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Rheinmetall and MBDA Sign Agreement to Integrate the Small Anti Drone Missile into the Skyranger 30 and Other Military Platforms

Sunday, June 9th, 2024

To close the existing capability gaps in mobile defence against drones at short range, Rheinmetall Electronics and MBDA Deutschland signed a corresponding Letter of Intent (LOI) at ILA 2024. The companies intend to integrate MBDA’s Small Anti Drone Missile (SADM) into the Skyranger 30 and other Rheinmetall military vehicles. Utilising Enforcer technologies, this new guided missile offers an effective solution against small and medium-sized drones providing a high hit probability at long stand-off distances. For its part, the 30mm cannon on the Skyranger 30 offers highly efficient, mobile defence against airborne threats by combining firepower, intelligent sensor technology and high mobility at shorter ranges. This means that the two weapons complement each other perfectly.

The Letter of Intent aims at a long-term cooperation for the integration of the missile into the Skyranger 30 and other military vehicles as well as the development, production and integration of a launcher onto various turret systems and Rheinmetall’s digital system architecture.

On the MBDA stand at ILA, location G3/001, the missile is displayed on the turret of the Skyranger 30 system.

Thomas Gottschild, Managing Director of MBDA Germany: “The current conflicts have clearly shown that drone defence is one of the key challenges for armed forces. In order to provide the best possible solution, we are joining forces and building on our partnership with Rheinmetall and their turret solutions to close capability gaps in drone defence with the help of our Small Anti Drone Missile.”

Timo Haas, Chief Digital Officer von Rheinmetall: “As the prime contractor for the Skyranger 30 system in Germany, the Small Anti-Drone Missile is an ideal and logical addition to the capabilities of Rheinmetall’s systems and vehicles. We are working in advance and are already creating the conditions for the industrial set-up in order to quickly implement the customer’s decisions.”

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Rheinmetall Pressing Ahead with F-35A project: AERO-Bildungs GmbH Commissioned with Technical Training for Production Mechanics

Saturday, June 8th, 2024

Rheinmetall is pressing ahead with its F-35A programme. The technology group has commissioned AERO-Bildungs GmbH to provide technical training for the production mechanics for the centre fuselage section of the F-35A in Weeze.

AERO-Bildungs GmbH is a partner specialised in the field of technical training within the aviation sector. The mid-sized family business located in Oberpfaffenhofen in Bavaria will assist with planning of the training and the implementation of basic technical training. This shall enhance the knowledge and skills initially learnt at Northrop Grumman in the USA not only to be applied in Weeze, but also to be passed on to other employees in the same quality, thus enabling a transfer of knowledge. In cooperation with experienced Rheinmetall trainers, a dedicated training and competence center is being set up in Weeze to ensure sustainable knowledge building and ongoing employee qualification.

The commissioning of AERO-Bildungs GmbH as of April 2024 is the first step towards further integrating German companies into the F-35A delivery and supply chain for the Weeze site. It underlines the Duesseldorf-based technology group’s commitment to increasing German added value within the programme.

Rheinmetall has been commissioned by Northrop Grumman to produce at least 400 centre fuselage sections for the F-35A fighter aircraft in 2023. Extensive infrastructure measures are currently underway in Weeze, North Rhine-Westphalia, near the Dutch border. The aim is to complete the production facility in spring 2025 and then start production in summer 2025.

About Rheinmetall Aviation Services:
Rheinmetall Aviation Services GmbH (RAS), based in Bremen, was founded at the beginning of 2019 for strategic cooperation with Sikorsky in the Heavy Transport Helicopter (STH) procurement project. RAS has been working in close cooperation with the German Air Force at three different airfields since 2021/2022. RAS is seamlessly integrated into the German Air Force’s organisational structure and successfully takes over support, maintenance and repair of the CH-53G fleet.

Another important milestone was achieved in 2023 when RAS, in cooperation with Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin, entered into the production of centre fuselage sections for the F-35A. With an investment volume in the three-digit million euro range, Rheinmetall is currently building a state-of-the-art factory at the Weeze site in North Rhine-Westphalia for the production of at least 400 F-35A centre fuselage sections for the German Air Force and allied nations.

A new era in the air dimension will begin for Rheinmetall with the completion of the factory by the end of the first quarter of 2025 and the subsequent start of production and delivery of the first centre fuselage sections as of the first quarter of 2027.

