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Archive for June, 2025

Chief Course Returns with Warfighter Emphasis

Saturday, June 28th, 2025

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. —

The Chief Leadership Academy welcomed 34 students to the facilitated distance learning portion of the new Chief Leadership Course, June 16, 2025, after a nine-month course pause for curriculum refinement.

The students are part of a beta course, designed to test and certify that the new curriculum meets the needs of the Air Force. This redesigned five-week hybrid course combines facilitated distance learning with in-residence education.

“The new curriculum emphasizes warfighting doctrine and operations in contested environments,” Chief Master Sgt. Andrew Sotak, CLA commandant, said. “Unlike the previous course’s focus on unit-level efficiency, this curriculum prepares Chiefs for global, high-intensity scenarios, such as emerging technology threats.”

The facilitated distance learning phase of CLC consists of 40 hours of self-paced online sessions over two weeks. Chiefs progress as a group through leadership, strategic and warfighting modules with mandatory check-ins for discussions and feedback. Facilitated distance learning offers flexibility for balancing operational duties and helps to prepare chiefs for the classroom portion of the course.

The in-residence phase takes place at the CLA on Maxwell Air Force Base-Gunter Annex, Alabama, and consists of 120 hours of instruction over three weeks. Students are divided into small “flights” to enhances tailored instruction, discussions and hands-on activities.

The new course also includes formal assessments, something the prior course didn’t have.

“Pre and post assessments, quizzes, a cumulative final exam and briefings replace the prior subjective evaluations,” Sotak said. “This ensures rigorous, measurable outcomes and continuous improvement through participant feedback.”

Led by the Thomas N. Barnes Center for Enlisted Education, the curriculum overhaul included insight from major command senior leaders, combatant command leaders, Air University staff, field leaders, subject matter experts and graduates to help certify relevance for first-year Chiefs.

The course focuses on four primary learning outcomes: command leadership, organizational functions and domains, strategic leadership, and joint, interagency, intergovernmental, multinational (JIIM) operations. These learning outcomes are integrated with the Great Power Competition, Air Force Doctrine, mission command principles and the role of the chief.

“Our faculty of active-duty and retired chiefs and civilian educators have extensive credentials and are exceptional mentors,” Sotak said. “This course will enhance a chief’s confidence and ability to lead adaptable, lethal teams through complex scenarios and ensure mission readiness in the future fight.”

By Brian Ferguson

Barnes Center for Enlisted Education

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

GA-ASI Announces Investment in Dutch Technology Innovator Arceon

Friday, June 27th, 2025

Selection Follows Successful Pitch During Blue Magic Netherlands Event

SAN DIEGO – 26 June 2025 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) announces an investment in another Dutch business, Arceon, following the inaugural Blue Magic Netherlands (BMN) event held in November 2024. GA-ASI is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems and related mission systems.

GA-ASI selected Arceon following a compelling pitch they made during the BMN event and after detailed business and technology discussions with GA-ASI and GA’s affiliates, General Atomics Energy and General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems. Arceon joins Emergent Swarm Solutions and Saluqi Motors as companies receiving investment from GA-ASI following the BMN event.

Arceon is revolutionizing high-performance ceramic composites through their innovative, fast, scalable, and cost-effective melt infiltration process. Their cutting-edge Carbeon carbon-ceramic components — engineered for applications such as nozzles, nozzle extensions, leading edges, nose caps, and airframes — are tailored to meet the increasing and rigorous demands of the space and defense sectors.

“We are honored to collaborate with General Atomics in advancing hypersonic development. This milestone marks our official entry into the U.S. defense sector, presenting an extraordinary opportunity to demonstrate our technology on a global stage. We look forward, with great anticipation, to the journey ahead,” said Rahul Shirke, founder and CEO of Arceon B.V.

“We’re excited to be working with Arceon,” said Brad Lunn, managing director for GA-ASI. “Their technology could have a broad range of applications for GA, from high-temperature engine exhaust materials to hypersonics and fusion containment.”

At the Blue Magic investment and innovation conference in the Netherlands last November, GA-ASI and its partners heard pitches from innovative Dutch companies about the important technologies they are developing. The event was organized collaboratively between GA-ASI, the Dutch Ministry of Defense, the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, Brainport Development in Eindhoven, and Brabant Development Agency (BOM). GA-ASI is delivering eight MQ-9A aircraft to the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF).

GA-ASI is continuing to work with the Dutch government and Dutch industry in supporting the growth of technology innovation in the Netherlands and anticipates holding its second BMN event in Eindhoven later this year. The company hosted its first Blue Magic event in 2019 in Belgium, with subsequent events held in 2020, 2021, and 2023.

