May 2023 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for May, 2023

NIOA Group, Engineers Australia Partnership Creates Future Pathways

Monday, May 22nd, 2023

The NIOA Group has inked a partnership with Australia’s peak engineering body, reinforcing its commitment to develop a pipeline of weapons and munitions professionals “mission ready” to support sovereign capability.

NIOA Australia General Manager – Engineering Rudi Bekker says the company’s newly minted Engineering Workforce Credentialing (EWC) partnership with Engineers Australia (EA) will create a pathway to membership and follow-on chartership including fellow and executive membership for eligible engineers.

Young engineer Schalk Laubscher is among the NIOA Group’s Australian-based weapons and munitions technical cohort.

The EWC program represents the full cross-section of the NIOA Group’s technical workforce advancing expertise for both young and experienced engineers plus Technologists and Associates.

NIOA Australia’s engineering workforce has quadrupled in recent years as the company manages some significant defence contracts including Tranche 1 of the LAND 159 Lethality Systems program and a growing list of medium and large calibre munitions contracts including the LAND 17-1C.2 Future Artillery Ammunition, LAND 400 Phase 2 Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles and Abrams Main Battle Tank.

An equally impressive technical line-up at US-based Barrett Firearms provides the NIOA Group with global reach across the Pacific and a shared commitment to quality, innovation, loyalty, and mission.

NIOA Australia has committed to building a $50m small arms factory in either Brisbane, Lithgow in New South Wales, or Benalla in Victoria if it secures Tranche 2 of LAND 159. This would lead to yet another significant increase in NIOA Australia’s engineering team.

Significant growth is also anticipated for the Australian Missile Corporation (AMC), an independently-operated company within the NIOA Group.

As a sovereign enterprise partner for the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Enterprise, AMC expects to grow its engineering workforce to support the Enterprise in the establishment of a domestic manufacturing capability.

The Commonwealth Government has committed $4.1b after the Defence Strategic Review prioritised missile capability, including $2.5b for the domestic manufacture of longer-range munitions.

“Engineering forms an integral part of the Fundamental Inputs to Capability (FIC) and will be key to establishing an asymmetrical advantage needed to make the speed of relevance relevant,” Mr Bekker said.

“NIOA’s EWC partnership with Engineers Australia reinforces our commitment to develop a sustainable and growing workforce to answer to the government’s call for acceleration in areas of strategic capabilities.

“It will provide both membership and Chartered recognition for Professional engineers, Technologists and Associates across the NIOA Group of companies.”

The EWC program credentials engineers, including to become a Chartered Engineer – the highly regarded credential which is recognised internationally as a measure of excellence.

Engineers Australia CEO Romilly Madew AO said: “Chartered Engineers are recognised throughout the world for their skills and their professionalism. I congratulate NIOA on their commitment to credential their engineers against global engineering standards of practice.”

As a young professional engineer, Schalk Laubscher now forms an integral part of a collective half-a-millennium years’ of bespoke weapons and munitions engineering experience in NIOA Australia’s engineering-technical cohort.

The 25-year-old graduated from the University of Queensland (UQ) in 2020 with a Bachelor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

During his time at university, he was the founding member of UQ Space which competed against other university teams from around Australia and New Zealand in designing, building, and launching sounding rockets to altitudes of up to 30,000 feet.

NIOA Group CEO Robert Nioa said: “We are seeing a huge demand for engineers and technologists of varying disciplines and experience.

“The growth of the business has created new employment opportunities. Engineering is just one field where there are exciting openings for highly-skilled young professionals like Schalk.

“The partnership with Engineers Australia will be critical to achieving a roadmap for upskilling the engineering team who in turn will be supporting advanced sovereign defence manufacturing.

“The NIOA Group is committed to growing our industrial base well into the future both in terms of capability and workforce.”

Established in regional Queensland in 1973, the NIOA Group is Australia’s largest privately-owned company supplying firearms, weapons, ammunition and technical support and advice to military, law enforcement and commercial markets.

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

Kitanica – Kit Organizer Bag

Monday, May 22nd, 2023

Made from 500D Cordura, the new KOB from Kitanica is a versatile bag which can be used for a variety of applications. It incorporates a G-hook for hands-free access with internal mesh pockets and a PALS field.

kitanica.com/products/all-purpose-bag

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying | 2 Comments »

Antimatter Scopeswitch

Monday, May 22nd, 2023

From the creators of the Flux Defense Raider comes a new company and new product.

