November 2024 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for November, 2024

First of the First: 11th Air Task Force Conducts First Field Exercise

Wednesday, November 27th, 2024

McGREGOR RANGE, N.M. —

The 11th Air Task Force conducted its first field training exercise at McGregor Range, New Mexico, Nov. 4-19, 2024.

As the Air Force shifts toward a more agile, team-oriented force structure, the exercise united Airmen from Davis-Monthan and Holloman Air Force Base to test and refine new concepts for combat readiness.

“This is the future of the Air Force,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Daniel Jamerson, 11th Combat Air Base Squadron commander. “We’re here to prepare our Airmen for the next fight, whether in new terrain, against new adversaries, or in different operational conditions than what we’ve faced in the past.”

The exercise focused on protection-based core task training, ensuring Airmen from diverse career fields are ready to operate as a cohesive unit in combat scenarios. This approach contrasts with past models where Airmen were individually deployed and often worked with unfamiliar teams upon arrival. The shift toward integrated team training reflects the Air Force’s vision for agile combat employment, a proactive and reactive operational scheme of maneuver to enable U.S. forces to increase survivability while generating combat power.

Airmen learned and demonstrated base defense drills, weapons tactics, visual signals, guardian angel and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear preparedness. Airmen also gained experience using counter-unmanned aerial systems, M4 carbines, M18 pistols and heavy weapons.

The training culminated in a base defense scenario, led by U.S. Army 2-363rd Training Support Battalion Task Force Black Scorpion out of Fort Bliss, Texas, where Airmen implemented everything they learned and demonstrated their ability to defend a contingency location while under simulated attack.

“This training instills mission ready airmen and agile combat employment techniques to ensure that we are prepared for that next fight,” said Jamerson. “It’s great to be proficient in your primary Air Force Specialty Code, but you need to be prepared at any given day to be whatever we need to be for a combat air base squadron. It all comes down to that mission focused piece.”

Security forces Airmen led focused training for fellow 11th ATF members.

This training is setting us up to be the best technical experts in our AFSCs while training our peers who are deploying with us, said Airman 1st Class Caleb Roy, 355th Security Forces Squadron response force member. Roy explained the team was preparing one another for aircraft protection, access control, vehicle searches, weapons tactics, and day-to-day proficiencies so each Airman is interchangeable down range.

The 11th ATF’s efforts are part of a broader initiative to align Air Force force presentation models with those of sister services. The goal is to provide the Department of Defense with clearer insights into Air Force capabilities and readiness levels. The exercise also served as the first opportunity for the Airmen of the 11th Air Task Force, split between Davis-Monthan and Holloman, to train together.

“This is our first opportunity to [come together] to learn our strengths and weaknesses,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jerome Clark, 11th CABS senior enlisted leader. “It’s much better to work with the team all the way through a cycle. All of that ties into us training together, and then deploying together and having a successful mission.”

The exercise prepared Airmen for the way the Air Force will be operating going forward and familiarizes them with the Air Force Force Generation Cycle. It allows a more predictable deployment cycle and the ability to better plan operations without the disruptions of last-minute assignments. This structured approach not only enhances operational readiness but also builds confidence among the team.

“We’re deliberate, motivated, and excited,” said Clark. “This process is setting the foundation for a stronger, more agile Air Force.”

Jamerson echoes Clark’s feelings.

“The future is here,” said Jamerson. “The combat air base squadron is not just a concept, it’s the reality of how we’re going to fight and win the next conflict. We’re building something transformational, and this is just the beginning.”

By Airman 1st Class Jasmyne Bridgers-Matos, 355th Wing

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, SOF, Training | No Comments »

DroneShield Releases 4Q24 Firmware Updates

Tuesday, November 26th, 2024

DroneShield (“DroneShield” or “the Company”) is pleased to announce it has released the latest update to its full range of Radio Frequency (RF) sensors including the RfPatrol, DroneSentry-X and RfOne models.

This update adds new drone models and communication protocols which can be identified by RFAI, including new types of home-made or non-commercial UxS. RF devices operate with greater stability and accuracy resulting in faster, more reliable drone detection.