Posted in Aviation, Industry, International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Announces Investment in Dutch Technology Innovator Arceon

New Strike Micro Threaded Comp – QUAD V Available Exclusively through Optics Planet

Friday, June 27th, 2025

Designed as the next evolution of SI’s original Quad Comp, the Quad V is longer, lighter, and requires zero tuning out of the box.

The ‘V’ stands for vertical as it’s designed to kill all vertical movement of the muzzle when firing your handgun. This new and longer compensator’s main difference from its original design (the Quad Comp) is that it will work right out of the box with your pistol without any tuning required.

Previously, the original Quad Comp needed some tuning of the guide rod’s recoil spring depending on the platform. Additionally, the original Quad focused on killing fore and aft movement, reducing perceived felt recoil.

The new Quad Comp V features two large vertical ports for gas to exit from and despite being 1.44″ in length, its aesthetic design aid in weight reduction so this won’t feel cumbersome on the user at all when installed.

www.opticsplanet.com/opticsplanet-exclusive-strike-industries-strike-micro-quad-v-threaded-9mm-compen

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First Success for Rheinmetall Ermine – Dutch Ministry of Defence Orders 20 Manned/Unmanned Ground Vehicles for Ukraine

Friday, June 27th, 2025

The Dutch Ministry of Defence has, on behalf of the Ukraine Task Force, signed a contract with the Ede-based subsidiary Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. to supply 20 Ermine vehicles. The Minister of Defence signed the contract with Rheinmetall on the 24th of June during the NATO Industry Summit in The Hague.

The variants now ordered are manned/unmanned ground vehicles. These are to be delivered to the Ukrainian armed forces, strengthening their capability for casualty evacuation near the frontline. The vehicles are to be delivered in 2026. In this configuration, a cooperation with other Dutch companies like DEMCON defense & security systems B.V. & Abiom Communication Systems (ACS) B.V. has been set up as a force multiplier. This national cooperation among industry and MoD will further develop knowledge and capabilities for the Armed Forces of the Netherlands and Ukraine. Quote by Coen van Leeuwen, CEO of Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V.: “We are grateful for the trust in our capacities. Ermine is an innovative and capable solution for the modern battlefield.”

The Ermine (Hermelin) family of small vehicles represents a new generation of mobility, combining tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid). Operational creativity is at the core Ermine’s design. Its features enable it to act as an effective force multiplier.

The modular Ermine family currently consists of an UGV, a side-by-side buggy and a quad. Various 4×4 and 6×6 variants are available. All vehicles are based on the same diesel-electric hybrid drivetrain and base platform. This gives the Ermine maximum modularity with unrivalled agility. Thanks to the hybrid technology, up to one ton of payload, and a range of more than 1,000 kilometres are possible, depending on the vehicle’s configuration. Up to four Ermine vehicles can be transported by cargo helicopters such as the CH-47 or CH-53.

This contract marks the first significant milestone for the Ermine and will, by supporting the Ukraine armed forces, also boost the defence industry in the Netherlands.

Posted in Contracts, International, Mobility, Power, Press Release | Comments Off on First Success for Rheinmetall Ermine – Dutch Ministry of Defence Orders 20 Manned/Unmanned Ground Vehicles for Ukraine

INVISIO Secures SEK 145 Million Order for Dismounted Soldier Systems

Friday, June 27th, 2025

INVISIO has received a significant order from a new European customer for its dismounted soldier systems. Deliveries are to be completed during 2025.

The order covers INVISIO’s personal communications systems providing a market leading hearing protection and seamless communication capabilities. The order, which includes the new INVISIO X7 in-ear headset, INVISIO Control Units and intelligent cables, has a value of approximately SEK 145 million.

The recently launched INVISIO X7 in-ear headset sets a new standard for usability, offering market-leading hearing protection combined with exceptional comfort, easy insertion, and crystal-clear communication—even in the most demanding environments.

INVISIO’s control units enable users to manage all aspects of communication, accommodating both individual preferences and mission-specific requirements—core elements of the solution delivered to this customer.

Lars Højgård Hansen, INVISIO CEO, said: “This is another substantial order for our dismounted soldier systems. We are very pleased that our solutions are re-affirmed once again as meeting the very high expectations of users operating in the most critical and challenging conditions and that we can add another important customer to our network.”

invisio.com

Posted in Comms, Contracts, International, Press Release | Comments Off on INVISIO Secures SEK 145 Million Order for Dismounted Soldier Systems

UF PRO Expands Tactical Belt Line with New Waist/Flex V-Buckle Belt

Friday, June 27th, 2025

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (26.06.2025)

UF PRO expands its range of tactical accessories with the introduction of the Waist/Flex V-Buckle Belt, designed for seamless integration with its Waist/Flex compatible pants.

Its standout feature is a magnetic Fidlock V-Buckle that allows for fast, effortless, one-handed opening, even in stressful or physically demanding scenarios. The design ensures a secure hold without compromising comfort or mobility.

