August 2023 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for August, 2023

Davis-Monthan AFB Identified as AFSOC’s Next Power Projection Wing

Tuesday, August 8th, 2023

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

The Department of the Air Force selected Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, as the preferred location to host Air Force Special Operation Command’s third power projection wing.

Transforming the 492nd Special Operations Wing into a power projection wing with all of AFSOC’s mission capabilities (strike, mobility, ISR, air/ground integration) will enable the Air Force to regionally focus each power projection wing on a geographic combatant commander. The transition will also allow AFSOC to further diversify its locations to protect against natural disasters by ensuring it can maintain its ability to respond to president-directed missions on very tight timelines.

The additional location will also permit AFSOC to take advantage of the Barry M. Goldwater Range, which will provide additional training opportunities, capacity and increased prioritization as its forces prepare to meet the priorities of the National Defense Strategy.

Standing up the new wing at Davis-Monthan AFB requires several relocations, planned throughout the next five years. The final decision will be made following completion of the environmental impact analysis process.

The following outlines the planned transition actions:

The 492nd SOW at Hurlburt Field, Florida, will relocate to Davis-Monthan AFB. The relocation includes the 492nd SOW’s transition from support wing into a power projection wing.

The U-28 Draco fleets at Cannon AFB, New Mexico, and Hurlburt Field will be replaced by the OA-1K Armed Overwatch aircraft. As part of the 492nd SOW’s transition to a power projection wing, one OA-1K Armed Overwatch squadron will relocate from Hurlburt Field to Davis-Monthan AFB.

An MC-130J Commando II squadron will relocate from Cannon AFB to Davis-Monthan AFB to join the 492nd SOW.

An additional MC-130J squadron will activate at Davis-Monthan AFB.

The 21st Special Tactics Squadron will relocate from Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina, to Davis-Monthan AFB.

The 22nd Special Tactics Squadron will relocate from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, to Davis-Monthan AFB.

The 492nd Theater Air Operations Squadron will activate at Duke Field and transfer to Davis- Monthan AFB.

The 47th Fighter Squadron (24 A-10s), the 354th Fighter Squadron (26 A-10s) and the 357th Fighter Squadron (28 A-10s) at Davis-Monthan AFB will inactivate and their respective A-10s will be retired. The 47th FS and 357th FS will continue A-10 formal training until inactivation.

The 34th Weapons Squadron and the 88th Test and Evaluation Squadron will relocate from Nellis AFB, Nevada, to Davis-Monthan AFB, transferring five HH-60W Jolly Green IIs.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Forces Focus, Guest Post, SOF | 4 Comments »

GA-ASI Mojave STOL UAS Completes First Dirt Operation

Monday, August 7th, 2023

Mojave Demonstrates Takeoff and Landing Versatility on Unimproved Surface

SAN DIEGO – 03 August 2023 – On August 1, 2023, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) completed multiple successful takeoffs and landings with its Mojave Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) on a dirt strip near El Mirage, Calif.

The ability to take off and land on unimproved surfaces demonstrates Mojave’s departure from traditional fixed-wing aircraft’s dependance on prepared runways. This new capability provides greater versatility and allows the aircraft to operate in areas previously deemed unsuitable for UAS operations.

“Being able to execute missions in austere locations with runway independence opens the operational envelope for commanders across all services and geographic locations,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “Mojave can do this while retaining significant advantages in endurance and persistence over Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) and manned aircraft.”

The flight tests were the first-ever Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) on a dirt surface for Mojave. Takeoffs were performed in as little as 586 feet; and short landings were completed in as little as 335 feet. The tests were primarily focused on gathering terrain feedback using Mojave, not achieving the shortest distances possible.

Tracing its lineage from the MQ-1C Gray Eagle and MQ-9 Reaper, Mojave is a technical demonstrator with STOL capability, making it a versatile expeditionary UAS. Adhering to Modular Open System Approach (MOSA) principles, Mojave leverages the modernized avionics, data links, sensor integration, and laptop ground control station of GA-ASI’s Gray Eagle 25M program. These features – along with Mojave’s enlarged wings with high-lift devices, combat-proven 450-HP turbine engine, and ruggedized landing gear – make it ideal for semi-improved surfaces with a small ground support footprint.