New features include:

Faster Scanning with AI: Detection scans are now 17% faster, so users are notified of drones sooner and kept up to date in near-real-time. Settings can be configured to further optimise scan time based on mission requirements

New Drone Types: RFAI drone library has been expanded to recognise more signals which are used in custom and aftermarket drones

Growing API: Each device’s inbuilt gRPC API extends to cover greater control of positioning systems. Disruption protocols are faster and more regular, providing dependability when it matters most

Cybersecurity Resilience: Onboard firmware has seen a slew of security improvements in line with expectations from leading defence clients

AI & Software Improvements: Increased accuracy in direction-finding calculations, as well as future-proofing features for upcoming performance improvements in 2025

Angus Bean, DroneShield Chief Technology Officer, commented, “DroneShield always aims to provide our customers with industry-leading technology so they can maintain the highest degree of safety and security in the face of an evolving drone threat.”

For more information on product capabilities, visit www.droneshield.com.

Posted in Press Release, Tac Apps, UAS | No Comments »

TacJobs – Massif Seeks Military Sales Representative

Tuesday, November 26th, 2024

Massif is seeking a Military Sales Representative to drive sales of Company’s apparel products to domestic military customers and grow revenue through developing new domestic military business, all in support of the Company’s vision, strategies, and goals.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintains and grows small contract sales through cultivation of relationships with government contacts in appropriate branches of the U.S. military, as well as federal, state, and local government offices.

o Monitors government initiatives and research and development efforts

o Grows sales through “small contract” procurement vehicles, i.e., GSA, BSC, and TLS

• Attends trade shows, industry events, and other functions to represent the Company.

• Provides sales and other reports to management as requested.

• Mastery of product offering and solutions.

• Provides continued feedback from customers to management and internal teams for use in product design and development.

• Collaborates with Customer Service team to ensure customer satisfaction.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Performs all duties in accordance with Company Quality Management System.

• Frequent domestic travel (50%+)

COMPETENCIES:

• Strong understanding of military/government customers and procurement.

• Strong knowledge of Company products, including features, benefits, and applications.

• Ability to build strong customer relationships.

• Strong creative problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written;including strong presentation skills.

• Team-player orientation.

• Ability to organize and effectively prioritize multiple tasks to meet deadlines and sales objectives.

• Self-initiating, with ability to work independently.

• Strong computer skills (Word, Excel, Outlook, MRP/ERP systems, CRM system, web searching)

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent education or experience.

• 1-3 years of sales experience, preferably within military/government channels.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands described are those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position is primarily a sedentary position, which requires frequent use of a computer monitor and keyboard, and frequent lifting of up to 25 pounds. It requires occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds. It requires the ability to talk and hear. There are no special vision requirements. It rarely requires reaching, climbing, bending, stooping, crouching, kneeling, or crawling.

This position is subject to limited office noise.

This position frequently requires driving a rental vehicle while traveling on Company business.

Please apply through www.massif.com/careers and send a resume and cover letter to jobs@massif.com . All applicants must fill out and submit the EEO and Veteran Status Survey (Click here) and Voluntary Self-Identification of Disability (Click here). Answer the survey questions, click continue at the bottom of the page, and then click submit. The completed survey will be forwarded to us automatically.

Massif is an industry leader in making advanced fabrics and protective clothing for professionals who work in extreme environments, from the U.S. military to wildland firefighters and law enforcement professionals. Our mission is to provide comfort and flame protection for people in the world’s most dangerous jobs. We accomplish this mission with integrity and a commitment to superior customer service.

The Massif team is hardworking and energetic, focused on doing whatever it takes to get the job done. Our employees appreciate the outdoors and pride themselves on understanding the needs of our customers. Massif is dedicated to supporting its team members’ whole-hearted engagement in accomplishing Massif’s mission by recognizing the need for work/life balance. Our team works hard and plays hard. We aspire to be contributing members of our local community and the communities of our customers such as the U.S. military.

Located in the beautiful resort town of Ashland in Southern Oregon, Massif offers a casual, open work environment with plenty of opportunities for personal and professional growth.

EEO/Disabled/Veterans

Posted in TacJobs | No Comments »

AeroVironment to Acquire BlueHalo, Establishing Next-Generation Defense Technology Company

Tuesday, November 26th, 2024

Enables AeroVironment’s Entry into Key Segments and Strengthens Multi-Domain Capabilities

All-Stock Transaction Will Significantly Enhance Growth and Diversification

ARLINGTON, Va. – November 19, 2024 – AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV) (“AV” or the “Company”) and BlueHalo LLC (“BlueHalo”) today announced the execution of a definitive agreement under which AV will acquire BlueHalo in an all-stock transaction with an enterprise value of approximately $4.1 billion, creating a more diversified global leader in all-domain defense technologies. The combined company will bring together complementary capabilities to offer a comprehensive portfolio of high-growth franchises, powered by cutting-edge technology and focused on addressing the most important priorities and needs of our nation and allies around the globe.

