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GA-ASI Employees and Programs Win Seven AIAA Awards

Friday, June 14th, 2024

AIAA San Diego Section Awards Honor GA-ASI’s Outstanding AchievementsSAN DIEGO – 11 June 2024 – Employees and teams from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) were honored with seven awards from the San Diego Section of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) in the categories of lifetime achievement, outstanding aerospace engineering and engineering management, and community support at both the company and individual levels. The awards were presented at an event hosted by AIAA on June 1, 2024. GA-ASI is a leading employer in the San Diego area and manufacturer of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems solutions.

“I thank AIAA for honoring our relentless pursuit of innovation in aviation, as well as our excellence in program execution and community outreach,” said GA-ASI Engineering Vice President Dee Wilson. “Recognizing the pivotal role that our unmanned systems play in safeguarding national security; these accolades highlight the tremendous dedication and talent of our GA-ASI team.”

AIAA award winners from GA-ASI:

Senior Test Pilot Timothy Just was awarded for Lifetime Achievement. Tim’s career spans over four decades, during which he made unparalleled contributions to aviation and aerospace, including as a professional test pilot where he’s demonstrated exceptional airmanship and proficiency in flying in excess of 200 aircraft types. For GA-ASI, he has flown more than 20 first flights of prototype UAS, and he uses his extensive experience to provide critical input and feedback during the design and early test phases to help ensure that every first flight of a prototype landed successfully. Tim was also one of the first pilots to deploy overseas with the Gnat and Predator®series aircraft, developing tactics and procedures that have contributed to the revolutionary impact UAS have had in aviation. Tim is a three-time member of the United States Unlimited Aerobatic Team and has flown at many air shows, igniting an interest in aviation for an untold number of young men and women.

Owen Nucci, senior program manager for GA-ASI’s Leasing Services, won for Outstanding Contribution to Aerospace Management. Owen led the execution of GA-ASI’s Company Owned, Company Operated (COCO) lease contract to operate MQ-9B SeaGuardian® UAS for the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Through Owen’s leadership, these contracts have broken new ground for UAS operations by flying under a civil authority, under International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Instrument Flight Rules, and in weather conditions that would have grounded previous generation UAS.

GA-ASI’s Off-Board Sensing Station (OBSS) Development Team, led by Program Manager John Malaney, won for Outstanding Achievement by an Aerospace Organization. The team was responsible for the first flight of the XQ-67A on February 28, 2024. With the flight of XQ-67A, funded by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), GA-ASI validated the “genus/species” concept first developed with AFRL as part of the Low-Cost Attritable Aircraft Platform Sharing (LCAAPS) program focused on building several aircraft variants from a common core chassis. The success of the OBSS Development Team culminated in a new contract award for GA-ASI from the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center to build production representative flight test articles of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft.

Adam Cooperberg won for Outstanding Contribution to Aerospace Engineering. Adam is the lead engineer of the MQ-9B SeaGuardian platform for GA-ASI, spearheading both development and sustainment activities since the creation of the first SeaGuardian. Adam was central in SeaGuardian’s successful deployment for several customer exercises in 2023, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.

Jay Larkins won for Outstanding Contribution to the Community. Jay is a program manager for the Fleet Deployment Services team at GA-ASI, where he demonstrates unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership skills. In his off hours, Jay operates a pro bono law office where he works to provide legal assistance to low-income and indigent individuals in San Diego.

The General Atomics Sciences Education Foundation was awarded for its Outstanding Corporate Contribution to the Community. The Foundation, led by Lawrence Woolf, has catalyzed and supported employees participating in over 1,100 educational outreach activities and has provided over $250,000 in materials and equipment for schools and programs; granted more than $1 million in support to over 70 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) non-profits; and coordinated remote tutoring of at-risk first graders by more than 135 employees. The Foundation also supports major public outreach events, provides resources for employees who engage in outreach, and has developed many educational resources that are posted on the Foundation web site.

Finally, James McPherson won for Outstanding Contribution to the AIAA San Diego Section. James is GA-ASI’s program manager for U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) programs, and in 2023, James demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership in advancing the goals of the AIAA within the San Diego community and within GA-ASI. This award follows an AIAA award that James won last year when he was awarded for Outstanding Contributions to Aerospace Management.

