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Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck Opens Drone Factory and Development Hub of German Manufacturer Quantum During Delegation Trip to Ukraine

Friday, April 19th, 2024

Berlin, Germany – 18 April 2024 – On the occasion of a delegation trip to Ukraine, Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Robert Habeck opened the new production facility of Quantum-Systems GmbH in Ukraine. The plant opening took place on 18 April in the presence of the Ukrainian Minister of Strategic Industry, Oleksandr Kamyshin, and the Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Defence, Ivan Hawryliuk.

Continuous support of Ukraine

Quantum Systems attracted attention at an early stage of the war of aggression by Russia with its engagement for Ukraine. The company is expanding this commitment with the new local production facility. The European drone champion from Munich, Germany, has been supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces with the delivery of its reconnaissance drones and operates a local service, support, training and logistics center with 25 Ukrainian employees. They train drone pilots and implement technological advancements in the reconnaissance systems directly on site.

The Quantum Systems Vector reconnaissance drones have been in use in Ukraine since May 2022. So far, 212 systems have been made available through the German Enablement Initiative. By the end of the year, a total of 500 Quantum Systems reconnaissance drones are expected to have been delivered to Ukraine. The new production facility is expected to increase production capacity to up to 1,000 drones yearly including spare part production.

Investing up to six million euros

The new plant will be the company’s second site in Ukraine and is expected to employ around 100 people by the end of the year. Quantum Systems is investing up to 6 million euros over the next two years. For the company, this is a vote of confidence in Ukraine and its employees there, and at the same time a sign of the company’s own commitment to providing Ukraine with long-term support in the defence of its country.

Quantum Systems currently produces as a dual-use company with around 250 employees at three locations for the civil and public sector. The production facility in Ukraine is the fourth plant among a total of seven locations worldwide.

Posted in International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck Opens Drone Factory and Development Hub of German Manufacturer Quantum During Delegation Trip to Ukraine

Milrem Robotics Awarded Contract to Deliver THeMIS UGVs to Japan

Wednesday, April 17th, 2024

Milrem Robotics, Europe’s leading robotics and autonomous systems developer, has been awarded a contract to supply the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Forces with THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles.

The company will supply Japan with three THeMIS UGVs configured for various tasks, including supply transportation and intelligence gathering. The vehicles are equipped with Milrem’s Intelligent Functions Kit (MIFIK), enabling them to execute on- and off-road operations independently. MIFIK allows UGV operators to plan missions using waypoint navigation and set en-route vehicle behaviours.

MIFIK is used strictly for vehicle mobility.

“The goal of the Ground Self-Defense Forces is to fundamentally strengthen its defence capabilities with unmanned assets in order to gain asymmetric superiority while limiting human losses. A task to which UGVs are uniquely qualified,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.

“We are honoured that the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Forces has selected us to support them in increasing thecombat effectiveness of their ground forces through advanced robotics and achieving their capability goals,” he added.

THeMIS UGVs were selected by the Japan Ministry of Defense as a target of the newly introduced Rapid Acquisition Program. Milrem Robotics will provide maximum support for Japan to be equipped as soon as possible.

In addition, THeMIS UGVs were chosen because they utilise cutting-edge technology and have already been adopted in 16 countries, including eight NATO countries: Estonia, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, the UK, and the US. THeMIS UGVs are also assisting Ukrainian soldiers in the war with Russia.

It is expected that THeMIS UGVs will provide new ways to keep more soldiers safe and make operations more efficient for the Japan Self-Defense Forces.

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Milrem Robotics Awarded Contract to Deliver THeMIS UGVs to Japan

Kromek Shows the Value of Innovation and R&D to Demonstrate New Capabilities at International Events and Win Further Orders

Tuesday, April 16th, 2024

Kromek, the designer and manufacturer of radiological and biological detectors, based in Sedgefield Co. Durham, premiered its “remote mode” for its ground-breaking D5 RIID at Security & Policing held in Farnborough, UK, in March 2024.

The D5 RIID is the most sensitive portable detector produced by Kromek. Its “remote mode” allows it to becarried by an uncrewed ground vehicle. Its long endurance and networked capability means that it can explore potentially contaminated sites and can loiter to scan continuously for radioactive material without putting a human operator in harm’s way. Following recent research and development (R&D) initiatives, the latest technical enhancements to the D5 RIID programme were shown to senior officials in the Ministry of Defence, Police forces and first responders at Security & Policing.

