic” organizer holds pens, markers, as well as standard size USB thumb drives. There is also an internal zippered pocket to protect your challenge coin.Finally, the wallet has an integral “pull-tab” to facilitate removal from an ACU shoulder pocket. It can also be used to carry the wallet around the neck.

Shoulder Pocket Wallet™ from Spec Ops Brand

The wallet is made in the USA from 1000D cordura and available in UCP, Black, and Coyote. Like all Spec Ops brand products, it is guaranteed for life.

To order visit Spec Ops Brand. Spec Ops Brand products are also available from many military outfitters.

BHI Offers Gransfors Breaching Tools

Monday, February 16th, 2009

Blackheart International

Swedish built Gransfors Smide breaching tools are some of the finest available and Blackheart International has just added them to their line up.

Gransfors Large Tactical Ram

The products are quite diverse and go beyond the standard “Halligan and Ram” offerings of other lines by leveraging experience in the military, police, and EMS arenas. Tools include bolt cutters, sledge, break and rake tool, steel and wooden door breaching tools, two sizes of rams, as well as a high jack. The tactical bar is an adaption of the TOVE crow bar manufactured by Gransfors since the 1940s.

Gransfors High Jack

The high jack was adapted from a product used in the for the forestry industry for over 30 years with the addition of extending tubes, an adapter crown, adapter U-hook, and a movable base with ring for strap attachment.

To order any of the line visit www.BHIgear.com.

USMC Boot Resole Program by NuShoe

Sunday, February 15th, 2009

NuShoe offers footwear refurbishment programs for several commercial vendors including Belleville, makers of the Marine Corps Hot Weather boot. It just so happens that NuShoe offers a special boot resoling program for specifically for Marines to repair the issue Hot Weather boot.

USMC Boot Resole Program by NuShoe

The before and after picture provided by NuShoe shows an actual pair of boots that they have resoled and repaired. Advantages to resoling include lower cost than purchasing new boots as well as avoiding the need to break them in. NuShoe will resole a pair of hot Weather boots for $50.00. What’s more, local cobblers cannot replace polyurethane mid-soles so the two to three week turn around time is very quick.

To learn more about NuSHoe visit them on the web at www.NuShoe.com.

Heavy Cover™ Canteen Cup Lid from BQM

Saturday, February 14th, 2009

Brigade Quartermaster has been outfitting American troops with innovative products for over 30 years. The Heavy Cover™ Canteen Cup Lid is just another in a long line of kit that makes me scratch my head and say, “Why didn’t I think of that?” I can remember boiling water in a canteen cup over a fire with a piece of bark on top as an expedient lid. Not to mention all of those times that I would get to the bottom of my coffee and find plenty of dirt. This thing is pure genius. My only question is, where were these things 20 years ago?

HEAVY COVER™ LID from BQM

What I think is really cool about this design that snaps in place much like a Tupperware lid is that it incorporates a drinking spout. The lid available in Black and is made in the USA.

To order visit BrigadeQM.

IBM Patents “Matrix” Bionic Body Armor

Friday, February 13th, 2009

neo-dodging-bullets.jpg

Remember watching the character Neo in the Matrix dodge bullets? Well apparently this has also been an obsession of engineers at IBM who were just awarded a patent for “bionic body armor” designed to scan for projectiles fired from a firearm. If one is detected, the system would deliver a shock to the muscles causing a swift, reflexive action away from the bullet. Something tells me that is going to leave a bruise.

Figure from Patent

The present invention relates generally to the protection of an individual against a projectile propelled from a firearm. More particularly, the present invention relates to a body armor system and its method of use that is capable of detecting a projectile propelled from a firearm, computing the trajectory of the projectile, and moving the individual out of the path of the projectile to avoid being hit.

Patent at US Patent Office

5.11 Tactical DPM 3-in-1 Jacket

Friday, February 13th, 2009

5.11 Tactical has been offering exclusive products with retail partners for a couple of years now. Now in the UK, they offer a version of their popular 3-in-1 Jacket in British DPM. This is a good option for British troops awaiting the new PECOC issue.

5.11 Tactical DPM 3-in-1 Jacket

Essentially, three jackets in one, the garment features a waterproof/breathable outer shell and a removable inner fleece jacket. They can each be worn alone or together and mate via main zipper and a low profile strap system in the wrists. The handwarmer pockets are also fleece-lined and there is a removable hood that rolls up into the collar.