Posted in Aviation, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on GA-ASI Employees and Programs Win Seven AIAA Awards

GiantMouse GMF1-XL Wins Best Imported Fixed Blade

Thursday, June 13th, 2024

East Lansing, Michigan, June 12, 2024 – GiantMouse is proud to announce that the new GMF1-XL, which launched last Thursday, has been awarded the prestigious “Imported Fixed Blade of the Year” at the 2024 Atlanta Blade Show. This accolade marks yet another significant achievement for GiantMouse, following our GMF4 taking “Best Factory Fixed Blade” at Blade Show West last October, and the GMX taking “Overall Knife of the Year” last June in Atlanta.

Building on the legacy of our beloved GMF1, the GMF1-XL is the much-anticipated larger version that you have eagerly awaited. The GMF1-XL offers the same exceptional ergonomics and utility as its predecessor but steps things up with increased size and enhanced features, making it a formidable companion for all your everyday carry needs. This model maintains the sleek, compact nature of the original GMF1, but boasts a larger blade and handle, as well as handle scales in either brass or green canvas Micarta for improved functionality and grip. The lanyard hole at the back and a strategically placed front hole not only provide a better grip but also add to the knife’s artistic appeal that GiantMouse is known for. For those who prefer a skeletonized handle, the scales can be easily removed, allowing paracord to be wrapped through the holes for a custom, tactical look.

The entire GiantMouse team extends a heartfelt thanks to our supporters and Italian manufacturers for their unwavering commitment to excellence. “This award is a testament to the passion and craftsmanship that goes into every GiantMouse knife,” said GiantMouse CEO Jim Wirth. ”We are deeply honored to be recognized once again and remain committed to delivering top-quality products that our customers can rely on.”

The recognition of the GMF1-XL as the Imported Fixed Blade of the Year at the 2024 Blade Show is a proud moment for GiantMouse and an affirmation of our pursuit of innovation and quality. We are grateful for the continued support from our community and look forward to bringing more exceptional knives to your pockets.

For pricing and full specifications on each variant, visit www.giantmouse.com/collections/fixed-blade-knives/gmf1-xl

Posted in Blade Show, Industry, Knives, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Galvion’s European Production Hub in Poland Approaches Completion

Thursday, June 13th, 2024

Galvion, a world leader in innovative head protection systems and power and data management solutions, has achieved a significant milestone in the establishment of their European Production Hub in Poland, as they advance towards completion. The facility represents a major investment aimed at strengthening Galvion’s regional support and service strategy, and this week achieved the key project milestone of permitting and inspection readiness, a critical step on the journey to officially opening and beginning operations within the coming months.

First announced in September 2023 and driven by Galvion’s ongoing successes in NATO and the wider European regions, the new facility is based in Gdansk. This announcement coincides with Eurosatory taking place 17-21 June 2023 where Galvion are exhibiting on booth 5A-G385.

Following recent consecutive program awards from key European nations, including a NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) framework contract, Galvion is expecting to have close to 1.5 million helmets in service across NATO and other European countries by 2025. Galvion’s new Gdansk facility will initially house helmet finishing and assembly capabilities, in addition to critical support, maintenance, refurbishment, upgrade and training operations. The Gdansk location was chosen following a comprehensive search and assessment period, and the functionality of the facility is expected to expand through 2026 and beyond in order to support Galvion’s full product and solutions portfolio. Galvion’s existing core facilities in Canada and the USA will continue to design, develop, manufacture and service domestic, regional, and key global programs, customers, production and support requirements.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion said: “Establishing a new facility in a country across the globe is a major undertaking and we are pleased with the progress that has been made since announcing this endeavour in September of last year. Permitting and inspection readiness represent a critical milestone, and we continue building our Polish team in order to bring the facility and offices to life.

Being able to both produce and support helmet systems in Europe is a big step for us and for our NATO customers, as we continue to receive orders through the NSPA framework contract.” He added: “Our emphasis on responsible regional operations helps to sharpen the focus of our manufacturing and support facilities around the world to enhance delivery, responsiveness, and supportability for all of our customers.”

