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Schiebel Awarded New RPAS Contract with EMSA

Friday, January 24th, 2025

Vienna, 23 January 2025 – Schiebel has been awarded another multi-year service contract for the CAMCOPTER® S-100 Unmanned Air System (UAS) with the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA). The contract is for service provision with Remotely Piloted Aircraft Services (RPAS) for supporting EU member states in emission monitoring and maritime surveillance operations.

For the third time in a row, Schiebel has been awarded a tender with EMSA. In 2018, Schiebel signed its first contract to support European coast guards and maritime authorities, followed by a second contract in 2021. The now newly awarded contract spans for up to four years – two fixed years with an option for an additional two years.

Since 2018, the S-100 has conducted over 1780 deployment days for EMSA and operated across Europe, in Croatia, France, Finland, Denmark, Spain, Estonia, Romania, Lithuania, Iceland, Germany and Belgium. Stationed either on land or on ships, the S-100 performs general night and day maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations and oil spill detection, as well as monitoring of sulphur content of ships’ emissions to ensure compliance with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) limits.

The CAMCOPTER® S-100 can carry multiple payloads with a combined weight of up to 50 kg. Due to its unique and proven nature, and its ability to fly slowly and hover, it is ideally suited for maritime operations.

“We have been supporting European maritime authorities for almost six years now and are extremely proud to continue our success story with EMSA. It proves once again, that the availability and reliability of the S-100 is unrivalled,” said Neil Hunter, Head of Global Sales for Schiebel.

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Quantum Systems and blackned Join Forces to Take Tactical Core Airborne and Revolutionize Battlefield Connectivity

Thursday, January 23rd, 2025

Munich, 23.01.2025 – Quantum Systems and blackned are pleased to announce their intent to collaborate on the digitalization and secure networking of unmanned elements in modern battlefield environments. This groundbreaking partnership aims to combine Quantum Systems’ advanced multi-sensor unmanned aerial systems (UAS) with blackned’s Tactical Core Information and Communication Middleware, setting a new and advanced standard for operational efficiency and integration.

“The support of different transmission systems and the application independence ensure a high degree of adaptability, from manned and unmanned platforms to missions, use cases and systems already in use,” says Dr. Joel Langenberg, CEO of blackned.

Based on open interfaces and software development kits, the most suitable third-party applications can be integrated and put into operation. “This partnership marks a significant step to a secure multi-domain data transfer”, said Sven Kruck, Co-CEO of Quantum Systems. By supporting various transmission systems and maintaining application independence, the partnership offers unprecedented flexibility for military operations. This opens a whole new world for the German Armed Forces.

The partnership underscores both organizations’ commitment to innovation and providing military forces with cutting-edge solutions to navigate the complexities of modern warfare.

“This partnership marks a significant step to a secure multi-domain data transfer, adding an additional layer of flexibility for military operations.”

Sven Kruck

Co-CEO, Quantum Systems

Dr. Joel Langenberg

CEO, blackned GmbH

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Wescom Group Qcquires Leading Safety Technology Company BCB International Ltd

Thursday, January 23rd, 2025

World-leading survival solutions manufacturer Wescom Group has expanded its influence in the safety technology market through the acquisition of Cardiff based, BCB International Ltd.A leading global supplier of safety equipment in the defence, outdoor and marine sectors.

Wescom Group Chief Executive Officer, Ross Wilkinson comments,

“Today we can announce the successful completion of the acquisition of BCB International Ltd., this partnership will further enhance Wescom Group’s core safety and survival product portfolio. We are excited to work with the management team on growing the business through the Group’s extensive distribution network, whilst also having a strong focus on new product development programs.”

BCB International’s Managing Director Andrew Howell states,

“This announcement is an exciting opportunity and the BCB team are energised to be joining with Wescom Group. This partnership will help us to deliver BCB’s innovative MSC technology and world beating FireDragon eco-fuel to a much wider international audience as well as our core products that are constantly evolving. We have known some of the Wescom team for many decades and it is invigorating to be working with them to help save lives and protect the protectors to a much larger scale.”

