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Spectra Group Announces the Award of a Contract to Supply Troposcatter COMET to the Irish Defence Force

Friday, February 21st, 2025

Spectra Group (UK) Ltd, the specialist provider of secure voice, data and satellite communications systems, has announced a contract award to supply the Irish Defence Force with Comtech’s Troposcatter Compact Over-the Horizon Mobile Expeditionary Terminals (COMET). Spectra Group acquired the global distribution rights to supply Comtech’s Troposcatter Family of Systems (FoS) in February 2024 (less USA, Canada and Mexico which Comtech retains). This procurement is the next in a series of overseas sales under this agreement. The Irish Defence Force has procured a number of COMET systems, with more systems and the associated training and support package in the pipeline, including aspirations to deploy the new Troposcatter on the Move (TOTM) enhancement; more news on this exciting new capability coming soon. Spectra Group is attending EnForce Tac in Booth 7-360 showcasing their specific communication capabilities, including GENSS. Troposcatter COMET will also be on display at the JK Defence booth (10-521).

Tropospheric scatter is a communications capability that uses the Troposphere (up to about 13km altitude) to provide high bandwidth communications. It is satellite independent and works in a GPS/GNSS denied environment, so is suitable for use in a Peer-on-Peer conflict/Multi Domain Integration. Troposcatter inherently has very low latency and can provide huge bandwidth, enabling analysis and manipulation of large data, which combined with its low operating cost makes it suitable for strategic and tactical headquarters. In the past, Troposcatter technology required large power-hungry equipment unsuitable for expeditionary or manoeuvre warfare. However, modern technology and significant development by Comtech has revolutionised the size, weight and power of the Troposcatter Family of Systems, of which, COMET is the smallest and most lightweight.

COMET is specifically designed for rapid deployments and mobile operations, delivering high bandwidth (5-60Mbps) and long-range connectivity (70km+) while operating efficiently with just 10 Watts of power—currently the only low-power Troposcatter system available. The COMET system uses a single 1-metre dish and the COMTECH CS67Plus Modem capable of up to 210Mbps, which takes the IP stream and directly converts to two RF outputs in the range 4.4-5Ghz to provide two frequencies, amplified by Dual 10W GaN amps (Dual LNA on the receive path). This allows for dual frequency/polarisation diversity that compensates for any fading/multi-path effects and ensures low latency (typically 9-20mS). In suitable conditions, the bandwidth, range and data transfer speeds can be much greater than specified. The COMET system is simple, intuitive, and easy to set up and does not require the use of vulnerable and expensive satellites. It has been developed to be man-portable and the whole system can be established and operational within 15 minutes. The COMET system comes packed in two small cases (25kg each) that can be transported on civilian aircraft if required.

Michael Davies, Business Development Manager at Spectra Group said: “This is a continuation of what we hope to be many procurements under our Troposcatter global distribution agreement with Comtech. We have been working closely with the Irish Defence Force for some time to find suitable solutions to their strategic communications challenges and help meet their national defence commitments. With many NATO countries already operating Troposcatter systems, COMET is the perfect solution for its reliability, capacity, deployability and interoperability both on the land and for maritime vessels.”

spectra-group.co.uk

Posted in Comms, Contracts, Enforce Tac, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Rheinmetall Celebrates the Completion of the LAND 121 Program – Over 3,500 HX Trucks Delivered

Friday, February 21st, 2025

On 20 February 2025, Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Australia (RMMVA) celebrated the successful conclusion of the LAND 121 Phase 3B/5B program together with the Australian Department of Defence. The Final Acceptance ceremony took place at Rheinmetall’s Military Vehicles Center of Excellence (MILVEHCOE) in Queensland. The Australian Defence Force procured its fleet of logistics vehicles based on the proven HX truck as part of the LAND 121 project. Over 3500 vehicles were delivered on time and within budget. RMMVA is the largest supplier of military logistics vehicles for the Australian Army.

The Final Acceptance Ceremony marks the successful completion of a just over ten-year procurement program on time and on budget. A total of 3,580 medium and heavy military logistics trucks and 3,165 modules and protected cabs have been delivered. The Australian HX fleet includes recovery vehicle, transporter, self-loading hook-lift, fuel truck, tractor and tipper configurations. Testing and verification was carried out at the Australian Automotive Research Centre (AARC) near Anglesea, Victoria.

