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Aware Defense

Tuesday, November 5th, 2024

During AUSA, Gentex introduced me to Aware Defense, a company which specializes in auditory defense, or hearing protection.

They demonstrated a patented, precision measuring device called eFIT, which scans the ear to create a model for perfect fit ear plugs and comms devices. Unlike foamies which only work properly about 7% of the time, these inserts protect hearing and don’t fall out, even during physical activity.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) and tinnitus rank as the top two causes of disability claims among Veterans with over 50% of close combat personnel suffering from some form of hearing loss.

Aware not only offers simple ear plugs but they also have inserts with hearing augmentation and integration with communications systems as well as the inclusion of biometric sensors. Once a model of the ear has been scanned it is available to produce any number of ear inserts. Aware works with other vendors to integrate their custom-shaped ear plugs so if a unit changes systems, there’s no need to make a new measurement. The existing record is used.

Aware has multiple products available but the two most interesting off our use are the EarShield (preserves essential hearing levels) and EarDefender (also available in vented).

Aware can visit units with the eFIT scanner to take measurements or lease it to a unit or installation.

awarecbw.com/collections/military-shop

Posted in AUSA, Comms | Comments Off on Aware Defense

Gilat Received Over $4 Million Order from the US Department of Defense

Tuesday, October 29th, 2024

Gilat to provide DKET 3421 terminals for easy-to-deploy transportable satcom network hubs

Petah Tikva, Israel, October 28, 2024 — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (Nasdaq: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions and services, announced today that the US Department of Defense awarded another contract for more than $4 million to Gilat’s US-based subsidiary, DataPath, for DKET 3421 terminals, portable satcom hubs that provide the flexibility, capacity, connectivity, and control needed to ensure mission success anywhere in the world. The orders are expected to be delivered during the first half of 2025.

The DKET 3421 is an innovative solution to customers’ needs for a high-quality, reliable terminal for mission-critical communications. The field-proven DKET 3421 terminal supports multi-carrier operations with a scalable modem architecture (up to 32 modems). Weighing under 5000 lbs. with a reduced footprint, the DKET 3421 can be easily moved by a forklift. Deploying in less than three hours, the DKET 3421 provides a satellite network hub in the form of a single-skid with the flexibility to leverage available satellite assets.

“We’re excited to receive another order for our innovative DKET 3421 from our valued military customer. This order highlights the strong trust in our company and our proven ability to deliver mission-critical solutions that meet demanding requirements,” said Nicole Robinson, President of DataPath. “It also demonstrates once again our ability to provide reliable, highly portable, and high-performance network hubs to address our customers’ evolving needs.”

Posted in Comms, Contracts, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Gilat Received Over $4 Million Order from the US Department of Defense

Silvus Technologies Unveils StreamCaster LITE 5200 SL5200: Ultra-Low SWaP OEM Module Delivering Powerful MANET Radio Performance for Leading-Edge Unmanned System

Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024

The Power to Perform – SL5200 unifies C2, sensor, and telemetry data with communications relay capabilities into one powerful (up to 2W output power – 4W effective), streamlined OEM module

Network Connectivity for Multi-Domain Operations – Powered by Silvus’ battle-proven MN-MIMO waveform, the SL5200 is capable of linking hundreds of nodes across any operational environment

Compact Size, Powerful Performance – With an ultra-low SWaP profile and versatile I/O interface options, the SL5200 is purpose-built for tactical unmanned systems – delivering Group 2 UAV level performance in a compact form factor engineered for Group 1 sized platforms

Los Angeles, California (October 22, 2024) – Silvus Technologies, Inc. (“Silvus”), a global leader in advanced wireless networking communication systems, today announced its next-generation MANET radio OEM module: the StreamCaster LITE 5200 (SL5200).

Designed for leading-edge unmanned systems, the SL5200 unifies C2, sensor, and telemetry data with communications relay capabilities in an ultra-low SWaP (52g), easy-to-integrate MANET radio module. With up to 2 Watts of native output power (4W effective power, thanks to TX Eigen-Beamforming) and up to 100 Mbps data rate, the SL5200 delivers class-leading power, high-bandwidth throughput, and tactical mobility.

Compact and versatile, with multiple I/O interface options, the SL5200 is designed for seamless integration into a wide range of tactical unmanned systems, and other Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) constrained embedded applications. Systems operators can now experience Group 2 UAV level radio performance in a compact form factor engineered for Group 1 sized platforms.

