August 2024 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for August, 2024

ProTecBird Enables Successful Protection of the Red Kite Around Wind Turbines

Thursday, August 22nd, 2024

Rheinmetall supplies expertise in the field of air defence for the detection of protected bird species

With AI and sensor technology from ProTecBird and software from the military sector, Rheinmetall and ProTecBird want to ensure the protection of red kites around wind turbines and at the same time contribute to the energy transition. Both companies have now announced the successful demonstration of the effectiveness of the AVES Wind anti-collision system for the protection of red kites around wind turbines, which was developed by ProTecBird by integrating Rheinmetall technology. With this milestone, the young technology start-up from Husum, which is specialised in the development and manufacturing of economical and species-specific anti-collision systems, has now overcome a significant hurdle for the energy revolution in Germany in partnership with Rheinmetall.

The development of effective anti-collision systems (ACS) has been one of the biggest challenges in the operation of wind farms in areas with wind-sensitive bird species. The balance between technical feasibility and reliable species protection is of central importance for the planning processes in the construction of wind farms. With its AI-based AVES Wind anti-collision system, ProTecBird has succeeded in solving this problem by defining and demonstrating the requirements for an anti-collision system in terms of nature conservation, economics and technology for the first time. By doing so, the system offers an alternative to generalised shutdown regulations by providing a customised solution for wind farm-operators through species- and situation-dependent short shutdowns.

As one of the federal states with the most wind power, Schleswig-Holstein is a pioneer in the establishment of forward-looking standards for anti-collision systems and their integration into approval procedures. On behalf of the Ministry of Energy Transition, Climate Protection, Environment and Nature of the Federal State of Schleswig-Holstein (MEKUN, Ger. for Ministerium für Energiewende, Klimaschutz, Umwelt und Natur), a committee was convened in September 2022 to develop a testing framework under the direction of the State Office for the Environment SH (LfU, Ger. for Landesamtes für Umwelt). This committee, consisting of a team of consultants (TÜV NORD, the Office for Biostatistics), ACS and wind energy manufacturers as well as stakeholders from nature conservation organisations and wind energy associations, developed a comprehensive testing framework for the validation of ACS by the end of 2023. On 8 August 2024, Tobias Goldschmidt, Minister of Energy Transition, Climate Protection, Environment and Nature of the Federal State of Schleswig-Holstein, announced the first nationwide testing framework for anti-collision systems. The testing framework is currently being evaluated by other Federal States in Germany in order to incorporate it into their own area of responsibility.

The AVES Wind system from ProTecBird was tested at an existing wind farm between July and September 2023 in accordance with the requirements of the technical convention proposal “Test framework for anti-collision systems” (MEKUN 2024). A total of 237 red kite flight sequences were analysed at various sites on a total of 25 recording days: AVES Wind detects, recognises and protects the red kite in accordance with the specifications of the technical convention proposal (MEKUN 2024), meaning that the species protection requirements and the protective effect for the red kite are fully met by the ProTecBird anti-collision system.

“We are delighted to have our AVES Wind anti-collision system recognised, and are proud to be making a contribution to the energy revolution,” comments Thorsten Heinzen, CEO of ProTecBird. “The cooperation with the relevant players in Schleswig-Holstein was crucial for this breakthrough. The fact that ProTecBird was the first company to undergo and pass the officially defined testing framework highlights the company’s innovative strength and commitment. With its AVES Wind anti-collision system, ProTecBird has achieved a technological breakthrough that can be seen as disruptive for the wind energy industry,” continues Thorsten Heinzen. “We have created a clever networked system that utilises the existing wind farm infrastructure and further improves the effectiveness and sustainability of the generated wind energy”.

The solution of the AI-based AVES Wind anti-collision system is based on software developed by Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH, which was originally programmed for air defence in the military sector and is in use worldwide.

Rheinmetall uses an established software (Multi Mode Tracker) that can recognise and assign missiles via pixel changes on the horizon. Thanks to the further development of the software by ProTecBird and the use of the newly developed AI, different bird species, such as the protected red kite, can now be reliably recognised and tracked by the systems’ sensors. As a result, automated shutdown commands are sent to wind turbines, effectively preventing collisions between the animals and the rotor blades from a predefined distance between the bird and the wind turbine.

