Admin | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for the ‘Admin’ Category

Former Soldier-Turned-Contractor Found Guilty of Stealing Over $1 Million of MREs in El Paso

Sunday, July 5th, 2026

EL PASO, Texas – A federal jury convicted a former U.S. Army civilian contractor in El Paso for stealing more than 200 pallets of Meals-Ready-to-Eat (MREs) valued at approximately $1,120,000, announced U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas, Justin R. Simmons. The case is being prosecuted in support of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Joseph Lavar Davis, 47, was named along with three other co-defendants in a two-count indictment on Feb. 12, 2025, for conspiracy to commit theft of government property and a substantive count of theft of government property between Feb. 24, 2020, and Aug. 12, 2020.

On Aug. 12, 2020, FBI and Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division agents executed a search warrant at a civilian warehouse in El Paso, where they found about 100 pallets of MREs. The investigation revealed that the owner of the company using the warehouse was purchasing the MREs from individuals who had stolen them from Ft. Bliss.

Each of the indicted individuals played a role in the scheme, which involved a civilian contractor who knew how to request and pick up the MREs, a soldier to assist in picking up and transporting the MREs, an intermediary between the buyer of the MREs and these two individuals, and the civilian who sold the MREs online.

The investigation showed a scheme involving false paperwork to obtain MREs from Ft. Bliss, truck rentals to transport the MREs, coordination among the co-conspirators to pick up and deliver the MREs, communications and financial transactions between the co-conspirators.

While in the Army, Davis held a position in food service supply where he gained knowledge of the process to obtain MREs. Upon retirement, he was hired into a similar position as a civilian contractor and used that position to exploit the process and steal MREs from Ft. Bliss.

Davis created false requests, rented trucks to transport the MRE pallets, and picked up or arranged for others to pick up the MREs from Ft. Bliss. Davis also coordinated various individuals involved to obtain, deliver, and receive payment for the MREs. Davis both negotiated the sales price and received payment for the MREs.

“Joseph Davis betrayed the very country he once swore to protect in an effort to satisfy his own selfish ambition and a jury of his peers held him accountable for it,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons. “Rooting out fraud that undermines our government and our military readiness is a priority of this administration. I want to thank our Assistant U.S. Attorneys, Lori Hughes and Mallory Rasmussen, as well as our support staff and law enforcement partners, for their excellent work in bringing this fraudster to justice. Their dedication resulted in a win for the Western District of Texas, a win for Justice, and a win for the American people.”

“This conviction should send a clear message the FBI and our law enforcement partners at the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division make it a priority to bring to justice those who resort to theft of government property for ill-gotten gain”, said Jarod Brown, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI El Paso Field Office. “We are stronger when we work together to seek justice and will continue to combat these issues through strong partnerships.”

The FBI investigated the case with assistance from the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lori Hughes and Mallory Rasmussen are prosecuting the case.

From U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Texas

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (‘Fraud Division’). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

Posted in Admin, Press Release, Veterans | 2 Comments »

New Ammo-Linking Machine to Save Air Force Millions

Thursday, July 2nd, 2026

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —

The 1st Special Operations Wing introduced a new 30 mm ammunition-linking machine at Hurlburt Field on April 21, 2026, an innovation set to save the Air Force millions by repurposing rounds from retiring A-10 Thunderbolt IIs for use on AC-130J Ghostriders.

The initiative stems from the planned future retirement of the A-10, which will leave millions of 30 mm rounds without an assigned platform. The Air Force plans to transfer several hundred thousand of those rounds a year to Air Force Special Operations Command for use on the gunships.

However, this transfer presented a logistical hurdle: the A-10 employs unlinked ammunition, while the AC-130J requires continuous belts for automatic, high-rate feeding. The new machine bridges this gap by connecting up to 15 rounds in seconds, shifting munitions management directly into the hands of Airmen rather than expensive external vendors.