At the heart of the SL5200 is Silvus’ proprietary MN-MIMO waveform, capable of linking hundreds of nodes in any operational environment. With the SL5200, operators can connect multiple UAVs, UGVs, USVs, sensors, personnel, and manned/unmanned platforms, to actualize a common operating picture through one massively scalable mesh network. The SL5200 is seamlessly compatible with 4000-series StreamCaster MANET radios, ensuring interoperability across a diverse range of applications.

“Redefining C2 and comms mesh networking, the SL5200 delivers on Silvus’ promise of class-leading range, data throughput, scalability, and EW resilience, in an ultra-low SWaP OEM module providing robust network connectivity for multi-domain operations at the tactical edge,” said Jimi Henderson, Vice President of Sales for Silvus Technologies. “To fast-track enhanced capabilities to end-users, the SL5200 is designed for easy integration into a wide range of unmanned sub-systems, reducing development costs and speeding time to market for today’s leading-edge manufacturers.”

In addition to AES256 and FIPS 140-3 encryption for secure operations, the SL5200 provides available access to Silvus’ Spectrum Dominance expansive suite of LPI/LPD and Anti-Jamming resiliency capabilities. Silvus is the only tactical MANET radio provider that delivers Spectrum Dominance secure and protected communications in complex, congested and contested environments, without compromising performance.

Learn more about the StreamCaster LITE 5200 at www.silvustechnologies.com and follow us on LinkedIn to get the latest news.

Posted in Comms, Press Release | Comments Off on Silvus Technologies Unveils StreamCaster LITE 5200 SL5200: Ultra-Low SWaP OEM Module Delivering Powerful MANET Radio Performance for Leading-Edge Unmanned System

Blue Force Gear Adds Orange to MARCO Lineup

Wednesday, October 16th, 2024

Blue Force Gear has just released with our Orange Training Light Refill Packs for their MARCO Marking Light Dispenser.

Get yours here.

Posted in Advertiser, Comms | Comments Off on Blue Force Gear Adds Orange to MARCO Lineup

OTTO and Freedom Atlantic Unveil WedgeX to Provide Communications Overmatch for the Dismounted Warfighter

Monday, October 14th, 2024

New Tactical Power and Data Communication Solution Aims to Extend Equipment Runtime, Lighten Loadouts, and Simplify Comms Kits Reconfiguration.

Washington D.C. (Oct 14, 2024) – OTTO and Freedom Atlantic are proud to announce the commercial launch of WedgeX™, a revolutionary advancement in tactical communication technology. Designed to transform how warfighters manage their comms equipment, WedgeX introduces a new paradigm in the radio power/datawedge market, offering unparalleled adaptability, simplicity, and extended run-time for frontline operators.

As warfare evolves and battlefields become increasingly decentralized and unpredictable, warfighters face the daunting task of manually optimizing their communication kits to meet rapidly changing conditions. Traditional systems require significant time and attention for equipment management, detracting from the critical focus needed for mission success and survival.

WedgeX addresses these challenges by automating and streamlining comms equipment management. Featuring an advanced modular design, WedgeX enables soldiers to quickly reconfigure their kits based on mission requirements, significantly reducing the physical and cognitive load associated with managing multiple devices and adapters.

“WedgeX is a game-changer for the modern warfighter,” said Ken Jillson, Chief Technology Officer at Freedom Atlantic. “From the start, our mission was to create a communications solution that adapts to the soldier—not the other way around. The WedgeX system actively monitors how soldiers use their equipment and intelligently adjusts power distribution to ensure their most critical gear is operational when they need it most. Our goal is to keep warfighters mission-focused, eliminating the distraction of managing their gear.”

The WedgeX system features a suite of game-changing capabilities:

• Automatic Device Run-time Management: Utilizes advanced algorithms to monitor and manage equipment run-time, prioritize critical devices, and conserve battery life with features like power scavenging and temperature-aware charging.

• Multi-Mission Modularity: A flexible design supporting various mission profiles and power needs, from short-term to extended operations.

• Simplicity: Seamlessly integrates data from tactical devices into a unified, configurable data hub and power controller, eliminating the need for extra cables and adapters.

“WedgeX represents a significant leap forward in tactical communication systems,” stated Dan Stanek, President of OTTO. “By offering automatic run-time management and a streamlined configuration process, WedgeX enhances operational efficiency and soldier survivability. It’s designed to meet the evolving demands of modern combat.”

