September 2021 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for September, 2021

Spectra Group Receives Another SlingShot Order from Major European Customer

Monday, September 13th, 2021

Spectra Group, the specialist provider of secure voice, data and satellite communications systems, has received an order for their SlingShot satellite communications system from an undisclosed European ministry of defence. The order is for specialist use by troops currently deployed on remote operations globally. This announcement coincides with DSEI taking place in London 14-17 September where Spectra Group will be exhibiting on stand H6-107.

Spectra Group’s SlingShot system is unique in that it can be integrated with in-service UHF and VHF tactical communications radios to extend the range from 30km to 1000(+) km on the move, in all conditions. By integrating SlingShot and Inmarsat’s L-TAC satellite service with in-service radios, the deployed troops have immediately gained communications capability that would otherwise not be available. In addition to Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) voice, SlingShot includes a data capability supporting critical applications such as situational awareness tools; GPS tracking; reporting and other data messaging without the requirement for ground-based line-of-sight rebroadcasting infrastructure. Enabling an extension of the in-service radios with the robust SlingShot system also means that troops do not need to carry both VHF radios (for line-of-sight) and UHF TACSAT radios (for strategic rear link). With SlingShot, a single radio can carry-out both functions. Finally, the small omni-directional antennas utilised with SlingShot provide manpack, land, sea and air platforms, with real-time Comms on the Move (COTM) rather than Comms on the Pause, as experienced with traditional TACSAT systems.

In March 2021, the British Armed Forces announced that they had equipped regular Army units with Spectra Group’s SlingShot system, as they deploy on Operations and Exercises, to enable tactical satellite communications across the area of operations. At the time, Major General Jonathan Cole, Director of Information and CIO of the British Army, said: “SlingShot is a fantastic addition to our communications inventory, delivering vital capability to deployed troops. Of particular note is the fact that the training burden is minimal as the system is effectively a ‘bolt-on’ to our current BOWMAN radios. SlingShot is a game-changer in allowing our troops to operate at reach without the additional requirement to deploy more troops to provide rebroadcast capability when operating at Battle Group level and below. I am delighted to be working with Spectra on the fielding of such an important capability”.

Simon Davies, CEO of Spectra Group, said: “We are very pleased to receive yet another order from a European specialist user group. We have seen SlingShot become a battle-winning capability used by Special Forces across the globe, but we’re delighted to see our SlingShot system now being procured for use on operations by this new customer for the first time”. He added: “The beauty of SlingShot is that it can be “plugged into” any in-service tactical radio system. Numerous Armed Forces, including the British Army, are leading the way with this kind of approach to the integration of SlingShot but we’re now seeing other global forces, including the USA, adopt a similar strategy to meet every Beyond Line Of Sight communications scenario”.

Posted in Contracts, DSEi, International, Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on Spectra Group Receives Another SlingShot Order from Major European Customer

Arnold Defense Announces Next Generation FLETCHER Development Program

Monday, September 13th, 2021

Arnold Defense, the St. Louis based manufacturer of 2.75-inch rocket launchers, is announcing the launch of a capability development program for their unique FLETCHER Land Based, Laser Guided Rocket Launcher that aims to deliver a future ‘next generation’ suite of systems. The FLETCHER precision guided 2.75-inch/70mm weapon system was first unveiled in 2017 at DSEi in London and a number of major orders were announced in October 2020. This announcement coincides with DSEi 2021 that is taking place 14-17 September. At the show, Arnold Defense FLETCHER launchers can be seen displayed on the Level Peaks Associates (H4-648) and ISTEC (H2-702) stands.

