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AeroVironment Awarded $10.5 Million Puma LE Unmanned Aircraft Systems Foreign Military Sales Contract for U.S. Ally

Tuesday, February 15th, 2022

• Puma LE (Long Endurance) provides Group 2 capabilities in a Group 1 footprint and features up to 6.5 hours of flight endurance for an extended time on station – all in a two-case mission packout

• Customer joins growing number of allied government forces fielding AeroVironment’s advanced, battle-proven small unmanned aircraft systems

• Foreign Military Sales program promotes interoperability among U.S. and allied forces for joint operations

Puma LE weighs only 23.5 pounds (10.7 kilograms) and is launchable by hand or bungee, making it easy to deploy and recover in any environment. (Image: AeroVironment, Inc.)

ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 9, 2022 – AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV) a global leader in intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems, today announced it received a $10,534,348 firm-fixed-price U.S. Department of Defense Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract award on Jan. 21, 2022. The contract includes the delivery of Puma™ LE small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) over a six-year period to an allied nation, as well as add-on air vehicle kits, initial spares packages, training and support.

“With the adoption of Puma LE and other AeroVironment small UAS, customers are equipping their frontline forces with the ability to see and operate beyond the horizon, gathering on-demand intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance that can ultimately save lives,” said Trace Stevenson, AeroVironment vice president and product line general manager for small UAS.

Weighing only 23.5 pounds (10.7 kilograms), the ultra-lightweight Puma LE is hand or bungee launchable. The aircraft comes equipped with the Mantis™ i45 gimbaled EO/IR sensor suite and secondary payload bay with dedicated power supply and Ethernet for a total payload capacity of 5.5 pounds (2.5 kilograms). On-board batteries provide up to 6.5 hours of flight endurance with an operational range of 37.2 miles (60 kilometers) when used with AeroVironment’s Long-Range Tracking Antenna (LRTA) and Puma Smart 2500 Battery.

AeroVironment’s small UAS comprises the majority of all unmanned aircraft in the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) inventory, and its rapidly growing international customer base numbers more than 50 allied governments. To learn more, visit www.avinc.com.

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UF PRO Reimagines the Iconic M65 Parka and Creates the M2 Parka, Available for Purchase Soon

Tuesday, February 15th, 2022

TRZIN, SLOVENIA (15 February 2022)—UF PRO today unveiled its new survival jacket, the M2 Parka. The garment is designed to be the all-in-one survival jacket for use in cold, moderately rainy conditions.

Company sources revealed that the M2 Parka is based on the design of the iconic M65 parka.

“The M65 was in its time one of the finest survival jackets ever made, but it lacked features that today’s operators want and need,” a UF PRO official said. “So we reimagined the M65 as a parka for today and named it the M2.”

The company explained that the spark-resistant, near-totally noiseless M2 Parka is constructed of comfortable yet rugged EtaProof® fabric, an advanced-technology cotton blend that keeps out moderate precipitation and wind while at the same time preserving interior warmth.

The parka’s hood is a waterproof, two-layer PU laminate attached by means of UF PRO’s innovative Hood/Harness® system. The Hood/Harness® system prevents the headpiece from obstructing field of view when the wearer looks up, down, and side-to-side.

Other key features include multiple oversized pockets and anti-thermal bridge air/pac® padding.

According to UF PRO insiders, the M2 Parka is priced at 399€ and is available in Olive or Black colour.

The M2 Parka will be available for purchase at the company’s online store here.

For more information, contact UF PRO at: support@ufpro.si

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, International, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Launching Tomorrow Special Project – 2nd Bn, Parachute Regiment Watch from Pagoda

Tuesday, February 15th, 2022

Limited to just 400 pieces, this Special Project version of the Pagoda Watches Tactical Alpha Model honors the UK’s famed 2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment. Each watch can be personalized with the owner’s ZAP number.

