CBRNE | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for the ‘CBRNE’ Category

Dräger Unveils ProAir: Next-Gen Respiratory Protection for Government Operations

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

Advanced, Four-Hour Breathing Apparatus for Federal Government Operations in Extreme Conditions

• Closed-circuit breathing Apparatus
• CO2 Scrubbing Technology
• Prolonged Breathing Comfort
• Customizable Cooling Options

Houston, Texas – March 04, 2025 – Dräger, a global leader in safetytechnology, proudly unveils the NIOSH-certified ProAir, an advanced closed-circuit breathing apparatus (CCBA) designed to provide a continuous oxygen supply for up to four hours. Leveraging over a century of expertise in breathing apparatus technology, this innovative solution is set to transform Federal Government operations in hazardous environments, including below-deck ship incidents, confined spaces, subterranean operations, and HAZMAT operations.

The ProAir can enhance operational readiness for federal agencies, including the armed forces, law enforcement, emergency responders, and environmental protection agencies. By providing an uninterrupted oxygen supply, the ProAir enables personnel to focus on high-risk situations, such as search and rescue missions, decontamination efforts, and HAZMAT response, alongside other critical tasks.

David Warnacut, U.S. Marine and Dräger Product Manager, states, “In high-stakes operations, having dependable and effective equipment is essential. The ProAir provides access to safe, breathable oxygen for extended periods across various operations. This enduring commitment underscores Dräger’s dedication to enhancing the safety and effectiveness of our Federal agents and armed forces in the field.”

Dräger BG ProAir

Adding Time to Critical Missions

The ProAir represents a significant advancement in personal safety gear, providing extended respiratory protection under some of the most challenging conditions. Designed to complement traditional SCBAs, the ProAir maximizes operational capabilities by eliminatingthe need for frequent cylinder changes during prolonged engagements. This additional time helps federal personnel to consolidate focus, complete intricate tasks without interruption, confidently navigate lengthy routes, and handle emergencies without worrying about the clock. By maximizing crucial operational time, the ProAir helpsfederal teams carry out their missions, increasing the safety and efficiency of high-stakes scenarios.

Innovative Scrubbing and Cooling Technology

The ProAir incorporates a proprietary carbon dioxide scrubber embedded in a positive pressure breathing circuit. This technology efficiently removes carbon dioxide and enriches the air with oxygen, removing the reliance on bulky air cylinders. The new RFID chip on the canister enables the ProAir to track the soda lime’s life.

Expanding its versatility, the ProAir introduces two advanced cooling options: the Ice Cooler with durable ice packs and the groundbreaking Phase Change Material (PCM) system, making its debut in North America. The Ice Cooler offers an improved user experience by containing the melted water inside the ice pack. Meanwhile, the PCM system utilizes paraffin wax sheets that require no freezing, offeringenhanced readiness and reliability, marking a significant advancement in CCBA technology.

Securing the Lower Decks

The ProAir extends operational time for responders handling below-deck emergencies, where rapid response and sustained action are critical. Its advanced air management system helps service membershandle long and hazardous tasks effectively, reducing risks from exposure to smoke and harmful fumes. This is crucial for maintaining crew safety and readiness during a maritime crisis, giving additional time to address hazards and navigate complex below-deck configurations.

Confined Space and Sub-T Operations

The ProAir excels in subterranean (Sub-T) environments, where confined spaces and hazardous air conditions can pose significant risks. This solution helps personnel breathe safely and in underground facilities, tunnels, and passageways, allowing teams to execute intricate maneuvers, navigate treacherous terrains, and respond to emergencies confidently. Its robust, extended air supply minimizes the need for frequent cylinder changes, offering continuous protection.

HAZMAT Resilience

The ProAir is purpose-built to help counter HAZMAT threats, providing critical breathing protection during attacks, rescue missions, decontamination, and containment operations. Unlike traditional SCBAs that are limited to 45-60 minutes, the ProAir extends operational time with up to four hours of breathable air, reducing cylinder changeovers and minimizing downtime. This added capacity allows responders to remain in hazardous environments for extended periods, supporting sustained containment, decontamination, and cleanup efforts while improving overall operational efficiency.

Innovative Features for Enhanced Performance:

• Withstands Flames: The ProAir endures direct exposure to flames up to 1,742°F, meeting the highest safety and performance standards.

• Boosts Visibility: Enhances team awareness with Buddy Lights displaying cylinder pressure.

