May 2023 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for May, 2023

Effective June 1, First Term Airmen Can Retrain into AFSCs Under 90% Manning in Lieu of Separation

Wednesday, May 3rd, 2023

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

The Air Force is changing the process of how First Term Airmen can retrain to provide additional opportunities for Airmen to stay in uniform instead of separating.

Effective June 1, all FTA can retrain into any Air Force Specialty Code they qualify for that is under 90% manned prior to separation, even if their current AFSC is below 90% manned.

Qualified Airmen must be within their retaining window and meet medical, Air Force Enlisted Classification Directory standards, Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery score and physical fitness standards to be approved.

“Glad to see us make this change as it relates to retraining opportunities for the force,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass. “Providing these opportunities for our Airmen helps us keep talent on the bench. While this particular change impacts First Term Airmen, expect to see more initiatives like this as we evolve our policies and talent management to focus on the force of the future and building the Air Force our nation needs.”

Additionally, the FTA Retaining Selection Board is also no longer required during the retraining application process. This removes the racking-and-stacking retraining application process based on the number of quotas needed for a more streamlined ‘first in, first out’ process. Phase 1 FTA retraining quotas will be open to all FTAs entering their retraining window during Fiscal Year 2024.

The Exception to Policy will be reassessed June 1, 2024, unless it is rescinded earlier.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, Profession of Arms | 3 Comments »

Another Major Order Worth Over €200 million Net: Rheinmetall Supplying European Country with Ammunition for Main Battle Tanks

Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023

A European customer has awarded Rheinmetall a contract to supply tank ammunition. Worth over €200 million net, the ammunition will be delivered between 2023 to 2025. Following the major contract for infantry fighting vehicle ammunition reported in April, this is another significant order resulting from the current surge in demand for ammunition.

Rheinmetall is the sole single source supplier of newly made 20mm-35mm ammunition for medium-calibre automatic and antiaircraft cannon of the Marder, Gepard, Puma and similar systems; of 105mm ammunition for the Leopard 1 and 120mm ammunition for the Leopard 2; as well as 155mm artillery shells. Moreover, the Group has the capacity to make large-scale deliveries at short notice.

The Düsseldorf-based tech enterprise is one of the world’s top makers of weapon and ammunition systems. Its product portfolio ranges from medium-calibre ammunition for infantry fighting vehicles and air defence systems right through to aircraft cannon and high-energy laser applications. Rheinmetall is currently building an additional production line for medium-calibre ammunition at its plant in Unterlüß, which will enable it to meet heightened demand for air defence munitions starting this summer.

Posted in Ammo, Contracts, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Another Major Order Worth Over €200 million Net: Rheinmetall Supplying European Country with Ammunition for Main Battle Tanks

Safariland’s Limited Edition M81 Woodland Camo Holster Now Available

Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023

Jacksonville, Florida – Safariland®, a brand of The Safariland Group®, a leading global provider of safety products designed for the public safety, military, professional, and outdoor markets and one of Cadre Holdings, Inc.’s (NYSE: CDRE) (“Cadre”) key brands, has released a limited edition the M81 Woodland Camo Cordura wrap for the 6304RDS and 6354RDS holsters.

In 1981, the United States Armed Forces adopted the first official Battle Dress Uniform. The camouflage chosen for the first BDUs was U.S. Woodland—a pattern well suited for use in dense forests of hardwoods and pines.

“Representing a significant military pattern, the M81 Woodland camouflage serves as a historical icon and is widely appreciated among the industry today,” said Eric Gasvoda, VP/GM of Duty Gear for Safariland. “Woodland is symbolic of the end of the Cold War, representing the period before the War on Terror and the legacy of a new millennium. We’re thrilled to bring to market these limited-edition holsters with fits for the top handguns on the market.”

The limited-edition 6304RDS and 6354RDS holsters are specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights. The featured Automatic Locking System (ALS®) locks the firearm in all directions upon holstering. The ALS is completely operable with the thumb, making it very intuitive to use; once the device is deactivated, a simple straight-up draw can be used.

