February 2024 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for February, 2024

NFM France, Cooneen Protection Ltd and Partners Awarded Major Contract by French MOI

Friday, February 16th, 2024

NFM Group and Cooneen Protection Ltd are proud to announce a landmark con-tract awarded by the French Ministry of Interior (MOI). The consortium, with NFM France SAS acting as the representative, alongside Cooneen Protection Ltd and NFM Production Sp. z o.o. has been selected to supply Individual Bulletproof Vests 2022 (GPB-I) and tactical vest for various French security forces.

NFM Group and Cooneen Protection Ltd take immense pride in being entrusted with the responsibility of providing state-of-the-art protective gear to France’s protectors. This achievement underscores our joint commitment to protecting those who safeguard French communities, and we are proud to contribute to their safety with our products.

The objective of the tender was to provide advanced protective gear for the Police Nationale, Gendarmerie Nationale, Gendarmerie Maritime, French Customs, Security and Defense Cooperation Directorate, and Penitentiary Administration.

“The solution is a combination of protection and modularity thanks to the combination of products including the tactical vest: it is scalable which leads to being fully compliant with the users need to accomplish all aspects of their daily missions,” says Johann Le Cunff Managing Director NFM France.

The contract includes two lots:

• Lot 1: Supply of a substantial quantity of Individual Bulletproof Vests and Tactical Vests, specifically designed for female operators.

• Lot 2: Supply of a significant number of Individual Bulletproof Vests and Tactical Vests, tailored for male operators.

The contract entails the delivery of up to 511,350 concealment vests and 415,596 tactical vests, catering to both male and female operators, over a period of four years.

The French Ministry of Interior (MOI) is at the forefront of a pioneering initiative within the protective gear sector, as demonstrated by their latest requirements set out in two distinct lots. It is particularly noteworthy that the French MOI has acknowledged and catered to the specific needs for female operators’ protective gear.

“In Lot 1, they have established an industry-leading approach by requesting a comprehensive range of body armour, distinctly designed for the unique requirements of female personnel. This progressive move reflects a profound understanding of the importance of comfort, fit, and protection in crafting gear for female end-users,” says Neville McIlwrath, Business Support Director at Cooneen Protection Ltd.

Lot 2, with its focus on male operators, ensures all personnel are equally outfitted with the highest standards of protection. Collectively, these lots underscore our dedication to fulfilling the diverse requirements of the French MOI, while showcasing our ability to innovate and adapt in a rapidly evolving industry.

“NFM and Cooneen are honoured to be part of this visionary development initiated by the French MOI. Our contribution to supplying these bespoke products not only meets a critical need but also marks our participation in a significant shift towards inclusivity and innovation in protective gear,” says Johann Le Cunff.

COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND COLLABORATION

NFM France and Cooneen Protection Ltd. came together in a unique collaboration to provide an innovative and leading solution to the requirements of the French MOI. Both companies who are leaders in their respective markets worked closely together to develop and submit a winning solution to both female and male body armour requirements established by the French MOI.

“We were excited by the prospect of working with NFM in this unique arrangement. Our collaboration highlights the value of combining specialized skills and industry-leading expertise, and we look forward to the successful delivery of the contract,” says Neville McIlwrath.

NFM France’s commitment to local expertise is also clearly demonstrated through our strong engagement with leading French raw material suppliers.

“The contract highlights our strong collaboration with leading French raw material partners and underscores NFM’s commitment to incorporating first-choice French materials in our product composition, showcasing our pride working with top-tier local suppliers,” says Johann Le Cunff.

This contract with the French MOI marks a significant milestone for both NFM Group and Cooneen Protection.

“This partnership not only reinforces our commitment to supporting those who protect us but also strengthens NFM’s position as a major player in France,” says Johann Le Cunff.

“Cooneen are pleased to have been selected to continue to supply vital body armour products to the French MOI and look forward to further developing our position in the French market,” says Neville McIlwrath.

Posted in Armor, Contracts, International, Press Release | Comments Off on NFM France, Cooneen Protection Ltd and Partners Awarded Major Contract by French MOI

AARDVARK Tactical’s PROJECT7 Launches P7 Saves Initiative, Celebrates First Save

Friday, February 16th, 2024

La Verne, CA – PROJECT7 Armor is proud to announce the launch of its new P7 Saves Initiative. This project celebrates the resilience of law enforcement and military personnel who survive critical incidents in the field while wearing PROJECT7 products. The program will highlight the inspiring survival stories of the men and women PROJECT7 was founded to protect.