Mojave provides options for forward-basing operations without the need for typical airport runways or infrastructure, so it can be rapidly deployed from and recovered to non-traditional discrete locations. To extend operational reach, Mojave can fit into a C-130 and be rapidly assembled and employed. These innovations make Mojave the perfect UAS to perform Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA), attack, and contested logistics support missions.

Designed to be rapidly deployable and expeditionary, Mojave’s tailored features include a ruggedized airframe that enables operations in austere conditions and weatherization that enables flight in wider environmental windows. Robust wing storage means it can carry up to 16 Hellfire or equivalent missiles, assorted munitions, Launched Effects (LEs), or logistical resupply pods. Mojave can provide greater operational flexibility while still being equipped with a multi-sensor suite that includes Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR), Synthetic Aperture Radar/Ground Moving Target Indicator (SAR/GMTI), Electronic Intelligence (ELINT), and Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) to support land or maritime missions throughout Joint All-Domain Operations (JADO).

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Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM) Celebrate Two Decades of Innovation in Public Marketing and Communications

Monday, August 7th, 2023

Saint Augustine, Fla. (August 2023) – Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM) celebrates 20 years as the public relations and marketing communications firm of choice for law enforcement, public safety, military, outdoor, shooting sports, hunting, and forensic markets. Since its inception in 2003, LBM has established itself as a reliable and trustworthy partner, consistently delivering exceptional results and driving growth and brand awareness for its esteemed clientele.

Over the past two decades, LBM has continuously evolved, adapting to the dynamic landscape of the marketing world. Founded by firearms industry veteran Laura Burgess in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the company has grown to be a widely recognized and respected agency in the firearms, tactical, shooting sports, outdoor, military, and law enforcement markets. The company relocated to New Bern, North Carolina in the summer of 2010, and then again to its current location in Saint Augustine, Florida in the fall of 2020. Ashley Burgess Gall joined the company in 2009 as one of the first pioneers of social media marketing within this industry, introducing large firms such as SIG SAUER and BLACKHAWK! to Facebook. Today, this mother-daughter duo continues to champion its clients through its top-notch marketing and public relations solutions.

“Reaching the twenty-year mark is a significant accomplishment for our agency,” said Laura Burgess, Founder and President of LBM. “We owe our success to our loyal clients and industry partners who have supported us throughout this incredible journey. As we celebrate this milestone, we are also looking forward to the next chapter, continuing to innovate and exceed expectations in the years to come.”

To commemorate this momentous occasion, LBM will unveil a special blog series interviewing its founder, Laura Burgess, on varying topics, including her business, industry trends, and more. The first part of the series will be released on its blog on Aug. 10, 2023.

LBM currently offers a full range of public relations and marketing communications services as part of its retainer program, including, but not limited to, press release writing and distribution, public and writer relations, editorial placement, product placement, digital marketing, content marketing, news wire services, social media management, influencer programs, advertising strategies, media scheduling and buying, corporate communications, and event planning. The goal of LBM has always been to service and propel the brands of small to medium-sized businesses who often either do not have the budget, time, or marketing expertise. With over 40 combined years of experience in marketing, corporate management, and public relations, LBM helps companies build better brand awareness to the media and their customers through traditional and emerging media methods.

LBM also offers a la carte services to companies who may not need a PR Agency on retainer, such as the popular LBM PR Wire. For a small fee, companies can utilize the LBM team to write and distribute one press release to LBM’s proprietary and web-based subscription databases. LBM also offers PR Bundle packages where the more PRs that are purchased, the more the client saves.

As LBM looks ahead to the future, the agency remains steadfast in its mission to be a driving force for positive change in the marketing industry, embracing emerging technologies and trends while staying true to its core values of integrity, creativity, and exceptional service.

