August 2024 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for August, 2024

Savage Arms Introduces the New AXIS Rifle Line

Saturday, August 31st, 2024

WESTFIELD, Massachusetts – August 28, 2024 – Savage Arms®, an iconic firearm manufacturer, announces the next evolution of its renowned AXIS rifle line and several new models are now available. Savage set the industry standard in 2010 with the out-of-the-box accuracy of AXIS. For more than a decade, that feat and other features on the platform have not been replicated. These new rifles are an extension of the unmatched affordable accuracy of AXIS with modern features, design and an appeal to all shooters and hunters. The AXIS models listed below are now shipping.

“AXIS set the bar for affordability and accuracy in regards to rifles,” said Beth Shimanski, Director of Marketing at Savage Arms. “AXIS is built for everyone from novices to experts. We have the right rifle for anyone with options that include wood, camo, compact, left hand, multiple colors and just about every combination within that mix; all with unmatched accuracy and performance, right out of the box.”

The extended line of AXIS rifles showcases five new or updated models that cater to the diverse needs of hunters and shooters. AXIS XP, AXIS 2, AXIS 2 XP, AXIS 2 XP HARDWOOD and AXIS 2 PRO all bring something new and improved to the woods and the range.

New Lineup

The AXIS XP gets a new look with improved ergonomics and is loaded with features that are standard on every new AXIS. These rifles deliver tack-driving accuracy on every shot and include precision button-rifled barrels and thread-in head spacing. The updated bolt handle with a sleek, ergonomic design delivers on functionality. This bolt handle will help to enhance user control and comfort during operation, especially in adverse conditions like rain or cold weather. All models are available for $479.00 and come with a factory-mounted and bore-sighted 3-9×40 scope.

The AXIS 2 takes all the features of the AXIS XP and adds the user-adjustable AccuTrigger. Look for the AXIS 2 in OD Green, Gray and FDE. The AXIS 2 models carry an MSRP of $489.00

The AXIS 2 XP combines the functionality of the AXIS XP with the performance of the user-adjustable AccuTrigger in the AXIS 2. It comes standard with a factory-mounted and bore-sighted 3-9×40 scope with fully multi-coated lenses and tool-less windage and elevation adjustments. The AXIS 2 XP is available in a wide variety of calibers, the same stock color options as AXIS 2, and in compact, left-hand and compact left-hand models. The AXIS 2 XP models have an MSRP of $549.00.

The AXIS 2 XP HARDWOOD features enhanced ergonomics with its HARDWOOD stock. This model includes laser-cut stippling on the pistol grip and forend for easier handling in all conditions. The AXIS 2 XP HARDWOOD gives hunters the classic look of a walnut stock with all of the modern features of the new AXIS platform. A factory mounted and bore-sighted 3-9×40 scope with fully multi-coated lenses and tool-less windage and elevation adjustments is included. The AXIS 2 XP HARDWOOD is available for $689.00.

The final addition to the updated AXIS line, the AXIS 2 PRO, boasts all of the best features of the AXIS family. These PRO models showcase Savage camouflage patterns Woodland and Western, with Cerakote finishes to both match and outlast the elements. Add a threaded barrel and a one-piece rail, and these rifles are ready to get to the range and into the field.

Whether a shooter prefers a full-size, compact or left-hand model, Savage Arms offers a new AXIS to fit their needs. The company understands that every hunter and shooter is unique, and its rifles should reflect that individuality.

The AXIS rifle series has always been known for its reliability, accuracy and affordability. The new line-up of AXIS rifles maintains these core qualities while incorporating enhancements based on customer feedback and technological advancements. Savage Arms remains committed to providing hunters with the best tools for success in the field.

For more information about the full AXIS lineup and Savage Arms and its extensive line of leading firearms, visit savagearms.com.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Tasmanian Tiger Introduces New Long-Range Mission Backpack: TT BASE PACK 75

Saturday, August 31st, 2024

Built upon the V2 Carrying System, the new TT Base Pack 75 is a robust mission pack that can be individually configured from a volume of 75 liters up to 90 liters by adjusting the removable lid.