P7 Saves launches with the story of Jordan Robison, a San Bernardino, CA police officer who survived multiple gunshot wounds from a 10mm Glock during a vehicle takedown of an attempted murder suspect in August 2021. Robison was hit a total of seven times, with five rounds hitting outside the coverage of his PROJECT7 Scalable Entry Vest. Robison was struck once in each arm (fracturing both), once in the shoulder, once in the abdomen below his armor, and once in the leg resulting in a shattered femur. Two additional rounds were stopped by his armor with one deflecting off of his cummerbund creating a grazing wound to his side, and the second in the center of his rifle plate directly over his abdominal aorta.

After multiple surgeries and intensive physical and occupational therapy, Jordan was released from the hospital to continue his road to recovery. Today, Jordan is currently retired from law enforcement and working toward becoming a Physician’s Assistant. His goal is to work in the same hospital that treated him.

Jordan’s survival was due in large part to the heroic actions of his team members. This is especially true for Officer Chris Shipley, who treated Jordan with his own tourniquet despite also being shot in the leg, and Medic Spence Brumbaugh who kept Jordan alive during transport, giving the trauma team precious time to save Jordan once he arrived at the hospital.

Reflecting on the experience, Jordan said, “If I had to say one thing to the people who trained me, to all the people I’ve worked with over the years, to the people who made my armor, to the doctors who actually saved me– from the bottom of my heart, thank you.”

AARDVARK CEO and Founder of PROJECT7 Jon Becker summed up the experience by saying, “Jordan is the first save for PROJECT7. When we set out to build PROJECT7, we knew that eventually, someone’s life would depend upon our armor. That is why we chose the best possible ballistic partner in Safariland and it is what inspired us to build the best possible armor system. It is hard to express how grateful we are that Jordan is alive and healthy to experience the rest of his life.”

Jordan’s story is a real-world example of PROJECT7’s purpose. To celebrate this occasion PROJECT7 has released a short documentary of Jordan’s story which can be found at: aardvarktactical.com/p701

Posted in Armor, Press Release | Comments Off on AARDVARK Tactical’s PROJECT7 Launches P7 Saves Initiative, Celebrates First Save

FirstSpear Friday Focus – Just The Tip v4

Friday, February 16th, 2024

Just The Tip v4 is LIVE!

Just The Tip v4 is a salute to those who’ve seen it all, done it all, and lived to tell the tale. Following the fine lineage of tips that have gone before, this shirt is crafted for the fearless & those in the know. Wear it with a smirk, this shirt is not for the faint of heart. FirstSpear is not liable for broken necks from turning heads.

This is a short batch, limited edition drop, get on it!

• Limited Edition
• Veteran designed & Veteran printed in the USA
• Cotton Poly Blend
• Tagless

Visit FirstSpear to find American Made kit and accessories, Built For The X.

Posted in Advertiser, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post | Comments Off on FirstSpear Friday Focus – Just The Tip v4

PEO Soldier Equips First Unit with the Army’s Next-Generation Combat Helmet

Friday, February 16th, 2024

WASHINGTON – On Feb. 12, 2024, PEO Soldier fielded the Next-Generation Integrated Head Protection System to approximately 2,000 Soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, marking the first-unit-equipped milestone in enhancing Soldier protection.

The NG-IHPS is the Army’s newest combat helmet, replacing the previously fielded Integrated Head Protection System, the Advanced Combat Helmet, and the Enhanced Combat Helmet. The combat-ready NG-IHPS consists of a retention system, suspension system, helmet cover and a night vision device bracket that is able to integrate a mandible protector, hearing protection, communications and heads-up displays like the Integrated Visual Augmentation System and the Enhanced Night Vision Goggle-Binocular.

“This fielding marks significant progress for Soldier protective equipment as it equips Soldiers with protection against relevant battlefield threats, and the innovative helmet design is a purpose-built platform for integration now, and with future Soldier-enabling devices,” said Lt. Col. Ken Elgort, product manager for Soldier Protective Equipment.

The NG-IHPS, which will be fielded to the close-combat force, interfaces with the next generation of night vision devices, while the mandible protector mounts onto the front of the NG-IHPS for additional protection. The mandible protector is fielded to 6% of the force operating in a mounted configuration.