Looking to learn more about LBM’s bundle of services for your company? Reach out to ashley@lauraburgess.com or call 603-682-3316.

For more information on Laura Burgess Marketing, please visit www.lauraburgess.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM) Celebrate Two Decades of Innovation in Public Marketing and Communications

SOFWERX – Small Business Boot Camp

Monday, August 7th, 2023

SOFWERX, in coordination with the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP), will provide a forum 12-14 September 2023, for Small Businesses with technologies that support National Security Interests and/or the USSOCOM technology interest areas to learn more about doing business with USSOCOM. Additionally, the event will provide an opportunity for Small Business engagement with government stakeholders, investors, and prime contractors in the form of “Speed Dating” and a “Pitch Day.”

Day 1: Presenters will provide an overview of USSOCOM as well as information on the basic components and requirements of working with the Department of Defense, and how to engage with USSOCOM. In addition, there will be briefings from external support organizations and mechanisms that can help you to prepare and scale your business. Additionally, we will provide a forum for Small Businesses to engage with government stakeholders and investors in the form of “Speed Dating.”

Day 2: The second day will consist of more presentations, as well as another “Speed Dating” session between Small Businesses and Prime Contractors.

Day 3: The third and final day will consist of more presentations, as well as a VC panel with a Q&A session. Finally, there will also be an opportunity for investors to engage with and receive pitches from USSOCOM SBIR/STTR Phase II awardees.

The OSBP is dedicated to helping you and your business. They will explain known requirements, help you understand who buys what within the Command, and can assist you in locating other likely markets within DoD and developing strategies for accessing those markets. They provide information and guidance on defense procurement policies and procedures as well as methods for identifying prime contracting and subcontracting opportunities.

Request to Attend NLT 21 August 11:59 PM ET.

Details at events.sofwerx.org/sbbc3.

Posted in Industry, SOF | Comments Off on SOFWERX – Small Business Boot Camp

New Muzzle Devices from Forward Control Designs

Monday, August 7th, 2023

6315KM-S, 5.56mm, available in the 1/2×28 thread pitch, is an extremely short muzzle device for Dead Air KeyMo and Key Micro Suppressors. At 2.063″ long, it’s tiny compared to the 6315KM (2.4″). However, it can still take a 14.5″ barrel to over 16″ with 0.1″ of shims, making it great for P&W builds. 6315KM-S, 9mm (available in 1/2×28 and 1/2×36) is sized to accommodate 9mm, making it well-suited for PDWs and PCCs chambered in 9mm.

Like the 6315, 6315KM-S 5.56mm has asymmetric ports to optimize muzzle rise compensation without creating obnoxious concussion and noise. Its 3 and 9 o’clock ports are slightly smaller and shorter, which forces more gas to be vented through the 3 upward-facing ports. 6315KM-S is a solid candidate for SBRs, and for users that want their carbines as short as possible. Shortening the flash suppressor has minimal impact on its flash suppression and compensator performance. It is made of 4140 steel, and then heat treated and black nitride finished. As always, proudly designed and made in Texas, USA.

The 6315KM-S is available now on the Forward Controls website and through authorized dealers. For more information about this product and other offerings from Forward Controls, please visit our website or contact us directly.

www.forwardcontrolsdesign.com/6315KM-S-556mm_p_510

www.forwardcontrolsdesign.com/6315km-s-9mm-12-x-28

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 1 Comment »

American Rheinmetall Vehicles and Team Lynx Awarded Contract for U.S. Army’s XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle program

Monday, August 7th, 2023

The U.S. Army has awarded American Rheinmetall Vehicles (Sterling Heights, MI) and the industry leading companies of Team Lynx – Textron Systems, Raytheon Technologies, L3Harris Technologies, Allison Transmission, and Anduril Industries – a contract for the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV) Phase 3 Detailed Design and Phase 4 Prototype Build and Test phases of the five-phased program, now named the XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle program. The Army awarded a total of two contracts for Phase 3 and 4 performance. The two competitors will now complete the designs that began in the Phase 2 Concept Design phase and build at least seven and as many as 11 prototypes for Army evaluation with a full contract value in excess of $700 million.

