Hunt Valley, Maryland. August 30, 2019 – Textron Systems, a business of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT), announced today its selection by the U.S. Army’s Project Manager Soldier Weapons as one of three organizations to deliver Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) based on the company’s mature, high-performance cased telescoped (CT) technology. Under this award, Textron Systems will deliver 43 6.8mm CT NGSW-Automatic Rifles and 53 NGSW-Rifles, as well as 845,000 rounds of CT ammunition during a 27-month period of performance.
To support the NGSW prototype program, Textron Systems leads a world-class team that offers decades of trusted small arms experience and includes Heckler & Koch, as well as Olin Winchester. Heckler & Koch provides renowned small arms design, research and development, and manufacturing capabilities, while Olin Winchester brings renowned small caliber ammunition production capabilities.
“We have assembled a team that understands and can deliver on the rigorous requirements for this U.S. Army program with mature and capable technology, reliable program execution and dedicated user support,” says Wayne Prender, Textron Systems’ Senior Vice President, Applied Technologies and Advanced Programs. “Together, we are honored to support America’s soldiers with the next-generation capabilities they need in their most dangerous missions.”
Textron Systems has successfully demonstrated its high capability and low-risk 6.8mm CT system that provides significant performance enhancements over current Army systems. The design features improved accuracy and greater muzzle velocity for increased performance, as well as weight savings of both weapon and ammunition over current Army systems. It also incorporates advanced suppressor technology to reduce the firing signature and improve controllability.
Under earlier development programs, Textron Systems successfully scaled its lightweight CT technology into numerous calibers and configurations, demonstrating its technical maturity, as well as scalability for future growth to support U.S. close combat forces against current and future adversaries.
Posted in Contracts, Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on Textron Systems Leads Experienced Team Selected by U.S. Army to Participate in the Next Generation Squad Weapons Prototype Program
Last night, the Army announced the three companies which will proceed to Phase 2 of the Next Generation Squad Weapons Program. This solicitation is a Prototype Project Opportunity Notice (PPON), a Other Transaction Agreement under Section 804 Authority.
The PPON called for each vendor to develop two weapon variants under the NGSW program and 6.8 millimeter ammunition common to both weapons. This is NOT the 6.8 SPC cartridge evaluated by USSOCOM in the early 00s, but rather more akin to 270 WSM.
The three companies selected are:
W15QKN-19-9-1024 – General Dynamics-OTS Inc. – Williston, VT
W15QKN-19-9-1025 – AAI Corporation Textron Systems – Hunt Valley, MD
W15QKN-19-9-1022 – Sig Sauer Inc. – Newington, NH
Although the Army has tried over the years to find a replacement for the M-16 family of weapons, which the M4A1 Carbine is the latest iteration of, none have been successful. Each and every time, the Army has found that the candidate weapons did not result in a great enough improvement in lethality to replace the status quo. This time, the Army called a new effect on target, driving the development of both cartridge and weapon.
Specifically, the Army is seeking a Next Generation Squad Weapon-Rifle (NGSW-R) and Next Generation Squad Weapon-Automatic Rifle (NGSW-AR). The NGSW-R is the planned replacement for the M4/M4A1 Carbine and the NGSW-AR is the planned replacement for the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) in the Automatic Rifleman Role in the Close Combat Force.
According to the solicitation, the duration for each prototype OTA is estimated to be up to eight years. The first 27 months will be for prototyping the NGSW-R, NGSW-AR, and ammunition. Following this prototyping effort, there may be additional iterative prototyping efforts for the NGSW-R, NGSW-AR, and ammunition. These iterative prototyping efforts will each have separate durations and will occur within the eight year duration.
Furthermore, in accordance with 10 U.S.C. 2371b(f), and upon a determination that the prototype project (or any subsequent iterative prototyping efforts) was successfully completed under the competitively awarded OTA(s), a follow-on production contract(s) or OTA(s) may be awarded without the use of competitive procedures.
Because of the duration of the OTA, and that prototype OTA will undergo two prototype test events including Soldier Touch Points, they are asking for a lot more weapons and ammunition than in the current NGSAR PON. Deliverables for each prototype OTA include 53 NGSW-R weapons, 43 NGSW-AR weapons, 845,000 rounds of ammunition, spare parts, test barrels, tools/gauges/accessories, engineering support, and iterative prototyping efforts as defined in the Statement of Work.
The follow-on production award(s) is planned to be an Indefinite Delivery / Indefinite Quantity Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) based contract with Firm Fixed Price Delivery Orders up to ten years or a fixed amount OTA up to ten years. The production award(s) may include 250,000 total weapons system(s) (NGSW-R, NGSW-AR, or both), 150,000,000 rounds of ammunition, spare parts, tools/gauges/accessories, and engineering support. The value of this follow-on production award(s) is estimated to be $10M in the first year and estimated $150M per year at the higher production rates.
