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Rheinmetall Wins Major Contract: Austria Orders State-of-the-Art Air Defence System for €532 Million

Wednesday, December 13th, 2023

The Austrian defence ministry has contracted with Rheinmetall to carry out a comprehensive modernization of its existing Skyguard air defence systems. In the presence of Austrian minister of defence Klaudia Tanner, the two parties have now signed the contract for Project Skyguard Next Generation in Vienna. For Rheinmetall the order represents sales of €532 million (without value added tax), which can already be booked as an incoming order in December 2023. The contract encompasses a project period of 48 months starting in February 2024.
On behalf of Austria, a neighbouring nation and close partner of Germany, Rheinmetall will be conducting one of the most ambitious air defence projects in Europe. For the Austrian Army, the undertaking is an important step in its “Mission Forward” rearmament programme to revamp the country’s armed forces.
Armin Papperger, chairman of the executive board of Rheinmetall AG, welcomed the news: “We’re delighted by this important market win for Skynex technology. In this flagship project, Austria is at the absolute forefront of antiaircraft and counter-drone defence in Europe. This major order also highlights Rheinmetall’s key role in reequipping the armed forces of Europe in response to new threats. Our solutions for stationary and mobile air defence are part of this.”
Skyguard Next Generation belongs to the Skynex family of products from Rheinmetall Air Defence, the global leader in close-range air defence technology. The order package for Austria comprises a total of seven tactical units, each consisting of four 35mm guns, a sensor unit for monitoring airspace and a command post. In the process, twenty-eight 35mm guns currently in the customer’s inventory will be upgraded to the latest state of the art. The contract also includes spare parts, training support and 35mm ammunition. A contractually agreed option for ordering an additional tactical unit exists as well.
In the words of Oliver Dürr, CEO of Rheinmetall Air Defence AG in Zürich, “We greatly appreciate the trust of our friends and partners in Austria. The Austrian Army’s decision in favour of Skyguard Next Generation is more than just a quantum leap – it opens the door to a whole dimension in antiaircraft and counter-drone capabilities.”

Austria is getting a custom-built, pathbreaking solution for close-range air defence. “The order is a significant gain for our company”, declares Dürr, “and especially for our Zürich plant, which is responsible for carrying out the project, where it will make a decisive contribution to capacity utilization.”
The Skyguard Next Generation system is based on existing weapons systems owned by the Austrian Army. As part of a service life extension programme, its existing 35mm Oerlikon twin guns will be completely modernized and linked to a high-performance target tracking capability and Rheinmetall’s Skymaster command system.
Extraordinarily high-precision sensors make it possible to detect and identify aerial targets at an early stage. The command system lets the operator build up a local picture, evaluate the threat situation and, in close coordination with high-echelon elements, open fire. Guided missiles can also be incorporated into the system.
The complete system is highly mobile, assuring maximum efficiency during military planning. The guns can be dismounted and/or operated remotely, keeping troops well out of harm’s way while simultaneously improving combat effectiveness.
Rheinmetall’s Skynex
Cannon-based air defence solutions from the “Skynex” family of products are especially appropriate for short-range operations, where guided missiles cannot be used effectively. The Skynex system encompasses airspace surveillance, a weapon engagement centre, and effectors. Featuring a rate of fire of 1,000 rounds per minute and a maximum effective range of up to 4,000 metres, Oerlikon rapid-fire automatic cannon serve as the effectors
The success of the ageing 35mm Gepard antiaircraft tank in Ukraine underscores the effectiveness of cannon-based in countering aerial targets – especially cruise missiles and drones – and the continuing relevance of this capability today in close-range air defence.
Compared with the Gepard, however, Skynex offers a generational leap in terms of sensor technology as well as the possibility of networked application of multiple tactical units and inclusion in higher-echelon command and control systems. Moreover, using Rheinmetall’s programmable 35mm Ahead ammunition gives Skynex a unique edge when it comes to successfully combatting aerial targets.

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Indian River County Sheriff’s Office Fields FN 509 MRD-LE Pistols Agencywide

Tuesday, December 12th, 2023

(McLean, VA – December 12, 2023) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce that Indian River County Sheriff’s Office (IRCSO) of Vero Beach, Florida, has selected the FN 509® MRD-LE 9mm striker-fired pistol as their new sidearm and have issued the pistols to their more than 370 sworn deputies. The order was fulfilled through FN Law Enforcement Distributor, Dana Safety.

