March 2024 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for March, 2024

Revival Defense Collaborates with Forward Controls and Rearden MFG on New Three-Prong Flash Hider & Suppressor Hub

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

3P Flash Hider:

You might already know about the “RF” series of muzzle devices that started as a collaboration between Forward Controls and Revival Defense. It was designed to be the most effective mounting solution for the ATLAS/Plan B suppressor system, which uses a short, lightweight threaded taper mount muzzle device. Revival Defense and Forward Controls Design have brought the “RF” series to completion with the 3P15 and 3P10 three-pronged flash hiders.

The RF (Revival Defense, Forward Controls) Muzzle Devices were developed to be compact yet effective muzzle devices. They also function as a durable and dependable suppressor mount without adding unnecessary weight or length to the front of your rifle. Our goal was to design a practical device for users who desire a high-performance standalone device that can securely hold their suppressor.

After extensive R&D, we’ve refined the 3P10 and 3P15 to the point where they match or exceed the flash mitigation performance of most similarly sized or larger flash hiders. A significant portion of our design process was dedicated to improving flash suppression, so releasing these devices took longer than the brake and A2-style RF muzzle devices. The 3P15 went through three revisions and the 3P10 through five before we were satisfied with their performance. Although the 3P15 is shorter and smaller in diameter than many or flash suppressors, the 3P15’s flash suppression performance competes with larger and longer flash suppressors.

Both the 3P15 and 3P10 do not produce a ‘ping’ noise when fired. The flutes on the exterior of the prongs have varying widths and depths, designed to reduce weight and give each prong a different mass to prevent them from behaving as a tuning fork. Our 3P muzzle devices are compatible with a standard armorer’s wrench and 3/4 wrench, with the wrench flats in the familiar location in the rear. This is beneficial for both installation or if a suppressor becomes seized on the rifle and additional leverage on the muzzle device is needed.

Atlas-R Hub:

The Atlas-R is a lightweight, low-profile silencer adapter that uses Revival Defense’s Patent-Pending Castle-Lock™ Design. It uses TDP Spec Castle Nut Notches, making installation and removal easy with common tools like an Armorer’s Wrench or castle-nut wrench. Once installed, the Atlas-R can accept our RF muzzle devices, Rearden, and other Plan B-compatible muzzle devices, forming a compact and lightweight suppressor mounting system. This suppressor mounting system uses a taper and threads for a reliable and repeatable seal without adding unnecessary weight or length. The taper requires about 20% more force to remove than to install.

The Castle-Lock™ system, currently patent-pending, uses a combination of TDP Spec Castle Nut Notches and four 1 5/16” wrench flats around the circumference. This gives users the ability to apply accurate torque values during installation and use common tools for installation and removal. We’ve also incorporated a flat section beneath each wrench flat, which allows for solid lockup when using a crescent or crowfoot wrench with the Atlas-R.

All Products Are Designed and Manufactured in the USA.

3P10//

• Revival Defense: www.revivaldefense.com/3p10

3P15//

• Forward Controls: www.forwardcontrolsdesign.com/3P15-12-x-28_p_550

• Revival Defense: www.revivaldefense.com/3p15

• Rooftop Defense: www.rooftopdefense.com/product/revival-defense-forward-controls-3p15-5-56-plan-b-3-prong-flash-hider-1-2×28

ATLAS-R//

• Forward Controls: www.forwardcontrolsdesign.com/atlas-r

• Revival Defense: www.revivaldefense.com/atlas-r

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Revival Defense Collaborates with Forward Controls and Rearden MFG on New Three-Prong Flash Hider & Suppressor Hub

Wilcox Ind Awarded Contract to Supply the RAAM-GSS to the German Special Forces

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

NEWINGTON, NH USA – On 27 February 2024, the German Special Forces awarded Wilcox Industries Corp. a contract to supply Rapid Acquisition Aiming Module – Grenadier Sighting System (RAAM-GSS™). This contract is the result of a multi-year competitive selection process. The RAAM-GSS™ system is a customized version of the US Army’s “Program of Record” Grenadier Sighting System (GSS). The technical foundation of the Wilcox line of grenadier sighting systems products is based on over a decade of rigorous design and development work in cooperation with the US Army.

The contract will be performed by Wilcox in partnership with its German representative and partner IEA Mil-Optics GmbH located in Nagold, Germany, that received the demand for supply of the aiming devices for the 40 mm grenade launcher. IEA Mil-Optics will be responsible for managing the supply of the fire control units and laser rangefinders to the Bundeswehr for the duration of the contract. The RAAM-GSS™ will be manufactured at Wilcox’s facility in Newington, NH USA.