• Handles Extremes: Built to resist high temperatures, dust, debris, and sparks while ensuring agility with advanced ergonomic relief.

• Simplifies Maintenance: Easy, tool-free disassembly and servicing of the CCBA.

• Delivers Instant Updates: View critical supply status and alerts—such as cylinder pressure and time to whistle—on the palm-sized Electronic Control Unit (ECU).

• Enhances Communication: Stay connected with integrated radio features and voice amplification for clear communication in challenging environments.

• Tracks Usage: Leverage the built-in RFID chip to monitor soda lime life and streamline maintenance.

For more information, please visit the Dräger BG ProAir webpage.

Posted in CBRNE, Press Release | No Comments »

SHOT Show 25 – Crye Precision

Tuesday, January 21st, 2025

Crye Precision continues to innovate with multiple new garments.

First up is the new Low Burden CBRN Suit which was developed in conjunction with foreign SOF. Due to the ITAR restrictions associated with this garment, it will not be on the Crye website.

Based on the G4 silhouette, the Jacket is available in sizes XSmall – 3XLarge in Short, Regular, Long, and XLong and Pant in 26″ – 46″, Short, Regular, and Long.

Features:

Jacket:

1. Elastic bound hood opening, with interior elastic tunnel

2. Helmet accessible hood adjustment

3. Off-center front zipper opening with low profile Velcro flap

4. G4 style zippered shoulder pockets

5. Adjustable back waist tunnel with Velcro tabs

6. Adjustable cuff closure

7. Elastic waist tunnel

8. Carbon cuff

Pants:

1. Hand pockets removed

2. Velcro and zippered fly

3. Zippered opening cargo pockets

4. Velcro adjustable waist tab

5. Accepts AIRFLEX FIELD and COMBAT KNEEPAD

6. Carbon gaiter

Interested organizations should contact Crye directly for additional performance tech data.

Next is a version of the G3 uniform in Grey for the British Prison Service which integrates cut resistant panels.

This is the G4 Aviation Field Shirt and Aviation Combat Pant. What’s interesting is the Final Forge Rotary Wing Advanced Tactical Helmet is fitted with a ballistic appliqué.

Crye developed this MultiCam Alpine Uniform for a DoD client. Although it uses the G3 silhouette, the fabric is 100% nylon from their hot weather uniform line.

Much to my joy, the Roll Up Dump Pouch is finally available.

There are a few other goodies coming and I’ll see what else they’ll let me share this week.

Posted in Advertiser, CBRNE, Clothing, Load Carrying, Multicam, SHOT Show | 8 Comments »

Avon Protection Introduces New Tactical MITR-M1 Half Mask

Tuesday, January 21st, 2025

January 21st 2025, Cadillac, Michigan, USA: Avon Protection is pleased to introduce the newest addition to its portfolio of market-leading personal protective equipment, the MITR-M1 Half Mask, for Special Operations, military and first responder personnel operating in low- to mid-level threat environments. MITR-M1 is now available for pre-order.

MITR-M1 has been designed to fill a critical capability gap between lower protection/single-use masks and traditional full-face respirators. With a lightweight (0.55lbs/250g) and low-profile design, MITR-M1 can be carried in cargo pockets or gear pouches. It gives operators a low burden, ever-ready solution that can be quickly donned in tactical and fast-evolving situations where respiratory threats may be present.

The MITR-PF1 particle filter incorporates a low-profile, pleated element that provides 99.97% filtration efficiency against very fine dust, fumes, biological agents, and oil- and water-based mists. Further combination filters effective against riot control agents and TIC’s will be available later this year.

MITR-M1 has been developed as a tactical half mask solution to ensure user comfort and maintain optimised breathing efficiency during operations. It is manufactured from proven military pedigree materials; with a sleek flush-fitting, left/right configurable mounted filter with a curved profile that ensures compatibility with other tactical gear and maintains weapons sighting ability.

Steve Elwell, President of Avon Protection, said. “With the launch of MITR-M1, Avon Protection reinforces its position as the world leader in respiratory protection for users across the full law enforcement, military and first responder spectrum. In addition to our range of high-threat CBRN full-face respirators, we can now offer a much-needed tactical half mask solution for those needing always-ready protection in fast developing environments where seconds count.”

“MITR-M1 embodies the integration-led design ethos of our range of personal protective equipment, fitting seamlessly into existing tactical gear ensembles, allowing the wearer to get on with the mission with minimum distraction and get home safely.”

