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Archive for July, 2024

Limited Edition B5 Systems Flecktarn Combo Kits

Monday, July 22nd, 2024

B5 Systems, a leading manufacturer of professional grade firearms accessories, released it’s in house hydro dippedproducts earlier this year with the launch of the in-line MULTICAM®, MULTICAM ® Black and Woodland dipped skus. For the remainder of July they have added limited edition Flecktarn combo kits, pairing their most popular products together. Additionally, every combo kit includes a FREE B5 Systems Flecktarn hat.

Flecktarn originated in Germany to provide concealment inwooded terrain, consisting of 5 colors in a spot (fleck) typecamouflage (tarn) pattern. While Flecktarn is still in use with the German military, it has developed a strongfollowing among American shooting and outdoor enthusiasts. B5 Systems is proud to pay tribute to an effective and timeless camouflage pattern and have partnered with Edgar Sherman Designs to make this pattern available in firearms accessories.

Combo Kits Available:

Bravo Stock / P-Grip 22

Bravo Stock / P-Grip 23

Enhanced Sopmod Stock / P-Grip 22

Enhanced Sopmod Stock / P-Grip 23

Vertical Grip M-LOK® available as an add on

Black Hills Designs – EXTRACT-R

Monday, July 22nd, 2024

Meet the BHD EXTRACT-R, a is a compact multi-tool for clearing AR15 and machine gun malfunctions in the field.

It’s a marked improvement over the OG paint can opener, with better geometry and more tools!

Features:

-castle nut wrench
-extractor hook
-lanyard hole
-hex key slot
-roll pin driver / push tool
-multiple carbon scrapers

Availiable at BLACKHILLSDESIGNS.NET

MATBOCK Monday: Aceso Plasma

Monday, July 22nd, 2024

Aceso Plasma is a subsidiary under MATBOCK. Aceso is the greek god of healing and when you see this device you will understand why the team at MATBOCK named it Aceso.

We have developed a patented technology to deliver high concentrations of dry, low-temperature Reactive Oxygen Species (aka oxygen plasma) with no harmful bi-products such as ozone or UV light. The potential therapeutic effects of Oxygen Plasma have long been known and have been widely published, but existing vendors have struggled to achieve high concentrations of plasma (efficacy) as well as low temperature and low to no harmful byproducts (safety).

Here is a brief video on how it works:

Recent independent research has validated that Aceso Cold Plasma (ACP) is uniquely effective at killing viruses and bacteria in bench and animal models and is safe to both patients and users. ACP uses a mode of action that precludes development of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic organisms.

While initially applied to hemostasis, the company has pivoted to apply the technology to the much larger wound healing (trauma, general, surgical, burn, and chronic) and non-medical decontamination markets. The domestic Total Available Markets are $700b and $200b per year, respectively.

ACP may be deployed in many form factors, including a hand-held, portable, battery-powered medical device; a closed decontamination chamber; several forms of air purifiers; and others. Some use cases within our target markets – including some aspects of decontaminating military equipment – represent business problems with no current solutions.

If you have any more questions about Aceso, please contact Zach Steinbock or Sean Matson of MATBOCK.

www.acesoplasma.com/pages/contact-us

USecAF, CMSAF Visit F.E. Warren, Emphasize Essential Role of Ground-Based Nuclear Force

Monday, July 22nd, 2024

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

Under Secretary of the Air Force Melissa Dalton, Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David Flosi, and several other senior leaders visited F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming, July 1-2.

The group was immersed with Airmen from 20th Air Force and the 90th Missile Wing to discuss nuclear modernization and better understand the vital role of the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile force.

Four-hundred ICBMs form the most responsive leg of the nation’s nuclear triad alongside bomber and submarine-launched nuclear weapons. The geographically dispersed basing of the ICBM force, in addition to the range and speed in which it can be employed, complicates potential adversaries’ decision calculus.

“The ground leg of the triad is essential,” Dalton emphasized. “Its responsiveness deters potential threats by signaling that any attack on the U.S. would be impractical, self-defeating and met with severe consequences.”

During the trip, all leaders agreed that while the current weapon system is reliable for now, the Air Force must prioritize a replacement to ensure effectiveness and credibility well into the future.

