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Archive for January, 2025

Serco Wins $247m US Army Contract to Support Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) System

Friday, January 17th, 2025

Serco, the international provider of critical government services, has been awarded a new contract to support soldier readiness and performance within the US Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) System.  The contract starts immediately and has an eight-month base period plus four one-year option periods.  The estimated total value is $247 million (£203 million) if all options are exercised.

Serco and its contract partners will support the US Army’s initiative to enhance soldier readiness, support optimal physical and non-physical performance, significantly reduce injury rates, and streamline rehabilitation post-injury.  Serco will provide training support to 45 US Army brigades at 15 locations across the United States.

Serco supports the entire career lifecycle of military personnel.  Our broad range of capabilities include recruitment, onboarding, training, development, health services, assistance transitioning back into civilian life and veteran support programmes.

This new contract follows three other recently announced US defence contract wins:

A $193 million contract rebid to deliver transition to civilian life career training and counselling services on behalf of the Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Services Transition Assistance Program.  The contract has a 1-year base period plus four 12-month option periods.

A $97 million new five-year contract to provide programme management and business performance improvement support to Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).

A $33 million contract rebid to provide psychological health outreach support for the US Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery.  The contract has a 9-month base period and four one-year option periods.

Mark Irwin, Group Chief Executive of Serco, said:

“Serco has a long, distinguished history of supporting the armed forces around the world and this win builds on our existing strength in the defence sector.  We have a strong pipeline of further opportunities in the sector, which is now our largest sector globally.

“We are proud to support the US Army’s efforts to revolutionise how they empower and equip soldiers to take charge of their health, fitness and wellbeing.  This contract reflects our ability to support members of the Armed Forces at every stage of their career in the military, from helping governments recruit the right personnel to providing training, development, and health support during their period of service, through to supporting them in their transition as they leave the military and re-enter civilian life.

“We will continue to use our broad set of capabilities, skills and expertise to impact a better future for customers, communities and countries.”

Texas Air National Guard’s 111th Attack Squadron Named RPA Squadron of the Year

Thursday, January 16th, 2025

SAN DIEGO – 15 January 2025 – The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) presented the 2023 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Squadron of the Year Award to the 111thAttack Squadron (ATKS) of the Texas Air National Guard, Joint Base Ellington Field, Texas. The award was presented at a ceremony at Ellington Field’s Lone Star Flight Museum on January 11, 2025. The award is given annually to the Squadron that distinguishes itself through its employment of RPA in meritorious service.

The award was presented by GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue and Lt. Gen. (Ret.) David Deptula of the Mitchell Institute.

The 111th ATKS “Aces” distinguished themselves as the first Air Force MQ-9A unit to achieve full operational capability in the newly fielded Satellite Launch and Recovery system. Additionally, during Exercise Air Defender, they executed the first Satellite Launch and Recovery operation at a civilian European airfield.

“I couldn’t be prouder of all the nominated units for their outstanding performance in 2023,” said Blue. “But the 111th Attack Squadron truly set the bar, achieving a flawless 100 percent execution rate. Their hard work supported eight named operations across three continents, nine operating areas, and six launch and recovery sites. That kind of dedication and precision doesn’t just happen—it’s a testament to their incredible leadership, teamwork and commitment.”

The Aces have paved the way for future RPA operations and demonstrated the ability of highly trained airmen equipped with cutting-edge combat capabilities to defend this great nation.

“It was an intense training ambition, but the 111th led the United States Air Force, under the unit’s own initiative, to be the first squadron to achieve full operational capability with the MQ-9A’s new Satellite Launch and Recovery capability, all while maintaining an exemplary 100 percent sortie execution rate,” said Lt. Col. Nathan Rieber, 111thATKS Commander.

These accomplishments distinctly identify the Aces as the Air Force’s most outstanding RPA squadron.

Caracal USA to Exhibit at the 2025 SHOT Show in Las Vegas

Thursday, January 16th, 2025

Caracal USA will be displaying several new products for 2025 at Booth 10334 at the 2025 SHOT Show®, held at The Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, Nevada, Jan. 21 – 24, 2025.

Nampa, Idaho (January 2025) – Caracal USA, a leading US Based manufacturer of small arms for the law enforcement and defense markets, will join 2,500 other exhibitors to showcase its 2025 product lineup in Booth 10334 at the 2025 SHOT Show®, to be held at The Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, Nevada, Jan. 21 – 24, 2025.

