June 2024 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for June, 2024

LETEL Gains the Aerial Advantage with Drone LiDAR Technology from GeoCue

Monday, June 17th, 2024

See How LETEL Stands Out with Industry-Leading Surveying Services in New Episodes of the Drone Surveying Reality Series Down to Earth.

For Release, June 17, 2024

Buchanan, GA- GeoCue, announces the premiere of the latest episodes of its award-winning drone surveying reality series, Down to Earth. The new episodes highlight LETEL, a leader in civil engineering, drone technology, LiDAR, and construction services, and their innovative use of TrueView LiDAR technology and LP360 software to overcome complex surveying challenges in construction services and land development.

Before starting LETEL, John Downing began his journey in the construction industry digging ditches and getting his boots muddy. Determined to rise above, John embraced cutting-edge technology and invested in drones, a decision that transformed his career and led to the creation of LETEL.

Now, with over 20 years of experience, John has grown LETELinto a powerhouse in the construction and development industry. LETEL offers comprehensive services, from civil engineering to advanced drone technology, LiDAR, and construction solutions. The expert team of surveyors, engineers, LiDAR technicians, and pilots at LETEL can handle any project, big or small.

In these latest episodes of Down to Earth, watch as the LETELteam takes on a challenging 400-acre site with thick vegetation, steep elevation changes, and dense Georgia Pines. See how they use TrueView LiDAR technology to efficiently gather crucial data and quickly calculate volumetrics for their top client, Magnum Construction. All while the team skillfully navigates steep cliffs and steers clear of hazardous construction equipment, demonstrating the remarkable efficiency and precision of TrueView drone LiDAR.

See how the LETEL team leverages their Aerial Advantage on Down to Earth. Watch now!

“Down to Earth” is a documentary-style reality series that shows how real surveyors collect data and turn it into real deliverables, despite challenging conditions, hidden dangers, and inclement weather.

In the first episode, John and the LETEL team tackle a daunting 400-acre North Paulding site in Georgia, with significant elevation changes and dense pine forests. Using advanced TrueView LiDAR technology, they demonstrate how drone surveying can be completed in hours which would take traditional surveyors’ days or even months. Watch as they meticulously plan and execute their mission and coordinate their efforts seamlessly to deliver precise, high-quality data.

“The North Paulding Track presents quite a few challenges,” explained Downing. “There’s a 300-foot elevation change across a 400-acre fully wooded area. Georgia’s dense pine forests can interfere with our signal, making this a complicated job. However, I’m confident we’ll complete it within a day.”

In the second episode, the LETEL team heads to Thompson Ridge to perform a critical dirt quantity check for Magnum Contracting. This episode showcases the incredible efficiency and accuracy of drone LiDAR technology in the construction industry. Despite the challenges posed by heavy machinery and active construction sites, the team gathers essential data swiftly and safely, enabling their clients to stay on top of project requirements and make informed decisions.

“As a customer of LETEL, we quickly realized the importance of their Drone LiDAR data,” said Brad Cox Founder and President Magnum Construction. “It has been a natural fit for our contracting and civil work, significantly enhancing our productivity and efficiency. The TrueView equipment is phenomenal, capturing incredible detail, even down to dozertrack ridges in the topos. Their verification processes give us complete confidence in the accuracy of the data.”

In the third and final episode, dive into the data processing phase with Christopher Bagley and the LETEL team as they transform raw LiDAR data into actionable insights using LP360 software. This episode highlights the meticulous steps taken to ensure accuracy and quality in their final deliverables. From classifying ground layers to creating detailed 3D models, see how the team leverages advanced tools to provide clients with unparalleled precision for new developments, even in heavily forested areas.

“We use LP360 because it’s the best tool available for ensuring accurate, reliable, high-quality data,” said Bagley. “It captures extensive details, including trees and elevation changes, and provides a comprehensive 3D view. The TrueView LiDAR performed flawlessly over the challenging terrain of the North Paulding site, giving us all the necessary data to create our deliverables.”