From Antimatter Industries, the Scopeswitch is new type of optic mount allowing your offhand to control the zoom without taking it off the handguard.

Posted in Optics, Weapon Accessories | 14 Comments »

Patented Holster Secures Widespread Adoption by Over 20 Law Enforcement Agencies

Monday, May 22nd, 2023

SWANSBORO, N.C. – May 22, 2023 – High Speed Gear® and Comp-Tac Holsters® proudly announce the exceptional success of their groundbreaking CT3, level III retention holster.

This remarkable milestone attests to the commitment the brands have made to officer safety and they are proud to have yielded a holster specifically engineered to enhance operational efficiency, officer comfort, and firearm security.

The CT3 Holster represents the pinnacle of holster design, blending state-of-the-art, patented technology along with exceptional craftsmanship. Key features that have propelled the CT3 Holster to such widespread adoption include:

1.) Carefully Engineered: The CT3 Holster was designed to ensure a precise fit that eliminates any potential for unwanted or unintentional obstructions, guaranteeing smooth and reliable access to the firearm. Before even removing the gun from the holster, the CT3 allows the end-user to place their hand and thumb in the “Master Grip” position reducing any readjustment to the grip after the gun has been drawn.

2.) Retention Realization: The CT3 Holster employs an innovative retention system that ensures a secure hold on the firearm while allowing for a smooth draw. This cutting-edge technology strikes the perfect balance between firearm retention and accessibility, giving officers the confidence they need in high-stress situations. It also enables a seamless draw while maintaining the integrity of the Master Grip, allowing for a quick and efficient response without compromising control or stability.

3.) Versatility and Adaptability: Designed to accommodate a wide range of firearms, the CT3 Holster offers maximum versatility to police agencies with various weapon models in their arsenals. It sets a new standard by being optics and co-witness sight ready, allowing law enforcement and military personnel to seamlessly integrate their preferred red dot sights for enhanced target acquisition. Furthermore, its compatibility with other OEM drop leg platforms and quick disconnects provides flexibility and ease of use, allowing users to customize their setup according to their specific operational needs. With a large number of makes/models available along with the ability to tool-up and make holsters for gun and light configurations that may be specific to an agency, it’s clear how Comp-Tac has become the brand of choice for LE professionals.

4.) Comfort-Focused Design: Recognizing the importance of comfort during extended periods of wear, the CT3 Holster incorporates ergonomic features for ride height adjustments ensuring a customized fit for each officer and a stable, 90-degree angle for added comfort and safety. The design optimizes weight distribution and minimizes fatigue, enabling officers to perform at their best while on duty.

5.) Premium Quality and Durability: Crafted with precision and expertise, the CT3 Holster is built to withstand tough conditions and built with meticulous construction techniques to ensure exceptional durability and longevity, reinforcing the holster’s reputation as a reliable companion in the line of duty.

The widespread adoption of the CT3 Holster by over 20 esteemed police agencies is a testament to its performance, functionality, and unmatched quality. Comp-Tac and High Speed Gear are proud to provide law enforcement professionals with a trusted solution that enhances officer safety and operational effectiveness.

“We are thrilled to see the rapid adoption of our Level III CT3 Holster by police departments across the country,” said Truett Whitt, Sales Manager at Comp-Tac Holsters. “This continued acceptance highlights the trust placed in our products and our commitment to providing law enforcement professionals with the highest level of safety and performance.”

As the HSGI family of brands strive to continuously innovate and exceed industry standards, they remain committed to collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies to gather valuable feedback and incorporate real-world insights into future designs. This commitment ensures that the needs of police officers are at the forefront of product development.

Both Comp-Tac and High Speed Gear express gratitude to the police agencies that have embraced the CT3 Holster and reaffirm their dedication to providing law enforcement professionals across the nation with cutting-edge gear that empowers them to protect and serve their communities effectively.

