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Texas National Guard, Chile Partner for Cyber Training

Thursday, September 21st, 2023

AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas National Guard and the Chilean Army conducted a joint cybersecurity exercise in Santiago, Chile, Aug. 28-30, as part of the State Partnership Program.

Col. Christopher Howell, chief of the Cyber Operations Branch, Joint Force Headquarters, Texas Military Department, said exchanging knowledge is a valuable tool to improve cybersecurity in both countries.

“We want them [Chile] to further understand how Chile’s cyber operations and organizational capabilities employ tactical responses at a military level. Also, we discussed the communications within their country,” Howell said.

As cyber threats become more common, supporting both countries’ relationships and strengthening the bonds between the military and their civilian counterparts is crucial, Howell said.

First Lt. Jose Pantoja with the Chilean Navy said these long-term partnerships are critical for international security.

“I think keeping this relationship between Chile and Texas is fundamental to develop our capacities and our apprenticeships to improve our defenses,” said Pantoja. “With this experience, the Texas National Guard shares with us their knowledge and training for maintaining our systems. We are also learning how they coordinate with their citizens.”

The exercise included a simulated cyber attack on a Chilean government website. Partners from both countries worked together to overcome challenges and address vulnerabilities.

Sgt. Maj. Darla Wright, senior noncommissioned officer for the Cyber Operations Branch, Texas Military Department, said building junior Soldiers’ knowledge benefits the military and the individuals.

“We wanted to share the different aspects that have been key to retain and recruit cyber personnel within the organization, and that is making every person understand their contribution and their effort is recognized, and this will create growth within the cyber-intelligence field now and for the future,” Wright said.

The Texas National Guard leaders also discussed the importance of rewarding hard work, developing individuals’ skills, and allowing each member the opportunity to advance within the Chilean Army.

“Often, the best recruiter is the person who is already doing that job. They have those skill sets, so the different things that we can help is to interview the talent within and train Soldiers to become instructors,“ Wright said.

The Texas National Guard and the Chilean Army have been partners under the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program since 2008. They will continue to work together to share information, develop personnel, and respond to cyber threats and guidance for the future.

The 30-year-old SPP program has grown to include 88 partnerships with 100 nations.

By Sarah Snedden, Texas Military Department

Posted in Army, Cyber, Guest Post, International | Comments Off on Texas National Guard, Chile Partner for Cyber Training

DSEI – Cockerill i-X

Monday, September 18th, 2023

The Cockerill i-X from innovator John Cockerill Group was displayed as their concept for a next-generation light vehicle. They’ve merged a weapon system with rally raid performance to produce a vehicle with a retractable weapon station which promises a top road speed of up to 200 kph. Referred to as a Ground Interceptor, the “i” in the name is for “interceptor” and “X” for “modular multi-weapons system.”

They describe the system as “capable of moving at very high speeds on-road and off-road (with a thermal or hybrid thermal-electric drive train), light, stealthy (appearance management with adaptive camouflage, and modification of IR and acoustic signature), integrating multi sensor data fusion technology (Smart Helmet, on-board intelligence AI, cameras, sensors : LWS, Acoustic Gunshot detection and localization) and capable of integrating a suite of effective weapons (such as 25mm, 30mm, Missiles, Rockets,…).”

Due to space constraints they displayed a model. However, below you can see a video showcasing the vehicle’s capabilities.

Posted in DSEi, International, Mobility, weapons | 3 Comments »

DSEI 23 – Platatac Hot Weather CUTS V4

Monday, September 18th, 2023

Here’s a sneak peek of the upcoming Hot Weather CUTS V4 from Platatac.

Utilizing the same layout as the popular CUTS, the V4 features lightweight Apocalypse fabric at the shoulder and sleeves and the same lightweight, treated jersey fabric used by Velocity Systems for their polos.

Shown at DSEI, this is a great opportunity to remind UK readers that Platatac products are available for unit and agency orders from Edgar Brothers.

