The Raptor Tactical NVG Mount gives you a low profile, yet durable option to mount your NVG’s and other helmet mounted items, like cameras and lights. ?
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Made from impact modified composite nylon 6 with 30% fiberglass fill, the mount incorporates a tie down cord point.
The profile reduces the risk of snagging, and breaking during missions. Mounting hardware and LockTite is included?.
Compatible with most Rhino mounts on the market.
www.raptortactical.com/home/254-shroud
Earlier this year, K-9 Cody was vying for the Law Enforcement category of the American Humane Hero Dog Awards. Thanks to public support, she was selected and now she is in competition for the program’s equivalent of Best In Show.
K9 Cody is a local working dog here in the Tidewater of Virginia. In fact, if you’ve been to Busch Gardens over the past few years, you’ve probably seen her.
She started life as an explosive detection dog and made her way back to the states where she’s been all over the place.
The American Humane Hero Dog Awards® is an annual, nationwide competition that searches out and recognizes America’s Hero Dogs.
Vote at herodogawards.org/dog/k-9-cody.
Last summer we told you that a men’s version of the Under Armour Breeze running short was coming. Well, it’s finally here.
Made from GORE-TEX Infinium fabric, it’s soft on the skin and dries quickly. uA has added mesh panels for added breathability and built-in an anti-odor treatment prevents the growth of odor-causing microbes. Finally, there are reflective panels for low-light runs.
Offered in Black, Halo Grey and Cinna Red in sizes Small – 3XLarge.
www.underarmour.com/en-us/p/tops/mens-ua-breeze-short-sleeve-t-shirt/1350086
Atlantic Signal recently received a significant order from the BATF Special Response Teams for 440 custom tactical communication systems.
Having been a long-time customer, the ATF Special Response Teams once again turned to Atlantic Signal to address their newest tactical comms requirements. The ATF had updated radios and helmets and, as a result, needed to address those updates with communications gear that worked with both the new radios and helmets. Further, the selection of the company’s new VIPER 1 push-to-talk, gives the Bureau the flexibility to add more capabilities in the future including additional/different radio models, vehicle and aircraft intercom communications, smartphone integration, radio cross-banding and chat programs.
The Bureau chose two push-to-talk solutions; the company’s popular single comm Invictus push-to-talk with hard-wired Motorola APX coiled cable as well as the previously mentioned VIPER 1 PTT including plug and play APX radio cables.
Head worn systems ordered include the exclusive Atlantic Signal 3M/Peltor ComTac V headset in Olive Drab featuring an ambidextrous, noise canceling boom microphone, over-the-head removeable band & Team Wendy EXFIL helmet mounts with quick release back plate. The ComTac V is the next generation Peltor ComTac headset featuring an Atlantic Signal custom manufactured downlead cable with PTT interface. The Bureau also ordered both single and dual comm Atlantic Signal Lo-Vis R23 kits. The kits were designed for use as a ruggedized upgrade to the traditional 2 and 3 wire kits traditionally used by law enforcement. Both kits can be used with both push-to-talks purchased. The dual comm/dual ear Lo-Vis kit can be connected to the company’s single comm Invictus PTT, allowing the end-user to receive incoming radio comms in both ears. The same Lo-Vis kit can be connected to the VIPER 1 PTT and when a single radio is connected, the end user will receive incoming radio transmissions in both ears and when two radios are connected to the VIPER 1PTT, the incoming audio will automatically be split (right worn radio in right ear / left worn radio in left ear).
“It is a privilege to have the continued trust of the Bureau of Alcohol and Firearms Special Response Teams. The ATF has been purchasing from us going all the way back to the 1990s. Obviously their communication needs have changed dramatically over the past 25 years that we’ve been doing business with them and we have worked tirelessly to keep up with their ever-changing requirements, just as we have with literally thousands of other customers. At this crucial and unprecedented time in our nation’s history, it is truly an honor to have the continued trust of this Federal Law Enforcement agency. We will continue to strive to meet their expectations throughout the coming years,” stated Randall Hedrick, President and Managing General Partner of Atlantic Signal.
Atlantic Signal is based out of Topeka, KS where they develop, design, manufacture and sell tactical communications and accessories. The company started in 1989 with a focus on tactical law enforcement (the company was then known as New Eagle International). Today, thirty-one years later, the company’s clients include US Customs and Border Patrol, Naval Special Warfare, NYPD ESU, DEA, MARSOC, US ARMY, US Marine Corps, AFSOC, US Coast Guard and US Secret Service among thousands of military and law enforcement clients around the world.
The new Inversion products are the perfect complement to the existing Massif base layer assortment; they are engineered to provide unparalleled performance across multiple environments with the flame-resistant protection you’ve come to know and count on from Massif.
The specially blended yarn plus the addition of spandex generates improved range of motion, incomparable next-to-skin softness, and extraordinary recovery for wash durability with no unsightly “bag outs.”