Pagoda is a veteran owned company and their watches are made in Switzerland. The Tactical Alpha Model features crystal clear hands, an anti-catch crown and a lowered profile to avoid getting hung up on kit or clothing. Waterproof to 200m, it incorporates a gunmetal PVD coated stainless steel case and rubber strap.

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Milrem Robotics Delivered the THeMIS Combat UGV to Thailand

Monday, February 14th, 2022

At the end of last year, the European leading robotics and autonomous systems developer Milrem Robotics delivered the THeMIS Combat unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) to the Defence Technology Institute (DTI). The Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV), as it is known, will be tested and evaluated by the Royal Thai Army and DTI in the near future.

The RCV comprises of the THeMIS UGV and the R400S – Mk2-HD Remote Weapon Station (RWS) by the Australian Space and Defence company Electro Optic Systems (EOS). The RWS also includes the Northrop Grumman M230 LF cannon. Milrem Robotics is also the system integrator for the RCV.

“It’s our honour to be the robotic systems partner with Royal Thai Army and DTI. This is a significant delivery and deployment for the Milrem THeMIS. It demonstrates that the THeMIS can master very challenging environments. Also, the successful integration of a 30 mm weapon system brings THeMIS’ firepower to the next level. Cooperation with DTI will grow the local robotic technology capabilities in Thailand in terms of the local assembly and system integration,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.

The THeMIS Combat UGVs provide direct fire support for manoeuvre forces and act as a force multiplier. With an integrated self-stabilizing remote-controlled weapon system, they provide high precision over wide areas, day and night, increasing stand-off distance, force protection and survivability. THeMIS Combat UGVs can be equipped with light or heavy machine guns, 40 mm grenade launchers and Anti-Tank Missile Systems.

The THeMIS UGV has already been acquired by 12 countries, including several NATO members. In addition to providing the unmanned vehicle, Milrem Robotics, in cooperation with end-users, is engaged in several systems integration projects.

Milrem Robotics is the leading European robotics and autonomous systems developer and systems integrator. The company is known for its THeMIS and Multiscope Unmanned Ground Vehicles and the Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle. The THeMIS supports dismounted troops while the Multiscope is intended for civilian use such as forestry and firefighting. The Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle is a wingman for mechanized units.

Milrem Robotics is the leader of a consortium that was awarded 30.6M (EUR) from the European Commission’s European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP) to develop a European standardized unmanned ground system (UGS).

During the project, titled iMUGS, modular and scalable architecture for hybrid manned-unmanned systems will be developed to standardize a European wide ecosystem.

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

Autonomous Vehicles Carrying Critical Supplies Could be Key to Reducing Risk to Life in Combat Zone

Thursday, February 10th, 2022

Three companies have won contracts worth £3 million each to accelerate autonomous capability that could be used to safely deliver mission-critical supplies to troops engaged in combat territory known as the ‘last mile’.

The British Army tasked the Future Capability Group (FCG) at Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), the procurement arm of the MOD, with investigating potential solutions for autonomous ‘Last mile supply’ – the delivery of combat supplies crucial to operational success in combat zones.

This work followed a successful first stage investigation by the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) and Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl).

The FCG was set up by DE&S to pull through technology at pace and accelerate acquisition at value for money to ensure the UK Armed Forces are provided with the equipment needed to counter ever evolving threats.

Under Project Theseus, it is hoped the use of self-driving air or ground platforms to deliver supplies, including ammunition, clothes, food and fuel, will reduce the need for personnel to risk their life by entering into what are typically hostile environments.

As well as vehicles, FCG see the essential inclusion of dynamic autonomous processing, ordering and delivering fuels, foodstuff and other stores so that troops to have the ‘ease of an Amazon style delivery service’ where they need it most.

Under a potentially ground-breaking commercial model, FCG were able to use a novel process to rigorously evaluate autonomous capabilities from more than 50 primes and SMEs before awarding three contracts totalling £9 million pounds to:

• Horiba Mira (UK)

• Marlborough Comms Ltd (UK)

• Rafael (Israel)

The contracts will help the companies accelerate the development of their systems to try and meet further challenges set by FCG and the British Army.