Following the receipt of some direct operational feedback from current users of the FLETCHER system, Arnold Defense is launching this capability development program to investigate the potential to take the next generation of FLETCHER systems in a number of key directions. Specifically, the program will include the development, integration and testing of optical pointing, for use when laser designation is not an option and digital fire control systems to increase the operability, functionality and operational capability. As well, the program includes the development of a system to enable multiple “clustered” launcher configurations and notably, man-pack portable units for use by dismounted troops. Once developed and successfully tested, this will allow FLETCHER to be used by small teams working on foot giving the dismounted user the ability to accurately engage targets from the ground at a range of over 5km. Running concurrently with this future development program, Arnold Defense are already working on some other revolutionary development projects for FLETCHER including a boat-mounted marine variant and further development of their 23-round MLHS ground-based system, first unveiled at DSEi in 2019.

With FLETCHER, Arnold Defense has made a bold departure from the traditional concept of use for 2.75-inch rocket systems; that of an area suppression weapon delivered by aviation assets. Arnold’s innovative approach to FLETCHER using advanced rocket-guidance technology to utilize ground-based launch platforms, meets the demands of modern, vehicle-mounted and dismounted asymmetric warfare.

FLETCHER’s unique design allows for ease of operation, maintenance and sustainment. It employs an existing suite of guidance modules, rockets and warheads, already used in well-known programs and readily available to global forces. As a result, the FLETCHER system is ‘rocket agnostic’ allowing the user to fire their existing in-service 2.75-inch rockets of choice with rockets from both BAe and Thales having been tested and certified for use.

Doug Wallace, President at Arnold Defense said, “We’ve listened very carefully to the feedback we’ve received from the operational use of the first generation FLETCHER system and we’re now developing a suite of possible future solutions to improve the operational capability and flexibility.” He added, “Arnold Defense is committed to protecting the warfighter. FLETCHER has generated huge interest globally with its unique capability to deliver organic, long-range precision firepower to even the smallest unsupported tactical element. What we’re now developing will add even more to the firepower toolset on offer to the users.”

Posted in DSEi, Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on Arnold Defense Announces Next Generation FLETCHER Development Program

MATBOCK Recognized in the 2021 Inc 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies

Monday, September 13th, 2021

MATBOCK was included in the 2021 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies, marking its inaugural entry on the list at #1033. Despite wide-spread manufacturing challenges associated with COVID-19, MATBOCK grew exponentially in its 11th year of business.

The ranking followed a year of significant change and rapid growth at MATBOCK. The manufacturing team expanded from 19 highly skilled employees to 32. Additionally, MATBOCK moved into a state-of-the art 12,400 square foot manufacturing facility in Virginia Beach with an additional laser cutting machine and several programmable sewing machines. Applying manufacturing best practices from other industries, the MATBOCK team slashed average production lead times by half while reducing past due orders and increasing on time delivery.

This past year also marked the introduction of several new and innovative products to meet the demands of our military, law enforcement, and civilian customers. One of MATBOCK’s most innovative and successful product launches was the HIVE communication bag. Designed to hold radios, a hub, and batteries, the HIVE transfers heat quickly, keeping equipment cool while maintaining water resistance. In 2021, MATBOCK manufactured and sold 1,751 HIVES in less than six months, highlighting the company’s growth and improved manufacturing efficiencies.

MATBOCK is honored to be included in the 2021 Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies and we look forward to continued growth in 2022!

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Newest Light Tactical Military Vehicle to Debut at DSEI

Monday, September 13th, 2021

The Polaris MRZR Alpha extends capabilities for global armed forces

Minneapolis – September 13, 2021 – Polaris Government and Defense, the premier provider of ultralight tactical vehicles to global military forces, will debut its revolutionary mobility platform at DSEI in stand #H8-302 in London Sept. 14-17. The MRZR Alpha is the highest performing MRZR ever developed, providing superior off-road maneuverability and performance to global forces. The advanced platform supports requirements of U.S. Special Operations Command and the U.S. Marine Corps for a longer life-cycle while increasing performance and payload and maintaining internal, tactical air transportability. Polaris will also display its DAGOR and MRZR D4 light tactical vehicles and highlight its global training, engineering and integration capabilities.

