June 2025 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for June, 2025

UK MOD Signs Protector Support Contract with GA-ASI

Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

SAN DIEGO – 09 June 2025 – The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence has signed a support and sustainment contract with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) for logistics and maintenance of the Protector RG Mk1 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) system. The contract — known as the UK Protector Availability and Support Solution or UK PASS — will provide ongoing support for the new Protector RPA systems supplied by GA-ASI and now being operated by the UK’s Royal Air Force (RAF). The Protector RPA is based on GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian®.

UK PASS is a Direct Commercial Sale contract and includes support for the Protector program’s RPA, the Certifiable Ground Control Stations and the Synthetic Training Systems.

“This contract marks an essential milestone in the fielding of the Protector RPA system for the RAF,” said Chris Dusseault, Vice President of MQ-9B in Europe. “With the UK PASS contract in place, we can now transition from the test and development phase of the program to training the RAF flight crews for operations.”

UK PASS is part of GA-ASI’s SkyGuardian Global Support Solutions (SGSS), which provides support for the entire MQ-9B customer base. SGSS is a shared Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) model, with resources such as labor, material, and overhead for maintenance, supply management, and other support functions required to sustain the RPA system, pooled together for use by the entire customer base. This approach provides efficiencies and a lower cost for customers.

“The awarding of the PASS contract marks three years of intensive work between GA-ASI and UK MOD multidisciplinary teams to turn a concept in to a reality. This has generated a first-in class sustainment solution for the Royal Air Force Protector fleet, that exploits contractor owned inventory from a global common spares pool. This contract differs from a traditional spares and repairs contract, achieving economies of scale via a multi-customer common operating model,” said Group Captain Rich Cameron – Uncrewed Air System 3 Team Leader.

GA-ASI’s MQ-9B is the world’s most advanced RPA system, delivering exceptionally long endurance and range. MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian® models, with multiple deliveries made to the U.K.’s Royal Air Force (Protector), as well as orders from Canada, Poland, the Japan Coast Guard, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Taiwan, India, and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. MQ-9B has also supported various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.

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BlackPoint Tactical Leather WING Holster earns NTOA Recommendation

Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

ALPHARETTA, GA, June 11, 2025 – BlackPoint Tactical, a High Speed Gear Products Group brand known for premium American-made tactical solutions, proudly announces that its Leather WING™ ConcealmentHolster has been awarded a 4.55/5 overall score along with the coveted “Member Tested and Recommended” designation by the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA). This rating follows extensive evaluation by seven law enforcement professionals from Nebraska, New Jersey, Louisiana, Alabama and Illinois.

Key Findings

Outstanding Comfort & Concealment – Reviewers consistently praised the holster’s leather “wings,” which contour to the body for all-day comfort while minimizing printing.

Secure, Precise Fit – Adjustable passive retention and a firearm-specific Kydex shell delivered flawless draws and re-holstering across all tests.

Duty Ready Durability – Field testers reported zero fraying, deformation, or loose hardware after weeks of daily use, rigorous movement, and range testing.

Versatile OWB Solution – High ride profile, light bearing options, and conversion capability to IWB make the Leather WING™ an adaptable choice for on and off-duty carry.

Representative Tester Feedback

“This holster functioned better than expected…The wings help the holster conform to your body, which keeps it stable and improves concealment.” – New Jersey Officer

“The P320 with TLR and RDS fits like a glove! Retention was better than I expected and allowed for an easy, smooth draw.” – Illinois Investigator

The Leather WING™ is available @ blackpointtactical.com/shop/leather-wing

For more information, please contact Tyler Johnson at Tyler@BlackPointTactical.com.

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Spectra Group Unveils Troposcatter on the Move (TOTM) to Asia at Indo Defence

Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

Spectra Group, a specialist provider of secure voice, data and satellite communications systems, is unveiling its new Troposcatter on the Move (TOTM) capability at Indo Defence and will be showcasing this and their other strategic communication capabilities in Booth D167f at Jakarta International Expo, June 11-14th 2025.

