ATK announced today that it has acquired Eagle Industries, long-standing icon of the Soldier Systems Industry. While terms of the agreement were not disclosed, the company expects the acquisition to add more than $80 million to Fiscal Year 2010 revenues. Eagle Industries will become part of ATK’s Armament Systems group.
Archive for March, 2009
Alliant Techsystems (ATK) Acquires Eagle Industries
Tuesday, March 31st, 2009Something’s Happening, Something Wonderful
Tuesday, March 31st, 2009This site launched on May 17th of 2008 with a post of the same title. As DNS servers update over the next few days everyone will get a chance to see our new look. We’ve kept the same news-style that has made us so successful but added some sponsorship opportunities in order to further improve our capabilities and coverage.
We’ve also done a few things like adding our logo as well as making it easier to contact us. So you won’t be seeing those pesky admin notices anymore telling you how to email us.
We look forward to serving you even more in 2009 and beyond.
The Best € 3,95 You’ll Ever Spend
Tuesday, March 31st, 2009Well maybe not, but this one is so odd we had to show everybody. Imagine a “Royal with Cheese” in a can. In German that’s “Cheeseburger in der Dose”. At any rate, it’s interesting to see what the European Backpacking community is eating.
Order from TREK’N EAT. If you dare…
Back from Retirement – the Biafra Mile Run Pack
Monday, March 30th, 2009
The original Urban E&E bag is back! Ok, so now it’s a pack and before it was a pouch but that is just semantics. The important thing is that Eagle has brought it back.
Eagle started with the classic design and updated materials and a few design features. The BMRP carries everything you need to stay alive in a hostile city, or a friendly one for that matter. It has provisions for a pistol, spare magazine, map, survival equipment, passport, and other essentials.
The universal holster accepts most common semi-auto pistols and the single magazine pouch is also sized for most common semi-auto pistol magazines. Behind the holster platform is a full length pocket with a Velcro closure for added security. The wings open in a manner similar to some IFAKs. The right wing folds out to expose a clear see through map case, and the left wing features a mesh zipper pocket. The bottom flap features a mesh zipper pocket with a hidden pocket behind the seam for further storage. The rear of the BMRP has a low visibility pocket allowing access to a passport and other travel documents without having to open the rig for access.
The removable waist belt and adjustable shoulder straps are low profile and a simple baggy shirt makes this item disappear beneath your clothing.
We really want to applaud Eagle for manufacturing more and more products from 500D Cordura. It offers an excellent balance between weight and durability. Available in Grey or Khaki from Eagle Industries.
TNVC SAR-3PS
Monday, March 30th, 2009
TNVC has released a new thin ring SAR-3PS unit that is only 1/4″ wide (ring portion) to fit in very tight spots. Naturally, the “S” at the end of the mount name denotes slim. The slim unit was designed since so many rings take up a lot of real estate on the primary scope and can be difficult to fit properly. Just like the already successful SAR-3P it is a 30mm design. TNVC also offers a SAR-4 which features a 34mm ring.
Prior to the new slim design, the SAR-3P improved on the earlier SAR-3 as it has one Picatinny slot cut into the center slot and the rest is Weaver. The SAR-3P is also a 1/4″ shorter than the previous SAR-3.
To order, visit Tactical Night Vision Corporation. As always, TNVC has some great package deals on offer.
Triad Tactical Has the Coolest Mugs
Monday, March 30th, 2009Not only does Triad Tactical carry some of the hardest to get Eagle products but they also have a cool 8 oz mug.
It is a double wall construction and features a carabiner handle so it will clip to your gear or belt when not in use.
Available from Triad Tactical.
10-8 Performance Magazine Base Pad for S&W M&P
Monday, March 30th, 2009Anyone who owns a S&W M&P knows that the stock magazine base plates are less than ideal. Machined from aluminum which eliminates cracking and breakage seen with plastic pads, these S&W M&P base pads are works of art. A lot of thought was put into the design including a shortened front to provide a more positive index in the hand during reloads. This also eliminates the snagging of mags in adjacent pouches. Additionally, the plate is scalloped on the front and sides to provide purchase for the extraction of stuck magazines. Finally, dimples on bottom allow for the marking of magazines. Available for the .45 and 9/.40.
