Part 1 Recap: Exploring the Graverobber™ Assault Insert:
In Part 1, we took a closer look at the Graverobber™ Assault Insert, a critical component of the GRAM kit. This innovative panel insert seamlessly converts into a skeleton med panel, offering unparalleled versatility with its thin padded shoulder straps. Whether clipped or slung, this insert ensures medics can adapt to any mission requirement with ease.
Part 2: Integrating the Graverobber™ Assault Insert into the GRAM Kit:
Now, let’s shift our focus to how this insert seamlessly integrates back into the Graverobber™ Assault Medic Kit, ensuring swift and efficient deployment in critical situations. Additionally, we’ll explore the latest updates unveiled at Shot Show 2024, elevating the functionality of the GRAM kit to new heights.
The MATBOCK® Ethos:
At the core of the GRAM kit lies the ethos of “Lighter Faster Warriors,” embodied by its manufacturer, MATBOCK®. Utilizing MATBOCK Ghost® material with Tegris reinforcements, this kit ensures lightweight performance without compromising on durability. The inclusion of a soft case further enhances its versatility, enabling secure storage of critical medical supplies, including narcotics.
Versatility in Action:
One of the most impressive aspects of the Graverobber™ Assault Medic bag is its unparalleled adaptability. Whether mounted to an ALICE-compatible frame, worn using integrated straps, or zipped onto a carrier’s back panel, this bag offers unmatched versatility in medical load carriage. Its jumpable, water-resistant design bridges the gap between assault bags and en-route care, facilitating seamless transitions between different operational scenarios.
Tailored for the Mission:
The expandable design of the GRAM kit empowers medics to tailor their loadout to specific mission requirements, ensuring optimal efficiency and readiness at all times. Every aspect of this meticulously designed med bag has been crafted with the everyday challenges faced by medics in mind, making it an indispensable companion on the battlefield.
Conclusion:
As we strive to redefine the standards of military gear, the Graverobber™ Assault Medic Kit stands as a beacon of excellence, empowering medics to fulfill their crucial role with confidence and precision. Stay tuned for future updates as we continue to push the boundaries of innovation in military gear. If you’re interested in this or other MATBOCK products, check out www.matbock.com.
Chief Master Sgt. David A. Flosi was formally installed March 8 as the 20th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force.
In remarks after the formal “Change of Responsibility” ceremony in which he assumed the job from retiring Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass, Flosi emphasized both the opportunity before him and what it means to the Total Force at a time of dramatic change and challenge across the service.
“As I assume this role, I’m aware of the challenges ahead,” Flosi said. “We live in a rapidly evolving world, where new threats emerge with alarming frequency, and the demands on our Air Force continue to grow.
“While demanding, I am confident in our ability to rise to the occasion. I am confident because over the course of my career, time and time again, I have witnessed the dedication and professionalism of our Airmen,” he said.
Flosi’s installation as the highest-ranking enlisted noncommissioned officer in the Air Force completes a total overhaul of senior military leaders for the service. Gen. David Allvin was installed as Air Force chief of staff on Nov. 2 and Gen. Jim Slife officially became Air Force vice chief of staff on Dec. 29.
All three senior leaders, along with Department of the Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, will be instrumental in successfully establishing far-reaching plans to “reoptimize” the Air Force to better confront China and other modern-day adversaries.
Allvin stressed that effort in welcoming Flosi during the dignified ceremony, which also included comments from Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and, prior to that, Air Force chief of staff.
“Dynamic, fast-paced environments require agile, determined leadership – that’s exactly what Chief Flosi brings to the fight,” Allvin said. “We’ve got work to do, and I know Chief Flosi is ready to move out on reoptimization to enhance our readiness and mold our one Air Force.”
In his remarks, Kendall offered a glowing tribute to Bass and provided clear guidance for what he expects from Flosi.
Bass, he said, “has served over 30 years in the Air Force, and we are an infinitely better organization because of your service. She’s been a standout leader at every level.