“The Polaris Government and Defense team here in the U.K. serves Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) customers, handling all configuration management to deliver a complete capability,” said Steve Canner, manager of EMEA, Polaris Government and Defense. “The MRZR platform is widely used by global forces and we’re honored the global debut of the MRZR Alpha is here at DSEI. After the show, the vehicle will remain in the U.K. so we can schedule more in-depth briefings and MRZR Alpha demonstrations.”

First introduced in 2012, Polaris has continued to enhance the MRZR platform to meet the mission demands of the U.S. military, and over 50 allied forces worldwide – and the MRZR Alpha ups the ante once again. A new chassis provides a larger and more durable foundation for the latest MRZR, which is powered by a high-performance, yet quiet, 118 hp turbo-diesel engine and off-road tuned automotive 8-speed transmission. This provides 220 ft-lbs of efficient torque that, when combined with a selectable locker for the 2WD/4WD drive system, delivers superior off-road maneuverability and handling in the most demanding environments, including deep sand. In the cab, there is increased exportable power, more cab space and a greater configurability.

Dedication to European Requirements and Global Support

Multiple European Special Operations and conventional forces have Polaris DAGOR and MRZR platforms and receive localized support from Polaris. Support includes custom-engineered accessories and upfit modifications to meet specific capabilities, complete equipment integration, program management, training, long-term parts supply and service. The delivery of a complete capability will be featured on the stand with the inclusion of the Polaris DAGOR equipped with a SurRon® e-bike, which Polaris purchases and mounts for a European special operations forces customer.

Recent vehicle deliveries to the German Army demonstrate the localized support Polaris provides internationally and how leveraging the company’s existing network benefits military customers worldwide. Polaris has delivered 65 MRZR D4s to special units of the Bundeswehr providing integration of specialized on-board equipment, training, spare parts, tool kits and documentation. The light airborne utility terrain vehicles (LL-UTV) contract has been executed by Germany’s Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and Use (BAAINBw) with Rainer Diederich GmbH from Wiehl-Bomig. Rainer Diederich is the sole distributor of Polaris military vehicles in Germany.

Polaris is a major original equipment manufacturer (OEM) with 20 manufacturing facilities in six countries – including Poland and France as well as the U.S. The MRZR Alpha is produced in Minnesota at the birthplace of Polaris on a state-of-the-art, dedicated defense production line. It’s here that the company combines new technologies with the legacy of workmanship and quality that’s carried on in each employee that helps to build a Polaris vehicle.

Polaris employs dedicated military field service representatives (FSRs) to teach operator and maintainer training courses to the U.S. and its allies. Polaris also provides world-class parts distribution with an established inventory management system that allows for proactive management of parts inventory, minimizes lead time for parts and reduces the logistics for supply chain planning and management. Worldwide logistics are strengthened by the global footprint of Polaris, which has over 3,600 dealers and products sold to 120 countries.

More about the All-New MRZR Alpha

The Polaris MRZR Alpha represents the insertion of cutting-edge off-road vehicle technology for ultimate tactical mobility – derived from research and development investments that keep Polaris in front of the highly competitive off-road vehicle market. At the Polaris Product Development Center in Wyoming, Minn., engineers take the lead, improving technology and advancing vehicles through innovation.

“The Polaris portfolio of light tactical vehicles provides unmatched off-road capability. Like all Polaris military platforms, the new MRZR Alpha continues a tradition of light tactical military vehicles that are intuitive to operate, easy to maintain, and easy to globally support within an existing worldwide infrastructure of parts distribution and dealer service networks which is ideal for expeditionary forces,” said Jed Leonard, vice president, Polaris Government and Defense.

