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Archive for the ‘Armor’ Category

US Army Selects Kongsberg to Develop Wireless Lethality for its Light and Medium Robotic Combat Vehicles

Monday, July 6th, 2020

Contract continues program maturity, supports future lethality requirements and provides commonality with the U.S. Marine Corps

JOHNSTOWN, PA, July 1, 2020 – The U.S. Army has selected Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace to provide a wireless fire control capability to support its future medium caliber lethality needs for its light and medium Robotic Combat Vehicles (RCV). This decision creates a common architecture across all current robotic lethality fire control for crew-served, medium caliber and anti-tank weapons. In addition to the fire control architectures for both RCV-Light (RCV-L) and RCV-Medium (RCV-M), Kongsberg weapon stations – CROWS J and MCT-30 respectively – have been selected as Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) for the Army’s RCV phase 2 experimentation.

“By overcoming the challenges presented by remote lethality, Kongsberg is paving the way for commonality across a variety of vehicle platforms – manned, optionally manned or unmanned,” said Scott Burk, vice president, Land Systems, Kongsberg Defense. “Beyond lethality and scalability, in conjunction with other Kongsberg medium caliber systems and medium weight systems being delivered, soldiers have the advantage of service-wide commonality. This will have tremendous positive impacts on training, provisioning and sustaining all U.S. Army weapon stations.”

This latest contract for wireless fire-control architecture augments previous awards to Kongsberg for the wireless fire-control architecture for the U.S. Army RCV-L program and the Multi-User, Multi-Station (MUMS) distributed fire-control architecture. The MUMS architecture was developed against a U.S. Marine Corps requirement for “one over many, many over one” control of RWS. The MUMS architecture is currently being applied to all Marine RWS deliveries including systems for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV).

Kongsberg demonstrated its wireless fire control capability for the RCV-L architecture, firing both a Javelin anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) as well as the weapon station’s 12.7 mm machine gun (.50 M2) from a legacy CROWS M153 mounted on an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV). The June 2019 live-fire demonstration was carried out at Redstone Test Center in Alabama. Kongsberg also successfully demonstrated secure transmissions of video and fire-control data including command signals over radio from the weapon station and the missile. Kongsberg will perform a similar U.S. government-sponsored demonstration of the medium caliber wireless capability later this year.

The Kongsberg MCT-30 is the first remotely-operated turret to be qualified and fielded in the United States. The system provides highly accurate firepower for wheeled or tracked combat vehicles and is remotely controlled and operated from a protected position inside the vehicle compartment for optimized crew safety.

Kongsberg is the world’s leading manufacturer of Remote Weapon Stations (RWS), having delivered nearly 20,000 RWS units to more than 20 countries worldwide. Kongsberg is also the sole provider of RWS and remote turrets to the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps. All RWS and remote turrets bound for U.S. customers are manufactured in the Kongsberg Johnstown, PA facility. The company takes great pride in its continued support to, and for the United States, U.S. employees, and U.S. supply base.   

For more information, visit kongsberg.com

TYR Tuesday – IDTOUR VTS |Virtual Trade Show| Shield & Dolly System

Tuesday, June 30th, 2020

Episode Three of Innovate or Die® Tour Virtual Trade Show #IDTOURVTS is here!

Episode Three:

IDTOUR VTS |Virtual Trade Show| Shield & Dolly System

New episode launching every Tuesday.

New CQB Level 3A Shields Launch: Summer 2020

Patent Pending Shield & Dolly System Available Now:

www.tyrtactical.com/products/list/ballistic-shields-and-armor

What is IDTOURVTS?

Our mission has always been about protecting those who run towards the threat.  To that end, we created the Innovate or Die® Tour and Mobile Showroom. Over the past couple years it has allowed us to meet you face-to-face, gather your feedback and answer your questions.

Life has been put on hold for many people around the world, but you have not stopped risking your safety and health against all the threats we face today.

We can’t wait to meet you on the road again.

Thank you to the men and women of the armed forces, first responders and health care professionals who continue to put their lives on the line.  You haven’t stopped working and neither will we.

Episode One:

IDTOUR VTS |Virtual Trade Show| PICO-DS & DSX Plate Carriers

Episode Two:

IDTOUR VTS |Virtual Trade Show| The Ultimate Range Bag

Safariland Introduces FoxFury Integrated Light / Handle for its Patented X Series Ballistic Shields

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2020

Features two handle options: horizontal or the exclusive 3-position handle co-developed by Safariland

JACKSONVILLE, Florida – The Safariland Group (“Safariland”), a leading global provider of safety and survivability products designed for the public safety, military, professional and outdoor markets, today introduced its next generation Safariland® PROTECH® X Series ballistic shields featuring the FoxFury® Taker B70 integrated shield light and handle. The X Series lightweight shield with its integrated lens cap combined with the feature-laden light / handle design provides a clean look and further reduces the overall weight. Offered in two handle styles, Safariland partnered with FoxFury®, an industry leader in shield lighting, to develop the 3-position integrated handle design offered exclusively in the Safariland brand of shields.

