Come see us at SHOT Show next week over at booth #32111 (look for the giant FirstSpear tube) Tuesday, January 21st through Friday, January 24th. Check out our product line-up and catch up with our team to learn more about what’s coming in 2025!
FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting edge-tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train.
For more information visit First-Spear.com.
Join us for the Sons of Liberty Gun Works 2025 SHOT Show Kick Off Party presented by Prairiefire, an exciting event designed for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. Join us at the Leatherneck Club Las Vegas, following the Prairiefire Range Day!
We are proud to support the Special Operations Care Fund (SOC-F), an organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of Special Operations families. Established in 2013, SOC-F focuses on filling critical gaps in healthcare, mental health, and family support for our veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.
Event Highlights:
Silent Raffle
Complimentary Food
Great Beverages and Company
“I am honored to have been involved with the Special Operations Care Fund for the past ten years and hosting our third annual SOLGW SHOT Kick Off Party is a testament to our commitment to supporting the brave men and women who serve our country. This event not only allows us to celebrate their sacrifices but also to raise vital funds that directly impact the lives of Special Operations families. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and show our gratitude for their unwavering dedication.” – William Phebus, Director of Sales and Business Development.
Tickets:
Available now at qtego.us/l/solgwparty/tickets
or
At the door for $20 cash.
Location:
Leatherneck Club Las Vegas 4360 W Spring Mountain Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89102
For raffle sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at william@solgw.com.
NEW FOR 2025!
T-KOOL MID in Brown Suede & Black Suede – This low-viz, high-performance boot delivers the traction and support needed to tackle operational conditions. The low-viz design makes it an equally perfect boot to wear to the gym or for running around town at the end of the day. Featuring a lightweight EVA midsole, the T-Kool rides like a running shoe with the support and durability of a tactical boot.
T-KOOL MID in Black Leather – This low-viz, high-performance leather boot delivers the traction and support needed to tackle operational conditions for both military and law enforcement personnel. The low-viz design makes it an equally perfect boot to wear to the gym or for running around town at the end of the day. Featuring a lightweight EVA midsole, the T-Kool rides like a running shoe with the support and durability of a tactical boot.
M-CARBON 6 – Everything you love about the M-Carbon 8 in a 6-inch boot! Featuring OTB’s carbon fiber propulsion plate, the M-Carbon 6 is OTB’s follow-up to the game-changing 8-inch carbon-plated boot that has been winning both tactical competitions and rave reviews from customers. The marathon inspired carbon plate delivers incredible spring, support, and enhanced forward propulsion to maximize athletic performance.
See these new additions as well as the entire OTB Boots line in booth #40751 during SHOT Show, January 21-24 in Las Vegas.
FORT RILEY, Kan. — In future operations, speed will equate to survivability, especially for armored formations — the Army’s most mobile and lethal force.
Commanders will need resilient high-capacity on-the-move (OTM) network connectivity, the foundation for mobile command and control (C2), to inform rapid decisions, swift maneuver and dispersed command post (CP) operations.
As part of the Army’s network transformation efforts, the service is preparing for the second phase of its Armored Formation Network (AFN) OTM Pilot, supported by the 1st Infantry Division, to inform the right combination of emerging commercial network technologies that best support these units and their fast-paced missions.
“This new equipment is providing a definite advantage,” said Lt. Col. Marreo Burch, senior division communications officer (G6) for 1st ID. “To give the commanding general and other senior leaders the ability to move around the battlefield and stay connected — especially with the adversary’s ability to detect the command post from just a sheer electromagnetic spectrum standpoint — increases our survivability [and lethality].”
The diverse set of emerging commercial AFN OTM and at-the-quick-halt pilot capabilities includes high-throughput low-latency satellite communications systems that operate in both geosynchronous and low Earth orbits. The kit also includes multi-band high-capacity line-of-sight (LOS) backhaul and mesh networking capabilities, commercial 5G LTE cellular, and secure Wi-Fi. Baseband systems include a Secure But Unclassified-Encrypted enclave to enable integration of Integrated Tactical Network data exchange.
Having the ability to leverage multiple transport options will not only enhance the unit’s operational flexibility but increase network resiliency, ensuring data can be exchanged in denied, degraded, intermittent, and low-bandwidth (DDIL) environments, including enemy jamming attempts.
