June 2025 | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for June, 2025

Rheinmetall Receives Major Orders for 155 mm Ammunition from an International Customer – Order Value in the Higher Double-Digit Million Euro Range

Thursday, June 5th, 2025

Rheinmetall has received additional major orders for the delivery of 155 mm artillery ammunition. An international customer has placed two orders at the subsidiary Rheinmetall Denel Munition to supply extended range, full bore (ERFB) 155 mm artillery ammunition worth a total of a high double-digit million amount. The order includes projectiles, propellants and fuses.

“We are very grateful for the trust that our business partners and customers place in our globally proven extended-range ammunition and our technology for long ranges”, says Dr Frank Dirksen, CEO of Rheinmetall Denel Munition. “As a system supplier, we are constantly working to improve our cutting-edge technologies to offer the best possible solutions to modern armed forces”.

The latest orders are the result of rapidly rising international demand, triggered by the tense global security situation. Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of large-calibre ammunition. The Düsseldorf-based Technology Corporation Rheinmetall has been increasing its production capacity since 2022, and aims at producing at least 1.1 million 155 mm artillery shells per year by 2027.

Like the entire Rheinmetall Corporation, Rheinmetall Denel Munition is constantly expanding its production capacities, as international supply capacities are unable to keep up with demand.

Rheinmetall Denel Munition is also making progress in integrating significant technological innovations into its production. This also results in higher performance and outstanding field usability for users. Rheinmetall Denel Munition is currently validating the firing of precision projectiles with a range of 73 km from howitzers which are compatible with NATO’s Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding (JBMOU). These ranges enable significant survivability and offensive effectiveness on the battlefield.

Rheinmetall Denel Munition is committed to its long-standing business partners and end customers, who value the company’s delivery reliability and high level of technical support. With its production capacities and technical expertise, Rheinmetall Denel Munition enables utmost and reliable performance of 155 mm howitzers. This expertise extends the life cycle and value of the howitzers. Rheinmetall Denel Munition has its own manufacturing structure that covers all energetic and mechanical parts for the production of 155 mm ammunition, whether rocket-assisted, with increased effect or an even scattering. Rheinmetall Denel Munition expects increasing orders, and is constantly adjusting its five-year production plan to meet the needs of its most important customers.

Posted in Ammo, Contracts, Press Release | Comments Off on Rheinmetall Receives Major Orders for 155 mm Ammunition from an International Customer – Order Value in the Higher Double-Digit Million Euro Range

Senior Special Ops Leader Highlights AI’s Usefulness Beyond Battlefield

Thursday, June 5th, 2025

Although the U.S. Special Operations Command has embraced incorporating artificial intelligence into the 21st-century battlespace, one senior special operations forces leader noted that AI has non-tactical uses, which are proving very advantageous for the SOF community.

While speaking at the AI+ Expo in Washington today, Socom’s vice commander, Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Frank L. Donovan, said AI tools are helping the command build its budget and run more efficiently at the administrative level.

He admitted that talking about budgets “doesn’t sound exciting,” but it’s important to Donovan to “show that we have a good return on the investment” that American taxpayers make in Socom.

“We use this tool, integrating data from across multiple databases into a single pool, and [then] use generative AI to deliver insights and provide true courses of action to make sure that our baseline budget and our top line remains about constant,” he explained.

He added that such a process helps ensure the command is executing operations globally while cutting away excess and modernizing at the same time.

In terms of how human capital relates to budgeting, Donovan said the people who contribute to the process are still necessary for their valuable insights.

“We can have a large number of staff officers doing that type of work, and we want them still in the loop to provide their expertise,” he said. “But [with AI], we can move quicker — with more volume and data — to make a better decision.”

Socom has made significant AI-related inroads over the past year, particularly when it comes to software.

Last month, one industry expert said he would rate Socom’s overall progress on AI development as a “six or seven” on a scale of one to 10, noting that he sees areas where the command can continue to grow, including further integration of AI into legacy hardware systems.

Currently in its second year, the AI+ Expo is a forum for industry, government and academic research entities to exhibit some of the latest technological breakthroughs in AI, biotech, energy, networks, microelectronics, manufacturing and augmented reality, as well as discuss their implications for U.S. and allied competitiveness.

