Guest Post | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for the ‘Guest Post’ Category

Tactical Tuesday: Save up to 40% on 4 New Sale Items!

Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024

Vertx dropped prices on 4 of their latest Men’s Shirts, giving you up to $37 in savings. These aren’t your average shirts; they feature unique pockets for EDC, high-performance fabrics, and versatile colors. Designed for comfort and functionality in any environment, they’re perfect for tactical problem-solvers like yourself. Check them out before they’re gone!

• Recce Technical Shirt (Short Sleeve) – Now: $55.99 (Was: $92.99)

• Recce Technical Shirt (Long Sleeve) – Now: $64.99 (Was: $97.99)

• Flagstaff Shirt (Short Sleeve) – Now: $64.99 (Was: $92.99)

• Flagstaff Shirt (Long Sleeve) – Now: $69.99 (Was: $99.99)

Once they’re gone, they’re gone – so stock up while supplies last!

Shop now at vertx.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, Guest Post | No Comments »

US Army’s Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon Battery Debuts in Resolute Hunter Exercise

Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. — The U.S. Army’s Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon Battery, part of the 1st Multi-Domain Task Force, made history by participating in Exercise Resolute Hunter 24-2, a joint, combined exercise on the base from June 25-27, 2024. This exercise marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time the Army’s hypersonic capability was integrated into the bi-annual joint training exercise.

Hosted by the Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center at Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada, Resolute Hunter 24-2 is the Department of Defense’s only dedicated battle management, command and control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance exercise. This year’s event brought together three participating nations and four joint services for a three-week training exercise.

Building on this achievement, Col. Charles Kean, commander of the 1st MDTF, emphasized the importance of this exercise, stating, “these scenarios provide invaluable sets and repetitions that build upon and reinforce the steadfast integration of MDTF capabilities in the broader partnered joint all-domain construct.”

The exercise demonstrated the battery’s ability to integrate with higher joint echelons and sustain operations over an extended period. Bravo Battery, 5th Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery (Long Range Fires Battalion), 1MDTF, successfully employed its force package for over 72 hours, showcasing the long-range hypersonic weapon digital kill chain in collaboration with joint partners and providing real-time situational awareness to the joint command post.

Capt. Jennifer Lee, commander of Bravo Battery, highlighted the significance of the exercise, stating, “Exercise Resolute Hunter 24-2 demonstrated the critical role of landpower and the Army’s indispensable contribution to joint operations. I’m proud of our team’s commitment to excellence and their ability to adapt and innovate in a complex and dynamic training scenario.”

The Army’s long-range hypersonic weapon development has been a long-term effort, with Soldiers contributing to the prototyping process since 2019. After receiving the initial hardware delivery in March 2021, the unit initiated new equipment training in September 2021, which consisted of four three-week iterations. The fielding process was completed by the end of fiscal year 2023, enabling Soldiers to train on the equipment, create doctrine, and develop new tactics, techniques and procedures.

In February 2023, the unit deployed the capability more than 3,000 miles away to Cape Canaveral, Florida, in the system’s longest recorded overland movement to date, as part of Exercise Thunderbolt Strike, demonstrating the Army’s ability to rapidly deploy the hypersonic capability.

Since then, the unit has participated in several other named and joint exercises, with Resolute Hunter being the latest.

As a theater-level unit and joint force enabler, assigned to the Indo-Pacific, the 1MDTF plays a vital role in synchronizing long-range precision fires layered with long-range precision effects to create multiple dilemmas and neutralize adversary anti-access and area denial networks. The 1MDTF’s proven innovation, agility and lethality have led the Army to direct five full MDTFs in strategically significant locations worldwide.

By CPT Ryan DeBooy

Posted in Army, Fires, Forces Focus, Guest Post | Comments Off on US Army’s Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon Battery Debuts in Resolute Hunter Exercise

MATBOCK Monday: Aceso Plasma

Monday, July 22nd, 2024

Aceso Plasma is a subsidiary under MATBOCK. Aceso is the greek god of healing and when you see this device you will understand why the team at MATBOCK named it Aceso.

