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FirstSpear Friday Focus: ECH High Cut Helmet Cover

Friday, August 2nd, 2024

• Made in USA
• 100% Berry Compliant
• 550 Cord Loop for cable management or foliage attachment
• Solid Stretch
• Fits ECH High-Cut Ops Core Helmets
• IFF Loop sides and Battery Pack/ Counterweight loop on rear

We’re proud to announce the launch of its latest helmet cover, the Enhanced Combat Helmet (ECH) Cover. Designed to meet the demanding needs of end users in the field.

The FirstSpear ECH Helmet Cover is crafted with state-of-the-art materials, providing superior durability and performance. Individually sized and 100? fit tested the FirstSpear Helmet Cover is designed to fit the Ops Core ECH High-Cut Helmet.

A stretch fit ensures that it remains in place during Free Fall or Rotary Wing Operations and key areas of the cover have been manufactured to allow access to night vision mounts and rail accessories. The 550 cord tie down loops are positioned in other locations for attachment of foliage or jute or cable management.

Perfect for changing your helmet’s pattern, preserving its finish and dampening noise during impact, this cover is available as an all solid stretch. It is available in coyote in small, medium, large and extra large.

The FirstSpear ECH Helmet Cover is now available for purchase through authorized FirstSpear dealers. For more information about this product and other innovative tactical solutions, visit www.first-spear.com or contact sales@first-spear.com.

Posted in Advertiser, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post, Helmets | Comments Off on FirstSpear Friday Focus: ECH High Cut Helmet Cover

Army Shares Organic Industrial Base Modernization Plan on Capitol Hill

Friday, August 2nd, 2024

WASHINGTON — The Army had an opportunity to share its story of Organic Industrial Base modernization with members of Congress at its annual Army House Depot Caucus Reception on Capitol Hill, July 23, 2024.

“Thank you for your early investment and continued support of the Army’s OIB,” Lt. Gen. Chris Mohan, Army Materiel Command deputy commanding general and acting commander, told members and staff in attendance. “With Congress’ support, we have embarked on a 15 year multi-billion-dollar investment to strengthen the nation’s industrial base, generating readiness and operational capabilities.”

At the start of fiscal year 2024, the OIB officially entered the 15-year Modernization Implementation Plan, focused on five lines of effort- facilities and infrastructure; tolling and processes; workforce; network and cyber; and energy and environmental.

“Right now, at our depots, arsenals and ammo plants, you will see a lot of emphasis on infrastructure, roads, electrics and water projects,” said Mohan. “Once we bring those up to standard, we will begin moving inward, including not only implementing cutting-edge technology like advanced manufacturing but also upgrading our communications infrastructure and cyber resiliency.”

Some modernization projects started early due to additional funding the Army received connected to ammunition production, including efforts to accelerate 155mm production.

Mohan stressed to the attendees that the OIB is more than the 23 sites around the county; it has expeditionary capabilities, with at any time between 600-1,000 artisans in more than 30 countries around the world.

“They are at the tip of the spear, in places like Poland providing the essential support needed on the front lines,” said Mohan. “Your OIB workforce is making a difference, not only in your districts but around the world.”

Recognizing the powerful role that OIB artisans play in generating readiness, a key piece to the modernization plan is an OIB Human Capital Modernization Implementation Plan, which will ensure the Army is hiring, training and developing the workforce to support the 21st century OIB.

By Megan Gully

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Joint Counter-Small UAS Office Conducts Successful Counter Drone-Swarm Demonstration

Wednesday, July 31st, 2024

WASHINGTON — The Army held its most challenging counter-small unmanned aircraft systems test to date, paving the way for Soldiers to field capabilities against small-UAS attacks in the future.

During the Joint Counter-Small Unmanned Systems Office’s (JCO) fifth C-sUAS demonstration, held at Yuma Proving Ground June 3-28, 2024, testers launched more than 40 UAS targets that converged on a defended area in each session. The tests helped the JCO evaluate the command-and-control capabilities of nine C-sUAS systems, observing how each sensed and identified different types of UAS threats.