BlueHalo, an Arlington Capital Partners portfolio company, was founded as a purpose-built platform providing industry-leading capabilities in several key mission areas: Space Technologies, Counter-Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (cUAS), Directed Energy, Electronic Warfare, Cyber, Artificial Intelligence and other Emerging Technologies including Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (UUVs). Since its founding in 2019, BlueHalo’s notable accomplishments include being the first to successfully operationally field directed energy (DE) laser weapon systems (LWS) with its LOCUST LWS, being awarded Space Force’s multi-billion dollar program to transform space operations with BADGER, its adaptive phased array product and serving as a leader in Radio Frequency Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (RF C-UAS), delivering its 1000th system last year with its Titan and Titan-SV systems. BlueHalo has focused on cutting-edge research and development allowing for the development of products and services to transform the future of global defense.

BlueHalo estimates that it will achieve more than $900 million in revenues for 2024, in addition to funded backlog of nearly $600 million and a pipeline of multiple billion-dollar opportunities and programs of record. BlueHalo generated approximately $886 million of revenue in 2023, compared to $759 million and $660 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The acquisition of BlueHalo will create a diversified Defense Tech company with a highly complementary and differentiated portfolio of solutions in Uncrewed Systems, short and long range Loitering Munitions, Counter UAS, Space Technologies, Electronic Warfare and Cyber, powered by AI and Autonomy. This combination will drive innovation, expand manufacturing capacity and enable us to better support our customers and their critical missions. AV expects that BlueHalo’s portfolio of 10 flagship solution families and more than 100 patents will seamlessly integrate with AV’s complementary existing expertise in the design, development, manufacturing, training and servicing of Uncrewed Systems, Loitering Munitions and Advanced Technologies.

AV and BlueHalo believe that these synergies will primarily be identified as administrative and operational cost savings and sharing best practices from each company. The companies’ shared culture of agile innovation and mission expertise will enable the combined entity to develop and deliver next-generation technologies that will have significant military value and redefine the next era of Defense Technology. On a pro forma basis, the combined company is expected to deliver more than $1.7 billion in revenue.

“For over 50 years, AV has pioneered innovative solutions on the battlefield, and today we are poised to usher in the next era of defense technology through our combination with BlueHalo,” said Wahid Nawabi, AV chairman, president and chief executive officer.

“BlueHalo not only brings key franchises and complementary capabilities, but also a wealth of technologies, diverse customers and exceptional talent to AV. Together, we will drive agile innovation and deliver comprehensive, next-generation solutions designed to redefine the future of defense. We are thrilled to welcome the talented BlueHalo team as we unite our strengths, expand our global impact and accelerate growth and value creation for AV shareholders.”

Jonathan Moneymaker, chief executive officer of BlueHalo, said, “BlueHalo was founded to address the most pressing challenges confronting the defense and national security community, from unconventional threats to near-peer adversaries. We have pioneered solutions for drone warfare, distributed autonomy, and the need for more robust and assured access to space in an increasingly contested, crowded and competitive domain. Through these efforts, we have earned our reputation as a trusted partner in defense innovation. By uniting with AV, we are building an organization equipped to meet emerging defense priorities and deliver purpose-driven, state-of-the-art solutions with unmatched speed. Together, we remain committed to protecting those who defend us while driving the next generation of transformational advancements in defense technology.”

Strategic and Financial Benefits:

• Creates a diversified industry leader. This transaction brings together AV’s established portfolio of cutting-edge defense solutions with BlueHalo’s emerging and industry-defining technologies. This union will provide customers with a comprehensive suite of solutions across multiple domains—including air, land, sea, space and cyber. Together, AV and BlueHalo will create a leader in integrated defense technologies with a global footprint capable of addressing the full spectrum of modern defense.

• Increases agility and speed, with enhanced infrastructure, manufacturing capabilities and geographic footprint. The combined company will benefit from greater resources, enabling faster innovation and more efficient deployment of critical defense systems.

