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Additional Details on the Royal Marines MCX Carbines and a Statement from Edgar Brothers

Monday, March 10th, 2025

Over the weekend, the Royal Navy released a statement about the SIG SAUER MCX LT carbines they procured under Project HAY, named after renowned WWII Royal Marine Ace fighter pilot Commander Ronnie Hay, DSO, DSC & Bar.

I’m going to share a few things I know about the program. The actual decision was made almost two years ago, with delivery well over a year ago. It is my understanding that the MCX carbines were purchased for maritime operations as part of the Royal Marines Future Commando Force operational concept with a renewed emphasis on amphibious raids and a fast-paced modernization of weapons and equipment.

The MCX carbines were procured chambered in 5.56 NATO and 300 BLK (7.62×35 for our European readers). However, it’s important to point out, how modular the system they purchased is. Due to the availability of upper receivers in 7.62×39, the Royal Marines could easily adapt if the need arises to add that caliber such as during operations with allied forces still using that caliber. Likewise, the Reduced Signature Assault Rifle (RSAR) configuration is also available and has been procured by USSOCOM as well as other friendly nations, in all three calibers.

As you can imagine, it can be a challenge operationally when you have one common platform and magazine that accepts two different cartridges. The Royal Marines have overcome this by purchasing 300 BLK carbines in all Black livery and 5.56 NATO chambered carbines featuring FDE accessories.

Every rifle comes fully equipped with suppressor, and optic (including magnifier).

The firm which served as the system integrator for the procurement, Edgar Brothers, has provided us with a statement which provides even more details:

Royal Marines Adopt SIG SAUER MCX Under Project HAY

The Royal Marines Commando Force has taken another significant step forward in its ongoing modernization with the adoption of the SIG SAUER MCX rifle under Project HAY, a program named after Ronald “Ronnie” Cuthbert Hay DSO, DSC and Bar, the only Royal Marines fighter ace. This follows the introduction of the Knights Armament Stoner 1 (KS-1) under Project COMACCHIO, which began replacing the SA80 as the primary weapon for the Royal Marines Littoral Response Groups under Project HUNTER (named in honor of Corporal Thomas Hunter, who was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery at Lake Comacchio). However, Project HAY focuses on specialized roles, replacing the venerable L119A1/A2 rifles produced by Colt Canada and ensures force-wide transition to AR controls.

The Legacy of Ronnie Hay

Ronnie Hay, a legendary fighter pilot and Royal Marine during World War II, epitomized the adaptability and daring that today’s Commando Force strives to embody. As the only Royal Marines fighter ace, Hay flew numerous combat missions in the Fleet Air Arm, earning multiple decorations for his aerial victories and ground-attack missions. His distinguished service included pivotal roles in the Dunkirk evacuation, the Battle of Britain, the Mediterranean campaign during Operation Torch, and the Far East, where he led one of the Fleet Air Arm’s largest operations and supported the assault on Okinawa. Hay’s remarkable legacy now inspires the cutting-edge capabilities delivered through Project HAY, as the Royal Marines continue to redefine their role as an advanced, multi-domain force.

Project HAY and the SIG SAUER MCX

The SIG SAUER MCX brings a level of versatility well-suited to the unique requirements of the Royal Marines’ maritime special operations-capable unit. This unit specializes in tasks such as ship interdiction, training partner forces overseas, and close-quarters engagements during boarding operations. Unlike Project COMACCHIO’s KS-1, designed for general issue, the MCX is tailored for specialized operations. Its design allows operators to switch between different configurations, making it highly adaptable to varying mission profiles. This capability is particularly valuable for training teams operating overseas, where non-standard ammunition may be the only viable option.

Compact and Mission-Ready

The shorter barrel lengths make the MCX ideal for confined spaces, such as ship interiors and urban environments. Both systems can be configured for suppressed or unsuppressed use, offering flexibility during sensitive operations where noise in confined spaces can produce challenges. It is understood that other variations made possible by the MCX’s flexibility are being considered and trialled. Other natures may be used that are more suitable for close-quarter battle or working with partner forces.

A further feature is the addition of RailScales’ custom Monomount, which raises optic height to improve compatibility with night vision goggles (NVGs). This feature enhances the weapon’s effectiveness in low-light environments while supporting ergonomic aiming. The Monomount also facilitates the top mounting of the LLM Mk3 laser, further enhancing the MCX’s versatility. Additionally, the MCX’s extensive stock options enable seamless integration with protective gear, including helmets with mandible attachments if required.

