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USSOCOM Awards Contract to Final Forge for Rotary Wing Advanced Tactical Helmets

Sunday, October 1st, 2023

Last week USSOCOM awarded an IDIQ contract to Final Forge for the Rotary Wing Advanced Tactical Helmets we wrote about awhile back which were adopted by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment ‘Night Stalkers.’

Final Forge, Blountville, Tennessee, has been awarded an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (H92403-23-D-0004) with a maximum ceiling of $49,000,000 and a $5,000 minimum ordering guarantee for a new generation of rotary wing advanced tactical helmets with spare parts and accessories. The helmets provide operationally relevant characteristics and performance including but not limited to excellent comfort, stability, field of view, and head mobility. This contract will fulfill the full operational capability requirements for all U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) rotary wing aviation components. Fiscal 2023 procurement funds in the amount of $874,970 are being obligated at time of award on the first delivery order. This contract is a follow-on production contract stemming from a competitive prototype agreement and is being awarded in accordance with10 U.S. Code 4022(f). USSOCOM, MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, is the contracting activity.

The RATH was developed and is manufactured by Final Forge, a company founded by David Rogers who coincidentally also founded Ops-Core before selling it to Gentex in 2012.

Posted in Aviation, Contracts, Helmets, SOF | 4 Comments »

USSOCOM Awards Geissele Automatics $29 Million for Mid Range Gas Gun – Sniper

Saturday, September 30th, 2023

This week, USSOCOM finally issued a contract for the Mid Range Gas Gun – Sniper or MRGG-S (pronounced Margie-Ess at SOCOM), a 6.5 Creedmoor gas gun. However, the barrel is user swappable to 7.62mm as per the requirement.

This photo was taken during SOF Week. The program of record rifle features everything you see here except the optic as SOCOM has several optics initiatives under way.

Below is the DoD contract announcement:

Geissele Automatics, North Wales, Pennsylvania, has been awarded an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (H92403-23-D-0003) with a 10-year ordering period and a maximum ceiling of $29,263,029 to procure a new sniper support weapon, designated marksman, rifle taking advantage of advances in ammunition and weapons technology to improve the intermediate range sniper rifle lethality, reliability and performance when suppressed during 50-1,500 meter engagements. This effort will also provide for complete sustainment over the life cycle of the weapon system, including associated spare parts and vendor support, new equipment training, engineering, and travel. Fiscal 2023 procurement funds in the amount of $4,240,133 are being obligated at time of award on the first delivery order. This contract is a follow-on production contract stemming from a competitive prototype agreement and is being awarded in accordance with 10 U.S. Code 4022(f). U.S. Special Operations Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, is the contracting activity.

Although listed on Geissele’s website, the gun is not in stock.

The commercial variant features a 20″ cold hammer forged from CRMOV steel and chrome lined barrel. The barrel is interchangeable between 6.5 Creedmoor and 7.62×51 mm NATO at the user level. The full features are available at the Geissele site.

There is still a program afoot to adopt an Assaulter version of MRGG. It features a shorter barrel and different stock as well as full-auto fire.

Posted in Contracts, SOF, weapons | 33 Comments »

Special Forces of the German Armed Forces to use Vector reconnaissance drones from Quantum Systems in the future

Thursday, September 28th, 2023

German drone manufacturer from Munich wins “FALKE” tender from the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw)

Germany, Munich, September 27, 2023 – Quantum-Systems GmbH, Munich-based manufacturer of dual-use reconnaissance drones that use multi-sensor technology to collect data for government agencies and commercial users, yesterday signed a framework agreement with the BAAINBw for the delivery of Vector reconnaissance drones.

Delivery of 14 unmanned aerial systems begins at the end of 2024

In November 2022, the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) published the project under the name “Framework contract for the procurement of remotely piloted reconnaissance systems, airborne, short range” – “FALKE” for short. The complex performance specifications of the competitive award procedure placed numerous requirements on the future supplier of the unmanned systems. Quantum Systems successfully submitted a bid and was able to conclude the framework agreement with the BAAINBw on September 26, 2023.

Delivery of the first 14 systems is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2024. In the future, the Bundeswehr will thus have a system for precise reconnaissance that can be deployed quickly and independently.

Requirements for availability, innovation capability and precise reconnaissance methods

The vertical take-off and landing capable drone type Vector provides the German Army’s special forces with a market-available tactical reconnaissance system optimized for their range of operations and meeting requirements in terms of range, flight time and sensor capability. Vector enables precise reconnaissance over a range of up to 30 km with a flight duration of up to three hours. The integrated ‘Raptor’ combi-sensor is equipped with an optical and an infrared camera, enabling day and night operations in all climates and under challenging environmental conditions.

For the operational tasks of the Army’s special forces, precise reconnaissance is a mandatory requirement.

Posted in Contracts, Press Release, SOF, UAS | Comments Off on Special Forces of the German Armed Forces to use Vector reconnaissance drones from Quantum Systems in the future

KONGSBERG Awarded NOK 1 Billion CROWS Order

Tuesday, September 26th, 2023

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace AS (KONGSBERG) has received an order from the US Army to deliver an additional 409 CROWS remote weapon stations, spares and support. The order has a value of USD 94 million or approximately NOK 1 billion.