Enhanced breathability and ergonomic shaping prevent pressure points, while removable plastic reinforcements give wearers the flexibility to adjust the belt’s rigidity based on their needs, whether for high-mobility tasks or extended periods of wear.

Compatible exclusively with select UF PRO pants—suchas the P-40 Urban Gen.2 Pants, P-40 Blu-Flex Jeans, P-40 Mark I Range Pants, P-40 Ranger Shorts, Striker X Gen.2 Combat Pants, and Striker TT Combat Pants—the Waist/Flex V-Buckle Belt ensures a tailored fit through UF PRO’s Waist/Flex system.

This launch follows the recent release of the Waist/FlexBelt and highlights UF PRO’s commitment to offering professionals more choice with practical, field-ready solutions.

For more product details, visit: ufpro.com/int/accessories/waist-flex-vbuckle-belt

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, International, Load Carrying, Press Release | Comments Off on UF PRO Expands Tactical Belt Line with New Waist/Flex V-Buckle Belt

FirstSpear Friday Focus 6/27/2025: No Bubbles No Troubles V6 T-Shirt

Friday, June 27th, 2025

The NO BUBBLES, NO TROUBLES V6 T-shirt is the latest evolution of a fan-favorite design, bringing a fresh new look without sacrificing the attitude and comfort that’s made it a staple.

Crafted from an ultra-soft cotton/poly blend, it offers breathable, all-day wear ideal for high-paced days or laid-back weekends. The shirt features a bold graphic on the back that pays tribute to stealth and precision, offering a subtle nod to those in the know. On the front, a vibrant aqua blue skull logo sits cleanly over the left chest.

The athletic cut and side-seamed construction ensure a flattering, comfortable fit that moves with you. Whether you’re on duty, at the range, or off-grid, this tee adapts to your pace. Lightweight and durable, it balances performance with effortless style. Screen printed in the USA, it carries a mark of quality and pride in every detail.

Ideal for anyone who values comfort, performance, and a bit of grit. FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting edge-tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train.

For more information visit First-Spear.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post, Morale | Comments Off on FirstSpear Friday Focus 6/27/2025: No Bubbles No Troubles V6 T-Shirt

Sky’s the Limit: 200th Combat Weather Flight

Friday, June 27th, 2025

SANDSTON, Va. —

Weather can be one of the most unpredictable and impactful elements of warfare. Whether it’s a rainstorm that delays the launch of an aircraft, or a sudden snowstorm that hampers mobility on the ground, the 200th Combat Weather Flight’s role in forecasting and analyzing weather conditions directly contributes to military operational effectiveness.

As experts in meteorology, personnel within the 200th CWS, 192nd Wing, Virginia Air National Guard, provide essential weather information to commanders, pilots and state leaders to mitigate weather-related risks. Geographically separated from the 192nd Wing and based in Sandston, the 200th CWS provides support for both state and federal missions forecasting for Army National Guard aviation and hazardous weather domestic response operations.

“They see the weather forecast and meteorological information we provide as a form of intelligence to lean on and help define operational movements,” said Master Sgt. Walter Raymond, 200th CWS superintendent. “Weather conditions can affect so much of flying operations; commanders rely on us to deliver accurate, location-specific assessments that shape logistical and tactical decisions.”

In January 2025, after a blizzard swept the state leaving roads impassable and thousands without power, the 200th CWS once again demonstrated their expertise and readiness. Snowfall and temperatures plunged below freezing causing flooding at Richmond’s water treatment plant and leaving residents in Richmond and surrounding areas without water for days. As the state prepared to mobilize resources, the 200th CWS provided critical data that allowed the state to plan effective response strategies.

“The blizzard was a great demonstration of the team’s adaptability to the variety of situations they face,” said Lt. Col. Michael Johnson, 200th CWS commander. “Each winter storm or hurricane is different in what its impact can be. It’s driven a lot by our joint force leaders, and our people are able to react and recognize which weather information is pertinent in each scenario based on what the demands are on the commonwealth.”

Senior Airman Victoria Tuell has been a weather forecaster with the VaANG for four years and has provided critical support during major weather events, including Hurricanes Helena and Milton. She also emphasized the unique and rewarding opportunity to partner with sister services.

“I love collaborating with the Army,” said Tuell. “ Being able to work alongside another branch of service really helps to build those relationships. That collaborative effort really shines through, especially when helping our local community.”

From natural disasters to daily mission support, the 200th Combat Weather Flight remains at the forefront of operational readiness—proving that when it comes to safeguarding lives and achieving objectives, weather is far more than just a forecast.

By SSgt Nilsa Garcia, 192nd Wing

Posted in Air Force, Forces Focus, Guest Post | Comments Off on Sky’s the Limit: 200th Combat Weather Flight