May 2025 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for May, 2025

US Army Publishes ATP 3-01.81, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) Operations

Friday, May 30th, 2025

The US Army has just published ATP 3-01.81, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) Operations (MAY25).

Army Techniques Publication (ATP) 3-01.81 Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) Operations provides operational considerations for defending against unmanned air threats for multi-domain operations.

This ATP offers planning and integration guidance for counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) platforms in a layered defense, along with both active and passive defense techniques for countering the unmanned aircraft system (UAS) threat in various areas of operations. This ATP also provides guidance on how to plan for, and incorporate, C-UAS Soldier tasks into unit training events.

The principal audience for ATP 3-01.81 is brigade and below commanders and staff, junior leaders, platoons, and individual squads who employ combined arms planning techniques within their operations (refer to ATP 3-01.8). Leaders in all organizations can benefit from C-UAS techniques prescribed in this publication.

Trainers and educators will also use this publication to support the development and introduction of combined arms for air defense into existing curricula. Other services and joint organizations may use this manual to gain insight into Army air and missile defense (AMD) operations for C-UAS.

Download your copy at armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN43877-ATP_3-01.81-000-WEB-1.

Posted in Army, UAS | Comments Off on US Army Publishes ATP 3-01.81, Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) Operations

Special Tactics Enterprise Transitions as 24 SOW Flag Furled

Friday, May 30th, 2025

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —

The 24th Special Operations Wing furled its flag May 16, 2025, marking the transition of the organizational structure of the Special Tactics enterprise, the latest change in Air Force Special Operations Command’s commitment to adapting to the evolving demands of the strategic environment.

“The furling of this flag represents not an end, but another transition point for both the Special Tactics community and AFSOC,” said Lt. Gen. Michael Conley, commander Air Force Special Operations Command. “I truly believe that the best days of Special Tactics lie ahead, not behind us. Special Tactics remains vital to AFSOC and our Nation.”

Activated in 2012 as the ST functional wing, the 24 SOW was initially designed to maximize the effectiveness and advocacy of AFSOC’s air-to-ground integration force. However, the operational environment has evolved significantly over the past 13 years, impacting the role of ST within AFSOC.

“The 24th Special Operations Wing has not ended. It has simply passed into each of you. Wherever you go next, carry it forward. Lead with the quiet strength that built this wing. Fight with the heart that made it great. Honor those who cannot stand beside us today,” said Col. Dan Magruder, outgoing 24 SOW commander.

While the demand for small, self-sustaining, and distributed forces – the attributes inherent to ST units – are more valuable than ever, the integration of ST into the larger AFSOC enterprise has matured considerably. ST leaders, both officer and enlisted, now consistently fill key leadership positions across the command, SOF enterprise and joint force.

“This isn’t a division of labor. This is a unity of effort as we transition to the next phase,” said Col Joseph Gross, 720th Special Tactics Group commander. “I can’t wait to see the next two years as we move out with a new [organization],” he added.

The 720 STG will now report directly to AFSOC headquarters continuing to provide operational and administrative oversite of the 2-series special tactics squadrons, as well as the Special Tactics Training Squadron which is responsible for combat mission qualification for all ST operators.

“The evolving strategic landscape and advancing adversary capabilities underscore the invaluable nature of Special Tactics’ skills,” said Conley. “Innovation, ingenuity, boldness, and valor have been defining attributes of the ST community since its inception and are critical as AFSOC adapts to meet the challenges ahead.”

By AFSOC Public Affairs

AFSOC Public Affairs

Posted in AFSW, Air Force, Guest Post, SOF | 2 Comments »

Base Operations Selected by the US Air Force to Provide AI-Driven Security Intelligence for Mission Resilience and Force Protection

Thursday, May 29th, 2025

The Direct-to-Phase II contract was awarded to identify, assess, predict and counter emerging threats, including Small Unarmed Aerial Systems incursions, when operating in dynamic environments with limited intelligence and evolving adversary tactics.