We have developed a patented technology to deliver high concentrations of dry, low-temperature Reactive Oxygen Species (aka oxygen plasma) with no harmful bi-products such as ozone or UV light. The potential therapeutic effects of Oxygen Plasma have long been known and have been widely published, but existing vendors have struggled to achieve high concentrations of plasma (efficacy) as well as low temperature and low to no harmful byproducts (safety).

Here is a brief video on how it works:

Recent independent research has validated that Aceso Cold Plasma (ACP) is uniquely effective at killing viruses and bacteria in bench and animal models and is safe to both patients and users. ACP uses a mode of action that precludes development of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic organisms.

While initially applied to hemostasis, the company has pivoted to apply the technology to the much larger wound healing (trauma, general, surgical, burn, and chronic) and non-medical decontamination markets. The domestic Total Available Markets are $700b and $200b per year, respectively.

ACP may be deployed in many form factors, including a hand-held, portable, battery-powered medical device; a closed decontamination chamber; several forms of air purifiers; and others. Some use cases within our target markets – including some aspects of decontaminating military equipment – represent business problems with no current solutions.

If you have any more questions about Aceso, please contact Zach Steinbock or Sean Matson of MATBOCK.

www.acesoplasma.com/pages/contact-us

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Medical | 5 Comments »

USecAF, CMSAF Visit F.E. Warren, Emphasize Essential Role of Ground-Based Nuclear Force

Monday, July 22nd, 2024

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —

Under Secretary of the Air Force Melissa Dalton, Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David Flosi, and several other senior leaders visited F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming, July 1-2.

The group was immersed with Airmen from 20th Air Force and the 90th Missile Wing to discuss nuclear modernization and better understand the vital role of the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile force.

Four-hundred ICBMs form the most responsive leg of the nation’s nuclear triad alongside bomber and submarine-launched nuclear weapons. The geographically dispersed basing of the ICBM force, in addition to the range and speed in which it can be employed, complicates potential adversaries’ decision calculus.

“The ground leg of the triad is essential,” Dalton emphasized. “Its responsiveness deters potential threats by signaling that any attack on the U.S. would be impractical, self-defeating and met with severe consequences.”

During the trip, all leaders agreed that while the current weapon system is reliable for now, the Air Force must prioritize a replacement to ensure effectiveness and credibility well into the future.

“Our Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles are the most responsive leg of our nation’s nuclear triad. It requires sustained and fully funded investments,” Flosi added. “Without these resources, we risk leaving ourselves vulnerable to 21st century threats. We must continue to prioritize these investments in order to ensure our military remains the best in the world.”

The Air Force’s fleet of ICBMs have remained on around-the-clock alert since 1959 with the last major recapitalization occurring in the 1980s. The current Minuteman III missiles and 450 launch facilities are set to be replaced by the increasingly accurate, secure and reliable Sentinel program.

While the Sentinel program is one of the largest and most complex programs the Air Force has ever undertaken, it will drastically improve the overall effectiveness of the nuclear triad to counter current and future strategic risks.

“Modernizing the ground-based deterrent while sustaining the Minuteman III system is a challenge that demands significant, responsible investment and a holistic approach,” Dalton noted. “In the face of the nuclear modernization by our competitors, it’s imperative to modernize our own force to underwrite our nation’s defense and uphold our extended deterrence commitments to our allies.”

After a mission brief at 20th Air Force headquarters, the group was hosted at Missile Alert Facility A-01 by missileers, defenders and a myriad of Airmen who perform other critical support functions.

First Lts. Connor Tovey and Sydney Kongquee, 319th Missile Squadron missileers, talked through a day in their life during a 24-hour shift. After a lengthy drive to the facility, the pair travels 60-70 feet underground into a capsule where they monitor their assigned launch facilities and wait for an order they hope never comes, though it’s an order they’re determined to execute if necessary.

Maintaining and operating the 15 missile alert facilities and various launch facilities across F.E. Warren’s 9,600 square-mile missile field is a 24-hour, seven-days a week responsibility.