“To be able to track the fight, not just over lower tactical internet [lower echelon radio-based networks], but now upper tactical internet (TI), on a digital common operational picture, and process all the information that comes in from those brigades, definitely provides the division commander and our senior leaders better visualization of the battlefield in large scale combat operations,” Burch said. “Instead of losing a major understanding of the battle moving from command post to command post, having that [upper TI] on-the-move keeps those commanders, those senior leaders, in the fight and provides [continual] battlefield circulation.”
NETWORK CONNECTIVITY INSIDE VEHICLES
In preparation for the pilot, the Army’s Project Manager Tactical Network (PM TN) and Project Manager Interoperability and Services (PM I2S), at the Program Executive Office Command, Control, Communications, and Network (PEO C3N) — in tandem with other Army organizations including the C2 Cross Functional Team, Army Futures Command — partnered with industry to integrate a wide variety of new commercial OTM network capabilities onto the 1st ID’s Humvees and Joint Light Tactical Vehicles. The intent, however, is for the AFN design to be a modular kit that can be incorporated into other platforms, including Armored Multi-purpose Vehicles and Strykers. Because of this modularity, units will also be able to quickly install, replace, or add components that better serve specific mission sets. The equipment provides a significant size-weight and power reduction compared to current capabilities, which is critical for armored vehicle integration and increased command post mobility.
The AFN OTM equipment set includes advanced software capabilities such as the Army’s automatic primary, alternate, contingency and emergency (auto-PACE) communications capabilities that simplify bandwidth diversity for Soldiers in the fight. During the 1st ID command post exercise (CPX) at Fort Riley, in November, held in preparation for the upcoming pilot, Burch got a first-hand look at the auto-PACE capability as he conducted operations inside one of the integrated vehicles.
“During my 45-minute ride, when one transport was degraded, it would auto-switch to the lower latency mode of transport while we were moving,” he said. “It made sure that the highest, most efficient means of communication transport was selected. It definitely helped with maintaining comms while on the move.”
SUPPORTING NETWORK MODERNIZATION
The Army is leveraging lessons learned and Soldier feedback from the first phase of the AFN OTM pilot, conducted at Fort Stewart, Georgia, in January 2022, to implement phase two. This second phase will be supported by 1st ID Headquarters, Division Artillery Brigade and 1st Brigade Combat Team Headquarters, during the units’ combat training center rotations at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California, later in fiscal year 2025.
Learning from combat training rotations helps to ensure the Army maintains a competitive advantage over its adversaries, including fighting in DDIL environments, use of the electromagnetic spectrum, protected communications, cyber security, and distributed C2 at echelon.
During the AFN OTM Pilot phase two, Soldiers will evaluate solutions that are interoperable with the existing network, while providing a path to the future. Soldier feedback will inform decisions on enduring AFN OTM capability baseline and requirements using technologies that will also help shape other Army modernization efforts, such as command post modernization; C2Fix efforts that deliver simple, intuitive, mobile and lower signature solutions to current close-combat forces; and Next Generation C2 for future warfare.
Supporting the Army’s efforts to pull technical complexity up to division and above, the AFN OTM Pilot will evaluate the best distribution of networking capabilities within armored formations that provides value without over-burdening Soldiers at lower echelons.
ENHANCING CP MOBILITY
To prepare for future large scale combat operations, the Army has ceased developing large, static command posts, opting instead for more mobile command posts with faster setup and teardown, and better ability to conduct distributed operations. The AFN OTM equipment set includes expeditionary at-the-quick-halt satellite systems that deliver high-throughput low-latency command post network connectivity in minutes, providing units with faster command post displacement and maneuver, greater operational flexibility, and increased survivability compared to legacy equipment. Additionally, an aerial layer leverages variable height antennas to extend high-capacity LOS range, overcome LOS terrain challenges such a tree canopies, or enable units to hide from detection.
“The speed at which the enemy can [identify] us once we turn on all of our equipment and systems is really our biggest challenge,” said Maj. Adam Black, deputy G6, 1st ID, from inside one of the integrated vehicles during the CPX.
The commercial AFN OTM baseline kit enables the unit to better conduct dispersed communications, or the ability to spread out the command post operations, “so we can fight a command post separated over a country’s distance rather than just in one spot,” Black said. “Inevitably, we are going to be under contact, and that is what we have to prepare for. If [we operate dispersed and] we lose a specific section of our CP, we won’t lose the entire CP.”
