Offered in Coyote or MultiCam, Mystery Ranch’s pouch for the goTenna Pro and Pro X is PALS compatible.
www.mysteryranch.com/gotenna-pouch
Archive for the ‘Comms’ Category
Galvion Releases a New Range of Data Compatible Accessories to Support their Active Systems Concept at DSEi
Friday, September 10th, 2021Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of military power management solutions, with operationally proven pedigree in NATO countries, has released three new key products as part of their integrated Active Systems capability that facilitates the harvesting, distribution and management of dismounted soldier power, data and software. The announcement coincides with the DSEi exhibition taking place in London, 14-17 September 2021. At the show, Galvion will also be exhibiting their range of next generation head systems and Li-ion platform power solutions on stand H1-424.
To be mission effective, the modern soldier is required to carry, operate and maintain a host of devices that all demand significant power and data capacity – for example radios, NVGs, GPS, smart phones, laptops, drones and other surveillance equipment. Galvion has released three new products that integrate with their existing soldier power systems, to better support the dismounted soldier in managing these increasing technology demands. These products are flexible, scalable and comply with US NettWarrior and NATO STANAG 4695 standards for backward compatibility, ease of integration with other product ranges and improved logistic sustainability on the battlefield.
The Power and Data Hub 4-Port (PDH-4) provides a multi-function power and data connection between the basic soldier-worn architecture, such as hand-held radios and smart devices, and a suitable power source. The PDH-4 enables the soldier to send and receive data through the connection with the soldier worn devices, increasing situational awareness through system integration. When combined with the PWS it maximises the distribution and use of harvested power sources and is ready for the soldier’s future data sharing demands and software updates.
The Personal Worn Power Scavenger (PWS) provides a highly adaptable interface to allow the soldier to harvest power from multiple sources such as solar panels, 12V systems, mains power or other squad or personal power sources such as SoloPackTM. The PWS can be used in isolation or combined with other products, such as the PDH-4, to increase utility and the number of devices that can be charged.
The third new product, the Radio Power Adapter (RPA), easily integrates with most common hand-held radios in use today. This adapter provides power to the main radio battery by connecting to a main soldier-worn power source and keeping it charged and ready for when the radio is disconnected from the soldier-worn architecture. The Radio Power Adapter supports the AN/PRC-148 MBITR, Falcon III AN/PRC-152A and the AN/PRC-161 Link-16. The RPA also reduces the number of radio batteries a user needs to carry and fits into their existing load carrying system.
Kristen Lomastro, President of Active Systems, said: “Galvion has been leading the way for soldier power management and distribution systems with their NervCentr® products and I am extremely pleased to announce the release of these three new products to augment our dismounted soldier capability. With their small form factor, these products easily integrate into existing soldier-worn equipment and are compatible with other soldier systems. They also provide the hardware infrastructure to support our mission-enabling software making them future-ready. Galvion always places the soldier first, and we pride ourselves on designing solutions that help to protect and support those who protect us.”
WiGL Inc. and Cubic Cement Far-Field Wireless Network Collaboration
Tuesday, September 7th, 2021HAMPTON, VIRGINIA, USA, September 7, 2021 — WiGL, Inc., a smart, touchless, wireless power company, today announced it is partnering with Cubic Defense Applications, Inc., under the Cubic Mission and Performance Solutions (CMPS) Business Unit of Cubic Corporation, a worldwide technology company in transportation and military technology, on a next-generation, ad-hoc IoT mesh network. The new network will be enabled by Energous’ WattUp active energy harvesting transmitter and receiver technology. Cubic, under contract from WiGL Inc. and acting as lead integrator, will bring together mature technology from Energous with mesh-networking enabling a seamless, unbounded, and convenient power capability that works like the data networks we have grown to rely on for daily life. “Utilizing award winning Commercial Off the Shelf solutions is a smart move because of the synergy between existing products and WiGL’s networking solutions”, said Cherif Chibane, WiGL CTO.