• Supports AV’s entry into additional key defense segments and builds on the Company’s strong track record of providing essential solutions. With BlueHalo’s portfolio, AV will enter into new segments that will significantly increase the Company’s total addressable market, including Counter-UAS, Directed Energy, Electronic Warfare, Cyber and Space technologies. The acquisition will bring with it BlueHalo’s key programs of record, deep customer relationships and strong backlog and pipeline, positioning the future company as a more robust and sustainable prime defense solution provider. This partnership will enhance AV’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the Department of Defense (DoD) and allied nations with a robust suite of innovative solutions.

• Diversifies mix of customers, products and revenue. The combined company is expected to achieve a more balanced and diversified customer base, product and revenue mix, benefiting from BlueHalo’s established presence in key emerging defense markets. The combined company will benefit from expanded geographical reach, with the ability to provide BlueHalo’s solutions to AV’s larger international customer base. By integrating complementary capabilities, AV will be well-positioned to generate sustained long-term value for shareholders.

• Generates attractive returns. AV expects the transaction to be accretive to revenue, adjusted EBITDA and non-GAAP EPS in the first full fiscal year post-close.

Transaction Details

The transaction, which has been unanimously approved by both companies’ board of directors or managers, is expected to close in the first half of calendar 2025, subject to regulatory and AV shareholder approvals, as well as other customary closing conditions.

Per the terms of the merger agreement, AV will issue approximately 18.5 million shares of AV common stock to BlueHalo.

Following the close of the transaction and based on AV’s shares outstanding as of November 18, 2024, AV’s shareholders will own approximately 60.5% of the combined company and BlueHalo’s equity holders will own approximately 39.5%, subject to closing adjustments. Arlington Capital Partners, an investment firm that is the majority owner of BlueHalo, will retain a significant ownership stake in the combined company.

We expect substantially all of the BlueHalo holders to enter lock-up agreements with respect to their transaction consideration, with 40% releasing 12 months post close and the remaining 60% to be released in equal tranches 18 and 24 months after the close.

Leadership, Governance and Headquarters

Following the completion of the transaction, AV Chairman, President and CEO Wahid Nawabi will be Chairman, President and CEO of the combined company. Jonathan Moneymaker, CEO of BlueHalo, will serve as a strategic advisor to Mr. Nawabi and the combined company Management Team.

Upon closing, the AV Board of Directors will be expanded to comprise 10 members.

Arlington Capital Partners will have the right to appoint two directors to the Board, subject to minimum ownership thresholds.

The combined company will be at headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, at AV’s corporate headquarters.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

Team O’Neil’s Tactical Driving Tuesday – Close Proximity

Tuesday, November 26th, 2024

In this week’s tip, Instructor Wyatt discusses close proximity driving and suggests drills you can use to imporve your skills.

If you’re in need of in-person training like this, sign up for the Team O’Neill Tactical Driving Course at their facility in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This five-day course includes driving under NODS and is available to military and other government agencies as well as civilians.

Posted in Guest Post, Mobility, Training | No Comments »

HUGE Savings from Blue Force Gear

Tuesday, November 26th, 2024

We recently learned that Blue Force Gear has a sale running on their site for up to 70% Off! The 90+ products that are marked down include discontinued colorways, overstock items, limited runs, and more.

If you’ve followed BFG for long enough, you know that they’re not in the habit of cutting prices, but this sale is the exception, NOT the rule. These are the best savings you’ll find from them for a long time.

Check out their sale in the link below:

www.blueforcegear.com/shop-deals

Posted in Sales | No Comments »

The Ultimate Black Friday Sale at vertx.com Starts Now!

Tuesday, November 26th, 2024

The Ultimate Black Friday Sale at vertx.com Starts Now!

Get 30% off sitewide using code BF30, giving you the chance to snag top-tier tactical gear that never compromises on quality. But that’s not all—score up to 80% off on select items, no code needed.

Exclusions apply on new releases and sale items, but with deals like these, it’s a tactical treasure hunt you don’t want to miss. Shop the Vertx Black Friday Sale now!

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post | No Comments »

Lt. Gen. James M. Gavin Joint Innovation Outpost: A Legacy of Progress and Innovation

Tuesday, November 26th, 2024

FORT LIBERTY, N.C. — Fort Liberty held a defining moment on November 14, 2024, with the dedication of the Lt. Gen. James M. Gavin Joint Innovation Outpost. This event celebrated not just a new facility but the enduring legacy of Lt. Gen. Gavin, a leader whose vision for innovation resonates deeply with the Army’s mission today.

