XC3 Weaponlight

Archive for the ‘CBRNE’ Category

Milipol 25 – Paul Boyé Technologies

Wednesday, November 26th, 2025

In October Norway’s NFM Group announced the purchase of Paul Boyé Technologies, a well known French specialist in CBRN defense systems.

This manakin depicting a Soldier in CBRN gear shows several of their combined systems.

Coverall: The CBPIA is a permeable filtering protectve coverall used to protect the body against CBRN threats or hazards in liquid, solid aerosol, gaseous, and vapor form during operations in a toxic CBRN environment.

Helmet: HJELMM 4 Gen Combat Helmet

Load bearing vest: THOR MCVS 3.0 Plate Carrier

Load bearing belt: THOR Belt with harness

Pouches: THOR 3XHK416 Pouch

Avon Protection’s MITR-M1 Half Mask achieves NIOSH Certification

Wednesday, October 15th, 2025

14th October 2025, Cadillac, MI, US: Avon Protection’s MITR-M1 Half Mask and MITR-PF Compact Particulate Filter have received certification from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) only nine months after its launch into the tactical military, special forces and law enforcement markets.

Avon Protection’s MITR-M1 Half Mask

The certification provides formal and independent recognition that MITR-M1 and MITR-PF have passed NIOSH’s rigorous testing processes and meet government-backed safety, performance and reliability standards.

The NIOSH certification is directly tied to the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), making it critical for user groups where approval for respirator purchasing is tied to NIOSH certification. OSHA stipulates where and when NIOSH-certified respiratory protection is legally and/or contractually required in the United States for workers in sectors such as industrial, emergency response, healthcare, or law enforcement.

NIOSH’s stringent testing assesses respirator filtration efficiency, breathing resistance and the product’s ability to function under a variety of different environmental conditions. It affirms that MITR-PF’s particulate filters exceed stipulated thresholds to filter out airborne particles in the environment; that inhalation and exhalation resistance remains within acceptable limits to prevent fatigue or breathing difficulty; and that it is resistant to operations in heat, cold and humidity, and can withstand rough handling.

“We designed the MITR half mask to give our users safe, convenient and low-burden respiratory protection that delivers when it matters most, and since its launch it has already redefined protection options for this fast-evolving market,” Steve Elwell, President, Avon Protection said. “We are confident in the quality of all our products and elected to undertake the NIOSH certification process to support our customers in sectors such as US Law Enforcement, where NIOSH is a major requirement.

“We are delighted that MITR has achieved this certification level, independently demonstrating to our user community that we are able to deliver the compliance, protection and operational readiness our users need, to know they will get home safely every time.”

MITR-M1 Half Mask, together with the newly-launched MITR-PG1 Powered Goggle, is designed to provide users with scalable, flexible full-face protection for tactical low- to mid-level threat environments.

Media enquiries:

Claire Apthorp
Claire.apthorp@marontech.co.uk
+44 (0) 7920403068

Natasha Goddard-Wellon
natasha.goddard-wellon@avon-protection.com
+44 (0) 7500 100087

About Avon Protection
For military and first responders, Avon Protection, part of the Avon Technologies plc group of brands, is the go-to for mission-critical protection that instils mission-critical confidence. As the most field-tested equipment in the industry, we have the real-world insight to innovate and stay steps ahead of ever-evolving threats.

Avon Protection’s life-critical CBRN personal protection solutions, including protective garments, Air Purifying Respirators (APRs), escape devices, Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR), and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), protect over 4-million users worldwide.

By controlling the design, integration and performance of all components needed to keep personnel safe, Avon Protection takes full responsibility for the entire CBRN ecosystem. Users can acquire their CBRN equipment from a single supplier, while benefiting from the assurance of the Avon Protection brand they know and trust. Through ease of use and enduring performance, we assure our protectors so they can complete the mission and come home safely, every time. For further information, please visit www.avon-protection.com.