“Our Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles are the most responsive leg of our nation’s nuclear triad. It requires sustained and fully funded investments,” Flosi added. “Without these resources, we risk leaving ourselves vulnerable to 21st century threats. We must continue to prioritize these investments in order to ensure our military remains the best in the world.”

The Air Force’s fleet of ICBMs have remained on around-the-clock alert since 1959 with the last major recapitalization occurring in the 1980s. The current Minuteman III missiles and 450 launch facilities are set to be replaced by the increasingly accurate, secure and reliable Sentinel program.

While the Sentinel program is one of the largest and most complex programs the Air Force has ever undertaken, it will drastically improve the overall effectiveness of the nuclear triad to counter current and future strategic risks.

“Modernizing the ground-based deterrent while sustaining the Minuteman III system is a challenge that demands significant, responsible investment and a holistic approach,” Dalton noted. “In the face of the nuclear modernization by our competitors, it’s imperative to modernize our own force to underwrite our nation’s defense and uphold our extended deterrence commitments to our allies.”

After a mission brief at 20th Air Force headquarters, the group was hosted at Missile Alert Facility A-01 by missileers, defenders and a myriad of Airmen who perform other critical support functions.

First Lts. Connor Tovey and Sydney Kongquee, 319th Missile Squadron missileers, talked through a day in their life during a 24-hour shift. After a lengthy drive to the facility, the pair travels 60-70 feet underground into a capsule where they monitor their assigned launch facilities and wait for an order they hope never comes, though it’s an order they’re determined to execute if necessary.

Maintaining and operating the 15 missile alert facilities and various launch facilities across F.E. Warren’s 9,600 square-mile missile field is a 24-hour, seven-days a week responsibility.

Flosi, who joined the Air Force in 1996 as a nuclear weapons specialist, is vividly familiar with the importance of the job.

“Our Airmen are critical to national security,” Flosi said. “They are on the front lines of deterrence every single day, working tirelessly to ensure our nation is protected from any threat. Dedicated and professional Airmen are what makes our Air Force the best in the world.”

Later, the group toured a launch facility, more commonly referred to as an underground missile silo. The senior leaders witnessed first-hand how a highly skilled, disciplined cadre of maintainers have kept the Minuteman III operational for more than 50 years.

Until the transition to the Sentinel program is made, the Air Force will continue to rely on these maintainers to ensure the Minuteman III remains a reliable and effective deterrent.

“After meeting these Airmen, and learning about their creativity and innovation, I’ve never been more confident in our military’s ability to deter threats to the U.S. and our allies,” Dalton said. “We owe it our Airmen to ensure that we modernize the force.”

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

GA-ASI Flies MQ-9B With Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PT6 E-Series Engine

Sunday, July 21st, 2024

SAN DIEGO – 19 July 2024 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) flew a company-owned MQ-9B SkyGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft on July 15, 2024, with a PT6 E-Series model turboprop engine supplied by Pratt & Whitney Canada. Representatives from GA-ASI and Pratt & Whitney witnessed the first flight of the PT6 engine on MQ-9B, which lasted 44 minutes and demonstrated exemplary handling and acceleration.

PT6E-66XT Engine (Photo courtesy of Pratt & Whitney Canada)

“We’re excited to see the PT6 engine on our MQ-9B aircraft,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “We’ve worked with Pratt & Whitney for years, specifically on our jet-powered Avenger®, and we’ve enjoyed a very productive partnership. The first flight marks an important milestone for MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian® customers and missions that require additional power. In addition, customers who choose the Pratt & Whitney engine will benefit from low sustainment costs from best-in-class Time Between Overhauls, as well as 50+ maintenance and overhaul facilities around the globe.”

The PT6 E-Series is a reliable and versatile turboprop engine family that delivers key performance enhancements applicable to future MQ-9B missions. PT6 delivers a 33 percent increase in power over MQ-9B’s current engine, with a highly mature dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Controller.

MQ-9B is GA-ASI’s next generation RPA, delivering exceptionally long endurance and range, with auto takeoff and landing under SATCOM-only control, and will be able to operate in unsegregated airspace using the GA-ASI-developed Detect and Avoid system.