Key features include:

• ALS® (Automatic Locking Systems) secures firearm once holstered
• For use with red dot optic-equipped weapons
• Includes QLS 19 Locking Fork
• 6304RDS MSRP: $259.75
• 6354RDS MSRP: $233.50
• SafariLaminate™ thermal-molded construction protects firearms and sights
• Suede lined to protect finish
• Cordura® nylon wrap finish reduces infrared (IR) signature

The M81 Woodland holsters come in a variety of popular firearm fits. To purchase and learn more about how Safariland is committed to building lifesaving equipment, visit Safariland.com.

Posted in Camo, Holsters, Press Release | Comments Off on Safariland’s Limited Edition M81 Woodland Camo Holster Now Available

TacJob – Shaw Concepts Is Hiring Several Positions

Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023

Tactical Gear manufacturer Shaw Concepts is seeking qualified candidates for these three positions:

Product Designer:

The Shaw Concepts – Product Designer is someone with a grounded understanding of our brand and the industry we serve who is responsible for designing, prototyping and bringing to life new nylon product offerings. The Product Designer has a background in this industry and possesses the necessary skills to take a product vision and bring it to life while working with guidelines, constraints and feedback. While the individual we are looking for has a wide range of skills, they do not need to possess a formal education but rather must have an enticing portfolio to showcase their abilities. They are expected to work well with a team and accept professional critics and directing. We are looking for someone willing to grow with our company and someone who values this opportunity and industry above all else. Apart from their Primary and Secondary responsibilities the Product Designer will assist in daily operations of the shop as well. Product Designers will also be expected to participate in related job training to improve employee knowledge in our company’s subject matter & product offerings.

Content Developer:

The Shaw Concepts – Content Developer is someone with a grounded understanding of our brand and the industry we serve who is responsible for developing social media photos, videos, product page images, graphic designs, and more. The Content Developer has a background in this industry and possesses the necessary skills to produce appealing content which includes but is not limited to: photography, videography, photo editing, video editing, digital sketching and parallel technical skills. While the individual we are looking for has a wide range of skills, they do not need to possess a formal education but rather must have an enticing portfolio to showcase their abilities. They are expected to work well with a team and accept professional critics and directing. We are looking for someone willing to grow with our company and someone who values this opportunity and industry above all else. Apart from their Primary and Secondary responsibilities the Content Developer will assist in daily operations of the shop as well. Content Developers will also be expected to participate in related job training to improve employee knowledge in our company’s subject matter & product offerings.

Sewing Machine Operator:

The Shaw Concepts – Cut & Sew Operator or CSO, is a disciplined professional committed to producing high quality nylon goods. CSOs will cut various textile goods and sew them into a final product while adhering to Quality Control measures. Apart from the following Primary

Responsibilities, CSOs will assist in the daily operations of the shop as well which will consist of cleaning, packing products, moving equipment and more. CSOs will also be expected to participate in related job training to improve employee knowledge in our company’s subject matter.

More Information can be found at shaw-concepts.com/pages/occupations

To apply Email Resumes to jobs@shaw-concepts.com

Posted in TacJobs | Comments Off on TacJob – Shaw Concepts Is Hiring Several Positions

Task Force Dagger Special Operations Foundation’s SOF Online Auction & Raffle

Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023

Task Force Dagger Special Operation Foundation (TFDSOF) will be the beneficiary of the SOF Online Auction & Raffle presented by Cubic, which is open now and closes during a Social Event in Cubic’s Embassy Suites Ballroom next to the Tampa Convention Center on May 9th at 8PM EDT.

There are more than 100 items on the Auction & Raffle, the list includes a Rustick Knives Conflict Forged Tomahawk made from steel off the USS Kitty Hawk, a four-person Dustin Johnson Golf School package, an Omega watch, Richard Childress Racing VIP NASCAR Experience, Horse Soldier Bourbon Commanders Select Box, Under Armour & Tactical Games Package, Custom HS Precision Rifle w. Swarovski Optic, QuietKat E Bike, Spartan Race Pass Packages, original artwork, firearms, tactical items, clothing, outdoor products, golf products, sports memorabilia and many more

Our goal is to raise $150,000, and all funds raised though the SOF Auction & Raffle will directly impact families of the Special Operations Community and 100% of the proceeds will be applied to TFDSOF’s three core programs: Immediate Needs, Rehabilitative Events, and the SOF Health Initiatives Program.