Avon Protection introduces MITR-PG1 Powered Goggle at DSEI 2025

Tuesday, September 9th, 2025

The MITR-PG1 Powered Goggle is one of a number of new CBRN protective wear innovations on display on the Avon Protection stand N3-310 

9th September 2025, Melksham, UK: Avon Protection introduces the MITR-PG1 Powered Goggle at DSEI 2025, designed to provide ocular protection against particulate hazards in military, special forces and law enforcement operations. The new product has been developed to be worn with the MITR-M1 Half Mask, providing users with scalable, flexible full-face protection for tactical low- to mid-level threat environments.   

The MITR-PG1 Powered Goggle integrates seamlessly with the MITR-M1 Half Mask and head protection systems.

The low-profile, low-burden MITR-PG1 filters CS/CN/OC threats with an integrated filter and blower system which constantly purges the air within the goggle. This ensures that the wearer’s eyes remain constantly protected against particulate hazards, and the visor remains clear from fogging even in extreme temperatures. 

MITR-PG1 integrates seamlessly with ballistic and bump helmets via a strap system without interfering with other head-mounted systems such as night vision goggles. It is powered by a single 18650 protected cell battery that offers >8 hour operation from a single charge, with LED and vibrate status indicator that can be turned to stealth mode when required.

MITR-PG1 is designed to meet the requirements of ANSI Z87+ and ISO 16321-1, and can be used in an operational temperature range of -10 to 50?C.

“With the MITR-PG1 Powered Goggle joining the MITR-M1 Half Mask, we can now offer full face protection to tactical users who want a flexible, low-burden alternative to full face rigid respirators for fast evolving low-mid threat environments,” Steve Elwell, President, Avon Protection, said. “We have leveraged our 140-year history of design excellence to produce a goggle that is light and comfortable enough to be worn for more than eight hours at a time, and that integrates seamlessly with the Half Mask and commonly used helmets.”

At DSEI Avon Protection is also showcasing the MITR-M1 Communications Unit concept; a compact, high-performance system module built to integrate optimally with the MITR-M1 Half Mask, delivering clear and reliable voice transmissions for users in demanding operational environments. A new helmet mounting kit accessory, the MITR-M1 Helmet Mount, further improves the MITR-M1 don/doff process by enabling users to mount the Half Mask directly to a wide range of helmets without the need to remove the helmet.

Also newly launched is the MITR-RF Riot Agent Filter, a low-profile combination filter containing a pleated high-efficiency filter element for removal of aerosols, particulate matter, smoke, fumes; and a carbon layer for the removal of vapours that may be released from trapped particles. The filter is specifically designed for removal of riot control agents and tear gases including CS, CN and OC pepper spray.

Mountain Horse Solutions Selected as Awardee for $500 Million JPEO CBRND Commercial Solutions IDIQ Contract

Monday, August 18th, 2025

Colorado Springs, CO – August 13, 2025 – Mountain Horse Solutions announced today it has been selected as an awardee for the United States Army Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Defense (JPEO CBRND) Commercial Solutions Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract.

This multi-award contract—valued at up to $500 million across all awardees—provides a streamlined vehicle for the rapid acquisition of mission-critical CBRN Defense equipment, COTS items, ancillary training, and sustainment services. Through competitively awarded firm fixed-price delivery orders, Mountain Horse Solutions will support the Army with advanced gear such as turnout gear, respirators, portable analytical instruments, area monitoring systems, unmanned systems, personnel screening systems, and life cycle sustainment.

“This award reinforces Mountain Horse Solutions’ role as a trusted partner in delivering the most advanced, reliable, and rapid-response CBRNe defense solutions to protect those who protect us,” said Lorren Pogson, Mountain Horse Solutions’ CRBNe Program Manager and Outside Sales. “We are honored to stand alongside the JPEO CBRND in their mission to ensure the safety and operational readiness of our nation’s forces.”

Mountain Horse Solutions specializes in high-performance, mission-tailored solutions for defense, first responders, and critical infrastructure worldwide.

Learn more at www.mtnhorse.com.

