SureFire

Archive for August, 2024

Kopin Partners with Wilcox Industries for Modular Dismounted Soldier System

Thursday, August 8th, 2024

Provides Integrated Day and Night Heads up Display Optical Solutions

WESTBOROUGH, Mass.–Kopin Corporation (NASDAQ: KOPN), a trailblazer in application-specific optical solutions and high-performance micro-displays for defense, enterprise, consumer, and medical products, is thrilled to announce its collaboration with Wilcox Industries on the cutting-edge FUSION CLAW™ head borne information system.

The FUSION CLAW is set to revolutionize the battlefield with its advanced modular technology platform, seamlessly integrating night vision, communications equipment, Identification Friend-Foe (IFF), AI-informed power prioritization, multi-spectral forward illumination, mission recording, and Day/Night Heads-Up Display (HUD) into a single, lightweight package. The system’s design ethos—modularity, scalability, adaptability, and power management—ensures that operators can remain laser-focused on their missions. Kopin’s pivotal role involves the development and production of look-through mixed reality accessories, which we believe significantly enhance warfighter situational awareness with state-of-the-art Day and Night HUDs.

These new accessories will work with legacy fielded systems and as the demand for sophisticated Day and Night Visual Augmentation Solutions (VAS) skyrockets with over 70,000 systems already fielded and 100 commercial licensees integrating with the Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK)(1) , the FUSION CLAW system stands at the forefront of technological innovation. Warfighters can now access a wide array of information directly through a seamless heads-up display, eliminating the need for the user to look down at a chest-mounted End User Device (EUD).

“ATAK system users and future AR initiatives need the capability to view critical information in all ambient lighting conditions, from intense daylight to total darkness,” said Nic Peterson, Kopin’s Director of Business Development for Warfighter Vision. “We believe our power-efficient, high-performance microdisplays combined with innovative near-eye optics enable Kopin’s HUD products (designed and built in USA) to meet the complete operational needs of the warfighter and augments their current ATAK system, today. We are delighted to expand our customer base with esteemed partners like Wilcox, renowned for their outstanding contributions to the armed services.”

We believe with the FUSION CLAW system, Kopin and Wilcox Industries are poised to deliver unmatched situational awareness and mission success, ushering in a new era of battlefield innovation and significant revenue potential. James Teetzel, CEO of Wilcox Industries, stated, “The teaming of Kopin & Wilcox presents a unique partnership that is well poised to meet the development and production demands of the customer. The proliferation of this requirement for a headborne modular technology platform, with integrated VAS components, has amplified the necessity for such a business partnership, and we could not be more excited.” For this partnership, Wilcox brings a myriad of technical expertise related to the development of headborne mounting solutions and electro-optics, in addition to years of experience facilitating urgent and unique contract requirements for the US DoD and broader international defense market. As an industry leader in this space, Kopin brings vast industry knowledge and experience with micro-displays and optical solutions. Together, we believe the Wilcox & Kopin team will not only be able to meet customer requirements but will also facilitate increased technological development. James Teetzel further stated, “Wilcox has always listened to our customers, as it is their collective guidance that has allowed Wilcox to design, develop, and offer industry leading technology for over 40 years. The forming of this partnership is no different, as Wilcox looks to work jointly with Kopin in providing the best-in-class solutions in line with specific end-user requirements. We are honored and privileged to work closely with Kopin to jointly develop, produce, and provide meaningful equipment in support of the Modular Dismount Soldier System requirements.”

Development Ecosystem Lays Foundation for Delivering Combat-Effective, Agile, Adaptive Airpower at Scale

Thursday, August 8th, 2024

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas (AFNS) —

Any future fight against a near-peer adversary will demand the U.S. Air Force deliver combat-effective, agile and adaptive airpower at scale. This will require Airmen who can make quality decisions at the speed necessary for competition and combat timelines, and developing future leaders who can do the same.

In line with Department of the Air Force’s efforts to reoptimize for Great Power Competition, leaders at Air Education and Training Command are following through on upgrading the service’s development ecosystem with a goal of providing digital-age training and education in alignment with the evolving needs of the warfighter.