“The possible applications go far beyond the original military field,” explains Uwe Lindenau, Sales Manager Mission Systems at Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH.

“The cooperation between Rheinmetall and ProTecBird is unique worldwide. With our software and the technical expertise of ProTecBird, not only can unique protected birds such as the red kite or the white-tailed sea eagle be protected. Concerning the aviation sector, it also offers great benefits for flight safety regarding bird strikes on aircraft engines and the airframe,” Lindenau continues.

For Rheinmetall, demonstrating the effectiveness of the system in wind turbines is a successful example of the Group’s involvement in environmental protection.

As a technology start-up, ProTecBird is determined to push ahead with its research and development. The company is currently working on expanding its technology to other animal species, such as real-time detection of bats, to ensure more comprehensive protection of wildlife.

In addition, ProTecBird aims to expand its partnerships to promote the use of renewable energy not only in Germany but also worldwide.

Posted in International, Power, Press Release | Comments Off on ProTecBird Enables Successful Protection of the Red Kite Around Wind Turbines

Remington’s Logan Henry Secures Doubles Victory at the Grand American World Trapshooting Championship

Thursday, August 22nd, 2024

LONOKE, Ark. – August 21, 2024 – Remington Ammunition research and development engineer, Logan Henry, emerged victorious at the 125th Grand American World Trapshooting Championship, winning the Doubles event. The competition took place at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, Ill. from July 31-August 10, 2024.

Henry’s exceptional performance at the Championship Doubles, where he hit all 100 targets, propelled him into a shoot-off against four other top competitors. Demonstrating his unwavering skill and determination, Henry emerged triumphant, clinching the coveted title of World Champion of Doubles.

“Winning the world championship has been a dream of mine since I started shooting trap. I’ve been shooting Remington shells since the beginning, so it’s an honor to bring home a championship title representing Remington,” said Henry.

The Grand American Championship, held annually at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, Illinois, is widely regarded as the pinnacle of trap shooting competitions. Drawing participants from around the globe, the event showcases the finest shotgunning skills and fosters a spirit of camaraderie among shooting enthusiasts. Henry’s achievement not only highlights his talent but also underscores Remington’s commitment to producing top-quality ammunition that empowers shooters to excel in their respective disciplines.

As a research and development engineer at Remington Ammunition, Henry contributes to the company’s long-standing reputation as a leader in competition shotshell technology. His and Team Remington’s success on the competitive stage showcases Remington’s reputation as a trusted industry leader.

Other notable wins for Team Remington include Peter Walker winning the Champion of Champions Event in the Open Division and for the third consecutive year, Wyatt Debrie was the leading points winner for captain of the Sub Jr. Team. Debrie also won HOA and HAA awards for the category. Finally, legendary trap shooting competitor Tank Lunsford won the HOA and HAA in the Veteran category for both the Prelim and Grand representing Big Green and shooting Nitro 27.

Big Green competes and wins with Remington Premier shotshells. Top quality, consistency and accuracy come standard when trap, skeet or sporting competitors shoot the iconic Premier STS and Nitro 27 families of ammunition.

Find Remington ammunition at dealers nationwide and online. For more information on Remington ammunition and accessories, visit www.remington.com.

Posted in Ammo, Industry, Press Release, Shooting Sports | Comments Off on Remington’s Logan Henry Secures Doubles Victory at the Grand American World Trapshooting Championship

SK Customs Announces “Raphaello”, the Latest of the Early Italian Renaissance Series

Thursday, August 22nd, 2024

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – SK Guns®, the Nation’s only series-driven, limited-edition manufacturer of custom firearms, is proud to announce the third installment of the Early Italian Renaissance Series. This firearm is a tribute to the works of Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino, generally known as Raphael.