Posted in Press Release, Sensors, UAS | No Comments »

Requtech Announces Industry-First Ka-Band Multi-Orbit Land Mobility Terminal: RESA L Ka

Monday, June 17th, 2024

Paris, France – June 17, 2024 – Requtech AB, a leader in satellite communication technology, proudly announces the launch of the industry’s first Ka-band multi-orbit land mobility terminal, the RESA L Ka, at the Eurosatory show in Paris. The groundbreaking, highly innovative new terminal from Requtech, operates seamlessly across GEO and MEO networks and is prepared for the upcoming Ka-band LEO networks – showcasing Requtech’s relentless commitment to pioneering advancements in satellite communication. The RESA L Ka will be available in Q4 2024.

Meet Requtech at Eurosatory to learn more about the RESA L Ka
Paris Nord Villepinte exhibition centre
June 17th-21st, Paris
Hall 6, booth E119

Unmatched Innovation and Performance

The RESA L Ka terminal is engineered for optimal performance in Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and is future-ready for LEO Ka constellations.

Leveraging its successful GEO/MEO reflector system, the PICO 120a, and the proven RESA M Ku multi-orbit GEO/LEO terminal, Requtech is now cementing its position as Europe’s leading supplier of multi-orbit connectivity solutions with the addition of the RESA L Ka terminal. The company’s mission is to revolutionize communication capabilities, enhancing global connectivity with cutting-edge innovations.

Compact and Powerful

Designed with market-leading SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power) metrics of 81x45x11 cm and 25 kg, the RESA L Ka terminal delivers exceptional performance with a G/T of 13 dB/K and an EIRP of 49 dBW.

The RESA L Ka Terminal: A New Era in Satellite Communications

“At Requtech AB, our team’s dedication and expertise have been instrumental in achieving this significant milestone,” states Dr. Omid Sotoudeh, CEO. “We are leading the satellite technology revolution with our cutting-edge Multi-Orbit RESA L Ka terminal. This breakthrough product offers seamless operation across multiple constellations and orbits, positioning us as the go-to solution for next-generation satellite communications.”

The next phase for the RESA L Ka terminal includes rigorous certification processes with satellite operators. With initial pre-series production underway, the satellite communication technology provider anticipates general availability by Q1 2025.

www.requtech.com

Posted in Comms, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Biomonitoring: New Partnership Between Rheinmetall and QUS Ensures Tactical Information Superiority

Monday, June 17th, 2024

Rheinmetall has set new standards with its innovative and powerful Gladius 2.0 soldier system. With its open, modular, scalable architecture, the system is unrivalled worldwide for a user-centric soldier system solution. An up-to-date situational awareness with a consistent, stable communication infrastructure enables operational sensor-to-shooter networks. Gladius 2.0 guarantees a decisive advantage on the digital battlefield under even the most challenging of conditions.

Rheinmetall continues to improve its systems and has now entered a partnership with QUS in vital data tracking to jointly develop a solution in this area. Live tracking of vital data allows training units to be adjusted during training to ensure optimal fitness development. During operations, current information on the physical condition of individual soldiers or the entire unit is available, which is important for further tactical decisions. This is particularly crucial for soldiers in current complex operational scenarios under difficult conditions.

Modern Equipment Supports Mission Fulfillment
QUS, with its established system, already meets many requirements relevant for successful integration into soldier systems. Therefore, it can be easily integrated and significantly expands the capabilities of soldier systems.

“We are very pleased about the new partnership with Rheinmetall. Together, we will develop a system that seamlessly integrates into Rheinmetall’s battlefield management system, creating additional value in this area. Knowing and assessing the vital data of soldiers at any time is very important for performance,” says Hannes Steiner, QUS CEO & Founder.
Timo Haas, Chief Digital Officer (CDO) of Rheinmetall AG and Managing Director of Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH: “Biomonitoring, as we know it from competitive sports, will also play an important role for soldiers in the future to optimize operational readiness. For us as a system provider, QUS’s solution offers an additional component in our modular soldier system. And with a view to digitization, AI-supported data can make an important contribution to tactical decisions at higher command levels.”

The joint solution of QUS and Rheinmetall within the partnership will combine everything related to body data and fully exploit its potential. The ability to combine already proven sensors (heart rate, respiratory rate) with other external sensors (such as temperature, etc.) enables a new basis for tactical decisions based on the knowledge of the current condition of the soldiers.

The fusion of this data with tactical information represents a new dimension of information superiority regarding one’s own troops and will not only improve the performance of soldiers but also the command process.