“It was a very successful demonstration in informing U.S. [forces] and our allies what capabilities exist out there for this very challenging profile,” said Col. Michael Parent, JCO Acquisition Division chief.

“You don’t want to obviously engage the target multiple times,” Parent added. “You’ve got so many [UAS] coming at you, you have to be able to differentiate and have the most promising threat first.”

The demonstration presented a wide array of threats that swarmed the C-sUAS systems in mass and in waves, showcasing both kinetic and non-kinetic defeat solutions. Experiments tested capabilities that included guided rockets, kinetic interceptor drones, electro-optical/infrared cameras, radio frequency scanners and radio frequency jammers.

Demonstration threat profiles used rotary wing, fixed wing and slow-moving, and propeller-powered UAS threats. The JCO chose the nine systems from eight vendors pulled out of a pool of 58 vendor proposals.

Small unmanned aircraft systems pose a significant threat to Army and U.S. military operations and are also a particularly dangerous threat in Ukraine and parts of Israel. Drones provide low-cost capability to transport ammunition for targeted attacks and can collect reconnaissance for enemy forces and coordinate attacks.

To combat that threat, former Defense Secretary Mark Esper designated the Army as the executive agent for C-sUAS defense in 2019.

Parent said that the JCO will look to begin prototyping specific C-sUAS proposals in 2025 based on specific capabilities and the needs of combatant commanders. The JCO scheduled its next C-sUAS demonstration between the second and third quarters of fiscal year 2025.

According to Parent, compared to the previous four demonstrations held from 2021 to 2023, the vendors’ systems showed greater speed and recognition of threats.

The test marked the first demonstration the service has held in nearly 12 months.

“The challenge of the profile really meant that no one characteristic, no one capability, whether kinetic or non-kinetic, in itself could really defeat this kind of a profile,” stated Parent. “So what we saw was that you really do need a full system-of-systems approach, a layered approach, because we’re talking about a very large profile, 50 or more [threats] … coming out from different angles, different speeds and different sizes.”

As the JCO is currently evaluating the test results, Parent refrained from commenting on the effectiveness of each vendor’s systems or specific performance data. Of the eight vendors, the JCO chose two proposals from Maryland-based ELTA North America; a vehicle-mounted solution and a platoon transport solution.

The results of the testing will be collected and sent to U.S. combatant commands and the vendors at the end of July, Parent said.

Additionally, the JCO will coordinate with joint partners to identify the priority focus areas of UAS systems.

By Joe Lacdan

Posted in Army, Guest Post, UAS | Comments Off on Joint Counter-Small UAS Office Conducts Successful Counter Drone-Swarm Demonstration

Tactical Tuesday: Coming Soon!

Tuesday, July 30th, 2024

Vertx is about to drop a major visual upgrade that’ll make your favorite go-to packs even more badass. Stay tuned, this is the upgrade you’ve been waiting for, and it’s coming in hot.

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Commander of U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command Speaks on the Future of Space Ops

Tuesday, July 30th, 2024

ARLINGTON, Va. — The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command’s leader said the command has the lead role in the Army’s Space Vision supporting multidomain operations and defending the United States.

Lt. Gen. Sean A. Gainey, USASMDC commanding general, spoke at a Coffee Series event hosted by the Association of the U.S. Army at AUSA’s headquarters, July 23, 2024, in Arlington.

“Right now, based off of where the Army has moved in some of our demand requirements, we feel we are on path to meet our modernization goals,” Gainey said. “Depending on how we move forward potentially impacts modernization. As of right now, we’re moving on the right path. There are no issues at this time progressing forward with the force structure plan that we have and the growth that we have in place.”

He discussed the command’s initiatives to lead a proof-of-concept demonstration for using C-UAS in the homeland to help U.S. Northern Command determine how to move forward with C-UAS capabilities across the continental United States.

“Warfare is changing drones and all the capabilities that they may need,” Gainey said. “We do our own internal science and technology work so we’re able to do the gap analysis across the space and missile defense portfolio through our (Space and Missile Defense) Center of Excellence. Then our Center of Excellence is able to walk down and document to our technical center from an [science and technology] perspective.