“We are excited to return to the SHOT Show and showcase our innovative product lineup for 2025,” commented Jeffrey Spalding, president and CEO of Caracal USA. “From cutting-edge handguns to precision rifles, Caracal USA continues to deliver reliable, high-performance solutions that meet the needs of law enforcement, military, and civilian users. This year’s new offerings demonstrate our ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in small arms manufacturing.”

On display at Booth 10334 will be the Enhanced F pistol. This striker-fired, polymer-framed handgun with 18+1 capacity is designed for self-defense, concealed-carry, law enforcement, and military users. Caracals’ signature low-profile and reduced-mass slide design is combined with an intuitive grip, allowing the shooter to feel less recoil when shooting.

New products for 2025 include the CMP9 9x19mm fully ambidextrous semi-auto pistol and the CSR 308 and 338 long-range precision sniper rifles. Caracal USA’s new products will become available to dealers throughout 2025.

Caracal’s CAR816 A2 5.56×45 NATO gas operated short stroke piston rifles, the CAR814 A2 and Patrol rifles, as well as the VERSUS™ Competition Rifle, will also be on display and are currently available for fulfillment.

CSR 308 and 338 long-range precision sniper rifles.

The SHOT Show is owned by NSSF®— the Firearm Industry Trade Association and is restricted to the shooting, hunting, and outdoor trade professionals and commercial buyers and sellers of military, law enforcement, and tactical products and services ONLY. The SHOT Show is not open to the general consuming public (e.g., private visitors, hunters, sports shooters, members of hunting and sports shooting clubs, etc.). Proof of professional affiliation is required.

Winchester Supreme Optics Debuts Thermal Optic Line At SHOT Show 2025

Thursday, January 16th, 2025

LOGAN, UT (January 20, 2025)—Winchester Supreme Optics is proud to announce the launch of its new line of thermal hunting sights. The entire line of Winchester Supreme Optics will be on display at booth #72349 in the Caesars Forum at SHOT Show 2025.

The Winchester Supreme Optics Thermal Hunting Sights combine advanced thermal imaging with exceptional value that deliver precision and reliability in diverse environmental conditions. Featuring high-performance sensors, these optics detect heat signatures through smoke, fog, and complete darkness, and deliver sharp, customizable visuals with multiple color palettes and reticle options. Built to be lightweight and rugged to appeal to serious hunters while maintaining long term durability and functionality.

The Winchester Supreme Optics Thermal Hunting Sights feature onboard recording, 50Hz frame rate, and a IP67 waterproof rating. They are also powered by a 12?m Pixel sensor that supports maximum clarity and extended battery life that projects the image to a SXGA 1280×1024 display.

The legendary Winchester brand continues its legacy of delivering best-quality products that endure the harshest outdoor conditions and meet the evolving needs of its customers. This new offering from Winchester Supreme Optics is backed by a 5year Limited Warranty.

THSX 640 Thermal Hunting Sight: MSRP $2,499

– 640×512 VOx Sensor

– 50mm Objective Lens

– 1865 Meter Detection Range

– 720 grams

– .300 Win Mag recoil rating

THSX 384 Thermal Hunting Sight: MSRP $1,649

– 384×288 VOx Sensor

– 35mm Objective Lens

– 1150 Meter Detection Range

– 680 grams

– .300 Win Mag Recoil Rating

THSD 384 Thermal Hunting Scope: MSRP $1,899

– 384×288 VOx Sensor

– 35mm Objective Lens

– 1150 Meter Detection Range

– 800 grams

– .300 Win Mag Recoil Rating

Retailers looking to become authorized Winchester Supreme Optics dealers can apply here: winchesteroptics.com/Dealers

To learn more about the complete product offerings from Winchester Supreme Optics, please visit winchesteroptics.com

Tikka T3x Ace Rifle Series

Thursday, January 16th, 2025

I’ve long been a fan of the Tikka line of rifles which combines precision, quality, and great value. Manufactured by Sako, the Tikka T3x Ace Game is the latest addition to the line up which launches during SHOT Show 2025.