“Reimagining our current approach to training and educating Airmen for GPC holds the potential for transformative change across multiple dimensions,” said Dr. Wendy Walsh, AETC chief learning officer. “The advantages of this approach include the focused ability to rapidly recruit, train and educate Airmen with the competencies required to meet the evolving demands of joint force commanders in the GPC landscape in line with the Air Force Future Operating Concept.”

So, what exactly is the development ecosystem?

“If you’re looking at the set of tools that an Airman will interact with over the course of their Air Force careers, the development ecosystem spans the entirety of training and education experiences they encounter from accession to retirement,” Walsh said. “This includes the instruction they receive at basic military training, at technical training or at undergraduate flying training, and onward to their experience during professional military education courses and in their units in the operational commands.”

According to Walsh, the development ecosystem does not stop after initial basic military, technical training or undergraduate flying training; rather it is a competency-based, human-centered learning continuum that is informed and driven by a myriad of learning data and records, orientating the force to measurable, mission-focused outcomes.

“Once Airmen go out to their operational wings, the question is how will we continue to develop them in both their foundational and occupational competencies so they can do their job better, making them more effective Airmen, teammates and eventually leaders,” Walsh said. “Building competency integration and learning design establishes a learner-centric model anchored to mission-command and the strategic context of GPC and is divorced from the industrial age ‘pipelines’ or ‘training conveyor belts’ of the past.”

Rapidly codifying competencies required for GPC has been a top priority in the command.

“Currently, over half of the Air Force’s career fields are implementing competency-based training plans with a goal to have all career fields complete by summer of 2025,” said Col. Sandra Coble who leads headquarters AETC’s competencies division. “We’re moving fast to accomplish this training transformation knowing exactly how important this is to Air Force readiness.”

Competencies also provide a framework by which the Force Development enterprise can organize, categorize and pursue data sources necessary for data-driven insights to help units assess overall readiness for specific missions.

“Striking a balance between talent management and operational needs is a complex challenge, but the integration of talent management processes with force development offers the opportunity for more efficient resource allocation,” said Col. Jason Turner, AETC’s deputy director for force development. “This alignment ensures that AETC produces Airmen with the right competencies at the right time, for the right place, enhancing overall readiness and effectiveness.”

A major step in aligning talent management and operational needs is underway with the on-going development of the DAF Learning Record.

“Think of the DAFLR as a dynamic transcript of your learning and competencies, representing an individual digital portfolio consolidating learning-specific information for total force Airmen and Guardians from 32 authoritative data sources,” Turner said. “The intent is to provide a one-stop, near-real-time, validated record of an individual’s education, training and experience across a learner’s career.”

DAFLR includes 32 authoritative data sources, such as MyLearning, MyVector, the Military Personnel Data System, the Defense Civilian Personnel Data System, the Education and Training Management System and more.

“Commanders, their staffs and every Airman and Guardian will have access to near-real-time learning information guiding force-development decisions, including decisions that will impact operational readiness in support of agile combat employment,” Turner said. “DAFLR will enhance lethality through knowledge of what military and civilian personnel know and can do, assisting commanders in developing the right Airmen and Guardians at the right time for the right mission.”

The two-way partnership between AETC and operational commands, will be a critical factor in overall force development.

“[AETC] is providing a service that spreads across the entire DAF,” Turner said. “It is the matching between the development that a person receives while they are in AETC with where the mission needs are when they are sent out to their operational units. This requires a feedback loop where the operational commands can request training, and then receive that training and not have to wait to send that person back to a formal schoolhouse. Being able to upskill in real time to meet the needs of the warfighter at the point of need.”

To illustrate the point of what a successful future development ecosystem looks like, Turner gave the example of a team at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, developing a new training method demonstrating how to refuel a B-52 Stratofortress in an austere environment. To rapidly share that information across the enterprise, that new training module can rapidly be taken back to the aircraft’s home station at Barksdale AFB, Louisiana, and be implemented there in real-time to match operational need during a conflict.