Training and Simulation

To ensure safe, realistic training, the MCX is equipped with dedicated Simunition kits for force-on-force exercises and blank-firing adapters for practice. These tools allow boarding teams to train under realistic conditions without compromising safety. The design of the MCX also ensures that operators can train extensively on one platform before transitioning to another for specific missions.

Lessons Learned from the HUNTER Programme

The Royal Marines’ evaluation of the MCX benefited greatly from Project HUNTER, which enabled extensive small arms experimentation. This initiative allowed units to field-test systems and provide valuable feedback on their performance. For Project HAY, the results of these trials were instrumental in shaping the final configurations of the fielded MCX.

A Purpose-Built Tool for the Future Force

The adoption of the SIG SAUER MCX marks another milestone in the Royal Marines’ transformation into a special operations-capable maritime task group. The MCX, with its design and adaptability, gives the Commando Force a purpose-built tool for modern operations. Whether conducting training missions in remote regions or executing high-stakes maritime interdictions, the weapon’s compact size, suppressor compatibility, and flexibility make it an invaluable asset for deployed teams.

Mike Newman, Director PMD at Edgar Brothers, commented on the collaboration: “It was a great effort between ourselves, UK Commando Force, and SIG SAUER to provide the MCX and associated ancillaries. Edgar Brothers are hugely proud to provide another weapon system into the Royal Marines arsenal.”

Ron Cohen, President and CEO of SIG SAUER, Inc., added: “SIG SAUER is proud that our rifles, suppressors, and optics are entering service with the UK Royal Marines. This system of cutting-edge products is designed for proven performance and reliability to withstand the rigors of the battlefield. We are honored to support the Royal Marines with our products and their commitment to mission readiness.”

Under Project HAY, the Royal Marines continue to honor the legacy of Ronnie Hay by equipping specialist units with the tools to thrive in all domains, just like Ronnie Hay.

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, Guest Post, weapons | 1 Comment »

Air Force Senior Leaders Discuss Intelligence Driving Unified Action

Monday, March 10th, 2025

AURORA, Colo. (AFNS) —

Air Force Lt. Gen. Leah Lauderback, deputy chief of Staff, ISR and Cyber Effects Operations, and Space Force Maj. Gen. Gregory Gagnon, deputy chief of Space Operations for Intelligence, joined a panel discussion with Mr. Greg Ryckman, Defense Intelligence Agency deputy director for Global Integration, during the Air and Space Force Association Warfare Symposium in Aurora, Colorado, March 4.

The two senior Department of the Air Force intelligence officers joined the stage alongside Ryckman to discuss the current intelligence environment, monitoring threats and on-going collaboration between combat support agencies.

To begin the panel, Gagnon gave context for why America’s need for intelligence is growing. He stated there has been significant changes throughout the world in the past 10 years, including the drastically decreasing gap between the U.S. and Chinese economies.

“In the past 10 years, the Chinese economy has grown 78%,” Gagnon stated. “Let me tell you why this is important… what makes you rich can make you strong.”

Gagnon explained the efforts China has taken to increase its defense budget and noted they’ve increased on-orbit assets by 650% since the U.S. Space Force’s creation in 2019.

Lauderback spoke about the importance of unifying the Department of Defense’s intel capabilities with combat support agencies such as the DIA. She explained senior intelligence leaders are working to get intel information to as many levels throughout the DoD as possible.

We want to be able to provide the intentions of the adversary,” Lauderback said. “We want to provide their capabilities, and we want to give [commanders and decision-makers] confidence in the intelligence so that [they] can make the best decisions in a high-end conflict.”

With DIA acting as the lead to unify intelligence information, Gagnon said they are putting the “‘common’ back in the common intel picture,” emphasizing its importance for global synchronization.

“Our design in the Department of Defense is to deliver unified action,” Gagnon said. “That requires a unified set of understanding about where the enemy is and what their intent is, so this is a very important initiative.”

-Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

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Blue Force Gear Presents: Between 2 Targets – Jared Reston

Saturday, March 8th, 2025

Former SWAT Officer Jared Reston Shares Life-Changing Experience

In this video Chris Sizelove and Jared Reston sit down for a conversation about gunfighting, mindset, and winning. Jared is a seasoned law enforcement veteran with over 20 years of service at Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. Since retiring in 2020, he now travels the nation teaching firearms and tactics to prepared citizens, military personnel, and law enforcement agencies.

