November 2024 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for November, 2024

Prometheus Design Werx – SPD CAS OTF v2

Thursday, November 21st, 2024

Special Projects Division CA.lifornia S.pecial O.ut t.he F.ront Auto Knife in MagnaCut

PDW releases their v2 CA.lifornia S.pecialO.ut t.he F.ront automatic knife featuring MagnaCut steel, under their sub-label of Special Projects Division. Compact and legal to carry in the state of California, this knife is precision made from aerospace grade T6061 AL, 6AL4V titanium, Crucible MagnaCut, and Hyperglow.

Details make the design. We produce some of the only OTFs on the market with a milled contoured handle, which requires 3x longer on the CNC to achieve. We designed this OTF handle where the machine screws are in blind holes for an unclutteredand clean presentation side. A titanium pocket clip, and a titanium slider with Hyperglow dot round out the finer details.

The SPD Edition CAS OTF v2 will be available with a 2-tone finished blade and dark gray, OD green, and orange or purple anodized or DLC handles.

PDW Founder and Chief Designer PDW states:

“The CA.lifornia S.pecial OTF exemplifies my design and production ethos. Its functional design strength comes from its simplicity. There are no racing stripes, randomly ground contours, garish decorative elements, superfluous swooshes and silly lines. Despites its diminutive ‘California Special” size, this compact out the front knife is very versatile and highly usable for your daily cutting chores. From opening boxes, stubborn plastic packages, to envelopes, and much more, this knife will easily tackle the job. The action is crisp and satisfying to fire and close. I chose the highest level of materials and held steadfast to our stringent attention to details and highest quality of make. For those who adhere to the philosophy of form follows function, find beauty in finely made edged tools, and demand precision made mechanical objects, the CAS OTF is made for you.”

The SPD CAS OTF v2 is available now for $195.00 via their website, prometheusdesignwerx.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Knives, Press Release | No Comments »

Red Cat Announces Production Selection for U.S. Army Short Range Reconnaissance Program

Thursday, November 21st, 2024

Red Cat’s next generation Teal system will be the Army’s Program of Record SRR sUAS, concluding the rigorous, multi-tranche competitive process

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Nov. 19, 2024 — Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat”), a leading American drone technology company, has been selected as the winner of the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program of Record. The production selection was made after a test and evaluation process of Teal’s next generation sUAS, completed by the Army Project Management Office for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, Army Maneuver Battle Lab, Army Test and Evaluation Command, and Army Operational Test Center.

“This is a powerful moment in time, coming after five years of blood, sweat, and tears put into SRR by our incredible team. The long-awaited production selection marks a new era for our company and the future of American drones,” said George Matus, founder of Teal and CTO of Red Cat. “We were selected based on soldier feedback, technical performance, volume manufacturability, and system cost. Our top priority now is to start ramping production of the next generation system, recently announced as the Black Widow and WEB, and give warfighters the tools they need to be successful on the modern battlefield.”

“Warfare has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past two years, with a significant shift towards drone technology, exemplified by the SRR Black Widow. It is an honor to support the U.S. Army by delivering the Black Widow to our warfighters. We believe this advanced technology will enable the Army to shape the battlefield, save soldiers’ lives, and serve as a powerful tool in their arsenal,” said Jeff Thompson, CEO of Red Cat. “This long-term contract will give us the capability to continue to improve the Black Widow, scale production and improve margins.”

“Both the operational and tactical levels of war and maneuver of combat elements have evolved significantly over the past couple of years,” said Paul Edward Funk II, retired Four-Star Army General and Red Cat board member. “Operational success today depends on the ability to seamlessly move data across the battlefield. From a tactical perspective, small unmanned aerial systems that are rucksack portable are playing a vital role in Intelligence Surveillance & Reconnaissance, as well as surgical strike capabilities based on the real-time needs of the warfighter.”

The SRR contract selection builds on significant momentum for Red Cat, with the acquisition of FlightWave Aerospace, the announcement of the ARACHNID™ family of systems, and the creation of the Red Cat Futures Initiative. The company is focused on ramping production of Teal’s next generation system to meet the Army’s currently stated acquisition objective for 5,880 systems, which is subject to change over the 5 year period of performance. Red Cat is also preparing to meet increased demand across the rest of the U.S. DoD, federal government, and allied countries, to support operators and warfighters globally.

For more information about Red Cat and the U.S. Army’s Short-Range Reconnaissance Program of Record, please visit www.redcat.red.