Posted in Helmets, Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Galvion’s European Production Hub in Poland Approaches Completion

Qore Performance and Guardian Warrior Solutions Announce ICEVENTS/Bang Hanger Collaboration

Wednesday, June 12th, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | 12 June 2024

Knoxville, TN – Qore Performance®, the innovator in PPE thermoregulation tools, is proud to announce another in a string of strategic distribution partnerships for their red-hot ICEVENTS® Classic Holster Pad with Guardian Warrior Solutions. Known for their innovative Bang Hanger Holster Adapter made from Curv® composite, Guardian Warrior Solutions is now authorized by Qore Performance to combine both products to deliver unmatched comfort and performance for tactical professionals.

ICEVENTS® Classic Holster Pads leverage ICEVENTS®: a proprietary Qore Performance ventilated padding technology to provide superior convective air flow and comfort when wearing the Bang Hanger. This innovative pad eliminates any potential hotspot experienced when wearing the Bang Hanger while dramatically enhancing ventilation, ensuring that operators can perform at their best in the most demanding environments. When pairing ICEVENTS® Classic Holster Pads with Bang Hangers, users experience an unparalleled combination of durability, stability, and comfort.

“Every holster adapter should come with a Qore Performance ICEVENTS® Holster pad, ensuring everyone can experience the comfort and performance benefits they offer;” said Doug Burr who Head of Strategic Partnerships for Qore Performance, “as we continue to expand the reach of our ICEPLATE® and ICEVENTS® thermoregulation technologies, we advance our mission of Building A Superhuman Future for American Security and American Prosperity.”

“The ICEVENTS® Classic Holster Pad is the perfect addition to enhance the comfort level of the Guardian Warrior Solutions Bang Hanger. The ICEVENTS® Classic Holster Pad provides ventilation and decreases friction against fabric, optimizing ease of movement,” remarked Preston Atwood, Founder of Guardian Warrior Solutions, “This combination is an ideal choice for professionals and enthusiasts looking to enhance the comfort of their gear.”

ICEVENTS® Classic Holster Pads are now available for purchase on both the Qore Performance and the Guardian Warrior Solutions websites. For more information, visit www.QorePerformance.com or www.guardianwarriorsolutions.com.

For Partnership Inquiries:

Doug Burr
Head of Strategic Partnerships
Qore Performance, Inc.
416 Troy Circle
Knoxville, TN 37919-6106
P: 865.978.7111

Preston Atwood
Founder
Guardian Warrior Solutions
preston@guardianwarriorsolutions.com
P: 307-278-1185

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Marketing Organization Shift at SIG SAUER

Tuesday, June 11th, 2024

NEWINGTON, N.H., (June 11, 2024) – SIG SAUER is pleased to announce that Robby Johnson has been named as Chief Marketing Officer. Johnson currently serves as Senior Vice President, Commercial & Defense Product Management and will maintain those responsibilities. In his current role, he has been responsible for tremendous cross-functional collaboration by connecting marketing, sales, product management, engineering, and manufacturing with the execution of numerous strategies and initiatives in the commercial and defense markets.

From the left: Robby Johnson, Tom Taylor and Jack Barnes

Johnson will report to SIG SAUER President & CEO, Ron Cohen and will work closely with the former Chief Marketing Officer & Executive Vice President, Commercial Sales, Tom Taylor, who will be assuming a new role in the company as Executive Vice President, Global Brand Development. Johnson will also serve as Senior Vice President, SIG SAUER Academy where he will assume management of the world-renowned SIG SAUER Academy and SIG Experience Center.

“Robby brings a tremendous breadth of experience to the ever-evolving and growing SIG brand,” said Ron Cohen, Chief Executive Officer, SIG SAUER. “Robby served our country as a U.S. Army Ranger, Amry Mountain Warfare School Instructor, and was a competitive shooter and trainer with the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. His 21 years of military service and experience in the industry at Remington, as well as various roles at SIG SAUER puts him in a great position to make a smooth transition into his role leading SIG SAUER Marketing.”

Taylor, who has over 40 years of sales and marketing experience with 20 years collectively at Smith & Wesson, Mossberg, and SIG SAUER, plus 23 years at Coca-Cola and Frito-Lay, will work closely with Johnson for a seamless transition.

Jack Barnes, is Senior Vice President, Commercial Sales and will now report directly to Ron Cohen.