Sweat is rapidly wicked away from the body through a superior moisture-management system scientifically engineered for faster dry times. This results in a highly breathable garment that allows the wearer to fully focus on the mission. To top it all off, industry-leading pill resistance combined with an advanced antimicrobial platform significantly boosts long-term wearability.
“Our customers have repeatedly asked us to create an extraordinary base layer at a competitive price,” said Darci Knobel, Vice President of Customer Experience. “Our Textile and Technology team, in collaboration with Apparel Design and Development, rose to the challenge for the launch of our Inversion Lightweight and Midweight Base Layers. One touch and you’ll be sold.
A few cycles of wear and you’ll be touting your new favorite base layer.”
The flame-resistant Inversion base layers are comfortable, affordable and mission ready. Inversion is offered in several colorways, including: Tan 499 and Tan 498 on the shelf today; as well as Black and Navy coming in late 2020. The line comes in lightweight t-shirts, long-sleeve crews and bottoms, as well as midweight long-sleeve crews and bottoms.
For more information on Massif, visit www.massif.com, or see what the company is up to on Instagram and Facebook.
Brigantes are the exclusive military distributors for Helix Tactical in the UK, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Bahrain, as well as working with our partner, Mountain Horse with the supply of Helix Tactical products into the USA.
The Tactical Renegade is a comfortable and durable all-round tactical climbing harness. Generous amounts of padding provide support, and feature a mesh fabric for breathability. An internal load spreading plate gives effective lumber support, and keeps the Renegade comfortable on hanging belays and long climbing days.
Fully adjustable waist and leg loops help the Tactical Renegade fit over any layering system for use in all seasons. Slidelock buckles give a speedy and secure fit. A floating waistbelt keeps the padding and gear loops centralised, ensuring comfort and keeping gear within easy reach.
Seven gear loops make room for the biggest rack, and are positioned to ensure gear remains easily accessible. Two Vault slots let you carry dedicated ice protection.
For long mountain trad pitches to multi day mountain epics, the Tactical Renegade is a secure and comfortable all round harness.
The Tactical Renegade comes in a range of tactical colours including Black, Multicam Original, Multicam Arid and Multicam Alpine.
If you are looking for more information on Helix Tactical products contact:
for international sales: international@brigantes.com
for UK sales: warrior@brigantes.com
Or visit us: brigantes.com/collections/harnesses to set up an account and few the full range from Helix Tactical
THE DUAL NATIONS App
THERE IS A DIFFERENCE OF COURSE!
Hazmat Incidents typically comprise unplanned, smaller scale accidental and non-weaponized events, whereas CBRNe missions respond to the deliberate use of warfare agents often within the context of planned operations, in a pre-determined battle-space.
BUT….
Crossover occurs in many areas; same vendors, use of equipment, methods of response, detection, decontamination and of course in a terrorist incident – mutual aid post a domestic attack scenario. It makes absolute sense then that operators, professionals, commercial organizations and interested parties share and learn from each other with this command bond and understanding.
Defense Equipment Company is proud to affiliate with the hugely successful Hazmat Nation is now joining forces with the new CBRNe Nation to provide DUAL nationality to the two disciplines! Dual nationals owe allegiance to two Nations. “They are required to obey the laws of both countries, and either country has the right to enforce its laws.”ecome a Citizen of both nations – NO Passport
For more information visit: www.hazmatnation.com
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —
In the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks which marked the beginning of the Global War on Terrorism, U.S. service members saw an increased spike in deployments that has ultimately sustained its high tempo for nearly two decades.
For the men and women of the 17th Special Tactics Squadron, since their initial response to the GWOT in October 2001, there have been no breaks in deployments and combat operations for over 6,900 days in support of Operations IRAQI FREEDOM, ENDURING FREEDOM, FREEDOM’S SENTINEL and RESOLUTE SUPPORT.
Day in and day out, members of the unit can be found scattered around the globe, bringing the fight to the enemy’s front door. These never-ending actions are one of the many that directly reflect the testament of the heritage, courage and sacrifice of the unit that can only be foreseen to continue.
“The 17th STS members have single handedly removed [thousands] of [high value targets] from the battlefield and therefore severely degraded terrorist networks that pose a threat to U.S. interest,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Travis Deutman, the commander of the 17th STS. “Most importantly, our operators are consistently providing desperately needed close air support at the most critical times in combat, while also coordinating insertion, extraction, and medical and casualty evacuation lift for critically wounded teammates.”
The 17th STS is unique within the Air Force Special Tactics community in several ways.
The squadron, instead of residing in one location, is geographically separated in three locations so that the unit can train and deploy alongside all five of the U.S. Army Special Operations Command’s 75th Ranger Regiment battalions. Headquartered at Fort Benning, Georgia, alongside the Regimental Headquarters, 3rd Ranger Battalion, Regimental Special Troops Battalion, and Regimental Military Intelligence Battalion. Two operational detachments are located at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia, alongside the 1st Ranger Battalion, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, alongside the 2nd Ranger Battalion.