Michael Wittlinger, Chief of Staff of Rheinmetall AG and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Australia Pty Ltd.: “The HX truck is the workhorse of the Australian Army and provides the Australian Defence Force with outstanding capabilities. The entire workforce of Rheinmetall Defence Australia and Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Australia is grateful to have successfully completed the project together with the Commonwealth of Australia.”

“The first HX trucks procured under the LAND 121 Phase 3B/5B program entered service more than ten years ago. Since then, the HX truck has proven to be a mainstay for the Australian supply force.”

“These vehicles are the logistical backbone of the Australian Army, transporting troops, food, water and other equipment throughout Australia,” said Wittlinger.

“The HX trucks are built in the Austrian capital of Vienna by Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles. Final assembly of the Australian fleet was undertaken at Rheinmetall Defence Australia in south-east Queensland, and supported by our team members in Victoria and Queensland.”

With the procurement process complete, Rheinmetall is transitioning to support and sustain the HX fleet, utilising a national network of partners and suppliers.

“Our team of Field Service Representatives follow the members of the Australian Army with the HX trucks to all corners of Australia to ensure the reliability and serviceability of the vehicle fleet,” Mr Wittlinger said.

More than 20,000 RMMV HX trucks are in service with various NATO member and partner nations, providing crucial logistical capabilities and mobility for complex missions. Australia is part of an international HX user family that includes New Zealand, Germany, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Austria, Singapore and Canada.

The extremely robust HX trucks are military-off-the-shelf systems. They are powered by a six-cylinder in-line diesel engine. The maximum weight can be up to 41,000 kilograms. The vehicles can operate in temperatures ranging from -32° Celsius to +49° Celsius and can traverse water depths of more than 1.5 metres. Possible variants include: integrated and automated load handling system, swap body, crane, container carrier, recovery vehicle, tractor, tanker, tipper, system carrier and artillery system.

Posted in Contracts, International, Mobility, Press Release | No Comments »

Galvion Announces the Receipt of Middle Eastern Orders for 35,000 Helmets, at IDEX 2025

Monday, February 17th, 2025

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, is excited to announce the receipt of several recent orders from the Middle Eastern region for a total of 35,000 Baltskin® helmet systems. This announcement coincides with the IDEX exhibition taking place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, 17-21 February 2025. At the event, Galvion will be exhibiting at booth 14-C31.

The 35,000 head systems ordered are split between two of Galvion’s Batlskin® helmet platforms: the Baltskin VIPER® and Baltskin PDxT™ variants. Galvion’s PDxT geometry was recently introduced to their commercial helmet portfolio under the name Batlskin Hellbender™. Galvion is unable to disclose specific details related to all orders received, however a trusted regional partner of Galvion’s is amongst the most recent customers that has placed orders for over 100,000 helmets in the last 10 years for use by Armed Forces and security services in the region.

Galvion’s Batlskin VIPER® A1 Special Edition is a high-cut ACH shaped aramid helmet. The Special Edition system was specifically developed for a regional customer in coyote brown, with a custom camo helmet cover and a bespoke helmet bag. Elsewhere in the region, further orders were received for Galvion’s Batlskin PDxT™ helmet. The PDxT platform is battle-proven, with multiple variants in service across international helmet programs. The unique geometry features an ACH- front with smooth ear transition and a ridged back, offering structural rigidity, increased rear ballistic protection and improved impact protection. Both helmet systems on order feature Galvion’s customizable, comfort-fit Modular Suspension System (MSS). The MSS retention system is designed to maximize comfort, stability, air circulation, and protection during long periods of wear.

Alex Hooper, Vice President Strategic Markets at Galvion, said: “Galvion has a long history of supporting our Middle East customers, and we have developed a series of trusted partnerships in the region over many years. These most recent orders are a testament to our successful relationships in the area, and further evidence of Galvion’s global position as the head system provider of choice.” Hooper added: “We’re excited to be able to make this announcement at IDEX, where we are exhibiting the full breadth of our capabilities. This includes our portfolio of head systems, as well as our expanded Nerv Centr® power and data management solutions, which are ideally suited to remote and austere environments with low power availability. We see a significant opportunity for military clients in the region to benefit from our advanced, integrated soldier systems, and we look forward to further supporting our allied Armed Forces across the Middle East.”

Posted in Contracts, Helmets, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Barrett Firearms Secures MRAD Contract with Colombian National Army

Thursday, February 13th, 2025

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Inc., is proud to announce that the Colombian National Army has awarded the company its largest international military contract for the acquisition of the MRAD (Multi-Role Adaptive Design) sniper rifle and AM338suppressors. Deliveries of the systems are scheduled to begin in the summer of 2025.