Deliveries of MQ-9B have begun for the United Kingdom, with contracts in place with Belgium, Canada, Taiwan, and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. The Japan Coast Guard is currently operating MQ-9B for maritime operations, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) selected MQ-9B for its Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Trial Operation Project. MQ-9B has also supported various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.

Brownells Donates $100,000 to Task Force Expedition

Sunday, July 21st, 2024

GRINNELL, IA – Task Force Expedition (TFE) is proud to announce Brownells as the Title Sponsor for TFE’s inaugural campaign to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. As a newly formed 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Task Force Expedition is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for military, first responder, and Second Amendment related nonprofits. Without Brownells generous support, the creation of Task Force Expedition would not have been possible. 

From June 27 to July 8, TFE embarked on its inaugural expedition to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. This “once in a lifetime” adventure was documented by Prelude Films and will be turned into a feature-length documentary to be released this Fall. The expedition was funded entirely by industry sponsors and each sponsor was paired with a nonprofit organization to form a team. With their Title Sponsorship, Brownells teamed up with Special Operations Wounded Warrior, also known as SOWW. Other teams included the American Suppressor Association Foundation, Frontline Healing Foundation, Special Operations Care Fund, and a nonprofit in the UK that supports members of an elite British Special Forces unit.

The adventure itself wasn’t a competition, but the five teams competed to see who could raise the most funding through public donations By the end of the year, the funds raised by Task Force Expedition will be pooled together and equally distributed among selected nonprofits.

“At Brownells, we are committed to supporting those who protect our freedoms,” said Pete Brownell, Secretary of Task Force Expedition and Chairman of Brownells. “By partnering with Task Force Expedition, we are able to contribute to a cause that aligns with our values and supports our heroes. We are honored to be part of this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive outcomes it will generate.”

Knox Williams, President of Task Force Expedition and the American Suppressor Association Foundation added, “We are incredibly grateful to Pete and the team at Brownells for their unwavering support. Simply put, their donation made the Task Force Expedition possible. We have a tremendous opportunity to make a big impact on the lives of the people that rely on the services provided by these nonprofits. I look forward to working with Pete and his team to climb both the literal and the proverbial mountain ahead as we join forces for a greater good.”

For more information about Task Force Expedition and how you can support their cause, please visit taskforceexpedition.com.

Petroleum Quality Analysis System-Enhanced | A Critical Enabler for the Army

Sunday, July 21st, 2024

The Army uses the Petroleum Quality Analysis System-Enhanced (PQAS-E) for analyzing and assessing the quality of petroleum products consumed in military operations. The system is typically deployed and operated at echelons below brigade level. It serves as a critical enabling asset for commanders at the tactical level, supporting their decision-making processes related to petroleum. The PQAS-E encompasses a range of advanced apparatuses that can detect impurities and contaminants in petroleum, ensuring only high-quality fuel is used. It also offers the capability to monitor fuel storage conditions, such as temperature and humidity, to prevent degradation and ensure optimal performance.

In 2018, the 590th Quartermaster (QM) Detachment petroleum liaison received official endorsement from the Army Petroleum Center to oversee the inspection of PQAS-E correlation testing within the 18th Airborne Corps. This endorsement granted the 590th QM Detachment the necessary authority and responsibility to conduct thorough inspections and evaluations pertaining to the PQAS-E system, its operators, and its correlation-testing activities.

The primary objective of correlation testing is to verify the results obtained by the PQAS-E and ensure their alignment with established standards. As a petroleum liaison, the 590th QM Detachment plays a critical role in facilitating effective communication and coordination between the Army Petroleum Center, U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command, U.S. Army Forces Command, and 18th Airborne Corps units. They provide technical expertise, guidance, and support to ensure accurate and efficient correlation testing of the PQAS-E.

Through many years of correlation inspections, the 590th QM Detachment has found the PQAS-E to be a critical asset for the Army. The system enhances operational readiness by ensuring military equipment receives optimal-quality fuel, thereby maximizing performance and minimizing the risk of equipment malfunctions. This leads to increased combat efficiency and mission success. The PQAS-E also reduces maintenance costs by preventing fuel-related issues that can lead to engine failures, equipment damage, and increased downtime. By eliminating the use of degraded or contaminated fuel, the PQAS-E significantly extends the lifespan of military assets, saving valuable resources.