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Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall Expand Strategic Collaboration

Friday, June 7th, 2024

Lockheed Martin, the global aerospace and deterrence company, and Rheinmetall, a leading international systems provider for security technology, have signed a new collaboration memorandum of understanding (MoU) at ILA Berlin. The two companies aim to collaborate in areas including land, air and naval forces as well as in simulation and maintenance. Specifically, this includes rocket artillery systems, laser weapon systems, simulation and training for land vehicles and helicopters, short-range air defence (SHORAD) and other areas of cooperation.

Speaking at the signing event, Ray Piselli, vice president International at Lockheed Martin, said: “Today’s MoU marks a further step in the development of Lockheed Martin’s maturing relationship with Rheinmetall and will deliver business opportunities for both companies internationally. I’m excited by the opportunities ahead which will sustain German jobs, boost exports and enhance the country’s technical skills base well into the future.”

Dennis Goege, vice president for Central and Eastern Europe at Lockheed Martin, added: “This signing today builds on successful cooperation such as the German F-35 program or the GMARS rocket artillery system. It is a logical step for us to take our collaboration with Rheinmetall to a new strategic level which will strengthen our enduring relationship with German and European industries.”

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “We are pleased to take the next step in our proven cooperation with our US partner Lockheed Martin. Both companies have specific capabilities and technological expertise that complement each other perfectly. It is our declared goal to serve our customers from this ambitious partnership with cutting-edge technology that combines the best of both companies.”

Lockheed Martin has been a partner to the German industry for over 50 years and continues to strengthen these partnerships by working with companies like Rheinmetall that possess highly advanced technical capabilities. As part of the international F-35 supply chain, Rheinmetall will soon start the production of up to 400 F-35 center fuselages. The Düsseldorf-based technology group is thus creating at least 400 direct jobs for highly qualified workers in Weeze (North Rhine-Westphalia).

In 2023, Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin teamed up to develop GMARS, a two-pod multiple rocket launcher system designed to meet the growing demand for long-range rocket artillery. If selected by the Bundeswehr, this system would bring significant workshare to the German industry.

Lockheed Martin will continue to explore additional industrial participation opportunities. These partnerships with German industry create jobs in manufacturing, sustainment, training, research, and development.

Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of ammunition, land systems and defence electronics. The construction of the F-35 centre fuselage factory in Weeze also marks the Group’s entry into the ultra-modern military aerospace industry.

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Tomahawk Performance Expands European Distribution in Sweden with MP-SEC International

Friday, June 7th, 2024

Nashville, Tennessee – June 2024 – Tomahawk Performance is pleased to announce MP-SEC International as new exclusive channel partner in Sweden.

“We are extremely proud to partner with MP-SEC International. They have established an exceptional track record built on trust and years of exceptional service to those on the front lines who fight to ensure our collective safety and global stability. Working with the MP-SEC International is imperative to our growth in a key market,” says Marc Elbaz, Tomahawk Performance CEO.

“This collaboration marks a significant milestone in advancing the accessibility of cutting-edge gear to those serving in a hostile environment with high operational and technical requirements,” says Max Gidhagen, MP-SEC Int’l VP of Government Sales.

Partnering with MP-SEC International allows Tomahawk Performance to expand the range of support to military and law enforcement personnel and supply protective layering systems to Europe. Product currently available in Sweden through MP-SEC.

Tomahawk Performance designs technical apparel and gear to maximize mobility and enhance performance during the mission. For more information, please contact the Tomahawk Performance team.

contact@tomahawkperformance.com

info@mp-sec.com

Posted in Clothing, Industry, International, Press Release | 2 Comments »

Elevated Silence Renews Tier 1 Sponsorship of American Suppressor Association

Thursday, June 6th, 2024

“Ensuring law-abiding firearms owners can purchase, possess, and use suppressors is not only logical but crucial for our nation,” said Jim Hood, Founder and CEO of Elevated Silence. “ASA’s dedication makes this a reality, and we are honored to stand behind Knox and the team. We are committed to exceeding expectations and encourage others in the industry to join us in advocating for our industry and defending our Second Amendment rights.”

Elevated Silence’s journey to create the perfect suppressor began with gun enthusiast and businessman Jim Hood’s realization: if you can’t buy it, build it. This led to the founding of Elevated Silence, where Jim pioneered a multi-chamber technology that efficiently redirects gas away from the bullet as it travels through the suppressor. This innovation minimizes any impact on bullet trajectory and stability, resulting in consistently accurate performance across a wide range of calibers and weapon systems.