The Colombia Contract MRAD rifle in OD Green paired with a Leupold Mark 5HD optic.

The contract includes MRAD rifles chambered in 7.62x51mm and .338 Lapua Magnum, paired with the AM338Suppressor and Leupold Mark 5HD optics. This adoption marks a pivotal step in the Colombian military’s efforts to standardize its precision rifle systems with a modular, multi-caliber, modern solution. Barrett’s MRAD rifles were selected following their proven success in special forces and army deployments worldwide, having earned a reputation for unparalleled performance and adaptability.

“We are deeply honored to have secured this new contract with our professional customers in Colombia,” said Cooper Thompson, Barrett’s Director of International Sales. “This collaboration is a monumental moment for us, as this contract sets our record for the largest single acquisition of MRAD systems from any international military end user to date. We look forward to reinforcing our already successful relationship with the Colombian military, and we anticipate overwhelming success and growth together.”

This milestone reflects Barrett’s ongoing commitment to supporting international defense forces and expanding its presence internationally. The adoption of the MRAD platform will enhance the Colombian National Army’s capabilities, providing state-of-the-art precision and modularity to meet the demands of modern military operations.

For more information, please visit www.barrett.net.

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, International, Press Release, weapons | No Comments »

VKTR Industries LLC Announces Delivery of New Rifles to the Blount County, TN Sheriff’s Department

Monday, February 10th, 2025

VKTR Industries, a manufacturer of premier piston driven AR-15 rifles and accessories, is proud to announce the selection and subsequent delivery of new VK-1 rifles to the Blount County, Tennessee Sheriff’s Department SWAT Team.

VKTR Industries VK-1 11.5 inch rifles, kitted with the VKTR Combat Match Bolt and HUXWRX Flow 556K suppressors were chosen to outfit the SWAT Team.

“We are extremely excited to support this customer.” said Eric Luley, the National Sales Manager for VKTR. “We have built out a great package for the crew and are proud to support them over the life of the program.”

Some of the benefits of the suppressed VK-1 system are:

Greatly reduced toxic blowback to the face, because of the patented piston system and HUXWRX suppressor. This will result in a safer overall product for officers.

Combat Match Bolt- tested for extreme durability and reduces wear rates overall.

Truly ambidextrous controls, allowing the officers to manipulate the rifle from either hand.

22.5 degree long advanced bolt carrier cam path which reduces muzzle rise and provides for easier follow up shots.

A cleaner, cooler system that is easier for the end user to clean and maintain.

Law Enforcement agencies and commercial customers are quickly learning the overall benefits of the VK-1 piston system and recognizing VK-1 difference.

Information on VKTR Industries rifles, dealer programs, or law enforcement sales can be found at www.VKTRind.com or email Eric Luley at eluley@vktrind.com.

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Extensive Follow-Up Procurement of IdZ-ES: Rheinmetall Receives Largest Framework Contract to Date for the Digitisation of Bundeswehr Infantry Forces – Soldier-Systems Worth Over €3bn

Friday, February 7th, 2025

Extensive follow-up procurement of IdZ-ES: Rheinmetall receives largest framework contract to date for the digitisation of Bundeswehr infantry forces – soldier-systems worth over €3bn

The Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) has signed a framework contract with Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH for the follow-on procurement of soldier-systems ‘Infantry Soldier of the Future – Enhanced System’ (IdZ-ES). The framework contract, with a maximum gross volume of €3.1bn, will run until the end of 2030. Overall, the Bundeswehr can thus initiate the proportional regeneration as well as the manufacturing and delivery of up to 368 IdZ-ES platoon systems and various options for the procurement of additional components and services. A platoon is a military sub-unit.

The contract involves, firstly, upgrading the 68 IdZ-ES platoon systems currently in use within the Bundeswehr to a digital standard and, secondly, the firm order of a further 24 platoon systems including extensive peripherals. The firm order, worth around €417m gross, will be booked in the first quarter of 2025.

Signed on 6 February 2025, the contract is the largest ever for both Rheinmetall and the BAAINBw for the procurement of soldier-systems. These play an increasingly important role as a networked element of combat operations on the digital battlefield of the future.

A platoon system mainly comprises 34 individual soldier-systems and a platoon equipment of peripheral components, consisting of advanced IT-equipment, optics, optronics, as well as military clothing, protection and carrying equipment. As the general contractor, Rheinmetall is responsible for the system and is coordinating the performance of more than 30 subcontractors.

