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Beretta Defense Technologies Expands in Asia Pacific Region – Establishing BDT New Zealand

Tuesday, March 26th, 2024

Beretta Defense Technologies (BDT), a leading provider of advanced firearms and defence solutions, is proud to announce the establishment of its newest entity – Beretta Defense Technologies New Zealand. This strategic expansion underscores BDT’s commitment to providing cutting-edge defence and law enforcement technology and products to customers worldwide.

BDT New Zealand will offer a comprehensive selection of products, including small arms, ammunition, optics, and support equipment, sourced from BDT’s global alliance of Beretta Holding owned companies and third-party partners. By serving as the gateway to the global BDT alliance, BDT New Zealand aims to ensure that local customers have access to the latest advancements in our defence and law enforcement technology.

“We are thrilled to expand our operations into New Zealand and look forward to bringing our world-
class defence solutions to this important market. This expansion represents an exciting opportunity for us to serve the unique needs of the New Zealand defence and law enforcement community, contributing to the country’s security objectives.”

– Slawomir Wicha, General Manager, Beretta Defense Technologies

To bolster the BDT presence and efficacy in the Australasian region, BDT New Zealand proudly collaborates with BDT Australia, forming a powerful partnership aimed at delivering comprehensive defence solutions across the region. Leveraging the combined strengths and expertise of both entities, this collaboration will ensure coordination and support for defence and law enforcement agencies in Australia and New Zealand. By combining resources, knowledge, and networks, BDT will leverage the joint relationship to benefit all customers in the region.

“BDT recognises the importance of the New Zealand market, and the necessity to understand the nuances of New Zealand requirements, which is best done by New Zealanders. This has been the determining factor in establishing BDT New Zealand.

While Australia and New Zealand are proudly independent, each with a strong culture and identity, we also have much in common, with a very strong history of collaboration particularly in a military context. As such, it makes perfect sense to collaborate, and we are excited about the prospect of working closely together, sharing our experiences for mutual benefit.

This collaboration signifies a significant step forward in the BDT global strategy, and underscores our commitment to supporting our customers throughout the region. Together, we look forward to forging strong partnerships and achieving shared success.”

– Lachlan McKenna, Director, Beretta Defense Technologies Australia & New Zealand

BDT New Zealand looks forward to reaching out to new customers, and establishing meaningful relationships throughout the New Zealand market. By actively engaging with local agencies, understanding their unique challenges, and offering tailored solutions, BDT New Zealand seeks to build partnerships with defence and law enforcement agencies to fulfil their missions effectively.

“I am thrilled to join the BDT New Zealand team, and feel my experiences gained over a couple of decades of uniformed service, both in the NZDF, and in Law Enforcement roles in Australia and New Zealand see me well positioned to have an innate understanding of our customers’ operational requirements.”

– Will Pillow, Business Development Manager, Beretta Defense Technologies New Zealand

BDT New Zealand represents a significant milestone in BDT’s global expansion strategy and reaffirms its position as a trusted partner for defence agencies worldwide. By bringing global BDT alliance products to the local market, BDT New Zealand aims to empower defence and law enforcement agencies with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-challenging security landscape.

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Multi-Billion-Euro Contract for Rheinmetall: The “Heavy Weapon Carrier for the Infantry” Provides the Australian Army’s Medium Forces with Firepower and Rapid Mobility

Sunday, March 24th, 2024

The German Bundeswehr has commissioned Rheinmetall to supply the “Schwerer Waffenträger Infanterie (Heavy Weapon Carrier for the Infantry)”. Following the Budget Committee of the German Bundestag approved the proposal on 20 March 2024, the contract was signed today on 21 March 2023. The German Federal Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) will procure up to 123 vehicles “Schwerer Waffenträger Infanterie”. The contract is worth around €2.7 billion, which also includes service and maintenance. Delivery is scheduled to begin in 2025.

The Heavy Weapon Carrier for the Infantry serves as a replacement for the Wiesel (“weasel”) tracked vehicle for direct tactical fire support of infantry units. It is also a core element of the German Army’s new force category, the “medium forces” are able to rapidly deploy over long distances and thus contribute to credible national and alliance defence.

The Heavy Weapon Carrier for the Infantry is based on the Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle (CRV), the wheeled armoured reconnaissance vehicle of the Australian Defence Force, also supplied by Rheinmetall. This is the proven 8×8 combat vehicle with an armoured reconnaissance mission module including the two-person Lance turret. The main weapon is the Rheinmetall MK30-2 ABM automatic cannon, which is also installed in the German Puma infantry fighting vehicle. In addition, the multi-role guided missile system (“mehrrollenfähiges leichtes Lenkflugkörpersystem” or MELLS), which enables the Heavy Weapon Carrier for the Infantry to provide anti-tank defence, is also fitted.