“Chief Flosi, you’re going to have to fill some pretty big shoes. I look forward to working together and to everything you have to offer. I want to welcome you to an incredible team. … We will need your experience and your perspective to make sure the needs of our Airmen and their families are always at the forefront of all of our efforts,” Kendall said.
Brown echoed Kendall in his praise and admiration for Bass.
“Jo, I’m so glad I hired you. You’ve been an inspiration for me. We were able to break barriers together,” Brown said, referring to their shared histories in which Brown was the first African American to be named Chief of Staff of any branch of the military and Bass’s selection as the first woman to serve as a Service senior enlisted advisor in the history of the United States military.
“You’ve been an inspiration to me. You’ve been an inspiration to our Air Force; you’ve been an inspiration to our nation,” Brown said.
Flosi steps into the job being vacated by the retiring Bass, who senior leaders said set the standard by which all subsequent Chiefs will be judged.
“Chief Bass’s passion for Airmen and their families has defined her time as our 19th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force,” Allvin said. “Her tireless work on their behalf has propelled our force forward. Even after over 30 years of dedicated service, I have no doubts that she will continue to be an advocate for Airmen and airpower moving forward.”
In her remarks at the dignified ceremony, Bass highlighted memories and achievements from across her 31-year career. She thanked a list of people who helped her at every point, including her husband Rahn, her parents, and a large group of Air Force colleagues who served as mentors and role models.
She directed special praise to Brown, who selected her to be chief master sergeant of the Air Force when Brown served as chief of staff.
“General Brown, chairman, thank you for hiring me as your wingman and chief. The best words you shared with me were ‘proceed until apprehended.’ And I did just that,” she said.
“I may have gotten apprehended once or twice, maybe three times. In any case, you let me be me and get after the things that matter to our Airmen and their families. It’s been an honor for Rahn and I to serve alongside you and Sharene,” she said.
Flosi’s new job is similar to his previous post but on a larger, more high-profile stage. He arrived at the Pentagon from Air Force Materiel Command at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, where he served as the command chief master sergeant. That role was similar in many respects to the role he now assuming. At AFMC, he is the senior enlisted leader and the primary advisor to the commander on all matters regarding the readiness, training, professional development, and effective utilization of the command’s 89,000 total force Airmen.
Like his predecessors, Flosi pledged to lock arms with Airmen to help them – and the Air Force – thrive and succeed.
“Today, as we stand on the dawn of a new era, we recognize we are serving at a time of consequence. It is imperative we acknowledge the urgency of the challenges we face,” he said.
Later in his remarks, he added, “Fellow Airmen, my commitment to you and to our Air Force is unwavering. As we navigate the complexities of great power competition and seek to optimize our force, I pledge to be your wingman.”
Prior to his tour at Wright-Patterson AFB, Flosi served as the command chief master sergeant at the Air Force’s Sustainment Center at Tinker AFB, Oklahoma.
Flosi began his Air Force career in 1996 as a nuclear weapons specialist. That focus expanded over the years to include various leadership duties in conventional and nuclear munitions, as well as missile operations, program management and test and contingency operations.
Like Bass and previous CMSAFs, Flosi will be the public face for Air Force personnel to those in all levels of government. He will be a personal adviser to Allvin and other senior leaders, both military and civilian, and will be expected to provide insight on issues regarding the welfare, readiness, morale and proper utilization and progress of the Air Force’s entire cadre of Airmen.
Flosi emerged as the clear choice from a group of the most highly respected, experienced graduated command chief master sergeants from across the Air Force’s global operations, officials said. These leaders were selected based on breadth of experience, recommendations from senior commanders and performance across each candidate’s Air Force career.
Story by Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
Following the March 8, 2024 Naval Air Systems Command flight bulletin returning the V-22 Osprey to operation with safety controls in place, Air Force Special Operations Command is implementing a multi-phased approach to ensure our aircrew, maintainers and aircraft are ready to resume flight operations.