Flosi, who joined the Air Force in 1996 as a nuclear weapons specialist, is vividly familiar with the importance of the job.

“Our Airmen are critical to national security,” Flosi said. “They are on the front lines of deterrence every single day, working tirelessly to ensure our nation is protected from any threat. Dedicated and professional Airmen are what makes our Air Force the best in the world.”

Later, the group toured a launch facility, more commonly referred to as an underground missile silo. The senior leaders witnessed first-hand how a highly skilled, disciplined cadre of maintainers have kept the Minuteman III operational for more than 50 years.

Until the transition to the Sentinel program is made, the Air Force will continue to rely on these maintainers to ensure the Minuteman III remains a reliable and effective deterrent.

“After meeting these Airmen, and learning about their creativity and innovation, I’ve never been more confident in our military’s ability to deter threats to the U.S. and our allies,” Dalton said. “We owe it our Airmen to ensure that we modernize the force.”

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Forces Focus, Guest Post | No Comments »

Petroleum Quality Analysis System-Enhanced | A Critical Enabler for the Army

Sunday, July 21st, 2024

The Army uses the Petroleum Quality Analysis System-Enhanced (PQAS-E) for analyzing and assessing the quality of petroleum products consumed in military operations. The system is typically deployed and operated at echelons below brigade level. It serves as a critical enabling asset for commanders at the tactical level, supporting their decision-making processes related to petroleum. The PQAS-E encompasses a range of advanced apparatuses that can detect impurities and contaminants in petroleum, ensuring only high-quality fuel is used. It also offers the capability to monitor fuel storage conditions, such as temperature and humidity, to prevent degradation and ensure optimal performance.

In 2018, the 590th Quartermaster (QM) Detachment petroleum liaison received official endorsement from the Army Petroleum Center to oversee the inspection of PQAS-E correlation testing within the 18th Airborne Corps. This endorsement granted the 590th QM Detachment the necessary authority and responsibility to conduct thorough inspections and evaluations pertaining to the PQAS-E system, its operators, and its correlation-testing activities.

The primary objective of correlation testing is to verify the results obtained by the PQAS-E and ensure their alignment with established standards. As a petroleum liaison, the 590th QM Detachment plays a critical role in facilitating effective communication and coordination between the Army Petroleum Center, U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command, U.S. Army Forces Command, and 18th Airborne Corps units. They provide technical expertise, guidance, and support to ensure accurate and efficient correlation testing of the PQAS-E.

Through many years of correlation inspections, the 590th QM Detachment has found the PQAS-E to be a critical asset for the Army. The system enhances operational readiness by ensuring military equipment receives optimal-quality fuel, thereby maximizing performance and minimizing the risk of equipment malfunctions. This leads to increased combat efficiency and mission success. The PQAS-E also reduces maintenance costs by preventing fuel-related issues that can lead to engine failures, equipment damage, and increased downtime. By eliminating the use of degraded or contaminated fuel, the PQAS-E significantly extends the lifespan of military assets, saving valuable resources.

Issues and Recommendations

The PQAS-E system, while highly advanced, faces certain apparatus issues that can impact its effectiveness. Specifically, the apparatuses that commonly experience failures are the Jet Fuel Thermal Oxidation Tester, the viscometer, the analytical balance scale, the 25kW generator, and the environmental control unit. Although the Army is currently investing in research and development efforts to improve the design and durability of apparatuses, the following recommendations may mitigate some of the common challenges with them.

Regular and proactive maintenance schedules should be established for all apparatuses in the PQAS-E. This includes routine inspection, cleaning, and calibration to identify and address any potential issues before they lead to complete failures. Additionally, implementing redundancy measures by having backup apparatuses readily available can minimize downtime and ensure continuous operation in the event of a failure. Furthermore, comprehensive training programs should be provided to operators and should include knowledge of supply functions, the ordering process, proper handling, and maintenance of the apparatuses.

