FirstSpear TV

Archive for the ‘International’ Category

Japan Buys Two SeaGuardians from GA-ASI

Saturday, August 17th, 2024

SAN DIEGO – 15 August 2024 – The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) has signed a contract for the purchase of two SeaGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), scheduled for delivery in 2025. This follows JCG’s ongoing Company-Owned, Contractor-Operated agreement with GA-ASI for operating SeaGuardian, which began in April 2022.

“Since JCG started operating SeaGuardians, they have been used for various JCG missions including supporting search and rescue and disaster response specifically during the 7.6 magnitude earthquake early this year near the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecture and maritime surveillance during the 2023 G-7 Summit in Hiroshima, and the system has performedefficiently and effectively,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue.

SeaGuardian is a medium-altitude, long-endurance RPA system that can fly for 24 hours or more, depending on the configuration.

GA-ASI has strengthened its Maritime Wide Area Surveillance (MWAS) for Japan with Optix+, which gathers information from the SeaGuardian sensors, as well as other data sources, displaying the full picture of surveillance information for its operator. This functionality makes it easy to task and direct its Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) information in real time. GA-ASI’s Optix+ software suite rapidly correlates and exploits collected data into an easily shared common operational picture. Having multi-source correlated data enables automatic detection of anomalous behaviors over waters.

Pincroft Invests £1+ in New Military Printing Tech

Thursday, August 15th, 2024

£1m+ investment to dramatically boost Pincroft’s camouflage printing capacity

(Adlington, United Kingdom): Global leader in military fabric printing, dyeing and finishing, Pincroft, has announced an investment of over £1m for the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment for its factory in the United Kingdom that is set to increase the textile manufacturer’s camouflage printing capacity to over 8 million metres a year.

The new equipment boasts the latest technology in rotary screen printing, including a magnet combined system for uniform application across the width, digital synchronisation for better accuracy, short setup times, automatic repeat settings, design memory, and faster reproduction of re-orders.

It also includes a pre-bulk strike-off machine, which allows for preparation prior to the printing production process. This facilitates the development and verification of paste viscosities, colour concentration and magnet power adjustment.

Pincroft’s new rotary screen printer will allow the manufacturer to process a complex range of technical textiles, from lightweight fabrics for waterproof applications, to heavy weights for load carriage and equipment handling.

This new investment is Pincroft’s strategic move to continue its growth in the military fabrics segment and continue offering customers the best quality in camouflage textile printing.

Mike Collins, Pincroft’s Managing Director, says: “This investment is hugely important for our business. We expect delivery of the machine at the end of the year and aim to be ready for production at the start of 2025.”

Aeronautics Secures Contract with NATO Member for Advanced Orbiter 3 UAS

Wednesday, August 14th, 2024

Agreement includes the new generation multi-platform system to a repeat NATO customer, enhancing fleet capabilities

August 12, 2024 – Aeronautics Ltd., a global leader in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for defense and HLS markets, announces a significant contract with a European NATO member country to supply advanced Orbiter 3 UAS systems.

This important contract includes the Aeronautics’ new generation multi-platform system to a NATO customer, increasing significantly the customers’ existing fleet. The Orbiter 3 is a small tactical unmanned aerial system, considered one of the leading systems in its class worldwide. It provides superior performance for both defense and HLS applications, making it an essential asset for modern military operations.

The Orbiter 3 stands out with its advanced ISTAR capabilities, runway-independent operation, long endurance, and ability to carry various types of payloads. Its advanced image processing, small logistical footprint, and navigation capabilities in GPS-denied environments further enhance its operational flexibility. The system’s ability to withstand harsh weather conditions ensures reliable performance across diverse scenarios.

The Orbiter 3 offers low life-cycle costs compared to similar systems, a lightweight design and extended endurance, making it a leading choice for many countries seeking to enhance their operational capabilities. The system’s combat-proven reliability, backed by thousands of flight hours, ensures it meets the rigorous demands of military operations. Its multi-platform compatibility allows for communal use of the same launching station and communication across various systems, facilitating seamless integration and expansion.

Dan Slasky, CEO of Aeronautics, stated, “This contract marks another important milestone with a long-standing customer.” He added, “The scalability of our system allows our partners to incrementally expand their capabilities over time, using the same proven infrastructure. This approach not only reduces costs and enables the most cutting-edge systems, but also streamlines operations for our customers.”

HENSOLDT Receives Further Fire Control Sight Order for the German Armed Forces

Wednesday, August 14th, 2024

Increase in first hit rate and system interoperability for deployed weapons

Wetzlar (Germany), 13 August 2024 – The sensor specialist HENSOLDT has received a further order for the delivery of “Dynahawk” fire control sights (FLV). The customer is the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw). The order includes deliveries this year and next, with an option for further systems in 2026. The order is worth several million euros. HENSOLDT has already supplied fire control sights in previous years.

