Tactical Tailor

Archive for the ‘EOD’ Category

A Quantum Leap in Force Protection – Rheinmetall Supplying Bundeswehr with Fuchs/Fox Armoured Transport Vehicles Configured for EOD Role

Friday, May 15th, 2020

Unexploded ordnance, mines and improvised explosive devices pose a grave threat to troops deployed in harm’s way. The German Bundeswehr is currently taking delivery of a newly developed high-performance system for countering these threats. Specially configured for an EOD role, this new variant of the Fuchs/Fox 1A8 armoured transport vehicle – known as the KAI – represents a quantum leap in the German military’s ability to detect and identify unexploded ordnance and similar battlefield hazards. Thanks to its high-performance electronics and a precise, multi-jointed, versatile manipulator arm featuring state-of-the-art sensors, Bundeswehr bomb disposal experts will now be able to reconnoitre, mark, expose and identify suspicious objects from a safe distance. Delivery of these serially produced systems is already underway, and slated to be complete in 2020. The order is worth a figure in the mid-double-digit million-euro range.

The Fuchs/Fox KAI reinforces the Bundeswehr’s array of heavy-duty EOD vehicles, and is designed to investigate vulnerable points which the Route Clearance System – partially supplied by Rheinmetall as well – cannot reach. Furthermore, the KAI is intended to serve as a stand-alone system capable of operating without the Route Clearance System in a convoy support role.

The carrier vehicle for the KAI is the latest iteration of the 1A8 version of this tried-and-tested armoured transport vehicle. Extremely well protected from mine and IED blasts, it is equipped with advanced force protection elements and mine-resistant seats that the keep the crew’s feet safely off the floor of the hull. The most prominent feature of the Fuchs/Fox KAI is the aforementioned multi-jointed, high-precision manipulator arm, with a maximum operating reach of over ten metres and a load-carrying capacity of 400 kg. This enables EOD personnel operating in the Fuchs/Fox fighting compartment to investigate suspicious locations and to examine and identify ordnance and booby traps with great precision from a safe standoff.

Besides the basic tool, the manipulator can accommodate two other tools. One of these is a dual sensor, the 80-centimetre variant employed by the Route Clearance System. It can be used for investigating suspicious spots and determining whether ordnance has been buried there. In addition, there is also a tool camera. Mounted on a tilt-and-pan head, this device can optically examine hard-to-view places such as drainage pipes, the sides and undersides of bridges or locations behind walls in order for example to detect the presence of an explosive device. To enable visual reconnaissance, the system features high-performance optronic technology. An optronic wiping-and-washing system makes it possible to quickly clean the reconnaissance camera during an ongoing operation. This significantly boosts the system’s tactical flexibility.

Other core elements of the KAI are its water-air spade system, with a maximum operating pressure of 400 bar, and a ripper chisel. This enables the EOD crew to uncover suspicious objects which cannot be clearly identified. Marking can be done digitally either in the system by means of exact GPS coordinates, or with an optical marking device for the dismounted bomb disposal engineer.

Moreover, the manipulator arm can be mounted with a recovery system for removing persons from a danger zone.

Rheinmetall is the German military’s partner of choice for combat engineering equipment. Other products in this segment include a share in the already mentioned Route Clearance System, the Dachs/Badger Armoured Engineering Vehicle 2, the Keiler armoured mine-clearing vehicle, and multiple variants of the Fuchs/Fox armoured transport vehicle.

Route Clearance System: Bundeswehr Awards Rheinmetall Supplementary Procurement Order for EOD Equipment

Wednesday, May 6th, 2020

Rheinmetall has been awarded a supplementary procurement order by the Bundeswehr to supply four Route Clearance Systems. The order is worth a figure in the lower two-digit million-euro range. Signed in December 2019, the contract is set to run for approximately four years.

Under the contract, Rheinmetall will be turning five Fuchs/Fox 1A8 wheeled armoured transport vehicles into operator team vehicles, and converting four Wiesel/Weasel 1 airmobile weapons carriers into tracked detector platforms. The scope of delivery also encompasses seven reserve dual sensors with transport and storage racks, together with logistical support. The dual sensor, a key component of the Route Clearance System, is a new version purged of obsolescent elements.

It was in 2011 that Rheinmetall first supplied the Bundes¬wehr with seven Route Clearance Systems as part of the Heavy Explosives and Ordnance Demolition Platoon. A complete system consists of five vehicles configured for the following tasks: detection and clearance of landmines and improvised explosive devices, command, and transport.

The remotely controlled Wiesel/Weasel features a newly developed, integrated dual sensor with ground-penetrating radar as well as a metal detector. Its task in the so called DEU Route Clearance System is to detect landmines and IEDs on sections of road as well as in off-road terrain.

Equipped with operator consoles for controlling the vehicles and systems for evaluating the dual sensor signals, the Fuchs/Fox 1A8 armoured transport vehicle serves as a mobile, highly protected command post.