Armin Papperger, Chairman of the Executive Board of Rheinmetall AG: “We are very proud to have been selected to supply the Schwerer Waffenträger Infanterie, an essential element of the German Army’s new force category, the ‘medium forces’. In order to be able to provide the Army with the required combat vehicles as quickly as possible, we are integrating not only our German but also the Australian sites in our Rheinmetall network.”

The vehicles earmarked for the Bundeswehr will use production capacities at Rheinmetall’s state-of-the-art Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence (MILVEHCOE) in Redbank, south-east Queensland – together with the Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles produced for the Australian Defence Forces.

Comprehensive German-Australian cooperation on this programme was initiated in 2023. In July 2023, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese agreed a corresponding agreement in principle in Berlin on the fringes of a visit to Germany. A declaration of cooperation had previously been signed in Canberra on 23 March 2023 by the Australian Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy MP, and the German Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Defence, Thomas Hitschler. This lays the foundation for further contractual arrangements between the Australian and German Ministries of Defence and Rheinmetall.

John Abunassar, head of Rheinmetall’s Vehicle Systems Division, emphasised the similarities between the Australian and planned German Boxer vehicles and the trust that both allies place in Rheinmetall. “The Bundeswehr Boxers, some of which are to be built at MILVEHCOE, are based on the design of the successful Australian Boxer wheeled armoured reconnaissance vehicle. This would be one of the largest Australian defence exports in the country’s history and supports Rheinmetall’s goal to further develop the capabilities of the Australian defence industry and integrate it into the company’s global supply chains.”

“Rheinmetall has more than 900 employees in Australia, high-tech capabilities and an established manufacturing facility in Redbank that produces vehicles, armour and electronics. Our Australian and global supply chain will grow and bring further prosperity to small and medium sized businesses as we secure new orders to complement existing export programmes. We welcome the close defence industry partnership between Australia and Germany as the two nations work together to enhance global security,” added Nathan Poyner, Managing Director of Rheinmetall Defence Australia.

The Boxer is a modern 8×8 armoured vehicle that is in service or under procurement with various armed forces around the world. The Boxer provides increased safety and protection for crews and has a high level of firepower and mobility for prolonged peacekeeping operations as well as near-peer conflict.

In Australia, Rheinmetall is the largest supplier of military vehicles to the country’s armed forces. In addition to the 211 Boxer vehicles delivered as part of the Land 400 Phase 2 project – 133 of them in the CRV variant with the crewed Lance turret – the company also supports the Australian Defence Force’s HX fleet, which comprises over 2,900 vehicles. Rheinmetall also provides the Multi-Ammunition Soft-Kill System to the Royal Australian Navy, manages training systems for Defence and has delivered more than 200 HX Trucks to the New Zealand Defence Force.

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Rampart Training Week Registration Now Open

Friday, March 22nd, 2024

Registration for Rampart Training Week is now live! Following Rampart Range Day & Expo 2024, Rampart has once again team up with the industry’s top brands and subject matter experts to host a series of training events for Law Enforcement, Military, and Corrections personnel. Sign up now to request your spot in your preferred courses!

• Hands-on training courses run by world-class subject matter experts

• Earn factory certifications and accreditations

• Select courses are free to Law Enforcement, Military, and Corrections

• Discounts available on flights, hotels, and rental cars

rampartcorp.com/training-week

And don’t forget, Canada’s Largest Private Range Day & Expo is taking place in Ottawa, Ontario on May 28th, 2024. Make sure you register.

• Get hands-on experience with the latest firearms, tactical equipment, and technology

• An unparalleled opportunity to connect with the best tactical suppliers in Canada

• Talk with brand and product experts about your specific requirements

• Meet with other industry personnel to discuss and share solutions and challenges

• Registration is free of charge and is not open to the public. Only active Law Enforcement, Military, Corrections, and relevant government personnel may attend.

rampartcorp.com/rampart-range-day

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Chemring Group PLC Awarded c.£90m Funding Awards

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

Chemring notes the announcement made by the European Commission regarding its allocation of funding in support of boosting defence production within Europe, and we welcome its public announcement of awards totaling €66.7m (£57m) made to our Norwegian subsidiary, Chemring Nobel.

These awards, which are part of the Act in Support of Ammunition Production (“ASAP”) programme, are a direct response to the European Council’s call in March 2023 to urgently deliver ammunition, and missiles if requested, to Ukraine and to help Member States refill their stocks by introducing targeted measures. This Regulation aims to strengthen the responsiveness and ability of the European Union’s defence industry to ensure the timely supply of ammunition and missiles in Europe, and includes measures to support production capacities and tackle identified bottlenecks throughout the industrial supply chain.

Further information can be found on the European Commission website:defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-defence-industry/asap-boosting-defence-production_en

Chemring is also pleased to report that it has received further grant funding of 428 million NOK (£32m) from the Government of Norway. This co-financing will boost capacity and production at Chemring Nobel and will significantly strengthen Norwegian production capacity for critical defense products.