Meanwhile, at the CBRNe Summit Europe in Budapest, Hungary, Mari Tuomela, Kromek’s Head of Sales (EMEA & APAC), demonstrated the D5 RIID (and its additional probe for detecting Alpha and Beta isotopes – another product of innovative R&D) with live sources. The audience was astonished at the speed of isotope identification and also that the device detected the very weakest of sources.

Kromek’s Commercial Director Craig Duff reflects: “The evolution of the D5 RIID, with both the addition of external probes and the ability to mount the detector on an uncrewed ground vehicle for remote operation, demonstrates the benefits of continuous in-house research and development. Our products can be adapted at pace to meet the changing requirements in this complex international political and threat environment.”

Duff’s comments were reinforced by the announcement at the end of March of a further $2.1m order for detectors for the security screening market from a previous OEM customer, where joint R&D had resulted in the original contract, and by a presentation at the Waste Management Symposia 24 in Arizona, USA, on how Kromek’s CZT detectors have been adapted by researchers at the University of Bristol to be carried by drones for wide area scanning and detection.

Back in the European Union, Kromek D3S detectors were deployed in Belgium, on 9th April to secure the launch of the Festival of the New European Bauhaus 2024, at the Brussels Art and History Museum, attended by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and other dignitaries.

www.kromek.com

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Wilcox Industries to Supply the Hybrid Patriot 5510 and BlueForce System to the Indonesian Korps Brigade Mobil Unit

Monday, April 15th, 2024

NEWINGTON, NH – In March of 2024, the Korps Brigade Mobil Unit (commonly known as Brimob), the Special Operations Unit of the Indonesian National Police (Polri), awarded a second contract to purchase Wilcox Hybrid Patriot 5510 Life Support Systems adding to the existing inventory of units already in operation. These additional units along with the units provided in previous years are all equipped with the BlueForce Tactical’s BTAC and Command Center Software System.

The Wilcox Hybrid Patriot 5510 Life Support System is the most advanced hybrid multimode protection respiratory system available on the market today. Originally developed and produced under a classified program by Wilcox and the US Navy in year 2000, the first generation of this hybrid system was exclusively provided to select specialty US Navy units. Following the declassification of the program shortly after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Wilcox was able to offer this hybrid system to military and first responders worldwide. This unique hybrid configuration extends the mission profile significantly in comparison with any other product on the market today, safeguarding the end-user against any CBRN attacks on their homelands. Wilcox partnered with BlueForce Development Group has developed a networked system that is a state-of-the-art command post which can monitor the end-user’s physiological state, the status of the system assets as the mission progresses.

The rigorous selection process and subsequent award were achieved through collaboration and support via our Master Distributor for the APAC Region, Aquaterro – Advanced Product Supplies and Indonesian In-country dealer, PT. Skotfire & Safety Technology. Manufacturing the Hybrid Patriot 5510® will take place at Wilcox’s expanding headquarters facility in Newington, NH, USA.

In response to the award, James Teetzel, CEO, of Wilcox stated, “We are very excited to learn of this contract award. Any time a customer reorders a product, it is always a strong indicator that Wilcox is providing the right product, at the right price backed by our amazing customer service team. It is great to see!”

For more information about the Hybrid Patriot 5510®, BlueForce Software and other Wilcox respirator devices, visit www.wilcoxind.com/LifeSupport .

For information on all other Wilcox and Wilcox Products, visit Wilcox’ website at: www.wilcoxind.com or call: 603-431-1331.

Posted in Advertiser, CBRNE, Contracts, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Wilcox Industries to Supply the Hybrid Patriot 5510 and BlueForce System to the Indonesian Korps Brigade Mobil Unit

Williams Launches New Company to Solve Clients’ Engineering Challenges with F1-Derived Innovation and Pedigree

Sunday, April 14th, 2024

Williams is proud to announce the launch of a new company that will apply the cutting-edge innovation and technologies of F1 to tackling clients’ engineering challenges in other sectors.

Drawing on lessons learned over almost 50 years at the pinnacle of motorsport, Williams Grand Prix Technologies will bring a laser focus to solving clients’ problems using world-leading engineering capabilities.

Sitting alongside Williams Racing, and also owned by Dorilton Capital, the new company will be based at the team’s technology campus in Grove, UK.