Knox Williams, President and Executive Director of ASA, expressed his excitement about the ongoing partnership by stating, “Elevated Silence’s support for the American Suppressor Association’s mission is truly exceptional. As a Tier 1 sponsor for the second year running, they are demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the cause. Jim and his team manufacture world-class suppressors and have set high standards for the industry We look forward to continuing our collaboration and achieving tremendous successes together.”

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Galvion Responds to U.S. Attorney’s Office District of Vermont Settlement

Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Newport, Vermont (June 2024) In response to the recent press release issued by the Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont, Galvion wishes to provide the following statement.

Galvion has fully cooperated with the government’s investigation of this matter and is thankful to have reached a resolution. This situation dates back to the period of 2016-2019 and relates to the country of origin of some textile components within the Modular Suspension System (MSS) liner replacement kits that did not fully comply with the Berry Amendment. Galvion would like to stress that the pads and overall liner systems fully complied with and met all the testing specifications required by the U.S. Military. The MSS kits presented no safety concerns for the warfighter.

Since its major divestiture and corporate re-structuring in 2019, Galvion has built a new and robust compliance program and upholds a strong commitment to continuous improvement across the organization. Galvion remains an active supplier to the U.S. Military.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO of Galvion said: “This settlement resolves a situation from years ago related to Berry Amendment textile materials, and Galvion has the compliance processes in place today to ensure this cannot happen.” He added: “Galvion is a team of passionate people who are dedicated to supporting our American warfighters, as well as those of our wider global allies. We want to put this historical matter behind us and focus on engineering the systems that enhance the performance and survivability of those who are on the front lines.”

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DOJ – Galvion To Pay $2,495,000 To Resolve False Claims Act Allegations

Thursday, June 6th, 2024

According to a release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Vermont, Galvion, known for their helmets and power systems has agreed to pay $2,495,000 for violating the Berry Amendment between 2016 and 2019. Galvion has responded and their statement can be seen here.

The DOJ announcement is below:

Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that Galvion, Ltd. (Galvion) has agreed to pay $2,495,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act through the knowing sale of non-conforming parts to the United States Department of Defense.

Galvion is headquartered in Montreal, Canada with three production facilities located in the United States, including one in Newport, Vermont. Galvion manufactures protective head systems for use by law enforcement and military personnel, including the United States military. Among the company’s products is the modular suspension system (MSS), a helmet insert.

Through prime vendors, the company sold MSS products to the United States under the Defense Logistics Agency’s Special Operational Equipment Tailored Logistic Support (SOE TLS) Program, which requires that textiles be sourced from the United States in accordance with the Berry Amendment. The government’s investigation revealed that between January 1, 2016 and June 30, 2019, the company used a non-domestic source of pads in the MSS products sold through the SOE TLS program, as well as a foreign source of nets and harnesses for some orders.

Galvion has acknowledged that employees with oversight of material sourcing, product operations, and/or product sales during this period were aware that certain components in these orders needed to be sourced from the United States and that non-compliant components nevertheless were used. The government alleges that these acts violated the False Claims Act, a civil fraud statute that prohibits the knowing submission of false claims to the government.

“Fraud by government contractors and subcontractors is a serious issue and can erode the integrity of government programs,” said United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest. “By selling improperly sourced products to the military, the company placed profits over compliance with clear regulations. This settlement demonstrates that the United States Attorney’s Office will continue to root out fraud among companies who do business with the government.”

“The introduction of non-compliant materials into the military supply chain poses a significant risk to our nation’s service members,” stated Brian J. Solecki, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office. “We remain committed to working with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice, to ensure that individuals and companies who engage in fraudulent activity, at the expense of the Department of Defense, are held accountable for their actions.”

“This settlement further demonstrates the resolve of Army CID, and our law enforcement partners to protect and defend the assets of the United States Army,” stated Special Agent in Charge Keith K. Kelly, of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division’s Fraud Field Office.

During the period in question, the MSS was a product of Revision Military Ltd (Revision); in September 2019, Revision’s owner sold the company and certain product lines but retained the protective head system business, which thereafter operated as Galvion.