GD comes in partnered with True Velocity ammunition and their polymer case design. However, the ammunition for this program features an entirely new case and is called the True Velocity Composite Munition.
Additionally, we hear that GD submitted a bullpup carbine, which several sources have claimed is what the Marine Corps hopes to get from NGSW. Considering the 6.8mm requirement, rumors that they are using the Desert Tech MDR seem like a good bet. Update: it’s not the MDR, but rather a new bullpup design.
AAI Textron is seen by many as the government solution as their weapon and Case Telescoping technology has been funded for years under the Lightweight Small Arms Technology program.
It is the most radical departure of the three from currently fielded weapons. This is a video of their technology demonstrator shown at a recent industry meeting.
LAPD’s SWAT team rescues dozens of hostages and manages 120-plus high-risk warrants and approximately 100 barricaded suspect cases per year. It responds to barricade or hostage incidents where the suspect is believed to be armed or an extreme threat to public safety. Typical situations include the presence of weapons, suspected gang activity and heavily fortified locations.
LASD is the largest sheriff’s department in the world. The Special Enforcement Bureau, newly equipped with Team Wendy helmets, is a full-time unit of tactical paramedics and rescue specialists, including a canine detail and a special weapons team. It works hand-in-hand with the department’s arson/explosives and hazardous materials details and coordinates security for visiting dignitaries and politicians, including the United States President and Vice President. SEB responds to an estimated 200-300 tactical operations every year, including barricaded suspects, high-risk warrants and hostage situations.
Team Wendy CEO Jose Rizo-Patron said the company exists for the sole purpose of protecting officers like these.
“The men and women of the LAPD and LASD put their lives on the line every day and we take pride in knowing we play a role in their safety,” he said. “This is why we do what we do.”
Joe Nagy, who works with law enforcement agencies around the country on behalf of Team Wendy, said the EXFIL Ballistic SL is built to do exactly what these agencies need.
“We spent a long time engineering this helmet so it would perform at a high caliber,” he said.
The EXFIL Ballistic SL is the fifth helmet in Team Wendy’s EXFIL line. It has a complete system weight of 2.2 pounds, meets a ballistic rating of NIJ Level III-A (according to NIJ STD 0106.01/0108.01) and exceeds ACH blunt impact protection requirements. It features the newer, lighter EXFIL Rail 3.0 for more efficient accessory mounting and the boltless CAM FIT™ Retention System for individualized fit and superior weight distribution.
LAPD and LASD join Orange County Sheriff’s Office and more than 20 other law enforcement agencies in southern California that wear Team Wendy helmet systems.
NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support, Mechanicsburg, PA has issued a Request for Information to industry for Suppressors compatible with the M2A1 .50 Machine Gun.
In addition to being resistant to a maritime environment and having no impact in barrel life, the Navy desires these capabilities as well:
Back in May we told you of the Marine Corps’ desire to field a Squad Common Optic for the M27 Infantry Assault Rifle which is becoming the standard weapon for Marines in the Infantry Squad. The Marines envision the SCO as a magnified optic to improve target acquisition and probability of hit P(h) between 0-600 meters (m). The SCO includes a non-caliber specific reticle, is variable power, and incorporates a user selectable illuminated or non-illuminated aim-point.
Marine Corps Systems Command (MCSC), Portfolio Manager Ground Combat Element Systems (PfM GCES), Program Manager Infantry Weapon just released a pre-solicitation to industry, which serves as a Warning Order that they plan to open a Full and Open Competitive solicitation for the SCO on or about September 13, 2019 with proposal due date on or about October 21, 2019.
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) has selected INVISIO to provide a suite of hearing enhancement solutions over the coming years that will protect Marines’ hearing while increasing their situational awareness in a variety of training and combat environments. A first order of SEK 43 million has been received that will be delivered during the next 6 months.
The INVISIO systems are compatible with Marine Corps radios and the Marine Corps Enhanced Combat Helmet. The systems consist of both communications enabled versions and as well as hearing protection only. The Program Manager for Infantry Combat Equipment (PM ICE) at Marine Corps System Command is the procuring office.
The new headset systems will allow Marines to wear hearing protection, yet still provide the opportunity to communicate and understand what is going on around them. Infantry, artillery, reconnaissance and combat engineer Marines decided on INVISIO systems based on fit, form, function and comfort. PM ICE will field a suite of hearing protection systems, and Marines will get what they need based on their specific role and unit.
The headset systems are rugged and capable of operating in a wide range of environments a Marine might encounter, from cold weather to extreme heat. In the future, MCSC will release new weapon systems that could potentially cause a greater risk to Marines’ hearing. To be prepared, PM ICE wants to ensure Marines ears are protected in advance. The goal is to field a hearing system that will help Marines communicate better and increase their capabilities on the battlefield.
