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Archive for the ‘Camo’ Category

Camo – Creating a Mirage

Tuesday, October 4th, 2011

Researchers at University of Dallas in Texas have figured out how to use transparent carbon nanotubes to create photothermal deflection, or as it is more commonly known, a Mirage. In their paper, “Mirage effect from thermally modulated transparent carbon nanotube sheet” they lay out the science. It seems to look pretty good in water but I’m not too sure how it would look for all aspects of observation. Additionally, I’m not too sure how it would be done on land or if it would be as effective. But, for certain underwater applications, it might be just the ticket. Like hiding the entrance to a secret underwater lair for instance.

Via Wired’s Danger Room.

MDM – TenCate (MARPAT-Woodland FROG)

Wednesday, September 28th, 2011

We’ve mentioned it exists and here’s a shot of the new MARPAT-Woodland variant of FROG.

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It’s made from TenCate’s latest Defender-M twill fabric that offers twice the tear strength of the material used just 14 months ago.

MDM – WL Gore

Tuesday, September 27th, 2011

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Reversible camouflage has been done in the past but not utilizing waterproof breathable membranes like GORE-TEX. WL Gore has developed a proof of concept that takes the current APECS garments to the next level. Retaining the 3-layer membrane construction, Gore replaced the tricot liner material with another DWR coated face fabric. Additionally, the actual membrane is a new version designed specifically to provide symmetrical performance no matter which way the clothing is worn. What’s more, by combining a couple of garment design tricks to ensure pockets are accessible no matter which pattern side is showing along with printed lightweight seam tape, they have been able to cut the weight of the garment itself.

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Additionally, by combining two different garments into one, one set becomes redundant and can be cut from the clothing bag. Not only does this make the gear more versatile, but it will save money on several levels. Not only are there fewer garments to purchase overall but there are other intangible savings such as lower contracting requirements, warehousing, and transportation costs across the supply chain as well as once issued.

New garments for use featuring not only MARPAT Woodland and Desert patterns, but also the Navy’s recently adopted NWU Type II and III would help save dollars as we move into a more resource constrained environment.

goremilitary.com

Guess What Showed Up on Our Doorstep Last Week

Monday, September 26th, 2011

It’s definitely coming. We received a package out of the blue from Max at SOD Gear containing a Operative Field Parka (Smock) and Spectre Shirt featuring Hyde Definition’s PenCott Bad Lands.

www.sodgear.com

Orion Design Group

Monday, September 26th, 2011

“MOUNTAIN BORN, LIFESTYLE INSPIRED”

The future of Individual Signature Management has arrived. For a look of Orion’s ODTDM-2 pattern see the October issue of Combat Tactics.

Stand by for SHOT show 2012.

Stuff We Didn’t Write About

Saturday, September 17th, 2011

Cloaked in Pixels – I told you guys Hexagons are the key! Arrgghhh

Here’s what the lucky bastards got to do at Call of Duty XP event (photo gallery)

The New Pants Review

First FELIN Soldier Systems Delivered to the French Army – Should be titled “First PRODUCTION FELIN…”

Forza NEC to Include Signature Management Poncho

Friday, September 16th, 2011

We’ve mentioned the Italian future soldier system, Forza NEC (Network Enabled Capability) before on SSD. Aero Sekur S.p.A is in charge of the clothing portion of the system and they have included a poncho that includes signature management properties.

The poncho features multispectral characteristics including visual, Near IR and Thermal. Aero Sekur claims that the thermal suppression maintains the measurable exterior temperature of the poncho of no more than 4°C above air ambient temperature. Additionally, a white winter variant includes UV properties.

www.aerosekur.com/GroundDefence/Camouflage

CamoScience App Makes Custom Precision Camo Design a Reality

Tuesday, September 13th, 2011

Soldier Systems Daily unveils exclusive photo evidence.

We have mentioned Special Operations Apps and their CamoScience app in the past. CamoScience is an App for Smart Devices like the iPhone 4/5 and IPad 2.

Interestingly, SOA contacted us after reading the recent article published last week here on SSD concerning NECC’s (Naval Expeditionary Combat Command) lack of an issue combat uniform and a version of what appears to be unique Navy DIY Camo. They provided these pictures as photo-evidence of a new solution for the unique requirements of expeditionary units like the NECC and SOF.

As you can see, MW R&D and Special Operations Apps have moved past the proof of concept phase by showing these first public photos of CamoScience App Designs being printed digitally-direct to fabric and using MW R&D’s proprietary processes.

This is a custom camouflage design made real by combining elements from:
-Smart Device
-Reliable Intel (GEOINT)
-Digitally Printing Direct-To-Fabric
-Just-In-Time Custom Manufacturing

According to the company’s President, K. Dominic Cincotti, MW R&D and SOA are in talks now with leading Tactical and Hunting/Outdoor Companies to utilize this new proprietary process. Cincotti is the inventor of Photographic/Camera derived Camouflage.

“The truly great thing about using our process and this App is that it would allow for SOF to make their own CAMO designs”, Cincotti said.

“Operators could use the latest technology, without having to rely on ‘CAMO Artists’, with little knowledge of SOF operational or tactical concerns. The App even converts photos to MilSpec colors if that need exists.”

In 2007 Photo-Realâ„¢ and Photo-Stealthâ„¢ camo debuted. They were printed onto special adhesive vinyls and applied to SOF hardware and equipment. In 2009 a unique grip was added to these technologies and was applied to weapons.

Today, Soldier Systems Daily received these first photos of this new type of camo, produced using completely digital means on textiles. According to the company, a wide range of textiles and fabrics can now be utilized. The printer applies the pattern directly to your grey goods.

SOA in association with MW R&D are now in beta-testing with new Apps for release this winter.

specialoperationsapps.com