Background

The Wescom Group reached an impressive milestone in 2023, celebrating 150 years of expertise in the manufacture and distribution of survival solutions, with specialist manufacturing facilities across multiple sites in Germany, UK, Spain and Australia and over 450 employees worldwide. Wescom Group is globally recognised for supplying the very best in quality, performance, reliability, and safety.

Welsh based BCB International has for more than 160 years developed life-saving and protective equipment for the defence, outdoor and marine sectors in multiple countries world-wide.With wide ranging experience in product development, supply chain operations and manufacturing, BCB’s history of innovation is reflected in numerous awards, including two Queen’s Award for Export Achievement.

For information about Wescom Group, please go to www.wescom-group.com for information on the BCB International range learn more at www.bcbin.com

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INVISIO Acquires Product Line from Ultra PCS to Further Enhance its Integration Capabilities of the Modern Soldier System

Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025

INVISIO acquires UK company Ultra PCS’s UltraLYNX™ product line, which enables seamless integration of devices from different suppliers, creating an ecosystem within the modern soldier system. A number of employees at Ultra PCS will join INVISIO as part of the USD 3,5 million transaction.

UltraLYNX™ software-defined hubs enable seamless integration of devices from different suppliers, including those not originally designed to work together. The product line creates an ecosystem that provides audio, data connectivity and power, reducing the cognitive and physical burden on users.

This strategic acquisition will enhance INVISIO’s ability to deliver fully integrated tactical body-worn systems capable of handling audio, power and data, along with leading-edge computing power. It will allow INVISIO to provide a seamless and robust plug-and-play communication system that meets the evolving needs of modern military and defense operations.

The UltraLYNX™ product will be seamlessly integrated into the INVISIO ecosystem, acting as a catalyst for the development of future innovative and cutting-edge products.

INVISIO facilitates the modern soldier system

The modern soldier system is a complex network of devices—radios, weapon sights, navigation tools and sensors—sourced from different suppliers with unique standards. These devices must share data, audio and power within a unified ecosystem.

Integration is challenging due to differing protocols and power demands and the need for real-time communication. UltraLYNX™ simplifies this process by harmonizing protocols, managing power and enabling seamless device interoperability. As a result, soldiers can focus on their mission without being burdened by complex setup requirements and incompatible equipment.

The deal is completed today and UltraLYNX™ will be fully incorporated under the INVISIO brand.

Lars Højgård Hansen, INVISIO CEO, commented: “This acquisition aligns with our strategic vision to expand and enhance our product offerings and provide our customers with cutting-edge solutions that improve operational efficiency and effectiveness. The UltraLYNX product line will add significant capabilities to our already market leading soldier systems.

The acquisition strengthens INVISIO’s position in our markets, which are undergoing a digital transformation. We expect, after the initial integration, that the product line will contribute significantly to INVISIOs revenues in 2026 and onwards.”

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First British-Made Boxer Presented at the International Armoured Vehicles Conference

Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025

Today the first British-made Boxer vehicle was proudly unveiled by the Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle, at the International Armoured Vehicles (IAV) Conference. This significant milestone signals the return of large-scale armoured vehicle manufacturing to the UK, revitalising the nation’s defence capabilities, economic strength, and engineering excellence.

‘’Made in Britain’’ at Its Best

Manufactured entirely in the UK at Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) in Telford, with the support of partners in KNDS UK, this ground breaking vehicle represents a true collaboration. Built under the UK’s Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) Programme, the Boxer’s journey to British soil began in 2019, when the Ministry of Defence awarded the contract via OCCAR to ARTEC GmbH – a partnership between Rheinmetall and KNDS, with the manufacture of the Boxer vehicles subcontracted to RBSL and KNDS UK.

This achievement is a true testament to the dedication and collaboration of all involved, including the British Army, Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) and industry partners. Their expertise and commitment have re-established the UK’s sovereign manufacturing capability.