Lt Gen Tony Bauernfeind, AFSOC Commander, directed the operational standdown of the CV-22 fleet December 6, 2023 in response to preliminary investigation information indicating a materiel failure following the November 29, 2023 mishap near Yakushima, Japan. This was followed by NAVAIR issuing a flight bulletin grounding the V-22 enterprise.
Phase one of AFSOC’s return to fly plan includes ground and simulator training integrating planned flight controls, safety briefings, a review of maintenance records and refining by-squadron training plans to implement the new safety protocols.
Phase two is a multi-month program for aircrew and maintainers. Aircrew will focus on regaining basic mission currency and proficiency then expansion to full mission currency and proficiency. While maintainers have remained engaged conducting maintenance necessary to sustain the CV-22 during the standdown, they will receive training in line with the maintenance protocols directed by the NAVAIR return to fly bulletin. Each squadron will progress through this phase at different speeds based a variety of factors including maintenance requirements for aircraft, experience level of personnel in the squadron and weather impact to flight schedules.
Phase three will include resumption of full mission profiles, multi-lateral exercises and operational taskings and deployments.
This phased approach affords AFSOC the time required to maximize opportunities to learn as much as possible from the Safety Investigation Board and Accident Investigation Board to mitigate risk to our aircrew, maintainers, and joint partners.
The shooters know what they want. That’s something former SOF Soldier Brendan Souder of Range Project Group International (RPGi) always mentions about competitors in the Virginia/West Virginia area. This truism is proven every year when RPGi hosts its annual Day n Nite Match at Shadow Hawk Defense Range in Hedgesville, WV.
RPGI Day ‘n’ Nite Match
by Saami Spec
It’s the largest competition night match in history. (That we’re aware of, anyway.) The event will accommodate 150 shooter slots, all of which quickly sell out.
The shooters do know what they want, and in this case, it’s shooting at night under a good match director and team.
Directing a night match is no easy feat, let alone the largest in history. Many will not even entertain the thought due to liability worries, e.g., dudes shooting under nods or white light. Pair that with logistical struggles, such as hard time stops due to city ordnance. However, each year (this being the fourth), RPGi handles these issues with professionalism and knowledge.
Not only does RPGi direct a multitude of matches around the country, but Brendan is changing the game when it comes to allowable firearm inclusivity in shooting sports and, another first, hosting international matches!
In this article we will talk about the night match, what it takes to shoot one, and an overview of how RPGi is a positive influence in growing the shooting sports.
Range Project Group International (RPGi)
Founded by Brendan Souder and located in the panhandle of Florida, Range Project Group international runs a multitude of matches both domestically and internationally along with providing high-end professional training courses.
Souder retired from the Special Forces Community as a Chief Warrant Officer 2 after a 20-year career both within the Ranger and SF community. This very much influenced his knowledge and desire for international shooting matches. On the civilian shooting career side, Souder holds a GrandMaster Classification in USPSA and a multitude of certifications. In addition to Souder, RPGi has a staff of prior military along with higher classified shooters.
The Day n Nite Match
Every year, RPGi travels to Shadow Hawk Defense Training Center in West Virginia to host the annual night match. This event always sells out quickly, pulling competition shooters from the Northern Virginia area, including all the way down to Marine Corps Base Quantico. The last match was in November 2023, and in that match, most of the trophies were taken by Marine Corps shooters working under night vision.
Night Clinic
Before match day, RPGi held a night clinic at Shadowhawk to address the needs and wants of shooters who had never shot a night match before. This was a three-hour format that involved a few drills and runs through a stage. Runs were critiqued and allowed to be shot again. Any division was welcomed, but the clinic was split up on the drills, depending on whether the competitor was running white light or had night vision.
Match Overview
The Day N Nite match was split into two portions: a day portion with 7 stages and a night portion with 7 stages. These stages are in a CQB style format with targets arrayed from 5 to 25 yards (all paper) and are kept under 30 rounds with time plus points scoring. In layman’s terms, two hits on paper allow you to move on to the next target. If impacting a no-shoot or failing to engage, time penalties are added. Physical exercises are added to the daytime stages but are removed during the night for safety reasons.