To resolve the claims against it, Galvion has agreed to pay to the United States a total of $2,495,000. This amount reflects Galvion’s acceptance of responsibility, cooperation with the government investigation, and compliance measures Galvion implemented after 2019.

Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Almquist Lively handled this matter for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont. Investigative support was provided by the United States Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division.

This investigation stemmed from a complaint made to the DLA Hotline related to the origin of materials used in the company’s MSS products. The government encourages individuals with information on potential fraud to report it, as complaints and hotline tips often play a key role in holding companies accountable. To report fraud, waste, abuse, or mismanagement impacting DLA, contact the DLA Hotline by completing the online form at www.dla.mil/Inspector-General/Hotline-Form. You can also report concerns to OIGHotline@dla.mil or call 1-800-411-9127. Requests for confidentiality will be honored to the full extent allowed by law.

The settlement agreement between the United States and Galvion is available at this link:

Galvion Settlement Agreement

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NIOA Opens Office on US Army Base

Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

NIOA’s American company is open for business in the heart of the US Army’s garrison for armaments development and procurement.

In officially opening the company’s office at Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey, NIOA Group CEO Robert Nioa said the event marked a shared commitment to Australia-US security objectives and defence industry advancement.

“Co-development, co-production and co-sustainment within the allied network starts with co-location,” Mr Nioa said.

“NIOA is committed to expanding its participation in and collaboration with the US defence industrial base to enhance US and allied global security objectives.

“Opening a permanent office at the US Army’s centre for munitions research and technology provides a gateway for us to grow our presence in the US and work more closely with America’s long-standing allies, particular its AUKUS partners in the UK and Australia.

“We are excited about the opportunities this will bring, not only for our company but for the broader goals of our allied defence forces.”

Picatinny Arsenal Commanding General Maj-Gen John Reim and the NIOA Group’s US-based Advisory Board member Ellen Lord assist NIOA Group CEO Robert Nioa in cutting the ribbon at the official opening of NIOA’s office at the US Army’s New Jersey base.

Major-General John T Reim, Commanding General of Picatinny Arsenal and Joint Program Executive Officer Armaments and Ammunition, joined Mr Nioa, senior Picatinny military officials, NIOA executives and other US defence company executives for the ceremonial ribbon cutting.

Picatinny Arsenal has a workforce of more than 6000 across key organisations such as Joint Program Executive Office Armaments and Ammunition (JPEO A&A) and the Combat Capability Development Command Armaments Center (DEVCOM-AC).

The Picatinny tenancy is a significant step in NIOA’s US growth plan which included the 2023 acquisition of key US Army supplier, Tennessee-based Barrett Firearms, and the recent teaming agreement with California-headquartered Aerojet Rocketdyne.

NIOA also has long-standing relationships with American companies such as General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman and Winchester through its operation of the Lake City ammunition plant, each of which also have offices at Picatinny.

Earlier this year, leading US defence industry executive Dan Olson was appointed to the NIOA Group’s Advisory Board joining former US Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, the Hon. Ellen Lord.

NIOA’s residence at Picatinny comes as the US Department of Defense reaffirmed its commitment to double down on strengthening defence industrial resilience in the Indo-Pacific.

The “Statement of Principles for Indo-Pacific Defense Industrial Base Collaboration” released by the Pentagon on Friday endorsed action “to expand industrial base capability, capacity, and workforce; increase supply chain resilience; and promote defense innovation”.

About the NIOA Group…

• The NIOA Group includes NIOA Inc [USA], NIOA Australia, NIOA New Zealand, the Australian Missile Corporation, Barrett Firearms [USA)] and joint venture company Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions.

• Established in 1973, NIOA is a global firearms, weapons and munitions company with operations in the USA, Australia and New Zealand with a distribution network covering 75 US State department approved countries.

• NIOA is a major tenant at the Australian government owned, contractor operated (GOCO) munitions facility at Benalla in Victoria where it is currently manufacturing 120mm munitions for the Abrams tank along with 30mm and 35mm cannon ammunition.

• The company is a joint venture partner with Rheinmetall of Germany in the Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions 155mm artillery forging facility in Maryborough, Queensland, delivering key munitions for US allied nations.

• NIOA has a strategic agreement with Aerojet Rocketdyne, a L3Harris Technologies company, to explore the manufacturing of key munitions and components within Australia’s sovereign guided weapons enterprise.

www.nioa.com.au

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