For additional information on the CT3 Holster, please contact:

Truett Whitt

Sales Manager

Comp-Tac Holsters

Truett.Whitt@highspeedgear.com

Posted in Advertiser, Holsters, Press Release | Comments Off on Patented Holster Secures Widespread Adoption by Over 20 Law Enforcement Agencies

US Army Selects Blue Force Gear Sling as Authorized M4A1 Component

Monday, May 22nd, 2023

Pooler, GA – Blue Force Gear, the industry leader in modern combat slings, is pleased to announce that the US Army has chosen the patented Blue Force Gear Push Button Sling in both Black and Tan as an authorized attachment to the M4A1.

This modification can be done at the soldier level and both slings can be ordered through the Army’s Global Combat Support System (GCSS-A) using the following information: Vickers Push Button quick-adjustable sling from Blue Force Gear (Tan: NSN 1005-01-707-1744, Black: NSN 1005-01-625-4470).

After years of supporting the United States Marine Corps with their standard issue rifle sling, Blue Force Gear stands ready to fully support the US Army with the Push Button Sling and New Equipment Training and Education.

“The modern combat sling is probably the most overlooked and underutilized tool that—when properly sized, mounted, and employed—is the cheapest and most effective component for immediately enhancing a soldier’s lethality and safety,” said Chris Sizelove, Blue Force Gear Director of Education and Training. “I am proud of the Army for providing authorized options for the M4 besides the issued parade sling.”

Along with the sling options, the Army has also authorized additional modern buttstock options, most notably the B5 Systems Bravo (Black: NSN 1005-01-706-2373, Tan: NSN 1005-01-706-2510), which, when used in conjunction with the modern combat sling adds many additional capabilities to the combat rifle system.

“By authorizing our proven sling, the Army has made it easier than ever for Soldiers to improve marksmanship and weapon handling,” said Ashley Burnsed, CEO at Blue Force Gear. “This is a huge win for the US Army.”

Posted in Advertiser, Army, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 6 Comments »

Defenders Memorialized During Police Week, DAF Expands Security Forces Training

Monday, May 22nd, 2023

WASHINGTON (AFNS) —

The names of three Department of the Air Force defenders were among the 556 fallen officers read aloud during the 35th Annual Candlelight vigil May 13 as part of the many events that take place across the country during National Police Week, May 14-19.

The three defenders honored during the vigil were Tech. Sgt. Jason Norton, Staff Sgt. Brian McElroy and Senior Airman Jason Nathan.

“It is important to honor their memories and celebrate the achievements they made to the defense of our nation,” said Brig. Gen. Thomas Sherman, director of Security Forces. “National Police Week in general is a time to reflect on those we lost, as well as a time to come together as law enforcement professionals within the Security Forces career field.”

At this year’s vigil, Timothy Gerald, deputy director of Security Forces, attended the vigil to represent the Department of the Air Force defender family.

“Our Department of the Air Force civilian police officers have worked alongside uniformed defenders for more than a decade. Together, our active duty, Guard, Reserve, and civilian defenders conducting law enforcement make us a stronger fighting force,” said Gerald, who also serves as the senior Air Force civilian and functional manager overseeing all matters concerning the utilization, development and career field management of the 4,600-person DAF civilian security and police force. “Thank you to our Total Force defender family for their dedicated service.”

National Police Week is a time to reflect on the challenges that law enforcement officers face every day. The Security Forces Air Staff continues to support law enforcement officers by ensuring that they have adequate resources and training.

Law enforcement is an important aspect of Security Force’s larger mission of base defense. Defenders protect Airmen, Guardians and their families; defend resources, equipment and capability; and assure that air and space missions supporting the DAF are carried out successfully and securely.

Law enforcement is not only important for the safety and well-being of Airmen—it is also a key force-multiplying capability vested in base defense.

As the Air Staff recognizes law enforcement professionals during Police Week, it also reflects on the major efforts underway to support civilians within its law enforcement community. In 2022, the Security Forces enterprise launched an effort to build the law enforcement specialty directly within the civilian career field. This required selecting a subset of the 43,000 Total Force Security Forces population to be uniquely identified as law enforcement practitioners.

Building on that effort, the Air Staff expanded the Police Officer Training and Standards Accredited Academy to accept military students. This enables the Security Forces enterprise to establish a foundation of base defense training, creating base defense-focused defenders within the basic courses while later selecting Airmen for specialized law enforcement training at the academy.