In response to the contract award, James Teetzel, CEO of Wilcox stated, “We are very honored to learn of the good news that Wilcox was down selected as the global partner to the German Special Forces and IEA Mil-Optics GmbH supplying the RAAM GSS system. Our unwavering commitment to support the warfighter and safeguarding their wellbeing is utmost priority.”

A Brief History of the Design and Success of the Wilcox Grenadier Sighting System [GSS]

In 2012, Wilcox began the design and development of the US Army GSS day/night sighting system for the M320/M320A1 grenade launcher (GL). After over a decade of design refinement, development, developmental, V&V testing, operational testing, lessons learned, continuous improvement, and ongoing production in conjunction with the US Army, the GSS was confirmed to simply be the most accurate, user friendly, forward upgradeable, and heavily tested day/night sight for the M320/M320A1 GL in the world.

That was just the beginning of the long-term commitment between Wilcox and the US Army to design and manufacture the utmost advanced 40mm sighting systems available. Prototypes of the GSS then went through three years of further extensive development, testing and evaluation in a competitive contract environment. At the end, in June 2019, the US Army chose to purchase tens of thousands of GSS units (NSN: 1010-01-686-8798) with Wilcox as a single production awardee.

Like the GSS, the RAAM-GSS™ has proven to increase hit probability by significantly enhancing daytime and nighttime grenadier accuracy, simultaneously decreasing target engagement time, and is gaining user acceptance.

For more information about the RAAM-GSS™, visit www.wilcoxind.com/RAAM-GSS.

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, International, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on Wilcox Ind Awarded Contract to Supply the RAAM-GSS to the German Special Forces

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Techs Pioneer Innovative Method to Clear Stuck Artillery Round

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

FORT SILL, Okla. – U.S. Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians demonstrated flexibility, ingenuity and resourcefulness during a recent response to a lodged round in a M109A6 Paladin howitzer on Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

Army EOD Soldiers, from the 761st Ordnance Company (EOD) safely cleared the projectile that jammed during howitzer training.

Staff Sgt. Cody A. Dodd, an EOD team leader from the 761st EOD Company, coordinated with the Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Division (NAVEODTECHDIV) to implement a new strategy to clear the lodged round.

The U.S. Navy is designated as the joint service Executive Agent for EOD Technology and Training. Part of the Naval Sea Systems Command, the Naval Explosive Disposal Technology Division is used by all EOD technicians for joint EOD requirements.

“This response was unique because it is rare to receive such an incident,” said Dodd. “Being at Fort Sill, home of the artillery, you would think this is a common occurrence. However, that is not the case. I’ve been stationed here for two years and this is the first incident like this.”

After the usual stuck round procedures were unsuccessful, Dodd and the field artillery battalion commander determined that the safest course of action was for the disposition of the gun barrel and ordnance inside.

Dodd led the team that disposed of the round while it was still lodged by moving the barrel to the demolition range and assisting in the download of the 4,500-pound tube. EOD team was able to safely destroy the stuck round and the Paladin will be operational again after repair parts are installed.

“This is important to the supporting artillery units because a stuck round causes the gun to be completely inoperable,” said Dodd, a native of Wellsburg, West Virginia, who has deployed to Afghanistan and Syria during his almost nine years in the Army. “It is our job to make all efforts to attempt to enable the gun to be at a firing status again.”

Dodd said the response will serve as a lesson learned for future joint service EOD operations involving stuck rounds.

“The highlight of this response would be the demolition procedure conducted on the gun tube and ordnance,” said Dodd. “With guidance from NAVEODTECHDIV, we were able to contribute to the overall EOD force for future incidents involving this ordnance.”

The Fort Sill, Oklahoma-based 761st EOD Company is part of the 79th EOD Battalion, 71st EOD Group and 20th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosives (CBRNE) Command, the U.S. Department of Defense’s premier CBRNE formation.

From 19 bases in 16 states, Soldiers and Army civilians from 20th CBRNE Command take on the world’s most dangerous hazards in support of joint, interagency and multinational operations.

As the U.S. Army’s explosive experts, EOD technicians take on everything from hand grenades to nuclear weapons. After defeating more than 50,000 Improvised Explosive Devices in Iraq and Afghanistan, Army EOD techs are training to support ground maneuver forces during large-scale combat operations.

Army EOD technicians from the 761st EOD Company conduct target insertion, range clearance and fire break clearance missions for U.S. Army field artillery and air defense artillery units.

EOD technicians from the 761st EOD Company also enable military operations around the world and respond when military munitions are found on and off base in Oklahoma, Arkansas and across 60 counties in Texas.

Based on Fort Sill, Oklahoma, the 1-78th Field Artillery Battalion trains and educates Soldiers in fire support core competencies to support operational Army forces.