”We are very excited and pleased to have won the competition for the Marine Hearing Enhancement Program. We look forward to providing Marines with a suite of hearing protection and tactical communications systems combining both protection and capability”, said Ray Clarke, CEO of INVISIO Communications Inc. in the U.S.
“Winning the Marine Hearing Enhancement Program is a milestone for INVISIO and a further strengthening of our already market leading position in the U.S. We are very proud and ready to support the United States Marine Corps over the coming years”, said Lars Højga?rd Hansen, CEO of INVISIO Communications.
August 15, 2019, Greensboro, NC – Burlington Industries LLC, a division of Elevate Textiles, announced today it has been awarded a $1.6 million contract to supply the U.S. Marine Corps with micro denier polyester fabrics for use in their physical training (PT) trunks. These fabrics will be produced at the company’s facilities in Cordova and Burlington, North Carolina.
This lightweight woven 100% micro denier polyester fabric utilizes Burlington’s Moisture Control System® (MCS®) technology for advanced breathability and moisture management. MCS® technology increases the hydrophilic properties of fabric by allowing moisture to dissipate, transporting along the yarn faster. MCS® keeps the wearer dry and comfortable by absorbing moisture and moving it away from the skin as it evaporates off of the surface of the fabric.
Burlington Labs®, Burlington’s in-house Research and Development incubator, engineers advanced fabrications and technical finishes that are applied to protect and enhance performance while providing troops advanced functionality in diverse environments.
“We take pride in making fabric that serves those who serve our country,” says Allen Smith, President of Burlington. “Our MCS® technology for the general purpose trunk provides the ultimate comfort and durability to withstand the rigors of the U.S. Marine Corps physical training. As we continue to develop innovative fabrics and technologies aimed at equipping and protecting the U.S. Armed Forces, our focus is delivering the same unmatched performance, protection, and service that has defined our business since 1923.”
For more than 55 years, Burlington has been an integral part of the defense supply chain as a global textile leader with core competencies in worsted wool and performance synthetics. Burlington® Military Solutions offers a diverse range of vertical manufacturing capabilities, fiber and fabric blends, and is proud to provide high quality fabrics for United States Military personnel.
Burlington® Military Solutions specializes in meeting the specific needs of the military market. The combination of resources from the company’s Burlington, Safety Components, and Carlisle Finishing business units creates an extensive platform of diversified military fabrics. These products include fabrics for physical training, extreme cold weather wear, Class A dress uniforms, camouflage combat and utility uniforms, flame resistant and protective clothing, and other high performance materials.
GENTEX CORPORATION AWARDED GSA SCHEDULE 84 CONTRACT FOR OPS-CORE AMP™ COMMUNICATION HEADSET
Configurable headset solution delivers 3D Hear-Through and advanced hearing protection for combat operations
August 13, 2019
Carbondale, PA, August 13, 2019. Gentex Corporation, a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, emergency responders, and industrial personnel announced it has been awarded a Schedule 84 contract by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), the procurement arm of the federal government, for its Ops-Core AMP Communication Headset. GSA Schedule 84 provides federal agencies with security, fire, and law enforcement equipment and services. The contract period is five years, with three separate five-year options.
“This GSA award provides a streamlined contract vehicle for federal customers to purchase our innovative new Ops-Core AMP Communication Headset, a rapid modernization path for those organizations looking to update their situational awareness, communication, and protection capabilities,” said Tom Short, Vice President Ground Systems, Gentex Corporation. “It also allows Gentex Corporation to continue its expansion of its growing communications and hearing protection product portfolio into the federal marketplace and complements existing GSA contracts held by the company.”
Introduced in the fall of 2018, the Ops-Core AMP Communication Headset features 3D Hear-Through Technology, which restores and enhances the operator’s “natural hearing” of the outside environment for improved situational awareness in high noise environments, while also providing robust hearing protection with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22db. With the addition of optional wire-free, battery-free, Near Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) Earplugs, NRR is increased to 34dB, while maintaining clear-communication audio and ambient hear through. For optimal flexibility and mission performance, the modular headset can be easily configured to meet a wide range of mission needs with options for headband or helmet rail-mounted use, single or double hearing protection, left- and right-handed configurations of headset downlead cable and boom microphone, and single or multi-channel communications. To learn more about the headset, go to www.opscore.com.
Federal customers can access information about the Ops-Core AMP Communication Headset through the GSA Schedules e-Library by searching by contract number (Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) GS-07F-0430K), or other keywords denoting the product or service being sought. They can also place orders on-line through GSA Advantage.
The GSA carefully evaluates companies to determine their capability for providing products to the government. The assessment analyzes a variety of a corporation’s capabilities, including organizational structure, performance history, customer satisfaction, and other source selection criteria. Holding this contract demonstrates that Gentex Corporation is recognized as a preferred vendor and is fully authorized to conduct business directly with government agencies. To learn more about GSA visit gsa.gov.
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