Tactical Tailor

Archive for July, 2019

Fissile Group x The Design Aggregate Announce Partnership

Tuesday, July 23rd, 2019

Alex Warburton is standing on top of a cliff. It’s 60 feet to the bottom and in between him and a safe landing are two giant snow covered pillows covered in at least a meter of snow. But he can’t see them. He can see the nose of his snowboard and the space that he would like to land a ride away and that’s all.

Down and to the side is Dano Pendygrasse. He just weaseled his way through a steep icy gap between a giant old growth cedar tree and the aforementioned cliff to gain a vantage point where he can take a picture. “IT GOES!” He yells. They exchange details in a verbal shorthand that would mean nothing to anyone who was listening.

A moment later Alex yells “DROPPING!” and points his board over the edge. He connects the snowy dots of the pillows and lands in the transition and rides away. Dano’s camera captures it all.

When you build trust in scenarios where injury or death are real possibilities, the rest comes easy.

Fissile Group and The Design Aggregate are proud to announce a strategic partnership. Over the last couple decades they have worked with brands like Adidas, Arc’teryx, Burton, Monster Energy, Rip Curl, and dozens more, and bring a deep endemic knowledge to design, brand development, and strategy. The award winning products, campaigns and content they have developed have had a global impact creating lasting impact for their clients.

“This collaboration increases capabilities of both camps and positions FG x TDA as a leading resource for clients looking for a connection to Outdoor and Action Sports markets in the Pacific Northwest.”

-Alex Warburton. Principal, The Design Aggregate

“It’s been very fulfilling to work with Alex and his team again after all these years. His experience in the space is impressive and The Design Aggregate process has been a natural fit with Fissile Group. We’re very excited about the work we’ve begun and look forward to taking on more interesting challenges.”

-Dano Pendygrasse. Founder, Fissile Group.

For inquiries please reach out to us by email or DM on your favourite social channel.

THE DESIGN AGGREGATE

WITH OVER 30 YEARS of combined professional product design & development experience, The Design Aggregate team brings a smart, open & collaborative process to your organization. Our creativity is born straight out of our own passions, aspirations and lifestyles. We are the ever-evolving outdoors & action sport consumer consciousness, often initiating shifts and trends within the cultures themselves.

A number of our designs have re-written industry standards and thrust our clients to the forefront of their respective product categories.

FISSILEGROUP

Fissile Group was formed to build an apparel line for a client, from idea to consumer, including marketing strategy, apparel design, content development, and everything in between.  Since then we have focused heavily on early phase brand development and strategy. We primarily work with small to medium businesses to develop their brand from an idea or a product, to a strong foundation with a vision for growth.

New Materials from Whiskey Two-Four

Tuesday, July 23rd, 2019

ACRONYM fabric now available in 58″ wide ranger green

WTF are pleased to offer solution dyed ranger green as our latest color in 58″ wide ACRONYM (Advanced Composite Rugged Optimized NYlon Material) 500D / 500D nylon laminate fabric.

ACRONYM laminate fabric was developed specifically for laser cut applications.  Black, ranger green, and coyote brown are made with solution dyed, milspec fabrics.  Multicam ACRONYM is made with genuine Multicam fabrics.

Made in the USA from USA made materials.  Berry compliant. Ships rolled. 18oz / sq yard

5 inch elastic MIL-W-5564 milspec solution dyed Berry compliant Type II Class I

WTF are excited to add 5″ MIL-W-5564 milspec, solution dyed, Berry compliant type II class I elastic to our offerings.

Manufactured with Invista Cordura nylon; this elastic is IR compliant, abrasion resistant, and will color match beautifully with other textiles made from Invista Cordura.

In stock and ready to ship

Congrats On The New Digs Edgar Brothers!

Tuesday, July 23rd, 2019

And congrats to Dave Tomlinson on his 30 years of service to the brand!

“System Panzergrenadier”: Rheinmetall Modernizing Puma Infantry Fighting Vehicle and Other Equipment for NATO Spearhead VJTF 2023

Tuesday, July 23rd, 2019

Order volume close to half a billion euros

Rheinmetall is taking on a key role in equipping the NATO spearhead Very High Joint Readiness Task Force 2023 (VJTF 2023), which will be furnished by the German Bundeswehr. Contracts have now been awarded to a consortium for the “System Panzergrenadier VJTF 2023” project, in which Rheinmetall’s share comes to over €470 million, including value added tax. Work has already begun and is set to continue through to the end of the VJTF readiness phase in 2024.

On 11 July 2019, the Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-service Support awarded a corresponding contract to ARGE Puma, a consortium consisting of Puma manufacturer PSM Projekt System Management GmbH – a joint venture in which Rheinmetall holds a 50% stake – and Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH. Subcontracting within ARGE will take place shortly.