The Air Force Security Forces Center facilitated funding to increase course availability to 500 students per year. All graduates are credentialed and badged federal law enforcement officers. Finally, to sustain officer skills, the AFSFC will introduce a 40-hour annual recertification course and additional instruction for field training officers, sergeant/supervisors and deputy directors.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, LE, Memorial | Comments Off on Defenders Memorialized During Police Week, DAF Expands Security Forces Training

ASA’s Newest Tier 1 Sponsor: Elevated Silence

Sunday, May 21st, 2023

Santa Rosa Beach, FL: The American Suppressor Association (ASA) is pleased to announce that Elevated Silence has increased their sponsorship to ASA’s highest Tier 1 level for 2023. They join Silencer Shop as ASA’s second Tier 1 sponsor.

Jim Hood, Founder and CEO of Elevated Silence speaks to their Tier 1 Sponsorship of the American Suppressor Association, “We’re investing in ASA’s future, which is Elevated’s future. Securing the rights of law-abiding firearms owners to purchase, possess, and use suppressors is common sense. It’s foundational to our country, to the market, and to this entire industry’s success. ASA’s hard work makes this possible, and we’re proud to support Knox and the team. We pride ourselves in punching above our weight, and hope the rest of the industry will match us in support of the fight for our industry and our Second Amendment rights.”

“WE’RE INVESTING IN ASA’S FUTURE, WHICH IS ELEVATED’S FUTURE.”

— Jim Hood, Founder and CEO of Elevated Silence

The search for a suppressor that does it all led gun enthusiast and businessman Jim Hood to one thought – if you can’t buy it, then build it. Jim founded Elevated Silence and developed a multi chamber technology that effectively redirects gas away from the bullet as it travels through the length of the suppressor. This in turn yields the absolute minimal effects on bullet trajectory and stability, which in turn yields a consistently accurate suppressor over a myriad of calibers and weapons systems.

“Elevated Silence may not be a household name just yet, but their commitment to suppressor advocacy and the Second Amendment is second to none. As ASA’s newest Tier 1 sponsor, they are putting their money where their mouth is, joining Silencer Shop as one of ASA’s top supporters. Jim and the team he has assembled are masters of their craft, with an assortment of world-class suppressors in their catalog. We expect big things from Elevated Silence, and are thrilled to continue building our partnership with them,” said Knox Williams, President and Executive Director of ASA.

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SeaGuardian Used by USN in Support of Integrated Battle Problem

Sunday, May 21st, 2023

AN DIEGO – 18 May 2023 – In support of the U.S. Navy’s (USN) Integrated Battle Problem 2023 (IBP-23) exercise in May, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) conducted a series of Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) exercises cooperatively with the USN Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadrons (HSM) 38, 49, 71, and 75. GA-ASI flew a company-owned MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) under a USN Flight Clearance. The HSM squadrons flew the MH-60R Seahawk helicopter flown out of Naval Air Station North Island off the coast of San Diego, Calif., on April 24-25, 2023.

The exercise was focused on Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) to conduct Cooperative ASW in the Southern California Offshore ASW range. During the two-day event, MH-60s dropped sonobuoys to detect a mobile training target. Using the combined SeaGuardian and MH-60R teaming concept, correlation and location of the target was expeditiously achieved and tactical reports – known as TACREPs – were then transmitted to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 34 Theater ASW Center at Naval Station Pearl Harbor via the MQ-9B crew. The CTF then directed a coordinated constructive “kill” of the simulated submarine with notional torpedoes dropped from the MH-60s. The ASW payload on the SeaGuardian uses the latest version of General Dynamics Mission Systems’ Sonobuoy Processor.

“These advanced tactics, techniques, and procedures utilizing MUM-T further reinforce the advantages to unmanned aircraft in combat with less risk to force,” said GA-ASI Vice President of DoD Strategic Development Patrick Shortsleeve.

The IBP-23 exercise is the third time GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SeaGuardian has supported this annual event. These exercises generate warfighting advantages for the Fleet by providing the operational environment to work through tactics, techniques, procedures, and command and control to refine and enhance warfighting. The Fleet IBP series is led by Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet and executed by Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet and will continue throughout May 2023.

Posted in Maritime, Navy, UAS | Comments Off on SeaGuardian Used by USN in Support of Integrated Battle Problem