Knoxville, Tenn. (August 2024) – Tasmanian Tiger®, a tactical nylon line of products distributed exclusively for the US market by Proforce Equipment, Inc., is pleased to introduce a new large mission backpack: the TT BASE PACK 75. This robust, lightweight long-range backpack can be individually configured depending on the application. It features modular expansion options from a volume of 75 liters up to 90 liters by adjusting the lid. It includes a removable, height-adjustable lid with gear loops that feature an easy-access pocket on top of the lid. When used without the lid, the backpack is closed with the rolled snow guard. The roll-top snow guard, without the lid, can be used in two locking positions. The shaped head recess ensures freedom of movement when heavily loaded, and the divided main and bottom compartments allow for the separation of items in the pack.

The TT Base Pack 75 is built upon the V2 Carrying System. This system is a size-adjustable carrying system for medium to heavy loads and has a high contact point on the back panel that offers a tremendous range when adjusting the back length. The V2 Carrying System is designed for versatility and featured on Tasmanian Tiger’s backpacks where loads are likely to vary between moderate to heavy. The design of the V2 Carrying System allows for easy adjustment to maximize ergonomic benefits based on the load size.

The TT Base Pack 75 also features a height-adjustable chest belt, fixation for hiking poles or ice axes, gear loops, antenna ports into the main compartment, and MOLLE system on most attachment areas. The MOLLE loops on the front, sides, lid, and hip belt enable a wide range of additional pouches to be added. It is also hydration system compatible and features a First Aid compartment inside the lid. In addition, the TT BASE PACK 75 has side compression straps that provide compression around the perimeter of the base.

With a volume of 75 liters (expandable up to 90 liters), the TT BASE PACK 75 weighs in at 110 oz./3.12 kg. and measures 30 x 13 x 10in./77 x 33 x 26 cm. It is made from Cordura® 700 Denier and is available in Olive and Coyote for an MSRP of $449.

Click to see the Tasmanian Tiger Product digital catalog here. Find a local dealer here for any of the exciting Tasmanian Tiger products.

Stay in the conversation by following us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. All sales inquiries can be directed to tt@tasmaniantigerusa.com.

Posted in Packs, Press Release | Comments Off on Tasmanian Tiger Introduces New Long-Range Mission Backpack: TT BASE PACK 75

USAMMDA Commercial Partner Receives FDA Emergency Use Authorization for Plasma Powder

Saturday, August 31st, 2024

FORT DETRICK, Md. — A U.S. Army Medical Materiel Development Activity commercial partner received Emergency Use Authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the Department of Defense to use octaplasLG Powder — a potentially lifesaving treatment option for blood replacement therapies in certain operational circumstances. Notice of the EUA for this product was received by the company, Octapharma USA, on Aug. 8, 2024.

USAMMDA’s Warfighter Protection and Acute Care Project Management Office, which has a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement with Octapharma USA, manages research and development efforts for several blood products, including Freeze-Dried Plasma, for the DoD. The EUA for octaplasLG Powder is a significant milestone in WPAC’s development mission, which includes blood replacement therapies for emergent care use during military operations and training.

“The WPAC team played a vital role in assisting our commercial partner under the CRADA, helping them navigate the EUA approval request and process to give our Warfighters another tool in their aid bag in far-forward environments,” said Kendra Lawrence, Ph.D., WPAC’s program manager. “While the octaplasLG Powder is not intended to replace current FDA-approved blood replacement therapies during emergency treatment, it does give medical commands and frontline providers added capabilities when facing possible shortages of traditional blood plasma in austere locations across the world.”

The EUA authorizes U.S. military medical commands to begin procuring octaplasLG Powder (blood types A and AB) and allows military medical personnel and other authorized providers to administer the lifesaving therapy to treat hemorrhage or coagulopathy when no other FDA-approved treatments, like fresh frozen plasma, are available — or when the use of traditional plasma is not practical in a compressed time continuum during military operations.

Blood loss is a significant threat to U.S. service members during combat operations and training, and treating hemorrhage or coagulopathy is imperative to saving the lives of the wounded and injured until medevac to higher echelons of care is arranged. Logistical and supply lines during future conflicts may stretch hundreds or thousands of miles, possibly causing shortages of FDA-approved blood products at and near the point of injury. Therapies like octaplasLG Powder are designed to serve as a stopgap when whole blood, fresh frozen plasma, or liquid plasma are in short supply, according to U.S. Army Maj. Andrea Mountney, WPAC’s military deputy project manager.