MITR-M1 is the first phase of a new tactical ensemble that will grow during 2025 to include innovative, adaptable head attachment variants. Initially launching with a head harness solution, later this year Avon Protection will launch a helmet clip solution that will enable users to attach the half mask to their helmet rail in seconds without the need to remove the helmet. This ensures the user’s head is always protected. The ensemble will be further complimented in late 2025 with the introduction of a power-sealed goggle apparatus to allow users to scale their protection as required.

The MITR-M1 Half Mask is on display at SHOT Show 2025 on booth #62307.

For further information, please visit www.avon-protection.com.

Posted in Advertiser, CBRNE, Press Release | No Comments »

Tyndall AFB Increases Readiness with Aircrew CBRN Equipment

Sunday, December 29th, 2024

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. – Tyndall Air Force Base is taking a proactive step in increasing its combat readiness by implementing the use of aircrew chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear equipment. Known as aircrew CBRN equipment, this specialized gear is essential in ensuring the protection and readiness of the personnel operating the aircraft against any threats that adversaries may use.

The 325th Operations Support Squadron Aircrew Flight Equipment Flight (AFE) has set a personal deadline of February 2025 to have current and new pilots fitted and trained with how to wear their new equipment properly, ensuring pilots are always mission ready.

“We need to be prepared for anything,” said Senior Airman Kaitlin Wells, 325th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment journeyman. “That includes having all their equipment sized, fit, inspected, tested and ready so that if something does happen tomorrow, we won’t have limited time to fit up every single pilot to fight a war.”

The aircrew CBRN equipment is specifically designed for the unique requirements of flying in high-performance aircraft. This includes being able to withstand g-force during operations and egress scenarios while also being able to be worn in conjunction with other items, such as the thermal protection layer and cold-water immersion garments. Additionally, this gear integrates respiratory protection directly with the full-body covering, creating a seamless system.

The equipment is so complex that in total, pilots can be expected to add approximately 10-15 lbs. of additional weight while operating with aircrew CBRN equipment.

The fitting and training process is equally as comprehensive. It involves detailed measurements, donning of each piece of equipment and regular fit checks to ensure that pilots can operate properly and safely. Pilots undergo classroom training that covers the basics of the equipment, its purpose and the expectations for the pilots in using and maintaining the gear.

They will also go through practical training, where they will be required to don their gear and process through a chemical line known as Air Crew Contamination Area & Air Crew Contamination Station, which are mock CBRN events that will simulate the process of testing, removing and decontaminating the aircrew CBRN equipment.

The chemical line process must be conducted every three years or whenever a member is newly assigned; however, AFE plans on conducting the process every quarter to stay ahead of the curve and ensure that the pilots maintain knowledge of the workings of their gear.

By providing essential protection, expanding operational reach and enhancing overall readiness, the implementation of aircrew CBRN equipment at Tyndall is a critical step in furthering the base’s combat capabilities and preparing it to face any challenges.

“I think it gets us back to a combat-ready mission, and it makes it to where there are no limitations as to where we can go and where we can take our aircraft to fight the fight, making us a more agile and a more prepared force,” said Tech. Sgt. Kevin Terry, 301st Fighter Squadron flight chief.

Story by Airman 1st Class Asha Wiltshire, 325th Fighter Wing

Posted in Air Force, CBRNE, Guest Post | 3 Comments »

WC-135R Conducts Atmospheric Testing in the CENTCOM AOR

Tuesday, December 24th, 2024

In a rare occurrence, the USAF has released photos of a WC-135R Constant Phoenix conducting sampling operations in an undisclosed location within the CENTCOM AOR.

WC-135 is the only aircraft in the U.S. Air Force inventory that conducts air sampling operations and collects particulate and gaseous effluents and debris in the atmosphere in support of the 1963 Limited Test Ban Treaty which ensures signatory nations adhere to prohibited above ground nuclear weapons testing.

Assigned to the 45th Reconnaissance Squadron, 55th Wing, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, Constant Phoenix is used worldwide to conduct radionuclide baseline flights. The aircraft’s onboard atmospheric collection suite allows mission crew assigned to the Air Force Technical Applications Center at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, to detect radioactive “clouds” in real time through its internal compressor system.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Zeeshan Naeem

Posted in Air Force, CBRNE | Comments Off on WC-135R Conducts Atmospheric Testing in the CENTCOM AOR

Soldiers Provide Input on Microsensor Tech Developed in Partnership with ROK

Tuesday, November 19th, 2024

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. — This year, the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center hosted a Soldier touchpoint event at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Edgewood, Maryland to test out new unmanned drones equipped with a set of microsensors developed in conjunction with the Republic of Korea’s Agency for Defense Development, or ROK ADD. Soldier touchpoints are one of the first major milestones in testing a potential technology to be fielded.

