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Hexonia Awarded Major European Combat Clothing Contract

Thursday, April 4th, 2024

Hexonia GmbH, a subsidiary of NFM Group AS, has been selected for a significant contract to provide a comprehensive combat clothing system for the Netherlands Armed Forces and the Belgium Navy. The Defence Operational Clothing System (DOKS) represents one of Europe’s most substantial military clothing contracts to date.

The DOKS project entrusts Hexonia GmbH with the responsibility to outfit approximately 45,000 soldiers, delivering an integrated combat clothing system that includes more than 30 different items. Yesterday, the signed 8-year framework agreement was handed over in a festive ceremony in Soesterberg, the Netherlands.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE DOKS PROJECT

A key requirement of the DOKS project is the modularity of the clothing system: soldiers should have the opportunity to wear clothing that is customized and adapted to their specific operational situation. It is designed to cover a wide range of activities and environmental factors, thereby protecting them from specific threats while simultaneously enhancing their performance. An important aspect of the project is the extensive involvement of reference groups, which include soldiers from the navy, the army, the air force, and the military police.

ADVANCED CLOTHING SYSTEM WITH EXTENSIVE SIZING SYSTEM

The system Hexonia has developed encompasses underwear, insulation layers, weather protection, combat shirts, jackets, and pants in a variety of colours and camouflage patterns, along with functional accessories. These are provided in three distinct clothing sets tailored for different operational contexts. The layers within the system are designed to work seamlessly with each other and with the armed forces’ existing protective gear. Featuring a specially developed sizing system that includes up to 35 size gradations, Hexonia guarantees an optimal fit and good comfort for the wearer.

“The high appreciation of our soldiers was decisive in selecting the clothing system of Hexonia”, says Project Lead LTCOL, Bruce Mekking from COMMIT (Commando Materieel en IT of the Dutch Ministry of Defence).

DECADES OF DEVELOPMENT ENSURE QUALITY AND RELIABILITY

Quality, durability, and comfort are paramount to Hexonia in the development of combat clothing. For DOKS, the company utilizes high-quality yarns, woven and knitted fabrics developed through extensive research. The production process is predominantly managed by the medium-sized German company: various knitting, cutting, and finishing machines are available across its facilities in Nettetal and Jahnsbach, which span approximately 12,000 square meters. In addition, Hexonia has meticulously established a network of trusted partners, over the years, ensuring quality and the reliability of its production chain. All supplied parts are subjected to strict quality controls in various process stages.

“Being trusted by the Netherlands Ministry of Defence to equip the Netherlands Armed Forces and the Belgium Navy fills us with pride and is a confirmation of our daily work. We have invested heavily in research work and built-up in-depth expertise in the development of military clothing for more than 20 years. Hexonia has since 2022 been part of NFM Group, and together we are continuously expanding our production and logistics capacities. This makes us a strong and reliable partner in Europe today, and we are confident to create a strong partnership with COMMIT to provide the Dutch soldiers the clothing needed to do their job, regardless mission, and climatic condition they will meet,” says Nils Toverud, Managing Director of Hexonia GmbH.

“The DOKS project represents more than a contract; it is a profound responsibility. As we embark on this journey to outfit the Netherlands Armed Forces, we at NFM Group, together with Hexonia GmbH, are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in military apparel. Our collaboration signifies a shared vision for excellence and a safer future for those in service,” says Walter Øverland, CEO NFM Group AS.

Posted in Clothing, Contracts, International, Press Release | 3 Comments »

R&D Project Award from Five-Eyes Government for DroneShield

Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024

DroneShield has been awarded an approximately $900k R&D contract from a Five-Eyes Government. The contract is notable in that it specifically aims to leverage the potential of the DroneSentry-X Mk2 and aims to provide an initial set of software tools to enhance end-user capabilities in the Counter-UAS Electronic Attack domain.

Anechoic chamber of the type to be installed in the DroneShield Sydney facility in mid 2024

This contract aligns closely with DroneShield’s current technology roadmap. Software controlled multi-channel wide band disruption allows for not only optimised channel management, frequency management, power usage and optimisation but also the addition of custom waveforms targeted at various threats.

Advancements in drone protocols designed to move away from RF interference as well as work in high noise, high clutter environments means that traditional methods of disruption may become less effective over time. With a software approach to disruption the ability to adapt the disruption to stay one step ahead of the technology has become paramount of successful disruption systems.

Angus Bean, DroneShield CTO, commented: “DroneShield’s radio frequency jamming capability has been recognised globally as highly effective in defeating nefarious drones. This new contract highlights that the DroneSentry-X Mk2 is a step-function in smart-jamming capabilities. We are looking forward to delivering on the capabilities the Defense users are looking for.”

Oleg Vornik, DroneShield CEO, added: “DroneShield products are considered to be market leading by many governments around the world. We pride ourselves on setting the global benchmark. This new contract represents the start of an entirely new generation of disruption capabilities.”

