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Archive for the ‘International’ Category

Elbit Systems UK Delivers Full Suite of Fires Training to the British Armed Forces

Thursday, December 5th, 2024

I/ITSEC, Florida – 4th December 2024: Elbit Systems UK (ESUK), a defence technology business, has completed the System Acceptance Trials (SAT) for the mobile component of the Joint Fires Synthetic Trainer (Mobile) (JFST(M)). JFST delivers high-fidelity immersive training for troops who direct fires from artillery, combat aircraft, helicopters, or Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles – known as Joint Fires Operators. With the completion of these final trials, ESUK has delivered its sixth and final JFST training platform type to Front-Line Commands.

This milestone means that ESUK has delivered all six capabilities of the JFST platform to the British Armed Forces. ESUK previously delivered five of the six different variants of JSFT systems to bases across the UK including at the Royal School of Artillery, Larkhill, and the Air Ground Operations School at RAF Leeming. The systems fielded include a 285-degree dome for JTAC training, versions to provide mounted and dismounted training as well as the capabilities to provide the training needed for personnel to conduct battle group level exercises. To date, JFST has delivered over 12,000 hours of training to British Armed Forces and NATO allies.

The inaugural deployment of JFST(M) training has been delivered to 3 Commando Brigade Fires Personnel in Scotland. With further training exercises planned, the family of JFST training solutions offers users a fully immersive experience, allowing users to sense, decide and control joint effects without the need for expensive military assets – bearing cost efficiencies for all branches of the Armed Forces and boosting training capacity.

The JFST training system is part of ESUK’s solutions-based approach to working with the British Armed Forces. With a wide selection of training on offer, the business’ innovative approach provides full training solutions without the need to combine live air, land, and sea assets – saving Armed Forces time and money. 

The 285-degree dome system has also passed US and NATO accreditation meaning that it can be used by allied nations to provide JTAC and joint fires training to deliver better prepared Armed Forces Personnel.

Martin Fausset, CEO of Elbit Systems UK said:

“JFST is a highly capable and technologically advanced training system which has demonstrated the benefits synthetic training can provide to the British Armed Forces. We will continue to support this training for all branches of the Armed Forces”.

Spectre Military Equipment – Protected Compass Pouch

Wednesday, December 4th, 2024

While most of us in the US rely on the issue Lensatic Compass, many use various versions of the Silva line.

Manufactured from laser cut Cordura, the pouch is reinforced with Curv’s PauaSkin to offer rigidity and protect the compass.

Additionally, the compass can be accessed from top or bottom and there’s a tether eyelet inside so you can tie it down.

Now this is interesting, it’s available with two different attachment variants.

The MOLLE variant features PALS and the tear away variant is backed with Velcro hook which fits directly onto the loop MOLLE backer so you can remove the whole thing quickly.

Available in any color as long as it’s MultiCam.

www.spectremilitary.co.uk/product-page/protected-compass-case

15 Companies Pitch Their Capabilities at GA-ASI’s Blue Magic Netherlands

Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024

Nov. 19 Event Hosted by GA-ASI and Supported by Lockheed Martin Ventures
and Brainport Attracts Cross-Section of Netherlands’ High-Tech Sector

SAN DIEGO – 02 December 2024 – On November 19, 2024, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) hosted its first Blue Magic Netherlands (BMN) event in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. Approximately 200 people attended the event that provided Dutch businesses with an opportunity to present their capabilities to GA-ASI and other companies interested in possible collaborations. GA-ASI was joined for the event by the Netherlands Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence, Lockheed Martin Ventures, Brainport Development, Brabant Development Agency (BOM), the Netherlands Industries for Defence & Security (NIDV), and SpaceNED.

At this event, GA-ASI and its partners heard first-hand from Dutch companies about the important capabilities they are developing. The process started in July when GA-ASI put out an open invitation to Dutch businesses to apply for the opportunity to present innovative technologies at the November 19 event. Key areas of focus included Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Autonomy, Advanced Materials, Sensors, Advanced Manufacturing, and Space. Close to 50 companies applied and after reviewing the applications, 15 businesses were selected to pitch their capabilities to an audience that included lightweight lattice structures, gas detection technologies, advanced battery and photonics applications, and several innovative unmanned system and AI applications, among many others.