“They can go out and work closely with industry and see what’s out there to help get after some of the challenges that we have moving forward,” he added. “We’re having to leverage more capability for a mission set with our modernization. We’re building based off knowing that there’s a 360-degree threat.”

Gainey said everybody is involved in space and has to be prepared to fight in a degraded denied environment and be able to leverage space.

“We at SMDC developed an Army Space Training Strategy that essentially focuses on how do you get space capability and space awareness, all the way down to the tactical level,” Gainey said. “We leverage that with our space experts inside of formations in our divisions. We are essentially building it inside of the schoolhouse and initial training, always through the training pipeline, and integrating space as part of awareness.”

Gainey talked about the future space operations military occupational specialty and how it will benefit the Army and its future space branch.

“You have an initiative on the space MOS,” Gainey said. “A lot of great work by the leaders in vision that came before me seeing that we can no longer continue to do business as usual in the way we operate right now as we pull Soldiers from air defense.

“We will change those Soldiers to 40 delta MOS to where now they’re space Soldiers and they’re experts,” he added. “So they get basic training all the way up, and then you get a professional noncommissioned officer, which we’re really excited about. We believe this is a stepping stone to a space branch.”

By Jason Cutshaw, USASMDC

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Profession of Arms, Space | Comments Off on Commander of U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command Speaks on the Future of Space Ops

MATBOCK Monday: 40MM Sight

Monday, July 29th, 2024

The Aquire Read Deploy (ARD) weapon sight, a state-of-the-art device designed and manufactured in the USA to elevate your accuracy and efficiency in the field.

Crafted from durable anodized aluminum, the ARD sight is versatile, mountable on either side or top rails, and built to withstand the rigors of combat. Its standout feature is the digital LCD screen, which displays the range of 40mm projectiles based on the angle of the weapon, the weapon system, and the specific round used. This technology is currently configured for the M203, 320, and PGL6 weapon platforms, accommodating various rounds, including High-Explosive (HE) and non-lethal options.

One of the most impressive aspects of the ARD sight is its adaptability. As new weapon systems and rounds are developed, the sight can be updated with the latest software, ensuring it remains at the cutting edge of military technology. This future-proof design means you’ll always have the most up-to-date targeting information at your fingertips.

What sets the ARD sight apart in the heat of battle is its simplicity. Estimating the range to the target and adjusting your weapon accordingly is intuitive. After the first round impacts, the digital readout allows for rapid adjustments, enabling you to bring your target into sight swiftly and accurately.

For a deeper dive into the ARD weapon sight’s capabilities and real-world applications, check out this informative video:

Whether you’re in training or on the battlefield, the ARD weapon sight is a game-changer, providing the precision and reliability you need to stay ahead of the enemy. Equip yourself with the ARD and experience the future of tactical targeting today.

To schedule a demo or find out more, please email sales@matbock.com or check out www.matbock.com/collections/accessories/products/ard-sight

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Optics | 9 Comments »

Unveiled: Minted USMC Coins For 250TH Anniversary

Monday, July 29th, 2024

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, VA —

The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation and the U.S. Mint unveiled a trio of commemorative coin designs honoring the 250 years of Marine Corps service and sacrifice during a minting ceremony July 17, 2024, at the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

The last coin minted in honor of the Marine Corps was for the Corps’ 230th anniversary in 2005, and the generated funds enabled the construction of the NMMC, where the 250th commemorative coins were officially revealed.

“This is a way for everyone in America to recognize the importance of 250 years of what the Marine Corps means to this country,” said retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James W. Lukeman, the president and CEO of the MCHF.

The images on the coins, he said, cover 250 years of “every Marine is a rifleman.” The gold coin depicts the Marine Corps Color Guard while the flag raising of Iwo Jima is on the silver coin, and the clad coin features two Marines: one dons the continental uniform of 1775 with a musket, and the other in modern-day camouflage utilities wielding a M4 service rifle.

“Next year will mark 250 years of the Marine Corps making Marines and winning battles on behalf of our great Nation. These coins represent the cultural significance of our Corps and will directly contribute to the telling of our history and preserving our institution in the hearts of future generations.”

said the Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith.