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Press Release | 2 Comments »

Freedom Needs Enablers: Rheinmetall Presents Numerous New Systems, Concepts and Technologies for Defending Freedom at Eurosatory 2024

Tuesday, June 11th, 2024

Rheinmetall will once again be one of the largest exhibitors at the Eurosatory in Paris in 2024, the most important defence industry trade fair on the European continent. From 17 to 21 June 2024, the German technology group will be presenting numerous new systems, products and concepts of all its divisions for the battlefield of the future based on the motto “Freedom needs Enablers”.

There will also be numerous premieres:

Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin will present the new GMARS rocket artillery system on 17 June 2024 at 11.00 a.m.

Also on 17 June 2024 at 4 p.m., a new demonstrator in the field of main battle tanks will be unveiled.

From 17 June 2024, Rheinmetall and its technology partner INERATEC will be presenting their Giga-PtX project vision for a war-ready fuel supply twice a day in the Demonstration Area. On the test track, the Caracal* airborne vehicle will demonstrate its high off-road capability using a synthetic fuel generated from hydrogen, CO2 and electricity. Media representatives will be able to view this demonstration in the Demonstration Area on 16 June 2024.

On 18 June 2024 at 11.00 a.m., Rheinmetall will present its Ermine (Hermelin) tactical small vehicles for the first time, which are characterised by new drive technologies and autonomous capabilities, and can be used both for tactical transport and as a mobile energy source.

Other key topics for Rheinmetall at Eurosatory 2024 include:

Air defence: Highly mobile, modular and scalable ground-based air defence systems are becoming increasingly important as NATO forces refocus on national and alliance defence. Rheinmetall is showcasing for the first time the Skyranger 35 turret on a Leopard 2 chassis as a tactical air defence system. In addition, a Lynx KF41 Skyranger 30 and the Boxer* Skyranger 30 wheeled air defence tank will be on display.

Network Enabled Warfare: As a leading systems integrator, Rheinmetall has all the necessary expertise to connect the various entities on the digitalised battlefield of the future. The Digitalized Brigade concept, including the Gladius 2.0 soldier system and the Tactical Core from our partner company blackned for interconnecting soldiers, platforms, sensors, effectors of combat units, and with new battle management and training applications will be showcased. This approach will be explained in a tangible way using a tank destroyer mission system concept.

Effect: For the first time, Rheinmetall is showing the modular, stabilised Natter weapon station family in action. The company is also showcasing its Remote Controlled Munition, a UGV-based infantry weapon system. Airborne precision loitering munitions (LM) increase the ability of even small units to conduct reconnaissance over the target area, and to engage targets at a distance and with precision. At the Eurosatory, Rheinmetall will be showcasing various Hero LM systems, which the company offers together with its partner UVision. The Dual Eimos 81mm mortar combat system, used by the Spanish Navy and Army, among others, will also be on the Rheinmetall stand.

Protection: Rheinmetall’s comprehensive expertise in protection technologies ranges from customised passive ballistic solutions to state-of-the-art active distance protection systems. At the Eurosatory 2024,

Rheinmetall will be presenting its comprehensive approach concerning protection concepts. This includes the unveiling of ROSY Top Attack, the new version of the tried-and-tested rapid obscurant system for protection against airborne attacks. Rheinmetall is also presenting a complete solution for military ballistic body armour for the first time.

Obstacle warfare: Operational experience from the Ukraine shows that obstacle warfare has regained importance. Rheinmetall is presenting the Keiler Next Generation, an armoured breaching vehicle (ABV) for fast opening of barriers in combat. The Area Defence Weapon, which can be used to protect barriers from being cleared, will also be on display. HX vehicle family: Rheinmetall’s HX vehicle family is characterised by outstanding mobility, versatility and a high, optionally available level of protection. This enables a flexible range of applications. Among the vehicles on display at the Eurosatory are an HX 8×8 with Automated Load Handling System (ALHS) and an HX 8×8 recovery vehicle.