Credo of the New Partnership: Protecting Those Who Protect Us

Hannes Steiner: “The joint solution with Rheinmetall combines the best of both worlds and primarily protects those who protect us. The vital data tracking using textile sensors integrated into the equipment offers an important additional benefit and supports the way to becoming the infantryman of the future.”

At EUROSATORY, Rheinmetall and QUS are looking forward to welcoming interested guests to their stand E115/F115 on the outdoor area of the Paris exhibition center from June 17 to 21, 2024.

Posted in International, Press Release, Tac Apps, TAK | No Comments »

Forward Controls Designs Launches Line of Handstops and Foregrips

Monday, June 17th, 2024

Forward Controls is excited to introduce our latest product line for recoil mitigation on the carbine platform: FGM (Fore Grip MLOK) and HSM (Hand Stop, MLOK). Originally, both products began as a single modular unit that could be converted into a short and mid-length foregrip. Although the design was finalized in 2019, Covid-19 related shortages and the complexity of the design delayed its launch. By 2023, due to its high cost and complexity, the modular concept was replaced with separate, standalone versions: a hand stop and a short foregrip. While the design is no longer modular, this change also eliminated the high manufacturing costs.

For simplicity, consider the FGM as an extended version of the HSM. Both are designed to be wider than the MLOK handguard’s mounting base width of 0.75″. Notably, they both overhang on both sides, which is intentional. This wider design, measuring 1.25″, offers more surface area and contact, improving traction with the user’s hand. Both are angled at 10 degrees with a flare at the bottom. They have flutes on the sides, designed as resting places for the user’s fingertips. This feature is less effective on the HSM due to its shortness, but it is much more useful on the FGM. The six-sided serrations effectively provide traction, adding friction and allowing ther shooter to more effectively apply reward pressure when controlling recoil.

The design discourages the user from holding it like a broomstick. Instead, it promotes cradling the handguard with the web between the thumb and index finger on the handguard, with the rest of the hand naturally extending at an angle. Both FGM and HSM are reversible, suiting the user’s preference, and function equally well in either direction.

FGM & HSM are both made from a solid block of 6061, hard coat anodized in black, FDE, or ODG

A 1/8 Allen key is required for MLOK hardware installation (not included)

Torque value: 35 in lb (max) for aluminum handguards, 15 in lb (max) for polymer handguards

FGM & HSM are both proudly designed and made in the USA

FGM: www.forwardcontrolsdesign.com/fgm-fore-grip-mlok

HSM: www.forwardcontrolsdesign.com/hsm-hand-stop-mlok

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Forward Controls Designs Launches Line of Handstops and Foregrips

The High Speed Gear GEN 2 TACO Line Recommended by NTOA

Monday, June 17th, 2024

Swansboro, NC – June 17th, 2024 – High Speed Gear®, theleading manufacturer of tactical gear and accessories, is proud to announce that their new GEN 2 TACO® product line has been tested and recommended by the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA). This significant endorsement underscores the exceptional quality, durability, and functionality of High Speed Gear’s products, reinforcing their commitment to providing top-tier gear for law enforcement and tactical professionals.

The NTOA, known for its rigorous testing and evaluation process, awarded the entire GEN 2 TACO line high marks for its innovative design and reliable performance. The NTOA rating scale goes up to 5.00 and all of High Speed Gear’s GEN 2 TACOs received high ratings.

This latest iteration of the TACO, known as the GEN 2, features enhanced materials and construction techniques that ensure superior retention and ease of access for magazines and other tactical essentials. A fun-favorite feature called “Mini MOLLE”which offers half-inched spacing allows users to mount their GEN 2 TACOs to anything from belts to plate carriers with a more secure fit.

These products and their scores include:

• The GEN 2 Pistol TACO – 4.58

• The GEN 2 Rifle TACO – 4.43

• The GEN 2 X2R TACO – 4.38

• The GEN 2 Double Decker TACO – 4.48

• The GEN 2 Handcuff TACO – 4.28

• The GEN 2 Double Pistol TACO – 4.53

• The GEN 2 Extended Pistol TACO – 4.32

High Speed Gear has a longstanding reputation for producing high-quality tactical gear trusted by military professionals, law enforcement authorities, and responsibly armed citizens. The NTOA approval further solidifies the company’s position as an industry leader and affirms the GEN 2 TACO® line as an essential tool for tactical professionals.