Asia Pacific nations face unique challenges in achieving seamless connectivity across vast island chains and coastal territories. TOTM, engineered with Spectra’s signature expertise in advanced troposcatter technology, delivers robust, secure, high-bandwidth data communications between ship-to-shore and ship-to-ship — even while on the move. Unlike satellite-based systems, TOTM operates independently of GPS and offers a critical advantage in contested or denied environments marking a significant leap forward in mobile, high-bandwidth data communications for the Asia Pacific region’s maritime and archipelagic requirements. Spectra Group has been working in partnership with Comtech and BATS Wireless antennas throughout 2024 to develop the TOTM concept, for which, as the systems integrator Spectra Group has full distribution rights. Comtech and Spectra Group recognised the need for increased manoeuvre and large network data on the move, and so, working together with BATS wireless proved the concept of TOTM. Subsequently, Spectra Group working in partnership with BATS Wireless has produced a fully integrated TOTM solution that combines Comtech’s COMET troposcatter with BATS Electronically Steered Antennas (ESAs) into a single fully integrated terminal to deliver an industry first capability.

Extensive sea trials successfully tested and validated TOTM scenarios by simulating island hopping in the Florida Keys, Florida Panhandle and off the coast of California. The tests involved ship to shore and ship to ship scenarios proving the concept of TOTM by demonstrating systems tracking and communicating with other nodes while on the move using GPS, but also showcasing the potential for advanced mobile connectivity in challenging environments without reliance on GPS.

TOTM enhances the utility and operational effectiveness of COMET in a littoral manoeuvre context, especially in contested, GPS or satellite denied environments. Its mobility and capacity delivers band-widths of up to 210 Mbps and ranges in excess of 100 Km to support a wide range of mobile applications such as Ship to Ship or Ship to Shore communications, Beyond Line of Sight strategic communications or Wide Area Networks, secure data links for autonomous sensors, control of remote vessels, Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) and any other application that requires big data delivered to the front line. The TOTM solution can also be utilized with land vehicles for efficient “at the pause” applications, enabling users to quickly establish Troposcatter communications without having to set up and align antennas, allowing rapid data transmission from positions of opportunity. Simon Davies, CEO of Spectra Group said: “TOTM’s launch in Asia Pacific couldn’t be more timely, with increasing demands for rapid, resilient connectivity across archipelagic states, TOTM provides a decisive edge in high-mobility scenarios. TOTM is about ensuring command and control even in the most challenging maritime environments.”

Posted in Comms, Press Release | Comments Off on Spectra Group Unveils Troposcatter on the Move (TOTM) to Asia at Indo Defence

L3Harris Providing Additional Vampire Counter-UAS Systems to Department of Defense

Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

MELBOURNE, Fla., June 9, 2025 — L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) has received a new contract through the U.S. Department of Defense for additional VAMPIRE systems, which neutralize unmanned aerial threats. The new order builds on the first delivery and installation of the VAMPIRE systems in 2023 in support of European operations.

VAMPIRE, or Vehicle Agnostic Modular Palletized ISR Rocket Equipment, delivers advanced reconnaissance and precision strike capabilities against drones and remotely piloted aircraft, enabling European ground forces to protect allied infrastructures from enemy attacks.

“L3Harris’ VAMPIRE has proven to be a reliable and cost-effective response to the growing counter-UAS threat on the global battlefield,” said Tom Kirkland, Vice President and General Manager, Targeting and Sensor Systems, L3Harris. “We will continue to work closely with the Department of Defense and our allied partners to provide formidable counter-UAS technology domestically and abroad.”

VAMPIRE integrates L3Harris’ rugged WESCAM MX™-10D RSTA targeting and sensor system with its weapons station to allow operators to identify and engage targets quickly. The system also combines the Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System rocket with the L3Harris proximity fuze and Widow® mission management software for increased system lethality for engaging ground and aerial targets.

VAMPIRE has shown potential for multi-domain applications with capabilities that can extend to the sea, offering a solution for maritime operations against UAS, fast inshore attack crafts and low-slow flyers.

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Wilde Custom Gear Goliath Large Admin Pouch

Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

Designed for seamless conversion from a traditional MOLLE pouch to a chest rig or a fanny pack, the Goliath Large Admin Pouch offers versatility. Composed of Squadron Laminate Fabric and 1000D Nylon, it is durable and water-resistant.

The front boasts 6 rows by 6 columns of laser-cut MOLLE, topped with 2.5 inches of loop Velcro, perfect for personalizing with patches or name tapes. Additionally, compression straps enhance the stability and security of your gear.

The top zipper opens to offer a 180-degree clamshell design with ample access to the interior compartments, including mesh pockets and elastic loops to keep your items in place.