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, Research | No Comments »

Wilcox Awarded Contract to Supply the MRF Xe to the German Special Forces

Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024

NEWINGTON, NH USA – On 27 February 2024, the German Special Forces awarded Wilcox Industries Corp. a contract to supply the Micro Range Finder – Enhanced (MRF Xe™). This contract is the result of a multi-year competitive selection process. The MRF Xe™ system is Wilcox’s next generation fire control system is engineered with uncompromising performance in mind, the MRF Xe™ provides the end user with extremely accurate ballistic solutions, increased situational awareness in any environment, housed in a very small lightweight form factor.

The contract will be performed by Wilcox in partnership with its German representative and partner IEA Mil-Optics GmbH located in Nagold, Germany, that received the demand to supply laser range finding devices for an array of long-range weapon systems. IEA Mil-Optics will be responsible for managing the supply of the MRF Xe™ to the Bundeswehr for the duration of the contract. The MRF Xe™ will be manufactured at Wilcox’s facility in Newington, NH USA.

In response to the contract award, James Teetzel, CEO of Wilcox stated, “We are very honored and pleased to learn of the good news that Wilcox was down selected as the global partner to the German Special Forces and IEA Mil-Optics GmbH suppling the MRF Xe system. Our unwavering commitment to support the warfighter and safeguarding their wellbeing is utmost priority.”

For more information about the MRF-Xe™, visit: MRF Xe • Wilcox Industries

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

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, International, Lights, Press Release | No Comments »

Royal Thai Navy Special Warfare Command, Naval Special Warfare Conduct Joint Combined Training Exchange

Monday, April 1st, 2024

SATTAHIP, Thailand — A West Coast-based U.S. Naval Special Warfare (NSW) Unit conducted joint combined exchange training (JCET) with members of the Royal Thai Navy Special Warfare Command (RTN SWC) from Jan. 28 – Feb. 29, 2024.

The joint training took place in Sattahip, Thailand, and included visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) tactics, close-quarters combat, tactical combat casualty care, live weapons ranges and training, airborne water entry training, and mission planning.

While JCET events inherently focus on U.S. military readiness and training, they also mutually enhance bilateral relations, contribute to regional stability and improve interoperability among partners and allies.

“Working with the Thai special warfare unit has given us a chance to share knowledge and expand our working relationships with a partner nation,” said a U.S. Naval Special Warfare operator. “JCETs like this enhances our integrated special warfare capabilities and fosters growth as partners and allies.”

During the JCET, the RTN SWC also hosted a cultural day for NSW operators.

“The opportunity to take a day to learn and share in our Thai partners’ rich culture only deepened our partnership,” said the NSW operator. “While warfighting and mutual capabilities are always our shared focus, the opportunity to learn more about our cultures together is invaluable.”

The United States and Thailand have enjoyed nearly two centuries of diplomatic relations and have been security treaty allies for over 65 years. The enduring relationship covers political, security, and economic cooperation, as well as a shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Naval Special Warfare is the nation’s elite maritime special operations force, uniquely positioned to extend the Fleet’s reach and ensure readiness for future security challenges.

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chelsea D. Meiller

Posted in Guest Post, International, Navy, SOF | No Comments »

Official Opening of Vehicle Systems International Headquarters in Bristol, UK

Friday, March 29th, 2024

Rheinmetall House in Bristol, UK, the newly acquired Vehicle Systems International (VSI) headquarters, has been officially opened by Andy Start, Chief Executive Officer of Defence Equipment & Support.

As Rheinmetall’s first divisional headquarters to be located outside of Germany, the VSI headquarters will focus on UK, North American and Asia-Pacific markets, providing global customers with more individualised support and promoting and enhancing wider international collaboration. It will continue to establish comprehensive, sovereign capability with commitment to the UK’s Land Industrial Strategy and to drive export from UK. Building on our investments in the UK, Rheinmetall House includes a Collaboration and Innovation Centre (CIC) – a unique capability to promote collaboration and innovation to achieve the battlefield of the future, enabling experimentation with technology across Rheinmetall, with customers, SME’s, academia and our current and future supply chain.

The CIC provides an area dedicated to developing concepts that can be realised in the Systems Integration Lab, pulling products and technology together to integrate into platforms. This approach to Digital Engineering will reduce development time and risk, enabling technology to reach the soldier faster.

Rheinmetall House adds to Rheinmetall’s locations across the UK, including London, Telford, Newcastle, Bovington and the Isle of Wight and further building UK capability, IP and enhancing our investment in UK prosperity. In addition to being the VSI HQ, Rheinmetall House brings together all of Rheinmetall’s expertise in weapons and munitions, technical publications, tactical and logistics vehicles as well as our joint venture RBSL.

During the launch event, guests from across the customer base and industry were invited to explore the Collaboration and Innovation Centre. On display was the BRIDGE future mission module, a digital twin for the Boxer module, demonstrating how SMEs, partners, and customers are exploring future mission requirements in both physical and digital engineering domains.

Attendees also had the chance to explore the Caracal Light Mobility Vehicle; enabled for experimentation with Electronic Architectures, a Mission Master; to experiment with remote piloting and combat pairing, and a Luna NG; with potential for linking to Land platforms to provide airborne ISTAR capability. All are enabled for development in the CIC to support the battlefield of the future.