Ordered separately, the ordnance verification vehicle is tasked with remotely controlled inspection of suspicious objects. An integrated video system lets operators onboard the Fuchs/Fox command vehicle monitor the situation on the ground at all times.

The vehicles of the DEU Route Clearance System are transported using Multi FSA trucks made by Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV).

Sneak Peek – Next Generation Advanced Bomb Suit

Friday, March 20th, 2020

PEO-Soldier posted an early prototype photo of the Next Generation Advanced Bomb Suit (NGABS). The Army is working Med Eng on the suit.

Next-Generation Bomb Suit Lightens Load for Marines

Wednesday, October 23rd, 2019

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. —
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Marines will soon receive a lighter and more capable bomb suit for protection against various threats.

Fielding in 2020, the EOD Advanced Bomb Suit incorporates several 21st century, next-generation technological advancements intended to help EOD Marines withstand arduous conditions on the battlefield.

The system protects against severe injuries caused by blast overpressure, shrapnel, heat and impacts. The suit also comprises an elaborate integrated ventilation system to reduce heat stress and improve breathing.

“The new EOD bomb suit provides the warfighter with additional protection and flexibility,” said Fernando Pena, Marine Corps Systems Command’s project officer for the suit. “It is a superior suit compared with the previous system.”

In 2014, the Corps fielded an innovative bomb suit that has provided protection to the warfighter. However, because threats are ever-evolving, the need to find new ways to safeguard EOD Marines is paramount in carrying out missions and defeating adversaries.

Master Sgt. Zachariah Kindvall, an MCSC subject matter expert for the EOD bomb suit, says the new system helps meet the warfighter’s ever-changing needs.

“The new EOD bomb suit will add another level of personal protection equipment for Marines to use,” said Kindvall. “It provides a higher level of protection than what we currently have.”

The EOD suit meets or exceeds the performance and characteristics of the legacy system. For example, the newer system has a more ergonomic design, offers superior overall balanced protection, and provides greater situational awareness and operational capabilities, said Pena.

Kindvall noted how the suit offers more comfort, reducing the risk of fatigue. He said engineers emphasized the design and fitting of the suit, making it easier for the warfighter to maneuver. The clothing is also easier to don and doff compared with the previous system.

“The foot protection, in particular, is much easier to walk in and provides much more comfort and protection,” said Kindvall.

Additionally, the suit is significantly lighter than its older counterpart—a characteristic of the system Kindvall says can help Marines. Lightening the warfighter’s load is important because too much gear can wear on the warfighter. The new bomb suit reduces weight while also enhancing protection and communication.

“Lightening the load gives Marines more flexibility during missions—even if it is just a reduction of a few pounds,” said Kindvall. “That weight reduction can be significant.”

Both Pena and Kindvall are confident the system will be advantageous on the battlefield. As Pena explained, the warfighter can investigate and perform render-safe procedures involving an improvised explosive device knowing the suit’s added stability can protect them from serious impact and other hazards.

“We as a program office must be proactive in understanding the dynamic changes of today’s threats as well as future threats,” said Pena. “The new EOD bomb suit helps to support this idea.”

By Matt Gonzales, MCSC Office of Public Affairs and Communication | Marine Corps Systems Command






DSEI 19 – Saratoga Fragment Protective Armour-Up for Light EOD/CBRN

Friday, September 13th, 2019

Germany’s Bluecher Saratoga is well known for their CBRN suits but they have also developed ballistic under garments.

Based on this work, they’ve created a lightweight vest and apron for EOD use when a full bombsuit isn’t warranted and frag is the primary concern such as dispersion devices. The ensemble weighs less than 6 kg and meets STANAG 2920 (1.1 g FSP) with V50 velocities up to 450 m/s.






DSEI 2019: General Robotics Ltd. Showcases the Next Generation of the Pitbull-3 Anti-Drone Remote Weapon Station and the DOGO – Anti-Terror & Crime Robot

Wednesday, September 4th, 2019

The systems come with a new faster and more accurate Point & Shoot technology, and are already operational

DSEI 2019, September 10-13, London, Israel Pavilion, Stand S5-220

2 September 2019. General Robotics Ltd., – a company specializing in developing, manufacturing and marketing advanced robotic systems for defense and homeland security applications – will reveal, for the first time at DSEI 2019, the new anti-drone remote controlled weapon station with its latest features.

The Pitbull-3 is an ultra-lightweight RCWS that delivers Point & Shoot technology, is highly accurate and highly reliable, and provides an ideal solution for detecting and tracking all types of drones during flight, enabling their neutralization and downing.

Weighing only 70 kg, the Pitbull-3 anti-drone station provides a complete solution in one compact and mobile system that can be easily installed on any manned or unmanned ground, air or maritime platform, including ultralight vehicles such as ATVs, and fixed stations.

“While hard-kill solutions are inevitably needed to stop advanced drones and drone swarms, there is a strong focus on soft-kill capabilities. Pitbull-3 enables both.” says Shahar Gal, CEO of General Robotics Ltd.