“Our current ecosystem has pockets of excellence everywhere, with great leaders doing innovative things,” Walsh said. “Our future success means getting our learning ecosystem to effectively connect across institutional and operational commands, to identify and train with a competency-based approach, to share best practices and collaborate on how to incorporate digital age technology into development, and to adapt learning opportunities when and where needed for mission readiness.”

By Dan Hawkins, Air Education Training Command Public Affairs

Valiant Shield Military Exercise Brings Cloud Networking to the Pacific

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

Company’s mobile ad hoc network (MANET) enabled geographically dispersed U.S. military commanders to move small, agile operational centers across the INDOPACOM region while maintaining contact with aircraft, ships, and ground forces during exercise.

Persistent Systems, LLC (“Persistent”), a leader in mobile ad hoc networking, announced today that its communications solutions successfully supported Valiant Shield, a biennial joint Field Training Exercise conducted by the U.S. military in Guam and across the INDOPACOM Area of Responsibility (AOR).

During the 11-day exercise, Persistent Systems Wave Relay® MANET and Cloud Relay™ networking capabilities enabled U.S. commanders operating from forward-deployed and fixed operations centers to test the Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept through the MANET-Cloud High Mobility Radio (MCHMR) as well as conduct a run-through of the Joint Fires Network, a prototype battle management system.

“U.S. forces in the INDOPACOM AOR are under constant alert from threats marshaled by near-peer powers in the region,” said Adrien Robenhymer, Persistent’s VP of Business Development, Air Force and Intelligent Community, “The U.S. must be prepared to counter by operating in a nimble, distributed fashion with a swift kill chain.”

Utilizing MCHMR’s MPU5-based MANET and cloud services facilitated by Persistent’s Cloud Relay™ network, Valiant Shield commanders at both fixed and deployable operations centers, as well as individual units at the edge, were able to track bombers and fighter jets in the air, personnel on the ground, and ships at sea.

“During the exercise, airmen and Marines were using our MANET technology to demonstrate the viability of the ACE concept,” Robenhymer said. “Commanders were rapidly establishing operations in Hawaii, Guam, and the First Island Chain, all while maintaining communication and tracking of their forces. We also showcased our ability to reduce the Joint Fires Network response time from minutes to seconds.”

Persistent’s involvement with Valiant Shield, say company officials, is yet another example of how it is leading the way in delivering a Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) capability today.

“The network is the key to enabling JADC2,” said Robenhymer. “By delivering a rapidly deployable, scalable network providing both connectivity at the tactical edge and strategic reach back; decision-makers are finally united with the sensors and effectors. MCHMR has turned the JADC2 vision into a reality, and we just demonstrated it across the Pacific.”

www.persistentsystems.com

ONE9 Welcomes Davin Michaelis as Senior Technical & Tactical Advisor

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

If “Innovation is a Special Operation”, ONE9’s team just got a whole lot stronger.
ONE9 is thrilled to announce the appointment of Davin Michaelis as Senior Technical and Tactical Advisor. Michaelis, a recently retired US Special Mission Unit (SMU) Sergeant Major, brings unparalleled expertise and experience to the team.

Throughout Michaelis’ twenty-one deployments, he distinguished himself at the highest level of strategic military operations including leadership roles in three presidentially approved operations. Known for his exceptional leadership, strategic acumen, and operational excellence he has demonstrated his prowess in some of the most challenging environments and operations globally. His deep and extensive experience in national security, intelligence, and special operations sets him apart as a leader of the highest pedigree.

In his new role at ONE9, Michaelis will be based in Warsaw, Poland. He will provide a unique and invaluable lens to target, validate, and provide deep tactical and technical diligence to help guide ONE9’s investment and innovation priorities. His strategic vision and tactical expertise will be instrumental in advancing ONE9’s initiatives and ensuring the highest standards of performance and innovation.

“I’ve been tracking ONE9 for a while now, and am proud to join a firm who contributes as much to national security in their private sector capability as we did when we were in uniform,” Michalis said.