Army leaders, Soldiers, innovators and Gavin’s family gathered to honor his contributions while setting the stage for a future of cutting-edge capabilities. Gavin, fondly known as “Jumping Jim,” embodied the Army’s spirit of adaptation and excellence.

Chloe Gavin-Beatty, his daughter, shared during the ceremony, “My father was always asking, ‘How do we solve this problem? How can we do this better?’”

These words reflect his life’s work, from pioneering airborne warfare during WWII to advocating for advanced tactical systems as head of research and development. His foresight in utilizing helicopters for combat mobility predated their iconic use in Vietnam highlighting the kind of thinking that inspired this outpost.

Gavin’s belief in change wasn’t just professional — it was personal. As Chloe shared, even as a child, Gavin urged her to embrace innovation, recounting his own leap from the horse-bound Army of the 1920s to the technology-driven force he helped shape. His legacy underscores the value of questioning the status quo — a principle that guides the mission of the outpost bearing his name.,

The innovation outpost represents a leap forward for the Army. Capt. Robert Scalzo, senior software engineer for XVIII Airborne Corps, described the capabilities it offers as classified and unclassified spaces with unmatched flexibility.

“It’s not just about solving today’s problems but about building the infrastructure to tackle tomorrow’s challenges,” said Scalzo.

Purpose-built for adaptability, the space supports everything from warfighter exercises to large-scale technology conferences. Its proximity to key partners — including Defense Innovation Unit and local universities — removes barriers to collaboration, allowing ideas to flow freely and solutions to develop rapidly.

Unlike retrofitted buildings, the outpost’s design reflects a clear vision: to empower teams across the Department of Defense, academia and industry. It serves as both a resource and a hub, enabling the Army to outthink and outpace adversaries. It is equipped with cutting-edge resources designed to foster creativity and solve problems in real time.

Inside its walls will be 3D printing labs, virtual reality simulation suites and prototyping workshops, all enabling Soldiers and engineers to take ideas from concept to reality. These tools are vital for pushing innovation forward, offering the Army the ability to address challenges head-on. One standout example comes from the 82nd Airborne Division’s Innovation Lab, which used 3D printing technology to design and produce custom radio mounts for their Infantry Squad Vehicles.

Before this, they lacked the capability to ensure secure and reliable communication for their crews. Solutions like this underscore how these resources aren’t just high-tech — they’re essential for mission success.

The dedication ceremony also showcased the outpost’s importance as a resource for Soldiers at every level. Lt. Gen. Christopher Donahue, commanding general of the XVIII Airborne Corps, emphasized the need for such facilities in an unpredictable world.

“You have to have a facility that can out-think, out-adapt, and out-anything your adversary does,” Donahue stated.

The outpost embodies this ethos, offering the tools and partnerships needed to remain at the forefront of military innovation. Beyond the technology and infrastructure, the outpost represents something more profound: a commitment to the Army’s people.

Gavin’s leadership philosophy prioritized the well-being of his Soldiers, and this facility reflects that same care. Chloe Gavin-Beatty recounted how her father would walk the front lines to check on morale and ensure his troops had what they needed. Similarly, this innovation hub asks a simple but vital question of every Soldier: “What do you need to do your job better?”

From the Battle of the Bulge to the labs of today, the spirit of innovation has been central to the Army’s success. The Lt. Gen. James M. Gavin Joint Innovation Outpost builds on this tradition, creating a space where ideas can thrive, solutions can emerge and the Army can continue leading in a complex world.

As Chloe concluded during the ceremony, “This lab continues my father’s lifelong drive to solve problems and embrace change.”

Her words encapsulate the enduring impact of Lt. Gen. Gavin’s legacy and the transformative potential of this facility.

The outpost is more than a facility — it is a promise to the future. By fostering collaboration, advancing technology, and prioritizing Soldier readiness, it ensures the Army remains a step ahead. The dedication of this innovation hub is not just a tribute to the past but a bold statement of intent: to lead, to adapt and to succeed in an ever-changing battlefield.

By SGT Jacob Bradford

Posted in Army, Disruptive Tech, Guest Post | No Comments »