“The ‘Raphaello’ is a masterpiece that embodies the essence of Raphael’s artistic brilliance. We designed it with meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship, aiming to create a firearm that pays homage to the renowned Italian painter and architect,” said Simon Khiabani, owner and founder of SK Guns. “This limited-edition piece is a testament to the fusion of art and functionality, combining the beauty of Renaissance aesthetics with the precision and reliability of modern firearms.”

The Early Italian Renaissance Series symbolizes the turn of the 15th century, marking a cultural rebirth, focusing on classical knowledge, art and humanism that sparked innovations in painting, sculpture and architecture, with each firearm in the Early Italian Renaissance Series offering a limited edition of only 250 units.

The final gun in this collection features engravings of Raphael’s artworks. Coming to life on this firearm, “The Garvagh Madonna,” “The Three Graces,” and “The Miraculous Draught of Fishes” capture the essence of Raphael’s timeless creations for art enthusiasts and firearm collectors alike.

SK Customs uses proprietary color conversion to create a pastel rose color, which is highly reflective and permanent. The firearm wears genuine imported Italian Olivewood grip panels engraved with Italy’s Fleur De Lis, which are hand-painted to match the pastel rose accents on the slide.

SK Customs completes this work of art with a semi-polished finish on the frame and slide flats, a highly polished barrel, and selective 24k gold plating to the art and select parts.

This new installment of the Early Italian Renaissance series is available for shipping immediately.

MSRP starts at $2405.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | Comments Off on SK Customs Announces “Raphaello”, the Latest of the Early Italian Renaissance Series

Meprolight Strengthens Presence in India with New Assembly Line

Thursday, August 22nd, 2024

Technology Transfer Agreement with RRP S4E Innovation Pvt Ltd, a Leading Indian Defense Innovator, Signifies Growing Demand for Meprolight’s Electro-optical Sights

Israel, August 21, 2024 – Meprolight (1990) Ltd., a member of the SK Group founded by Mr. Samy Katsav and a leading manufacturer of electro-optical systems, thermal and night vision equipment, as well as self-illuminated sights for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications, proudly announces the opening of a new assembly line in India. The official launch event took place on July 10, 2024, in Mumbai, India, marking the cooperation agreement with RRP S4E INNOVATION PVT. LTD, a leading Indian Defense Innovator.

The Technology Transfer Agreement (ToT) responds to the increasing global demand for Meprolight’s Electro-optical and Optical Sights and supports the expansion of its manufacturing capabilities through sharing of manufacturing knowledge with RRP S4E INNOVATION PVT. LTD.

The assembly line will produce the MEPRO MOR, a versatile reflex sight for day, low-light, and night operations with integrated laser pointers; the MEPRO M5, a red dot sight with multiple brightness levels and NVG compatibility; and the MEPRO M21, a self-illuminated reflex sight utilizing fiber-optic and tritium technology, ensuring continuous operation without batteries; all, MIL-STD and battle proven products. Production of these leading sights will occur at RRP S4E INNOVATION PVT. LTD. in India, adhering to military and ISO 9001 standards.

” This initiative not only meets the rising global demand for Meprolight sights but also underscores our dedication to delivering superior solutions worldwide,” said Golan Kalimi, VP Marketing at Meprolight. “We are committed to sharing our manufacturing expertise with our Indian partners at RRP S4E INNOVATION PVT. LTD., supporting the ‘Made in India’ initiative and fostering more job opportunities in the country.”

For more information on Meprolight and its range of electro-optical products, please visit www.meprolight.com and Meprolight LinkedIn.

Posted in Industry, International, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on Meprolight Strengthens Presence in India with New Assembly Line

Hydra Weaponry MARCK-15 9mm H17 Modular Rifle Expands GLOCK Owners Options

Thursday, August 22nd, 2024

Hydra Weaponry answers the call from civilian and law enforcement GLOCK® 9mm pistol owners to design a modular AR platform specifically for the GLOCK 9mm magazine.

Hermon, Maine (August 2024) – Hydra Weaponry, Maine’s largest firearms employer, designers, and manufacturers of the truly modular MARCK-15 Hydra® Weapon System, have answered the call from GLOCK® pistol owners and proudly unveil the Hydra MARCK-15 9mm H17 Modular Rifle.