The microsensor effort began as a partnership between the Center and ROK ADD in 2018 to successfully meet the stringent form-factor requirements set forth by the customer. Kevin Wan, a DEVCOM CBC chemical engineer and project manager for the microchemical sensor effort, called in ROK ADD for assistance with the 3-gram sensor size requirement while his team focused on suitable use cases. Both centers pushed to complete their collaborative effort in time for this upcoming user assessment.

“The design space was quite limiting to begin with, so we worked with our Korean partners to get this working on a three-gram payload,” said Wan. “The hornet drones are great at intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, but adding chemical-sensing capabilities would further its use cases — this is what we primarily wanted to focus on.”

The effort came to a head on July 31, 2024, when the center hosted Soldiers from the U.S. Army Reserve’s 455 Chemical Brigade, headquartered in Sloan, Nevada, as well as their partners from ROK ADD, which serves as their DEVCOM equivalent, in an exercise where all participants could give concerted feedback on the drones and sensors.

Initial funding for the project came from DEVCOM Soldier Center in Natick, Massachusetts, which had the need for a sensor weighing no more than three grams. This form factor would specifically fit on the Black Hornet III, a currently fielded minuscule drone platform weighing in at 38 grams. The project received funding from the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy International Cooperation Office’s Coalition Warfare Program and other organizations.

Wan and his team shifted their focus on the sensor’s early warning detection capabilities against a chemical threat — whether it may be a nerve or blister agent. They then focused their efforts on redundancy and reliability to increase detection. “Having two independent sensors provide the same response would increase the confidence of detection,” said Wan. “That redundancy and reliability coupled with a low limit of detection for early warning is critical to us and our Soldiers.”

To test their prototypes, DEVCOM CBC invited CBRN specialists to learn how to fly these drones and run a simulated scenario involving piloting the Black Hornets into various tents in an enclosed space with one of the tents housing a simulated agent. Cpl. Brittney Batimana, one of the Soldiers involved, said that the new drones would increase Soldiers’ safety and mission success.

“It’s pretty simple — once you get comfortable with the camera’s point of view, it’s easy to identify your targets,” said Batimana. “Our job is to identify and decontaminate hazards: this is just another way for us to always stay prepared if a situation were to ever turn chemical.”

The collaborative effort between the two centers was evident throughout the Soldier touchpoint and mirrored the success of this joint development process. “We love to work together with our partners,” said Wan. “Highly competent and highly intelligent. What we both want to see going forward are more use cases and increasing the library of threats that can be detected.” This sentiment was further echoed by Dr. Myung Kyu Park, Wan’s ROK ADD counterpart and micro chemical sensor project manager: “We do very well together — [they] worked very hard to see that these sensors work.”

Increasing the library of substances to detect would include various explosives, narcotics or industrial chemicals, furthering the drone’s use cases significantly beyond the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance realm. With the success of the Soldier touchpoint exercise, Wan and his team know that the form factor lends itself to an even wider variety of scenarios.

By Parker Martin

Posted in CBRNE, Guest Post, ISR, Sensors, UAS | Comments Off on Soldiers Provide Input on Microsensor Tech Developed in Partnership with ROK

CHAPPIE: An Innovative Advancement in CBRN Defense

Wednesday, November 13th, 2024

BUCKLEY SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFNS) —

Buckley Space Force Base is home to one of the Defense Department’s only two chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear quadrupedal unmanned ground vehicles.

“You spend enough time around him and start to forget he’s a QUGV,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Dominic Garcia, Installation Office of Emergency Management section chief. Garcia refers to this innovative QUGV, affectionately known as CHAPPIE, representing a significant technological advancement in CBRN defense.

CHAPPIE, one of the only two QUGVs in the DoD repurposed for CBRN field operations, stands out with its extensive list of capabilities and customizations. These include remote CBRN sensing capabilities using our current inventory of detectors, which distinguishes it from other systems and makes it a significant technological advancement in CBRN defense.