“System Panzergrenadier” links the Puma infantry fighting vehicle – the mainstay of the German Army’s mechanized infantry – with the modular Future Soldier – Expanded System (IdZ-ES) soldier system, in an advanced, network-enabled warfare environment.

Included in the “System Panzergrenadier VJTF 2023” package is a comprehensive combat performance upgrade of forty-one Puma infantry fighting vehicles, coupled with additional measures for improving communication between the infantry fighting vehicles and dismounted infantrymen. For Rheinmetall, the total value of this order comes to €258.3 million, including value added tax. The systems will be delivered at the end of 2020/beginning of 2021.

Among other things, the package also encompasses complete logistic support of the VJTF Pumas for a period of five years, i.e. spare parts, special tools and spare parts logistics. Also included is a new generation of digital radios for the infantry fighting vehicles as well as integration of the MELLS multirole light guided missile system, significantly expanding the capabilities spectrum of Puma. New daylight and thermal imaging cameras and a colour display feature in the upgrade too. Optimized day and night vision will increase the range of reconnaissance, while simultaneously widening the crew’s field of view. Furthermore, new training resources will enable the unit to train in a highly realistic manner.

Closely linked to the hardware of the new optronic systems and monitors for the infantry fighting vehicles is the contract for development of the “Vision Enhancement, Chassis”, which is already underway. Including value added tax, it represents sales of €67.2 million, including value added tax.

Furthermore, Rheinmetall is equipping the mechanized infantry companies of the VJTF 2023 with “TacNet”, its battle management system (BMS). In addition, an initial lot of ten platoon versions of the “Future Soldier – Expanded System” soldier system will be brought up to modern VJTF 2023 standard. Improved communication between the Puma crew and the dismounted infantry section will result in a continuously updated, uniform common operational picture. This way, Rheinmetall gives mechanized infantry a command-and-control capability that extends from the company commander to the individual rifleman on the ground. These modernization moves will mean incoming orders for Rheinmetall worth €146.5 million, including value added tax.

“System Panzergrenadier VJTF 2023” substantially enhances the fighting strength of the VJTF 2023. At the same time, Rheinmetall views these measures as a template for further modernization and digitization of the Bundeswehr.

Modernizing the command and control capabilities of complete mechanized infantry companies and bringing the IdZ-ES up to VJTF 2023 standard involves modifying the hardware and software. Dispensing with the “electronic backbone” is one key innovation. Others include advanced new radio systems for dismounted troops and infantry fighting vehicles, which result in improved command capabilities as well as enabling secure transmission of large amounts of data.

During development of the new vision systems and their integration into the Puma, an initial lot of five sets of prototype assemblies will be fabricated and integrated into five standard vehicles. These tasks are to be complete by 2021. Verification will then take place at the Bundeswehr’s technical centres by 2023.

Furthermore, digitization of the vision technology will proceed in tandem with implementation of NATO Generic Vehicle Architecture (NGVA) in the Puma. It forms the foundation for the future sensor-to-shooter nexus. Already underway, the networking of sensors and effectors in individual vehicles will soon enable the networking of sensors and effectors in entire units and formations. As a result, the Puma will be one of the world’s first digitized combat vehicles.

High Speed Gear Awarded Contract for Marine Corps Rifle Magazine Pouch

Monday, July 22nd, 2019

SWANSBORO, NC (July 2019) – High Speed Gear® has been awarded the contract to provide Infantry Combat Equipment (PM ICE), Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM) with 150,000 double rifle magazine pouches. The HSGI® X2R TACO® MOLLE Pouch was chosen for its preferred functionality, versatility and weight.

The HSGI® X2R TACO® will handle any type of rifle magazines. The Double Decker® design allows the user to carry 2 magazines in a single pouch that takes up only 3” of horizontal space on the platform. The X2R uses injection-molded polymer brackets, Cordura® front and back, shock cord lacing, and a thin HDPE separator to ensure adjustability and user perfect fit to maximize deployment capabilities.

“Over the years, all branches of the military have used High Speed Gear. We are honored to have been selected by the United States Marine Corps to provide 150,000 X2R TACO® pouches as the solution for the requested modular double rifle magazine pouch,” said Bill Babboni, vice president of sales and operations. “It was exciting to learn that HSGI was selected especially since Marine preference played a sizable part in the selection process.”

For over 20 years, High Speed Gear® has been dedicated to building the best American-made tactical gear with distinct and innovative products such as the TACO® and the Sure-Grip® Padded Belt. Our products are designed for the highest level of comfort, functionality, versatility and are always user driven to meet the operational needs of a wide variety of end users.

www.highspeedgear.com

Spartan Blades, LLC Announce the Formation of Pineland Cutlery, Inc with KA-Bar Inc

Monday, July 22nd, 2019

Spartan Blades, LLC of Southern Pines, NC and KA-BAR Knives of Olean, NY today announce the formation of Pineland Cutlery, Incorporated. Pineland will offer a wide range of cutlery for retail and distribution. The joint company will be headquartered in Southern Pines, North Carolina.