Issues and Recommendations

The PQAS-E system, while highly advanced, faces certain apparatus issues that can impact its effectiveness. Specifically, the apparatuses that commonly experience failures are the Jet Fuel Thermal Oxidation Tester, the viscometer, the analytical balance scale, the 25kW generator, and the environmental control unit. Although the Army is currently investing in research and development efforts to improve the design and durability of apparatuses, the following recommendations may mitigate some of the common challenges with them.

Regular and proactive maintenance schedules should be established for all apparatuses in the PQAS-E. This includes routine inspection, cleaning, and calibration to identify and address any potential issues before they lead to complete failures. Additionally, implementing redundancy measures by having backup apparatuses readily available can minimize downtime and ensure continuous operation in the event of a failure. Furthermore, comprehensive training programs should be provided to operators and should include knowledge of supply functions, the ordering process, proper handling, and maintenance of the apparatuses.

To achieve the optimal system performance, there must also be engaged leaders at all echelons who can prioritize the readiness of this vital piece of equipment. This includes not only 923A Petroleum Systems Technicians, but also chains of command at the company, battalion, and brigade levels. Essential players such as supply, maintenance, and supply support activity personnel are also critical to the operational readiness rate of the PQAS-E. Key personnel must ensure inoperable equipment is documented and reported on the equipment status report. This information highlights the immediate issue at hand and demonstrates the potential risks and consequences of neglecting the system’s maintenance and repair. This increased visibility promotes a sense of accountability and drives action toward allocating necessary resources, prioritizing repairs, training, and ensuring the operational readiness of the system.

During deployment, it is crucial to have personnel who are knowledgeable about the supply chain and who can efficiently manage the inventory of spare parts and apparatuses. These personnel should be well-versed in the ordering process for replacements and repairs. Operators with a comprehensive understanding of supply functions can anticipate and plan for potential apparatus failures, ensuring non-mission-capable apparatuses are swiftly addressed and minimizing system downtime. By implementing these measures, the PQAS-E system can effectively overcome its apparatus issues and maintain its accuracy and reliability in analyzing fuel quality.

The deployment/redeployment of the system also presents a challenge related to certifications/shipping methods that should be carefully considered. One significant issue is ensuring the system is certified and compliant with transportation regulations and safety standards. This includes obtaining the necessary certifications and documentation to transport the apparatuses, fuel samples, and associated equipment safely and legally. The apparatuses and fuel samples require specialized packaging and handling to ensure their integrity and functionality upon arrival at the deployment location.

Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to delays, logistical complications, and potential legal issues. In the current operating environment, units must deploy with their PQAS-E labs. Effective planning is critical to the successful deployment of this system.

Conclusion

The PQAS-E, with its advanced apparatuses and capabilities, serves as a critical asset for the Army. By ensuring the use of high-quality fuel, the PQAS-E enhances operational readiness, reduces maintenance costs, and extends the lifespan of military assets. However, overcoming the current issues associated with the system’s apparatus is crucial for large-scale combat operations. With continuous improvement efforts and investment in research and development, the PQAS-E will continue serving as a key enabler for the Army, ensuring reliable fuel-quality analysis and supporting mission success.

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Staff Sgt. Shanice Walker is a 92F Petroleum Supply Specialist currently assigned to the 590th Quartermaster Detachment petroleum liaison at Fort Stewart, Georgia, where she serves as a petroleum surveillance NCO. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in information technology from American Military University, West Virginia, and is a graduate of the Advanced Leader Course, the Joint Petroleum Course, and the Defense Logistics Agency Energy Supply Chain Course.

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This article was published in the Summer 2024 issue of Army Sustainment.

