Tactical Tailor

Archive for the ‘International’ Category

Tomahawk Performance Expands Distribution Channels Through New Partnership with Precision Technic Defence Group

Wednesday, July 10th, 2024

Tomahawk Performance is excited to announce a new partnership with Precision Technic Defence Group, a prominent global provider of advanced defense solutions headquartered in Denmark. This strategic alliance grants Tomahawk Performance greater access to the Danish and US markets, providing an expansive range of advanced technical apparel to an even wider customer base.

“Precision Technic Defence Group shares Tomahawk Performance’s commitment to innovation and excellence, making them an ideal partner for us”, says Marcus LeFeaux, Tomahawk Performance Director of Operations. “The new partnership allows us to leverage Precision Technic Defence Group’s established network, and with their extensive reach and exceptional service record they are the perfect channel to distribute our products.”

Precision Technic Defence Group is a global leader in advanced defence solutions and a trusted, long-term supplier and partner of choice for nations, governments, armed forces, national security agencies, and law enforcement around the globe. They offer a full range of integrated solutions, including soldier systems, platform and sensor systems, unmanned systems, and C4ISR systems.

“As mission profiles continue to evolve, the demand for specialised product solutions has never been greater”, says Jeppe Müller, CoB, from Precision Technic Defence Group. “With our new partnership with Tomahawk Performance, we can now deliver a superior line of tactical apparel that enhances operational effectiveness and mission success by pushing the boundaries of human performance.”

For further information about our new partnership or the Tomahawk Performance product range now available through Precision Technic Defence Group, please email contact@tomahawkperformance.com.

ptdefence.com

info@ptdefence.com

Own the Day and Own the Night – BCB International’s Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC): A Game-Changer

Wednesday, July 10th, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of warfare, staying concealed from adversaries has always been a crucial strategy.

With advancements in technology, particularly the proliferation of drones equipped with sophisticated thermal imaging systems, the need for effective camouflage and concealment techniques has never been greater.

In this context, BCB International’s Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC) emerges as a groundbreaking technology, offering a new level of concealment for both personnel, platforms, and vehicles on the battlefield, particularly in conflict zones like Ukraine.

The Evolution of Camouflage

Camouflage techniques have come a long way from simple coloration and pattern designs to sophisticated systems that manipulate various spectra of light to blend seamlessly into the environment. Traditional camouflage, while effective against the human eye at certain distances, often falls short against the advanced sensors employed by modern surveillance systems, including drones equipped with lighter-weight, multi-spectral imaging capabilities.

Enter BCB International’s Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC)

BCB International, a leading designer and manufacturer of technical tactical equipment, has developed a revolutionary Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC) system designed to counter the most advanced surveillance technologies used in contemporary warfare.

Unlike traditional camouflage, which primarily focuses on IR and visible light, BCB’s solution operates across multiple spectra, including visual, infrared, and thermal imaging.

How it works


Thermal image of MS camo covering a hot vehicle

BCB’s MS camouflage (MSC) leverages advanced materials and technologies it has developed with a University over several years, to disrupt, deny, and deceive detection across the electromagnetic spectrum. By incorporating materials that absorb, reflect, or scatter radiation in various wavelengths, the camouflage effectively conceals personnel, large and very hot platforms like artillery, field camps, foxholes, and vehicles from detection by sensors, including drones equipped with infrared and thermal imaging systems.

Applications in the Ukrainian Conflict

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine highlights how critical effective camouflage techniques are, against relentless aerial surveillance.

Drones, now the ubiquitous tools for reconnaissance and targeting, pose a significant threat to ground forces. In this cat-and-mouse environment, BCB‘s Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC) offers a critical advantage, allowing Ukrainian forces to evade detection and operate with greater freedom and security.

Hiding Personnel

In urban environments where traditional concealment methods may be limited, Multi- spectral Camouflage enables Ukrainian soldiers to blend into their surroundings.

Whether navigating through rubble-strewn streets or taking cover in damaged buildings, personnel outfitted with BCB’s camouflage can evade detection by drones scanning for heat signatures.


Above: Drone snagged in CMDS net


Above: Aerial Thermal image of BCB Combat Net Defence System (CNDS), showing person entering

The R&D team have developed a strong specialist cam system which will stop most smaller kamikaze drones and loitering munitions from reaching their target.

Concealing Vehicles and large Assets

Armored vehicles are prime targets for enemy drones seeking to disrupt Ukrainian operations.

BCB’s Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC) can be quickly and easily fitted to and around the hot vehicles, allowing them to keep mobile.


BCB ULCAT Camo shelter

When these vehicles stop, BCB’s lightweight ULCATS “tent” can be quickly deployed rendering them virtually invisible to enemy advanced surveillance systems.