For more information about High Speed Gear® and the GEN 2 TACO® line, please visit www.highspeedgear.com/tacos/gen-2-tacos or contact the HSG sales team at sales@highspeedgear.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, NTOA, Press Release | No Comments »

Army Renames Air Defense System After Vietnam War Medal of Honor Recipient

Monday, June 17th, 2024

WASHINGTON — The Army renamed the Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense system for Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. Mitchell W. Stout during an Army birthday festival today at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

Stout, an artilleryman with the 1st Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, was killed during the Vietnam War protecting fellow Soldiers. He grabbed a grenade thrown into their bunker and ran for the exit. As he reached the door the grenade exploded, but by holding it close to his body, he was able to shield the other Soldiers from the blast.

“Naming this game-changing air defense capability after Sgt. Stout was appropriate and well-deserved, given his heroic efforts to protect fellow Soldiers from danger,” said Doug Bush, assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics, and technology. “The M-SHORAD was designed to do the same against a variety of airborne threats.”

The system uses a mix of guns, missiles, and onboard sensors attached to a Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicle to defend against unmanned aircraft systems, rotary wing, and fixed-wing aircraft.

Soldiers with the 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Regiment were the first to receive and test four of the increment one defense systems. They successfully conducted live-fire tests at the Putlos Bundeswehr range on the Baltic Sea coast of Germany in 2021 and became fully equipped with the systems in 2023.

The Army plans to field 144 air defense systems to four battalions by fiscal year 2025 with an additional 18 systems for training, operational spares and testing.

Incremental upgrades to the system will feature enhanced effects including directed energy, and improved missiles and ammunition. The Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office completed the delivery of four directed energy systems to the 4th Battalion, 60th Air Defense Artillery Regiment last fall.

“The M-SHORAD family of systems adds commensurate mobility or survivability to maneuvering forces and joint maneuvering forces through protection against enemy air threats,” Bush added. “Its flexibility and versatility provide a best value for the nation and increases Soldier capabilities through performance and training capabilities.”

The M-SHORAD will now be named the SGT STOUT

Sgt. Mitchell W. Stout, from Loudon, Tennessee, joined the Army in August 1967 at 17 years old after dropping out of high school. He completed paratrooper school before the Army realized he was too young when he joined and discharged him.

By that time, he already turned 18. He went to a recruiter’s office the very next day and signed up again, this time as an artilleryman.

“He wanted to be where he was needed,” said his sister, Susan Tyler. “That’s the way we grew up. If your country needs you, you do what you can and volunteer.”

Stout completed a tour in Vietnam and returned home in 1969. After speaking with friends and family, he volunteered to return to Vietnam to help the young Soldiers still fighting.

“I think he had a calling, I really do,” Tyler said. “I think he knew somehow in his heart that if he went back, he could help someone in some way.”

A few weeks after returning to Vietnam, on March 12, 1970, a North Vietnamese company attacked his unit’s firing position at the Khe Gio Bridge. Stout and a crew of Soldiers went into a bunker as they came under heavy mortar fire.

When the firing stopped, the enemy threw a grenade into the bunker, prompting Stout to act and save the lives of his fellow Soldiers.

“He cared about those Soldiers that put their boots on every day, who shine their brass and do their best,” Tyler said. “And that’s what he died for, he died for them.”

Stout was posthumously presented with the Medal of Honor on July 17, 1974. He is the only Army air defense artilleryman to earn the award.

By Christopher Hurd, Army News Service

Posted in Army, Guest Post, History, weapons | 4 Comments »

AG Composites Launches “Name That Camo” Contest

Sunday, June 16th, 2024

OWENS CROSS ROADS, Ala. (June 14, 2024) — AG Composites, a veteran-owned manufacturer of premium carbon fiber and fiberglass rifle stocks, is thrilled to announce the launch of their exciting new contest, “Name that Camo.” From June 17-30, customers will have the opportunity to name the latest camo pattern in the AG Composite lineup. The lucky winner will receive a non-adjustable fiberglass rifle stock, while runners-ups will receive fantastic swag bags filled with hats, t-shirts, and stickers.