“We know that law enforcement’s needs continue to evolve, so we are continuously sourcing and developing products in or to offer the most relevant products for today’s demands,” said Mark Cardey, manager of engineering and Hard Armor R&D for Safariland. “We’ve been able to do just that with the new X Series shields that combine new technology in light attachment, with an exclusive handle feature all in a durable, yet lightweight product.”

The X Series models with the FoxFury Taker B70 Integrated light and handle feature a top-of-the line LED light with the functionality merged into the handle design. The cord-free light is bolted to the shield through the handle and is powered by six CR123 batteries which are incorporated into the handle, eliminating the need for battery packs and loose, external wiring typically seen on ballistic shield lights. Two handle options are offered: the standard horizontal handle, or a 3-position handle design co-developed by Safariland in partnership with FoxFury. The exclusive 3-position handle is ambidextrous and features ergonomically designed pressure switches which are easily activated by the thumb.

The powerful light features two settings: ON/OFF setting or a Tactical setting with three modes, momentary, continuous or Turbo-Strobe™. The light also features a Kill/Deactivation Switch so the light cannot be accidently activated. The light is bolted to the shield through the handle and features separate circuitry on each of its two rows of LEDs so that if one row is damaged the operator can still maintain visibility. The powerful and durable lighting platform is engineered from a molded nylon 66 blend that is fire and impact resistant, and waterproof.

Safariland’s X Series type IIIA ballistic shields made with Honeywell Spectra Shield® material feature a patented process which molds the lens cap into the ballistic composition of the shield at the time of pressing. This results in a lens cap design of the same ballistic material as the rest of the shield. This streamlined design eliminates points of weakness where the shield and components meet – drill holes and seam lines. The seamless molded viewport in this boltless design allows for a shield that can be 20 percent lighter without sacrificing protection and ensuring ballistic integrity.

The Safariland PROTECH X Series ballistic shield with integrated light and handle and is available in all X Series models at MSRPs ranging from $2,980 – $3,490. Available to order now.

For more information, visit Safariland.com.

Milrem Robotics Revealed Type-X RCV with John Cockerill CPWS II Turret

Thursday, June 18th, 2020

Tallinn, June 17, 2020 – Milrem Robotics and John Cockerill Defense today showcased the Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle with the Cockerill Protected Weapons Station Gen. II (CPWS II) to select military forces from around the world.

The Type-X vehicle chassis is a revolutionary design for a mobile modular multi-mission vehicle that provides a platform for a family of unmanned armored vehicles. It is the first combat vehicle that is purposefully designed to be unmanned intended to be an integral part of mechanized units.

The Type-X is designed to deploy at a weight below the 12-ton mark for rapid deployment into the combat theater, either by parachute or by heavy lift helicopter.

A combination of augmented Artificial Intelligence (AI) and a remote system operator, the Type-X is a tracked vehicle with armor protection that can supplement troop formations or operate independently, in unmanned formations.

“The Type-X is modular and will accept larger turrets, but current turret designs are optimized for operations under armor,” Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics stated. “The CPWS II is a step in the right direction, as it is designed from the beginning to be a remotely controlled configuration (unmanned) and easy access from the outside of the turret, allowing for reload and maintenance,” Väärsi added.

Simon Haye, the Chief Marketing Officer for John Cockerill Defense adds: “One of the first realistic roles for unmanned fighting vehicles will be convoy defense and perimeter or base defense. The Type-X with the CPWS can be placed in the front and rear of a convoy to provide additional eyes and firepower for the convoy. Rarely does a convoy have available 25mm firepower and given the system is unmanned, tactics like rushing an ambush site, or maneuvering on the enemy’s position are now legitimate options for a convoy under fire. The lead / follow functions of unmanned vehicles is well developed technology and spreading some operator stations through the convoy can provide redundancy and quick response. Further FOB security can now be in the form of a mobile unmanned fighting vehicle. Instead of putting soldiers at risk on the wire, these Guardian Systems can provide relentless observation and the capability to maneuver and disperse an attack instead of just absorbing it.”