Rheinmetall House offers an established base for our UK operations, to continue working with our customer, both current and future, and will provide opportunities for key stakeholders to engage and collaborate closely with the Vehicle Systems International division.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Agilite Launches the Magnetix Battle-Belt from Gaza

Friday, March 29th, 2024

Agilite just launched their brand new Magnetix Patented Battle Belt from inside an active war zone. In the video below, Lev, Agilite’s Head designer reveals the features of their much talked about new Belt system including the patented magnet system, while on active duty in the Israel Hamas war. Check it out below:

The belt went live today on Agilite’s website: www.agilitegear.com

Posted in Guest Post, International, Load Carrying | 4 Comments »

G3 Systems Wins Overseas Construction Works Contract for Refurbishment of the British Deputy High Commission Office in Lagos, Nigeria

Thursday, March 28th, 2024

G3 Systems Limited, the British company with over 20 years of operationally proven expertise in designing and producing deployable containerised solutions and providing infrastructure support to military and government organisations in remote locations across the globe, has just been awarded a multi-million-pound contract by the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) for the remodelling and refurbishment of the British Deputy High Commission (BDHC) in Lagos, Nigeria.

The contract, awarded following a competitive tendering exercise, is a mix of demolition, refurbishment, new build and landscaping works estimated to take 18-24 months. The objectives of the FCDO project are to enhance the working environment for deployed staff, ensure compliance with modern building standards, maximise space utilisation and minimise ongoing maintenance and running costs.

The project will also seize the opportunity to enhance compound security and improve the compounds overall environmental performance, in line with government net carbon zero goals.

Throughout the works, the BDHC will remain occupied and fully operational. Therefore, an essential component of the project is to provide close liaison with staff to ensure the project works are synchronised with their operational needs.

Nick Rose, Managing Director G3 Systems said, “This is excellent news for G3 Systems and a very exciting extension of our existing construction capability. We have a strong pedigree of providing deployable containerised embassy solutions for the government in the past and delivering projects in remote locations for the military, but this is a first to manage a complex construction project in a remote location for the FCDO, which is a fantastic addition to our current portfolio.

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Netherlands’ RIOT Police Unit Equipped with Flame Retardant Uniforms from UF PRO

Wednesday, March 27th, 2024

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (22.03.2024)

UF PRO, a leading name in the tactical clothing industry, unveiled its latest flame retardant uniform designed for the Netherlands’ crowd and riot control operations during a public debut at the event held in Ossendrecht, Netherlands.

Over 3,500 Sets Deployed for Enhanced Operations

In collaboration with Gear Point, UF PRO’s distributor in the Netherlands, the National Police Services Agency (Politiedienstencentrum) has equipped their RIOT Police Unit (Mobiele Eenheid) with these advanced uniforms. The initial deployment plan includes 3,500 uniform sets for deployment in 2024.

Innovative Flame Retardant Uniforms

The newly introduced uniform system features several flame retardant (FR) components, including the Striker X FR Combat Pants, Striker X FR Combat Shirt, Delta Eagle Gen.3. FR Jacket, and Monsoon XT Gen.2 FR Rain Jacket.

Darko Radoš Roth, Sales Manager at UF PRO, expressed enthusiasm about the innovative design, stating:

“UF PRO is setting new standards in the development of crowd and riot control uniform systems with its innovative dual-use design. This design allows for a seamless transition between everyday police work and crowd and riot control without the need for changing clothes.”

Crafted for exceptional flame retardancy and breathability, the uniform systems are tailored to meet the distinct needs of crowd and riot control police units. They offer robust protection against flames and intense heat, prioritising comfort, functionality, and ease of movement.

Collaboration with Industry Leaders

UF PRO collaborates with industry leaders W.L. Gore & Associates (Gore) and Schoeller Textil AG to ensure the highest quality and innovative flame retardant technology in their garment systems.

The Delta Eagle Jacket and Rain Jacket feature Gore’s innovative flame retardant PYRAD® technology, which effectively reduces heat flow through the fabric and prevents the spread of flames. Additionally, the Rain Jacket offers 100% waterproof capabilities, thanks to the GORE-TEX 3-layer waterproof and breathable laminate.

Schoeller’s pioneering pyroshell technology, found in UF PRO’s Combat Shirts and Pants, revolutionises fire safety. By transforming conventional materials into non-burning layers upon heat exposure, it provides active protection and enhances comfort. Through bonding and mixing processes, Schoeller ensures optimal flame retardancy, shielding wearers from direct flame exposure.

Rigorous Testing

All UF PRO’s FR garment systems undergo rigorous testing, including the Thermo Man test, conducted by the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA). This ensures comprehensive evaluation and real-life protection against intense heat and flames. If you’re interested in learning more about the testing process for flame retardant clothing, you can find additional information here.

UF PRO’s collaboration with the Netherlands’ National Police Services Agency (Politiedienstencentrum) signifies a significant advancement in crowd and riot control uniform systems, promoting safer and more comfortable policing.

Posted in Clothing, FR, International, LE, Press Release | 4 Comments »