Lt. Col. Brian J. Dermody, the commander of the 1-78th Field Artillery Battalion, presented coins to the Soldiers involved in the response.

“Our fires mission is an absolutely critical part of the U.S. Army’s shift to preparing for large-scale combat operations against a near-peer adversary,” said Dermody, a native of West Chester, Pennsylvania, who has commanded the artillery battalion since July of 2023. “EOD technicians like Staff Sgt. Dodd take on the dangerous and demanding role of helping to keep us mission ready.”

By Walter T. Ham IV

Posted in Army, EOD, Guest Post | 6 Comments »

MKS Instruments Introduces Ophir IR Optics Assembly, Support, and Services in India

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

Delhi, India – March 12, 2024 – MKS Instruments, Inc. (Nasdaq: MKSI), a global provider of technologies that transform our world, announced today new assembly, support, and service capabilities for Ophir® cutting-edge infrared (IR) optics products in India. These new capabilities align seamlessly with the Indian Government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ “Make in India” initiative, demonstrating MKS’ commitment to India’s national security industry. MKS will leverage its strong local presence in India by adding Ophir IR lens assembly, support and service capabilities to its existing Atotech facilities.

“The combination of Atotech India’s well-established operations, technical capabilities, and highly qualified team with Ophir’s innovative strength and industry-leading IR optical solutions will enable us to strengthen the longstanding relations we have with the Indian national security sector,” said Kobi Lasri, General Manager of Ophir Optics Group. “This partnership marks another significant milestone in our strategic vision to deepen our collaboration with the Government of India and bolster local assembly, support, and service capabilities, supporting the self-reliance vision of the Indian government. Through these new capabilities in India, MKS reaffirms its commitment and dedication to continuous improvement, seeking to deliver products with unparalleled performance, reliability, and local support for customers worldwide.”

Additional information can be found at www.mks.com

Posted in Industry, International, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on MKS Instruments Introduces Ophir IR Optics Assembly, Support, and Services in India

Safariland Partners with Noveske Rifleworks on Liberator HP Collab

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

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, announces an exclusive collaboration with Noveske Rifleworks. Launching the Liberator® HP headset in Noveske’s signature N81 camo brings together two industry-leading brands, offering customers a limited-edition product that combines cutting-edge technology with a unique design.

Known for its exceptional quality and innovation, Noveske Rifleworks brings expertise and style to the table, elevating the Liberator HP look and feel. The N81 camo print, designed and cerakoted in-house by Noveske, is meticulously applied to the Liberator HP earcups, striking a perfect balance between visual appeal and high-performance functionality.

The Liberator HP headset represents the next generation in electronic hearing protection. Designed to withstand the rigors of any environment, this cutting-edge headset offers enhanced hearing protection, particularly in situations involving impulse gunfire noise and high-decibel, constant background audio. Wearers can rest assured knowing they are fully protected, while advanced sound localization technology allows for maximum situational awareness and sound detection.

“This Liberator HP exclusive marks the beginning of our collaboration with Noveske,” said Timothy Drnec, VP of Marketing for Safariland. “By combining our expertise in protective equipment with Noveske’s renowned craftsmanship, we are able to offer our customers a modern take on range gear.”

“Noveske is about building a community founded on the mutual respect of creating high quality product. We’re thrilled to work alongside Safariland in producing a limited run of Liberator HPs as the start of a fun and collaborative partnership and we’re excited to see what comes next,” said Jeff Pool, President of Novekse Rifleworks.

With limited sets available, the Safariland Liberator HP exclusive edition with Noveske cerakote is one of this year’s hot ticket items for the range and shooting enthusiasts.

To learn more about this exciting new release and to explore Safariland’s extensive range of holsters and tactical accessories, visit Safariland.com.

Posted in Comms, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Safariland Partners with Noveske Rifleworks on Liberator HP Collab

T.REX ARMS Releases the New Ironside Hybrid Holster

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

T.REX ARMS is pleased to announce the new “Ironside Hybrid Holster”, which utilizes our existing outside-the-waistband Ironside holster and converts it to a very comfortable inside-the-waistband rig with tuckable clips. The backer is made out of Alcantara and foam layers fused together to create a waterproof, sturdy, but comfortable pad enabling easy carry at the 3-4 o’clock position.

This hybrid style holster improves upon existing hybrid options, by maintaining complete Kydex coverage of the weapon for better performance and increased retention of weapon lights. It introduces a breathable, washable, rigid yet soft pad that brings all the strengths and none of the weaknesses of alternative hybrid backer materials.

The Ironside Hybrid Backer is compatible with all existing Ironside holsters and can be purchased as a standalone item. It allows users to switch from an OWB Ironside set up, which is ideal for concealment under jackets and winter wear, to an IWB system that is better suited for lighter summer wear.