Rheinmetall’s £56 million (approx. €66.3 million) investment in Telford has transformed the facility into a world leading production capability, complete with modern fabrication lines for armoured steel, advanced surface treatment systems, and integrated assembly lines for both Drive and Mission Modules. Every Boxer that rolls off the line is a testament to the highly skilled workforce across the supply chain.

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said:

“It was a pleasure to unveil the first fully British-made Boxer – a testament to the expertise and innovation of Britain’s growing Defence Industry.

“The home-grown production of this world-class vehicle exemplifies our Government’s Plan for Change, deepening our partnership with industry to deliver thousands of highly skilled jobs and drive growth across the UK.”

John Abunassar, CEO of Rheinmetall in the UK, added:

“The unveiling of the first British-made Boxer is a historic moment for UK defence manufacturing. It not only symbolises the return of armoured vehicle production to British soil but also underscores Rheinmetall’s commitment to delivering sovereign capability, innovation, and economic prosperity for the UK. Boxer is more than a vehicle – it’s a Future Force Enabler, ensuring the British Army is ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges while delivering real benefits today.”

Driving Economic Growth and Innovation

The Boxer programme is delivering economic and strategic impact, creating over 1,000 highly skilled jobs across engineering, development, and complex systems integration; with over 100 UK suppliers involved. Around 75% of Boxer’s components are sourced domestically, ensuring a resilient UK supply.

This investment strengthens the UK’s defence strategy while ensuring collaboration with NATO allies, positioning Boxer as a key player in regional security and interoperability.

Boxer: Ready for Tomorrow’s Challenges

Boxer isn’t just a vehicle – it’s designed for adaptability, resilience, and operational superiority, it delivers unmatched versatility to the British Army’s Future Force. With our Telford facility poised for volume production this year, Boxer is ready to roll out as a critical capability in an era of complex global security challenges.

The UK trials programme for Boxer is advancing successfully, with prototypes passing all tests on the first attempt. These trials, supported by ARTEC and KNDS, have included Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) assessments, live firing at Lulworth Ranges in Dorset, and extreme climatic evaluations at Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. This flawless performance underscores Boxer’s exceptional reliability and operational readiness, even in the most challenging environments. Notably, the British Army has successfully tested the Boxer’s water-fording capabilities, demonstrating its stability and control in unprepared water crossings.

These achievements highlight the Boxer’s robust design and its readiness to meet the diverse operational demands of the British Armed Forces.

A New Chapter for UK Defence Manufacturing

The first British-built Boxer highlights the re-establishing armoured vehicle production on British soil. The Boxer programme is a symbol of what can be achieved through collaboration, investment, and a shared commitment to securing the future.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | 1 Comment »

ISTEC Selected to Provide the Smoke Discharger System (SDS) for the British Army’s New MLRS A2

Friday, January 17th, 2025

ISTEC Services Limited is a British company with 35 years of operationally proven experience in the design, manufacture and supply of complex weapon integration solutions and smoke discharger systems (SDS) for military platforms. ISTEC has been selected to provide the SDS for the British Army’s new M270 MLRS A2. At DVD, in September 2024, ISTEC announced the delivery of 65 GPMG gun mounts for MLRS A2 and the combined contract value supplied via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) catalogue exceeds £1.5 million.

ISTEC has a long history of delivering weapon integration solutions for crew-served weapons such as HMG and MMG across Land, Sea and Air domains and has an extensive operational pedigree having supplied gun mounts for key operational vehicles such as WMIK, Mastiff, Viking and Jackal used for Land operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, ISTEC has also been providing bespoke platform SDS since 2018 and their systems have been fitted to specialist light strike vehicles so also have an extensive operationally proven pedigree.