Many of the stages were unloaded starts. Taurus provided two “stage” guns, a lever gun and a pistol, which added a fun aspect to the match.
Day ‘n’ Nite Match Divisions
White Light Pistol
White Light Rifle
White Light PCC
NVG Pistol
NVG Rifle
NVG PCC
Who Shoots It?
To put these matches in perspective, we will go over the last Day N Nite match scores.
Out of 150 shooters, there were…
32 military shooters, 8 of those being top ten overall in the match 96 civilians, 7 of those being top twenty overall in the match 6 lady competitors 4 Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs) 2 junior competitors 6 senior competitors
RPGRPGi likes to put a level of physical stress into their matches, such as in their Tough Gunner and SOF matches. Not only are there options to wear kit, but there will often be exercises such as deadlifts or tire flips that add to your time and get the heart pumping. In the Day N Nite match, there were tire flips, sled pulls, deadlifts, and sprints. If a shooter chose not to participate in the exercise, an alternate exercise was provided, and/or time was added to the overall stage time.
This is another excellent reason for dudes who run guns for a living to come shoot these matches.
Shooting YOUR First Night Match
It can be intimidating.
While this last match allowed for a day portion before the night portion of the match, these night matches are not always day and night. Thus, if you are shooting your very first match, it should probably be a local club match during the day. Each of these matches has seen a small number of brand-new shooters, and while they got through it, the Day N Nite match has higher stakes when it comes to safety. Shooters with at least one match under their belt is an understandable, warranted ask.
These are fast-paced matches with a time cut-off at night. The match needs to run smoothly, and all shooters and gear need to be ready when they get up to shoot.
Note: If you are running night vision, this also shouldn’t be the first time that you’ve run a gun with them.
Equipment will be division-dependent. The match is very inclusive, allowing most shooters to grab what they already have and shoot. Crazy competition belt setups aren’t needed.
For instance, have a pistol, outside the waistband (OWB) holster, and weapon-mounted light? You can shoot. Only have an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster? Cool, you can shoot the match. In fact, there were shooters that shot this entire competition IWB. Have a .223 gun with a white light? Come out and shoot. Running full kit with white phosphorus dual tube night vision? Bring it out and show off your money.
This is a big reason why night matches like these—and the match directors who run them—are so appreciated and needed. Not only does it allow civilians to experience running and gunning in such environments, but it’s good for the military and LEO competitors, too. Let’s be real. Military dues aren’t often running their issued equipment in training settings like this. They’re usually on flat ranges with heavy left and right limits, and they’re only hitting a couple of courses a year.
In a competitive environment like this, the pace is much faster, and targets are much tighter. These matches will make guys better with the equipment they use. Thank you to RPGi and Brendan Souder for allowing an environment to make that happen.
Personal Takeaway
As a female shooter with a small amount of USPSA-style matches under my belt and most of my background being in long-range precision matches, the RPGi Day N Nite match in West Virginia was a bit intimidating, especially because it was the first time I shot a night match. I chose to run carbine white light due to not having the opportunity to run carbine in CQB style very often. I ran a 16-inch .223 carbine with a 14.5-inch Ballistic Advantage barrel with a pin and welded Cobalt Kinetics RCB Key Mo muzzle devise. For white light, I ran a Modlite PLH in an Arisaka offset mount. On top was an Aimpoint RDS on a Unity Tactical FAST Mount. I wore a simple Blue Force Gear CHLK belt with one mag pouch and a med kit on my back.
RPGi’s night clinic before the match gave me the opportunity to gain some comfort and confidence before the actual match. The clinic proved that if you know safe gun handling and have shot matches before, you should be fine at night with white light. You may be slower, but a lot moves from the day into the night.
I’m a smaller-framed female. The physical portion was not too much for me. If it was, I had the option to choose an alternate event or even skip it for a time penalty. I was able to successfully complete each physical event, though, and it added a fun stressor.