By Matthew Olay, DOD News

Posted in AI / ML, Guest Post, SOF | 1 Comment »

Smartshooter Awarded a $13M U.S. Army Contract for SMASH 2000L Fire Control Systems

Thursday, June 5th, 2025

YAGUR, Israel — SMARTSHOOTER, a world-class designer, developer, and manufacturer of innovative fire control systems, is proud to announce that its U.S. subsidiary, SMARTSHOOTER Inc., has received a new order valued at $13M from the U.S. Army for SMASH 2000L fire control systems. The systems will be deployed as part of the Army’s Transformation In Contact (TIC2.0) forces, a specially designated formation for accelerated testing and integration of advanced technologies on the battlefield.

SMASH fire control systems have already been acquired and operationally deployed by various branches of the U.S. armed forces, providing valuable field experience and demonstrating their effectiveness against evolving threats. Now, with the recent U.S. Army order, the technology will be integrated into the combat formation. This marks a major milestone in advancing U.S. dismounted counter-UAS capabilities.

Also known as SMASH 3000, SMASH 2000L (light) is SMARTSHOOTER’s lightest handheld-operated fire control system, which attaches to the Soldier’s rifle. Using computer vision, artificial intelligence, and advanced tracking algorithms, it enables Soldiers to detect, track, and precisely eliminate aerial and ground targets with unmatched accuracy. The system is especially effective against drones and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), offering a high probability of kill for emerging threats.

Michal Mor, CEO of SMARTSHOOTER, said: “We are honored by the U.S. Army’s continued confidence in our SMASH technology. With SMASH 2000L, dismounted Soldiers are empowered with advanced fire control capabilities, ensuring precision in every shot—even in the most complex and high-pressure scenarios. The current contract is a significant step toward Army-wide fielding, and we are committed to supporting this important initiative.”

Combat-proven by the Israeli Defense Forces during Operation Iron Swords, SMASH systems have also been fielded by other NATO forces and are gaining traction across multiple branches of the U.S. military.

For further details, please visit: www.smart-shooter.com

Posted in Army, Contracts, Industry, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on Smartshooter Awarded a $13M U.S. Army Contract for SMASH 2000L Fire Control Systems

Gentex Aircrew Operations Systems – Modern Alternatives to Legacy Helmet Systems

Thursday, June 5th, 2025

Gentex Aircrew Operations Systems offer a modern alternative to legacy aircrew helmet systems like the HGU-55/P. Designed with versatility, comfort, and mission-specific performance in mind, these systems meet the evolving needs of today’s aircrew.

Available in two helmet systems—the Ops-Core® Aircrew FAST® System (HGU-100A/P) and the Ops-Core® Aircrew Skull Mount System (HGU-100/P)—these lightweight, scalable solutions deliver improved NVG integration and streamlined compatibility with legacy communication equipment and mission-critical accessories. The FAST System also provides the added benefit of reliable bump protection for aircrew operating in demanding environments.

Both helmet systems are approved USAF Safe-to-Fly for a wide range of aircraft (including C-130, C-17, C-5, AC-130, KC-135, and more) and provide capability to every aircrew position, including pilots, loadmasters, systems operators, and special mission aviators.

Key benefits include:

• Simplified and stable NVG integration with Aeronox™Mount into Modular Bungee Shroud (MBS)

• Improved comfort and balance, especially when wearing NVGs and CBRN masks

• Easy-to-use systems in stable, lightweight, and breathable platforms

• Compatible with legacy headsets and rail-mounted accessories

Discover the ultimate fusion of innovation and performance with the Ops-Core® Aircrew Skull Mount System (SMS) and the Ops-Core Aircrew FAST® System.

Together, the systems exceed today’s requirements with a synergy of enhanced operational performance and mission readiness.

Explore the full solution

Posted in Advertiser, Aviation, Press Release | 2 Comments »

Plumb Precision Products Reveals the P3 M110 and M110A1 C-UAS Weapon System

Thursday, June 5th, 2025

Issaquah, Washington, June 4th 2025

Plumb Precision Products is excited to reveal the P3 M110A1 C-UAS weapon system technology demonstrator. This is a light weight anti-drone platform focused on type 2 and 3 UAS. The weapon system is intended as an Engineering Change Proposal (ECP) to the M110 and M110A1 series of rifles. For the M110A1 It utilizes the P3 HK 417 magazine adaptor in order to utilize the Genesis Arms 12-gauge magazines. The use of 12-gauge ammunition provides the end user unprecedented flexibly for non-lethal, lethal, and counter UAS options.

This and other P3 C-UAS 12-gauge based concepts feature the expertise of Genesis Arms. Genesis Arms and Plumb Precision have had working relationship for over 5 years. This is reflected in the P3 M110A1 H&K and the M110 Knights Armament pattern 12-gauge upper receiver C-UAS concepts.