AFSOC has forged a partnership with the 116th Maintenance Squadron at Robins Air Force Base to accelerate operational efficiency. By integrating the specialized manpower and dedicated logistical infrastructure of the 116th MXS, this strategic initiative enhances our operational footprint while securing approximately $4 million in annual cost savings for the Air Force, directly reinvesting resources into warfighter readiness.

“Vendors wanted roughly $9 million to do 200,000 rounds,” said a munitions functional manager assigned to Air Force Special Operations Command. “It’ll just cost the command around $10,000 in shipping charges to move ammo, but it’s a direct-cost savings.”

The increased availability of ammunition will also support more consistent training among aircrews, increasing operational effectiveness.

“Currently, we’ve restricted the air crews on how much ammo they can shoot,” said the munitions functional manager. “Being able to bring on all these extra millions of rounds from the A-10, we can get back up to a higher standard for our air crews to train at a much lower cost.”

On the ground, the transition is expected to be seamless for maintainers.

“It doesn’t change our process too much,” said a conventional maintenance crew chief assigned to the 1st SOW. “It adds one extra step, but it’s really not much different from what we do on a day-to-day basis.”

AFSOC and its partners are targeting October 2026 for full implementation of the new machine, according to the munitions functional manager.

“It’s neat to see something we’re touching could eventually be implemented for future ammo troops,” said the conventional maintenance crew chief. “I feel really privileged to be a part of that, and I think our guys here feel the same way.”

With implementation on the horizon, the effort reflects the 1st SOW’s broader focus on innovation, devised to support the mission now and reflect the ever-changing global landscape.

By Senior Airman Isabel Tanner

1st Special Operations Wing

Posted in Admin, Air Force, Ammo, Guest Post | Comments Off on New Ammo-Linking Machine to Save Air Force Millions

TacJobs – Designer at Shaw Concepts

Wednesday, July 1st, 2026

What a great opportunity for an up and coming fear designer. Like the image says, contact jobs@shaw-concepts.com

Posted in Admin | Comments Off on TacJobs – Designer at Shaw Concepts

Rocket Lab to Acquire Iridium in Historic Deal, Creating A Fully Vertically Integrated Space Powerhouse Primed for Growth

Tuesday, June 30th, 2026

Unites Rocket Lab’s leading launch and satellite manufacturing capabilities with Iridium’s global network, spectrum, and experience to unlock critical space applications.

Adds material revenue scale and is significantly accretive to Rocket Lab’s cash flow generation and profitability.

Long Beach, California and McLean, Virginia. 29 June 2026 – Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab”), a global leader in launch and space systems and Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM) (“Iridium”), a leading provider of global voice, data, and positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) satellite services, today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Rocket Lab will acquire Iridium. Rocket Lab will acquire all the outstanding shares of Iridium common stock for $54 per share in a cash and stock transaction. This represents an enterprise value for Iridium of approximately $8.0 billion.

The acquisition will be one of the most transformative deals in the space industry, joining together two innovative American companies to play a leading role in the U.S. space economy. It merges Rocket Lab’s leading launch capabilities and satellite manufacturing with Iridium’s global satellite communications network, spectrum, and 500-plus strong partner ecosystem to create a competitive, vertically-integrated space company that designs, builds, launches, and operates its own constellations, delivering critical communications capability to millions of users worldwide.

The transaction will give Rocket Lab an immediate foothold in space-based applications, including both proprietary and standards-based satellite Internet of Things (IoT) and direct-to-device (D2D), PNT, and critical safety-of-life services, creating a formidable challenger in the global telecom market. Rather than simply continuing the Iridium network, Rocket Lab will build upon it to scale into untapped markets and pioneer new space-based services to the benefit of global customers.