As far as the atmosphere of the match goes, it’s a really fun set-up. There was a food truck out there all day, and lunch was paid for within the match fee. Between the day and night portions, there was about a two-hour break waiting for it to get dark. Many hung out and tailgated while waiting and prepping their gear for the night shoot. Shooters were having a great time while still coming out and being competitive.
Overall, the match allowed me to get comfortable shooting at night and test my gear. As said previously, I don’t get to run my carbine build much, which taught me a few lessons. For instance, the unloaded starts caused me to adjust my mag catch to run a little tighter. It also caused me to add dielectric grease to the threads of my Modlite, as the battery cap was being really finicky about powering the light.
International Matches
Brendan Souder’s unique background has allowed him to travel all around the world and stay in these places for months at a time. This has influenced his passion for international travel and his desire to spread this culture to the shooting community. Just like the risk that Souder takes on holding low-light matches, he is now taking on the responsibility of hosting matches internationally and bringing Americans and their guns overseas to shoot these matches.
Shooting International Films
What many Americans don’t realize, and what Souder saw firsthand during his travels, is that in many countries, gun laws are very different than in the U.S. They often involve geo-political friction points. To get more eyes on these issues and give Americans a more informed perspective on gun rights, Brendan started filming Shooting International. These films show first hand accounts from citizens that live and shoot within those countries about laws and experiences within the shooting sports. Brendan’s films also provide background on the country and allow his team to show us around. So far, Souder and his crew have traveled to Colombia and Brazil to film and shoot.
All-Inclusive Matches
Inclusive matches, meaning those that allow all different kinds of guns and gear to shoot, will often be smaller local club matches. To shoot larger matches, shooters will need to adhere to strict division rules like those within the United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) and similar organization’s sanctioned matches. However, RPGi has shown inclusive matches can be large, even completely selling out. The 2023 Day N Nite match was the largest match of its kind in history.
Souder’s crew will prove this again in a few months when RPGi comes back to West Virginia to host the Cinco de May Match with a new authorized division: shotgun.
Yes, shotguns will be shooting right next to PCCs, .223 rifles, and open-type pistols. That’s a pretty unique thing. There just aren’t many opportunities to run shotguns in fast competitions that aren’t a 3-gun style match or sanctioned IPSC event.
More from RPGi
Upcoming Matches
These are just a few of RPGi’s upcoming events. Be sure to check their schedule regularly – new events are hitting the calendar regularly.
Florida
RPGi SOF Match 2024 “Luck of the Irish” (PCSL): March 16, 2024
RPGi USPSA Low Light Match: March 23, 2024 ·
RPGi Tough Gunner 2024 RNG Match at the Farm (Gaskin, FL): April 13, 2024 ·
RPGi USPSA April 2024 Match at the Farm: April 20, 2024 ·
RPGi Florida State “9-Banger” Rifle Championship (PCSL) at the Farm: June 15, 2024
West Virginia
RPGi Cinco De Mayo CQB Match hosted at Shadow Hawk Defense: May 4, 2024 ·
RPGi Blackout Nationals hosted at Shadow Hawk Defense: November 14, 2024
International
RPGi PCSL Caribbean Championship hosted at MH Tactical: January 20, 2024. Now complete.
Training
Along with private sessions, RPGi offers specialty training such as competition and night shoot clinics. For military, gov, and LE folk, RPGi has access to a live shoot house and offers weekend courses.
Shooting International
Be on the lookout for more Shooting International episodes. Not too long ago, for example, Brendan Souder and the RPGi team traveled to Trinidad and Tobago for the first International PSCL match (that’s Practical Competition Shooting League).
“Saami Spec” is a pseudonym, as required by the author’s full-time employer. Saami is a veteran of a full-time Army National Guard unit where she served as a Small Arms Repairer and worked to bolster their marksmanship team. Now a gunsmith and technical writer in the Federal LE world, she writes with a background of many armorer classes and numerous competitions under her belt. An avid reloader who builds the bullets she competes with, she is currently heavily involved in the long-range world and competes in the National Rifle League Hunter, various Gas Gun Precision Series, PSCL, and assorted other kinds of competitive shooting.