“During combat operations, whether in the Arctic, the Indo-Pacific, or other regions of interest, we will be facing the dual challenges of time and distance due to the austerity of those operating environments,” said Mountney. “Each passing second after a Service member is wounded or injured increases the complications caused by combat trauma. The longer it takes to begin blood replacement therapy, the higher the chances of mortality.

The WPAC team provides solutions for capability gaps, working with stakeholders across the DoD, academia, and industry to develop treatments that are affordable, reliable, and expeditionary,” she added. “Our goal is to meet the needs of the customer—the Joint Service end-user who may one day need these life-saving treatments. Solutions like octaplasLG Powder go a long way to equip our medical providers with the tools needed to treat the Warfighter during future operations.”

USAMMDA develops, delivers, and fields critical drugs, vaccines, biologics, devices, and medical support equipment to protect and preserve the lives of Warfighters across the globe. USAMMDA Project Managers guide the development of medical products for the U.S. Army Medical Department, other U.S. military services, the Joint Staff, the Defense Health Agency, and the U.S. Special Forces community. The process takes promising technology from the Department of Defense, industry, and academia to U.S. Forces, from the testing required for U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval or licensing to fielding and sustainment of the finished product. USAMMDA Project Management Offices will transition to a Program Executive Office under the Defense Health Agency, Deputy Assistant Director for Acquisition and Sustainment.

No official endorsement of third parties or their products is made or inferred.

Read the FDA’s announcement

By T.T. Parish

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Medical | Comments Off on USAMMDA Commercial Partner Receives FDA Emergency Use Authorization for Plasma Powder

Artificial Intelligence in Convoy: Rheinmetall Takes First Place at ELROB 2024

Friday, August 30th, 2024

Rheinmetall has once again demonstrated its expertise in the field of artificial intelligence. It achieved a significant success in connection with the Interoperable Robotic Convoy (InterRoC) project. In the European Land Robot Trial 2024 (ELROB) competition, the Rheinmetall InterRoc team consisting of the Research & Technology division of Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH and Rheinmetall Canada Inc. won first place in the “Automated Convoy” category. The combination of HX truck and integrated PATH autonomy kit proved its worth.

The Rheinmetall PATH autonomy kit (‘PATH A-Kit’) is an AI-supported navigation system that can be installed in almost any vehicle. It has already proven itself several times in trials in various platforms, including in the Mission Master robotic vehicle family. Just last year, it was successfully used in the 2023 Estonia Unmanned Ground Systems Autonomy Trials. At ELROB 2024, the PATH A-Kit controlled two of the highly mobile HX logistics vehicles as part of the convoy scenario. Both HX vehicles were also equipped with a drive-by-wire system.

ELROB is one of the most demanding open international competitions in the field of robotics, sensor technology and autonomy. Every two years, participants from universities as well as civilian and military manufacturers compete against each other. The aim is to test the capabilities of modern robots. This year was the 12th edition. It took place from 24 to 28 June at the German Armed Forces Technical Center for Land-Based Vehicle Systems, Engineer and General Field Equipment (Wehrtechnische Dienststelle WTD 41) in Trier. 19 teams took part. Rheinmetall subsidiaries Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH and Rheinmetall Canada competed in a tactical leader-follower scenario and an actual real-life scenario.

The level of difficulty of this year’s tasks was significantly increased compared to the 2022 competition. The autonomously driving trucks and the convoy commander had to react to dynamic obstacles, alternative routes and various electromagnetic interferers, among other things. However, the system was able to solve all tasks in an exemplary manner.

The HX vehicles had to overcome eleven different obstacles on a 6 km circuit. The most difficult challenges included narrow paths, transitions between on-road and off-road driving, navigating through open and dense forests, communication interference, reversing and driving around obstacles. “The course was very challenging. The organisers did a fantastic job of making the competition a realistic military scenario and our performance shows that the Rheinmetall PATH-A kit is ready for real-world use cases,” said Paul Rocco, Managing Director of Rheinmetall Provectus. The company was acquired by Rheinmetall Canada in 2019.