“Davin is no joke, and I am deeply humbled to have gained the trust of a leader with Davin’s character, curiosity and mission focus,” said Glenn Cowan, Founder and Managing Partner of ONE9. “As ONE9 expands our presence globally, it is critical to align with our most important allies”. Cowan went on to say, “At ONE9 we equate venture capital to a special operations mission and since our former Units fought together, it’s a natural fit to expand our shared vision and culture to build one of the most impactful investment and innovation firms focused on national security.” His unparalleled experience and leadership will be a tremendous asset as we continue to drive forward our mission and expand our capabilities.”

Galvion Recharges USMC with the Receipt of Multiple Power and Data Product Orders

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of integrated power and data management solutions and innovative head protection systems, has received a number of orders from the United States Marine Corps (USMC) for its Nerv Centr® power and data products. Galvion has recently received an order for 5000 SoloPack™ II lithium-ion rechargeable batteries and a USD $1.5M order for additional ancillary cables to further support the USMC’s in-service Portable Power Scavenger Systems (P2S2).

The SoloPack™ II batteries ordered will support the USMC’s Fire support and coordination systems using portable, handheld devices to employ supporting arms in consonance with maneuver elements used by Marines. Galvion’s original 98Wh SoloPack™ batteries were included in kits when fielded in 2018. This new order for 5000 SoloPack™ II will provide more power to better sustain these critical systems. Small, lightweight and energy-dense, the SoloPack II offers 140Wh of energy (40% more power storage capacity than the original SoloPack), while maintaining the familiar, compact form factor users expect from the Nerv Centr® suite of products. SoloPack II fits into a magazine pouch for ease of storage and weighs only 1.65lbs (750 grams).

In December 2022, Galvion announced an order valued at USD $11 million to supply a customized Squad Power Manager™ (SPM) kit to each Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) within the Marine Corps, including Reserve Forces. The USMC’s Portable Power Scavenger System (P2S2) kits include Galvion’s SPM and a selection of cables, connectors and accessories that provide the ability to scavenge, distribute, and manage power from multiple power sources including solar, Alternating Current (AC), Direct Current (DC), military batteries, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) plugs, and vehicle cigarette lighter/alternator attachments. The SPM kit can scavenge power from partially discharged batteries, vehicles, and standard electrical outlets and convert that power into a usable format for powering devices and recharging batteries. The recent order received for additional ancillary cables will extend and further enhance the functionality of the USMC’s in-service P2S2 kits.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion said: “The United States Marines are some of the world’s toughest warfighters, and we’re incredibly proud to supply them with equipment that supports their missions.

The power supply and management solutions that we provide contribute to a reduction in physical and logistical burden by sustaining power for longer with less weight.” He continued: “The fact that these orders extend and enhance capabilities that Galvion has already supplied to Marines is an example of our commitment to responding to the ever-changing needs of our customers. We’re seeing a number of repeat orders from partners across the globe, which means we’re doing something right; this latest round of orders from the USMC is a proud moment for our whole team.”

Armaments Research Company Kicks Off Effort to Revolutionize Small Unit Resupply with Army DEVCOM

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

Highlight:

• ARC artificial intelligence-enabled weapon sensors support efforts within Contested Logistics to explore novel methods for resupplying tactical units.

Washington, D.C. – August 5th, 2024 – Armaments Research Company (ARC) is transforming small unit resupply operations in collaboration with Army DEVCOM. This initiative addresses the longstanding challenge of efficiently maintaining combat units supplied at the front line. By leveraging innovative AI-enabled sensors and warfighter feedback, ARC’s solution automates the ammunition aspect of the standard ACE report for infantry units.

“ARC’s vision for the capability is drone delivered speedballs (ammunition and water) and providing commander’s at every echelon with novel solutions to the centuries old problem of keeping combat units supplied at the front.” – Kyle Rice, ARC CTO.

Black Crest Launches Revolutionary Men’s Masculine Athleisure Apparel Line

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

Dallas, Texas – Black Crest Apparel, pioneering brand in men’s athleisure wear, proudly announces the launch of its website, www.blackcrest.com. This innovative platform showcases Black Crest’s cutting-edge line of masculine athleisure apparel, combining style, comfort, and performance for the modern man.