As the Army continues to move network complexity to division echelons and relevant emerging network technologies require more bandwidth, armored formations will need reliable upper TI OTM communication solutions to execute decentralized C2, which will enable commanders to make timely and informed decisions on the battlefield and outmaneuver the enemy.
“As an armored unit, our biggest issue historically has been being able to communicate on upper TI across the battlefield,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Justin Carrier, network technician, 1st ID. “Because of the amount and types of transport [in this kit], I have faith that we can retain some form of [upper TI] network transport in any type of disruptive environment.”
By Amy Walker, Project Manager Tactical Network, PEO C3N, public affairs
About Jed Doc:
Jed Doc is a multi-disciplinary team of tactical practitioners that assists clients with understanding, developing, and deploying capabilities to support the national security interests of the United States and its Allies.
Understanding: Jed Doc provides Tactical Tech Scouting in current conflict areas and emerging crisis areas to provide insights on emerging tactics, techniques, and technology.
Development: Jed Doc provides Proving Ground Operations and Technical Effects Consulting by leading and organizing events to assess the effectiveness of defense technology products under conditions of current and future operating environments. Jed Doc conducts these events inside, and outside of the continental United States.
Deployment: Jed Doc assists clients with deploying their products to current conflict areas and emerging crisis areas by providing physical security, commercially consistent secure communication systems, infrastructure, logistics, and customer integration.
Tech on Tech:
One way Jed Doc accomplishes development this is through its novel Tech on Tech program, which provides tailored force-on-force environments to aid companies in product development, testing, and evaluation on a monthly basis.
Tech on Tech events are built around the needs of the customer and simulate real-world conditions so that companies can evaluate their strengths and weaknesses and rapidly iterate on-site while simultaneously gaining exposure to end users.
Tech on Tech 25.2 is scheduled for 17-20 February in Moore County, North Carolina and registration is open until February 7th. Slots are available on a limited basis with first come first serve for six companies. The theme of 25.2 is “SUAS/CUAS Capture the Flag” with observer participation from US Government agencies and military organizations.
The Forge:
The Forge Defense Technology Scouting Platform weekly newsletter service and archive is oriented on identifying the ongoing evolution of Tactics, Techniques, and Technology as seen in current crises and conflict zones around the world and providing commentary and analysis. Those interested in The Forge’s weekly updates can subscribe here.
Those interested in learning more about The Forge, Tech on Tech, or other services provided by Jed Doc can contact jeddoc@proton.me.
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —
An MQ-9 Reaper circles above the Melrose Air Force Range in New Mexico, surveying the area below as it prepares to land on a dirt strip. On the ground the 1st Special Operations Mission Sustainment Team (SOMST) secures the landing zone, ready to refuel and rearm the aircraft.
More than 1,100 miles away, at Hurlburt Field, Florida, an MQ-9 pilot and sensor operator control the remotely piloted aircraft from a ground control station.
The 65th Special Operations Squadron hosted Exercise Reaper Castillo Nov. 4 to Dec. 18, 2024 to sharpen mission-essential tasks and develop MQ-9 Agile Combat Employment (ACE) capabilities. The goal: create a lighter, leaner and more agile force.
The exercise validated the MQ-9’s ability to conduct key operations in austere environments, including dirt-strip landings, refueling, rearming and rapid relaunch.
“In the future fight, we assess we will no longer be able to rely exclusively on the main operating bases that have persisted,” said the 1st SOMST flight commander. “Operating in austere environments anytime, anyplace and anywhere is critical. It enables commanders to have options – something critically needed in special operations forces.”
Typically, the MQ-9 requires a paved runway with a group of maintainers and extensive support functions. However, during the exercise a light SOMST footprint on an austere dirt airfield provided all necessary functions to support mission execution.
“If special operations MSTs can enable mission generation at the forward edge of the battlefield, it can increase the lethality, range, and overall capability of the aircraft for strategic and tactical national interests,” the flight commander said.
The MQ-9 Reaper is a versatile and precise intelligence, surveillance and strike platform and its adaptability and range of capabilities make it an asset for modern military operations.
These capabilities align with ACE, a strategy focused on enhancing flexibility and resilience by dispersing forces across multiple, often austere, locations. With its ability to operate in remote environments and adapt to rapidly changing mission requirements, the MQ-9 plays a role in supporting ACE’s emphasis on decentralized operations and rapid deployment.