Offered in Coyote, Black, Ranger Green, OD Green, Gray, MultiCam, MultiCam Black and US Woodland.

wildecustomgear.com/products/goliath-large-admin-pouch

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New LANTAC Suppressor Accessories

Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

Lantac has been an industry leader in muzzle devices for some time. The introduction of the Dragon® Muzzle Brake offeredimproved recoil management and muzzle rise over traditional muzzle brakes.

The Dragon’s patented gas handling system reduces muzzle rise and recoil to nearly zero – making follow up shots smooth and fast.

The demand for suppressor mount variants utilizing theDragon’s unique design features have only increased.

Lantac has now introduced new variants of its Dragon Brake for the Plan-B mounting standard.

Lantac Plan-B mounts include the new Lamprey™ Flash Fider and Flash-Comp, as well as the very popular Dragon® Muzzle Brakes.

All Lamprey muzzle devices feature a patented design – offering improved signature reduction over many competitors. Its unique ‘toothed’ four tine design disrupts gas more efficiently and reduces flash intensity and duration.

Short and long versions of each device will provide users with a wide range of options and features.

If you have a HUB-compatible suppressor, Lantac’s new Plan-B& Direct Thread hub adapters are now also available.

The new Patent Pending Adaptable Core Hub can be fitted using a standard Armorers Barrel Nut Wrench. HUB variants include Plan-B to 1.375×24, 1/2-28 DT to 1.375×24 and 5/8-24 DT to 1.375×24.

Manufactured from both 17-4 H900 Stainless Steel and Grade 6 Titanium.

Lantac has long provided shooters who prefer Dead Air® Keymo™ mounts with the advanced weapon control features seen in the Dragon muzzle devices.

With the new Lantac Xeno Dragon, shooters can now enjoy advanced weapon control with the ability to mount the Dead Air XENO HUB.

Both mount designs are fully licensed from Dead Air socustomers suppressor warranty remains unaffected.

Both Keymo™ and Xeno™ mounts ship with timing shim set sets for easy install.

SilencerCo users who prefer the ASR mounting interface can also enjoy the benefits of the Dragon Muzzle Brake in various thread pitches and calibers.

Lantac continues to innovate and expand their muzzle device product line.

To learn more about Lantac products, visit www.Lantac-usa.com.

Posted in Press Release, Suppressors, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on New LANTAC Suppressor Accessories

NSNs Assigned to FN’s Lightweight Intermediate Caliber Cartridge Carbine and Suppressor

Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

Over the weekend, Japanese X account @teppoblog surprised us with a post listing National Stock Numbers associated with the Lightweight Intermediate Caliber Cartridge (LICC) Individual Weapon System (IWS), a novel weapon and ammunition manufactured by FN America. We reached out to several sources to validate the NSNs and they came back as real. We must point out that Teppoblog has a history of sharing correct info.

The LICC IWS project originated in 2019 from requirements provided to the Irregular Warfare Technology Support Directorate (IWTSD), a government office, which is responsible for conducting research and development in support of U.S. and allied organizations involved in Irregular Warfare. In fact, one of those sponsors of this system, Canada Special Operations Forces Command just nominated the program’s caliber, 6.5 x 43mm (.264) for NATO Standardization. FN America was awarded a development contract and we’ve kept up on the program with a couple of updates. Last November, FN delivered carbines, machines guns, suppressors, and ammunition to several SOF organizations.

The LICC IWS has four purpose-built components:

• Lightweight ammunition family
• Improved Performance Carbine
• 25-round purpose-built, polymer magazine
• Signature Suppressor

These new NSNs pertain to the three variants of the Improved Performance Carbine (11.5” Close Quarters Battle (CQB), 14.5” Carbine, and 18.5” Recce (Designated Marksmanship Rifle)) as well as two suppressors associated with the system.

The NSNs are:

NSN 1005-01-729-0039, FN IMPROVED PERFORMANCE CARBINE 12.5 IN CQB WITH BII*

NSN 1005-01-729-0052, FN IMPROVED PERFORMANCE CARBINE 14.5 IN CQB WITH BII

NSN 1005-01-729-0046, FN IMPROVED PERFORMANCE CARBINE 18.12 IN REECE (sic) WITH BII

NSN 1005-01-728-9868, SUPPRESSOR, FLOW 264 FOR IMPROVED PERFORMANCE CARBINE

NSN 1005-01-728-9874, SUPPRESSOR, FLOW 7.62 FOR IMPROVED PERFORMANCE CARBINE

*Basic Issue Items

The suppressors are manufactured by HUXWRX.