“With the ‘Dynahawk’, we are significantly increasing the first-hit probability on dynamic and distant targets of the deployed anti-tank weapons,” says Josef Reif, Sales Manager in the Sights division. “Thanks to the FLV in conjunction with the HENSOLDT IRV-MR night vision attachment, we can also guarantee operational capability at night.”

The “Dynahawk” has a 5.5x glass optical magnification and a laser rangefinder. The ballistics computer of the fire control sight, which is equipped with sensors for environmental perception (temperature, air pressure, angular rate sensor), has several modes for engaging static and dynamic targets and automatically recognises the loaded ammunition and calculates the corresponding ballistics.

The FLV also has selection options for programming the firing point. This means that bursting or air-burst ammunition can also be used with pinpoint accuracy. 

The unique selling point of the FLV is its interoperability with the two weapon systems introduced into the Bundeswehr, the “Wirkmittel 90” (DND RGW90) and the “leichte Wirkmittel 1800+” (MBDA Enforcer). Both weapons can be fired without changes to the configuration of the “Dynahawk”.

French Navy’s Camcopter S-100 Squadron Secures WATERS During the Olympic Games 2024

Tuesday, August 13th, 2024

Vienna, 12 August 2024 – The 2024 Olympic Games were held in France this year with the French Navy CAMCOPTER® S-100 Unmanned Air System (UAS) Squadron securing the waters around Marseille for the Olympic events.

The CAMCOPTER® S-100 are stationed on board the French Navy’s Flottille 36F in Var, and monitored the vicinity of the Olympic Games, a total of 22,500 nautical square miles. Flying from Saint-Mandrier (Var), the S-100s provided the authorities with real-time data of the maritime area towards Marseille, where a number of sailing, kitesurfing and windsurfing events took place.

While conducting these operations, the S-100 was equipped with a high performance EO/IR camera and an Automatic Identification System (AIS) to monitor and detect any suspicious activities at sea.

“It is an honour that the French Navy utilised their S-100 Squadron to monitor the surroundings of the Olympic Games. This is another great use case for the CAMCOPTER® and shows the versatility of applications and capabilities“, said Lubos Sramek, Director of Schiebel Aéronaval SAS in Toulon.

10th Anniversary of Direct Action at MSPO in Kielce

Tuesday, August 13th, 2024

2024 is an exceptional year for the Direct Action brand, and we are excited to invite you to join us in celebrating a decadeof excellence in the military-tactical industry. This milestoneevent will take place during the International Defence IndustryExhibition (MSPO) in Kielce from September 3rd to 6th, 2024.

Direct Action is a brand forged by experts in modern militaryoperations, providing a deep understanding of the specificneeds of special operations forces. We don’t just design and manufacture our gear—we live and breathe it. With threeproduction facilities located in Poland, we ensure that everyproduct meets the highest standards of durability, functionality, and performance. A decade of experience hasprepared us to face any challenge ahead.

At MSPO, we will showcase our full range of products, including plate carriers with a wide array of customizableoptions. Our booth will also feature the world premiere of the Peripherical Ballistic Set, an enhancement to our lineup thatexpands the versatility of our core products. Visitors will alsohave the opportunity to see the latest 2024 releases, includingthe Curtiss Chest Rig, Flat Elastic Mag Pouches, administrative pouches (such as the Attack Pouch, JTAC Admin Pouch MKII, and Front Flap Admin Pouch), and the Counterweight/Battery Pouch for NVG spare batteries.

Key Events:

New Product Premiere: Peripherical Ballistic Set

This addition to our lineup enhances the utility of ourflagship products like plate carriers.

September 4th: Book Presentation by Krzysztof “Puwal” Puwalski

On the second day of the exhibition, join us as Krzysztof “Puwal” Puwalski, author of “Anatomy of a Warrior,”presents his latest work. Meet the author and explore hisinsights.

September 4th, 3:30 PM: Beer with Direct Action

In the afternoon, take a moment to unwind. Join us in the chill zone at our booth as we celebrate our 10th anniversary with a craft beer tasting, starting at 3:30 PM.

September 5th: Meet Amadeusz “?elazny” Szyszka

On the third day, we are honored to host our brandambassador and renowned marksman, Amadeusz “?elazny” Szyszka. This is a unique opportunity to meetone of the best in the industry, learn from hisexperiences, and gain insights into the latest gear.

Special Product Presentation

Are you interested in seeing the gear used by SOF duringreal missions? We’ve prepared a special surprise at ourbooth!

Gear Configuration Demos by ?wiru

Throughout all four days of the exhibition, JW GROM veteran ?wiru will lead product demonstrations and gearconfiguration sessions. These live showcases willhighlight the modularity and capabilities of our products.

Daily Meet and Greet with Tomasz “Lasek” Laskowski

Throughout the event, JW GROM veteran Tomasz “Lasek” Laskowski will be at our booth. We encouragevisitors to stop by, meet him, and hear about hisexperiences.