The WedgeX System comprises two primary components: the WedgeX Radio Power Adapter and the SideLink Modular Radio Hub Adapter. The Radio Power Adapter, installed between the radio and battery, supports existing tactical radios with a MIL-STD twist-lock bayonet-style battery interface. The SiswLink connects the WedgeX, radio data interfaces, ATAK EUD, and external data devices, ensuring seamless integration without the need for additional unnecessary external devices.

Co-developed by OTTO and Freedom Atlantic, WedgeX provides warfighters with a comms overmatch by redefining tactical radio power and data distribution. This innovative solution offers rapid adaptability, extended run-time, and lighter loadouts.

Contact OTTO today for more information or a demonstration.

Posted in AUSA, Comms, Power, Press Release | 1 Comment »

DISCO 32’s CONSTANT ABLE Goes On Pre-Order 10/11

Wednesday, October 9th, 2024

CONSTANT ABLE is one of the most amazing communications accessories I’ve seen in some time. If you’ve ever heard the cliché of “one ring to rule them all” then you understand that ?CONSTANT ABLE is the last PTT you’ll need. It works with everything they’ve thrown at it so far. Just plug and play.

And now, CONSTANT ABLE will be available for pre-order starting this Friday, 10/11. Estimated delivery date is the end of Q4 2024. Pricing starts at $250 and goes to $299 depending on the radio model. Their Goal with the pre-order is to better gauge interest and be prepped to fulfill demand vs selling out right away.

DISXO 32 promises to keep everyone as up to date as possible on the exact delivery date, and if for some reason you pre-order and need to cancel, that option will be available to you.

Go here to turn on email alerts for when CONSTANT is live on the website. More radio models coming soon.

Posted in Advertiser, Comms | 1 Comment »

Individual Signaling Panel from Gathering of Minds Designs

Friday, September 27th, 2024

The Individual Signaling Panel (ISP) is GOM’s adaptation of the iconic VS/17 panel, purpose-built for today’s rifleman. Measuring a compact 12×12 inches, the ISP features a high-visibility orange side for signaling and a Multicam side to ensure the user does not inadvertently signal unfriendly forces to their rear.

Get yours at gomdesigns.com.

Posted in Comms | 3 Comments »

MSRS Navigation – A Solution for Navigating in a GPS-Denied Environment

Wednesday, September 25th, 2024

I get excited when I find out about small businesses with innovative technologies that solve real problems, particularly those owned by fellow veterans. Even better when these capabilities are low cost.

Take for example, MSRS Navigation, which was founded by a retired Tier One operator after having experienced GPS jamming while deployed overseas. In fact, all five of the company’s employees are Veterans and the gear is made in Asheville, NC.

Confronting the Electronic Warfare threat is now a challenge faced by everyone and the Western use of Global Positioning System for navigation can no longer be solely relied upon to accurately determine position and route.

MSRS Navigation has developed the only ITAR-free, Denied-GPS navigation system. What’s more, the system is completely non-RF, with no reliance on satellites or any signals for that matter. There’s nothing to jam.

Having been awarded two patents with three more in process, they instead rely upon an AI/ML engine which examines data and identifies errors from GPS degradation, identifying last known good point to base modeling from. This is supplemented with real-time data from multiple sensors. The result is .1 meter accuracy per mile and is correctable by the end user at any point by simple correction via drag/drop of the icon on the map-based interface GUI, to the correct point. Alternatively, there is a plug-in for ATAK users.

The systems runs independently from, but in parallel with GPS, allowing the user to rely upon GPS in high-fidelity environments. At any point, the user can switch to MSRS if for example, they enter a degraded environment such as jamming or dense foliage or tunnels. MSRS always runs in the background.

The current Army program of record is Mounted Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing System (MAPS) Gen II which is great if you’re part of the BOIP. If not, MSRS is available today, for immediate deployment. Over forty of their fly away kits (FAK) are currently in use with US and International SOF in overseas combat environments.

Simple to employ, the FAK comes packed in a Pelican 1200 and can be installed in under 30 minutes. Additionally, MSRS is about the quarter of the price of MAPS.

While the system is currently configured for ground and sub-T navigation, the company has a CRADA in place with USSOCOM through SOFWERX to support an upcoming evaluation of the system. To expand its use, they have partnered with Hefring Marine out of Iceland to build a Maritime system and expect to have a working prototype in early 2025.

For more information, visit www.msrsnav.com.

–Eric Graves

Posted in Comms, EW | 5 Comments »