The CPWS II is a low profile, light weight turret, with a revolutionary hatch opening and can mount the M242 25mm X 137mm Bushmaster cannon or the 230LF, 30mm X 113mm cannon. The CPWS II is a remotely operated turret, designed to fit onto 4X4 and 6X6 vehicles. It is the revolutionary hatch, which can operate in three modes that makes the turret a desirable selection for unmanned vehicle operations.

The opening roof capability will allow a rapid reloading of the unmanned vehicle from the outside. Equipped with a 360-degree panoramic sight, with CCD, thermal and fused imaging, the CPWS represents a suitable partner to the Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle. The turret can come with Anti-Tank Missiles such as Alcotan, MMP, Javelin or SPIKE.

“Eventually, combining self-driving unmanned logistics vehicles with the Type-X and you can reduce the personnel required for a convoy to a few operators, while actually increasing the capabilities of defending the convoy,” Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics said. “This is not just a leap forward in force protection but a force multiplier.”

During the demonstration Milrem Robotics unveiled their Intelligent Functions Kit (IFK), which converts any vehicle into a self-driving or remotely controlled one. Milrem Robotics’ IFK is a modular hardware and software kit providing ROS2 based environment for different functionalities, which can be provided by Milrem Robotics, the customer or a third party. The IFK has been developed for Milrem Robotics’ THeMIS UGV and Type-X but can be adapted to any other vehicle with drive-by-wire integration.

Both companies are excited about the future cooperation. “We are looking forward to developing a wide range of solutions with John Cockerill, as they have experience, not only in the medium caliber range but they are known for their expertise in the 90mm and 105mm cannons.” Väärsi stated.

TYR Tuesday – IDTOUR VTS |Virtual Trade Show| PICO-DS & DSX Plate Carriers

Tuesday, June 16th, 2020

Our mission has always been about protecting those who run towards the threat.  To that end, we created the Innovate or Die® Tour and Mobile Showroom. Over the past couple years it has allowed us to meet you face-to-face, gather your feedback and answer your questions.

Life has been put on hold for many people around the world, but you have not stopped risking your safety and health against all the threats we face today.

We can’t wait to meet you on the road again.

Thank you to the men and women of the armed forces, first responders and health care professionals who continue to put their lives on the line. You haven’t stopped working and neither will we.

Introducing the Innovate or Die® Tour Virtual Trade Show #IDTOURVTS. New episode launching every Tuesday.

Episode One:

IDTOUR VTS |Virtual Trade Show| PICO-DS & DSX Plate Carriers

IDTOUR VTS |Virtual Trade Show| Preview

Premier Body Armor Offers Custom Armor Inserts with Tru-Spec Concealed Armor Shirt

Friday, June 12th, 2020

GASTONIA, N.C. – June 12, 2020 – Premier Body Armor announces a new solution for low-profile personal protection: Custom Armor Inserts for the Tru-Spec Concealed Armor Shirt. Premier Body Armor’s new Level IIIA inserts have been designed especially for the Tru-Spec Concealed Armor Shirt. At just .8 pounds per panel, the whole package weighs roughly 2 pounds and allows for protection without the bulk of a vest or the need for extra or specialized clothing.

“At Premier Body Armor, we provide complete body armor systems to defend against handguns, shotguns and rifles,” said Alex Stewart, Vice President of Operations at Premier Body Armor. “We are committed to finding new ways to meet the ever-changing needs of our customers. Tru-Spec’s Concealed Armor Shirt offers a solid, yet subtle foundation for personal protection. Our new Custom Armor Inserts are the first of their kind to be made especially for the Tru-Spec shirt, and we’re proud to offer this new pairing to our customers.” 

Premier Body Armor’s Level IIIA panels are designed and tested to NIJ Standard-0101.06.  Though they are just .22” thick, these panels will stop 9mm, .40, .45, and .44 magnum rounds. Panels are Special Threat Tested to withstand 12 gauge buckshot and slugs, Liberty Civil Defense 9mm, and FN 5.7×28. Premier Body Armor’s panels are also stab and slash resistant. Each Custom Armor Insert is guaranteed by a 5 year Incident Replacement Warranty.

Tru-Spec’s Concealed Armor Shirt is constructed from TRU-DRI™ moisture wicking 85% polyester/15% spandex compression fabric. The top-loading pockets on the front and back are bordered by polyester mesh and 2mm of foam and have reinforced corners to prevent plate shifting.

For those who already own a Tru-Spec Concealed Armor Shirt, Panels are available separately.

Learn more at premierbodyarmor.com.