Consisting of primarily tactical air control party Airmen, the unit’s primary mission is to provide Air Force Special Operations Command’s Special Tactics TACPs to the 75th Ranger Regiment, pairing the Department of Defense’s most lethal joint terminal attack controllers with the most premiere direct-action raid force. Essentially, the 17th STS operators are directing precision strike munitions and delivering destructive ordnance on enemy targets in support of the Ranger ground scheme of maneuver.
Aside from TACPs, the unit also provides special reconnaissance Airmen, combat controllers, Special Tactics officers and combat mission support Airmen to the 75th Ranger Regiment to enhance its precision strike and global access capabilities.
“No other unit in the [United States Air Force] offers the opportunity to close with and destroy enemies of the United States like those of us selected to support the Ranger Regiment,” said an ST TACP operator with the 17th STS. “The Ranger Regiment is its own legend-generator and the opportunity to serve alongside one of the most lethal light infantry forces on earth is humbling.”
The bond between the 17th STS and the 75th Ranger Regiment is inimitable due to the respective units being geographically located together and conducting entire training cycles with the exact team that they will be deploying with.
“The 17th STS promotes what I would argue is the foremost example of joint service relationships,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Aaron Inch, an ST TACP operator with the 17th STS. “This unit has an extremely proud lineage and comes with the responsibility for each member to uphold and/or surpass the standard that has been set by those before us.”
With ongoing involvement in combat comes valor, and the Special Tactics community has just that. It is the most highly decorated community in the Air Force since the end of the Vietnam War with the 17th STS having a large hand in that statistic, seeing its members receive more than 80 high valor medals for courageous actions in combat.
“The foundation of this unit is the heritage of warriors that distinguished themselves in combat before we walked these halls,” said U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Steve Reedy, the 17th STS operations superintendent. “Every member of this organization earns their right to be a member every day in keeping with that heritage.”
One of the latest examples of recognition that the 17th STS has been awarded was in April 2019 when U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Cam Kelsch, an ST TACP operator with the 17th STS, was awarded the Silver Star Medal for actions while deployed with the 75th Ranger Regiment to Afghanistan in 2018. With this presentation, Kelsch became the first TACP to be awarded a Silver Star for actions in combat during the last seven years.
“Getting to lead people for whom undertaking such dangerous missions are just another day is inexplicable,” said U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Evan Serpa, the 17th STS Senior Enlisted Leader.
For the quiet professionals of this prestigious squadron, it is common to hear throughout the unit for one operator’s battlefield successes to be credited to his entire team. They spend days, weeks, and months training alongside each other to forge trust and competency to take downrange.
“The training that we provide simply adds different layers and different [tactics, techniques, and procedures], seeing that the Ranger Regiment conducts operations in a very specific way,” said U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Evan Patoray, 17th STS, Detachment 2 flight commander. “All of our training is fast paced and complex, and although the basics do not change, the level and repetition at which we do the basics is what sets us apart. As a team, we push each other beyond what we have all seen in combat. We do this because we understand that if this training does not save their own life, it will allow them to save the lives of the Rangers around them.”
The physical and mental challenges the operators undergo for at least 275 days out of the year equips them for the demanding environment they will face downrange.
“Technical competency matters, professionalism matters, but your mental fortitude and intellectual flexibility might be the most important attributes,” said an ST TACP operator with the 17th STS. “The training to get here and working with [the Ranger Regiment] prepares you for the realities of combat.”
The high-speed operations tempo can be brutal and toxic to the operator and their home life if they do not have the proper training and decompression time, according to U.S Air Force Staff Sgt. Ryan Duhon, an ST TACP operator with the 17th STS.
The Special Tactics Airmen aren’t alone with their sacrifices; their families have also sacrificed immensely for over 6,900 days in support of their loved ones. They’ve missed birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, and much more, to be a part of something bigger than themselves.
“A lot of personal sacrifice has to happen to make a unit like this one so effective and professional,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Ferguson, squadron flight chief. “We do not take breaks. We operate alongside our 75th [Ranger Regiment] brothers.”
In order to be welcomed into the Special Tactics community, aspiring conventional TACP Airmen undergo a harrowing week-long assessment at Hurlburt Field, Florida. The assessment is designed to test the candidates limits and determine if they have what it takes to join the ranks within ST. Candidates are then are hand-selected into the 17th STS.
“The team will push you to be the best version of yourself on and off the battlefield,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Joey Hauser, an ST TACP operator with the 17th STS. “The missions you will be of have impact felt at a national strategic level, and the legacy you will be of, will be some of your proudest accomplishments in life.”
If you asked members of the 17th STS what it means to be a part of the combat-proven unit, one common answer would stand out – humbling.
“We fight, bleed and laugh beside [the Rangers]. We win as a team or fail as a team,” said Duhon. “When we are downrange, there is no deviation or segregation between Air Force and Army. We are one team fighting daily together to overcome adversaries.”
For anyone wanting more information on how to join the 17th Special Tactics Squadron, email SDScreening@jdi.socom.mil
Story by SSgt Rachel Williams, 24th Special Operations Wing
Photos by TSgt Sandra Welch and SrA Rachel Yates