Posted in Clothing, DSEi, International | 1 Comment »

DSEI 23 – British Soldier 2025

Monday, September 18th, 2023

As part of the new SoldierWorks, the British Army booth at DSEI displayed a mannequin outfitted with equipment which would be at home with any allied SOF unit.

Here is the plate at the mannequin’s feet.

What struck me was how soon 2025 is, barely 16 months away. Generally, such displays depict a vision of a decade or more in the future in order for the acquisition system to create requirements and industry to fulfill them. It also gives enough time that when nothing happens, most of us have forgotten about the broken promises of a shiny future.

This near-future set up was in contrast with the current issue kit. Some of where they’d like to be is already there, like ATAK and new binocular night vision. Other systems such as the L85A3 rifle, Virtus armor, load carriage and helmet, are deeply entrenched in the British Forces.

I also met several members of B Coy, 2nd Bn, Special Operations Brigade, aka the Ranger Regiment, during the symbolic signing of the L403A1 Alternative Individual Weapon System contract at the Edgar Brothers’ booth. Between the adoption of AIWS for certain units like the Ranger Regiment and Royal Marines and upcoming Project Graeburn to replace the SA80 wholesale, the bullpup is on its way out.

The Rangers were equipped with the new Knights Armament produced rifle along with Ops-Core FAST helmets, and Crye Precision uniforms and AVS vests which are issued to members of British SOF. When I discussed the kit with the men they echoed the aspirational aspects of the equipment for rapid fielding in pursuit of the Army’s Soldier 2025 efforts. The question is how the British Army will be able to quickly procure new high cut ballistic helmets and improved armor and load carriage without a requirement.

The answer seems to be SoldierWorks which promises provide the exploitation path from UK centres of experimentation, such as BattleLab, ARIEL, and the Army Warfighting Experiment.

It will act as an accelerator for modernising new soldier system capabilities by being involved from experimentation through to in-service capability.

Here are some examples of equipment the programme has facilitated:

Night vision sights for a variety of different rifles to improve the soldier’s ability to identify enemy targets earlier at night.

Binocular night vision goggles with a thermal clip-on system to enable a fused (thermal and image intensified) image.

Handheld medium-range target locator and ballistic calculator for sniper pairs

A range of improvements to combat clothing and equipment so that it fits individuals better and makes life easier for the user.

Posted in Army, DSEi, International | 9 Comments »

Milrem Robotics’ New Combat UGV with Loitering Munitions Allows Engagement Farther Behind Enemy Lines

Friday, September 15th, 2023

The European leading robotics and autonomous systems developer Milrem Robotics unveils a new THeMIS Combat Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) equipped with loitering munitions that allow engaging targets farther behind enemy lines.

The new system is equipped with Hunter 2-S tactical swarming drones by Halcon and features artificial intelligence that offers frontline forces the ability to locate, track and accurately eliminate soft targets, light vehicles and armoured vehicles from safe distances in challenging battlefield conditions.

“Units can manoeuvre the THeMIS Combat with Hunter 2-S drones closer to the enemy line. This allows them to engage closer targets faster or venture farther behind the lines to find suitable targets,” explained CPT (res) Jüri Pajuste, Defence R&D Director at Milrem Robotics.

The Hunter 2-S is able to autonomously follow a flight plan to an intended target area, coordinate with other drones in the swarm and loiter while seeking and classifying targets until engagement by a man-in-the-loop.

“Deploying robotic systems across enemy lines is considerably faster and more efficient than using manned units for the same task,” Pajuste said and added that using loitering munitions also enhances a unit’s situational awareness and ISR capabilities.

Hunter 2-S drones carry a payload of 2 kg each, can reach a cruising altitude of 500 m and cruise at an indicated airspeed of 25 m/s with a total available flight time of 45 minutes.

The mission-proven THeMIS UGV, which is part of robotics programs in 16 countries, is intended to support dismounted infantry units. It comes equipped with MIFIK – Milrem’s Intelligent Functions Kit that allows for independent mobility of the system, including point-to-point navigation, follow me, obstacle detection and avoidance.