US Army Adopts New Path Forward for Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle

Friday, June 5th, 2020

OMFV adopts new path forward from lessons learned

FORT MEADE, Md. — The Army’s G-8 discussed a new strategy for the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle, following lessons learned after its first request for prototypes was canceled earlier this year.

The OMFV, which will replace the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, remains on track to be fielded to both active and National Guard armored brigade combat teams starting in fiscal year 2028.

About $4.6 billion is currently invested in the program from fiscal 2020-2026, said Lt. Gen. James Pasquarette during a presentation for the Future Ground Combat Vehicles virtual conference Thursday.

“The initial solicitation required a very aggressive set of initial capabilities on an equally aggressive timeline beyond what our partners in both government and industry could provide,” he said. “To be clear, the Army is absolutely committed to the OMFV program.”

Despite the adjustment costing the Army about $23 million in unrecoverable funds, he said it was still important to reset the program’s azimuth in the right direction.

“Rarely than fail late after spending billions of dollars, like we’ve done in the past many times, the Army learned early and inexpensively,” he said.

After pulling the solicitation, the Army garnered feedback from government and industry partners to chart the next move.

Army Futures Command then adjusted the traditional requirements approach by defining a set of nine characteristics to better focus efforts, he said.

The characteristics — survivability, mobility, growth, lethality, weight, logistics, transportability, manning, and training — will further be refined through a cooperative and iterative process with industry, digital design competitions and Soldier touchpoints to produce the final prototypes for testing, AFC officials said in February.

“The Army believes that this adjusted requirement strategy preserves flexibility much longer into the acquisition process before necessitating significant hardware investments,” Pasquarette said.

The general said the new strategy will spark innovation and competition through a collaborative process that offers several opportunities for Soldiers to provide input.

“Throughout this process, Soldiers will assist the Army and industry partners in refining the vehicle’s characteristics in design and forming the most feasible and acceptable set of technical requirements for final production,” he said.

While there will be challenges due to the complexity of such a program, he said he believes some industry partners will thrive in the non-traditional acquisition setting.

“This strategy is an approach the Army must take to harness the power of innovation of worldwide industry partners, drive new ideas through competition and produce a new infantry combat vehicle that Soldiers must have to fight and win against a near-peer threat in the future,” he said.

In the meantime, the Army has also invested $915 million from fiscal 2020-2026 to develop and field the latest A4 versions of Bradley vehicles to armored units starting in the second quarter of the next fiscal year, he said.

The A4 version will have upgrades to the suspension and track, powertrain, electrical system, mission command features, plus other enhancements and accelerated technologies, he added.

“The U.S. Army is committed to providing our Soldiers the best ground combat systems in the world,” he said. “And under Army Futures Command’s direction and oversight, I’m confident that the armored brigade combat team will remain the dominate ground combat formation for decades to come.”

By Sean Kimmons, Army News Service

Hendrick Motorsports’ STEED Supporting Rapid Recovery Efforts

Wednesday, June 3rd, 2020

The last trip I was able to take before the nation started to lockdown over COVID-19 was to the ADS Warfighter Expo at Ft Bragg in mid-March. While there I had the chance to catch up with Rhegan Flanagan of Hendricks Motorsports who was exhibiting the Silent Tactical Energy Enhanced Dismount or STEED.

As a quick reminder, STEED is a lightweight, all-terrain wheeled platform which carries 500 pounds and have a range of 15 to 30 miles on one battery pack. This unit is manually operated by a thumb-controlled throttle at speeds up to 6.5 miles per hour in both forward and reverse. It has a zero degree turn radius, is tactically silent, has zero emissions and is completely submersible.

That’s the textbook answer. But what STEED really is, is a force multiplier enabling one to carry the load of many. Think about it; up to 500 lbs at 6.5 miles per hour, over varied terrain for up to 30 miles. What’s more, it’s electric, so it’s silent and has a zero turn radius for tight spaces.

By that time COVID-19 was definitely with us and it was a matter of time before the nation began to fully mobilize its medical infrastructure to deal with the task at hand. We discussed the many uses of the STEED in possible scenarios from mass casualty events to civil unrest. To be sure, moving casualties and equipment around while wearing full PPE or MOPP gear can be taxing and the STEED’s power assist would sure help. Fortunately, we didn’t see such extreme measures, but the sick certainly needed to be moved at a great than normal rate in the hit zones.

Three months later it turns out, the STEED looks like a great option for the riots currently underway around the US. Bring supplies to the line and evacuate casualties. Hendrick Motorsports has also teamed with TYR Tactical to armor the STEED.

For full details, visit adsinc.com/steed-supporting-rapid-recovery-efforts.