WASHINGTON, May 27, 2025 — Base Operations has been selected by AFWERX for a Direct-to-Phase II contract focused on decoding local threats and providing actionable insights to safeguard the global operations of the Department of the Air Force (DAF). The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and eliminating bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018 which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded and now on May 27th 2025, Base Operations will take the next step in its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America.

US Air Force picks Base Operations to decode local threats and safeguard global operations with AI-driven intelligence.

“In an era of evolving threats and rapid transformation in federal procurement, sourcing cutting-edge solutions from U.S. startups is essential to maintaining operational readiness and protecting the warfighter. Base Operations is proud to be selected by the Air Mobility Command of the Department of Air Force to deliver advanced, AI-powered threat intelligence. Our platform enhances force protection by anticipating and mitigating risks around critical installations, safeguarding personnel, and effectively countering adversarial foreign espionage. By equipping decision-makers with AI-driven insights, we help strengthen operational resilience and ensure mission success in complex and dynamic environments.”

– Cory Siskind, Founder & CEO at Base Operations

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.

About Base Operations
Base Operations decodes the world’s threat landscape into actionable security insights that enable organizations to protect their people, assets, and operations. Identify and assess threats, manage risk across your footprint, and make data-driven decisions using granular, street-level intelligence at global scale. Learn more at baseoperations.com.

Posted in Admin | Comments Off on Base Operations Selected by the US Air Force to Provide AI-Driven Security Intelligence for Mission Resilience and Force Protection

Gastops Receives Investment from RTX for Next Generation Monitoring Technologies

Thursday, May 29th, 2025

Investment made possible by Canadian Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy (ITB)

OTTAWA, ON, May 28, 2025 – Gastops Ltd. is announcing a joint agreement under Canada’s Industrial and Technology Benefits (ITB) policy for a multi-million-dollar investment from RTX. The funding will support a research and development program to advance the next generation of oil debris monitoring (ODM) system technology and future technologies for oil and fuel monitoring for Pratt & Whitney military engines. Pratt & Whitney is an RTX business.

“We are extremely pleased to work with RTX on the development of next generation monitoring technologies,” said Shaun Horning, President and CEO of Gastops. “The ITB investment from RTX’s Raytheon and engineering collaboration with Pratt & Whitney are critical components to the success of this cutting-edge technology. This investment will facilitate Gastops to continue its goal of Canadian innovation and to expand our technology capabilities.”

Gastops has been enabling Pratt & Whitney’s advanced diagnostics and engine monitoring solutions with MetalSCAN ODM sensors since their introduction to the F119 engine, which powers the F-22 Raptor, in the early 1990’s. Since then, MetalSCAN technology has been included in other major Pratt & Whitney engine developments, and discussions are ongoing about expanding the collaboration to integrate Gastops’ next generation technologies into additional military engine programs.

“It’s now more important than ever to build Canada’s defence industry,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions. “This multi-million-dollar investment by RTX to Canada’s Gastops Ltd. will advance innovation within Canada’s defence sector while supporting economic growth and creating high value jobs for Canadians.”

www.Gastops.com

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Gastops Receives Investment from RTX for Next Generation Monitoring Technologies

Nomad Releases Rendezvous Pants and Scrape Shorts

Thursday, May 29th, 2025

CHARLESTON, SC. (May 29, 2025) – Nomad Outdoor added to its growing line of popular lifestyle clothing with the release of cotton canvas Rendezvous pants and lightweight nylon Scrape shorts.

Rendezvous Pants

Made of stretch cotton canvas, the Rendezvous pants have a soft, broken-in feel from the start. Available in solid earth-tone colors Marl and Overland Trek, the Rendezvous pants offer versatile 6-pocket design for ample storage and EDC carry space without looking like cargo pants.

Rendezvous pants give all-day comfort and are perfect for everyday wear, chores around the property, or an evening out on the town. They are available in men’s sizes from waist 28″ to 42″ and inseams 30″ to 34″.

Rendezvous pants retail for $80 per pair.

