October 2023 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for October, 2023

40th Anniversary of Operation Urgent Fury

Wednesday, October 25th, 2023

On the morning of October 25th, 1983, America awoke to reports that US forced had invaded the small Caribbean nation of Grenada, in order to liberate American medical students from danger posed by political instability. Joined by Regional Security System troops from a variety of Caribbean partner nations, they swiftly overwhelmed the Grenadian and Cuban troops.

While Operation Urgent Fury was in name a joint force operation, and included the use of Special Operations Forces, it highlighted many interoperability challenges, such as use of joint operational overlays and communications issues.

Several stove pipe problems suffered by the pre-Goldwater-Nichols military were identified during this operation. Additionally, Urgent Fury was conducted with many systems dating from the Vietnam war.

Just six years later, during the invasion of Panama, saw the first employment of several new weapons developed during the Reagan buildup such as the F-117 stealth fighter and the Marine Corps LAV-25. Grenada was a great learning experience for the US military as it highlighted issues with joint service operations, particularly in the communications arena as well as interoperability between Special Operations and General Purpose forces. For example, SOF also took a much more prominent role in operation Blue Spoon during the Panama invasion. We’ve come even further in the past three decades.

Finally, as with any conflict, lives were lost. Let us not forget the 19 Americans killed in action and the 116 who were wounded. Unfortunately, there were also 24 Grenadian civilians killed in the conflict.

Posted in Cold War, History | Comments Off on 40th Anniversary of Operation Urgent Fury

CMSAF Underscores Need for 137th SOW Multi-Capable Airmen

Wednesday, October 25th, 2023

WILL ROGERS AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Okla. (AFNS) —

Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass saw firsthand how Airmen with the 137th Special Operations Wing set the Oklahoma Standard across the force during a visit Oct. 12.

She encouraged every service member she met to understand the “why” of the Air Force’s prioritization of learning multiple skill sets and becoming multi-capable Airmen, noting that the wing had leaned into the concept through its mission sustainment team.

“I hope you appreciate learning this skill set that we hopefully will never have to tap into,” Bass said. “We are more focused on reoptimization than we ever have been before. How do we reoptimize what the Air Force looks like to do the number one thing we are supposed to: defend our nation?”

She noted that the variety of civilian and military experience of Air National Guardsmen makes them ready-made to be formed into small mission teams, whether someone is a power production specialist in the Guard and a mechanic as a civilian, or a fireman in the Guard and a carpenter as a civilian.

Staff Sgt. Anthony Hill, 137th SOW Mission Sustainment Team, or MST, member, is a civil engineer Airman and policy analyst for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma as a civilian. He encountered the MCA concept during a previous deployment to Africa where they did not have the equipment and training needed to rapidly establish a base for austere operations.

“The tent systems we were setting up were more difficult and heavier in design, it took a longer time to train individuals and assemble units with those different levels of experience and they required a dedicated power grid,” he said. “The tent systems that are now part of our MST deployment package would have made a huge difference in sustaining the mission in that expeditionary environment.”

Discovering how to better equip Airmen for expedient operations in locations with limited resources has been the focus of the MST since its inception. A photo of the MST’s preliminary training activity was featured in the U.S. Air Force “Profession of Arms” as it calls for Airmen to serve in whatever form is needed to get the mission accomplished while meeting the expected standard of excellence.

“Our number one job is to deter. If deterrence does not succeed, we will make sure that we are able to compete and win. We are not fighting conflicts that we have before. We have to optimize ourselves in the information, space and cyber domains because if you lose in those things, you lose – period.”

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass

Airmen with the 137th Special Operations Group have developed equipment to be compatible with an expeditionary warfare environment. On the tour, Bass encountered the mobile processing, exploitation and dissemination center, which was built to provide intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations in austere locations.

“We were the first to develop this package,” said Tech. Sgt. Stephen Rosebrook, 285th Special Operations Intelligence Squadron, Oklahoma National Guard. “We have since trained active-duty special operations squadrons as well as partner nation forces.”

The 137th SOW mission is to provide forces organized, trained and equipped to support combatant commanders across the spectrum of conflict. Ensuring its citizen air commandos are prepared to deploy to the fight together anytime, anywhere, is a focus of the wing.