“This event is where the rubber meets the road,” said Brad Lunn, Managing Director-Strategic Finance at GA-ASI. “In addition to attracting many companies, we increased the areas of expertise and depth of knowledge from the presenting companies in order to provide research, development, and breakthrough innovations to support current and future missions by GA-ASI aircraft. We also wanted to give the companies an opportunity to pitch in front of other potential customers, partners, and investors.”

The first Blue Magic event held by GA-ASI was in 2019 in Belgium, with subsequent events held in 2020, 2021, and 2023. GA-ASI is deliveringeight MQ-9A Remotely Piloted Aircraft to the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF).

GA-ASI expects to announce technology partnerships stemming from the BMN event and intends to hold this event on an annual basis in the Netherlands.

Agreements Signed: Rheinmetall and Lithuania Begin Construction of Modern Artillery Ammunition Production Plant

Friday, November 29th, 2024

Lithuania and Rheinmetall are beginning construction of a modern production plant for 155mm artillery ammunition. The necessary contracts, including a land lease agreement and a supply contract for the procurement of 155mm ammunition, were signed at a ceremony held on 29 November 2024. The Prime Minister of Lithuania, Ms Ingrida Šimonyt?, the Lithuanian Minister for the Economy and Innovation, Ms Aušrin? Armonaite, and the Lithuanian Minister of National Defence, Mr Laurynas Kas?i?nas, attended the event.

With the start of construction in Baisogala, Lithuania is taking a further step towards strengthening its defence sector. A state-of-the-art production facility, including a shell manufacturing and load assembly pack, is being built in the municipality on an area of around 340 hectares. The facility will begin operations from mid-2026 and, once completed, will be able to produce tens of thousands of 155mm calibre artillery shells per year. 180 million euros are invested directly in Lithuania. Around 150 jobs will be created locally. Local companies and the local economy will be integrated into the value chain.

“From day one, the dialogue between the Lithuanian Government and Rheinmetall has been based on a mutual understanding of this project’s necessity and urgency. I am very pleased that today, this cooperation has enabled the beginning of construction of the artillery ammunition production plant. Our defence needs, the importance of the shortest possible supply chains, and strong allied partnership between Lithuania and Germany underscore the need to maintain the momentum as we continue to work in the same spirit of cooperation,” says Ingrida Šimonyt?, Prime Minister of Lithuania.

“We at Rheinmetall are very grateful for the trust Lithuania has placed in us. It is and remains our aspiration at Rheinmetall to be one of the pillars of national and international security provision. This long-term partnership with Lithuania confirms this once again,” says Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG.

“In light of the growing security challenges, we must move beyond words and take concrete steps to strengthen our nation’s defence capabilities. By fostering large-scale investment projects and enabling local production of weaponry, we not only address national security needs but also reduce our dependence on arms procured from international markets. I have no doubt that Lithuania is moving in the right direction, and it is promising to see global leaders like Rheinmetall choosing to be part of this progress,” says Aušrin? Armonait?, the Minister of the Economy and Innovation.

“The establishment of the German defense industry company Rheinmetall’s ammunition factory in Lithuania is not only significant in the context of the defense industry‘s development but will also address the needs of our armed forces. It was quite a complex process, but I am pleased and grateful to my colleagues that, through joint efforts, we managed to reach an agreement on this historic and important project for our national security,” notes Laurynas Kas?i?nas, the Minister of Defence.

As recently as June 2024, Rheinmetall and the Lithuanian Minister of Economy and Innovation Armonaite signed an agreement regulating the establishment of the German defence company Rheinmetall in Lithuania. The project was granted the status of ‘state significance’. As a result, the Lithuanian Centre of Excellence for Ammunition will benefit from special investment and business conditions to speed up the construction of the plant.

New from Carter’s Tailoring – CT120 and CT120E Bergens

Monday, November 25th, 2024

Carter’s Tailoring has introduced what they believe to be the only bergen available in the UK with either internal or external frame options.