Scrape Shorts

Scrape shorts are made of a lightweight nylon and spandex blend to be breathable and comfortable on hot summer days, while still being durable. Secured cargo pockets and back pockets keep your everyday-essentials safe, and DWR water resistant coating keeps the wearer dry and helps repel stains. Scrape shorts come in an attractive shade of green called Moss. They have 9” inseams and are available in men’s sizes from waist sizes 28” to 42”.

Scrape shorts retail for $60 per pair.

Both the Rendezvous and Scrape shorts can be paired perfectly with the newly-released Hollis and Huntley button-down shirts for a classy, casual look that also shows your passion for hunting whitetails and turkeys, or spending time in the great American outdoors.

To learn more about both the Rendezvous and Scrape shorts, and the rest of their hunting and lifestyle clothing visit www.nomadoutdoor.com.

Posted in Clothing, Off-Duty, Press Release | Comments Off on Nomad Releases Rendezvous Pants and Scrape Shorts

Revolutionize Glock Ergonomics with Patent-Pending Reduced Angle Backstrap

Thursday, May 29th, 2025

Innovative collaboration delivers enhanced ergonomics and control for mission-critical Glock ® users worldwide. The new product has been authorized for duty use by more than five police departments and is already in use by certain members of the United States’ premier protective and law enforcement agencies.

LOWELL, MICHIGAN (30 MAY, 2025) KIRAL DEFENSE™ today announces the official release of a patent-pending Reduced Angle and Shock-Absorbing Backstrap for most Glock® pistols and a direct collaboration with LOK Grips® to distribute the product worldwide.

Engineered to meet the demanding needs of military and law enforcement professionals, this cutting-edge backstrap addresses a long-standing limitation of Glock ergonomics: its steep, often awkward grip angle. By reducing the grip angle to more closely match a 1911, the Kiral Defense Reduced Angle Backstrap improves pointability, reduces wrist strain, and enhances weapon control during high-stress engagements.

“Glock pistols are known worldwide for combat-proven reliability, not for ergonomics,” said Neal Brace, designer of the product and owner of Kiral Defense.

“The Reduced Angle Backstrap makes a Glock point like a 1911 and, for most people, makes it a lot easier to shoot accurately in both slow and rapid fire. We are proud to have collaborated with law enforcement tactical team members from the two largest police departments in western Michigan to refine the design, and I am even happier to say that it is already authorized for duty with those departments and several others,” continued Mr. Brace.

“Being able to partner with LOK Grips for worldwide distribution of this invention is a dream come true, as I can’t think of a more trusted name in the industry that is dedicated toward improving pistol ergonomics.”

Manufactured entirely in the U.S.A. from abrasion-resistant nylon and paired with a precision-ground stainless steel pin, the Reduced Angle Backstrap offers a seamless drop-in fit for Gen 1-5 Glock frames. Two versions are available for larger pistols: one with an injection-molded shock-absorbing rubber insert for extra stability and comfort during extended range sessions and that is perfect for medium and large hands, and one that is thinner, omits the rubber insert, and is suitable for all hand sizes due to its shorter trigger reach. The model for G43X and G48 micro carry pistols increases the trigger reach to mimic a Glock 19 and provides substantially greater trigger control for better accuracy while also offering an extended beavertail to benefit those that tend to suffer from slide bite. Matching laser cut grip tape panels are also available.

“We are excited to provide shooters worldwide with a unique and low-cost solution to an age-old problem with Glocks,” said Jayson Dekmar, owner of LOK Grips, a U.S.A.-based manufacturer of premium pistol grips and accessories.

“The Kiral Defense Reduced Angle Backstrap meets the level of quality, comfort, and performance that our customers have come to expect from LOK Grips, so it made sense to become the worldwide distributor for this product line. Since it does not permanently modify the pistol and is inexpensive, the backstrap is one of those products that we believe has mass appeal, especially for our law enforcement customers and those that must carry a pistol for personal protection. I never liked how a Glock pointed until I put one of these on. You have to feel the difference to believe it. It’s an amazing improvement for people who don’t like the factory Glock grip angle.”