SLNT Inc Awarded $1.8 Million SBIR Phase II Contract for H/EMP Protection Solutions

Friday, August 15th, 2025

Sheridan, WY – SLNT Inc, the premium signal blocking Faraday accessories brand specializing in high altitude electromagnetic pulse (H/EMP) and RF protection solutions, announces it has been selected by Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) for an SBIR Phase II contract in the amount of $1,799,156.13 million focused on advanced H/EMP protection systems for critical infrastructure generators and HVAC units to address the most pressing electromagnetic threats facing the Department of the Air Force (DAF).

Air Force Global Strike Command issued a competitive, topic-specific Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) solicitation to which SLNT Inc responded, first winning a Phase I contract that enabled the company to advance to the competitive Phase II selection process. AFGSC utilizes the Small Business Consulting Corporation (SBCC) to support this procurement effort.

With this award, SLNT Inc will continue the journey to create and provide innovative electromagnetic protection capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America.

“SLNT Inc is at the forefront of supplying military and government teams with the electromagnetic protection technology they need to safeguard critical infrastructure and maintain operational readiness,” said Aaron Zar, CEO of SLNT Inc. “We are honored to provide advanced H/EMP protection solutions to enable the Air Force and DoD to protect vital generator and HVAC systems in support of our nation’s security and mission continuity.”

“Today’s award announcement is a SLNT Inc milestone and demonstrates confidence in our ability to support the missions of our armed forces,” said Eric Imsland, Director of Business Development of SLNT Inc. “Our proven expertise in Faraday cage technology and electromagnetic shielding positions us uniquely to deliver robust protection solutions that ensure critical infrastructure remains operational during electromagnetic threats, and we look forward to delivering our exceptional innovation and protection capabilities to the Air Force.”

slnt.com

The views expressed are those of SLNT Inc and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.

Is the TacValve ModCan 1Qt Your Next Canteen?

Monday, August 11th, 2025

A couple of weeks ago I ran across a relatively product, the ModCan, made by a company called TacValve. Right afterward I had the opportunity it to speak with the creator of this new 1 quart hydration flask who related that he designed it based upon his experience as a Special Forces NCO.

It seems that since the advent of MOLLE and the Camelbak hydration reservoir (and it’s clones) the GI issue 1 Qt canteen isn’t a common sight on a load carriage system. Instead, we are seeing a lot of Nalgene bottles but they are an adaptation to the function rather than purpose built for the “Soldier’s load”.

The ModCan is designed based on need. It features a large removable lid so you can quickly fill it from a stream if need be. In fact, it’s the same size as a Nalgene mouth so you can use the same screw-on purification systems you ready own. Additionally, it’s made from SERVOGARD antimicrobial and anti-fungal plastic so you don’t have the issues of the funk that would grow on the old 1 Qt GI canteen. It’s also BPA, BPS, PFAS, and phthalate-free.

Squeezable for pressurized flow, the ModCan also features a clear strip down the side called a Viewstrip, so you can see how much liquid is left inside.

Something I really like about it is that it has an NBC cap which is compatible with Protective Masks fitted with a NATO standard hydration tube by fitting an Avon Water Canteen Cap (8465-01-529-9800) or Dräger Canteen Cap. It is also compatible with a Mira Canteen Cap.

During my discussion with TacValve they revealed that they are awaiting certification from the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND) for use in a slimed environment.

I’ve seen some promising alternatives to the 1qt canteen in the past but the designers were unfortunately underfunded. TacValve’s production is scalable with an ability to flex to up to 50,000 units per week. They underestimated the initial demand and are working to quickly rectify that.

We’ve currently got a military looking for US made gear that can be procured at scale during a crisis, and the ModCan fits that bill. In the meantime, they’ll be available for end of year purchases which close in early September. They can be ordered by the case which contains 72 ModCans.

Hopefully, we will see the ModCan evaluated by the Army during an upcoming Advanced Expeditionary Warfighter Experiment (or equivalent) or through the Soldier Enhancement Program soon.

Meanwhile, you can order yours at tacvalve.com. I believe they will be back in stock with week. Additionally, CANA Provisions should have them back in stock soon as well. I understand they sold out in hours last time they had them in stock.

Offered in OD Green, Coyote, Gray, Black, and Clear. I can’t wait to get my hands on some of these.