An effective SDS is essential to enhance the MLRS A2’s survivability by providing rapid and effective smoke screens to obscure the vehicle from enemy observation and targeting. The smoke can be deployed quickly from under protection to create visual and infrared concealment, disrupting the enemy’s line-of-sight and guidance systems. This protection capability is crucial during manoeuvres in contact, allowing the vehicle to re-position while reducing the risk of being hit.

The new MLRS A2 will be fitted with the ISL 66SD/4 which is a four-barrel vehicle-mounted SDS capable of firing all natures of UK in-service 66mm munitions. However, ISTEC SDS can come in multiple configurations as required by the platform including 2, 3 and 4 barrel setups. The ISL 66SD range has been designed to ensure both the base plate and canister connectors are compatible with the UK in-service 66mm No12 Mk8 smoke discharger (dual pole) to minimise the logistic burden.

The system is supplied with the ISTEC Fire Control Unit which has 4 firing buttons, an arming safety cover and NVD compatible colour-coded LED indicators to show the status of each pod.

Adrian Webster, Operations Manager at ISTEC said, “We are extremely pleased to have won this important contract to help equip the UK’s new MLRS A2 platform with the best possible defensive suite of smoke dischargers. Our extensive experience in adapting solutions to meet vehicle geometry and architecture requirements, coupled with our long-standing history with both NSPA and the MLRS platform, makes this an exciting opportunity.” He added, “This project, combined with the weapons mount systems, further enhances the UK’s defence capabilities with cutting-edge technology, supporting national security and the operational effectiveness of the MLRS A2.”

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Schiebel Camcopter S-300 UAS Selected For Major European Defence Project

Thursday, January 16th, 2025

Vienna, 13 January 2025 – Schiebel, as part of the SEACURE consortium led by Thales, has been awarded a grant agreement under the European Defence Fund’s call for unmanned anti-submarine and seabed warfare solutions.

The SEACURE (Seabed and anti-submarine warfare capability through unmanned feature for Europe) consortium consists of 35 companies from 13 European countries and aims to progress joint Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Seabed Warfare (SBW) with unmanned air, surface and underwater systems protecting critical maritime infrastructure. The focus is on detection, classification, identification and tracking of underwater threats in demanding conditions.

Schiebel’s latest product, the CAMCOPTER® S-300, will serve as the dedicated Unmanned Air System (UAS) for this project. With a maximum take-off weight of 700kg, the S-300 offers an impressive endurance in excess of 24 hours with a camera and Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar (ISAR) or typically 6 hours with a 250 kg payload. It is the first operational VTOL in its class to achieve these capabilities. The SEACURE project is scheduled to culminate in a large-scale sea trial by 2028.

“We have been working successfully with Thales on various ASW solutions for the S-100 since our first participation at the NATO exercise REPMUS in 2022. Due to its longer endurance and higher payload capacity, the S-300 opens up a multitude of new possibilities for ASW and SBW. The SEACURE project aligns perfectly with our S-300 development roadmap and we’re proud to be part of such a significant project,” said Hans Georg Schiebel, Chairman of the Schiebel Group.

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Rheinmetall Supplies Artillery Ammunition Worth €21 Million to International Customer

Wednesday, January 15th, 2025

An international customer has contracted with Rheinmetall to supply five-digit quantities of 155mm M107 artillery ammunition. Worth €21 million, the order is to be delivered in the first half of 2025. The order was booked in December 2024.

The ammunition will be manufactured by Rheinmetall Expal Munitions in Spain. In service with several NATO nations for decades, the M107 is still among the world’s most widely used artillery projectiles. It can be fired from a large number of 155mm weapon systems.

Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of large calibre ammunition. The Group has been increasing its production capacities since 2022 and aims to be able to produce up to 1.1 million 155mm artillery shells annually by 2027.

Rheinmetall’s extensive product portfolio of weapons and ammunition systems ranges from medium-caliber ammunition for infantry fighting vehicles and anti-aircraft guns to tank and artillery ammunition, aircraft armament and high-energy laser applications.

Posted in Ammo, Contracts, International, Press Release | No Comments »