“The NG-IHPS provides increased ballistic and fragmentation protection while reducing the weight required to previously reach this protection level by 40%,” said Maj. Matthew Nulk, assistant program manager of the Head Protection Team. “This is world-leading rifle threat protection we’re providing to our Soldiers.”

According to Alex de Groot, lead engineer for the Head Protection Team, “The boltless retention system and night vision device bracket mount on without compromising the helmet’s structural integrity, thus increasing protection.”

PEO Soldier will equip the 2nd and 3rd Brigade Combat Teams, 82nd Airborne Division, this quarter and will complete fielding to all close-combat force units over the next three years.

Program Executive Office Soldier is responsible for the rapid prototyping, procurement and fielding of equipment for Soldiers. NG-IHPS is part of the Soldier Survivability portfolio, the largest portfolio within PEO Soldier. The NG-IHPS is one part of the Soldier Protection System, which also includes the Modular Scalable Vest, the Ballistic Combat Shirt, the Blast Pelvic Protector and the Vital Torso Protection hard armor plates.

By U.S. Army Public Affairs

The photo is an Army photo of an IHPS, but not from this fielding.

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Helmets, PEO-Soldier | 10 Comments »

Schiebel Camcopter S-100 Receives Operational Approval from Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)

Thursday, February 15th, 2024

Australia, Perth, 13 February 2024 – Wedgetail Aerospace, supported by Schiebel Pacific, successfully obtained the approval from the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to operate the Schiebel CAMCOPTER® S-100 Unmanned Air System (UAS) in civil airspace. It is the first large (>150 kg) Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) UAS to attain this civil approval from the Australian authorities.

Wedgetail Aerospace, in close cooperation with Schiebel Pacific and the Australian authorities, completed the process to achieve their experimental approval with a series of flight demonstrations in Western Australia. This endorsement enables the S-100 to operate in Australian civil airspace. Possible applications now being pursued include fire and disaster monitoring, cargo delivery, as well as inspections and surveillance.

Additionally, Wedgetail Aerospace is a CASA approved training organisation and will offer an S-100 license for civil operations. Of note, the S-100 is regularly flying under a Defence Aviation Safety Agency (DASA) UAS permit, which the Royal Australian Navy obtained back in 2017 for their S-100 operations.

“This is a significant milestone for Schiebel Pacific and its Australian RPAS operations. The CASA approval enables us to offer the outstanding capabilities of the CAMCOPTER® S-100 system to the civil sector. With strong local partners, our wealth of experience in the operation of the S-100 and now with the approval of CASA, we are very well positioned for the Australian commercial market,” said Fabian Knechtl, Managing Director at Schiebel Pacific.

“Wedgetail Aerospace are delighted to have been able to work with Schiebel to achieve the first approval in Australia to operate a Large Category UAS and will now bring this transformational technology to the commercial market”, said Thomas Symes CEO of Wedgetail Aerospace.

Posted in Aviation, International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on Schiebel Camcopter S-100 Receives Operational Approval from Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)

Remington Launches Full Safe Sweepstakes

Thursday, February 15th, 2024

LONOKE, Ark. – February 15, 2024 – Remington Ammunition has officially kicked off the Full Safe Sweepstakes – Big Green’s biggest consumer sweepstakes yet.

Featuring a massive prize assortment from leading industry brands including Remington Arms, Remington Safes, Nighthawk Custom, Leupold Optics, Silencer Central, and Remington Ammunition, sweepstakes entrants can win one of two prize packages, detailed below.

With prizes valued at $10,000, every hunter and shooter will want to sign up for their chance to win.

To enter the Full Safe Sweepstakes, click here.

Grand Prize

• Nighthawk Custom GRP 30 Super Carry IOS

• Remington 30 Super Carry Ammunition

Second Place Prize

• Remington Safe Gun Club Series 36-Gun Safe

• RemArms Model 700 SPS Tactical Rifle

• Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Scope

• Silencer Central BANISH Backcountry Suppressor, tax stamp

• Remington Ammunition Core-Lokt Tipped

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. PURCHASE DOES NOT IMPROVE CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 48 CONTIGUOUS UNITED STATES, 21+. VOID in HI, AK, CA, MA, DE, RI, IL, NJ, NY, DC, CT, MD, WA, VA, CO & WHERE RESTRICTED OR PROHIBITED. FULL SAFE SWEEPSTAKES (“Sweepstakes”) starts at 8:00AM CT 2.15.24 and ends at 8:00AM CT 3.11.24. For How to Enter, Complete Eligibility Requirements, Prizes, Odds of Winning, and Full Official Rules, visit SWEEPSTAKES WEBSITE. Sponsor: Ammunition Operations LLC d/b/a Remington Ammunition, 2592 AR-15 N Lonoke, AR 72086.