The MRZR Alpha retains a 1500 lb (680 kg) towing capacity common in the MRZR family, as well as blackout mode and a two-litter capacity. The MRZR Alpha comes in a two and four-seat option, like its predecessors, and increased payload to 1400 and 2000 lbs (635 and 907.2 kg), respectively. The range at gross-vehicle weight (GVW) increases to 225 miles (362.1 km) for expanded mission flexibility and it is heavy-fuel compatible – including DF1, DF2, JP8 and F24. The top speed of over 60 mph (96.5 kmh) supports convoy operations. An expanded off-road profile is made possible with 12 inches (30.48 cm) of ground clearance at full GVW, high clearance dual A-arm front and rear suspension with payload leveling, and 32-inch (81.28 cm), high mobility run-flat tires with bead-lock rims.

The MRZR Alpha can be internally transported by V-22, H-47 and larger aircraft by leveraging toolless ROPS and spare tire stowage. External transportation includes H-60 and larger rotary wing lift assets. Robust tie down and lifting provisions also allow for LVAD, JPADS and HSL certifications.

With the MRZR Alpha, maintenance is simplified through an On-Board Diagnostics interface (OBD-II) for real-time feedback on the status of the vehicle subsystems and a pinpoint diagnostics manual. On board vehicle systems support future condition-based maintenance and guided diagnostics.

Posted in DSEi, Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on Newest Light Tactical Military Vehicle to Debut at DSEI

Mystery Ranch – goTenna Pouch

Monday, September 13th, 2021

Offered in Coyote or MultiCam, Mystery Ranch’s pouch for the goTenna Pro and Pro X is PALS compatible.

www.mysteryranch.com/gotenna-pouch

Posted in Advertiser, Comms, Load Carrying | Comments Off on Mystery Ranch – goTenna Pouch

Ft Bragg Airborne Troops Support R&D to Prevent Soldier Head Injuries

Monday, September 13th, 2021

FORT BRAGG, North Carolina – Airborne Soldiers here recently tested combat helmet sensors looking to help the Army lessen repetitive traumatic injuries to the head and neck while jumping from aircraft.

The 2nd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division and the Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate teamed up to do testing for the Army Research Laboratory’s (ARL) newest Head Impact Monitoring Sensors.

Ongoing research supported by the ARL over the last 10 years has developed improved monitoring devices and the implementation of many new protective gear developments.

“Ultimately our goal for the Rate Activated Tether (RAT) helmet suspension is to increase the blunt impact protection in all combat helmets for all Soldiers,” said Thomas Plaisted, the ARL Materials Engineer Research Lead.

He said whether Airborne or ground-based operations Soldiers, the goal is to achieve a comfortable and stable helmet fit with minimal added weight.

“The Impact Monitoring Mouthguard (IMM) is a ‘Check Engine’ sensor that provides understandable and objective head impact and blunt force data to line leaders regarding the readiness of their Service members,” said Dr. Adam Bartsch, Chief Science Officer for Prevent Biometrics.

For the past year, the IMM Team has been collaborating with the ARL to evaluate the RAT impact absorption system fitted into the Army Combat Helmet.

Testing of the IMM and RAT began mid-July with a day of ground training and familiarization, followed by combat-equipped jumps on Fort Bragg’s Holland Drop Zone.

“The findings from this test are vital in understanding the physical demands Soldiers encounter while conducting airborne operations,” said Capt. Tyler Miller, ABNSOTD Operations Officer.

“With this data, leaders and researchers can develop equipment and processes to better protect paratroopers.”

Ground training consisted of experts from ARL and Prevent Biometrics conducting training on proper wear and fitting of the RAT and IMM.

The test jumpers then tested the equipment on the ground with Sustained Airborne Training, Parachute Landing Falls on various surfaces, and then practicing jump commands and aircraft exits out of a mock door trainer.

That was followed by combat-equipped training jumps on Fort Bragg’s Holland Drop Zone from U.S. Air Force C-17 Aircraft, along with Paratroopers from 2nd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, who were already jumping for training for mass tactical airfield seizure insertions.

“The ability to test and put these new and emerging technologies directly into the hands of our Soldiers goes far too rapidly evolve technology for the future of the Army,” said Miller.