To bid on an item or learn more about this fundraising event, please visit:

sofauction.cbo.io

Task Force Dagger Special Operations Foundation provides assistance to wounded, ill, or injured United States Special Operations Command members and their families. We respond to immediate needs, conduct Rehabilitative Therapy Events, and provide next-generation health solutions for issues facing our service members. Our cohesive programs improve the quality of life for Special Operations Families. To learn more about Task Force Dagger Special Operation Foundation, visit our website at

www.taskforcedagger.org

Posted in Charity, Fundraising, SOF | Comments Off on Task Force Dagger Special Operations Foundation’s SOF Online Auction & Raffle

Haley Strategic Blackside to Exhibit at SOF Week

Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023

During next week’s SOF Week at the Tampa Convention Center Haley Strategic Partners will offer the first hands-on glimpse of their work from their new experimental unit named Blackside.

Blackside is made up of personnel that are Jacks of all trades and maintain a lot of experience in the military, law enforcement, and rescue spaces. One of the unique aspects of Blackside is the creative flexibility, outside the box thinking, even breaking all the rules of traditional product design if necessary to get the job done without wasting our tax payer money.

Visit booth 455 where you’ll see their latest products oncluding some that have yet to be seen.

For a preview of some of what will be exhibited at SOF Week, visit haleystrategic.com/products/blackside.

Posted in SOF Week | 1 Comment »

Special Warfare Training Wing: Preparing for Strategic Competition

Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas –

We consistently talk about the future fight and preparing for strategic competition. This is by design, with the singular purpose of defending our nation against any who would test our resolve. The character of war is constantly changing, yet its fundamental nature remains the same. Special Warfare Airmen and operators must be prepared to face the harsh nature of war and be ready to master its new character.

Over the past 30 years, China has rapidly transformed its military capabilities, which means we must prioritize our own transformation and modernization to ensure superiority on the battlefield. We must be deliberate in the investment and development of our force to preserve our nation’s freedoms and way of life in the future.

How does the Special Warfare Training Wing fit into the equation? How does your work every single day determine the outcome of the future fight? Both are, in every sense of the word, vital.

This team shoulders the precarious burden of shaping the minds, strength and emotional capacity of our next generation of Air Force Special Warfare operators, the Multi-Capable Airmen who will remain our competitive advantage now and going forward.

Your daily work sharpens the most strategic players in our nation’s arsenal. But this extends beyond your work with candidates and includes your time with each other. Each of you is a strategic asset, able to leverage access, strike and recovery to position the U.S. for strategic advantage in competition. By taking advantage of everything this Wing offers, we look to ensure you remain the most agile, empowered, lethal and combat-effective Airmen in the world.

Yes, we select and equip the next generation of operators, but we also consider it our mission to invest in and develop our nation’s best who come to us as instructors and staff. Use this assignment to learn more about how your own brain works and how your body trains by taking advantage of the wealth of knowledge amongst your teammates.

Additionally, carve out time in your busy schedules to understand the environment of strategic competition and our adversaries. I recommend visiting the China Toolkit that Air University’s China Aerospace Studies Institute recently released. The Toolkit is full of videos, articles and even Chinese publications that the CASI team translated into English.

The work you do every day is crucial in preparing yourself, your colleagues and our candidates for strategic competition. I am proud of this team, and of everything you do to set our nation up for victory.

By Col Nathan Colunga Commander, Special Warfare Training Wing

Posted in AFSW, Guest Post | 1 Comment »

ApolloMilitary Elasticated Dive Mask Strap for Team Wendy EXFIL Rail System

Monday, May 1st, 2023

In order to meet the Australian Defence Force (ADF) SOCOM requirement for a dive mask to affix to their in service Team Wendy ballistic helmet Apollo Military have inhouse developed, engineered and had manufactured in Australia, an ApolloMilitary elasticated dive mask strap that fits both the EXFIL 2.0 and 3.0 Rail Systems.

This is shown below fitted to the Apollo Bio Metal Mask Stealth (non-magnetic) which is the worlds first anti-reflective mask built specifically for special forces & EOD teams; however, alternative Apollo dive mask options can be provided dependent on end use application, inclusive options more suited for SAR or swift water rescue teams.

NSN pending.

All global enquiries for supply of this Apollo dive mask strap for your Team Wendy EXFIL Rail System to info@apollomilitary.com

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets, International, Medical, Press Release | 1 Comment »