Find Remington ammunition at dealers nationwide and online. For more information on Remington ammunition and accessories, visit www.remington.com.

Posted in Contest, Press Release | 3 Comments »

Vortex Introduces the Defender-ST Micro Red Dot

Thursday, February 15th, 2024

The all-purpose red dot for recreational tactical shooters,
law enforcement, and hunters.

BARNEVELD, Wis. – Struggling to find a red dot that works great on all your guns? Vortex® hears you. That’s why we’re excited to introduce the new Defender-ST™. It’s the new all-purpose micro red dot designed for everything–from your handgun to your shotgun, paired up with a carbine, or piggybacked on your AR’s LPVO.

Whether running drills at the range or meeting the demands of duty use, the Defender-ST™ is ready when and wherever you are. Rugged and reliable? It’s a given. Large sight window? Absolutely. Motion-activation and a dot with adjustable brightness deliver superior target acquisition, adaptability in all lighting conditions, and faster follow-up shots. Other design benefits include:

• 7075 ALUMINUM SIGHT HOUSING for added strength and corrosion resistance

• LARGE ASPHERICAL LENS for distortion-free sight picture and truer colors

• ADVANCED SHOCKSHIELD™ POLYMER INSERT to protect against hard, daily abuse

• FAST-RACK™ TEXTURED FRONT FACE that adds grip for racking slide

• ADJUSTABLE BRIGHTNESS for customizable illumination settings

• 10-MINUTE AUTO-SHUTOFF to preserve battery life

• MOTION ACTIVATED for instant readiness when you need it

• DELTAPOINT® PRO FOOTPRINT for versatile mounting on pistols, ARs, and shotguns

• 3 or 6 MOA red dot reticles available

Experience what shooters mean when they discuss the ideal, all-round red dot. With the Defender-ST™ (MSRP: $469.99/MAP: $329.99), you’re not just range-ready, but armored for the toughness and adaptability your world demands.

Want a closer look? Watch this product overview video for a deeper dive into the rugged, versatile Defender-ST™ designed for handguns, ARs, and shotguns.

To see more from Vortex®, visit VortexOptics.com.

Posted in Optics, Press Release | 2 Comments »

Wiley X to Assemble All New Products at Frisco Headquarters

Thursday, February 15th, 2024

This move signifies a commitment to creating additional jobs at the company’s Frisco location.

Wiley X, the global pioneer and leader in premium protective eyewear, is proud to announce that the brand will now assemble all new products from its 2024 lineup and beyond in-house at its Frisco, Texas headquarters. This move signifies a commitment to creating additional jobs at the company’s Frisco location, ensuring quality control, and streamlining production processes.

“As a Veteran-founded and second-generation American business, this has been a dream of ours for quite some time,” said Dan Freeman, CEO and Co-Owner of Wiley X. “We are proud and excited to continue building our business by not only designing but also assembling products in Frisco. We look forward to the opportunities it will create for our hardworking teams in the U.S. that made this all possible.”

Wiley X has built a reputation for providing world-class eye protection for those who serve, work, and play in life’s harshest environments. With the decision to assemble its new products at the Frisco headquarters, the company aims to further expand its manufacturing capabilities with additional product options and services for customers. Streamlined U.S. production will lead to quicker response times, faster product availability for customers, and an accelerated warranty and replacement program.

“For over 30 years Wiley X has provided the best possible protection and performance for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike,” says Myles Freeman, President and Co-Owner of Wiley X. “By bringing assembly of new products under our own roof we’re taking even greater control of the manufacturing process, guaranteeing the highest quality standards while creating exciting opportunities for our team here in Frisco.”

The decision to assemble new products at the Frisco headquarters also brings economic benefits to the local community. By creating more job opportunities in the area, Wiley X continues to contribute to the growth and development of Frisco, making it an even more vibrant hub for innovation and opportunity.

For more information about Wiley X and its range of eyewear products, visit www.wileyx.com.

Posted in Eyepro, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Wiley X to Assemble All New Products at Frisco Headquarters