Iridium’s globally harmonized L-band spectrum and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network provide a secure, resilient foundation for reliable satellite communications and PNT services across government, defense, aviation, maritime, and commercial markets. Supporting more than 2.55 million active subscribers worldwide, Iridium delivers highly reliable, weather-resilient connectivity and an alternative PNT architecture for applications where Global Positioning Systema (GPS) and other Global Navigation Satellite Systema (GNSS) are degraded or unavailable. Combining Rocket Lab’s launch, spacecraft manufacturing, and space systems expertise with Iridium’s global network and L-band spectrum will accelerate innovation, positioning the combined company to support the development and deployment of Iridium’s next-generation constellation. This includes direct-to-device (D2D/Iridium NTN DirectSM) services, which will grow into an important new capability for U.S. national security and emergency response, helping to ensure reliable, resilient communications when and where they are needed most, particularly where traditional networks are unavailable or compromised.

“This is a defining moment for the space industry and the start of a new era of strategic, accelerated growth for Rocket Lab and Iridium,” said Sir Peter Beck, founder and CEO of Rocket Lab. “Iridium has built the gold standard in secure, safety critical global satellite connectivity. It is relied upon by maritime fleets, the aviation industry, governments, and heavy industrial organizations who operate in the most remote off-the-grid locations. By marrying Iridium’s deep heritage, trusted infrastructure, and highly sought-after spectrum with Rocket Lab’s extensive and proven launch and manufacturing capabilities, we have the capability to unlock entirely new markets. We will go far beyond maintaining a legacy; we are going to build upon it to pioneer next-generation space applications and deliver sought-after capabilities to existing and new customers.”

“As the worlds of space and terrestrial communications continue to converge, more critical services will depend on space-based capabilities,” said Matt Desch, CEO, Iridium. “Success will come from those who can bring new innovations to space quickly and sustain them over time as efficiently as possible. We’re excited about being able to accelerate the next generation of IoT, aviation, maritime, PNT, and national security capabilities, and pursue new innovative applications as part of Rocket Lab – a fully integrated, end-to-end space company. That’s an incredible opportunity for our customers, partners, employees, and stockholders.”

Transaction Highlights:

Strengthens Rocket Lab’s Strategic Vertical Integration: Creates an end-to-end space company spanning launch, spacecraft, spectrum, and on-orbit communications services through a proprietary network. Expected to eliminate third-party launch costs for constellation deployment and replenishment and captures launch margin internally while guaranteeing orbital access as launch capacity tightens, ensuring continuity of service to customers.

Unlocks Entry to Space Applications Market: Provides Rocket Lab with immediate access to a proven constellation of LEO satellites and an established global communications customer base, realizing the company’s long-term strategic vision to expand beyond launch services and spacecraft manufacturing into a vertically-integrated space applications company with recurring revenue from satellite services.

Provides Access to Globally-Coordinated Spectrum: Adds globally-coordinated L-band spectrum that enables reliable user communications.

Unifies Two Trusted Government Partners: The transaction combines two deeply trusted, long-standing defense partners, combining their specialized strengths to deliver highly resilient, next-generation capabilities directly to the warfighter across denied, degraded, and disadvantaged environments.

Accelerates Growth and New Market Opportunities: Positions the combined entity to deliver next-generation satellite communications, resilient PNT, and emerging defense and commercial space services.

Diversifies Financial Profile with Recurring Cash Flow Streams: In 2025, Iridium delivered $871.7M revenue1, $495M OEBITDA[1] or 57% OEBITDA margin1, providing substantial recurring cash flow to fund growth.

Transaction Details

Under the terms of the transaction, Iridium stockholders will receive $27.00 in cash and a number of shares of Rocket Lab common stock calculated pursuant to an exchange ratio (subject to a collar) for each share of Iridium common stock outstanding at the closing. The collar is banded from $67.50 to $112.50. The transaction has a notional value of $54.00 per share of Iridium common stock, implying an enterprise value for Iridium of approximately $8.0 billion.

Complete details on the calculation of the exchange ratio will be in the transaction agreement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The transaction is expected to be completed in mid-2027, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including approval of Iridium stockholders and required regulatory approvals.