Posted in Guest Post, Shooting Sports | Comments Off on Largest Night Match in History SUCCESS: RPGI
Fort Liberty, N.C. — The 2024 Command Sgt. Maj. Jack L. Clark, Jr. U.S. Army Best Medic Competition was held from March 4-8, at Fort Liberty. This year’s winners are Staff Sgt. Patrick Murphy, 75th Ranger Regiment, and Staff Sgt. Ryan Musso, 75th Ranger Regiment, both of Hunter Army Airfield.
The Army Best Medic Competition is a two-Soldier team competition that physically and intellectually challenges the Army’s top medics in a three-day event that includes a realistic simulated operational environment. The competition pushes Soldiers to their limits to test their tactical and technical operational medicine capabilities — the skills required to bring the injured, ill or wounded warfighter home. More than 50 competitors squared off in teams of two for this year’s competition.
“This is about our Soldiers having combat ready care on the battlefield [in order] to be the most lethal force,” said Lt. Gen Mary K. Izaguirre, Surgeon General of the Army and commanding general of Army Medical Command, at the finish of the competition’s mystery event. “[Soldiers] are going to need everything we ask of you.”
The course tests medical skills and physical capabilities. However, the rigor prepares medics for combat deployments or any other demanding assignment the medics needs to do.
The competition is designed to simulate a realistic environment that includes emerging threats and to represent real-world combat conditions.”
“This competition makes me want to train harder,” said Musso. “To bring my [Soldiers] up to the level where we had to be over the last few days.” Musso said the hardest part was pushing himself farther than he had before.
The competition included events such as were foot marches, prolonged field care, weapons qualifications, day and night land navigation, knowledge test, and a mystery event and of a series of tasks the medics might face on the battlefield.
“Really glad to see all the hard work paid off,” said Murphy. “The hardest event for me was the dragging the Skedco for more than two miles.” (Editor’s note: A Skedco is a stretcher system used for transporting patients.)
Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy Sprunger said to the competitors at the conclusion of the final event, “We were here to find the best of the best. Congratulations.”
Army medics serve as the first line of care for injured, ill or wounded Soldiers and ensures medical readiness. They must be ready when called upon to deploy, fight and win in combat.
“They put it all out there,” said Sprunger. “They did a great job.”
The Command Sgt. Maj. Jack L. Clark, Jr. Army Best Medic Competition is dedicated to the 13th command sergeant major of the U.S. Army Medical Command. Clark was one of the most respected leaders and noncommissioned officers in the history of the command who understood the important role of medics in the Army and the trust Soldiers and leaders of units in combat must have in the Army Medical Department.
The competition is open to all active duty, Army National Guard and Army Reserve medical soldiers who have earned the competitive Combat Medical Badge or Expert Field Medical Badge.
Both Musso and Murphy agreed that future medics considering the competition should, “put themselves in really hard situations and force themselves to not quit.”
UNION, Missouri – Black Sheep Ammo, Veteran owned / 100% USA owned ammunition manufacturer is now building 6.5 Creedmoor, 143GR ELD. Built with premium USA components and propellants designed to excel in long range applications. Black Sheep Ammo is dedicated to building clean, reliable, 100% USA ammunition.
This week’s Friday Focus, is the Hooded Field Shirt. Designed for the modern warrior, this garment seamlessly blends functionality with comfort, ensuring peak performance in any mission or adventure.
• American Wool
• Oversized hood
• Low profile cuffs with thumb holes
• Made in the USA
• Antimicrobial
Don’t be fooled by its lightweight feel – this ACM Base 150 wool fabric offers unparalleled performance benefits that you won’t find in any ordinary shirt. Its updated makeup of 55% Lenzing, 33% wool and 12% nylon offer the perfect blend of synthetic and wool to offer superior fabric properties with increased durability. The hooded field shirt features a slightly larger hood, low profile cuffs, and thumb holes. Use it as a base layer or wear it all on its own, no matter which way you choose, you’ll be sure to stand out as a true patriot in this American-made garment. Don’t leave home without it.