Features:

-Approx 120 litres capacity

-1000d MTP MIL-SPEC Cordura

-MultiCam MIL-SPEC jacquard webbing

-Duraflex plastics

-Internal frame option with 3 x removable stay bars

-Contoured wide shoulder straps with load lifter straps

-Separated back padding for air flow

-Removable waist belt

-External frame option with an adjustable shoulder strap harness

-4 x 2 PALS on the waistbelt

-Triple large utility pouches on the bottom

-2 x standard utility pouches and 1 x large utility pouch on the top

-Mesh side pouches

-PLCE side pouch zips

-Non elasticated lid

-Floating lid with 3 x side release buckles

-2 x grab handles, front and rear

-Dual zip access on the lid, 1 gives access to the underlid pocket from the top, 1 gives access to the main compartment

-8 x 4 PALS lid

-Under lid mesh pocket

-Internal mesh pocket

www.carterstailoring.com

Tomahawk Performance Partners With Terräng MP-SEC France To Broaden Product Availability

Monday, November 25th, 2024

Nashville, Tennessee – November 2024 — Tomahawk Performance is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Terräng MP-SEC France to expand technical apparel distribution throughout France. This collaboration will allow Tomahawk Performance to reach more military and law enforcement professionals with its precision-engineered layering systems. MP-SEC France, a leader in distribution, brings extensive knowledge and industry connections, making it an ideal partner for this expansion.

“MP-SEC France’s expertise in technical apparel distribution and strong commitment to quality align perfectly with our values, making them an ideal partner to help us broaden our reach and better serve professionals across France,” says Marc Elbaz, Tomahawk Performance CEO.

“This partnership builds on a long-standing professional relationship with Tomahawk’s talented team, whose commitment to innovation and excellence aligns perfectly with our vision. Their use of lightweight, stretchable, and high-performance materials ensures enhanced comfort and operational efficiency for operators in the field. We are excited to bring these cutting-edge solutions to our customers, continuing our mission to support and equip those who serve,” says Louis Tidey, MP-SEC France Sales Director.

MP-SEC France serves as the expert link between operational requirements and product manufacturing through sales representatives with a wealth of knowledge in the field. Product currently available in France to individuals through TerrängFrance and government sales through MP-SEC France.

Tomahawk Performance designs technical apparel and gear to maximize mobility and enhance performance during the mission. For more information, please contact the Tomahawk Performance team.

contact@tomahawkperformance.com

info@mp-sec.fr

Direct Action Celebrates 10 Years

Monday, November 25th, 2024

Direct Action: Experience Based Gear from Poland

Founded in 2014, Direct Action set out with a clear mission: to provide top-tier personal equipment for NATO military and law enforcement special operations units. The brand’s success stems from creating a comprehensive, fully modular system that allows users to tailor gear to their individual needs and mission requirements. This philosophy is perfectly encapsulated in the brand’s “Individual-as-a-system” approach. Furthermore, in-house production ensures world-class quality in finishing, durability, and attention to detail. Moreover, the company offers custom product solutions. Through ongoingcollaboration with special forces operators and continuous feedback collection, Direct Action constantly evolves and refines its products.

The core of Direct Action’s product line features names that pay homage to aircraft flown by Polish pilots during the Battle of Britain and beyond (Spitfire, Hurricane, etc.). This naming convention emphasizes the brand’s roots and identity and honors these heroes. Special units across numerous countries, including Poland, France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Greece, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Lithuania, currently utilize Direct Action gear. All production takes place in three Polish facilities, with manufacturing processes certified to AQAP 2110:2016 and ISO 9001:2015 standards.