Posted in Army, Contracts, Press Release, UAS | 2 Comments »

Radical Defense BAD-21 Suppressor

Thursday, November 21st, 2024

After successfully suppressing the M2A1 and M2A2 .50cal Machine Guns, RD (Radical Defense) began pursuing the next evolution of the original 50 FVS suppressor. The design intent was a modular, more streamlined, lower weight, higher flow suppressor with a reduced form factor. What followed was the 50 GPS (General Purpose Suppressor) Program.

50 GPS utilizes one suppressor with multiple mounting options via taper lock mount muzzle devices. Each muzzle device is designed with specific internal geometries and thread pitches per use on each intended weaponsystem while using the same, standard external geometries; for example,making the same suppressor useable on a Barrett M107, a McMillan TAC-50, and an M2A1.

Using a 50 GPS muzzle device designed to thread into a barrel shroud, RD mounted and performed limited function testing of 50 GPS on an M3Pwith the eventual goal of adapting 50 GPS for use on the GAU-21.Utilizing customer feedback, in an effort to simplify the system, RDmoved away from a specialized muzzle device and modular suppressor design. Instead, RD developed the BAD-21 specifically for use on theGAU-21, with a primary focus of reducing Blast Overpressure exposure to the warfighter, air frames, and sensitive electronics.

In an effort to design the most rugged, durable machine gun suppressors possible, RD additively manufactures using Haynes 282. The (Blast Attenuation Device) BAD-21 is a monolithic design, without welds or threaded interfaces, which eliminates potential failure points. Additionally, Haynes 282 exhibits exceptional abrasion and wear resistance, and maintains high levels of strength at extreme temperatures.

The BAD-21 threads directly to the Barrel Jacket replacing the flash hider, and is then secured in place using the factory locking screws. Secondary lock can be achieved with the use of safety wire.

The intent with the BAD-21 is to allow the barrel to move freely and reciprocate as normal, while reducing blast overpressure and sound pressure wave experienced by the gunner, pilots, and/or any crewman operating around the weapon, as well as protect sensitive electronics within the blast radius of the muzzle.

Employing RD’s Breathable Technology, the objective with BAD-21 is to significantly reduce any effects of a suppressor on the kinematics of the host weapon, while also venting high pressure gasses forward of the weapon and not back to the operator. In this particular use case, considering the GAU-21’s high cyclic rate, the goal is to not increase the rate of fire of the weapon, cause reliability concerns, decrease MRBS, or increase long term wear and tear on the weapon, its parts or mounts.

www.RDUSA.com

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Suppressors | No Comments »

Meet the Paratrooper Who Jumped Out of a Plane 100 times — and He’s Just Getting Started

Thursday, November 21st, 2024

AVIANO, Italy — Jumping out of an airplane is a feat that demands both courage and trust. Now imagine doing it 100 times. That’s exactly what 1st Sgt. Jovon Propst, Spartan Company, 54th Brigade Engineer Battalion, achieved on October 9, 2024, when he made the jump, earning the prestigious title of centurion paratrooper.

“I get asked all the time, ‘How did you make it that far?’ I say, ‘My jumps don’t get scratched. It’s just my luck,” Propst said.

Born in Concord, North Carolina, and raised in the vibrant heart of New York City, Propst’s journey to becoming a centurion paratrooper is as dynamic as his personality.

“When it comes to the weather or a mission, it’s always a go for me,” he said. “I’ve had a very intriguing career.”

Propst’s military career began with the now disbanded 307th Engineer Battalion at Fort Liberty. From there, his dedication and skill led him to 3rd Special Forces Group, where he earned the coveted jumpmaster title.

His journey didn’t stop there; he continued to make his mark in the 425th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 11th Airborne Division, stationed in Alaska. It was in Alaska that Propst served as a drop zone safety officer under Col. Joshua Gaspard, who was a squadron commander at the time. Their time together solidified Propst’s reputation as a calm and dependable leader, especially in high-pressure airborne operations. Propst is now serving under Col. Gaspard for the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Italy.

Propst’s love for adrenaline doesn’t end with the Army. He once volunteered as a firefighter in Bell County, Texas — a role that allowed him to continue serving others while feeding his need for action.

For now, Propst remains committed to the Army, calling it home. However, when the time comes to hang up his uniform, he’s already looking ahead to his next adrenaline-fueled mission. After retirement, he plans on becoming a smokejumper so he can fight forest fires from the sky. Propst’s journey from paratrooper to potential smokejumper shows that for some, the sky isn’t the limit — it’s just the beginning.