The Tikka T3x/T1x Ace rifle series is here to revolutionize precision rifle shooting by o?ering a factory-built solution designed specifically for PRS Factory Division competitors and NRL competition.

There will be three different rifle models in Ace rifle series. Tikka T3x Ace Target for long-range shooting and competitions. The second model is Tikka T1x Ace Target. This is a long-awaited rimfire rifle, with an identical chassis to T3x Ace Target. The third model is Tikka T3x Ace Game, it’s a little bit lighter rifle with a shorter barrel and multiple caliber options. This opens many opportunities to use these rifles for di?erent types of competitions based on competition rules and user preferences.

The Tikka T3x/T1x Ace is crafted to provide a seamless experience right out of the box, eliminating the need for aftermarket modifications while delivering outstanding precision, performance, and versatility. For those passionate about the pursuit of accuracy and excellence, this rifle is the perfect companion on and of the range. Every aspect of the rifle has been carefully engineered to ensure versatility, durability, and accuracy. This rifle series has two unique features, it has an interchangeable magwell that allows for the use of various magazine types in the rifle. The second one is that the stock is compatible for all T3, T3x and T1x barreled actions. This makes Tikka Ace the most compatible Tikka rifle yet, seamlessly integrating with both new and older models for unmatched versatility. This rifle symbolizes adaptability, allowing you to upgrade your current setup effortlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned sport shooter or a hunting enthusiast, this Tikka rifle ensures superior performance across a variety of conditions and uses.

According to Taneli Pokkinen Product Manager Commercial Rifles, “The Tikka Ace rifles were created with one purpose in mind: to help shooters achieve precision and performance without compromise.

Whether you’re competing in PRS Factory Division or challenging yourself to push the limits of accuracy, the Ace rifles o?er everything you need straight from the factory”

Experience unparalleled precision with Tikka T3x Ace Target

The rifle designed with a passion for perfection. Its ergonomic design ensures comfort, while its durable construction guarantees reliability in any condition. T3x Ace Target is crafted to meet the highest standards of precision and performance. The rifle’s heavy barrel is engineered to eliminate vibration and withstand heat, ensuring consistent accuracy during shooting stages. This design optimizes bullet velocity, providing flatter trajectories and better performance, especially over long distances.

The rifle’s adjustable rear stock enhances shooter comfort and stability through a personalized fit. It features customizable length of pull, cheek rest, and recoil pad adjustments. The skeletonized rear stock supports additional weights for increased stability, while an adjustable, ambidextrous thumb rest o?ers optimal control and performance. The standard pistol grip is adjustable in angle and position, ensuring a comfortable shooting position and optimal distance to the trigger. The grip is AR-compatible, allowing for customizable options.

Ace Target also features a high-capacity, 10-round metallic magazine designed for extended action with fewer reloads. This magazine ensures a seamless, uninterrupted shooting session, maintaining reliable feeding and structure even if dropped. The magazine release button is integrated into the trigger guard for intuitive changes.

Equipped with multiple advanced handguard attachment points like M-LOK, 20 MOA Picatinny, and Arca-Swiss RRS® rail, the rifle allows for versatile accessory mounting. Users can easily attach bipods, tripods, flashlights, and other tactical equipment, providing flexibility for various shooting needs and scenarios. This also makes it possible to attach additional weights, enhancing stability and performance. The rifle is compatible with a wide range of both proprietary and third-party accessories, ensuring users can fully customize their setup to meet specific requirements and preferences. This extensive compatibility enhances the rifle’s versatility and performance.

Ace Target features a two-stage adjustable trigger, providing optimal ergonomics for di?erent hand sizes. With an Allen key, users can adjust the weight-of-pull for a perfect fit. The trigger unit, assembled in a precisely machined aluminium frame, offers match-grade engagement. The two-stage feature allows for precise shooting by dividing the pull into two stages, helping shooters know exactly when the rifle will fire.

There is optional Cerakote coating which o?ers superior protection against corrosion and wear, enhancing its longevity and providing a sleek, professional look. This durable finish ensures the rifle can withstand harsh environmental conditions and rough handling.

Tikka T1x Target Rifle has redefined accuracy

Experience unmatched accuracy and reliability with the Tikka T1x Target rifle. This rifle o?ers exceptional accuracy for both beginners and professional shooters. It is perfect for honing your skills and mastering every shot and take part for rimfire rifle competitions.