Racing in Formula 1 involves a lightning-fast development cycle, taking a car from concept to competition in less than 12 months. Williams Racing is one of the most successful teams in F1 history, with nine Constructors’ Championships, seven Drivers’ Championships and 114 race wins.

Williams Grand Prix Technologies will offer this innovation-led approach and extraordinary pedigree to a wide range of new sectors including wider motorsport, premium automotive, aerospace, defence, marine, energy, sport and lifestyle.

Clients will be able to draw on the resources, assets, skillsets, technologies and talent available to the racing team to unlock new performance and potential in their businesses. Williams Grand Prix Technologies will also work closely with Williams Racing’s technology suppliers and partners to bring advanced solutions in simulation intelligence and data engineering to clients.

A mix of highly-skilled people and unique engineering assets will combine to offer services including: platform dynamics; advanced materials; simulation and modelling; instrument and data analytics and high performance computing. Sitting alongside these core engineering services is a range of in-house prototype testing and evaluation resources that include: wind tunnel; driver-in-the-loop simulator; single-axis testing machines; 8-post rig; chassis rig; other testing rigs and bedplate testing. Whilst originally developed for the purposes of the race team, these capabilities and assets have far wider applicability which the new company will harness.

Prior to the establishment of Williams Grand Prix Technologies in 2024, Williams also had other business interests beyond F1 racing. Williams owned a majority stake in Williams Hybrid Power Limited and also established Williams Advanced Engineering – both businesses took technology developed for F1 and adapted it for multiple commercial applications. Williams Hybrid Power was sold to GKN in March 2014 and Williams Advanced Engineering was sold to Fortescue in February 2022.

Matthew Savage, Chairman at Williams Grand Prix Engineering Limited, said: “We are delighted to be establishing Williams Grand Prix Technologies, bringing F1-derived innovation and pedigree to a wide range of other sectors. Williams Grand Prix Technologies offers a unique mix of engineering experience, expertise and capabilities to solve customers’ problems and we have already received significant interest from a diverse set of clients even before launch. We will be using skills and assets that have been established, developed and refined over five decades of competing at the highest level of motor racing on a global stage, which is a unique pedigree that only Williams can offer. Being part of the wider Dorilton group of companies also allow Williams Grand Prix Technologies to offer services from across the group to further enhance the technologies and services available to the customer”.

www.williamsgptech.com

Posted in Industry, International, Mobility, Press Release | 6 Comments »

Revolutionizing Helmet Protection: Send Nods Introduces AirPads, an Innovative Ballistic Helmet Pad System

Saturday, April 13th, 2024

Send Nods Nightvision a pioneering leader in defense industry innovation, proudly announces the launch of AirPads, a groundbreaking ballistic helmet pad system engineered to set new standards in head protection technology.

Inspired by the advanced 3D printed padding utilized in American sports helmets, entrepreneur Tim Pausch recognized an opportunity to adapt this cutting-edge technology for combat helmets. After a year of meticulous development, Send Gear Group unveils AirPads, a revolutionary solution designed to address the unique challenges faced by military and law enforcement personnel.

The AirPads system consists of nine individual lattice pads meticulously crafted using additive manufacturing technology. Unlike traditional foam pads, AirPads are engineered to withstand and dissipate the diverse forces encountered in combat scenarios. This innovative design ensures optimal shock absorption, stability, and comfort, even under the most demanding conditions.

“We started developing it and it took about a year to perfect because ballistic and bump trauma is completely different from sports impact,” says Tim Pausch, founder of Send Gear Group. “So our lattice structure padding needed to withstand and dissipate other types of forces.”

Tested rigorously to meet the highest industry standards, AirPads have undergone extensive trials based on VPAM 6, 7, and 9, as well as the NIJ test Protocol . The results speak for themselves – AirPads not only reduce back face deformation but also minimize trauma to the head to nearly zero. Field tests conducted with professionals ranging from police officers to special forces personnel have demonstrated the unparalleled effectiveness of AirPads in real-world scenarios.

Central to the success of AirPads is the innovative Carbon Digital Light Synthesis (DLS) process utilized in their manufacturing. This advanced additive manufacturing technique enables the creation of intricate lattice structures that are impossible to achieve through traditional manufacturing methods. Coupled with proprietary materials such as EPU43, AirPads offer unmatched performance and durability, surpassing conventional foam padding in both technical specifications and comfort.