The competition organisers also surprised the Rheinmetall team by bringing a car into their convoy. This forced the following truck to slow down and navigate around the moving obstacle. The convoy was also broken up, so the team had to remotely control the following truck on a parallel path and reconfigure the convoy to make the remote-controlled truck the new convoy leader. “The 2024 ELROB scenario was considerably more challenging than the scenario for the 2022 ELROB participation, for example,” commented Sebastian Elze, Rheinmetall Landsysteme Research & Technology division’s project manager responsible for the overall autonomous InterRoC system, among other things.

Despite these challenges, the team completed most of the route in convoy mode without GPS, as the terrain was overgrown with dense foliage. “This is the first time we have demonstrated this new specific capability, which is a significant upgrade for the PATH A kit,” said Luc Brunet, Director of Robotics and Autonomous Systems at Rheinmetall Provectus. “We were able to seamlessly switch between GPS-enabled and GPS-free environments without any degradation in functionality or noticeable change in operation.”

Although ELROB is a non-competitive event focussed solely on research and development, an award ceremony was held at the end of the trial. This is intended to give participants the opportunity to receive feedback and insights from the judges. This year, Rheinmetall received the prize for the best convoy performance, a first for the company and an important milestone for the PATH A-Kit.

In addition to the evaluated scenarios, the area of autonomous driving was also demonstrated to the many visitors – including generals and other military personnel from various countries, officials from the Federal Ministry of Defence, the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) and WTD41 – in the open presentation area. The vehicles in the competition, which were also on display and available for demonstration drives, were very popular with the visitors and aroused great interest

The Research & Technology division of Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH from Unterlüß took part in this event for the first time as Team InterRoC in 2022 as part of the InterRoC project in the field of automated convoys. At that time, the team took the 2nd place with an American autonomy kit provided by BAAINBw and integrated by Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH.

The InterRoC project was launched four years ago in order to derive customer requirements for future autonomous logistics vehicles. It is continuously being expanded by the BAAINBw through supplementary orders with regard to system capabilities. Among other things, it includes two military HX2 trucks equipped with autonomy kits and drive-by-wire, which follow each other in a leader-follower principle. In view of this competition, the PATH autonomy kit developed by Rheinmetall Canada Inc. was also installed in the vehicles so that participation in the competition could take place with a complete “Rheinmetall solution”.

Posted in AI / ML, International, Mobility, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Artificial Intelligence in Convoy: Rheinmetall Takes First Place at ELROB 2024

U.S. Army Selects Saab’s AT4 Solution for Individual Assault Munition Program

Friday, August 30th, 2024

The U.S. Army has awarded Saab an Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, which allows the U.S. Army to place orders for up to $494M over five years for the XM919 Individual Assault Munition (IAM) program. Saab’s solution is the AT4CS TW (Confined Space Tandem Warhead).

Order values will be established individually when an order is placed under the IDIQ contract.

Saab’s new addition to the battle-tested AT4 family combines the capability of multiple existing shoulder-launched munitions while reducing soldier load, training complexity and logistics burden.

“At Saab, we continually adapt and improve our products to meet customer needs and protect the warfighter. Our new IAM solution enhances capabilities, removes combat burdens and is uniquely created to meet the U.S. customer’s needs,” said Erik Smith, president and CEO of Saab in the U.S. “Saab has leveraged a successful, combat-proven system to make it even more effective, ultimately ensuring our solution is the best fit for the end-user.”

The AT4 is a battle-tested, successful anti-armor weapon with more than one million systems produced for 15 countries around the world. Lightweight, man-portable, and fully disposable, the AT4 has been the U.S. Army’s squad weapon since 1985. Saab has delivered more than 700,000 AT4 systems to the United States.

Editor’s note: As an addendum to this press release from Saab, I’d like to remind readers of the XM919 program which I mentioned during last year’s NDIA Future Forces Capability conference in Huntsville.

The XM919 IAM tactical munition is a disposable, lightweight, single shot, multi-target, and Fire from Enclosure (FFE) capable Shoulder Launched Munition (SLM) envisioned for use at the Squad level. It replaces the M72 LAW, M136 and M136A1 AT-4 anti-tank weapons, and M141 Bunker Defeat Munition.