“We have got to reprioritze and reoptimize to make sure that we can continue deterring,” Bass said. “It is not our job to predict when challenges and crises and conflict will come, but it is our job to be ready today for anything.”

By TSgt Brigette Waltermire, 137th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, SOF | Comments Off on CMSAF Underscores Need for 137th SOW Multi-Capable Airmen

Brownells Appoints Bryan Stuntebeck as Chief Revenue Officer

Tuesday, October 24th, 2023

Grinnell, Iowa (October 24, 2023) – Brownells, the leading provider of firearms accessories, gunsmithing tools, and firearm parts, is pleased to announce the promotion of Bryan Stuntebeck to the esteemed position of Chief Revenue Officer. In this elevated role, Bryan will spearhead an exceptionally talented team, driving growth and innovation across Brownells Direct Marketing and Crow Wholesale business divisions.

With a distinguished history spanning over eight decades, Brownells has upheld its reputation for excellence in the firearms industry. Bryan Stuntebeck’s elevation to Chief Revenue Officer represents a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering quality products and services to customers.

Bryan Stuntebeck brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having served in various leadership capacities within Brownells. He has consistently demonstrated a keen understanding of market dynamics, a profound appreciation for customer needs, and an unwavering dedication to nurturing a culture of excellence within the organization.

Under Bryan’s leadership, the Direct Marketing business and Crow Wholesale business divisions are poised for continued growth and success. “We are thrilled to appoint Bryan Stuntebeck as our Chief Revenue Officer,” said Pete Brownell, CEO & Chairman of Brownells. “Bryan’s leadership has been instrumental in our company’s success, and we have full confidence in his ability to steer our revenue-generating efforts. With his guidance, we are excited to embark on a new era of growth and innovation.”

Posted in Industry, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Diversitex Has Tigerstripe Cordura Laminate In Stock

Tuesday, October 24th, 2023

Diversitex has 500D Cordura laminate in both Jungle (VTS) and Desert (DTS) variants in stock.

Contact Mark at Diversitex to order.

Posted in Advertiser, Camo, Materials | Comments Off on Diversitex Has Tigerstripe Cordura Laminate In Stock

New XS Night Sights for Magnum Research Desert Eagle Pistols

Tuesday, October 24th, 2023

Fort Worth, Texas (October 24, 2023) – XS® Sights is pleased to now offer its new R3D 2.0 and DXT2 Big Dot night sights for Magnum Research Desert Eagle pistols.

R3D 2.0 Tritium Night Sights

These new and improved second-generation tritium self-defense sights are brighter, stronger, and easier than ever to install. Engineered to improve speed and accuracy in any light, the R3D 2.0 is a notch and post design with two rear tritium dots and a high-contrast Orange or Green dual-illuminated Glow Dot front sight. The Glow Dot’s self-luminous tritium vile glows in low or no light for 12 years and is surrounded by XS’ proprietary photoluminescent Glow Dot which makes the front sight brighter than the two rear tritium dots. The brightness, when combined with the wide notch, provides more visible indexing for increased precision and accuracy.

DXT2 Big Dot Night Sights

This second-generation Big Dot sight delivers ultra-fast target acquisition in any light thanks to its industry-leading large front sight with Glow Dot and tritium center. Available with an Orange or Yellow front sight, the Glow Dot is visible even before the tritium can be seen. This glow, in addition to the large dot size, improves speed and accuracy while shooting on the move. Its V-notch rear sight with vertical white stripe and tritium inset facilitates a dot-the-‘i’ sight picture that is fast and instinctive in high-stress situations.

Retail Price: $142.99

All XS sights are backed by a 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee. The company also offers a 12-year warranty on all tritium products and a limited lifetime warranty on all other products. For more information, visit www.xssights.com.

Posted in Optics, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on New XS Night Sights for Magnum Research Desert Eagle Pistols

B&T BWC9

Tuesday, October 24th, 2023

B&T’s BWC9 is a folding personal defense chassis designed to be a compact, non-descript accessory that hides in plain sight. In its folded form, it can be carried using the integrated carry handle. In this position, placing slight rearward pressure upon the charging handle, a subtle flick of the wrist completely unfolds and locks the BWC9 into its extended position. It can be refolded and stowed nearly as quickly.