Since 2018, the Wireless Electrical Grid LAN company, WiGL Inc., has developed techniques for networking far-field wireless power charging and recharging. In its efforts to develop a mass market capability that makes wireless power transfer as easy to use as wireless data, WiGL creates islands of wireless power supporting unbounded networks of wireless power – thus tipping the balance of convenience for universal applications. WiGL’s patented technologies allow anyone to pick a wireless power network the same way they pick a Wi-Fi provider. WiGL “cuts the cords” and wirelessly powers devices on the move, in the home, in the office, and more.
With this collaboration, the LAN part of WIGL takes a giant leap forward. Robert Rickard, COO of WiGL Inc. commented, “Once people can actually experience a wireless far-field powered network and control the actions of it with their phone, the value proposition for this solution will be clear. Our singular mission is to make WiGL synonymous with convenient wireless power anywhere…”
Bringing these technologies together is Cubic, a technology-driven, market-leading provider of integrated solutions that increase situational understanding for transportation, Defense, C4ISR, and Training to decrease urban congestion and improve military effectiveness and operational readiness. A world leader in public transportation as well as military technologies, Cubic was the natural choice for WiGL to lead this integration effort. Dr. Ahmad Glover, CEO of WiGL commented, “Cubic was the very first company to endorse our solutions and helped us tremendously in our initial efforts – we wouldn’t be here as fast as we are without them. Their market potential in both the private industry and defense industries worldwide positions them as a key early market vendor for networked wireless power.” Michael Knowles, Senior Vice President of Cubic Corporation and President of Cubic Mission and Performance Solutions also commented, “Cubic has a long history of innovation and bringing leading capabilities to market. We are excited about the opportunity to team up with WiGL to address new power solutions that advantage our products and customers.”
Air Force Declares TACP Mobile Communications System ‘Combat Ready’
Wednesday, September 1st, 2021HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. – The U.S. Air Force’s Air Combat Command recently declared the initial operational capability for the tactical air control party mobile communications system block 2 system ‘combat ready’ at the recommendation of the 605th Test and Evaluation Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Florida.
In the spring of 2020, the 605th TES TACP Element, in conjunction with the 14th Air Support Operations Squadron, Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina, conducted the operational utility evaluation, or OUE, of the MCS block 2 on M-1165 armored high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles.
As Air Combat Command’s independent, sole, command and control operational test unit, the 605th TES, tested the system under realistic conditions, using new and experienced Airmen, who will be operating and maintaining the system once fielded.
The OUE validated the operational effectiveness and suitability of MCS block 2, cybersecurity and resiliency, and its impact on TACP and air support operations center tactics, techniques, and procedures.
M1165 HMMWVs, better known as humvees, are integrated with multi-channel communications equipment through the MCS block 2 system which provides voice, data, and video capabilities to TACP Joint Terminal Attack Controllers while “on-the-move” and “at-the-halt”.
“This new system gives TACPs greater mission flexibility by incorporating additional data link, full motion video, and high frequency radio capabilities while out in the field,” said Master Sgt. Jesus Torres, 605th TES senior enlisted leader and TACP.
JTACS will use MCS Block 2 to perform their close air support and command and control missions.
To achieve IOC, the MCS Block 2 system demonstrated the necessary combat capability for voice and video communications and had sufficient required fielding and logistics support.
“Through early involvement and by building relationships across the acquisition process the 605th TES was instrumental in providing early user feedback,” said Torres. “During early DoD [Department of Defense] COVID Guidance, the 605th TES TACPs developed risk mitigation measures enabling regression testing to continue during the pandemic which allowed this vital capability be delivered to the warfighter five months ahead of schedule.”
“As our service takes positive steps to mature Agile Combat Employment concepts, through years of being disaggregated and embracing Mission Command, the TACP community is best positioned to inform the larger enterprise on what technology could be beneficial, said Col. Adam Shelton, 505th Test and Training Group commander. “This IOC declaration will assist in furthering our integration efforts with joint partners in venues such as the Army’s Project Convergence or in tier 1 exercises such as Northern Edge.”