Available from 10-8 Performance.
“Sixth Sense” at TED
Sunday, March 29th, 2009At Soldier Systems Daily, we love technologies that will drastically change how we do business. At this year’s TED, MIT’s Pattie Maes and Pranav Mistry demonstrated a wearable device developed in the Media Lab’s new Fluid Interfaces Group that combines a camera, projector, and computational device to create an interactive tool similar to the one used in the movie “Minority Report”. While still crude, imagine what this could do for military applications.
Enjoy the video.
AK47-Locating ‘Smart Dust’ Helmets
Sunday, March 29th, 2009According to Vanderbilt University’s “Exploration” magazine, researchers at the Institute for Software Integrated Systems (ISIS) have developed a gunshot-locator net. By networking a helmet-mounted acoustic sensor system among a team of Soldiers, the system will correlate data collected by a larger number of sensors. The system is designed to not only provide the location of the shooter but also the type of projectile.
Read an interesting synopsis of the work from “Exploration” magazine. A paper from the team is also available here.
215 Gear Visor Update
Sunday, March 29th, 2009The remaining colors are now available so the lineup includes UCP, Multicam, Desert Digital, and Coyote.
They are available at 215 Gear.
Hardigg Storm Cases and Inserts
Sunday, March 29th, 2009If it wasn’t enough that Hardigg (Pelican) has become the preferred storage and transit case provider due to superior closures and a lower price point than their competitors, they have something else to offer; removable soft cases.
The Nylon Weapons Case Insert was designed as a complimentary Discreet Weapons Case for the hard Storm Case. Manufactured from 1000D Cordura, the case features carry handles as well as a detachable shoulder strap. The case is also divided into two sections with a padded divider and both inner walls are covered in PALS to attach accessories for storage and transport. The Soft Case Insert comes with two MOLLE Muzzle Cups, four Velcro Straps, MOLLE Utility Pouch, and Shoulder Strap.
Available in Black or Coyote Tan from Blackheart International.
UK Operational Note Books from Rite In The Rain
Sunday, March 29th, 2009Rite In The Rain, makers of waterproof paper, have developed a special version of their popular Notebooks specifically for UK forces. Each Green colored waterproof sheet is perforated for easy removal and features a grid to assist with making operational sketches and clear notes. Additionally, the last 16 pages serve as an Aide-memoire. See below for a sample.
Check out this video from RV Ops to see the advantages of Rite In The Rain products.
Rite In The Rain products are available in the UK from RV OPS.
New TAC-EYE® LT Display from Vuzix
Sunday, March 29th, 2009
We introduced you to Vuzix last Fall. At the time they were working on their new TAC-EYE® LT Display.
The new display mounts to standard ballistic sunglasses found on the Approved Products List (Revision, ESS, and Oakley) and is designed to meet MIL-STD 810F: Shock, Vibration, Water, Dust, Drop, Temp. The Display features a 30° Horizontal Field of View, SVGA+ (852×600) Color AMOLED, and is capable of displaying SVGA, NTSC, RS-170, and PAL formats.
The TAC-EYE® LT is offered in three configurations; Video, VGA, and VGA/Video. Depending on which configuration you choose will determine which of the accessories your system will come with. There is a Mouse, Battery Box, and Inline Control Pad.
For more information contact Vuzix.
Alpine Tactical – Resources for the Military Athlete
Sunday, March 29th, 2009
Alpine Tactical is owned and operated by a former USAF Pararescueman and provides a variety of training services.
Alpine Tactical offers three contract courses for qualified students:
-Adverse Terrain Operations
-Basic High Angle Rescue
-Military Fitness Instructor
In addition to the formal courses of instruction, they provide a myriad of resources for the individual Warrior. For example, the Military Fitness Manual is fast becoming a standard text for Warriors looking to improve their potential. Look for a future article on this subject.