KA-BAR Knives a leader in the cutlery industry for over 120 years is announcing its partnership with Spartan Blades, LLC an award-winning maker of premium cutlery to form Pineland Cutlery, Inc. This partnering will combine the core competencies of both companies to bring a diversity of cutlery offerings to the knife market.

“Spartan Blades brings numerous industry awards, a solid reputation for quality, and close military ties to Pineland, Inc.” Said John Stitt, President of KA-BAR “With this partnership, we will leverage our manufacturing knowhow with an established company known for premium products. It is a great opportunity for both companies to grow and become a better company for both employees and customers.”

“Historically, cost and limited manufacturing capabilities have been a hurdle for Spartan Blades.” Said Curtis V. Iovito, Co-owner of Spartan Blades, LLC. “We are proud to be partnering with one of the largest and most storied companies in the U.S.. By partnering with KA-BAR we are expanding our footprint internationally and will benefit from their manufacturing and distribution expertise.”

“KA-BAR brings long-term distribution relationships, manufacturing expertise, and operational expertise, positioning Pineland Cutlery well in our industry.” Said Mark Carey, Co-owner Spartan Blades

3rd Bn, 75th Ranger Rgt Jump Test SPEAR Packs

Monday, July 22nd, 2019

FORT BENNING, Georgia — Army Rangers here are evaluating three Mystery Ranch backpack variations by jumping out of U.S. Air Force C–130 Hercules aircraft.

The three commercial off the shelf variants tested by Soldiers with the 75th Ranger Regiment’s 3rd Battalion included an Assault Pack, Patrol Pack, and Recce Pack.

Forty-seven Soldiers from the 75th Regimental Special Troops Battalion conducted 45 static line infiltration training jumps on Benning’s Fryar Drop Zone, using the backpacks as part of their combat equipment load.

The new backpacks range from 3,200 cubic inches for the Assault pack to 6,200 cubic inches for the Recce pack, according to Lt. Col. Dave Dykema, with the U.S. Army Operational Test Command’s (OTC) Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate (ABNSOTD) based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

He said the new backpack variations provide modularity to support various mission requirements not supported by the Army’s legacy All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment (ALICE) backpack.

“The ABNSOTD was professional and user friendly,” said Capt. Joshia Auerbach, the 75th’s Regimental Air Officer.

“They responded to our need rapidly, and tested the equipment in a manner that was quick and efficient for the Ranger Regiment, expertly incorporating testing into our training schedule.”

“These rucksacks provide a modern load carrying solution that can now be certified for static line airborne operations,” said Staff Sgt. Jake Leveille, 75th Regimental Air NCO.

Spec. Thomas Lewis, Squad Rifleman, said he understood the importance of operational testing the new backpacks.

“Participating in this test provided me with insight on how the Army ensures our equipment is safe and suitable, before fielding it to the force,” he said.

“Soldiers enjoy getting involved in training hard during operational testing,” said Dykema.

“They have the opportunity to operate and offer up their own suggestions on pieces of equipment that can impact development of systems that future Soldiers will use in support of combat missions,” he added.

Highly-instrumented test drops help test overall survivability of equipment used during airborne operations, according to Dykema.

By SFC Ian Seymour, Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate, U.S. Army Operational Test Command

Editor’s Note: The test packs are the SPEAR program packs, selected for issue by USSOCOM which were being certified for static line jumps.

Max Talk 30: How to Not Shoot Your Buddies! Drills to Avoid Fratricide!

Monday, July 22nd, 2019

This is the thirtieth installment of ‘Max Talk Monday’ which shares select episodes from a series of instructional videos. Max Velocity Tactical (MVT) has established a reputation on the leading edge of tactical live fire and force on force training. MVT is dedicated to developing and training tactical excellence at the individual and team level.

It is vital to understand how to react to effective enemy fire, but to do so in a way where you do not endanger your buddies or bystanders. It’s not good enough to be able to shoot fast, you have to be able to target discriminate and implement safety angles between you and members of your team. This video is an explanation of the problems of fratricide, safety angles, and a suggested drill to help you train. Do not confuse tactical cool-guy shooting with real tactical context. Train to win the fight!

Detailed explanations can be found in the MVT Tactical Manual: Small Unit Tactics.

Max is a tactical trainer and author, a lifelong professional soldier with extensive military experience. He served with British Special Operations Forces, both enlisted and as a commissioned officer; a graduate of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Max served on numerous operational deployments, and also served as a recruit instructor. Max spent five years serving as a paramilitary contractor in both Iraq and Afghanistan; the latter two years working for the British Government in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

Website: Max Velocity Tactical

YouTube: Max Velocity Tactical