“The Additive Manufacturing Process DLS from Carbon allows us to create unique lattice structures that are not possible to manufacture in any other way,” explains Pausch. “The 2 component materials of Carbon use special mechanics and specifications which are not comparable to any other 3D print materials on the market.”

Designed to accommodate different head shapes and sizes while adapting to various mission requirements, AirPads represent a paradigm shift in helmet protection technology. With unmatched shock absorption, superior comfort, and temperature regulation, AirPads ensure comprehensive protection for those on the front lines of modern warfare.

For more information about AirPads and Send Nods Nightvision innovative defense solutions, visit www.send-nods.com

Posted in Helmets, International | 3 Comments »

British Army Signs New Contract for Saab Instrumented Live Training Capability

Friday, April 12th, 2024

Saab has signed an initial three-year contract with the UK Ministry of Defence, for the provision of support to Live Simulation systems with ILT-D (Instrumented Live Training), valued at £60M and options to extend until 2030.

The ILT-D contract, replaces the previous DFWES (Direct Fire Weapon Effect Simulator) contract. ILT-D supports high fidelity systems that use a blend of laser and geometric pairing technology to simulate direct and indirect fire effects. This data rich capability provides objective feedback which is used to inform the After Action Review (AAR) process and validate training.

The contract includes a significant investment in extending the life of the capability to provide the UK MoD with the most modern system available. This ensures it remains relevant to the British Army’s evolving training needs, addresses obsolescence issues, and continues to be interoperable with partner nations through exploitation of the latest generation of Saab hardware and software.

Support will be continued across permanent Collective Training locations in the UK and Germany, as well as at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick, Infantry Battle School in Brecon and the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines.

“As Saab Training and Simulation marks 30 years of collaboration with the British Army, we are delighted that ILT-D is in place to support training for the next epoch. This contract exemplifies our commitment to delivering world leading live simulation capabilities at the point of need, so the UK can conduct training as both a deterrence and reassurance around the globe,” said James Passmore, VP Director of Marketing and Sales, Saab UK.

“Our collaboration with Saab UK builds on the long-standing relationship and represents the dedication DE&S and the British Army have to providing the best training possible for our dedicated soldiers. Ahead of the Collective Training Transformation Programme, ILT-D will ensure that the British Army has access to a training capability that is able to keep pace with the training needs bought about by an increasingly complex strategic context and rapidly evolving character of warfare,” said Simon Pearce, Training and Simulation Systems Portfolio Leader for Defence Equipment & Support, the contracting authority.

With interoperability and deployability at its core, Saab’s Live Simulation Systems have a growing global user community. The British Army has recently deployed its Saab systems around the world including overseas exercises delivered in Finland, Sweden, Estonia, Kenya, Oman, Jordan, Cyprus and Germany.

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Rampart Announces Exclusive Partnership with Milkor USA in Canada

Friday, April 12th, 2024

OTTAWA, ON — Rampart Corp., a leader in providing cutting-edge operational equipment to military and law enforcement agencies across Canada, is proud to announce an exclusive partnership with Milkor USA Inc. (MUSA), a renowned manufacturer in the defense technology sector.

Milkor USA, Inc. is recognized as a pioneering force in the development of launcher technology, dedicated to crafting solutions that address the rigorous demands of military and law enforcement agencies globally. Their unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and the safety of their products has firmly established them as a leader in the defense sector, continually responding to the evolving needs of modern armed forces and law enforcement with high-quality, reliable operational equipment.

This partnership offers Canadian agencies unmatched access and support to Milkor’s innovative defense technologies, including the Less-Lethal Tactical Launcher (LTL). The LTL stands out for its superior quality, safety, and performance, setting a new standard in less-lethal solutions for riot and crowd control, as well as breaching operations. Designed exclusively for less-lethal munitions, it offers operational flexibility and rapid response capabilities, emphasizing Rampart’s commitment to equipping law enforcement with the most effective tools.
This strategic alliance aligns with both Rampart’s and Milkor’s mission to equip military and law enforcement with superior, reliable operational equipment. The collaboration promises to enhance the operational effectiveness and safety of Canadian agencies, offering them access to the best in launcher technology in the world.

Posted in Industry, International, weapons | Comments Off on Rampart Announces Exclusive Partnership with Milkor USA in Canada