The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of Iridium and Rocket Lab. Moreover, each director of Iridium holding shares of Iridium common stock has entered into a voting agreement to support the transaction.

As part of the transaction, Rocket Lab has received commitments for a $3.6 billion 364-day senior secured bridge term loan facility from Deutsche Bank and Wells Fargo. Rocket Lab intends to fund the cash component of the transaction through a combination of cash from its balance sheet and other debt and equity financing sources.

Advisors

Deutsche Bank Securities is serving as lead financial advisor and Wells Fargo and PJT Partners as financial advisors, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C. is serving as legal counsel, Goodwin Procter LLP as financing counsel and DLA Piper LLP as regulatory counsel to Rocket Lab. Evercore is serving as exclusive financial advisor, Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is serving as legal counsel, Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP is serving as regulatory counsel, and Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher is serving as strategic communications advisor to Iridium.

Investor Presentation

An investor presentation discussing the transaction is hosted on Rocket Lab’s investor relations website at investors.rocketlabcorp.com.

Posted in Admin, Comms, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Rocket Lab to Acquire Iridium in Historic Deal, Creating A Fully Vertically Integrated Space Powerhouse Primed for Growth

Colt Optics Launches LP5X-P Laser Aiming Device

Tuesday, June 30th, 2026

Michigan (July 6, 2026) – Colt Electro Optics LLC (“Colt Optics”) today announced the launch of the LP5X-P Laser Aiming Device.

Modern weapon systems continue to demand more capability from every accessory mounted to the rail. Professional users need visible and infrared aiming capability, effective illumination, and reliable performance, but they also need to minimize weight, preserve rail space, and avoid unnecessary complexity.

The LP5X-P was developed around a simple objective: deliver maximum capability in the smallest package possible.

Offered by Colt Optics in partnership with Brolis Defense, the LP5X-P is based on a proven laser platform fielded by NATO and allied defense organizations. Colt Optics partnered with Brolis Defense to bring this proven capability to U.S. professional customers, delivering advanced aiming and illumination performance in a remarkably compact, lightweight package.

“At Colt Optics, we focus on products that solve real-world problems for professional users,” said Dennis Finnegan, Chief Operating Officer of Colt Optics. “The LP5X-P delivers an exceptional amount of capability without adding unnecessary size, weight, or complexity to the weapon system. Through our partnership with Brolis Defense, we are able to bring a proven solution to U.S. customers who demand performance, reliability, and versatility.”

LP5X-P High-Power Laser Aiming DeviceMeasuring just 3.7 inches in length and weighing only 5.9 ounces, the LP5X-P was engineered to require minimum rail mounting space and reduce overall weapon system weight without sacrificing capability.

At the heart of the LP5X-P are four independent emitters: a green visible aiming laser, an infrared aiming laser, a focusable infrared illuminator, and a speckle-free VCSEL infrared flood illuminator. Together, these systems provide users with the flexibility to adapt to a wide range of operational environments and lighting conditions.

The LP5X-P’s illumination system was designed to simplify operation in the field. As the illuminator is adjusted from a focused beam to a wider pattern, the system automatically transitions to the VCSEL flood illuminator at its widest setting, providing broad, speckle-free illumination optimized for close-range observation and situational awareness. As the illuminator is narrowed, the system automatically returns to the focusable infrared illuminator, ensuring the appropriate illumination solution is always available when needed.

The LP5X-P also features Training, Low, and High output modes, allowing users to tailor system performance to a variety of training and operational requirements.

One of the system’s most valuable features is its fully co-aligned laser architecture. Once the aiming laser is zeroed, all laser and illumination systems remain aligned, eliminating the need to independently zero multiple emitters and simplifying setup for the end user.

An integrated flip-up front sight is incorporated directly into the housing, providing additional capability without increasing overall system size or complexity.

Built around a rugged glass fiber-reinforced polymer housing, the LP5X-P is engineered to withstand demanding real-world environments while maintaining an exceptionally lightweight profile. It is waterproof, shock resistant, and designed to operate reliably in temperatures ranging from -32°F to 159°F.