By minimizing their thermal and infrared signatures, armored convoys can move undetected through hostile territory, reducing the risk of ambushes and attacks.

Strategic Advantage

The adoption of BCB’s Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC) provides Ukrainian forces with a strategic edge in the ongoing conflict.

By enhancing their ability to evade detection and maintain operational security, soldiers can carry out missions more effectively while minimising the risk of casualties and equipment loss.


A “cloak of invisibility” for a range of assets

Moreover, a psychological impact of appearing invisible to enemy surveillance is to demoralize adversaries by undermining their confidence in their reconnaissance capabilities.

Supply chain security

BCB has manufactured NATO cam nets for the British and overseas armies for over 25 years; and other cam systems for over 35 years.

Made by BCB in the UK means they are readily available with dedicated, in-house development department, so they can be quickly customised to the users specialised needs, when required.

Looking Ahead

As warfare continues to evolve, the importance of innovative camouflage technologies cannot be overstated.

BCB’s Multi-spectral Camouflage (MSC) represents a significant advancement and comprehensive solution to the challenges posed by modern surveillance systems. As conflicts like the one in Ukraine demonstrate, the ability to remain hidden from prying eyes can tip the scales in favor of those with the most effective camouflage capabilities.

With continued research and development, our multi-spectral camouflage promises to play an increasingly vital role in the future of warfare, reshaping the dynamics of concealment and detection on the battlefield.

Further Details: Info@bcbin.com www.bcbin.com

52nd SFS Hosts International Training for Military Working Dog Handlers

Wednesday, July 10th, 2024

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany (AFNS) —  

The 52nd Security Forces Squadron Military Working Dog Section hosted U.S., German and Luxembourgish military units and law enforcement organizations for advanced interoperability training at Spangdahlem Air Base, June 26.

The training challenged the communication and command skills of the over 25 working dog teams and reinforced their ability to detect explosives and locate suspects and missing persons in a variety of environments.

“The knowledge learned from the events our teams were run through today will allow us to set forth a training plan that will strengthen our capabilities over time,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Aaron Vinson, 100th Military Police (Military Working Dog) Detachment, 709th Battalion, 18th Military Police Brigade operations noncommissioned officer.

The 52nd SFS staged multiple training simulations throughout the seminar including explosive scent detection outdoors and in low-light conditions, which required the use of night vision goggles, search and rescue, and suspect apprehension. The opportunity to work through cultural differences and training techniques increased the operability of the course overall.

“These are areas we all have some level of expertise in,” said Air Force Staff Sgt. Nathan Fortmayer, 52nd SFS/MWD Section trainer. “As the hosts, we wanted to make sure we provided teams with realistic scenarios the dog teams could very well face, so they not only get the training, but get it in a way where we all learn something from each other as a result.”

Handlers also received instruction and hands-on practice in canine tactical combat casualty care from U.S. Army veterinarians and animal care technicians assigned to Veterinary Readiness Activity Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany. Handlers practiced first-aid techniques using the Advanced K9 Medical Trainer mannequin, which is designed to simulate breathing, verbal reactions and realistic stimuli.

“To us, these dogs are much more than dogs – they’re partners,” Fortmayer said. “We care about these dogs the same way we would any of other human because they defend us with their lives. It’s critical we can help them when they are most vulnerable.”

The training included the following units: 86th Security Forces Squadron at Ramstein Air Base, U.S. Army 100th MP (MWD) Detachment at Miesau Army Ammunition Depot, as well as the German Bundeswehr, Germany’s Rhineland-Pfalz and Saarland Polizei, the Search and Rescue departments in Trier and Grand Ducal Police in Luxembourg.

SSgt Max Daigle,

52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Andrew Crickenberger to Join NIOA Group

Tuesday, July 9th, 2024

The NIOA Group has announced the appointment of leading international defence industry executive Andrew Crickenberger.

Mr Crickenberger, formerly Vice President of Strategy for L3Harris Technologies’  Aerojet Rocketdyne Segment, joins NIOA as Chief Growth Officer.

With a career spanning more than three decades as a senior executive with multi-national defence companies, Mr Crickenberger brings a wealth of experience and strategic vision to this new position.

As Chief Growth Officer, United States-based Mr Crickenberger will spearhead the NIOA Group’s efforts to capitalise on emerging opportunities in the global allied guided weapons and munitions sector.

His appointment follows NIOA’s strategic agreement with L3Harris Aerojet Rocketdyne, announced last November, to explore the co-production of critical guided weapons components under the Australian Government’s $4.1 billion Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Enterprise.

NIOA has also recently taken up residency at Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey – the US Army’s Joint Centre of Excellence for ammunition and weapons.

NIOA Group CEO Rob Nioa said Mr Crickenberger’s appointment marked an exciting new chapter for NIOA.