By CPT Jennifer French

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Parachuting | 3 Comments »

Forsway Secures 2.3 MEUR Funding from the European Space Agency to Build Xtend 5G, an Independent Satellite Connectivity System

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

Stockholm, November 13, 2024: Forsway, provider of cost-efficient hybrid satellite terrestrial solutions and equipment for broadband connectivity, secures a major development funding contract from the European Space Agency (ESA) with support from the Swedish National Space Agency (SNSA). In the new project, Xtend 5G, Forsway will build a next generation 5G NTN two-way/hybrid satellite connectivity system enabling the combined use of satellite and ground infrastructure to provide seamless connectivity anywhere, regardless of network. Xtend 5G will provide European government, defence, emergency services and critical infrastructure sectors with seamless connectivity anywhere, anytime, in an open or closed network and with full system control.

The Xtend 5G development will be co-funded by ESA’s ARTES 4.0 Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity programme line. The Xtend 5G system will be an independent connectivity solution to satellite platforms with the aim of providing a main connectivity source or essential backup for a critical system. The white label solution will enable any security solution being ported on top.

-Tobias Forsell, CEO at Forsway, “We are thrilled to launch this exciting partnership with ESA & SNSA. The new communication system will be a highly beneficial tool for security, government organizations, the energy sector and others demanding secure, robust, and fast communication where full control over the connectivity ecosystem is crucial. Xtend 5G can be employed in an open or closed network format.”

“To meet strict requirements of government and public agencies, we will offer a highly customizable and fully secure solution to address their needs. Additionally, Xtend 5G will provide a robust backup connection for critical infrastructure installations that may be vulnerable due to geographical location.”

Antonio Franchi, ESA Head of the 5G/6G NTN Programme Office, “We believe hybrid communication technologies that integrate satellite, 5G NTN and mobile networks will play an important role in future connectivity ecosystems. ESA is interested in supporting private sector companies that can enhance ground segments for future satellite systems in Europe and boost regional capacity with comprehensive, dual-use technology and highly dependable connectivity. We are pleased to support Forsway in this unique project with funding, guidance, and expertise.”

Posted in Comms, International, Press Release, Space | No Comments »

Embracing the Future with Advanced AI and UAV Technology – Made in Wales Dragon Mk3 D-25

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

Together with our partners, UAVE Ltd, we continue to expand our range of British-designed and manufactured drones.

Consistent with the company policy of CANEI, (Continuous And Never Ending Innovation) we have test flown and confirmed a new heavy lift wing for the Mk3 D-15 to increase payload capacity to 25 kilos. The D-25.

“The D-25 is identical to the long-established highly reliable Mk3 D-15, which has flown many hundreds of hours. The new D-25 with a larger wingspan of 4.65m has delivered on our expectations.

“Waiting in the wings is also a further spial development from our design and engineering teams, to focus on a twin-enginefurther enhanced D-50 aircraft. This would have a payload capacity of 50 kg and full redundancy across all aircraft systems” explained Philip Slater, MD.

In 1999, BCB in Cardiff designed and made its first VTOL (Vertical Take-off and Landing) micro drone and patented Sense and Avoid Technology so UAVs could be safely flown indoors.

Separately, in 2007, UAVE conducted its airworthiness demonstration flight of the Prion MK3 for the CAA. Thislong-flight endurance fixed-wing drone aircraft has now been operating BVLOS at West Wales Airport and multiple other UK and international locations as a MALE (Medium Altitude, Long Endurance) UAV, long-range aircraft; the Prion Mk3 or, for defence clients, the Dragon15 (D-15).

BCB and UAVE, two sovereign-owned, British manufacturing SMEs, joined forces in 2023 to fully engage with UK defence, border and blue light forces and deliver a platform with a global reach of this sovereign strategic capability

The design brief for the D-15 was to ensure that the aircraft should have a capacity of 55 litres of payload space and 15 kilos of payload, be a long-range effector, 1,000 km one-way, and most importantly be able to adapt and fit multiple sensors and payloads/payload agnostic to integrate with future new technologies which become available as required. To date, this spiral development has now seen over 26 differing payloads, including tracking, laser designators, EW, telecoms rebroadcast, and surveying equipment integrated into the D-15 in addition to routine ISTAR capability. All of the aircraft’s critical supply components are manufactured in the UK.

www.bcbin.com

Posted in International, Press Release, UAS | No Comments »

5.11 Releases New Everyday Carry Offerings for Fall 2024

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

Costa Mesa, Calif. (Nov. 18, 2024) – 5.11®, the global innovator of purpose-built apparel, footwear and gear todayannounced the launch of its latest Everyday Carry (EDC) offerings in time for fall and holiday shopping season. Designed to meet the needs of both tactical professionals and everyday adventurers, this new collection includes a range of versatile tools, accessories, and apparel that are engineered to provide maximum utility, comfort, and style, ensuring that users are always equipped and ready for the demands of their day.