Posted in Army, Contracts, Munitions, Press Release | Comments Off on U.S. Army Selects Saab’s AT4 Solution for Individual Assault Munition Program

High Speed Gear Launches the GEN 2 Large Radio TACO

Friday, August 30th, 2024

SWANSBORO, N.C. – August 29, 2024 – High Speed Gear adds to their newest line of products, the GEN 2 Large Radio TACO. As with all HSG products, it is made in the USA, Berry Compliant, and backed by a Lifetime Warranty. This innovative product represents the latest advancement in HSG’s ongoing commitment to delivering superior gear for military and law enforcement professionals.

The GEN 2 Large Radio TACO is designed to be sleeker, lighter, and more versatile than its predecessor. Weighing nearly 20% less, it offers enhanced functionality while maintaining the robust durability that High Speed Gear is known for. Key features include 1/2 inch interval MOLLE on the front and back, providing both MOLLE and belt mounting options, and allowing for the attachment of additional pouches (2 HSGI MOLLE clips included). As well as adjustable shock cord retention at the top and sides.

This large-sized Radio TACO securely accommodates U.S. military radios, including the PRC-148, PRC-152, PRC-163, and MPU5, ensuring quick and easy insertion and removal with adjustable retention for optimal security. The top retention strap, equipped with a side-release buckle, adds an extra layer of protection, keeping the radio firmly in place during the most demanding operations.

“Strong lines of communication with our active duty testers allowed us to cut through the static and create a simple, yet versatile pouch with the bandwidth to support most common military radios.,” said Daniel Chaney, Senior Designer at High Speed Gear.

Specifications:

• SKU: 24RD02XX

• Dimensions: 7.25” x 4.5” x 1”

• Weight: 3.3oz/95g/0.21lbs

A list of GEN 2 TACO variations also offered by High Speed Gear:

• GEN 2 Double Handcuff TACO

• GEN 2 Handcuff TACO

• GEN 2 Rifle TACO

• GEN 2 X2R TACO

• GEN 2 Double Decker TACO

• GEN 2 Extended Pistol TACO

• GEN 2 Pistol TACO

• GEN 2 Double Pistol TACO

GEN 2 TACO Line over the top retention accessories:

• OTR Bungee Kit

• OTR Cover

The GEN 2 Large Radio TACO is now available for purchase through authorized dealers and the High Speed Gear website. For more information about this product and other High Speed Gear offerings, visit www.highspeedgear.com/gen-2-radio-taco.

Posted in Advertiser, Comms, Load Carrying, Press Release | Comments Off on High Speed Gear Launches the GEN 2 Large Radio TACO

Nordic Combat Uniform 2.0 Solicitation Is On The Street

Friday, August 30th, 2024

The tender for the update to the Nordic Combat Uniform (NCU 2.0) has been published. Denmark, Sweden, and Norway are in, and Finland is out.

This tender is a joint procurement of the Nordic Combat Uniform (NCU) system between the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (the Purchaser), the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA).

The NCU system consists of soldier clothing beginning at the next to skin level and ends at the outermost area providing a shell cover. The different elements in conjunction with other or by themselves are designed to contribute to the soldiers’ ability to withstand the demands, threats and hazards in order to solve the tasks at hand. The NCU system consists of various items enabling the soldier to perform and survive in combat missions.

The aim of the NCU system is to provide the soldier with protection against threats to the soldier in his/her operating environments. The NCU system is meant to supplement the existing combat uniform system, including outer, mid and inner layers under the concept ‘more of the same’. The combat uniform system is for any gender soldier within any military service. The NCU system is for use in all geographical areas where the three nations are or could be engaged in military operations.

The inner and mid layers are configured in knitting material made of wool and compositions of wool. It is anticipated to be demanded as an example in the range of 500.000 to 1.000.000 pcs. yearly.

The outer layers including combat, insulation and rain layers are likewise anticipated to be demanded as an example in the range of 400.000 – 800.000 pcs. yearly.

The notice is here.

Posted in Clothing, Contracts, International | 2 Comments »