On July 26, 2023, President Joe Biden signed into law the 250th Marine Corps Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act following its passing through congress, authorizing the minting of over 1 million commemorative coins.

“It’s so special for each of us, because there is so much care that goes into the design of these coins,” said Kristie McNally, the deputy director of U.S. Mint, regarding all the people involved in the design process of the coins. “It’s exciting to actually get to share them with the public.”

All surcharges generated from coin sales will support the MCHF and the NMMC’s future educational, historical, and cultural programs that preserve, showcase and educate the public on Marine Corps history, traditions and culture.

The commemorative coins become a part of the next year’s national celebration of the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary, and this set will be the only commemorative coins minted in 2025.

Specifically, the signed legislation authorized the Department of Treasury to mint 50,000 five-dollar coins, 400,000 one-dollar coins, and 750,000 half-dollar coins.

“I am grateful to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, congressional leaders, and all those who made this coin possible,” said Smith. “We are honored that they would bestow this symbol of appreciation upon us.

To view the Marine Corps’ 250th Anniversary Commemorative Coins, please visit www.usmint.gov/learn/coin-and-medal-programs/commemorative-coins/us-marine-corps-250th-anniversary.

Sales will be available early 2025, at www.usmint.gov.

Story by Shaemus Sawyer, Marine Corps Base Quantico

Photo by LCpl Joaquin Carlos Dela T

Posted in Guest Post, History, USMC | 3 Comments »

DAF Stands Up Integrated Capabilities Office to Advance Operational Imperatives

Sunday, July 28th, 2024

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

In an effort to codify the success and significant gains made in line with the Operational Imperatives, Department of the Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall stood up the Integrated Capabilities Office July 19.

Driven by the need to rapidly modernize the DAF to meet emerging challenges in an era of Great Power Competition, the ICO seeks to institutionalize the speed, agility and rapid innovation that the Operational Imperatives have brought to the force.

“The Integrated Capabilities Office will directly support the Department of the Air Force senior leadership team as we develop our integrated modernization plans for the Air Force and Space Force,” Kendall said. “China, our pacing challenge, is modernizing its military with the intent to defeat U.S. power projection capabilities. We will not let that happen.”

The Operational Imperatives were born out of necessity. Upon his arrival in 2021, Kendall ordered a series of studies and analyses that identified key capability gaps within the force. Seven areas of need were determined imperative to meet the pacing challenge: Resilient Space Order of Battle and Architectures, Joint All-Domain Command and Control, Moving Target Engagement at Scale, Next Generation Air Dominance, Resilient Forward Basing, B-21 Long-Range Strike Family of Systems, and Readiness for Wartime Posture.

Initiated under the DAF’s optimization for Great Power Competition, the ICO is a Secretariat-level office that will continue the work of the Operational Imperatives. Prior to initiation of GPC, the Operational Imperative teams operated mostly ad hoc, which allowed for innovation, speed and agility.

The ICO will facilitate agile Integrated Development Campaign Teams led and staffed by operational experts from the newly formed U.S. Space Force Space Futures Command and U.S. Air Force Integrated Capabilities Command, and acquisition professionals from Air Force Materiel Command’s Integrated Development Office and Space Force acquisition organizations.

The campaign teams will work imperative problem sets and provide data-driven solutions and recommendations. The ICO will incorporate these results into prioritized recommendations for modernization and will collaborate with other organizations to integrate these priorities, along with other portfolios, into the budgeting process.

The ICO will remain in a primarily advisory role but will have direct access to the Secretary and senior leadership, with the ability to make highly collaborative and unfiltered, recommendations to ensure emerging capability opportunities get a voice in the enterprise.

Many of the current Operational Imperatives will graduate to existing programs of record and stakeholder teams.

The ICO, in conjunction with the Integrated Capabilities Command and Space Futures Command, will optimize capability development through assessment, development, integration, and fielding of future capabilities that will rapidly modernize the DAF and preserve the advantages U.S. forces have benefited from for decades. The ICO is on schedule to be fully staffed and resourced by the end of 2024.

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post | Comments Off on DAF Stands Up Integrated Capabilities Office to Advance Operational Imperatives