The NSNs are managed by the Special Operations Forces Support Activity at Lexington Bluegrass Army Depot and are available for requisition by Army, Navy, Marine, Air Force and SOCOM elements and activities.

Coincidentally, they’ve added a belt-fed machine gun to the capability in the form of the FN Evolys, but we still haven’t seen an NSN. Logic goes, that if the carbines have them, it should as well.

FN has also demonstrated versions of Evolys in 7.62 NATO and 6.5 CM in addition to the .264 model developed for this program. In fact, the first version of Evolys seen in the US was as the 6.8mm candidate for Next Generation Squad Automatic Rifle which rolled into NGSW. While it proved a desirable candidate for NGSW, it was too heavy for the specs spelled out in the requirement.

Due to the multiple caliber options, a forward leaning organization could buy the LICC machine gun and then arrange for the conversion kit from FN America for the desired caliber.

Likewise, we have not yet seen any Department of Defense Identification Codes (DODIC) for the ammunition. Not saying they don’t exist, but a reliable source of .264 ammunition is critical for adoption.

At any rate, these NSNs offer an opportunity for select DoD organizations (or perhaps Federal LE) to take advantage of the production contract associated with this program.

Posted in Ammo, SOF, Suppressors, weapons | 30 Comments »

Army Accelerates Fielding of Advanced Small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems to Enhance Combat Capabilities

Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

The Army is rapidly advancing capabilities in the Short-Range Reconnaissance (SRR) program by deploying cutting-edge Small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (SUAS) to Transformation in Contact (TiC) Brigades.

These modernized systems amplify combat power and lethality, improve troop survivability, and give commanders real-time intelligence on the modern battlefield.

COL Danielle Medaglia, UAS Project Manager, highlighted the importance of the Army’s approach.

“The technology across the UAS environment is evolving at a rapid pace,” Medaglia said. “Therefore, in parallel to fielding the next tranche of SRR we are already working on future capabilities, leveraging new mature technology and quickly iterating on Soldier feedback.”
“Continuous iteration and integration of new technology, multi-vendor awards, and continuous competition ensures we can field the most capable and cost effective UAS, at scale, that aligns with Soldier needs.”

SRR systems are integral to modern warfare. Equipped with advanced sensors, these SUAS provide real-time intelligence, reconnaissance, and target acquisition, empowering commanders with swift decision-making capabilities. Acting as force multipliers, they enable precise fires, support ground operations with timely information, enhance operational flexibility, and crucially, improve troop survivability by detecting threats and identifying safe routes.

Equipping of Next-Generation SUAS Capabilities

The Army continues to use a multi-vendor approach to drive competition and deliver technology at the speed of relevance.

“The rapid deployment of Tranche 2 SUAS to our combat teams is a testament to our commitment to providing Soldiers with the most advanced tools available,” said BG David Phillips, Program Executive Officer, Aviation. “These systems are not just about technology; they are about enhancing our operational capabilities and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of our troops on the ground.”

In April, PEO Aviation’s UAS Project Office responded to an urgent request to deploy Tranche 2 SUAS to the 1st Brigade Combat Team of the 101st Airborne Division (Fort Campbell, Kentucky) in support of their rotation at the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) at Fort Johnson, Louisiana.

Demonstrating the Army’s ability to rapidly equip its forces, Skydio X10D systems were delivered to the 1/101st, under the Army’s TiC 2.0 initiative within one month of the request. Additionally, Teal Drones’ Black Widow system is preparing to field. Both Skydio and Teal will support Army TiC Brigades in developing and refining tactics, techniques, and procedures for employing networked reconnaissance and surveillance systems against emerging battlefield threats.

The Army’s Vision for the Future of SRR

The deployment and evaluation of these SUAS are part of a larger Army initiative focused on “Transforming in Contact” – evaluating uncrewed aircraft systems and aligning personnel and tactics with new technologies. The Tranche 2 system is built upon Soldier feedback with improvements such as enhanced autonomy, a new ground control station, and modular architecture.

The Army remains steadfast in its mission to strengthen Soldier lethality, creating a force that can dominate in large-scale combat operations across multiple domains.

“The modern battlefield is changing. I think we’ve seen that,” said Gen. Randy George, Chief of Staff of the Army, during a recent interview. “We’ve learned a lot over the last year and a half with our transformation in contact. So, this is bottom-up innovation that we know we need, and we know we’ve been watching what’s happening on the modern battlefield.”

From Program Executive Office, Aviation

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