“This QUGV is not only an operational game-changer for CBRN defense but also serves as a proof of concept for technological innovation within the Air and Space Forces,” Garcia explained. “The AFWERX vehicle allows end-users from the force, regardless of rank, to collaborate directly with industry to develop what the multi-capable warfighter needs at the speed of relevance, not 10-15 years later.” AFWERX, an investment program and the Department of the Air Force’s innovation arm accelerates agile and affordable capability transitions by teaming innovative technology developers with Airman and Guardian talent.

Garcia’s passion for this project dates back six years to his time at Dyess Air Force Base. “The idea came after a deployment to Syria where we were locating and destroying ISIS chemical weapons while facing novel chemicals,” Garcia recalled. “I thought there had to be a safer and faster way. In 2022, while stationed at Minot, I applied for a Small Business Innovation Research Grant through AFWERX. I received $1.24 million to develop a remote CBRN sensing capability using our current inventory of detectors. Within 20 months, we reached 90% of our goal, conducting tests at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency and Dugway Proving Ground.”

CHAPPIE is more than just a tool for saving lives and improving CBRN efficiency. According to Garcia, it represents a legacy of innovation and a testament to the power of new ideas. “The QUGV’s functionality provides a significant capability to support every mission at every base across the Air and Space Force. The message ingrained in this project transcends to every Airman and Guardian, emphasizing the importance of innovation.”

Garcia’s message extends to all enlisted and commissioned Airmen across all branches. He emphasizes, “Every service member has unique skills, knowledge or background that should be leveraged. Leaders should offer empowering words of support. Rank does not define intelligence, capability or competency. Many high-potential grassroots innovations and ideas never advance past the first line of supervision. We need to start recognizing and promoting these innovations to meet current challenges.” This recognition of the potential in every service member is what drives the success of this project.

The development of the CBRN QUGV is ongoing, with plans to enhance CHAPPIE’s agility, competitiveness and effectiveness in the Great Power Competition. Future upgrades aim to further improve its mobility, enabling it to navigate more complex environments. Additionally, advancements in sensor technology and artificial intelligence will allow CHAPPIE to detect and respond to threats with unprecedented accuracy and speed. These enhancements and tests of effectiveness will allow CHAPPIE to remain at the forefront of CBRN defense, providing unparalleled support to missions and reinforcing the United States’ commitment to maintaining an even stronger technological edge in global defense operations.

“It is a refreshing change to how we have traditionally tested and fielded new equipment,” said Master Sgt. Jacob Schrader, Installation Office of Emergency Management superintendent. “We have opened a new world of opportunity by enabling the end users to be creative and use their existing skills to create equipment designed around their needs. Ultimately, this will help us meet the pacing challenges faster and allow the use of existing technologies to increase our capabilities.”

As Buckley Space Force Base continues to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible, CHAPPIE symbolizes the future of military technology and the ongoing pursuit of excellence within the Air and Space Forces.

By TSgt Jordan Thompson, Space Base Delta 2

Posted in Advertiser, CBRNE, Guest Post, Robotics, Space | Comments Off on CHAPPIE: An Innovative Advancement in CBRN Defense

Avon Protection Awarded US DoD ASPIRE Hood Mask Interface Contracts

Tuesday, November 12th, 2024

Avon Protection will apply its extensive experience as a provider of CBRN protective systems to optimize integration of personal protective equipmentCadillac, MI, (November 11th, 2024): Avon Protection, renowned leader in innovative personal protective equipment, has been awarded three contracts by the US Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) ASPIRE HMI (Advanced System for Protection and Integrated Reduction of Encumbrances Hood/Mask Interface) program, which is executed by the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND).

The three contracts will cover the design and development of a solution to optimize integration between currently fielded M50 and M53A1 CBRN protective masks and CBRN protective garment hoods on a CBRN suit.

“The risk a customer faces when procuring protective equipment as individual systems from different suppliers is that there are potential integration issues at the points at which these different systems meet, no matter how advanced each individual system is,” Steve Elwell, President, Avon Protection, said. “Our approach is to mitigate this risk by designing our equipment to integrate seamlessly together, and it is this understanding of the importance of interface optimization between systems that we will bring to our work on this contract.”

The DoD is a strategic partner for Avon Protection, with millions of Avon Protection M50/M51 and M53/M53A1 air purifying respirators (APRs) in use across all branches of the US military.

Posted in CBRNE, Contracts, Press Release | Comments Off on Avon Protection Awarded US DoD ASPIRE Hood Mask Interface Contracts