With millions of GLOCK pistols owned by responsible civilians and law enforcement professionals, the need for a modular AR platform that could accept GLOCK 9mm magazines was apparent. The team at Hydra Weaponry designed the new Hydra MARCK-15 9mm H17 rifle to accept magazines from any GLOCK model 17, 19, 26, 34, 45, and 48 pistol, including the new Gens. For civilians and law enforcement, the option of using a pistol and AR rifle in the same caliber is not only cost effective, but also reduces training time, and for LE officers provides better cross-training, reduces errors, builds officer confidence, and provides officers with additional resources, especially under duress.

Built on the Hydra Modular Lower Receiver incorporating the new 9mm H17 magazine well, and the Hydra Quick Change Barrel Upper Receiver (QCB-D), the rifle features a Hydra 16-inch 9mm blowback barrel and bolt, and 9mm GLOCK-style magazine. The rugged B5 Systems stock and pistol grip provides the user with incredible durability in unpredictable environmental circumstances.

Additionally, now the owner of the Hydra MARCK-15 9mm H17 Modular rifle can use this as the base to expand caliber capabilities through Hydra Weaponry’s growing magazine well and caliber conversion kits. Easy to change out, even in the field, the rifle requires no tools to convert to another caliber with the most the user will ever need to change out is the barrel, bolt, and bolt carrier, and the magazine well to the new caliber.

“We are proud to offer this Maine-made AR system to the American public and law enforcement that continue to passionately carry GLOCK 9mm pistols as their daily EDC, or for competition, self-defense, or as the job requires,” Mack Gwinn III, CEO of Hydra Weaponry, summed up.

Dealers interested in carrying the new Hydra MARCK-15 9mm H17 Modular Rifle, should contact Tanner Smart for the Hydra Dealer Program.

For more information on Hydra Weaponry, visit the new website at www.hydraweaponry.com.

Posted in Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on Hydra Weaponry MARCK-15 9mm H17 Modular Rifle Expands GLOCK Owners Options

Fluent in Unity: How LEAP Airmen Powered Joint Success at Arcane Thunder 24

Thursday, August 22nd, 2024

Air Force Lt. Col. Rodrigo Ocampo, Capt. Cassaundra Preston and Staff Sgt. Arnaud Agbo arrived on July 24, 2024, in Morocco ready to support Arcane Thunder 24 with a unique skill set and capabilities that extended beyond traditional military strategy. Their team focused on a specific domain that has not yet been mastered by a piece of technology – human interactions. The team of three volunteered through the Language Enabled Airman Program, also known as LEAP, to serve as linguistic and cultural experts. Their presence supported the mission at hand and deepened the connections between the U.S. and Morocco, showcasing the critical role of language and cultural integration in joint military operations.

Arcane Thunder 24 was a complex, multi-domain exercise that tested the interoperability between the U.S. Army and Moroccan Royal Armed Forces. Ocampo and Preston assisted with integration by serving as linguists during the training. Agbo moved with teams on the ground to support multiple elements. Although their uniform might have been different than that of the U.S. Army and Moroccan military members they served alongside, they were a vital bridge between the two.

“Our LEAP partners were instrumental in the successful completion of Arcane Thunder 24,” said Lt. Col. Aaron Ritzema, the 2nd Multi-Domain Effects Battalion commander. “They brought a high level of cultural and linguistic expertise that benefited our daily operations. Additionally, they rounded out our Joint Force and provided creative solutions to exercise specific challenges.”

As Arcane Thunder 24 unfolded, the airmen forged relationships that assisted both nations. Each of the LEAP scholars proved to be a valuable addition to the exercise in unique ways.

For Ocampo, Preston, and Agbo, this was their first experience in a joint exercise as LEAP scholars. Preston hails from California and has developed a passion for travel. Volunteering for LEAP opportunities has allowed her to gain experience in different countries and work alongside other cultures as an advisor during operations.

“I saw LEAP as an opportunity to travel and experience different cultures,” she said. “We bonded with the Moroccan soldiers over meals and over our love of communicating in different languages.”