James Gavin, Head FCG at DE&S, said:

“Our team used a dynamic commercial approach to stimulate industry and draw in over 50 companies who have key technologies in this area. They then worked with pace and agility to identify three suppliers offering potential solutions from a vast amount of industry specialists.

“This project is also a success for the MOD innovation ecosystem. Dstl and DASA stimulated the market and proved the first stages of this project, with Army HQ asking DE&S to explore and accelerate this promising capability area towards exploitation.”

Major Matt McGarvey-Miles, SO2C Robotic and Autonomous Systems, Future Force Development added:

“Robotic and Autonomous System capabilities will play an increasing role in delivering deployed sustainment in the near-future; doing so will increase combat power through increasing mass and tempo of resupply, as well as reducing risk-to-life for our people, leading to an increased probability of mission success.”

Project THESEUS, a two-year Defence Transformation Fund project, is also exploiting the innovation, findings and technology demonstrator investigations delivered by the Dstl Autonomous Last Mile Re-Supply (ALMRS) project.

As reported last month, under Theseus the British Army are exploring using robotic dogs to support troops in dangerous and complex urban environments. The platforms would be used to navigate rough terrain, help deliver supplies in war zones and investigate bombs, significantly reducing the risk to personnel.

MoD DE&S

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Norway’s Oskar Pedersen AS Wins Nordic Combat Uniform Contract

Wednesday, February 9th, 2022

After years of trials a winner has been selected in the Nordic Combat Uniform program which aims to provide a common uniform system for the armed forces of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. This is the first time the four nations have let a single contract under their Nordic Defense Cooperation (NORDEFCO) framework.

Earlier this week FMA the Defense Material Agency (Forsvarsmateriell) signed a seven-year contract with Norway’s Oskar Pedersen AS worth up to 425 million Euros. The Norwegians plan to purchase 15,000 uniform systems at 15000 kroner each. Oskar Pedersen AS will provide the clothing and Layers AS will serve as project manager.

With designs to accommodate both male and female troops, components include garments for cold-wet environments as well as Desert and Jungle settings.

Subcontractors include Siamidis SA, which is responsible for technical solutions and manufacturers of combat suits and garments for cold and rain, W.L Gore & Associates GmbH is the system’s technical supplier and Aclima AS & Woolpower AB, which is responsible for wool underwear.

Although the Nordic militaries will adopt the same layout of uniforms, each of the countries will procure versions of the outerwear in their national camouflage patterns.

This is a joint procurement carried out by the Danish Ministry of Defense’s procurement and logistics organization (DALO), the Finnish Defense Logistics Command (FDFLOGCOM), the Norwegian Defense Materiel Administration (NDMA) and the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV). Although Iceland is a member of NORDEFCO, they are not participating in the NCU program.

Deliveries should begin as early as the end of this year.

Crye Precision was one of the competitors in this program and their offerings are being commercialized as the Alpine Terrain Operations line.

Posted in Clothing, Contracts, International | 9 Comments »

Saab Awarded Indian Contract for AT4 Support Weapon

Monday, February 7th, 2022

Saab’s AT4 weapon has been selected by the Indian Armed Forces through a competitive programme for a single-shot weapon. AT4 will be used by the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.

The Indian Armed Forces are a new customer for AT4. This order includes the AT4CS AST, which can be fired from confined spaces such as from inside buildings, bunkers and other urban environments. The AT4CS AST offers a tandem warhead with a breach or blast mode, which is optimised to defeat enemies within buildings and to destroy structures, which can create a point of access into them.

The contract was signed by FFV Ordnance AB, responsible for Saab’s Ground Combat offer in India.

“We are honoured that the Indian Armed Forces, which are already users of our Carl-Gustaf system, have also selected Saab for their single-shot weapon need. The Indian Army and Indian Air Force can be confident in the knowledge that they have the necessary firepower to give them the advantage,” says Görgen Johansson, Head of Saab’s business area Dynamics.