Jared’s perspective was forever altered in 2008 during what began as a routine shoplifter pursuit at Jacksonville’s Regency Square Mall. The confrontation turned deadly when the suspect produced a Glock 21 and shot Jared seven times. Despite taking rounds to his jaw, body armor, thigh, and other areas, Jared maintained his composure and returned fire effectively, neutralizing the threat. This watershed moment has radically impacted Jared’s life and inspired him to share training techniques with others through his training company, Reston Group Training.

Since this event, Jared has been an advocate for mindset. His training philosophy is clear: the goal in a lethal confrontation isn’t merely to survive—it’s to win. “I hate the term surviving,” he explains. “To me, survival is what you do if you crash your car in the woods and drink your pee and eat berries… a gunfight is a high-stakes game, and games have to have a winner.”

The conversation delves into the importance of shot placement and the resilience of the human body during traumatic injuries. Jared notes that while the human body is a large target, the areas that will immediately stop a threat are surprisingly small. Disrupting brain or heart function is about the only way to neutralize a threat.

Chris and Jared agree that proper mindset, weapon manipulation skills, and marksmanship are critical components in prevailing in armed confrontations. The function of training is to make fundamental skills so automatic that your mental bandwidth can be dedicated entirely to solving the immediate problem rather than worrying about manipulating your weapon.

Reston Group Training offers numerous open enrollment classes for civilians and professionals. Jared can also be found in New Hampshire at Ridgeline Defense, which he describes as “the Disney World of the shooting realm.” Even though Ridgeline is known for precision long-range shooting they now offer a wide variety of training including CQB.

For more information on Jared, visit his website.

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Presidio of Monterey Soldiers Exchange AMC Shoulder Sleeve Insignia for ICoE SSI

Saturday, March 8th, 2025

PRESIDIO OF MONTEREY, Calif. (Mar. 4, 2025) – Soldiers assigned to the Presidio of Monterey recently marked the transition from the U.S. Army Materiel Command to the U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence during a traditional patching ceremony in the PoM headquarters building. The five soldiers exchanged their AMC shoulder sleeve insignia patches for the ICoE patch, signifying their integration into the ICoE command.

The re-patching was prompted by the January 2025 EXORD 123-25 by the Secretary of the Army, “Update to U.S. Army Installation Management Structure.” This alignment reduces bureaucracy, clarifies responsibilities, and unifies efforts under a single command.

Maj. Gen. Richard Appelhans, commanding general of ICoE and Fort Huachuca, addressed soldiers at both locations via video teleconference from Arizona. “More than just symbolic, this patching is about creating unity of command and unity of effort,” Appelhans said. “Despite the many challenges, you accomplish the mission daily, delivering first-class service and support to your communities.”

Col. Dan Artino, Presidio of Monterey garrison commander, said the ceremony marks a significant milestone. “This transition reaffirms our commitment to the warfighters, families, and civilians who train, work, and live on our installation,” Artino said.

The alignment, Artino said, will integrate ICoE’s mission priorities with PoM’s service integration. “This move strengthens our relationship with our senior commander, Maj. Gen. Appelhans, and allows for even greater collaboration and support,” he said.

With the transition complete, the Presidio of Monterey stands ready to support the broader transformation, modernization and readiness of the U.S. Army.

By Jennifer Leggett

Posted in Army, Forces Focus, Guest Post | Comments Off on Presidio of Monterey Soldiers Exchange AMC Shoulder Sleeve Insignia for ICoE SSI

New Online Emergency Trauma Care Training from CTOMS Academy

Friday, March 7th, 2025

CTOMS™ is please to announce the release of three new online training bundles for civilians. These course bundles are designed to help prepare citizens to respond to trauma casualties in emergency or crisis situations. They include detailed courses on scene safety, the assessment and treatment of major trauma casualties, emergency bleeding control, airway and respiratory management, and hypothermia management.

Like all CTOMS™ Academy e-training, these bundles make use of video demonstrations, lab footage, and 3-D animations for enhanced student engagement and understanding.

The Wilderness Responder, Industrial Responder, and Prepared Citizen Responder bundles are available now from CTOMS™ Academy.

Use code SSD25 for 25% off al CTOMS Academy online training.

Visit CTOMS™ for more information.