To achieve the optimal system performance, there must also be engaged leaders at all echelons who can prioritize the readiness of this vital piece of equipment. This includes not only 923A Petroleum Systems Technicians, but also chains of command at the company, battalion, and brigade levels. Essential players such as supply, maintenance, and supply support activity personnel are also critical to the operational readiness rate of the PQAS-E. Key personnel must ensure inoperable equipment is documented and reported on the equipment status report. This information highlights the immediate issue at hand and demonstrates the potential risks and consequences of neglecting the system’s maintenance and repair. This increased visibility promotes a sense of accountability and drives action toward allocating necessary resources, prioritizing repairs, training, and ensuring the operational readiness of the system.

During deployment, it is crucial to have personnel who are knowledgeable about the supply chain and who can efficiently manage the inventory of spare parts and apparatuses. These personnel should be well-versed in the ordering process for replacements and repairs. Operators with a comprehensive understanding of supply functions can anticipate and plan for potential apparatus failures, ensuring non-mission-capable apparatuses are swiftly addressed and minimizing system downtime. By implementing these measures, the PQAS-E system can effectively overcome its apparatus issues and maintain its accuracy and reliability in analyzing fuel quality.

The deployment/redeployment of the system also presents a challenge related to certifications/shipping methods that should be carefully considered. One significant issue is ensuring the system is certified and compliant with transportation regulations and safety standards. This includes obtaining the necessary certifications and documentation to transport the apparatuses, fuel samples, and associated equipment safely and legally. The apparatuses and fuel samples require specialized packaging and handling to ensure their integrity and functionality upon arrival at the deployment location.

Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to delays, logistical complications, and potential legal issues. In the current operating environment, units must deploy with their PQAS-E labs. Effective planning is critical to the successful deployment of this system.

Conclusion

The PQAS-E, with its advanced apparatuses and capabilities, serves as a critical asset for the Army. By ensuring the use of high-quality fuel, the PQAS-E enhances operational readiness, reduces maintenance costs, and extends the lifespan of military assets. However, overcoming the current issues associated with the system’s apparatus is crucial for large-scale combat operations. With continuous improvement efforts and investment in research and development, the PQAS-E will continue serving as a key enabler for the Army, ensuring reliable fuel-quality analysis and supporting mission success.

——————–

Staff Sgt. Shanice Walker is a 92F Petroleum Supply Specialist currently assigned to the 590th Quartermaster Detachment petroleum liaison at Fort Stewart, Georgia, where she serves as a petroleum surveillance NCO. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in information technology from American Military University, West Virginia, and is a graduate of the Advanced Leader Course, the Joint Petroleum Course, and the Defense Logistics Agency Energy Supply Chain Course.

——————–

This article was published in the Summer 2024 issue of Army Sustainment.

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Sustainment | No Comments »

Naval Special Warfare, Submarine Squadron 11 Display Fleet Lethality

Saturday, July 20th, 2024

PACIFIC OCEAN — West Coast-based Naval Special Warfare (NSW) operators participated in fleet interoperability training off the coast of Southern California June 24, focusing on increasing warfighting capabilities in the maritime domain.

The training involved aircraft from Commander, U.S. Naval Air Forces and the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Greeneville (SSN 772), assigned to Commander Submarine Squadron 11 (CSS-11).

“This training opportunity provided the submarine warfighters aboard USS Greeneville the opportunity to practice a unique capability,” said Capt. Kenneth Douglas, Commander, Submarine Squadron 11. “Expanding joint interoperability capabilities effectively demonstrates our asymmetric advantage on and under the world’s oceans and I look forward to continued training events with our Naval Special Warfare operators.”

During the training, Naval Special Warfare (NSW) operators performed a military freefall and conducted an airborne drop of combat rubber raiding crafts (CRRC) off the coast of Southern California. Following this, the NSW operators rendezvoused with Greeneville at a designated location before returning to shore.

“Undertaking an operation of this caliber highlights the indispensable role that NSW and the submarine force play within the joint force,” said Capt. Blake L. Chaney, Commander, Naval Special Warfare Group 1. “By synchronizing our operations, activities and investments, we not only bolster fleet lethality but also provide substantial value in securing access to either denied or contested areas.”