The newly unveiled camo pattern showcases a sleek black base adorned with meticulously hand-painted shades of light tan, brown, and green. This captivating design will be available in AG Composites’ renowned fiberglass stock line. Matt Tandy, the owner of AG Composites, expressed the company’s commitment to involving their valued customers in the naming process, stating, “Allowing our customers to participate in naming one of our new camo patterns is important to us. We always want input from them and want them to know how important they are to all of us here at AG Composites.”

Participating in the “Name that Camo” contest is a breeze. Simply visit the AG Composites website and click on the “Name that Camo” Contest to enter your submission. Each person is allowed one entry, and the contest is open to U.S. residents only. All submissions must be received by June 30, 2024, at 5 PM CST. The AG Composites leadership team will select the lucky winner(s) based solely on the camo name submitted. Winners will be promptly notified via email or phone. In the event of no response within 7 days, the winner forfeits their prize.

The grand prize, a non-FFL item, is a remarkable non-adjustable fiberglass rifle stock. With a suggested retail value exceeding $400, this prize is truly extraordinary. The fiberglass stock will come with the inlet and finish options listed on the AG Composites website. For those seeking additional customization, such as texture, rails, QD cups, and more, these options are available at regular retail pricing.

AG Composites encourages participants to unleash their creativity and “Name that Camo.” By doing so, they could become the fortunate winner and bask in the glory of naming a camo pattern for the leading custom stock manufacturer. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to leave your mark on the industry.

For more information and to enter the contest, please visit the AG Composites website. Follow AG Composites on social media for updates and announcements regarding the “Name that Camo” contest.

Posted in Camo, Contest, Press Release | 1 Comment »

NEXTORCH Introduces New X-Carry Flashlight Holsters

Sunday, June 16th, 2024

Cleveland, TN – (June 11th, 2024) – NEXTORCH Industries, a global leader in manufacturing advanced illumination tools, batons, and other specialized equipment for law enforcement, first responders, tactical professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts, proudly announces the launch of their New X-Carry Flashlight Holsters.

The V55 and V55L X-Carry NQD Holster Systems represent the pinnacle of tactical efficiency. These innovative holsters utilize a minimalistic design optimized for weight and practicality. They feature the NEXTORCH Quick Draw System (NQD) ensuring quick and easy access in any situation. The tool-free adjustable V55 X Carry holsters provide a secure fit for a variety of flashlights. Available in 2 sizes, the V55 fits flashlights with a 21-31 mm head diameter and a 19-23 mm body diameter. The V55L accommodates 27-39 mm head diameter 24-28 mm body diameter. Both offer 360-degree rotation with the ability to lock position. With its adjustability to fit a variety of duty and civilian belt widths and cross compatibility with MOLLE systems, this holster is ideal for seamless transitions between various mounting locations, enhancing the user’s experience. Suitable for belt widths between1.5 to 2 inches. Retail $19.99

The V35 X-Carry Flashlight Holster, is one of the flagship designs of NEXTORCH’s Quick-Draw (NQD) Flashlight Holsters. Designed for efficiency and reliability, the V35 utilizes the quick draw mechanism, a bottom that allows light to pass through, and 360-degree rotation to ensure your flashlight is accessible and operational at a moment’s notice. V35 has the adjustability to fit a variety of duty and civilian belt widths. Suitable for belt widths between 1.5 to 2 inches. Combine that with its cross compatibility with MOLLE systems, and this holster is ideal for seamless transitions between various mounting locations, enhancing its modularity. The V35 holster’s construction features a new design that allowed a weight reduction of over 24% compared to earlier models. The V35 is designed specifically for the TA30C and TA20 flashlights with the FR-1 Finger Ring. Retail $19.99

NEXTORCH works with many of the industry’s most knowledgeable experts in the lighting and low-light operations fields. They not only strive to craft the most functional products but also to share the expertise they’ve amassed over the years. As a founding member of the Portable Lights American Trade Organization (PLATO), NEXTORCH stands as a global R&D powerhouse and leading manufacturer of tactical flashlights. For information on becoming a NEXTORCH dealer and adding these innovative, industry-leading products to your sales portfolio, please email info@nextorch.com.

To learn more about the complete product offerings from NEXTORCH, please visit: www.nextorch.com

Posted in Holsters, Lights, Press Release | No Comments »