The result is a laser aiming and illumination device that delivers exceptional capability, intelligent illumination management, and professional-grade performance in an incredibly compact package.

As a true high-power laser system, the LP5X-P is available through authorized channels in accordance with applicable regulations.

For more information, visit www.coltoptics.com.

Posted in Admin, Advertiser, Lasers, Press Release | Comments Off on Colt Optics Launches LP5X-P Laser Aiming Device

LBT Wants To Hear Your Gear Stories

Saturday, June 27th, 2026

We want to hear from our favorite people! If our gear has ever been an asset to you in your military service tell us about it. We’d love to tell your story!

Send it to marketing@lbtinc.com with subject line:

LBT STORY

Posted in Admin, Guest Post, Industry | Comments Off on LBT Wants To Hear Your Gear Stories

US Army Ranger Hall of Fame Honors 2026 Inductees for Exemplary Service

Sunday, June 21st, 2026

Columbus, GA – June 15, 2026 – The U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame selected 12 distinguished individuals to be inducted to the Ranger Hall of Fame on June 24, 2026, during a ceremony held at Fort Benning, Georgia.

Established in 1992, the Ranger Hall of Fame honors those who have demonstrated extraordinary valor, leadership, and commitment to the Ranger Creed. The 2026 inductees represent a diverse group of leaders whose service spans from WWII to modern-day operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

2026 Ranger Hall of Fame Inductees:

• GEN Daniel B. Allyn – General Allyn is a warrior-leader whose 36-year career exemplified the Ranger ethos. As a captain serving in South Korea, he sought assignment to the 75th Ranger Regiment and quickly proved himself as commander of Company C, 1st Ranger Battalion. He led the night combat parachute assault to seize Torrijos Airport during Operation Just Cause. He later commanded 3rd Ranger Battalion, leaving an enduring mark on the Regiment. Throughout his career, General Allyn embodied selfless service, combat valor, and unwavering commitment to the Ranger legacy, making him a truly deserving member of the Ranger Hall of Fame.

• SGM Colin M. Boley – Throughout his 26 years of service he continually led the way in all assignments and missions as a leader. Ranger Boley served more than 12 years in the 75th Ranger Regiment serving in many positions from Team Leader to 1SG with 15 combat deployments totaling more than 7 cumulative years in a combat environment throughout his career. SGM(R) Colin Boley has proven to be a competent and motivational leader of men always leading from the front and setting the example for Rangers to follow. He embodies what a true warrior should be, while serving a great nation in time of war.

• MG Clarence K.K. Chinn – Throughout a distinguished 36-year career, Ranger Chinn not only upheld but exemplified the Ranger Creed, demonstrating extraordinary leadership and an enduring commitment to the Ranger ethos. In every assignment, from Chief of Operations at SOCOM to DCG at USASOC, CG at JRTC & Fort Polk and Army South, Ranger Chinn’s professionalism, character, and leadership set the standard. His combat experience, mentorship, and leadership across Ranger and conventional forces shaped thousands of soldiers and left an enduring mark on Ranger history.

• GEN Richard D. Clarke – General (Ret.) Richard D. Clarke is inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for distinguished and faithful service to our country, and for dedicating his life and career to the values set forth in the Ranger Creed. His military career spanned close to 40 years and included multiple combat deployments to Desert Storm, Joint Guardian, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Inherent Resolve, New Dawn; spending more than five years deployed in support of combat operations. He played a fundamental role in securing the nation and its interest during a period of complex, volatile, and unpredictable threats from strategic competitors and violent extremist organizations. Gen. Clarke’s dynamic leadership, professional competence, and unyielding personal commitment was essential to the success of numerous missions of national importance and vital to the security of the United States of America.