“We are extremely pleased to partner with Indian River County Sheriff’s Office as they field the FN 509 MRD-LE to their deputies,” said Doug Grier, Law Enforcement Business Development Director for FN America, LLC. “As they began their selection process, Indian River County Sheriff’s Office sought a new pistol that was safe and reliable for their officers to carry in the line of duty, along with a brand partner they could rely on. FN met those needs with our commitment to service and with a duty pistol designed for law enforcement, by law enforcement.”

“We are dedicated to ensuring the safety of our deputies and providing them with durable equipment to keep our community safe. Our oath to public safety remains our top priority and these new firearms are a testament to that commitment,” said Sherriff Eric Flowers, Indian River County Sheriff’s Office. “FN’s 509 MRD-LE has demonstrated to have improved accuracy and sighting versatility that coincides with the needs of our agency. We have already received our first shipment of pistols and have qualified all of our staff. Stay tuned for updates on this important transition.”

Developed for the demands of duty use and the professional user, the FN 509 MRD-LE is FN’s premier law enforcement pistol. Fully vetted through rigorous endurance testing to function with 9mm + P duty-style ammunition, the FN 509 MRD-LE delivers reliable, accurate and durable function throughout the service life of the pistol.

Topped with a 4-inch slide, that houses the FN-signature cold hammer-forged barrel, the FN 509 MRD-LE was designed for accuracy and features the company’s patented optics-mounting system that enables the direct mounting of several miniature red dot optics along with adjustable three-dot night sights.

The proven design features four passive safety systems, including a trigger safety incorporated into the flat-faced trigger. The contoured frame design delivers superior ergonomics and effective recoil management that accommodates nearly all hand sizes through the interchangeable backstraps while maintaining a natural point of aim enabling users to acquire their sights rapidly.

To inquire about the FN 509 MRD-LE, IRCSO’s newest duty-issue sidearm, for agency or individual officer purchase, please contact the FN Law Enforcement Sales team at LE@fnamerica.com. More information about the FN 509 MRD-LE or FN’s other law enforcement products can be found at www.fnamerica.com.

*Winchester Firearms is a registered trademark owned by the Olin Corporation.

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Blackhawk Awarded T-Series Holster Contract with Belgian Federal Police

Sunday, December 10th, 2023

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – December 7, 2023 – Blackhawk®, a leader in law enforcement and military equipment for over 30 years and a Vista Outdoor Inc. (NYSE:VSTO) brand, announced today that the United Security Group (USG) has been awarded a four-year contract from the Federal Police in Belgium to deliver new duty holsters from the brand’s T-Series holster line. As part of the contract, law enforcement professionals within the Belgian Federal Police and local police zones in Belgium will begin utilizing T-Series L3D holsters to carry their primary service pistols.

“This contract is a testament to the craftsmanship of Blackhawk products and the brand’s commitment to equipping law enforcement officials around the globe,” said Jeff Sposito, who leads the Blackhawk and Stone Glacier brands of Vista Outdoor. “We take pride in supplying military personnel and law enforcement officers with the gear they need to keep their communities safe, and we know the Belgian Federal Police are now carrying the world’s best holster.”

The Belgian Federal Police selected the Blackhawk holsters to carry their service pistol, the Smith & Wesson M&P9, while the local police zones in Belgium will have the ability to purchase new duty holsters compatible with their Glock 17/45 service pistols.

The USG noted that Blackhawk T-Series is a secure and versatile platform, with the T-Series L3D holsters coming standard with the Jacket Slot Belt Loop or being compatible with the agency selected Blackhawk Micro Tac Platform. This modularity allows officers to select the form of carry most suited to their needs without sacrificing accessibility or security.

The contract has a value of over $2.1 million and features the same holster solution that was adopted earlier this year by the French Army and the Niedersachsen State Police of Germany.

“We are honored to have our T-Series holsters selected by such a prestigious international agency,” said Liam Yarbrough, senior product line manager with Blackhawk. “This partnership signifies the trust officers place in our holsters, and it reinforces our commitment to keeping those who protect and serve safe on the job. It’s a privilege to play a role in their mission, and we take this responsibility seriously.”

To date, T-Series holsters have been selected for duty use by over 3,200 law enforcement agencies both in the U.S. and abroad. As the world’s first thumb-driven, dual-injected molded holster, the T-Series is Blackhawk’s premier duty-rated holster.

Learn more about Blackhawk’s T-Series holster and other duty products at blackhawk.com

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Rohde & Schwarz Supplies Combat Net Radio for Bundeswehr

Friday, December 8th, 2023

Rohde & Schwarz is the driving force for equipping the German armed forces digital modernization effort with the latest radio communications technology.