The system’s complete solution against drones enables three key courses of action to be taken:

•       Detection of drones by different kinds of radar integrated within the system, with a drone detection range of up to 5 km.

•       A soft-kill via an integrated jammer which can induce simultaneous disruption of all drones’ communication frequencies – command, video and GPS – thereby forcing the drone to stop, land or return to base.

•         A hard-kill whereby an advanced prediction algorithm enables moving drones to be shot down from 500 meters, and hovering drones from 800 meters.

In addition to Pitbull, at DSEI, the company will also present the new, DOGO Mark II anti-terror robot with its latest capabilities, which include faster Point & Shoot™ interface, enabling accurate designation of lethal or non-lethal means simply by clicking on the screen; non-lethal pepper spray and non-lethal dazzling light module attachments; and front extenders, for overcoming various obstacles.

Weighing just 11 kg, DOGO is in use by special forces, SWAT teams and infantry around the world. Standard pistols can be quickly attached to the robot and easily operated via Point & Shoot™ technology. DOGO can also be integrated with non-lethal modules. The robot includes eight video cameras that provide 360° live video and boresight views and can communicate in hostage situations. The DOGO is being sent into fatal funnels to provide situational awareness and remote engagement capabilities to increase the survivability of the fighting forces.

www.glrobotics.com






TacJobs – MED-ENG Seeks Sales Manager In DC Metro Area

Tuesday, April 2nd, 2019

Sales Manager, US Regular Full Time, DC Metro Area

Med-Eng* products are trusted in over 100 countries worldwide.   It offers the leading brand of Explosive Ordnance Disposal protective equipment, including suits and helmets for EOD, bomb disposal and tactical teams. In addition to its bomb disposal equipment, its product line includes a vast array of specialized tools for unexploded ordnance, high risk search and demining operations. Med-Eng crew survivability blast attenuation seats and thermal management’s solutions protect military vehicle occupants and their mission critical electronics from the blast effects of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and heat stress. 

Med-Eng is world-renowned for its aggressive Research & Development programs and collaborative approach to meeting customer requirements. 

Currently, Med-Eng has a challenging opportunity for a Sales Manager, working from home office in the DC Metro Area.

Summary:  

The successful candidate is responsible for meeting sales revenue targets within assigned market. Identifies and successfully secures sales opportunities in designated markets, regions or territories. In addition to promoting Med-Eng’s products (ROV) to clients, the incumbent is responsible for developing strategies to penetrate new markets/accounts, conduct account planning and maintain major account plans to maximize revenue from existing customers. Regularly monitor’s team progress against sales targets and develops new strategies/sales plans to ensure target achievement. Participates in the identification of new product ideas, interacts with Med-Eng’s agents and corporate business partners and provides post-sales support to end users of Med-Eng’s products and services.

Duties & Responsibilities:  

Working within assigned territory, key objectives will include: 

• Developing a detailed understanding of products, sales objectives and strategies, pricing and delivery policies and practices;

• Understanding the prospects’ and customers’ critical issues and initiatives and linking solutions to ensure achievement in these key areas;

• Developing and implementing effective sales plans to generate revenues for Med-Eng standard products within assigned geographic territory;

• Conducts presentations and training demonstrations for Med-Eng products within sales territory;

• Maintains existing customer contacts, and initiates and establishes new contacts within specified territory;

• Establishing and maintaining high-level, executive contact with accounts, focusing on the establishment and maintenance of strategic relationships;

• Qualifying prospects according to Med-Eng capabilities and applicability. Managing the execution of the sales process and leveraging appropriate resources to secure sales; 

• Assuming ownership of presentations, proposals and other documents including RFP and RFI responses; 

• Providing accurate sales forecasts based upon realistic close timelines; 

• Communicating product improvements and recommendations that originate in the field; 

• Utilizing automated forecasting tool and CRM to track all opportunities and prospect/customer related information;

• Provides functional and technical guidance and leadership to distributors and end users.

Qualifications

• Five (5) years proven experience selling protective products and services into the first responder/defense industry;

• Experience in the ROV Market;

• Previous relevant experience in law enforcement/first responder community an asset;

• Aggressive, highly motivated hunter with a solid sales track record;

• Proven experience closing sales;

• Familiarity with state and local procurement practices and funding sources (grants);

• Ability to penetrate and sell to government decision makers;

• Must be an articulate, persuasive and passionate communicator;

• Ability to travel up to 50% of the time.

Please apply by submitting your resume to med-engcareers@safariland.com

Med-Eng is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and the principles of employment equity and affirmative action.






Rogan USA – REX EOD (Rescue. Escape. Xtract) Knife

Wednesday, February 13th, 2019

Designed after discussions with Canadian Combat Engineers and USMC EOD Specialists, the REX EOD (Rescue. Escape. Xtract) is a breaching/digging tool. It is manufactured from carbon steel and 9.25″ in length. It features a welded handguard and is available with five different handle wraps.

Interestingly, it is PALS compatible and will slide in the webbing channels due to its one inch width, keeping it handy.

www.roganusa.com