“We are thrilled to welcome Andrew to our executive team at a pivotal time in the next phase of our evolution as a global munitions company,” he said.

“Andrew brings vast experience in strategy development and execution which aligns perfectly with our company’s vision and global growth objectives.

“With Andrew’s leadership and deep understanding of missile systems we are confident in our ambition to accelerate a broad range of critical munitions priorities for Australia and allied partners while also strengthening our domestic defence industrial base.”

Mr Crickenberger is respected internationally in defence and aerospace circles having created strategic business partnerships in multiple countries.

Most recently, he was a founding member of the L3Harris team that led the US$4.7b acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne.

Before joining L3Harris, Mr Crickenberger had a distinguished 25-year career at Northrop Grumman where his last role was VP Strategy and Business Development for the Missile Products business unit.

He holds a MS in Engineering Mechanics and a BS in Engineering Science and Mechanics from Virginia Tech as well as multiple executive leadership certificates.

“Having worked in partnership with Rob and the NIOA team for nearly 15 years, it has been great to see the growth trajectory for the company,” Mr Crickenberger said.

“I am excited to join the team and lead the efforts to accelerate that growth in Australia, the US and into new markets such as the UK and Canada.”

Mr Crickenberger’s appointment follows the appointment earlier this year of Dan Olson, the former VP of Northrop Grumman’s Weapon Systems Division, to the NIOA Group Advisory Board.

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.

Smart Magnetics Innovation by Exxelia: Enhancing Next-Generation Resonant and Bidirectional Power Converters

Monday, July 8th, 2024

Exxelia, global manufacturer of complex passive components and subsystems introduces groundbreaking innovations in smart magnetics technology, specifically tailored for resonant bidirectional power converters. These advancements are set to redefine efficiency and performance standards across a spectrum of applications.

The advent of electrification, especially in electric or hybrid mobility including EVTOLs, buses, heavy vehicles, military/defense applications, off-road vehicles, and space thrusters, as well as electric energy storage systems & Smart Grid networks, implies the management and storage of large quantities of electrical energy. This necessitates the use of specific architectures such as DAB, LLC, and interleaved converters. These structures enable very high efficiencies.

EXXELIA SMART MAGNETICS INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY

Combines an inductor and a transformer into a single ultra-compact/miniaturized, lightweight component, regardless of the inductance value, for a seamless integration.

• High Power Applications (up to 300kW)

• High Frequency (10-500kHz): fits next-generation semiconductors (SiC, GaN) : Enables compact, lightweight designs.

• High Efficiency: minimizing losses, achieving efficiencies above 99% even at high frequencies.

• Lower Total cost of ownership: Ensuring straightforward integration and optimized system costs.

• EMI Reduction: Enhances electromagnetic compatibility for reliable operation.

TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS

3 Phase 24 kVA Integrated Component (Transformer + Inductors) 360/27 V @ 100kHz

– Incorporates Series Inductors (18?H)

– Withstands Net Bias Current 10% of Load Current

– Size 1085cc, Mass 3.86kg

Dual Active Bridge Transformer 2kW / 10:1 / 300 kHz and Chokes 10?H

– Incorporates Series Inductors 10?H ? Size 40x40x40 mm, Mass 250g

Meet the Challenges in Converter Development:

• Miniaturization: Designing smaller systems without compromising performance.

• Thermal Management: Efficiently managing heat to enhance durability and efficiency.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Balancing efficiency enhancements with cost-effective solutions.

Exxelia’s commitment to the development of these new technologies shows its willingness to anticipate the needs of advances power electronics.

For more information on Exxelia’s smart magnetics innovations, visit Exxelia’s website.

This project was financed by the government as part of the Recovery plan.

Overwatch Group and PteroDynamics Ink Strategic Relationship

Friday, July 5th, 2024

Companies Sign Exclusive Distribution Agreement for Transwing® VTOL UAS in the UK, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates

Overwatch Group, a UK-based end-to-end design and manufacture company specialising in advanced unmanned system and munitions technologies, and PteroDynamics Inc., an innovator in vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft systems, today announced a landmark long-term strategic relationship and the first distribution agreement to bring the pioneering dual-use autonomous Transwing® (VTOL) to certain territories outside the United States. Overwatch will be the exclusive sales representative of the Transwing® unmanned aerial systems (UAS) aircraft on behalf of PteroDynamics within the United Kingdom (UK) for all non-commercial sales, and in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for all prospective commercial and defence sales. Overwatch has also made a strategic investment in PteroDynamics.

As the first distributor for this technology, Overwatch will help expand the employment of the Transwing® aircraft platform outside the United States, starting in the UK, UAE, and KSA. Overwatch will bring its engineering expertise in unmanned systems and payloads to satisfy requirements for potential customers in these territories.