The BWC is being sold as an accessory; users will provide their P320 FCU and complete slide assembly of their choice (Sub-Compact through X-Five length, including threaded barrels). Not compatible with suppressor height sights. Aimpoint ACRO P-2 is included.

Posted in Weapon Accessories | 11 Comments »

EAA & Girsan: Taking the Gloves Off for NASGW…Unbeatable Products for 2024!

Tuesday, October 24th, 2023

Cocoa, FL- At the NASGW 2023 event, EAA and Girsan are set to unveil their most exciting array of new products to date. These innovative offerings are poised to set new standards in the USA small arms market, boasting exceptional quality, advanced features, and extremely competitive pricing. We invite you to visit the EAA booth #710 at NASGW to discover more about these groundbreaking products. If you don’t stock EAA products, your competition will or is!

The Girsan 1911 Influencer™ is designed to cater to a wide range of preferences, offering multiple barrel lengths, including a 5” barrel (S) model, 4.4” barrel (C) model, and 3.4” barrel (SC) model options, and an array of calibers, such as 9mm, 45acp, 10mm, and 38 Super. This versatility ensures that shooters can find the perfect fit for their needs.

What truly sets the Influencer™ apart is its commitment to excellence without breaking the bank. With a choice of three unique finishes – All-Black, Two-Tone Tungsten, and Black Camo – it’s a pistol that not only performs but also looks the part.

But that’s not all; the Influencer™ is Optic Ready for RMS/RMSc footprint and features ambidextrous safeties, a 3-holed trigger, extended beavertail, magazine well, limited lifetime warranty, and an accessory rail (S and C models). Matched with comfortable polymer grips providing a secure hold, ensuring that every shot counts.

The Girsan 1911 Untouchable™ is a firearm dedicated to its own name of offering untouchable quality at an untouchable price!

Available in three barrel lengths, 5” barrel (S) model, 4.4” barrel (C) model, and 3.4” (SC) model, catering to various shooting preferences. Customers can choose from different calibers, including 9MM or 45ACP, as well as different finish options such as All-Black, Two-Tone Tungsten, Black Camo, or OD Green Camo. Out of the box, the EAA / Girsan Untouchable™ series is the best value in the USA 1911 platform today. All EAA / Girsan 1911s are made from forged frames and bar stock slides and barrels (No castings).

The Girsan MC9 Disruptor™ is a pistol designed to disrupt the industry with its exceptional features and unprecedented affordability. Aimed to exceed expectations, the Disruptor™ will be available in two captivating Cerakote finishes: OD Green Camo and Black Camo.

Chambered in 9mm with a 17+1 capacity, the EAA/Girsan MC9 Disruptor™ is a paragon of reliability and durability. Key features for the Disruptor™: Optic Ready (RMS/RMSc), Threaded Barrel, Accessory Rail, Enhanced Striker Trigger, Hi-Tech Cerakote Camo Finish, and Modern Low-Profile Sights. Despite its exceptional features, EAA remains committed to affordability, offering a pistol priced to disrupt the market!

“We take pride in delivering quality firearms at prices that make them accessible to all enthusiasts,” said Chase Duffey, Sales and Import Manager at EAA Corp. “The Disruptor™ is going to redefine what is possible for polymer striker-guns at such an unbeatable price.”

The Girsan 1911 and Regard MC Liberador Series

One of the highlights of the Liberador series is the Regard MC model, adorned with exquisite Santa Muerte engraved grips. Its striking mirror-polished slide, complemented by polished gold controls and small parts, exudes elegance and sophistication. The Girsan Regard MC Liberador will come complete with, an accessory rail, adjustable sights, ambidextrous slide safety/decocker, lightweight design, custom engraved grips, an 18-round magazine, and an English/Spanish manual and hangtag. MAP is $611.

The remaining four variants belong to our MC 1911 series, featuring captivating Sugar Skull pearl-like grips set against a backdrop of a polished stainless-steel slide and frame, accentuated by gold controls and small parts. The MC 1911 Liberador will come in a standard government model in either .45ACP or 9MM with an adjustable rear sight, or a Commander model chambered in 10MM with an adjustable rear sight. EAA/Girsan will also offer a government model with a standard rear sight in .45ACP. All variants will feature an accessory rail, ambidextrous safety, extended beavertail, deep slide serrations, 3-hole trigger, magazine well, low-profile sights and, an English/Spanish manual and hangtag. MAP starts at $882.