The integrated hood provides additional protection against the elements, allowing you to adapt to changing weather conditions without compromising on performance. Whether it’s shielding from wind, or harsh sunlight, the hood offers versatility without sacrificing functionality.
Built to withstand the rigors of the field, this shirt exemplifies FirstSpear’s commitment to quality and reliability. From the reinforced stitching to the premium wool, every aspect of its construction is designed to endure the demands of your mission, season after season.
The FirstSpear Hooded Field Shirt is more than just a piece of clothing; it’s a testament to innovation, performance, and resilience. Whether you’re a professional operator, outdoor enthusiast, or weekend warrior, this garment empowers you to face any challenge with confidence.
For more information about the Hooded Field Shirt click here.
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – The Recovery of Airbase Denied by Ordnance (RADBO), a variant of the Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) family, was utilized operationally for the first-time during Exercise Cope North 24 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, in late January.
Cope North 24 is a multinational, U.S. Pacific Air Forces-sponsored, field training exercise focused on airborne integration for large-force employment and agile combat employment.
“Exercise Cope North is an annual exercise where EOD Technicians from across the Air Force, as well as the joint service, practice the EOD portion of the Rapid Airfield Damage Recovery mission,” said John Stewart, Air Force Civil Engineer Center EOD Modernization Program analyst and RADBO User Representative. “As a premier RADR exercise, fielding RADBO to the Andersen’s Red Horse Training Squadron provided exposure to the larger Air Force EOD enterprise who will start seeing RADBOs delivered to air bases and training locations globally.”
The intent of the vehicle is to utilize directed energy, or lasers, to safely neutralize and clear unexploded ordnance – such as bombs, grenades, improvised munitions, or other explosive devices – on airfields in deployed or austere locations.
“From a program office point of view, the performance was excellent,” said Tony Miranda, RADBO program manager with the Agile Combat Support Directorate’s Support Equipment and Vehicles Division. “There was a learning curve due to the atmospheric interference not encountered before, but the field service reps from the original equipment manufacturer made adjustments and resolved the focus issue.”
Miranda highlighted that the Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams were excited to have the RADBO asset in hand and praised the vehicle’s performance. RADBO is a crucial part of the Air Force Civil Engineering Center’s Rapid Explosive Hazard Mitigation and Rapid Airfield Damage Recovery concept.
“The role of RADBO is to rapidly neutralize any unexploded ordnance after an airfield attack so the airfield is safe for civil engineering to repair runway damage, allowing the air mission to continue and get the aircraft back in the fight,” said Miranda.
The key features of the RADBO allow for EOD operators to neutralize unexploded ordnances from the safety of the armored vehicle.
“The host chassis is a MRAP CAT 1A1 Cougar in which the Zeus III Laser System is integrated on,” said Miranda. “The Zeus III Laser System is a 3KW fiber optic laser that can fire continuously, provided there is diesel in the tanks for the Cougar to produce power.”
The Zeus III Laser System is effective at ranges from 50-300 meters. The requirement for a RADBO was identified in 2012 by Gen. Goldfein, then Combined Forces Air Component Commander.
“Gen. Goldfein signed an urgent operational need to rapidly neutralize multiple UXOs, repair the damaged runway, and return the airfield to service quickly,” explained Miranda. “Directed energy was somewhat of a new technology for the Air Force, so it has taken a very long time to get to where we are now.”
Currently the program office has fielded 13 RADBOs. Two prototypes are being upgraded to a production configuration, for a fleet of 15.
“The program office is also working on a contract modification to produce 14 additional RADBOs,” said Miranda. “Moreover, there is a lot of interest from our global allies in the RADBO system, so the program office foresees different variants of RADBO around the world in the next 10 years.”
Story by SSgt Mikaley Kline, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center Public Affairs
Photos by SrAJasmine M. Barnes
Posted in Air Force, EOD, Guest Post | Comments Off on Recovery of Air Bases Denied by Ordnance (RADBO) Showcases Abilities at COPE NORTH 24