Engaging in ongoing training with Naval Special Warfare and Commander Submarine Squadron 11, ensures that the U.S. Naval force is well-prepared to tackle the challenges of a dynamic and competitive maritime environment.

CSS-11 is home to five Los Angeles-class fast attack submarines, which are capable of supporting various missions, including: anti-submarine warfare; anti-ship warfare; strike warfare; and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.

Naval Special Warfare is the nation’s elite maritime special operations force, uniquely positioned to extend the Fleet’s reach and gain and maintain access for the Joint Force in competition and conflict.

By Petty Officer 1st Class Alex Perlman And Petty Officer 1st Class Alex Smedegard

Posted in Guest Post, Maritime, Navy, Parachuting, SOF | No Comments »

FirstSpear Friday Focus: MIL, LEO & First Responders Streamline Website w/ iD.me

Friday, July 19th, 2024

FirstSpear continues to offer Military, Law Enforcement & First Responders discounts and has directly integrated with iD.me on the website to make it faster, more secure and easy for members to be verified. FirstSpear takes great pride in continue to offer the industry’s most innovative, premium products at an exclusive price.

To get your discount, either create an account on www.first-spear.com and it will prompt users to go through the steps to input their iD.me credentials, or simply shop on First-Spear.com and you will be prompted in the check out as a reminder to enter credentials to verify.

For over 13 years, FirstSpear develops hundreds of innovative products every year for the most elite military and law enforcement professionals in the world. For more information, check out www.first-spear.com.

For government GPC purchases please email govsales@first-spear.com. If you would like information on becoming a FirstSpear equipment dealer, please email dealerrequest@first-spear.com.

Posted in Advertiser, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post, LE, Veterans | No Comments »

Virtual Symposium Develops Air Commandos to Maximize Potential

Friday, July 19th, 2024

Hurlburt Field, Fl —

Participants across Air Force Special Operations Command took part in the Commando LEAD Symposium on July 15 virtually to learn techniques to continue to build the force we need.

“We have a duty as leaders to ensure anyone who chooses to serve has an environment to thrive,” said Maj. Gen. Rebecca Sonkiss, Deputy Commander of Air Force Special Operations Command. “We are talking about building strong teams, a fabric of unique and different thoughts, with trust, that are ready to deliver the full capabilities of our nation with the lethality we need to win,” she added.

The Commando LEAD Symposium had an array of speakers, which all focused on the need to maximize an Air Commandos potential and to sharpen their mindset.

“The Air Commando Mindset is a bias for action, setting really high standards, and holding each other accountable. It is this mindset that actually earns us the title Air Commando and comes from a rich heritage,” said CMSgt Anthony Green, Command Chief Master Sergeant at Air Force Special Operations Command. “We must have all three things and remain adaptive. We cannot allow ourselves to stagnate because of the risk of failure. Know the mission, seek our purpose, and unleash that out the box thinking that AFSOC has always been known for,” he added.

At the virtual symposium, participants were provided insights on how to cultivate a professional workplace, nurture workforce talent, and promote an inclusive environment.

“We are not a social justice organization, we are a combat capability generating and warfighting organization, but we can still find ways to take care of each other. And so, to that end, Air Force capabilities and warfighting skills are enhanced by the diversity of its personnel,” said SMSgt Remy Voisin, Senior Enlisted Advisor for the 1st Special Operation Wing Commanders Action Group.

Topics at the event included “Air Commando Mindset,” “Diversity as an Operational Necessity,” and “Overcoming Systemic Barrier’s.”

When we foster an environment of inclusion, our force becomes a more engaged, effective, and lethal.

“Bringing broad spectrum of teammates to the table so they perform to the best they can stands the test of time. Our expectation is everyone is a leader, and everyone needs to be leading in this space,” said Sonkiss.

LEAD stands for Leadership, Equity, Advocacy and Development.

Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, Profession of Arms, SOF, Training | 1 Comment »