The order is part of the IDIQ* frame contract awarded in October 2022, the fourth consecutive five-year contract awarded KONGSBERG for the delivery and support of the US Army Commonly Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS).

“We are very pleased for the opportunity to deliver additional CROWS systems to the US Army and with the confidence our customers place in our products and our organization,” says Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

The deliveries will be manufactured and assembled at the KONGSBERG facility in Johnstown PA.

Over the past 25 years, KONGSBERG has delivered more than 22,000 Remote Weapon Systems to customers in more than 28 different nations.

*indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity

Posted in Contracts, International, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on KONGSBERG Awarded NOK 1 Billion CROWS Order

Tardigrade.Industries Wins Contract to Develop Cutting-Edge Ballistic Resistant Eyewear from the US Department of Defense

Monday, September 25th, 2023

[Skowhegan, ME, 05/20/23] — Tardigrade Industries, a leading innovator in advanced protective solutions, is proud to announce its success in winning a contract to design and manufacture state-of-the-art projectile and bullet resistant eyewear. This significant achievement further solidifies Tardigrade’s position as the innovator in the industry, dedicated to enhancing the safety and protection of those serving in high-risk professions.

The contract, awarded by the Irregular Warfare Technical Support Directorate (IWTSD), under the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict (ASD(SO/LIC), signifies a significant milestone for Tardigrade Industries in its pursuit of delivering unparalleled quality and innovation to protect today’s warfighters and peacekeepers against the ever-evolving threats around them. Tardigrade’s expertise in protective equipment and technologies, combined with its commitment to rigorous research and development, has resulted in a breakthrough product that sets new benchmarks in armored ballistic eyewear. The IWTSD contract will fund its development of ballistic eyewear capable of stopping substantially higher threats than current standards, and set the standard for all future military eyewear.

Designed to withstand the most demanding environments, Tardigrade’s offering offers exceptional protection against ballistic threats, including projectiles, fragments, and other potential hazards, as well as offering scratch and fog resistance for all operations. The cutting-edge materials and advanced manufacturing processes employed by Tardigrade ensure the highest levels of performance, durability, and wearer comfort, without compromising on style while enhancing visual clarity over previous materials.

As a company at the forefront of innovation, Tardigrade Industries remains committed to pushing boundaries, investing in research and development, and collaborating with industry partners to advance the field of protective eyewear. Through this contract win, Tardigrade is set to revolutionize the way soldiers approach safety in high-risk environments, offering them peace of mind and enhanced performance.

About Tardigrade Industries: Tardigrade Industries is a leading provider of advanced protective solutions, committed to delivering industry-leading products that ensure the safety and well-being of professionals operating in high-risk environments. With an unwavering focus on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, Tardigrade continues to set new standards in protective technologies in the Tactical and Military world.

Posted in Contracts, Eyepro, Press Release | Comments Off on Tardigrade.Industries Wins Contract to Develop Cutting-Edge Ballistic Resistant Eyewear from the US Department of Defense

Army Announces Terrestrial Layer System – Brigade Combat Team (TLS BCT) Manpack Prototype OTA Agreement

Wednesday, September 20th, 2023

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, MD – After more than six months of competitive white papers and technical evaluations for the Terrestrial Layer System – Brigade Combat Team (TLS BCT) Manpack, the U.S. Army entered into an Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreement through the Consortium for Command, Control, and Communications in Cyberspace (C5) with Mastodon Design, LLC to support Phase 1 – Prototype Build and Demonstration. The agreement totals $1,521,490 for a 9-month Period of Performance.

The TLS BCT Manpack system will be a tailorable, modular, terrestrial capability that allows the integration of Signals Intelligence and Electromagnetic Warfare collection, processing, exploitation, reporting, and effects capabilities for SIGINT Collection Team and Electromagnetic Warfare Team elements. TLS BCT Manpack will provide the Brigade Combat Team commander a tactical advantage with agility and improved intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting in Multi-Domain Operations.

“The TLS BCT Manpack compliments the TLS BCT and TLS Echelons Above Brigade (TLS EAB) family of systems with a shared and open systems approach that creates the flexibility and efficiencies needed against a highly adaptive threat,” said Kenneth Strayer, Project Manager, Electronic Warfare and Cyber (PM EW&C). PM EW&C plans to transition the TLS BCT Manpack from prototyping to production in FY2024.

Posted in Army, CEMA, Contracts, EW, Guest Post | Comments Off on Army Announces Terrestrial Layer System – Brigade Combat Team (TLS BCT) Manpack Prototype OTA Agreement

Saab Secures U.S. AT4 and Carl-Gustaf Ammunition Order

Tuesday, September 19th, 2023

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has expanded a current framework agreement with Saab for AT4 systems and Carl-Gustaf® ammunition. A new order has also been signed valued at USD 104.9 million with deliveries during 2024-2026.

The Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) framework agreement was originally signed in 2019. The extension will allow the U.S. customer to place orders of Saab’s world-leading close combat solutions for up to an additional USD 422 million.