Additionally, Alpine Tactical are members of the International Kettlebell & Fitness Federation (IKFF) and promote Kettlebell training which has become popular with those training for and already in elite units. They also sell Cera rehydration products, Kettlebells, and physical training instructional DVDs.
Visit Alpine Tactical for an update rundown on all of their services. Military be sure to inquire about discounts.
Mayflower is Taking Orders
Sunday, March 29th, 2009The bugs have been worked out and Mayflower Research and Consulting, LLC’s website is ready to accept orders. For real.
Eagle Industries Releases Soft Shell Jacket
Sunday, March 29th, 2009
Over a year ago at SHOT Show 08, Eagle had a prototype Soft Shell Jacket hanging in their booth. At last year’s OR Summer Market we saw a much refined version of the Jacket which by that time had seen quite a bit of field use.
The production version of the Soft Shell Jacket has just been released. The three season garment features a technical fit and is crafted from Schoeller® WB-400, a 4-way stretch fabric with 3Xdry treatment to enhance wicking and water resistance. This fabric also offers offers 98% wind protection.
Design features include:
• Contoured back hem
• Velcro® wrist adjustments
• Large hand pockets with zippers
• Bottom hem adjustment pulls in pockets
• Zippered armpit vents
• Right/left chest and bicep pockets with zippers
Available in Black, Khaki, Navy, and Red from Eagle Industries.
Galea – Future Dutch Helmet
Sunday, March 29th, 2009The Dutch military is working to field a new helmet by 2011. The modular concept from the Integrated Head Protection Project team of the Dutch Ministry of Defense’s Ordnance Corps, began with a survey of 500 Soldiers. Details revealed that those in the field desired the ability to wear hearing as well as eye protection whether or not they were wearing a helmet. Additionally, as you can see from the illustration, modularity in design is central to the development effort. The concept has a great deal of merit. In addition to exchanging information with the Canadian military, the program won an innovation prize at a recent trade show in Prague. The program team is currently seeking an industry partner to further development.
Galea is the Roman name for Helmet.
SLIVER Medic Pack from S.O. Tech
Sunday, March 29th, 2009
S.O.Tech has just introduced the SLIVER Slimline Medical Backpack to it’s line of tactical medical gear. Many of their medical products are already standard issue for USSOCOM medics. The super slimline design (3” when folded) is ideal for medics involved in vehicle or aircraft operations where room is limited. It is also well suited for urban operations where a medic must negotiate tight spaces. The pack zips closed and can be carried with convenient backpack straps, carry handles at the top of the panel, or is designed to integrate as an insert for the current issue Mission Medical Pack or Mission Pack System. Designed to be hung on a wall or laid on the ground when unzipped, the Pack is well organized. To help ensure organization, each of the pouches is identified via high visibility labels. The pack is really a system consisting of a stiffened panel with multiple removable pouches, a Davis Emergency Airway Roll, and the SOF-issue Medical Aid Pouch Insert to allow medics to customize their load. A zippered vinyl window on the outside holds packing lists and other documents. Currently available in Coyote Brown and made in the USA.
The SLIVER Slimline Medical Backpack is available from S.O.Tech.
SOFIC 09 Registration Begins
Sunday, March 29th, 2009The three day conference is designed to provide industry with a venue to learn about USSOCOM’s acquisition system as well as upcoming procurement opportunities. Registration for attendees has opened. Additionally, there are still booths available and sponsorship opportunities available for exhibitors. This year exhibitors will be allowed to sponsor individuals for the tradeshow at $25.00 per badge. The show is one of the best available with exhibitors focused specifically on the SOF market.
For registration information visit SOFIC 09.
OTB DesertLite/JungleLite Available for Pre-order at Tidewater Tactical
Sunday, March 29th, 2009The DesertLite and JungleLite Boots from OTB are now available for pre-order from Tidewater Tactical.