The THeMIS Combat and other Milrem Robotics’ solutions are presented at DSEI 2023 in London and can be found in stand no H4-122.

Milrem Robotics is the leading European robotics and autonomous systems developer and systems integrator, with offices in Estonia, Finland, Sweden, the Netherlands and the US. The company is known for their THeMIS and Multiscope UGVs, the Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle and the MIFIK autonomy kit.

Posted in International, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Milrem Robotics’ New Combat UGV with Loitering Munitions Allows Engagement Farther Behind Enemy Lines

911 Supply Announces Grand Opening of New Retail Store in Ottawa, ON

Thursday, September 14th, 2023

Ottawa, ON – 911 Supply is excited to announce the grand opening of its newest retail store, located at 2194 Robertson Road, Ottawa, ON. 911 Supply, invites the public to join in the celebration on September 22 and September 23, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The grand opening event features an array of exciting activities and offerings for attendees, including giveaways, food, raffles, training sessions, and product demonstrations. Shoppers will also have the opportunity to enjoy exclusive discounts on major brands throughout the event.

911 Supply specializes in providing the latest, most innovative, and highest-quality equipment and apparel designed specifically for first responders and military end-users. With a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the unique needs of frontline professionals, the new Ottawa location promises to be a one-stop destination.

The new store features an open and immersive shopping experience in a spacious showroom, showcasing a wide range of products tailored to the needs of first responders and military personnel. The expert staff at 911 Supply is readily available to provide guidance and assistance to customers, ensuring they find the perfect equipment and apparel to meet their requirements.

“We are thrilled to open our doors to the Nepean community and beyond,” said Chrystal Duperron, Store Manager of 911 Supply. “Our team is passionate about serving those who serve our communities and our country. We invite everyone to join us during our grand opening event to experience the 911 Supply difference.”

For more information about 911 Supply and the grand opening event, please contact Chrystal Duperron at 613-721-5715 (Ext. 321) or via email at chrystal.duperron@911supply.ca. Also visit the 911 Supply web site for more information…

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on 911 Supply Announces Grand Opening of New Retail Store in Ottawa, ON

MoD Signs Contract with Edgar Brothers for Alternative Individual Weapon System

Thursday, September 14th, 2023

Announced last week by the MoD, the contract for the Alternative Individual Weapon System was announced by the Ministry of Defence. The AIWS is a version of the KS-1 carbine in 5.56 NATO, manufactured by Knights Armament Co.

Yesterday, representatives from the British Army and Edgar Brothers signed a symbolic version of the contract.

Col Paul Cummings, Dismounted Close Combat Portfolio Leader and COL Stu Nasse, Field Army Representative, along with Mike Newman, Director, Edgar Brothers sign the contract for the L403A1 Alternative Individual Weapon System for the British Army and Royal Marines.

Nick Taylor, Head of Soldier Training and Special Projects receives a commemorative plaque on behalf of the Army from Matt Grundy Edgar Brothers Senior Manager.

The plaque, crafted from slate and reclaimed wood is part of the Social Value Model projects Edgar Brothers will undertake pursuant to this contract. It was crafted by Dan Earp-Jones a former Royal Marine.

Additionally, C. Reed Knight, Jr. and C. Reed Knight, III presented a bayonet to Nick Taylor, Head of Soldier Training and Special Projects.

Here is a photo of representatives from the government and industry team that made AIWS possible.

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, DSEi, International, weapons | Comments Off on MoD Signs Contract with Edgar Brothers for Alternative Individual Weapon System

DSEI 23 – Beretta Debuts New Assault Rifle Platform

Thursday, September 14th, 2023

Beretta debuted their New Assault Rifle Platform at DSEI. NARP is a short stroke piston platform with two gas position settings for normal and suppressed.

Currently chambered on 5.56 NATO, the representative assured me that other calibers are coming, including a scaled up 7.62 version.

It is fully ambidextrous and utilizes an AR-style rear charging handle. In addition to the M4-style collapsible buttstock, it will also accept a side folder.