Another feature not often found in military clothing is side zippers which allow access to your duty belt. This is particularly useful for MPs or those who carry a sidearm. Additionally, the chest pockets are compatible with 5.11’s Back-up-Belt System™ or other velcro backed pouches.

Available from a variety of UK retailers including Drop Zone Supplies.

Photo from Drop Zone Supplies.

Blauer Tactical Systems – S.P.E.A.R.™ Instructor Course

Thursday, February 12th, 2009

Blauer Tactical

During the week of January 26, more than 40 trainers from the military and law enforcement community converged on the Blauer Tactical Systems (BTS) world headquarters in Virginia Beach, VA, for instructor certification in the popular close quarter counter ambush program, S.P.E.A.R. System™.

Blauer Tactical Systems - S.P.E.A.R.™ Instructor Course

I was on hand for the last day of the week long course. Attendance ran the gamut from local LE to Federal Agencies to some of our nation’s most elite military units. Additionally, there were some international students on hand and during brief interviews after the graduation, regardless of origin, man or woman, the training was a resounding hit. Often you can write that off to post training high, (the students literally went from a final round of hand to hand exercises at full speed in High Gear™ to graduation) but this was an instructor course. Most of the students had studied several disciplines yet everyone sang the praises of the S.P.E.A.R.™ system.

As a testament to the value of the training, one local corrections officer paid his own way to the class and worked his schedule in order to attend training. I have no doubt that the skills he learned in this class will one day protect him or one of his coworkers.

Tony Blauer, BTS CEO also commented stating, “It’s a powerful and exciting thing to see so many operators, DT and combatives trainers together at our facility.” He went on to add “It’s very rewarding to know Blauer Tactical is helping our warfighters and law enforcement community.”

As I have said in the past, one of the unique things about Blauer’s training philosophy is that he has developed a self-defense program based on psychology, physiology and kinesiology. The name S.P.E.A.R. says it all; Spontaneous Protection Enabling Accelerated Response. The system exploits the body’s natural responses to violence and danger. This survival mechanism, dubbed: Startle-Flinch Response has been scientifically integrated into a series of neuro-muscular drills that teaches individuals how to convert their instinctive reactions into protective and combative tactics.

Visit www.blauertactical.com to check out Tony Blauer’s blog and sign up for his newsletter with the latest training news as well as helpful tips. If you would like to receive notices about future training courses, please click this link and fill out the information.

Photo from Blauer Tactical.

Latest PECOC News

Wednesday, February 11th, 2009

Moving in a new direction from past policy of issuing two identical jackets, plans for the new PECOC clothing systems call for issue two different garments. The reasoning is simple. During the Cold War, conventional wisdom held that the Soldier would be without resupply or laundry services for long periods of time so redundant clothing made sense. But current operations call for access to support services and more flexibility for the individual Soldier.

Both jackets will outwardly appear the same but will differ by insulation and the inclusion of pit zips. Please note that these are not official names and are only used to describe the two versions.

Standard Temperate Field Jacket Based on an upgraded version of the SF Tantalus system (which features a mesh drop liner in order to maintain an air gap between the outer material and the wearer for insulative purposes). Normal features of quick drying, IRR compliant, map pockets, compass holder, wired hood. etc etc. For field operations inside the UK the Jacket is well suited for 6 months of the year or for high activity levels. They have chosen to maintain the chest pockets even though they are not well suited for armor use as they are very useful for wear without armor. Although the garment is “shower proof” it is designed to integrate with the lightweight waterproof. Interestingly, the lightweight waterproof jacket does not have chest mounted pockets for improved interface with armor.

Encapsulated Field Jacket It is similar to the Filed Jacket but includes a wind proof and waterproof liner so does not need to interface with the lightweight waterproof. It is intended for static duties, range days, cold environments, etc.

The intent is to provide the Soldier with the right garment for the right application. No longer will the British Soldier have to wear a compromise that is too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter.

Additionally, for hot climates there is also the new jacket lightweight (shirt) and UBACS which is similar to the US Army Advanced Combat Shirt.

Additional clothing system components include a buffalo jacket, softie jacket, thermal underwear, t-shirt, and an improved “Norgie”.