We are transitioning to a bilingual website, manuals, and hangtags in Spanish, ensuring that Spanish-speaking gun owners have access to the same high-quality resources as our English-speaking customers.

The Liberador series is a testament to our commitment to respect and appreciation of the diverse heritages that enrich our nation. We invite all firearm enthusiasts to explore the Liberador series and celebrate the unity that firearms can bring to our diverse community.

The Liberador series, and other newly announced products, will be showcased at the 2023 NASGW Expo in Columbus, OH – from Oct 25-27 in booth #710.

EAA and Girsan earning your respect, one gun at a time.For more information about all the EAA/Girsan new offerings and to stay updated on all of EAA’s current products, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, or visit our website at www.eaacorp.com.

It’s your right to bear arms. It’s your responsibility to abide by the law and use firearms safely.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release, Tradeshow | Comments Off on EAA & Girsan: Taking the Gloves Off for NASGW…Unbeatable Products for 2024!

SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ROMEO-M17 Receives NSN Designation

Tuesday, October 24th, 2023

NEWINGTON, N.H., – SIG SAUER, Inc. is honored to announce the ROMEO-M17 (RM17) red dot sight has been assigned a NATO Stock Number (NSN). This distinguished designation is part of the continued modernization efforts of the Modular Handgun System (MHS) Program. For inclusion on the MHS Additional Authorized List (AAL), the U.S. Army evaluated numerous pistol red dot sights, from multiple manufacturers, through vigorous environmental and performance evaluations and the RM17 and R2 achieved successful selection. In fact, the RM17 stood above the rest as the best performing and most durable sight evaluated. The issuance of the NSN to these products streamlines the procurement process for all NATO members and partner countries as an identified standardized material.

The ROMEO-M17 (NSN: 1240-01-713-9795) was developed from the ground up for the U.S. Army’s Modular Handgun System and is the ultimate aiming solution. The RM17 will withstand the rigors of the battlefield, featuring the proprietary SIG-LOC™ mounting system with bottom-mount technology and 5 interface points with the pistol slide, for an extremely strong and robust lock-up. Combined with the side-mounted battery the sight has an extremely low position when mounted to the slide, offering a full sight picture and co-witness with the existing standard-height iron sights.

“The assignment of an NSN number is an exciting achievement for SIG SAUER Electro-Optics and the ROMEO product line. With the global demand for these products the NSN assignment will allow for ease in the procurement process, the ability to increase our reach within the NATO countries, and faster deployment” said Andy York, President, SIG SAUER Electro-Optics. “This assignment is also significant to non-NATO customers and civilians as the NSN designation does not come easily and signifies that the ROMEO-M17 has achieved a testing and use acceptance by the world’s most discerning military customers.”

The SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ROMEO-M17 is a mil-spec, fully enclosed and gas-purged red dot reflex sight with a distortion-free glass aspheric lens and is submersible to depths up to 35 meters. Other features include a new and very robust flexure-arm adjustment system made of the same Beryllium Copper found in many riflescope designs, and a housing that is forged and machined from 7075 Aluminum with an integrated loaded chamber indicator (LCI) gas deflector and machined anti-reflection grooves on all rear facing surfaces for reduced glare. The optic incorporates a high-efficiency point source red LED emitter, with 2 MOA dot/32 MOA circle reticle, independent brightness adjustment buttons, 15 brightness settings including night vision settings, and a side-mounted CR2032 battery compartment with a threaded battery cap so the optic does not need to be removed from the pistol for battery changes. The ROMEO-M17 has a minimum continuous runtime of 50,000 hours at medium brightness setting, and utilizes MOTAC™ (Motion Activated Illumination), MAGNETAC™ (Magnetic Activation), and D.A.R.C™ (Dark Adaptive Reticles & Coatings) technologies.

ROMEO-M17 Specs:

Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

Reticle: Circle dot with 2 MOA Red Dot / 32 MOA Circle

Lens Type: Asphere

Brightness Adjustment Settings: 15 (12 Day / 3 Night Vision)

Water Resistance: Submersible to 20 meters

Overall Length: 2.4 inches

Overall Width: 0.9 inches

Overall Height: 1.1 inches

Mounting Footprint: SIG-LOC™ MHS

Battery Type: CR2032

Battery Location: Side