As of August 2021, the 605th TES continues to accelerate change by conducting operational testing on the MCS Block 3, installed on the U.S. Army’s next-generation Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle as a replacement for the M113 Armored Personnel Carrier family of vehicles.
505th Command and Control Wing (ACC) Public Affairs
ACR Bivy Stick
Monday, August 30th, 2021The ACR Bivy Stick connects your cell phone to satellites for off grid communications.
Weighing in at 100 grams, it’s about half the size and weight of a cell phone?. Subscription plan required. You’ll have to set it up before you need it.?. You’ll get two-way text? and location sharing from your phone. Plus, there’s a check-in button on the Stick which sends unlimited free preset messages and your location without using your phone. There’s also an SOS button on the device with emergency service provided by Global Rescue.
Purple Orange Media Event
Wednesday, August 18th, 2021The evening before Outdoor Retailer Summer Market kicked off, PR company Purple Orange held a private media event at a local venue for the various brands the represent*.
It was very well attended and I didn’t get to speak with every company there because the lines were too long. So instead, I’m going to mention just a few brands and products.
Sea to Summit
Sea to Summit makes some great lightweight camping gear with welcome news that we’ll start to see more subdued colors as they begin to push into the hunting market. Their Stretch-Loc TPU straps are 12mm wide come in multiple lengths from 300mm to 750mm. The straps function like a belt with a bit of inherent stretch so you can crank down a bit for a snug fit. They are offered in Grey, Black and Yellow.
BioLite
The big new from BioLite is that they are introducing the Basecharge 600 and 1500. They incorporate ISB ports and DC sockets. The Basecharge can be recharged via shore power or solar panel.?
SomeWear Labs
SomeWear Pabs was the most interesting conversation I had at this event and it’s not just because they had heard of SSD. The company which specializes in satellite data services via this puck which connects your end user device to the web. It weighs just 4 oz and has been approved for DoD use with ATAK.
Gnarly Sports Nutrition
Fuel2O is like a powdered version of the gummies so many endurance athletes use so that the nutrients can be drunk while rehydrating. You’ll also get dextrose and sucrose (100 cal per 12 oz) as well as HMB (280 mg).
*Purple Orange represents the following companies:
Peak Design
Sea to Summit
Jack Wolfskin
Somewear Labs
Swiftwick Socks
NATHAN
Ibex Wear
Gnarly Nutrition
BioLite
Oru Kayak
Climate Neutral
VanSmith
New Marine Corps Headset Protects Hearing, Enhances Voice Communication in Combat Zones
Thursday, August 12th, 2021MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va.—In July, Marine Corps Systems Command began fielding new hearing enhancement devices to support infantry Marines in various training and combat environments.
The HED protects the warfighter’s hearing and enhances voice communication in loud environments. The capability increases Marines’ situational awareness by enabling them to communicate messages more safely and efficiently during combat.
“This hearing enhancement device protects Marines from noise levels that are above safe hearing levels,” said CWO4 David Tomlinson, MCSC’s infantry weapons officer. “It also allows for sound localization, which means you can tell where a voice or noise is coming from.”
The ruggedized headset is adaptable to challenging environments ranging from the cold weather of the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the intense heat of Pacific jungles. Marines can wear the system with the Marine Corps Enhanced Combat Helmet.
MCSC is fielding both a communication-enabled and non-communication-enabled version. The non-communication version allows Marines to hear audible messages. The communication-enabled model includes a push-to-talk adapter and cables to connect to Marine Corps ground tactical radios, said Tomlinson. As a result, Marines can listen to radio transmissions even when the system is powered off.
“A major goal of this system is to increase communication in loud, noisy environments so Marines can continue to do their job,” said Tomlinson. “The hearing enhancement device supports this concept.”