• MAJ Peter Dencker – Ranger Dencker was commissioned Infantry from West Point in 1969 and volunteered for Vietnam. In August 1970 he was assigned as a platoon leader in 1/7th Cav. In December 1970, he reported to H/75th as the XO. From March 1971 till June 1972, he Commanded H/75th. His final assignment was teaching and coaching football at West Point. His awards include the Silver Star, Purple Heart, Bronze Star/w “V” (5 OLC), Army Commendation Medal/w “V ”(1 OLC), Air Medal/w “V” (7 OLC), numerous other US and foreign Awards. H/75th was the most decorated unit during the Vietnam conflict.

• COL Larry Perino – Recognized for serving our nation for 25 years and five months in a career defined by courage, leadership, and devotion to the Ranger Creed. On October 3–4, 1993, as a platoon leader with B Company, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, he led his Rangers during the Battle of Mogadishu as part of Task Force Ranger and Operation Gothic Serpent. Since retirement, Colonel Perino has continued to mentor Rangers, support alumni organizations, and share lessons from combat with today’s warriors. In 2021, he was awarded the Silver Star, presented in 2022 at Fort Benning, Georgia.

• MAJ Douglas Philippone – Recognized for his distinguished military career in the 75th Ranger Regiment in 1990 as an enlisted Anti-Tank Gunner in 1st Battalion. During his time in 3rd Ranger Battalion, Doug deployed four times to Afghanistan and Iraq. He led more than 100 direct action missions and earned three Bronze Star Medal awards, including two for valor, along with a Joint Service Commendation Medal for valor. Throughout his service, he embodied every stanza of the Ranger Creed.

• CSM Walter M. Rakow – Dedicated almost 50 years of service to his country on active duty, and as a civil servant, living the Ranger Creed every day. He held himself to the highest standards, whether on the field of battle or during peacetime. CSM Rakow’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to faith, family, and country. His “dynamic” personality and direct approach to leadership inspired countless generations of soldiers and leaders through his unwavering commitment to the Army, the mission, and to those with whom he served.

• SFC Matthew L. Rierson– Recognized for extraordinary service, exceptional leadership, and a lifelong embodiment of the Ranger Creed. Throughout his distinguished career, he demonstrated remarkable courage, tactical mastery, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Rangers and the nation. Sergeant First Class Rierson’s legacy endures through the Rangers he inspired, the standards he set, and the example he provided of what it means to move further, faster, and fight harder. His induction into the Ranger Hall of Fame honors a Ranger whose life and service reflect the highest traditions of the Regiment and the United States Army.

• GEN Stephen J. Townsend – Recognized for distinguished service to our nation, unparalleled leadership, and a lifetime devoted to the values of the Ranger Creed. Throughout four decades of service, General Townsend always strived to live up to the charge of Abram’s Charter to the Rangers by demonstrating unwavering dedication to excellence and setting a steadfast personal example of courage, integrity, and honor. His exceptional leadership reflects the highest traditions of the Rangers, the United States Army, and the United States Department of Defense.

• Blair Brown (Honorary) – Celebrated for more than a decade of exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to the U.S. Army Ranger community through his role as Vice President and Executive Director of the National Ranger Memorial Foundation. Blair’s service is also deeply personal, shaped by the example of his father, Major Roger Brown, a 2004 inductee of the Ranger Hall of Fame. His sustained contributions reflect exceptional dedication, integrity, and impact in direct support of the Ranger community.

• Candyss Bryant (Honorary) – Celebrated for her extraordinary contributions to the Ranger community. A distinguished nonprofit leader and steadfast advocate, she brings nearly three decades of experience in development, operations, and stakeholder engagement. Bryant has served the Ranger community with unwavering dedication, consistently giving “100% and then some.” Her selfless service, disciplined work ethic, and commitment to excellence embody the spirit of the Ranger Creed. As President of the Ranger Legacy Foundation, Bryant leads the vision and development of the Ranger Legacy Center, a transformative initiative dedicated to preserving the history ad inspiring future generations of the values, and enduring legacy of our Rangers.