While speaking about the value of utilizing uniformed service members in the role of cultural experts, Preston added, “Leaders often undervalue the importance of culture, and as LEAP scholars, we are able to demonstrate that value at the organizational level.”

Ocampo led the team of interpreters during Arcane Thunder 24, but more importantly, he built a cohesive team of trusted experts within the staff. His duties ranged from teaching and translating cyber domain classes to assisting and coordinating events for distinguished visitors. Ocampo demonstrated the power of joint operations and integration by extending his knowledge of technical skills and culture beyond the walls of the tactical operations center. It was a regular occurrence to find him assisting U.S. and Moroccan soldiers anywhere in the exercise.

“LEAP provides organizations with scholars that have a high aptitude in both language and culture,” said Ocampo. “We are able to use our skills to advise on ways to connect with our counterparts from different regions and cultures.” Ocampo has served in joint units before but said that he gained a new perspective working as a cultural advisor for the 2nd MDEB.

As airmen, all three LEAP scholars described the need to learn the Army language initially. Agbo focused on gaining credibility with both counterparts by volunteering to join them on every mission, including recovering downed equipment at night. “The team consisted of the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, and the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces, and we were all able to get together as one team,” said Agbo. “We were all equally exhausted, but we knew what we had to do, and we were able to come together and stay motivated to accomplish the mission.”

Agbo was pivotal as a linguist and cultural expert, ensuring that multiple teams received linguistic support at two separate training areas during Arcane Thunder 24. His dedication to the team was highlighted at the final dinner by numerous leaders within the 2nd MDEB. “Having a positive mindset and energy shows people that we are here to be a part of the team,” said Agbo. “When both the Moroccans and U.S. Army are comfortable with us, we can build the relationship and develop a bond that creates a strong team.”

Agbo was born and raised in West Africa and emigrated to the United States when he was 19. He said he decided to join the U.S. Air Force to serve his new country. “One thing I believe is that if you find something good, you should always try to make it better,” said Agbo. “Serving in the military was my opportunity to serve my country, leave my imprint, and try to make my country better.”

LEAP solves a commonly experienced friction point across military exercises – language and cultural integration. The force multiplier program puts uniformed service members in the position to aid and enhance joint partnerships. The Department of Defense reported approximately 3,500 multi-capable, language-enabled airmen with proficiencies in over 97 languages.

Part of the program maintains deployment readiness for the LEAP scholars to deploy to support joint operations worldwide. The unique aspect of the program is that it brings together the U.S. Army, the U.S. Air Force, and international allies and partners.

“This was my first time being embedded in an Army staff,” said Ocampo when asked about his experience at Arcane Thunder 24. “I got to experience the Army culture while working in the field with the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces, and I am really glad that I got to have such a diverse experience.”

Arcane Thunder 24 was held in Morocco this year for the first time. The exercise proved to be a step towards strengthening the U.S. relationship with Morocco. Integration of the staff elements was made more accessible by placing airmen as linguists and cultural experts to be the connective tissue between the U.S. Army and the Moroccan military.

Story by CPT Michael Mastrangelo

Photos by SSG Rene Rosas

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Electric Micromobility Operations Vehicle from Bunker Supply

Wednesday, August 21st, 2024

Bunker Supply has been awarded a SBIR Phase II for the continued development of the Electric Micromobility Operations Vehicle (E-MOV).

E-MOV is a versatile, decentralized electric micromobility vehicle to optimize base operations and support distributed operating bases by aiding distributed operations at dispersed locations, a key component of the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept.

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TacJobs – US Army Direct Commissioning Program

Wednesday, August 21st, 2024

The US military has been direct commissioning Chaplains as well as legal and medical professionals for decades.

The National Defense Authorization Act of 2019 (NDAA 2019) gave the armed services authorities to directly commission officers up to the rank of Colonel, expanding the career fields eligible.

For example, MAJ Chris Young is the first to direct commission into the Army Acquisition Corps. He took his Oath of Office Aug. 16 at Fort Moore.

For more information, visit talent.army.mil/direct-commissioning.

Posted in Army, Profession of Arms | 1 Comment »