The Tikka T1x Target rifle is built on the same chassis as the T3x Ace Target, making it the perfect pair for both practice and competition. This shared platform ensures that when you practice with the T1x, transitioning to the T3x Ace Target for competitions feels seamless and intuitive. The consistent feel and ergonomics between the two models allow shooters to develop muscle memory and precision that translates directly from practice to performance.

The Tikka T1x Target rifle stands out with its 45-degree bolt opening angle, which ensures easy and smooth operation. This design allows for faster and more e?cient cycling, reducing the e?ort needed to load cartridges.

The rifle’s cross-over barrel is another distinctive feature, designed to enhance accuracy and reduce vibration. The free-floating, cold hammer-forged barrel eliminates vibration and withstands heat, ensuring precise shooting. It is always equipped with a muzzle thread, adding to its versatility.

Master the field with Tikka T3x Ace Game

Designed for both hunting and sport shooting, the Tikka T3x Ace Game rifle o?ers unmatched accuracy and adaptability. With a balanced design and precision engineering, it’s your go-to choice for success in the field and at the range.

The Tikka T3x Ace Game rifle is built on the same modular chassis as the T3x Ace Target, making it an ideal companion for both tactical precision shooting and hunting. The di?erence is that T3x Ace Game has a fluted medium contour barrel, which is light enough to make the rifle easy to carry during long hunts or competitions, with caliber options ranging from .223 Rem to .300 Win Mag. The rifle also features a 5/8”-24 muzzle thread.

Whether on the range or in the field, PRS competitors and long-range shooters alike will find in the T3x/T1x Ace rifles they can depend on. With the Tikka Ace rifles, precision shooting becomes more accessible than ever. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or a passionate long-range shooter, this rifle eliminates barriers and delivers unparalleled performance in every shot. By combining versatility, innovative design, and a focus on precision, the Tikka Ace o?ers an exceptional solution for those who demand the best from their equipment.

www.tikka.global

5.11 Unveils First-Ever Feature-Rich Blazer in Exclusive Limited Release

Thursday, January 16th, 2025

Costa Mesa, Calif. (Jan. 15, 2025) – 5.11®, the global innovator in purpose-built apparel, footwear and gear, is excited to unveil the highly anticipated 5.11 Founder’s Jacket: the first-ever technical blazer designed in partnership with clandestine agencies set to redefine what professional apparel can do, combining C-suite style with features built for life’s most demanding missions.

“The 5.11 Founder’s Jacket sits at the perfect intersection of style, function, and innovation,” explains Troy Brown, CEO of 5.11.“This blazer was created for professionals who need to blend in with confidence. Whether navigating high-stakes executive protection, stepping into the boardroom, or looking sharp while on the road, the 5.11 Founder’s Jacket challenges what’s possible in the world of functional apparel.”

The development of the 5.11 Founder’s Jacket has long been a visionary project for Francisco J. Morales, 5.11’s co-founder, former CEO, and current Executive Chairman. Known for pushing boundaries in technical innovation, Morales drew on decades of experience in the industry and poured his vision and expertise into creating this jacket in partnership with the 5.11 Product Team and world-class teams of executive security professionals, representatives of government agencies, and seasoned international travelers – implementing features with their use occasions in mind. The result is a performance blazer designed for ultimate versatility: a garment you can keep rolled up in a bag and, on a moment’s notice, put on to look professional. Importantly, this blazer is engineered for convenience without compromise, as it is fully home-washable and ready to go back into service without sacrificing quality or performance.

This new release not only reflects Francisco’s commitment to excellence but also underscores 5.11’s enduring mission to enhance the capabilities of professionals worldwide and provide Purpose-Built Gear™ that meets the highest standards for durability, functionality, comfort, and performance.

Reflecting on the new jacket, Morales says that, “as someone who has been deeply involved in the design and innovation process throughout my years at 5.11, the release of the 5.11 Founder’s Jacket is incredibly special. It represents the culmination of our dedication to crafting quality gear but also tells the story of our brand’s journey. I’m excited to share it with our community of professionals and enthusiasts who inspire everything we do as a brand.”