Data collected from post jump surveys and the head impact sensors will lead to further development of protective equipment for Paratroopers.

Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division plan to assist medical researchers, by utilizing the IMM for further head impact data collection during training events over the coming months.

The data these Soldiers will gather will assist researchers in further development of protective equipment and techniques to prevent future mild traumatic brain injuries from combat and everyday training events.

By CPT Christopher Weber, Airborne and Special Operations Test Directorate, U.S. Army Operational Test Command

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Parachuting, Research | Comments Off on Ft Bragg Airborne Troops Support R&D to Prevent Soldier Head Injuries

Introducing GBRS Performance

Sunday, September 12th, 2021

FITNESS MATTERS

We are firm believers that everyone should be physically capable, especially those who risk their lives to help others.

For the past two years, we have been training and rebuilding with strength & conditioning coach, Vernon Griffith II and developing a program of our own with the tactical athlete in mind. We built a program that will focus on improving mobility to enhance the quality of life while also improving strength, endurance and overall health.

INTRODUCING THE GBRS PERFORMANCE PROGRAM AVAILABLE ON TRAIN HEROIC

WHAT YOU GET

Programming 5 Days A Week

Daily workouts designed to increase strength and mobility while improving overall performance + instructional videos for all movements with coaching cues and demonstrations.

Detailed, Expert Instruction

With over 50 combined years of Professional Education and Tier 1 Special Operations experience, our coaches will hold you accountable and provide the feedback you need to grow.

A Supportive Tribe

Being a part of the team, you will never feel like you are on this journey alone. Our supportive community will keep you pushing to unlock your best.

Start Your 7-Day Free Trial

Download The Train Heroic App

Posted in Press Release, Training | Comments Off on Introducing GBRS Performance

SCUBAPRO Sunday – Veterans Suicide

Sunday, September 12th, 2021

“The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the Veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation.” — President George Washington

With today being the day after the 20th anniversary of 9/11 and September being suicide awareness month, I wanted to write about something close to me. I have lost some very good friends to suicide — people you never thought in a thousand years would take their own lives. They were among the best dads you could ever meet, truly the people you think of when you imagine great fathers. As colleagues, when it came to being a team guy, a teammate, or friend, you couldn’t find better ones. Since the war on terror started, we have lost a lot of brothers and sisters to war, but we are losing four times as many veterans to the effects of war than to the war itself.

Most of the time, suicide is only discussed when it is or affects someone close to you. I think it is very misunderstood, specifically when it concerns what causes people to do it or even to think that it’s the only way out. I believe there is a lot of speculation and misdiagnosis, but I also think no one really wants to talk about it. Many veterans are suffering from a host of different things that can be both physical and/or mental. Depending on what report you read, up to 22 veterans commit suicide every day. Some reports are higher and some lower, but they are not that far apart. Regardless of the daily number, Veterans have the highest suicide rate amongst ANY group. It is not just the vets from the War on Terror, either. This number represents all the wars and conflicts from which we still have survivors. And it’s not only a U.S. problem, as many of our allies are dealing with the same issues. If you know someone or you might be having problems, PLEASE talk to someone, anyone. The Veterans Crisis Line is 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.

I have lost some very close friends to suicide, and I never want it to happen to anyone. Please look out for the signs and symptoms; sometimes they are easy to see, while other times you have no clue, and it will happen to someone close to you. But if you are thinking of hurting yourself, please talk to someone. If you believe the world is better with you not in it, it is not. The people you leave behind will always have to deal with what happened and still have to think they could have done more. I know I do, but I also know I did all I could have done to help. But there will always be that .01% that thinks “I could have done more to help my brother”. People, especially military people, are good at hiding things and it’s not always easy to see. Please keep an eye on your brothers and sisters. I look at the military as a family.

www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/suicide/symptoms-causes/syc-20378048

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Veterans | 1 Comment »