The new order within the framework agreement includes AT4CS RS systems and the latest high explosive round for Carl-Gustaf Weapon System, HE 448, designated as HE 441E in the U.S. This latest order will support the U.S. Army, U.S. Special Operations Command and the U.S. Marine Corps.

“Saab’s shoulder-launched weapons and munitions are unmatched for their effectiveness against a wide range of tactical targets and dramatically improve the survivability of warfighters,” said Erik Smith, President and CEO of Saab in the U.S. “The DoD’s expanded commitment to our close combat solutions validates Saab’s focus on delivering innovative, advanced products that can evolve to meet the long-term needs of our partners. We’re incredibly proud that the U.S. Armed Forces has extended our partnership for close combat systems, which will now exceed four decades and endure for years to come.”

“We are proud that our combat solutions are making a difference for our customers. The expansion of the framework agreement further strengthens our position as a trusted U.S. partner and ensures the armed forces can use AT4CS RS and Carl-Gustaf for years to come,” says Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s business area Dynamics.

The AT4CS RS is a man-portable and fully disposable anti-armor system that provides the U.S. Armed Forces with a proven, flexible Shoulder-Launched Munition (SLM). Beginning with the U.S. Army in 1985, Saab has delivered more than 700,000 AT4 systems in the U.S. Fifteen countries around the world currently deploy the AT4CS RS and or its variants.

The Carl-Gustaf recoilless rifle is a Multi-purpose Anti-armor Anti-personnel Weapon System (MAAWS) that offers warfighters a highly flexible, single-weapon system for any combat situation on the modern battlefield. The Carl-Gustaf M4 is compatible with advanced fire control devices and specialized ammunition, such as the HE 448 (designated as HE 441E in the U.S), which provides increased efficiency and greater accuracy. The multi-role fuse on HE 448 (designated as HE 441E in the U.S) can be used in impact mode to destroy soft-skinned vehicles and other semi-hardened targets, or in airburst mode to allow neutralization of infantry in the open or in open trenches.

Saab is a leading defence and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 20,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer, more sustainable and more equitable world. Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defence capability of several nations.

Posted in Contracts, Munitions, Press Release | Comments Off on Saab Secures U.S. AT4 and Carl-Gustaf Ammunition Order

Army Marksmanship Unit Seeks Match Grade 6.8 Ammo

Monday, September 18th, 2023

The Army Marksmanship has issued a RFQ to industry for 6.8mm match grade ammo.

They are seeking ammunition with the following attributes:

Brand Name or Equal, to the following:
LI 001: Cartridge 6.8 Next Gen 135 -150 gr Hybrid, 5500, EA;

1a. BULLET: .277 dia. 135gr Sierra Match King OTM item or .277 dia 140gr Classic Hybrid Hunter Berger Bullet. End user will accept projectiles not listed if precision dispersion is better than specific projectiles/bullets listed. If an optional projectile is proposed the optional projectile cannot weigh more than 150gr.

1b. Brass: Hybrid steel/brass 6.8x51mm, hardness must meet mil specs.

1c. PRIMER: prefer factory best available primer option Mil spec or match quality.

1d. POWDER: vendor best option any propellant that meets safe reliable function of ammunition. Powder should be temp stabilized for lowest possible velocity spread between 0-125F. Example of acceptable stabilized propellant velocity spread: 70F Avg MV= 2600fps 30rds, 125F Avg MV= 2640fps 30rds. (30rds straight or 3 separate 10rd tests at each temp range is acceptable).

1e. CARTRIDGE LENGTH: Max 2.82 OAL intent is Magazine length for SIG 6.8×51 semi auto rifles.

1f. MUZZLE VELOCITY: ammunition must produce a velocity sufficient to provide Sub MOA accuracy from 16″ Bolt Action barrels & 1.15 MOA or less from semi auto barrels and maintain low SD of MV. Standard deviation of MV should be 13 fps +or- 1 fps (or less) for avg of 30 rds tested at 70F. Actual muzzle velocity shall be a mild velocity ammunition not to exceed 64 KSI from PSI test barrels at Hot temp ranges. 70F degree test barrel & ammunition should produce an avg of 58-59 KSI. End user not specifying specific muzzle velocity.

1g. Ammunition lot size shall be no less than 20,000 rds, no more than 40,0000 rds from the same production run.

1h. A lot consists of the same lot of bullets, primers, brass, and propellant.

1i. PSI at 70 Deg F should not exceed 60,000 PSI casemouth or Conformal- manufacturer option.

1j. PSI at 130 Deg F should not exceed 64,000 PSI casemouth or Conformal- manufacturer option.

1k. ACCURACY STANDARDS- Rifle 16” barrel: Ammunition must average less than 2.6” inches ES Threshold, 2.25 ES or less Objective at 300 yards when fired from 1 ea USAMU Bolt Action Test Barrel. 5 each 5 rd groups. ( conditions will be 2mph or less winds if outdoors )

This ammunition purchase follows a previous solicitation from the AMU for a dozen MCX-SPEAR rifles in May so it appears that AMU is gearing up to use the SPEAR in service rifle competitions.

Posted in Ammo, Army, Contracts | 3 Comments »