The Ranger Hall of Fame ceremony underscores the enduring legacy of the Ranger community and its commitment to excellence, leadership, and service.

About the Ranger Hall of Fame:

The Ranger Hall of Fame was established to honor and preserve the contributions of America’s most extraordinary Rangers.

Inductees are selected based on their distinguished service and embodiment of the Ranger Creed.

For more information, please visit Ranger Legacy Foundation.

Posted in Admin, Army, Press Release, Profession of Arms | Comments Off on US Army Ranger Hall of Fame Honors 2026 Inductees for Exemplary Service

Eyes on the Skies

Saturday, June 20th, 2026

The 820th Base Defense Group (BDG) conducted counter-small unmanned aerial system (CsUAS) training, May 7, 2026, reinforcing its focus on preparing air base ground defense Airmen to operate in an environment increasingly shaped by unmanned aerial threats.

The training emphasized the purpose, intent and significance of CsUAS integration into base defense operations. Instructors highlighted the growing use of small unmanned aerial systems for reconnaissance, surveillance and potential payload delivery, stressing the importance of early identification, rapid decision-making and integration of CsUAS considerations into existing defensive planning.

“My desire is for the Airmen to understand the importance of this system, with the additional understanding that we are trusting them to execute all battle drills in a moment’s notice to protect the base,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Christopher DeLong, 822nd Base Defense Squadron (BDS) operations officer. “My Airmen, along with sister service members, will be responsible for ensuring our airspace is secured and defended from any hostile drones, so they must understand the enhanced responsibility they have.”

The purpose of the instruction was to establish a shared baseline of understanding across the force. Airmen were briefed on common small unmanned aerial system characteristics, threat indicators, employment methods and hands-on simulated incident instruction. The course also reinforced how CsUAS awareness must be incorporated into routine defensive posture and not treated as a standalone capability.

“Day 1 consists of CsUAS basics and system familiarization. This is the foundation of a member’s ability to work the system efficiently to give leaders the best picture of the battlespace during a quick reaction to a CsUAS incident,” said Tech. Sgt. Matthew Eichner, 822nd BDS flight sergeant and CsUAS course instructor. “Days 2-5 consist of hands-on training through a simulator. The Airmen worked through several battle drills to ensure they are capable of relaying vital information up the chain and supporting and carrying out the decision to implement kinetic and non-kinetic defense measures. This is vital to the protection of personnel and PL assets.”

The intent of the training was to standardize knowledge and improve overall readiness across defensive teams. Instruction focused on how CsUAS capabilities fit within a layered defense approach, integrating sensors, communications networks and both kinetic and non-kinetic response options.

The significance of the training lies in its contribution to installation protection and mission assurance. As small unmanned aerial systems become more accessible and more frequently employed in contested environments, base defense forces are required to adapt their tactics, techniques and procedures to maintain effectiveness against emerging threats.

“My three main takeaways focus on teamwork, military advancement and adapting to threats,” said Staff Sgt. Sawyer Logan, 822nd BDS CsUAS program manager. “First, successful operations require a strong team of skilled operators working together to make fast, high-stakes decisions. Second, the military is constantly innovating and fielding new systems to better protect our bases and personnel. Finally, as our enemies improve their capabilities, we must also adapt to find faster, more efficient ways to counter them.”

The 820th BDG’s emphasis on CsUAS training reflects a broader shift toward integrated base defense operations that combine awareness, detection and response capabilities into a cohesive framework. By increasing Airmen’s understanding of the threat environment and available response options, the unit strengthens its ability to protect critical assets, maintain operational continuity and reduce reaction time during potential incursions.

The training concluded with a reinforcement of key principles and an emphasis on continued professional development as CsUAS capabilities and threat systems evolve.

Story by Senior Airman Iain Stanley

93rd Air Ground Operations Wing

Posted in Admin, Air Force, C-UAS, Guest Post | Comments Off on Eyes on the Skies