AT4 is one of the most popular and successful support weapon families on the market. Operated by a single soldier, this single-shot system has proven efficacy against structures, landing craft, helicopters, armoured vehicles and personnel. Its 84 mm calibre warhead offers enhanced power and performance.

www.saab.com

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8th Annual Future Soldier Technology Conference and Exhibition

Monday, February 7th, 2022

LONDON, LONDON, UK – There is only one month left for the 8th Annual Future Soldier Technology Conference and Exhibition to return to London on March 8-10, 2022 along with The State of the Dismounted Soldier Awareness Focus Day on March 7, 2022.

As the world’s leading meeting dedicated to promoting the technology of the late soldier, Future Soldier Technology 2022 will provide an attractive network space to foster new business relationships and discuss current requirements and experiences in equipment modernization.

This event usually sells out early – for those interested in attending the conference, it is advised to register soon to avoid disappointment. Register at www.futuresoldiertechnology.com/pr2.

Delegates will have the opportunity to hear key updates on future soldier programs from these countries: UK, France, Portugal, Canada, Australia, Netherlands, Sweden, Germany, USA and more.

Featured presentations include:

• Brigadier General Matthew Kansdale, Head of Future Force Development, British Army, presents: “Soldier of the Future: Transforming the British Army

• Lieutenant-Colonel Sebastien Jasnier, Deputy Branch, Department of Doctrinal and Advanced Studies of the Infantry, School of Infantry of the French Armed Forces, Presentation: Increasing Awareness of the Soldier’s Mortal and Dismantled Condition through Improving Weapons Optics

• Major Pedro Miguel Martins Grifo, Staff Officer (Area Coordinator – C4I, ISTAR, EW) Capabilities Branch, Portuguese Army*, Presentation: Development of Disassembled Portuguese Soldiers Systems to Enhance Situation Awareness

• Major Philip Riom, Soldier System Project Manager, Land Requirements Directorate, Canadian Armed Forces, Presentation: Improving Soldier Maneuverability through the Canadian ISSP

• Colonel Michael Basingthwaite, Army Adviser, London, Australian Defense Staff, Presentation: Promoting Situational Awareness for the Disbanded Australian Soldier

• Colonel Jan H. Funk, Program Leader STRONG, Defense Materials Organization, Dutch Ministry of Defense and Ms. Elsie Crosen, Director of System Integration Single Soldier, Defense Materiel Organization, Dutch Armed Forces Presentation: Strong Program: Strengthening the Capabilities of the Dutch Separate Soldier

• Major Magnus Hallberg, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Digital Security Support System (LCD DSS), NATO/Swedish Armed Forces, Presentation: Development of the future NATO Soldiers System

• Mr. Geert Vanlenthout, Program Director, Night Vision Capability Program, OCCAR-EA, Presentation: OCCAR: Enhancing Night Vision Capacity for Participating Countries

• Lt. Col. Denny Drich, PdM PEO Ground Soldier Systems, PEO Soldier, US Army, Presentation: Transforming a Soldier’s Awareness of Conditions through the Nett Warrior IVAS Program

*Subject to final confirmation

The full agenda and speaker line is available at www.futuresoldiertechnology.com/pr2.

Future Soldiers Technology Conference
Conference: 8-9 March 2022
Pre-Conference Focus Day: 7 March 2022
Main Sponsor: Glenair | Golden Sponsor: Thales | Sponsors and exhibitors: 3M, Bren-Tronics, Domo Tactical Communications, Excelitas Qioptiq, FalCom, Instro Precision, L3Harris, Marlborough Communications, Silvus Technologies, Steatite, Teleplan Globe, Ultra Electronics

For inquiries related to sponsorship and exhibition, contact Sadia Malik Saadia Malik, Director at: +44 (0) 20 7827 6748 or email smalick@smi-online.co.uk

For delegate inquiries, contact James Hitchen at: +44 (0) 20 7827 6054 or email jhitchen@smi-online.co.uk

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