With the framework contract, the Bundeswehr is procuring a modernised design of the IdZ-ES, based on the IdZ-ES VJTF 2023 soldier-system of the Mechanised Infantry system that is already in use. The new ‘VJTF 2023 obsolescence-adjusted’ design status eliminates all technically obsolete components and implements communication and data exchange capabilities with the Boxer armoured transport vehicle and Puma infantry fighting vehicle platforms, as well as preparing it for the airborne platform. The revised basic hardware of the soldier-systems is also designed to connect to the ‘Digitisation of Land-Based Operations’ (D-LBO) information and communication network.

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Nevada Department of Public Safety – Highway Patrol Division Selects KGM Suppressors R556A2 for Patrol Rifles

Friday, February 7th, 2025

For Immediate Release – February 6, 2025 – KGM Suppressors is proud to announce that the Nevada Department of Public Safety – Highway Patrol Division has selected the KGM R556A2 suppressor for deployment across its law enforcement divisions. This selection underscores KGM’s commitment to providing superior sound suppression, recoil mitigation, and operational efficiency to law enforcement professionals. The R556A2 was chosen after extensive evaluation and are currently being fielded across the state.

“We are honored to support the Nevada Highway Patrol by equipping their rifles with our suppressors,” said Bill Bracken, Director of Government Business Development at KGM Technologies. “The R556A2 provides a great mix of performance enhancements through sound, flash, and recoil reduction, with minimal impact to the host rifle. The use of suppressors on duty rifles is being recognized as a safety and performance enhancing tool to ensure officers can accomplish their mission safely and effectively.”

KGM Suppressors is a leading provider of advanced firearm suppressors for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications. Based in Peachtree Corners, Georgia, KGM Suppressors is committed to delivering superior performance, durability, and reliability in every product. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, KGM Suppressors continues to lead the way in the evolution of firearm suppressor technology. For more information, visit www.kgm-tech.com.

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Multi-Billion-Euro Contract: Rheinmetall Successful with TaWAN LBO for the Bundeswehr – Digitalisation of the Armed Forces Is Picking Up Speed

Thursday, February 6th, 2025

Rheinmetall has been awarded a contract in another important large-scale project for the Bundeswehr in the field of digitalisation. As the prime contractor, Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH will be responsible for setting up an integrated communication network, the so-called ‘Tactical Wide Area Network for Land Based Operations’ (TaWAN LBO). The volume of the awarded framework-contract for a deployable, platform-based communication/directional radio management system is worth several billion Euro.

The framework-contract for the procurement of TaWAN LBO has a term of 10 years and was signed by representatives of the Federal Office for the Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH.

At the same time, an initial order worth €1.88bn gross was placed under the framework-contract to equip a division of the Bundeswehr. Delivery of this communications network will take place between the end of 2026 and the end of 2029.

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “We are thankful for the great trust that the Bundeswehr is placing in us regarding its ambitious digitalization efforts. Now that the Bundeswehr will be receiving TaWAN LBO and D-LBO from a single source, the conditions for a synchronized coordination concerning the introduction of both systems are given. It is our ambition to provide the Bundeswehr with a seamless and reliable communication network within the given timeframe – one which can be considered a flagship of digitalisation in Germany”.

The core function of TaWAN LBO is to provide an open transport network for Federated Mission Networking (FMN) based on Protected Core Network (PCN) to connect the forward tactical D-LBO networks to the rear-echelon core network CIR. Following the contracts awarded at the end of 2024 as part of the Bundeswehr’s Digitalised Land-Based Operations (D-LBO) programme, TaWAN LBO will be a further milestone for the end-to-end command capabilities of the armed forces. In connection with D-LBO, the TaWAN LBO network is to ensure connectivity deep into the rear area at high data rates.

As part of the TaWAN LBO project, Rheinmetall is also supplying protected 8×8 HX trucks from Rheinmetall MAN, which serve as carrier vehicles for the large directional radio systems and are equipped with mobile high extendable antenna masts.

One of the vehicles will hold the mast system, another will carry the 20-foot functional container with workstations, servers and other equipment. Rheinmetall MAN will be delivering a total of 102 vehicles.

Other vehicle platforms are used in conjunction with smaller mobile extendable antenna masts (small directional radio system). A software-based directional radio management system is part of the overall solution which will ensure the functionality of the directional radio system, and can be used to plan and execute operations.

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