Both the DesertLite and JungleLite share the same production features but each includes a slightly modified color scheme to suit the environments it is intended for. Inspired by the classic US GI Jungle Boot, the stain resistant Microfiber Suede upper with breathable nylon panels hearkens back to a time tested design modernized with the latest materials and construction techniques. Mesh ventilation ports are sewn directly into the boot and won’t fall out or corrode. Likewise, the reinforced fabric lace loops aren’t prone to failure or corrosion and the Variable Sausage Laces stay tied the entire mission.
As with all OTB footwear special attention has been paid to the footbed and sole. The bedrock of the boot is the high traction non squeak outsole and molded EVA midsole unit. Siping on each outsole lug produces a series of thin slits across a rubber surface to improve traction in wet or icy conditions. Additionally, reinforced climbing rubber inside toe helps when scaling walls. A full length composite molded shank provides support for carrying a heavy loads and the dual density cushioned footbed is lined with mesh for increased wicking and foot comfort. These boots are well suited for wet environments as even the footbed is perforated to allow water drainage.
The DesertLite comes in Tan and the JungleLite is available with a Black heel/toe and either Black or OD upper.
Tidewater Tactical is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business providing quality tactical equipment to the military, civilian agencies, and other select customers. They maintain a presence at Naval Operations Base – Norfolk’s Serve Mart in order to provide direct support to US forces located in the Tidewater of Virginia and can be found on the web at www.tidewatertactical.com.
National Match Style Rear Sight for 1911 from 10-8 Performance
Sunday, March 29th, 2009
10-8 Performance has released a new National Match style Rar sight for 1911 pattern pistols designed to fit stock slide dovetail with no machining. The sight is CNC machined from hardened Rc32 4140 bar stock for improved durability and the .140″ wide U notch allows fast alignment with bead insert style front sights. The rear face is serrated at 40 lpi to reduce glare. Additionally, it is contoured and dehorned for comfortable handling and carry and comes finished in Matte Black Oxide.
Available from 10-8 Performance.
Battery Caddy from GG&G
Wednesday, March 25th, 2009
Three models of Battery Caddies are now available from GG&G. The Personal Caddy is available in AA 4-Rack and CR123 4-Rack configurations in OD Green color. The AA 12 Pack holds 12 AA batteries and offered in OD Green or Rescue Orange colors. Finally, the Original Battery Caddy stores 12-AA, as well as 4-AAA, 2-C, and 1-9 volt battery. It is equipped with a hanger and comes in Caution Yellow and Rescue Orange.
To order visit GG&G.
Pentax Releases Green DSLR
Wednesday, March 25th, 2009We’ve been looking at new cameras to help enhance the look of the site’s content and ran across this today. Pentax is releasing a Green version of their popular DSLR.
This model is functionally identical to the $800 K-m (or K2000). Unfortunately, it’s a limited edition run only for sale in Japan.
Canted Foregrip Mount from BHI
Tuesday, March 24th, 2009
The Canted Foregrip Mount features a 10 degree cant which, when mounted on a fore-end rail equipped AK-47 accommodates the loading and unloading of magazines. This 2nd generation canted grip adapter comes with a Tango Down Vertical Battle Grip but allows the use of any grip that attaches to a Picatinny or Weaver rail. While designed specifically with the AK family of weapons in mind, it will fit any Mil Std 1913 rail in order to acquire a more ergonomic grip.
The mount also features a sling mounting plate for push-button sling-swivels as well as a “cut-out” for rail-mounted flashlights. Manufactured from aluminum, the fore-grip mount attaches to the rail via locking screws (loc-tite suggested).
To order visit BHIgear.com.
Please note: Shipments allowed to USA only. Export of the grip is strictly prohibited without a valid export license issued by the U.S. Department of State, Office of Defense Trade Controls, prescribed in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR)
Computers That Even Soldiers Can’t Break
Tuesday, March 24th, 2009From “National Defense” magazine’s online edition comes this article on new displays. “Computers That Even Soldiers Can’t Break” details work being accomplished by the Display Center at Arizona State University. The goal is to produce flexible displays that are cheaply manufactured and come in rolls.