Like all T.REX ARMS holsters, the Ironside and its backer are manufactured entirely in the USA: built to order in our Middle Tennessee facility, subjected to rigorous quality control procedures, and backed by a limited lifetime warranty and our world-class customer support team.

Posted in Holsters, Press Release | Comments Off on T.REX ARMS Releases the New Ironside Hybrid Holster

TacJobs – Flux Defense Seeks Manufacturing Engineer

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

Applicants need to be well versed in CAD, working with short sheets, prints, control plans etc. Need to live or re-locate to Utah. Email support@fluxdefense.com.

Posted in TacJobs | Comments Off on TacJobs – Flux Defense Seeks Manufacturing Engineer

Warrior Protection And Readiness Coalition Hosts Successful 2024 Legislative Sumit

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

Presents Sentinel Awards to U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) and U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) to Recognize Long Standing Support for the Defense Clothing and Equipment Industrial Base

MARBLEHEAD, MA (March 14, 2024) This past week, the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) hosted its 15th annual Legislative Summit in Washington D.C., bringing together 100 industry leaders of the domestic manufacturing companies who support the uniform and equipment needs of the warfighter. During this event, the WPRC announced that Senator John Boozman and U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) have been awarded the 2024 WPRC Sentinel Award. This accolade is in recognition of their outstanding legislative work to bolster the U.S. domestic defense industrial base, which plays a crucial role in supporting U.S. servicemembers and homeland security personnel. The Sentinel Award is annually bestowed upon members of Congress who have made significant efforts to ensure the Federal government has access to high-quality, American-made helmets, body armor, uniforms, footwear, and equipment, securing the best value for taxpayers.

“Through their committee leadership, Senator Boozman and Congressman Donald Norcross have demonstrated their unwavering support for the safety and combat effectiveness of American servicemembers,” said David Costello, Executive Director of the WPRC. “Ensuring the strength and vitality of the Berry Amendment-compliant defense industrial base secures the domestic supply chain needed to provide the most effective protective clothing and equipment for warfighters and peacekeepers both at home and abroad. The WPRC is honored to recognize both Senator Boozman’s and Congressman Norcross’ commitment to this enduring effort.”

The 2024 Legislative Summit included a speaking program including U.S. Army Brigadier General Landis Maddox, Commander, DLA Troop Support; U.S.Army Colonel Tony Lindh, Project Manager, Soldier Survivability, Program Executive Office – Soldier; and representatives from the Center for Naval Analyses (CNA) who recently conducted a wargame scenario designed to better prepare and strengthen the clothing and textile industrial base. This was an opportunity for WPRC members to hear directly from Department of Defense (DoD) and executive leadership regarding the Administration’s domestic defense industrial base priorities. The WPRC continues to lead advocacy initiatives on Capitol Hill to ensure U.S. service members and Department of Homeland Security operational agencies are equipped appropriately to carry out their mission safely, with American-made gear and equipment.

This year’s WPRC legislative objectives include ongoing support for the U.S. Army’s Soldier Enhancement Program (SEP), support for Congress to require the annual update of the U.S. Army’s Rapid Fielding Initiative (RFI), and an effort to encourage Congressional support for a Defense Production Act Title III Presidential Determination for the warfighter clothing, textiles, and equipment industrial base.

About the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition and the Sentinel Award:

The WPRC Sentinel Award is the highest honor given by the coalition, awarded annually to lawmakers who have shown exceptional support for the American industry that produces advanced combat uniforms, footwear and equipment for the Armed Services and Department of Homeland Security. WPRC member companies strive every day to provide innovative, advanced solutions to ensure that our armed forces are prepared for any encounter, anywhere in the world.

Sentinel award recipient Senator John Boozman serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee. Additionally, Senator Boozman serves on the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission. Congressman Donald Norcross was selected by his peers to be Ranking Member for the House Armed Services Committee’s Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL) Subcommittee and serves on the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.

U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) accepts the 2024 Sentinel Award presented by WPRC Board Chairman Justin Mayer, Secretary Amy Coyne, and Executive Director David Costello

U.S. Senator John Boozman (AR) accepts the 2024 Sentinel Award presented by WPRC Board Member Markin Dornan (L) and Executive Director David Costello (R)

WPRC Sentinel award recipient, U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) addresses WPRC members

United States Army Colonel Tony Lindh, Project Manager, Soldier Survivability, Program Executive Office Soldier, addresses WPRC members

United States Army Brigadier General Landis Maddox, Commander, DLA Troop Support, addresses WPRC members

Posted in Congress, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Warrior Protection And Readiness Coalition Hosts Successful 2024 Legislative Sumit