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Medical, Training | 1 Comment »

SIG SAUER Special Weapons Group Introduces the RSAR999 USSOCOM MCX-RATTLER LT

Friday, March 7th, 2025

In September of 2022, SIG SAUER won a contract that was five years in the making with USSOCOM to deliver a maximum firepower, concealable package that could meet the needs and demands of the SOCOM unit. This package included a configuration of the SIG SAUER MCX-RATTLER LT in 5.56 NATO with a 7.62×39 barrel and SLH Suppressors.

As this product is offered with indefinite-delivery, it will now be made available in two different configurations in the SWG Program. Both a pistol and SBR version in 7.75″ 5.56 will be offered as the RSAR999 build. This will include the limited-run SWG Certificate of Authenticity, Pelican® case, Magpul® Dual QD Sling, SIG Iron Sights, optional low profile brass deflector, and Single Point Adapter and the product configuration of the customer.*

RSAR999 USSOCOM MCX-RATTLER LT: SBR

RSAR999 USSOCOM MCX-RATTLER LT: PISTOL

As with all products in the SWG program they are built and inspected to the needs of the professional customer and come backed by SIG SAUER’s Infinite Guarantee.

Own a piece of history with this one-time available rifle configuration offered as RSAR999 in the SWG program from SIG SAUER!

*Note: Pistol configuration will include a brace, SBR comes with the RSAR999 configured stock. Rifle/Pistol is sold as the firearm only and does not include the suppressors or 7.62×39 barrel as in the actual contract configuration. All configurations are semi-automatic.

www.sigsauer.com/swg-rsar-mcx-rattler-ussocom

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FirstSpear Friday Focus: New FS Crew Shorts 6”

Friday, March 7th, 2025

The FirstSpear CREW SHORTS 6” are designed to keep you comfortable and ready for action, no matter the setting.

Featuring a tailored 6-inch inseam, these shorts strike the perfect balance between performance and style. Whether you’re training at the range or relaxing at home, the Crew Shorts deliver reliable comfort and versatility.

Characterized by their rugged durability, these shorts are built to withstand demanding conditions while maintaining a polished appearance.

Crafted in the USA, the Crew Shorts reflect FirstSpear’s dedication to quality craftsmanship and innovation. These shorts are thoughtfully crafted to meet the needs of active individuals who require both performance and comfort. They seamlessly transition from fieldwork to off-duty hours, making them an essential addition to any wardrobe.

With a focus on functional design, the Crew Shorts offer freedom of movement and long-lasting wear. The durable construction ensures they hold up over time, even in tough environments.

Whether you’re on the job or off the clock, the CREW SHORTS are built to perform and designed to impress.

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.

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post | 4 Comments »

Air Force Designates Two Mission Design Series for Collaborative Combat Aircraft

Friday, March 7th, 2025

WASHINGTON (AFNS) —

The U.S. Air Force announced the designation of two Mission Design Series within its Collaborative Combat Aircraft program today: the YFQ-42A (General Atomics) and the YFQ-44A (Anduril).

Representing the first in a new generation of uncrewed fighter aircraft, both will be crucial in securing air superiority for the Joint Force in future conflicts. These aircraft are designed to leverage autonomous capabilities and crewed-uncrewed teaming to defeat enemy threats in contested environments.

Concepts of the uncrewed fighter aircraft YFQ-42A (bottom) and the YFQ-44A are pictured in artwork. The aircraft are designed to leverage autonomous capabilities and crewed-uncrewed teaming to defeat enemy threats in contested environments. (U.S. Air Force artwork courtesy of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. and Anduril Industries)

“Now we have two prototypes of Collaborative Combat Aircraft,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin. “They were only on paper less than a couple of years ago, and they are going to be ready to fly this summer.”

The MDS designation provides a standardized framework for identifying and classifying these aircraft:

• Status Prefix: Y- Prototype (The “Y” will be dropped upon entering production)

• Basic Mission: F – Fighter

• Vehicle Type: Q – Unmanned Aircraft

• Design Number: 42 / 44

• Series: A – 1st Version

“For the first time in our history, we have a fighter designation in the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A,” Allvin added. “It may be just symbolic, but we are telling the world we are leaning into a new chapter of aerial warfare. It means collaborative combat aircraft, it means human-machine teaming. We are developing those capabilities thinking, ‘mission first.’”

The Air Force will continue to work closely with its industry partners to mature the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A prototypes through rigorous testing and evaluation. The insights gained from these efforts will be crucial in shaping the future of the CCA program and solidifying the Air Force’s position at the forefront of airpower innovation.

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

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