This partnership brings together two Michigan-based companies committed to elevating pistol performance without compromising holster compatibility or reliability. By focusing on subtle yet impactful modifications, the new Kiral Defense – LOK Grips alliance delivers an ergonomic advantage that can be felt from the first draw.

As of the time this press release was submitted, the Kiral Defense Reduced Angle Backstrap was tested, approved for duty use, and adopted by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Kent County (Michigan) Sheriff’s Office, the Grand Rapids (Michigan) Police Department, the Wyoming (Michigan) Police Department, the Ottawa County (Michigan) Sheriff’s Office, the Dowagiac (Michigan) Police Department, and Metro Vancouver (Canada) Transit Police (training unit authorized, department-wide authorization pending). In addition, the Kiral Defense Reduced Angle Backstrap has been confirmed in use by members of several ofthe United States’ premier federal protective and law enforcement agencies and is being evaluated for official procurement.

A free product sample was provided to Nightwood Guns for review after meeting at SHOT Show 2025. No compensation was provided and, as of this press release, no affiliation exists between Kiral Defense / LOK Grips and Nightwood Guns. The video review is available here:

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To experience the improved ergonomics firsthand, visit either company’s website or contact your local LOK Grips® dealer.

CONTACT:

KIRAL DEFENSE

www.kiraldefense.com

support@kiraldefense.com

616-226-3551

Lowell, Michigan, U.S.A. LOK GRIPS

lokgrips.com

sales@lokgrips.com

616-389-0666

Wyoming, Michigan, U.S.A.

“GLOCK” is a federally registered trademark of GLOCK, Inc. and is one of many trademarks owned by GLOCK, Inc. or GLOCK Ges.m.b.H. Kiral Defense is not affiliated in any manner with or otherwise endorsed by GLOCK, Inc. or GLOCK Ges.m.b.H. The use of “GLOCK” is merely to advertise the sale of GLOCK pistols, parts, or components. For genuine GLOCK, Inc. and GLOCK Ges.m.b.H products and parts visit glock.com.

About Kiral Defense:

A sister brand to Noisefighters® (a trusted name in the night vision and hearing protection accessories markets and in business since 2016), Kiral Defense is a U.S.-based manufacturer focused on unique firearms accessories. Both brands are owned and operated by a service disabled U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan.

About LOK Grips:

LOK Grips is a U.S.-based manufacturer known for precision-crafted grips and accessories made from advanced materials. Trusted by professionals and competitive shooters alike since 2014, LOK Grips products combine high performance with eye-catching designs. Grip tight. Stand Firm. Hold Your Own.

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 4 Comments »

BFG Releases the MTKN! – Nano 02

Thursday, May 29th, 2025

POOLER, GA. – Blue Force Gear, Inc., the world leader in load carriage equipment innovation, launches the Micro Trauma Kit NOW! – Nano 02. The MTKN! – Nano 02 is slightly larger than the original Nano giving it the capacity of the world famous Micro Trauma Kit NOW!. Designed to hold the same fill levels as the Micro Trauma Kit NOW!, the Nano 02 is available with Essentials, PRO, and Advanced supplies or as an empty pouch ready to fill with your personal or issued medical supplies.

As with any BFG flapped pouch, it features the BLIP (Ball Loaded Index Point) pull tab that allows for positive indexing even with gloved, cold, or wet hands. By simply pulling the BLIP pull tab with a single hand, the insert can be removed rapidly to display the medical supplies held neatly in individual elastic loops.

The Nano 02 offers multiple mounting solutions – MOLLE straps or Belt loops that provide the option of mounting the pouch both vertically and horizontally. The Belt loop design is a brand-new feature from BFG, showcased for the first time on the MTKN! – Nano 02. The Belt mount features a simple, lightweight, and durable way to quickly attach the Nano 02 to any duty belt or pants belt 2” or smaller. Constructed out of BFG’s proprietary ULTRAcomp high-performance coated fabric laminate, the backer offers a stiff yet low-profile and reliable mounting solution for either horizontal or vertical carry.