Other innovations at the Eurosatory 2024 include the following:

– A new member of the Lynx KF41 combat vehicle family with 120mm turret;

– the Fuchs Evo with machine cannon turret;

– the Terrastorm, a MAN TGE van upgraded by RMMV and Torsus for military use,

– the Mission Master CXT, the latest member of Rheinmetalls Mission Master family of uncrewed

Ground Systems (UGS);

– the Chiller HVAC system, a new thermal module for combat vehicles;

Rheinmetall will also be showcasing its extensive expertise in almost all capability categories at the Eurosatory 2024. These include weapon and ammunition systems for threat-adequate and scalable effects, innovative and interconnectable sensor technology and topics from the fields of automation and robotics. Exhibits such as the LUNA NG reconnaissance drone and other unmanned aerial systems, military lorries from the TG series and protected containers for mobile medical equipment or command posts round off Rheinmetall’s presence at this year’s Eurosatory.

We look forward to welcoming you to our stand E115/F115 on the outdoor exhibition grounds in Paris from 17 to 21 June 2024!

* in industrial cooperation

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Chemring Announces Long-Term Supply Agreement and Contract Award

Monday, June 10th, 2024

Chemring is pleased to announce that its Norwegian subsidiary, Chemring Nobel, has signed a 15-year partnering agreement with Northrop Grumman for the supply of HMX energetic material used in its missile programmes. This agreement, which reflects the increasing desire of our customers to move to long-term partnering agreements, builds on the two companies’ long-standing relationship and supports Northrop Grumman’s efforts to expand its munitions manufacturing production in response to growing customer demand.

As part of this agreement, Chemring also received a delivery order from Northrop Grumman, valued at $83m, for the supply of HMX. Deliveries under this order will commence in FY26 and will be made over the following three years, with all work being carried out at Chemring Nobel’s facility at S?tre, Norway.

Michael Ord, Chief Executive of Chemring, commented:

“These awards, which illustrate the long-term and valued relationship that we enjoy with Northrop Grumman, support our decision to invest in increasing the capacity of our three energetics businesses over the medium-term, and reinforces Chemring’s position as a key supplier to NATO.”

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NP Aerospace Acquires the Assets of Jankel Armouring Limited

Monday, June 10th, 2024

NP Aerospace, the global vehicle integrator and armour manufacturer, has today announced the acquisition of certain assets of Jankel Armouring Limited – in administration.

Jankel Armouring Limited entered administration on 27 February 2024 and Alvarez & Marsal Europe LLP were appointed as Administrators. NP Aerospace has now acquired assets which include Jankel Armouring Limited’s intellectual property, patents and inventory and the right to transfer, assign and/or novate existing contracts. The acquisition will allow NP Aerospace to integrate a globally proven and successful vehicle product and support line into their already strong portfolio, which will now include Jankel Armouring Limited’s tactical vehicles, civilian armoured vehicles (CAVs), armour technologies, seating systems and through life support services.

Having received UK National Security and Investment Act (NSIA) approval, NP Aerospace can formally engage with key customers, including the Belgian MoD (BeMOD) and UK Ministry of Defence (UK MoD) regarding the delivery of former Jankel Armouring Limited contracts. With an existing pedigree of successful defence vehicle production, integration and support activities, NP Aerospace is ideally positioned to deliver on customer requirements, bringing production programs through to successful conclusion, onshore in the UK.

NP Aerospace has been successful in securing talent from the original Jankel Armouring Limited staff including pivotal engineers and critical executives with the required knowledge of the acquired assets. In addition, it is expected that the acquisition will create and/or sustain around 60-70 skilled jobs. The acquisition does not include any aspect of, or formal relationship with the US based Jankel business, including Jankel Tactical Systems and does not include any liability to former creditors, which sits in the hands of the joint administrators, Alvarez and Marsal.

James Kempston, NP Aerospace CEO, commented: “The announcement of the acquisition of Jankel Armouring Limited’s assets marks a significant phase of growth for the company, creating additional value for customers through new business synergies.” He added: “Our immediate priority is to push forward with existing customer contracts and deliver successful programmes to a global customer base. Beyond that, this announcement is good news for the defence industry, enabling continuation of capability, products and supply, whilst enhancing a very strong global defence export line, under the NP Aerospace brand”.

Mike Denny, Joint Administrator, Alvarez & Marsal Europe LLP, commented: “The completion of the sale of certain assets of Jankel Armouring Limited to NP Aerospace will provide continuity to its customer base and create new opportunities for some of its skilled workforce. We are confident that the business will thrive under the ownership of NP Aerospace”.

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