Direct Action Timeline:

2013

-Gained access to laser-cutting technology

-Developed initial backpack and bag designs using this innovative technology

2014

-Established Direct Action as a line within Helikon-Tex

-Debuted at the IWA trade show in Nuremberg

-Transformed into an independent brand with a new logo

-Launched the first production facility in Poland

-Secured first tender for a Polish special unit

-Participated in the Paramedic tactical medicine competition

2015

-Launched an online store for the US market

-Welcomed Grzegorz “Zwiru” Urbanski, a JW GROM veteran, to the team

-Presented full product range at Enforce Tac in Nuremberg

-Expanded international distribution network

2016-2019

-Expanded into international markets

-Participated in key industry trade shows (SHOT Show, Enforce Tac, SOFIC, Milipol)

-JW GROM selected Spitfire as their primary plate carrier

-Obtained AQAP and ISO certifications

-Introduced the Spitfire MK II system

2020-2024

-Continued growth despite the COVID-19 pandemic

-Opened two new production facilities in Poland

-Acquired license for ballistics trading

-Showcased new product categories (clothing, membrane and insulation solutions, and ballistic peripherals) at Enforce Tac and MSPO trade shows

Direct Action remains steadfast in its mission to deliver the highest quality tactical gear.

Stay sharp, stay safe, go loud!

R.T. Weatherman Foundation Launches Targeted Trauma Treatment (T3) Program for Ukraine’s Elite Defenders

Sunday, November 24th, 2024

KYIV, Ukraine, November 19, 2024 – On the 1,000th day of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the Romulus T. Weatherman Foundation reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the Ukrainian people by launching its Targeted Trauma Treatment (T3) Program.

This groundbreaking initiative will deliver essential PTSD treatment to Ukraine’s elite defenders. Specifically tailored to meet the mental health needs of personnel with extensive combat experience, this program aims to profoundly improve the lives of soldiers and their families while bolstering Ukraine’s fight for freedom and sovereignty.

The T3 Program leverages the advanced Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) injection protocol, a proven trauma treatment that will help Ukrainian soldiers recover quickly from combat stress and return to duty. This cutting-edge treatment is a game-changer for Ukrainian warriors, enabling soldiers to regain their mental and emotional resilience and continue to play vital roles in defending their nation.

Andrew Duncan, co-founder of the R.T. Weatherman Foundation, stressed the importance of the program: “I’ve seen these soldiers carry the burden of an entire nation and the free world. The T3 Program is about giving them back their strength. These are the people standing between Ukraine and tyranny. By providing this trauma treatment, we are not only saving lives—we are ensuring Ukraine’s defenders remain sharp, focused, and ready to win.”

Meaghan Mobbs, President of the R.T. Weatherman Foundation and driving force of the T3 Program, is a dedicated advocate for Ukraine’s military personnel. Since the onset of the full-scale invasion, she has traveled to Ukraine over 17 times, spearheading the delivery of $150 million in humanitarian aid and creating critical programs to support foreign fighters who have been wounded, killed, or reported missing in action.

“Trained and qualified fighters are one of Ukraine’s most important assets,” Mobbs said. “The T3 Program is about giving them the support they need to recover quickly and get back into the fight. We’re not just treating trauma; we’re helping ensure Ukraine’s elite forces remain mission-capable. This program gives them an edge to keep pushing forward to victory.”

The T3 Program aims to initially treat 400 elite Ukrainian soldiers, delivering immediate and lasting benefits both to these individuals and to the country. With rising demand for trauma-informed care, the program is expected to shape future best practices for treating combat-related PTSD and expand its services to thousands more.

Healing More Than Just Soldiers

This program isn’t just about soldiers returning to the battlefield; it’s about soldiers returning to their families, to their communities, and to the life they once knew. It’s about healing the invisible wounds that war leaves behind. Every soldier treated in the T3 Program represents a ripple effect—helping to rebuild a stronger, more resilient Ukraine.

Mobbs continues: “We’re giving them a lifeline back to normalcy, to stability. Every treatment administered is a victory in its own right, and the impact it will have on these defenders and their families cannot be overstated.”

As the demand for trauma-informed care continues to rise, the T3 Program is expected to grow, reaching thousands more Ukrainian soldiers and informing global best practices for combat-related PTSD treatment. The lessons learned from this program will undoubtedly shape the future of trauma recovery for soldiers across the globe.

About the R.T. Weatherman Foundation

The Romulus T. Weatherman Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private operating foundation dedicated to supporting democracy, valuing each life, and meeting urgent needs in conflict zones. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs, the foundation has become a leader in providing aid and care to those affected by war.

For more information, visit www.WeathermanFoundation.org