The MOLLE option is the recently released patent pending two-way Helium Whisper attachment system that allows for pouch mounting in horizontal or vertical orientation. The patented Helium Whisper attachment system is the lightest and strongest MOLLE style attachment system available and is the choice of the most elite professionals.

The Micro Trauma Kit NOW! – Nano 02 is another example of innovation and forward thinking by Blue Force Gear. Those seeking a lightweight, low-profile, extremely durable medical kit with various ways to mount it should look no further than the MTKN! – Nano 02.

For more information about Blue Force Gear or any of their product offerings, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

About Blue Force Gear

Blue Force Gear designs the best weapon slings and leads the lightweight load carriage equipment revolution with Ten-Speed multi-use pouches, MOLLEminus platforms, and the patented Helium Whisper attachment system. Their proprietary ULTRAcomp high-performance coated fabric laminate material, unrivaled innovation, and attention to detail set Blue Force Gear apart from others in the tactical equipment industry. Blue Force Gear is a Great Place to Work Certified Company. For more information, visit their website: www.blueforcegear.com

Tags: Blue Force Gear
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NP Aerospace Canada Receives Order from Marshall Canada for Armoured Personnel Transport Modules

Thursday, May 29th, 2025

NP Aerospace, the global vehicle integrator and armour system design and manufacturer, has today announced the placement of a contract by Marshall Canada with NP Aerospace Canada, for the design and delivery of Armoured Personnel Transport Modules (APTM) as part of their wider Logistic Vehicle Modernization (LVM) program. NP Aerospace is exhibiting at CANSEC 2025 in Canada, at booth 1729.

The contract will see NP Aerospace design, develop, test, certify and produce the APTMs over a 3- year period as a major supplier to the Power Team – an industry consortium comprising General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada, Marshall Canada, Mercedes-Benz (Daimler Trucks), Manac and Soframe. The Power Team was formally awarded the LVM contract by Canada’s Department of National Defence in May 2024.

The modules will provide a significant level of blast and ballistic protection to the internally transported personnel. With a fully integrated design, the system will deliver the functionality and protection required to safely and comfortably transport troops on the back of Canada’s new fleet of Mercedes-Benz Zetros trucks, adding significant capability, protection, mobility and flexibility to deployed dismounted troops.

As a modular ISO compatible system, the APTMs will be interchangeable between multiple base LVM platforms, as well as being able to be ground-dumped when not in use. The ISO compatibility also means they can be easily and commonly handled for strategic logistic purposes, on trucks, ships and in aircraft.

NP Aerospace is already fully established as a trusted global supplier of vehicle-related products and services including integrated vehicle armour systems, such as the APTM, with a proven and resilient track record in delivering armour system design and cutting-edge lightweight armour materials technology. This contract will result in the recruitment of up to 20 more staff at NP’s Ontario base, continuing their successful growth trajectory and further contributing to the London and Southwestern Ontario region.

Alain Gauthier, Marshall Vice President – North America, said: “we are delighted to be growing our strategic relationship with NP Aerospace while investing in our Canadian supply chain under the LVM program. NP Aerospace is already a trusted supplier and partner, and we know the team possesses the required facilities, skills, knowledge, procurement and processes in place to provide the next generation of armoured personnel transport modules for the Canadian Armed Forces.”

James Kempston, NP Aerospace CEO, commented: “we’re proud to have been selected by Marshall Canada to design and deliver the APTM systems. The LVM program is a major procurement for Canada’s Department of National Defence and for NP Aerospace to be in the ‘Power Team’ supply chain is significant for us. The APTM requirement set is demanding but we have the skills and the know-how to design, develop, test and deliver a first class and compliant system”. He added: “our Canadian business is growing fast having doubled in staff in the last 12 months, and this contract will enable us to further develop our on-shore capability to serve our customers, both domestically and as a Canadian exporter. The future is bright, and I thank everyone who has been involved in this success story to date as we look forward to a continuation and expansion of our collective achievements in Canada and beyond.”

Posted in CANSEC, Contracts, International, Press Release | Comments Off on NP Aerospace Canada Receives Order from Marshall Canada for Armoured Personnel Transport Modules