Behind its sharp exterior, the 5.11 Founder’s Jacket is loaded with powerful technical features, including elastic MOLLE webbing, drop pockets, zippered internal chest pockets for secure storage, hidden key pockets designed with security in mind, and two interior phone pockets featuring 5.11’s Ready Loop™ — keeping any essentials secure and close at hand.

The 5.11 Founder’s Jacket’s wrinkle-resistant fabric makes it the perfect fit for business travelers, while its stretch material ensures comfort from the red-eye there to the return trip home. Pair it with slacks for a formal look, or dress it down with a tee and sneakers. The tailorability, DWR finish for stain resistance, and ease of at-home launder makes the 5.11 Founder’s Jacket a seamless addition to any wardrobe, delivering the style you deserve with the substance you demand.

Key Features:

Fabric Composition: 89% polyester, 11% elastane for a flexible, comfortable fit.

Lining: 100% nylon dobby for durability and abrasion resistance.

Pockets: Two zippered internal chest pockets, hidden key pockets and dual phone pockets with Ready Loop™.

Price: $160 Regular, $194 Tall

Sizes: Available in Dark Navy and Black, from Small to 3XL, in Regular and Tall.

In this first, exclusive release, limited units of the 5.11 Founder’s Jacket are available online now at www.511Tactical.com/Founders-Jacket.html. Limited quantities of the jacket will also be available at the 5.11 Las Vegas retail store next week.

For more information about 5.11 and its full collection of products, or to find a 5.11 store near you, visit www.511tactical.com.

Tomahawk Performance Welcomes New Director of Design, Vic Kang

Thursday, January 16th, 2025

Nashville, January 2025 – Tomahawk Performance is excited to announce the appointment of Vic Kang as the company’s new Director of Design. Kang’s addition to the team comes at a pivotal moment for the company, which is expanding its distribution across North America and Europe and driving forward with several innovative projects.

With a background in industrial design and a deep passion for crafting purpose-driven products, Kang brings a unique approach to problem-solving and product development. Over the course of his 20-year career, Kang has become a recognized expert in the outdoor apparel and gear industry, having worked at leading brands such as Arc’teryx, Patagonia, Lululemon, and YETI. His expertise spans a wide range of technical design, including a specialized focus on soft goods.

Before joining Tomahawk, Kang served as Design Director at YETI, where he built the soft goods design team and center from the ground up. Under his leadership, the team grew from four to fourteen members, and Kang played a key role in shaping the company’s product development, process, and structure, specifically in the creation of high-performance, technical soft goods.

At Tomahawk Performance, Kang will play a critical role in scaling the design and development team in alignment with the company’s medium- and long-term growth plans. His efforts will focus on attracting top-tier talent and driving innovation in product design, with a particular emphasis on delivering solutions that address the unique challenges faced by warfighters in demanding tactical and outdoor environments.

“I am thrilled to join Tomahawk Performance,” said Kang. “The opportunity to collaborate with such a talented team and leverage their vast knowledge and experience is invaluable. Together, we’ll develop gear that not only supports critical missions but helps shape the future of tactical design.”

Kang’s approach to design emphasizes creating meaningful, functional solutions that solve real-world problems. His ethos aligns seamlessly with Tomahawk Performance’s mission of delivering high-quality, mission-specific products for professionals in the field.

As the Director of Design, Kang will lead efforts to innovate and refine the company’s offerings, ensuring that every product delivers exceptional performance and functionality. With a hands-on approach to both design and problem-solving, Kang is committed to pushing the boundaries of product development to meet the evolving needs of Tomahawk’s customers.

For more information, visit tomahawkperformance.com.

Sneak Peek – Safran DSI IronSnake Thermal Reflex Sight

Thursday, January 16th, 2025

During next week’s SHOT Show in Las Vegas Safran Defense & Space Inc is going to officially unveil their new thermal Fused red dot sight, dubbed IronSnake.

Designed for assault rifles and light ­machine guns, the IronSnake reflex sight offers a clear direct view channel ­ enhanced by high contrast thermal imagery and a configurable digital reticle.

Day or night, IronSnake can be used to identify and engage targets.

Developed in France in collaboration with BERTIN Technologies, IronSnake offers optimized ergonomics and compactness thanks to a combination of the latest technologies from France’s leading players in their field.

See IronSnake in the Safran booth #31108.