Munich, December 7, 2023 – Rohde & Schwarz is pleased to announce its continuous delivery for German armed forces (Bundeswehr) combat net radio (CNR) program, following the selection and contract signing in December 2022 and the recent final confirmation of the procurement. These radios will equip a multitude of the Bundeswehr’s operational platforms and soldiers in command functions. A significant number of communications devices have already been delivered, demonstrating Rohde & Schwarz’ production excellence.

The selected CNR, based on the system and waveforms of the Joint Service Interoperable Radio Equipment (SVFuA) developed and introduced for the Bundeswehr, is already in use in key systems of the land forces. It includes various interoperable form factors, such as vehicle and handheld radios, fixed stations, backpack radios, and a tactical radio for airborne platforms. It provides secure and jam-resistant networking with the Bundeswehr’s national waveforms in parallel to trans-European interoperability with the ESSOR OC1 waveform.

“We are very proud of the selection to equip our land forces with top-notch communication solutions,” said Alexander Philipp, Managing Director of Rohde & Schwarz Vertriebs-GmbH. “The high-rate deliveries of the radio equipment pave the way for a timely provision of the Army with cutting-edge communication and radio technology, marking a major step towards the modernization and digitalization of the Bundeswehr, including the contributions along Germany’s commitments to NATO and EU.”

“We are confident that our communication solutions will greatly enhance the Bundeswehr’s capabilities and support their mission-critical operations. We look forward to support the Bundeswehr and the selected platform integrators to ensure a seamless integration of our communication systems into the overarching architecture and the various platforms.”

The partnership between Rohde & Schwarz and the Bundeswehr highlights the company’s ability to provide leading market-available technology and reinforces the position of Rohde & Schwarz as a trusted partner for defense forces worldwide.

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Elbit America Wins $500 Million Contract to Continue Supplying Night Vision to USMC

Thursday, December 7th, 2023

The Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggle is lightweight, provides critical advantages on the modern battlefield

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – DEC. 7, 2023 – Elbit America received a five-year Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract from the United States Marine Corps (USMC) to continue producing the Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggle (SBNVG). The competitive contract is worth up to $500 million, with an initial delivery order for nearly $127 million. The goggles will be produced in Roanoke, Virginia. The company has delivered more than 15,000 SBNVG systems to the USMC since 2019.

The SBNVG has proven to be a game-changer in modern warfare, as it is lightweight without compromising capability. The goggles currently provide image intensification, with an enhanced clip-on thermal imager. The set-up allows Marines to operate at night, or in dark buildings and tunnels where one’s situational awareness is challenged.

The SBNVG is a helmet-mounted system that provides Marines with increased depth perception, enhanced clarity through high-performance white phosphor image intensifier tubes, a thermal-imaging capability, and more. These features, along with extra-long run times, provide Marines an added edge on the battlefield.

“No matter the light conditions or environment, Marines are tapped for challenging missions. Equipped with Elbit America’s Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggles, Marines can quickly understand their surroundings and act,” said Erik Fox, Vice President of Warfighter Systems at Elbit America.

“Elbit America is proud of our long history supplying Marines with night vision and electro-optic innovations,” said Raanan Horowitz, the company’s president and CEO. “We continue to refine our portfolio, offering solutions that enable the networked Warfighter of the future with sophisticated decision aids and display systems that work in all operational environments.”

More details about Elbit America Night Vision are available at www.elbitamerica.com/night-vision.

Posted in Contracts, Optics, Press Release, USMC | 3 Comments »

Rheinmetall Wins Major Artillery Ammunition Order for Ukraine Worth Over €140 Million

Tuesday, December 5th, 2023

Rheinmetall has won a large-volume order for supporting Ukraine with artillery ammunition. The Düsseldorf-based tech enterprise has been tasked with supplying Kyiv with artillery rounds worth around €142 million. The order encompasses tens of thousands of complete 155mm artillery shells, including the projectile, fuse (for the explosive charge), propellant and primer (for igniting the propellant). The customer is a NATO partner nation whose declared intention is to support Ukraine in its defensive struggle with effective long-term military aid.

The shells will be produced by Rheinmetall Expal Munitions, the Group’s newly acquired Spanish subsidiary. The current contract highlights Rheinmetall’s role as the world’s largest producer of ammunition, especially in the large calibre domain. The ammunition will be delivered in 2025. Production and delivery of around 40,000 rounds for Ukraine from an earlier order is already due to take place in 2024.