“The MQ-9 is extremely relevant in today’s fight and will be in the future as well,” said a 65th SOS MQ-9 evaluator pilot and exercise mission commander. “It allows us to go places and do things that we cannot risk sending manned aircraft – such as high-threat environments.”
The exercise builds on the hard work of the 65th SOS’s sister squadrons over the past few years and will provide important data and lessons learned for the next squadron to push the concepts even further, said Lt. Col. Kurtis Paul, 65th SOS commander.
“On its surface, Reaper Castillo 24 is an exercise created and executed by the 65th SOS. But in reality, it’s another step in Air Force Special Operations Command’s efforts to push MQ-9 operations beyond conventional means,” Paul added. “It brought together many members from multiple AFSOC wings and it’s humbling to have the Lucky Dicers’ stamp on this iteration – this was truly a win for all of AFSOC remotely piloted aircraft and where we’re headed in the future.”
As the future of Air Force operations adapt to emerging technologies and evolving threats, the forward-thinking approach of these teams is crucial to unlocking the full potential of the MQ-9.
“We have to break out of the mindset that we need a huge, paved runway with co-located launch and recovery aircrews,” the mission commander added. “If we can free ourselves from the traditional mindset, it makes MQ-9 combat reach nearly limitless.”
By Senior Airman Deanna Muir, 1st Special Operations Wing
We’re thrilled to announce Augustine Consulting Inc, Galvion, Juggernaut Case, MP Antenna and Somewear Labs as Silver Sponsors for Tough Stump Rodeo 2025!
These incredible sponsors bring innovative solutions and expertise that will elevate this year’s event, supporting the cutting-edge technologies and collaborative efforts that define the Tough Stump Rodeo.
What They Bring to TSR25:
• Augustine Consulting : Delivering tailored engineering and technical solutions for mission success.
• Galvion: Leaders in advanced personal protection and power management systems.
• Juggernaut Case: Providing rugged, mission-ready gear for seamless mobile device integration.
• MP Antenna: Experts in high-performance antenna solutions for mission-critical communications.
• Somewear Labs: Innovators in global satellite communication and situational awareness tools.
We’re honored to have their support as we prepare for an unforgettable week of innovation, problem-solving, and collaboration in Montana’s rugged terrain.
Now in its fifth year, the Tough Stump Rodeo returns, providing attendees with an exclusive in-person opportunity to explore products designed to enhance operational collaboration and boost safety.
Save the Dates: June 2-6, 2025
Registration Opens January 2025 – Limited Seating
FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. — Sixteen U.S. Army National Guard Soldiers with the 166th Regiment – Regional Training Institute recently completed a Combat Lifesaver, or CLS course, instructed by the RTI’s Medical Battalion Training Site, Dec. 16-20, 2024.
The CLS course is a 40-hour program and covers a wide variety of topics pertaining to medical field care. A CLS-trained Soldier is capable of providing advanced first aid and lifesaving techniques in combat situations.
“In the CLS course we cover everything that happens from the point of injury until a casualty is evacuated and transported to the next level of medical care,” said Sgt. Joshua Nassau, a MBTS combat medic specialist and CLS course instructor.
During the course, students trained on head injuries, hypothermia treatment, pain management and antibiotics, splinting and applying tourniquets to wounds, calling in a 9-line medical evacuation, various patient reports, documentation and more.
This course was unique in that all instructors and students were 166th Regiment RTI staff members.
“It’s been a great week of camaraderie building,” said Sgt. 1st Class Wellington Brown, a CLS student. “Since we’re all with the RTI, we’re able to bond and develop together while, having a good time while getting some great training.”
But what’s the value in the RTI conducting a CLS course for its own instructors and staff? Nassau provided some insight, saying, “If something happens to one of these instructors’ students in the field, having this training allows them to respond immediately and provide the needed medical care until a medic arrives.”
This makes sense, considering CLS-trained Soldiers are not intended to replace medical personnel outright. But their training can help slow the decline of a wounded Soldier’s condition until medical help arrives, and then a CLS can provide further assistance to that medic and the patient.
“It’s a very hands-on course, which is good for retaining all the knowledge we’ve learned,” said Brown. “I see a lot of value in the course and would recommend it to others.”
By SFC Shane Smith