Silvus StreamCaster MANET Radios Added to Blue UAS Framework and Green UAS Cleared Components List

Saturday, July 20th, 2024

Providing Advanced & Secure MANET Radio Capabilities to UAS Developers for use in DoD Applications

·         StreamCaster SC4200EP and StreamCaster LITE SL4200 designated by DIU as NDAA compliant and approved for use in conjunction with Blue UAS platforms

·         StreamCaster LITE SL4200 is the first MANET radio included in the Green UAS Cleared Components List  

·         StreamCaster LITE SL4200 added to the Blue UAS Framework as part of AUVSI Green UAS Certification data sharing agreement with DIU

Los Angeles, California (July 18, 2024) – Silvus Technologies, Inc. (“Silvus”), a global leader in advanced wireless networking communication systems, today announced that the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has officially added Silvus’ StreamCaster SC4200EP and StreamCaster LITE SL4200 MANET radios to the Blue UAS Framework. After undergoing the Blue UAS program’s rigorous evaluation, this certification validates their compliance with DoD standards for cybersecurity, supply chain integrity and operational reliability. Inclusion on the Blue UAS Framework further demonstrates the SC4200EP and SL4200 interoperability and NDAA compliancy, designating them as approved for use in conjunction with Blue UAS platforms. This achievement exemplifies Silvus’ commitment to delivering cutting-edge, secure, and reliable C2 and mesh networked communications solutions for unmanned systems.

Additionally, the StreamCaster LITE SL4200 achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first Mobile Ad Hoc Network (MANET) radio to be included in the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Green UAS Cleared Components list. This inclusion not only highlights the advanced performance capabilities of the SL4200 but also reinforces its status as a trusted and secure component for unmanned systems operations.

The addition of the SL4200 to the Blue UAS Framework was facilitated through the AUVSI Green UAS Certification data sharing MOU agreement with DIU. Through partnering with AUVSI, Silvus supports the Green UAS program’s goal of advancing the integration of UAS into defense applications and building a strong and secure drone industrial base.

“The first successful integration of Green UAS certified components onto the Blue UAS Framework through our MOU with DIU is a significant milestone that underscores our commitment to bolstering the commercial drone industry’s alignment with secure drone standards, enhancing both security and innovation,” said Casie Ocaña, Director, Trusted Programs at AUVSI.

StreamCaster SC4200EP is a 2×2 MIMO software-defined radio, delivering best-in-class MANET performance and connectivity at the tactical edge. With up to 10 Watts of output power (20 Watts effective performance, thanks to TX Eigen Beamforming), up to 100 Mbps data throughput and single/dual band frequency options, the SC4200EP delivers high-fidelity video, voice and IP data communications with class-leading range and performance. With multiple form-factor options including handheld, Drop-In Module and OEM module, combined with a low SWaP profile, the SC4200EP is ideal for portable or embedded unmanned applications.

StreamCaster LITE SL4200 is a 2×2 MIMO software-defined radio that provides up to 1 Watt of output power (2 Watts effective performance, thanks to TX Eigen Beamforming), up to 20 Mbps data throughput across a variety of single band frequency options. Available in a ruggedized handheld or OEM module form-factors, its ultra-low profile and flexible interface options make it ideal for integration into unmanned platforms where size, weight and power are key.

At the heart of every StreamCaster MANET radio is Silvus’ proprietary MN-MIMO waveform, that creates a self-forming and adaptive mesh network – capable of linking hundreds of nodes with unmatched range, throughput, EW resiliency and scalability.   

“We are thrilled to have our StreamCaster SC4200EP and StreamCaster LITE SL4200 MANET radios join the Blue UAS Framework, and for the SL4200 to be the first MANET radio added to the Green UAS Cleared Components List,” said Jimi Henderson, Vice President of Sales, Silvus Technologies. “Silvus continues to push the boundaries of mesh networking technology for mission critical applications. This achievement is a testament to our dedication in working across the industry to advance the capabilities of unmanned systems through robust, secure, and powerfully connected tactical communications solutions.”

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Blue UAS Framework program provides advanced capabilities to UAS developers and reduces risk for government customers, ensuring that only secure and trusted technologies are used in critical defense operations. For more information visit: www.diu.mil/blue-uas.

AUVSI’s Green UAS certification assesses and verifies that commercial drones and components meet the highest levels of cybersecurity and NDAA supply chain requirements through a security controls assessment and vulnerability and penetration testing. Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Green UAS certification data is shared directly with DIU, facilitating the inclusion of certified drone component to be added to the Blue UAS Framework. For more information visit: www.auvsi.org/green-uas.  

Learn more about the StreamCaster family of MANET radios on our website and follow us on LinkedIn.