Black Crest, is more than just a lifestyle brand; it’s aim to is to be champions of a culture that celebrates the essence of modern masculinity. Rooted in the belief that being a man is about strength, honor, and integrity, we embrace a heritage where authenticity and self-reliance reign supreme. BC’s ethos embodies the timeless virtues of resilience, determination, and camaraderie, fostering a community for those men focused on getting the job done rather than jumping on the latest fad. From our carefully crafted designs to our commitment to quality, Black Crest stands as a beacon for those who embrace the essence of what it means to be a man in today’s world.

Black Crest is committed to redefining the boundaries of men’s apparel by merging athletic functionality with contemporary design. The brand’s new collection features a range of versatile pieces, from sleek joggers and performance shorts to stylish hoodies and athletic t-shirts, all crafted with premium materials to ensure durability and comfort. There are some familiar industry faces at Black Crest Apparel as some of the team from FirstSpear are behind the scenes and offering expertise on its development.

“Black Crest Apparel stands firmly behind masculine values, providing a refreshing contrast to companies that align profits with extreme political agendas. Our customers can confidently support a brand that mirrors their own principles and values,” added Scott Carver, Black Crest Board Member and FirstSpear CEO. “Taking tenets from FirstSpear’s reputation for innovation and quality, we’ve crafted a versatile and easy-to-style product line you can depend on, whether you are training, attending a board meeting, or on a date.”

“Black Crest Apparel offers simple, yet sophisticated, high-quality athleisure products for men searching for a brand that reflects their own principles and values,” said Carver.

Black Crest has launched it iD.me program that allows military, law enforcement and first responders industry discounts. Simply login your credentials at checkout, or create an account and you will be prompted to login.

For more information about Black Crest and to shop the new collection, visit www.blackcrest.com.

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Instagram: @BlackCrestApparel

Facebook: Black Crest Apparel

LinkedIn: Black Crest Apparel

AFSOC Demonstrates ACE with Historic Highway Landing

Wednesday, August 7th, 2024

BONO, Ark. —  

In a historic first, Air Force Special Operations Command successfully landed an AC-130J Ghostrider Gunship on Highway 63 in Bono, Arkansas, on August 4, 2024. This operation was part of a broader exercise, Emerald Warrior Field Training Exercise II, designed to showcase AFSOC’s Agile Combat Employment capabilities.

The exercise provided an opportunity for participating units to refine their skills and advance ongoing pathfinding and experimentation efforts within AFSOC.

“This exercise serves as a significant milestone for AFSOC, demonstrating our ability to operate in diverse and austere environments,” said Tech. Sgt. Robert Gallagher, lead planner for the highway landings, assigned to the AFSOC Air Commando Development Center. “By leveraging ACE concepts, we enhance our operational flexibility and resilience.”

Throughout the morning, Special Tactics Airmen from the 1st Special Operations Wing established and secured a landing zone on the highway.

Shortly after, a C-146A Wolfhound and an MC-130J Commando II from the 492nd Special Operations Wing landed on the five-lane highway.

The MC-130J crew then set up a Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP), as the AC-130J assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, Florida, made its approach, landed, refueled, rearmed and took off again.

The primary objective of this exercise was to validate AFSOC’s capability to operate in austere environments with minimal infrastructure. Key tasks included securing the landing zone and performing FARP operations, both critical elements of the ACE framework.

“Emerald Warrior FTX II demonstrates to our adversaries that we can meet them anytime, any place, anywhere, without the need for traditional runways to project air power,” said Col. Patrick Dierig, 1 SOW commander. “By landing an AC-130J on a highway and conducting FARP, we’re proving our ability to operate in austere and unique environments. It shows our commitment to maintain operational flexibility and readiness, ensuring we can deliver decisive airpower whenever and wherever it’s needed.”

The successful execution of this exercise underscores AFSOC’s commitment to evolving its capabilities and adapting to emerging threats. By continuing to refine and operationalize ACE concepts, AFSOC ensures it remains at the forefront of innovative and agile combat operations.

By MSgt Ryan Conroy