PteroDynamics’ Transwing® is a revolutionary VTOL aircraft system that overcomes the limitations inherent in other VTOL designs by marrying the speed, range, and endurance of fixed-wing aircraft with superior VTOL performance in an efficient, highly automated platform. The aircraft folds its wings to transition seamlessly between vertical and winged horizontal flight, requires no additional launch and recovery infrastructure, and occupies a minimal footprint, making it immediately ready for VTOL operations out of the box. Its unique performance characteristics provide defence and commercial operators with a more cost-effective, autonomous alternative for critical logistics resupply and other missions to remote locations without runways, which are currently undertaken by crewed aircraft, boats, or other less practical means.

Prototypes of the Transwing® are currently under assessment by the U.S. Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAVAIR NAWCAD) for the Blue Water Maritime Logistics UAS (BWUAS) program for automated long-range maritime resupply missions. Automating maritime logistics and resupply also represents a significant opportunity for commercial operators. Unplanned downtime of offshore oil and gas production results in average losses of U.S. $49M per year per producer, and nearly 100,000 commercial sea-going vessels of more than 100 gross tons make 4.4 million ports of call yearly, each time requiring deliveries prior to coming to port, which are costly and difficult to schedule.

Drew Michael, CEO at Overwatch Group said, “We are extremely proud to have secured our long- term strategic relationship with PteroDynamics. Both companies are dynamic engineering enterprises that design and manufacture unique, patented technology from the ground up. Our R&D of cutting-edge payload technologies continues to gather pace as we develop our next generation of drones, and we now wish to extend our expertise into wider markets. Having assessed the market, the Transwing® stood out as transformational dual-use technology, and the whole of Overwatch is excited by how we will enhance it.”

Matthew Graczyk, CEO at PteroDynamics said, “PteroDynamics’ ability to build successful working strategic relationships with leaders in our industry enables us to accelerate innovation and build the solutions that solve the critical unmet needs of our customers. Not only does Overwatch have deep domain experience in avionics and aero-mechanical engineering, but their ties with commercial and defence customers in the UK, KSA, and UAE will prove to be a game-changing advantage for both companies. We are excited to work closely with Overwatch and look forward to growing this important strategic relationship.”

Milrem Robotics Establishes a Centre of Excellence for Ground Robotics in Poland

Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024

Milrem Robotics, the world’s leading robotics and autonomous systems developer, has established a centre of excellence for ground robotics in Poland. This strategic expansion aims to strengthen the company’s presence in different regions of Europe and accelerate product development.

The new engineering hub in Warsaw will serve as a centre for innovation and collaboration, bringing together top engineering talent from the capital and the surrounding region. The hub will focus on designing and developing advanced robotic systems that address the evolving needs of Milrem Robotics’ customers. The new engineering hub will start with 20+ engineers already in July and is determined to grow rapidly.

Establishing the hub underscores Milrem Robotics’ commitment to the European market, supporting economic growth and technological advancement.

“Poland has a rich tradition of engineering quality and innovation, making it an ideal location for our new centre of excellence. This investment reinforces our commitment to the region and enables us to leverage local talent and expertise to drive forward our mission of developing state-of-the-art robotic solutions,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.

Michal Ossowski, Local Team Lead at the Warsaw Hub, added: “We are thrilled to be part of Milrem Robotics’ expansion into Poland. Our team of more than 20 specialists is eager to contribute to the development of groundbreaking technologies and to collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry. This hub will strengthen our capabilities and provide exciting career prospects for engineers passionate about robotics and autonomous systems.”

Milrem Robotics is the world-leading robotics and autonomous systems developer and systems integrator, with offices in Estonia, Finland, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the US. The company is known for its THeMIS UGV, the Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle, and MIFIK, the autonomous functionalities kit for defence platforms.

The company is also renowned for successfully completing the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP) project iMUGS, which focused on developing a modular and scalable architecture for hybrid manned-unmanned systems.

Gray Fox Strategic – FLUX Capacitor Holster

Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024

At last month’s Operator Expo in Ottawa, Gray Fox Strategic showed me their FLUX Capacitor holster for the FLUX Defense Raider. Now that SIG SAUER has announced (and shipping) the P320-FLUX Legion, it has become more attainable for a wider audience and the desire for holster options is growing. Talk about serendipity.

The Capacitor features universal mounting and adjustable retention and was designed to fit the Raider with or without rails as well as with a limited number of lights.  It is open ended to work with a variety of slides and compensators.  Their three retention screws as well as a few strategic catch points keep the Raider nice and secure in the holster.

Gray Fox Strategic holsters are built to order and the options list is quite expensive. Currently lead time for holsters is about three weeks.

grayfoxstrategic.ca/products/flux-capacitor