This particular variant uses a HUXWRX 12-gauge Ventumsuppressor. This compact and lightweight suppressor prioritizes maneuverability without sacrificing functionality and is full auto-rated.

It also features a Heckler and Koch M320 40mm grenade launcher. This enables the system to utilize low pressure 40mm counter UAS ammunition under development and legacy 40mm ammunition. The P3 M110A1 C-UAS uses precision 40mm ammunition such as the Raytheon Pike and its C-UAS variant. This extends the maximum effect range to almost 2000 meters.

Not shown is the patent pending P3 C-UAS detection system. Recently submitted to SF Command’s X-tech program, itutilizes acoustic detection, laser tracking, and AI enabled targeting to engage UAS. The P3 M110A1 and M110 C-UAS systems were specifically created for submission into AEWE and C-UAS programs.

Plumb Precision Products expects to conduct basic conversions to the existing M110/M110A1 for as little as $2500 per unit. This would allow the Department of Defense to convert and field preexisting systems immediately, for less money than any other option.

Look for more information from www.plumbprecision.com

Posted in Press Release, UAS, weapons | 12 Comments »

Logistik Unicorp – Extreme Cold Weather Mittens

Thursday, June 5th, 2025

As an internal R&D project, Logistik Unicorp has developed an extreme cold weather mitten which combines traditional materials with new high tech features. Designed to protect the wearer to -50°C and beyond, they are worn as part of a handwear system.

I bought up with the design team at last week’s CANSEC in Ottawa. The team explained that after having evaluated numerous materials, they found that beaver pelts are the optimal material for this application. They looked at several animal hides, including seal, but nothing held up to the Arctic temperatures quite like beaver pelts. In fact, the skins add Canadian content to the system, the pelts harvested and prepared by First Nation craftsmen.

While First Nation tribes live in the far north, they concentrate on survival, avoiding raising a sweat as much as possible. A Soldier on the other hand, isn’t going to be able to avoid moving and other hard work that causes sweat. Beaver not only insulates, but it is inherently waterproof. What’s more, it is extremely comfortable meaning you can use it to warm your face and if you wipe a runny nose, the frozen mucus just slides away, with no build up.

Although the beaver is combined with a Cordura shell and synthetic insulation, the team continues to consider other sustainable materials such as salmon skin, although there are currently challenges to keeping the material supple in such extreme conditions.

According to Logitik Unicorp designers, you might yet see salmon skin integrated into future iterations if they can get the material processing down to meet the challenge.

Editors Note: First paragraph updated to remove reference to DND Operational Clothing contract and clarify that the mittens are being developed in-house.

Posted in CANSEC, Clothing, International, Mountaineering | 4 Comments »

Army Scientists Train Soldiers on How to Leverage AI Technologies

Thursday, June 5th, 2025

ADELPHI, Md. — A cohort of 25 Soldiers and three civilians mastered the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning as part of a special course taught by experts at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory, also known as DEVCOM ARL.

Mid-career Army officers, warrant officers and non-commissioned officers traveled from across the nation to attend the course. The goal was for participants to finish the course with an in-depth understanding of how they might leverage AI for their particular role in the Army.

“The instructors did a phenomenal job breaking down complex concepts like convolutional layers, generative adversarial networks and transformer models into digestible lessons, even for non-technical folks,” said Capt. Nathan Jackson, an active-duty air defense artillery officer stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky. “I now see clear opportunities for AI to support everything from predictive modeling of officer career paths to optimizing air defense planning.”

This course, led by DEVCOM ARL researchers Dr. Mark Tschopp and Dr. Reginald Hobbs and Maj. Matt Work from the U.S. Army Futures and Concepts Center, represents one way that DEVCOM ARL prepares Soldiers for a future operating environment dominated by artificial intelligence.

“AI holds the extraordinary potential to swiftly analyze the deluge of data present within the future battlefield and to deliver actionable insight to Soldiers at the speed of relevance,” Tschopp said. “We want this course to equip Soldiers with the knowledge and decision-making capabilities to harness AI as a tool to gain a competitive edge over our adversaries.”

ARL launched the Artificial Intelligence for Soldiers course as part of the Army G-3/5/7’s Strategic Broadening Seminar program in 2024 to provide Soldiers with a unique learning opportunity in a critical technology domain.

The course features classroom seminars, guest lectures by Army leaders, tours of ARL research facilities and close-up demonstrations of the laboratory’s latest AI and robotics technology.