We look forward to seeing you at MSPO 2024 in Kielce!

Direct Action® at the XXXII International DefenceIndustry Exhibition MSPO 2024:

Hall: B, Booth: H-37

Date: September 3rd-6th, 2024

 

European Defence Strenghens By MKU’s Expanding Presence

Sunday, August 11th, 2024

MKU, a leading global defence and homeland security company that specialises in developing and manufacturing ballistic protection solutions and optronics solutions for defence and law enforcement agencies, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to empowering defence and law enforcement agencies across Europe.

The company has established a strong presence in Europe over the past four decades, fostering significant partnerships and collaborations. The company has supplied advanced ballistic solutions to various European forces, including 25,000 ballistic plates to Spain’s border police, over 1,000 body armours to the Estonian police force, NIJ 0108.01 Level III and NIJ Level III/IV ballistic shields to police forces in Norway and Sweden respectively and platform armouring solutions that shielded numerous German army containers.

MKU Limited’s strategic collaborations, customer-centric approach, and cutting-edge solutions have positioned the company at the forefront of empowering European defence and law enforcement agencies. By addressing the specific requirements of local forces and collaborating closely with military personnel, the company contributes to strengthening Europe’s security infrastructure and ensures the safety and protection of frontline personnel. MKU also has a cooperation and development agreement with French Major Thales to co-develop and market optronic devices and F90 close quarter battle (CQB) rifles internationally. The alliance envisages manufacturing of optronics equipment, including weapon sights, night vision goggles, hand-held thermal imagers and thermal infrared sensor engine for soldier systems, and other image intensification and thermal imaging systems for soldiers and platforms.

“WE HAVE BEEN BUILDING AND NURTURING STRONG RELATIONSHIPS IN EUROPE OVER THE LAST FOUR DECADES,

stated Mr. Neeraj Gupta, Managing Director at MKU. “Europe is an early adopter of new technology, and the European countries are constantly modernising their forces. We remain dedicated to providing innovative solutions to them and building a safer future.” With an unwavering commitment to research and development, rigorous testing processes, and state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities, MKU delivers superior-quality solutions that meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.

MKU’s dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has positioned them as a trusted partner for European defence and law enforcement agencies. Through their continuous efforts, the company is revolutionising the security landscape and ensuring a safer future for European forces and the communities they serve.

Looking ahead, MKU is committed to further strengthening its footprint in Europe through strategic investments in research and development, collaborations with leading European defence companies, and the expansion of its product portfolio. The company is actively exploring opportunities to co-develop next-generation ballistic and optronic solutions that address the evolving needs of European defence and law enforcement agencies.

www.mku.com

Support for Ukraine: Rheinmetall Receives Follow-Up Order for the Delivery of Eight Additional Forward Surgical Team Stations

Friday, August 9th, 2024

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence has commissioned Rheinmetall to deliver eight additional Forward Surgical Team stations (FST) for the country`s armed forces. The order is part of the strengthening initiative (“Ertüchtigungsinitiative”) of the Federal Government of Germany. The delivery is expected to begin in 2024 and to be completed by end 2026. The order comprises eight turnkey-ready systems, equipped with highly modern medical technology, among it an x-ray-container, an operating theatre and a unit for intensive care on the standard of a modern hospital. For transporting each rescue unit, Rheinmetall also delivers a mobile component consisting of three HGVs from Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMW) including the trailers. The order is valued in a medium double-digit million Euro range.

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “The medical care facilities from Rheinmetall are highly mobile, very fast operational and quality-wise on the highest standard. The newly placed order underlines that our first deliveries to the Ukraine concerning medical technology have proven their worth. We are happy to play an important part in supporting the Ukrainian Forces also with our medical aid”. 

In addition to the delivery of FST rescue units, is also envisaged give appropriate Ukrainian personnel a one week’s training in Germany. Already in September 2023, Rheinmetall had handed-over a mobile field hospital (NATO-Role-2-Standard) with 32 beds for patients, of which eight are for intensive care, to Ukraine. Also in this case, ten Ukrainian soldiers underwent a two-week training regarding assembly and disassembly as well as transportation and operation of the hospital. Two rescue units of the current order will be delivered by Rheinmetall end of 2023 and beginning of 2024.

The FSTs are container-based rescue units for mounted operations. They consist of six containers each. Five of which are connected to each other while in operation and have a reception, respectively a triage-area, an x-ray-shelter, a surgery preparation, a surgery-shelter as well as an intensive care unit. The support container with a power generator and water tanks can keep the system in service independently for at least 48 hours. Concerning the production of these systems, Rheinmetall cooperates with renowned German manufacturers from the medical technology sector.

The FSTs are intended for use on the front-line. There life-sustaining measures can be carried out on severely injured troops within a very short time, and the patients can be stabilized.