DEVCOM CBC Assists in Showcasing Autonomous Decontamination at MSPIX 2025

Monday, July 28th, 2025

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD – The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) attended this year’s Maneuver Support & Protection Integration eXperiments (MSPIX) to showcase its newest autonomous decontamination capabilities.

Held in Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri, MSPIX provides the opportunity and space for emerging technologies and capabilities to be evaluated in a simulated battle environment with an emphasis on hands-on Soldier interaction, allowing direct feedback on future technology to improve the tools warfighters can use to stay ready and lethal. MSPIX is just one example of the various Advanced Technology Demonstrations (ATDs) that scientists and Soldiers alike attend to become familiarized with and further refine upcoming prototypes.

During this year’s event, which took place from May 5 to 16, DEVCOM CBC demonstrated its Autonomous Biological Critical Area Disinfection (ABCAD) system, which enables Soldiers and other end-users to remotely control an ATV-sized, 8-wheel vehicle equipped with applicators and tanks housing various liquid decontamination formulas. Matt Reber, a mechanical engineer from the Center’s Product Design and Development division, marked his second year attending MSPIX by training participating Soldiers and facilitating their further feedback into the next iteration of the system.

“We anticipate the use of this technology to be at places like airstrips, shipyards – any large area with a high volume of ground to cover for decon,” said Reber. “Our goal at this event was to train Soldiers before letting them loose with the equipment. The aim was to be mostly hands-off so that they can use the system armed only with some basic instructions to test how streamlined and user-friendly the system is.”

Soldiers were able to drive around the simulated battlefield, spraying water as a substitute for the decontamination formula to illustrate the large area capable. According to Reber, the main goal is not just to put this in their hands but to leverage the feedback they receive from the Soldiers during post-experiment Q&A sessions and questionnaires further to refine the end product into a mission-oriented capability.

“Knowing what Soldiers liked and didn’t like gives us the correct jumping-off point for when we return to the lab,” said Reber. “Their recommendations help us get closer to making this as autonomous as possible. Our end goal is to get Soldiers out of the field. Decon work can be hot, dirty and just an overall dangerous work environment.”

The ABCAD is designed and run in partnership with DEVCOM’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC). While CBC dials in the autonomous applicator, GVSC further refines its 8-wheeled transport, as well as the respective software and hardware. As the project begins to attend more scheduled ATDs, GVSC and CBC collaborate every two to three months for weeklong tests that make additional tweaks to the system.

This year’s MSPIX is the first that the ABCAD system has attended, marking an important steppingstone for the technology. It provides the ever-crucial Soldier feedback that will hone this technology into a more warfighter-focused prototype.

“We don’t get a lot of time to interface with Soldiers,” said Reber. “Sometimes, I’ll work on a project from start to finish without interacting with the end-user at all. But, if what we’re making is going to end up in the Soldier’s hand at some point in time, then it only makes sense for us to test, train and learn from these guys. In the end, they’re the ones that know what is needed to win the fight.”

Story by Parker Martin,

U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center

Avon Protection Receives UK MoD Respirator Order for Ukraine

Wednesday, June 25th, 2025

23rd June 2025, Melksham, UK: Avon Technologies plc is pleased to confirm that the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has placed an order worth approximately £10.2 million for Avon Protection FM50 respirators in support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Avon Protection’s FM50 respirator meets the latest NATO forces’ military mask requirements with variants in use across the world. It provides full-face protection against CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) threats, with very low breathing resistance that ensures a comfortable wearer experience.  

Jos Sclater, Chief Executive Officer, commented:  “We are proud of the contribution Avon Protection provides to the national security of the United Kingdom and its international partners. 

“This order demonstrates our critical contribution to the overall health and resilience of the UK defence industrial base and reinforces the UK’s commitment to continue its military support to Ukraine, as stated in the 2025 Strategic Defence Review.”

Steve Elwell, President of Avon Protection, commented: “The UK has put its trust in Avon Protection’s products for decades, most recently with an order for our EXOSKIN boots and gloves and now with this FM50 order. This trust is extended to the benefit of our Ukraine partner to provide enhanced protection for their personnel on the front line.”

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