“The EDC line is designed to empower our customers, whether they’re out in the field or navigating daily life,” said Troy Brown, CEO of 5.11. “We understand the importance of gear that performs under pressure, and this collection reflects our dedication to providing dependable solutions for every situation.”

Deploy TL-USB

Deploy PL-USB

Deploy K-USB

The 5.11 Deploy TL-USB, PL-USB, and K-USB lights are compact and versatile lighting solutions built for ideal peace of mind. The Deploy TL-USB ($80) is the largest of the trio, delivering 1000 lumens of powerful brightness for more demanding situations. The Deploy PL-USB ($60) offers a slimmer profile with 300 lumens, making it a great pocket-sized option for quick, reliable lighting. The smallest of the group, the Deploy K-USB ($30), is a keychain-sized flashlight offering 150 lumens of light in an ultra-portable form. All three models feature rechargeable USB-C functionality, durable weather-resistant construction, and multiple lighting modes, ensuring dependability in a wide range of environments. Whether you need maximum visibility or a more compact everyday solution, the Deploy series has a reliable lighting tool for any scenario. All Deploy lights are offered in black, and the Deploy PL-USB and K-USB are also available in ranger green.

Response XR1T

Response XR1C

Response XR1P

Made for high-end, professional performance, the Response XR1 line offers multiple levels of lights designed to meet the varying needs of professionals in high-pressure environments. All three models offer powerful illumination in a compact form, making them ideal for law enforcement, military personnel, and first responders.

The Response XR1T ($75) is the largest of the trio, offering enhanced grip and durability, while the Response XR1C ($65)is more compact than the XR1T, perfect for every day without compromising on performance. Despite being a mostly polymer construction, the Response XR1P ($50) strikes a balance between size and power, offering high performance in a portable form. All models feature multiple lighting modes, are constructed from rugged, impact- and weather-resistant materials, and are dual-fuel 18650 rechargeable compatible.The XR1 series provides reliable, long-lasting lighting in demanding conditions. All Response XR1 lights are offered in black, and the Response XR1P is additionally offered in orange.

Fix It Gift Set

Everyday Gift Set (limited edition)

Covert Gift Set

The 5.11 Fix It, Everyday, and Covert Gift Sets are curated collections designed to provide practical solutions for various lifestyles, making them ideal gifts for outdoor enthusiasts, tactical professionals, and those who pride being prepared every day. The Fix It Gift Set ($30) features a Base 1SF keychain knife, Hardpoint MK1 carabiner, and an EDT Multitool, making it the perfect compact toolset for quick repairs and adjustments. The limited edition Everyday Gift Set ($40) is a knife set featuring both the Icarus DP, a 3.5” blade, and the Base 3DP frame lock knife, a smaller 2.75” blade for added convenience. The Covert Gift Set ($50) is tailored for discretion and style. This set offers low-profile, technical items for users who value both functionality and subtlety. It includes the Icarus RT Mini with a 2.8” reverse tanto blade, a Hardpoint M1+MD two-piece removable carabiner and docking system, an EDT Hex mini screwdriver, and a Steel Jacket Money Clip. Each set reflects 5.11’s commitment to durability, reliability, and versatility, making them thoughtful gifts or stocking stuffers for anyone who values high-quality, mission-ready gear.

Endo.K Insert

The Endo.K Insert ($15) is designed for seeking optimal knee comfort without sacrificing mobility. Engineered with a lightweight and durable design, the ENDO.K Insert offers superior breathability and cushioning, making it ideal for prolonged wear in demanding environments. Its anatomical shape with silicon grip print ensures a secure fit within 5.11 pants and functional gear, while the flexible construction allows unrestricted movement during dynamic activities.

For more information about 5.11 and its full line up of product offerings, or to find a 5.11 store near you, visit www.511tactical.com.

Posted in Knives, Lights, Press Release | No Comments »

2024 NDIA Future Forces Conference Poster #6 – Signature On Target Round

Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

The S.O.T. round is a modular line of ammunition, housing an energetic payload, it is capable of displaying a distinct flash and smoke signature upon bullet impact.

This technology affords operators the unique ability to precisely identify the impact location of their rounds without informing the enemy of their origin.

As always, the POC data is on the poster for those interested in learning more.

Posted in Ammo, NDIA | No Comments »