During the span of one week, course participants were provided a wealth of information that not only illuminated how AI systems work but also highlighted AI’s nature as a tool with real limitations and specialized applications. Once the course established a solid foundational understanding of AI and ML for the participants, the program coordinators demonstrated to the Soldiers the various ways that Army researchers have implemented AI in Army technology so far.

“It was fascinating to learn where AI opportunities are being explored and what AI limitations that scientists are trying to overcome,” said Maj. Mathew Miller, Army acquisition officer. “I was most impressed with where ARL scientists are applying AI now. I feel much more empowered to approach industry on the topic of AI, and I hope to reach out to ARL scientists in the future as a resource for attacking acquisition challenges.”

The course concluded on Friday with capstone presentations by the participants to Army senior leaders. Each team showcased what they had learned and proposed a new AI-driven capability that would address a future Army need.

U.S. Army’s Director of Strategy, Plans and Policy Maj. Gen. Stephanie Ahern congratulated the course participants for their growth and stressed the importance of continued education and engagement in this technology space.

“This course was about developing you all—as some of the Army’s rising leaders—to meet the challenges ahead,” Ahern said. “Your ability to work with experts who are working with AI every day and your ability to apply AI in the field are extremely essential to the Army mission. Please continue to be an agent of change; you are a part of the solution, and you are not in it alone.”

By U.S. Army DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory Public Affairs

Posted in AI / ML, Army, Guest Post | Comments Off on Army Scientists Train Soldiers on How to Leverage AI Technologies

Kongsberg Hosts 15th PROTECTOR Users Working Group in the U.S.

Wednesday, June 4th, 2025

DETROIT – June 3, 2025 – Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace hosted its 15th PROTECTOR Users Working Group (PUWG), bringing together global defense partners, military operators and industry stakeholders for three days of strategic collaboration, knowledge exchange and innovations focused on the world-leading family of PROTECTOR Remote Weapon Stations and Remote Turrets.

The PROTECTOR remote weapon systems family has revolutionized the way the U.S. and its allies fight, giving protection to gunners by allowing them to remotely operate weapon systems from within an armored cab rather than perched outside and exposed, above the roof of the vehicle. In total, more than 29,000 systems have been fielded to 31 nations worldwide.

Behind the walls of the Italian American Cultural Society, military personnel from 15 countries will discuss current and emerging threats on the battlefield – like drones – and how best to defeat them. What is being learned on the battlefields in Ukraine is changing the concept of operations for all militaries and those in attendance are poised to set the stage for superiority and overmatch, equipping allied forces with best-in-class detection and defeat with greater standoff and enhanced soldier safety.

“The battlefield is changing constantly and now more than ever, it is vital that information be shared in real-time forums, like the PROTECTOR Users Working Group, that we have created for our customers and industry partners, and we are proud to have hosted this event for a 15th time” said Jørgen Bull, vice president, Land Systems, Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace. “This event continues to serve as a vital forum for operational users and KONGSBERG’s engineering teams to engage directly, driving user-centric innovation and continuous and more rapid capability development. The feedback and collaboration from our customers are invaluable as we advance PROTECTOR remote weapon stations and remote turrets and ensure they remain the most capable and trusted solutions on the battlefield.”

Held in Detroit, Mich. June 2-4, this year’s PUWG marked a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between KONGSBERG and the growing community of PROTECTOR users. This unique forum brings together defense acquisition, user and maintenance organizations of PROTECTOR Remote Weapon Systems, to meet and share their practical system knowledge and experience, as well as receive new information regarding the PROTECTOR family of systems.

Among the highlights of the event were demonstrations of the latest iterations of the PROTECTOR family, including advancements in lethality, multi-sensor integration, counter-UAS capability, and the growing role of remote weapon capabilities in combat and robotic vehicle operations. The event also featured hands-on workshops, technology showcases, and in-depth discussions focused on future capabilities, user feedback, and operational integration. The technology showcase included the following systems:

– US Marine Corps Amphibious Combat Vehicle with Kongsberg 30mm turret (ACV-30)

– AM General Future Driven HUMVEE with Kongsberg’s CROWS Remote Weapon Station-Tech Refresh and Spike Missile

– Robotic Combat Vehicle with Kongsberg RS6

– Tactical Vehicle with Kongsberg CROWS-Tech Refresh and combat management system

For more information about the PROTECTOR RWS and KONGSBERG’s defense solutions, please visit bit.ly/KongsbergRWS.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Kongsberg Hosts 15th PROTECTOR Users Working Group in the U.S.