The system also includes an adjustable volume option. CWO4 Mark Erhardt, infantry weapons officer with the Infantry Officers Course in Quantico, said Marines could decrease volume to better hear radio traffic or increase it for external voices nearby.
“It’s a common understanding that the battlefield is loud, and the fog of war includes many distractions,” said Erhardt. “The new hearing enhancement device will aid Marines in any situations involving sending or receiving messages, which increases overall awareness.”
Hearing protection is a pillar characteristic of the system. The HED complements the Combat Arms Earplug Generation IV—the Marine Corps’ current hearing protection system—by offering a secondary level of protection to further avoid hearing damage.
The HED comprises a setting for inner ear protection, which assists in maintaining device quality and capability. Marines can use this setting in situations where noise levels exceed a certain threshold, said Tomlinson.
Previously, Marines commonly used foam earplugs to block noise and protect their hearing on the battlefield. Tomlinson said the plugs sufficiently reduced noise decibels heard by Marines but did not allow them to vocalize messages to one another.
“Traditional earplugs block all noise, where this new system filters noise and still allows for situational awareness,” said Tomlinson. “Marines receiving the new HED have never had a capability like this before.”
Story by Marine Corps Systems Command Office of Public Affairs & Communication
U.S. Marine Corps photo by Tonya Smith
Soldiers Test New Army System to Increase Command Post Mobility
Sunday, August 8th, 2021
FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. — Soldiers from Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), conducted a Command Post Modernization Operational Assessment July 22-26, at the Kinnard Mission Training Complex on post.
Command Post Integrated Infrastructure, better known as CPI2, is a major modernization line of effort. It integrates emerging technologies and capabilities with mobile mission command platforms and command post support vehicles as a means of increasing agility and improving survivability on the battlefield.
“CIP2 will help units succeed in combat by providing mobility of the command post and getting after the signature aspects, like the electromagnetic and physical signature by reducing the number of vehicles and providing the workspace for units to be successful in their mission set,” said Lt. Col. Jeremy Rogers, product manager for CPI2.
The previous program that CPI2 is attempting to replace typically took between four and eight hours to set up and displace, says Rogers. The goal is to reduce this time down to approximately 30 minutes.
Utilizing this program has knocked placement and displacement times down to between an hour and an hour and a half, approximately 80% faster than before. This is done by reducing the footprint that the tactical command post, or TOC, normally creates.
“The TOC tents that we were used to in the past were a large footprint,” said Staff Sergeant Michael Prater, an operations and plans Noncommissioned officer for 3 BCT and battle NCO for the operation. “This is a more mobile, smaller, diverse footprint that creates a better way of getting into the fight and getting out of the fight.”
Prater’s focus, as the operational NCO, has been teaching the Soldiers, officers and other NCOs of his unit how to use, set up and tear down the equipment, focusing on increasing efficiency over time.
Being more mobile enables Soldiers to move, shoot and communicate with the efficiency they need to accomplish the mission. So far, other units that have tested this innovative system include, 2nd Stryker BCT, 2nd Infantry Division; and Headquarters, 4th Infantry Division, each with different command post configurations.
“As we take the unit feedback from both of our operational assessments, it will help inform not only our future requirements, but the baseline of the command post moving forward,” said Rogers.
Spc. Lance Lee, brigade air defense valve management systems operator for HHC, 3 BCT, says that CPI2 makes his life a lot easier because he is able to fall in on a pre-made shelter with network connectivity ports already allotted to him, eliminating time previously spent searching for a spot on the switch.
“CPI2 is a valuable asset for us because we’re able to fall in on an experimental software location where we can try new ideas, and essentially game plan to create new ways for us to affect the fight for the brigade commander,” said Lee. “I serve in the Army to make a difference, to innovate, and to get out there and try to find a new solution to currently existing problems. If I can be at the forefront of finding something that can affect the fight for the future, then I will be.”
By SPC Andrea Notter, 40th Public Affairs Detachment