As recently as mid-October 2023, the German government placed an order with Rheinmetall for over 100,000 rounds of 155mm ammunition earmarked for Ukraine – once again from Rheinmetall Expal Munitions – as well as additional DM 121 high explosive shells. The order is worth a figure in the mid-three-digit million-euro range.

Demand for artillery ammunition is currently very high, due not just to Ukraine’s requirements but also the need to replenish the largely empty ammunition depots of Germany and other NATO and EU countries. Rheinmetall plans a massive increase in ammunition production capacity in 2024 at its plants in Germany, Spain, South Africa and Australia, bringing annual output capacity to around 700,000 artillery rounds.

Rheinmetall currently has multiyear framework contracts for supplying the German Bundeswehr with several hundred rounds of artillery ammunition worth over €1 billion.

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LAPD Selects Geissele Super Duty AR for SWAT and TST

Wednesday, November 29th, 2023

The Los Angeles Police Department has selected Geissele Automatics to provide rifles for their Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) and the Tactical Surveillance Team. This selection was determined after a lengthy and thorough process by the Department Staff and will replace legacy weapons systems currently in use.

They chose the Super Duty AR Pattern Rifle for its durability and reliability characteristics. It features a 11.5” Cold Hammer Forged Barrel and Reliability Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group with NANO Weapon Coating.

This adds to a trend within Southern California Law Enforcement Agencies adopting the Geissele Rifles to include Arcadia PD, Pomona PD, Huntington Beach PD and Azusa PD.

Posted in Contracts, LE, weapons | 5 Comments »

Rheinmetall Electronics UK’s Contract Award to Supply Trailblazer Camera System to UK Warrior IFVs

Sunday, November 26th, 2023

Rheinmetall has been awarded a contract by the UK Ministry of Defence to supply the Trailblazer driver’s view system for the Warrior infantry fighting vehicle fleet. Rheinmetall Electronics UK Ltd won the contract in an open competition and will now supply Trailblazers for a total of 359 Warrior infantry fighting vehicles. The order value is in the low double-digit million euro range.

The Trailblazer cameras will be used as a Rear Safety Camera System (RSCS) for the Warrior vehicle, providing a key safety feature for the driver to recognise terrain and personnel at the rear of the vehicle.

The camera proposed by Rheinmetall Electronics UK is also used as the PAX camera on the Boxer Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) – part of the vehicles complete local situational awareness system. The PAX model comprises an infrared camera with a 90° field of view giving coverage down to 0 Lux, allowing the driver a wide field of view across the width of the vehicle.

On the Boxer MIV programme, it has recently been independently confirmed that the Trailblazer system will be compliant to an internationally recognised functional safety standard (IEC 61508, within a SIL2 application).

Alongside delivery into the Warrior and Boxer MIV programmes, Rheinmetall Electronics UK are also providing the Driver Vision System on the Challenger 3 main battle tank programme. Boxer MIV and Challenger 3 represent two of the most important modernisation programs for the British Army. Selection of a common Trailblazer solution provides excellent coherence across the fleet.

As part of this programme, Rheinmetall Electronics UK will be delivering the latest, Third Generation Trailblazer solutions, which are fully software defined, Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA) compatible and have already been qualified to safety and EMC standards, reducing risks around integration. The cameras support continuous, incremental updates, ensuring the capability remains evergreen.

Wayne Cranwell, Rheinmetall Electronics UK Head of Sales said: “Our solution to the Warrior RSCS requirement was founded on the mature design we provide into the Boxer MIV programme ensuring effective and safe rearward operations. Great to see that DE&S identified our proposal as the best value offer in this competition – this will keep this important British Army capability current for the remainder of its in-service lifetime.”

Richard Streeter, Rheinmetall Electronics UK Managing Director said: “It is heartening to see coherence developing across the UK fleet vehicle vision. This approach drives down integration and delivery risk and timelines as well as the total cost of ownership for the UK MoD. The Trailblazer Gen 3 solution was specifically developed to meet the demanding requirements of the UK Army and it will be great to see this system now also supporting the safety needs of the Warrior platform.”

Brigadier Matt Wilkinson, Vehicle Support Team Leader, Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), said: “This safety critical upgrade to Warrior is being delivered at pace and with the principals of quality, supportability, and value for money at its heart. The DE&S Vehicle Support Team look forward to working with Rheinmetall Electronics UK in integrating this leading-edge technology to our in-service fleet of Armoured Infantry Fighting Vehicles over the next 12 months.”

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