“American Rheinmetall Vehicles and our teammates are excited about the award and we look forward to continuing our important work with the Army in this critical modernization program,” said Matthew Warnick, Managing Director for American Rheinmetall Vehicles. “Team Lynx brings together some of the finest defense technology companies in the world and will deliver a truly transformational, modern Infantry Combat Vehicle that ensures our Soldiers can fight, survive, and win on future battlefields.“

American Rheinmetall Vehicles and Team Lynx are developing a next-generation XM30 that achieves the Army’s requirements for a combat vehicle with superior protection, unsurpassed firepower, and unbeatable mobility. Operating with other units or independently, the vehicle can sense, move, and strike in a connected, rapidly changing, complex, and lethal operational environment unlike any Infantry Combat Vehicle before.

With its modular design and open architecture, the Army can tailor the Lynx OMFV to meet specific missions or threats, rapidly evolving to adapt to future requirements. These features also significantly reduce the training and logistics burden, leading to greater operational readiness. The Lynx OMFV’s Ground Combat Systems Common Infrastructure Architecture (GCIA) hosts an electrical, software, and structural architecture that results in a uniquely modular concept that reduces production and lifecycle costs. This open systems approach to the vehicle architecture, coupled with weight growth margin and electrical power reserve, delivers a transformational platform today that is prepared for rapid adoption and insertion of the emerging new technologies of the future – ensuring overmatch today and overmatch tomorrow.

“American Rheinmetall Vehicles has brought together remarkable companies, ideas, technologies, and approaches to deliver a truly next-generation, lethal, survivable, and enduring infantry fighting vehicle concept,” said retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Bill Mayville, a member of the ARV Board of Directors. “This team is delivering on the Army’s highest and most ambitious priorities and I am confident it will continue to bring exceptional solutions as part of this important modernization effort.”

Design work for the upcoming phases will primarily take place at American Rheinmetall Vehicles’ facility in Sterling Heights, MI, with support from partners across the country. Final prototype assembly is slated to be done at the Textron Systems production facility in Slidell, LA. Upon completion of Phases 3 and 4, the Army plans to down select to one vendor for Low-Rate Initial Production in Phase 5 of the program near the end of 2027.

Posted in Army, Contracts, Press Release | Comments Off on American Rheinmetall Vehicles and Team Lynx Awarded Contract for U.S. Army’s XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle program

Nick’s Handmade Boots – Custom Configuration Tactical Boot

Monday, August 7th, 2023

The Tactical Boot by Nick’s Handmade Boots is customized for each buyer.

Everything is customizable, from the length and width, to the fabrics, to the eyelets, to the height. You can even select the type and shape of toe.

There are three choices for upper leather, in Black or Coyote.

• Classic MaxSupport work leather standard on our Builderpro models is 7-8oz of the most supportive leather available. While it may be accompanied by a longer break in time, this leather tannage will provide optimal support even after years of wear.

• 1964 Easy Break-in leather is a Nicks exclusive offering. Packed full of more oils, this leather is more supple and provides an easier break in than the traditional work leathers. Still weighing in at about 7-8oz in thickness there is no sacrifice on durability.

• Nicks WeatherShield leather is impregnated with a silcone solution during the tanning process, making it more water resistant than typical oil tanned leathers. The water beads right off of this heavy 7-8oz option.

Offered in 6″ or 8″ heights, the 8″ features a padded collared which is lined with a high performance Sunbrella® fabric that is long lasting, and tear resistant.

The Vibram’s Sierra Outsole is attached via 365 Stitchdown Construction. The mid-sole consists of a 8IR rubber midsole, with a military grade ployurethane wedge.

The interior of the boot features a full length 6-7oz veg tan leather insole, that will take the shape of your foot which can be removed when it wears out, or replaced with your preferred insole.

You can also get a plain or capped toe, with or without safety options.

nicksboots.com/tactical-boot-custom-configuration

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