Further information can be found on the Norwegian government website:www.regjeringen.no/no/aktuelt/milliardstotte-til-norsk-forsvarsindustri/id3029866.

Grant agreements are expected to be signed over the coming months.

Both grants support Chemring’s decision to invest in doubling the capacity of this facility over the medium-term, and reinforces Chemring Nobel’s position as a key strategic supplier to NATO.

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NATO Accelerator and Two Test Centres to be Established in Finland

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

NATO’s DIANA (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic) programme is expanding its network with new sites. Finland is now part of the network since the Board of the DIANA initiative approved a proposal to establish an accelerator and two test centres in Finland. Their mission is to help companies develop technology, innovation and business for the civil and defence sectors.

The preparatory work, which started in spring 2023, was led by the Ministry of Defence and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and required input from several operators, has reached its desired conclusion. VTT is setting up a DIANA accelerator in Otaniemi, Espoo, in collaboration with Aalto University and the University of Helsinki. The test centres will be established at the University of Oulu and VTT’s Otaniemi site.

The operations to be established in Finland will build on decades of strong technological expertise and market success. The technology themes of the accelerator and test centres are related to next-generation communication systems, 6G technology, cybersecurity, quantum and space technologies.

“VTT is honoured to be part of the DIANA network and its accelerator and test centre activities. Finland’s world-class expertise helps pioneering companies to develop the deep technologies that will safeguard NATO and its billion inhabitants,” says Sauli Eloranta, Vice President, Defence at VTT.

DIANA accelerator to train companies to operate in the defence sector

VTT is setting up a DIANA accelerator in Otaniemi, Espoo, in collaboration with Aalto University and the University of Helsinki, which will focus on the communication systems and quantum technologies of the future. This will provide a special training programme that will help companies develop deep technologies and innovations for commercial and defence purposes. It will also provide companies with extensive and varied training on how to develop business opportunities in the defence sector.

The accelerator’s services will be specifically targeted at start-ups and SMEs with limited experience in the defence and security sector.

“The long-awaited decision is significant for Finland as it is the first time that Finnish operators will be able to harness their cutting-edge expertise for NATO’s DIANA innovation activities on such a large scale. Our country has a large number of technologically advanced and innovative start-ups and SMEs, which have found it difficult to invest in export in the defence sector. DIANA will support this activity free of charge by using the accelerators to train companies in NATO technical and procurement requirements and by developing company-specific business training programmes. Such a mechanism provides a high-speed lane for companies to enter a difficult but fastest growing industry internationally – I hope Finnish companies will participate as widely as possible,” says Eloranta.

DIANA selects companies for accelerators through its application process. This procedure is called the DIANA challenge programme. The first round of applications for the Finnish DIANA accelerator will be launched in 2024, and it will be open to start-ups developing dual-use solutions in NATO countries.

Test centres provide tools for further technological development

The technology test centres will be established at VTT’s Otaniemi site and the University of Oulu. VTT’s Otaniemi Test Centre will focus on secure connectivity, space and quantum technologies. The test centre at the University of Oulu will offer companies the opportunity to test 6G network technologies.

DIANA test centres are places where companies can strengthen their technological expertise and competitiveness. The research infrastructure and experts provided by the test centres will allow companies to evaluate their own concepts and technologies and get support to develop them. In practice, the test centres will consist of a comprehensive set of existing research facilities and equipment, as well as top-level expertise in the sector. The centres will also support the development of start-ups participating in the accelerator programme.

It will be possible for all companies in NATO countries to purchase the test centre services, regardless of whether or not they belong to a DIANA accelerator.

“Finland has a strong position as a developer of civilian communications systems, thanks to companies like Nokia. DIANA offers a fast track for many companies to enter the NATO defence market,” says Eloranta.

What is NATO’s DIANA initiative?

NATO’s DIANA initiative aims to identify future challenges in the defence and security sector and work with companies to find technological solutions.

“Part of DIANA’s strength is our unique transatlantic network of talent centres and innovation leaders working toward a common purpose. The breadth and diversity of partners in DIANA’s network will accelerate the development and deployment of ground-breaking solutions for defence, security and peace,” says Professor Deeph Chana, Managing Director of DIANA.

The initiative focuses on new technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomy and quantum technologies, which are dual-use in nature, i.e. they can be commercially exploited in both the civil and defence sectors.

DIANA in brief

• NATO established DIANA to help develop dual-use technologies that meet security and defence challenges. DIANA supports companies working on solutions in key sectors identified by NATO member states.

• To meet the needs of a changing world, NATO is identifying, developing and deploying emerging and disruptive dual-use technologies.

• DIANA is NATO’s innovation accelerator, bringing together innovators from member states to support NATO’s technological leadership, defend its one billion citizens and maintain peace and security.

• DIANA provides companies with training, funding, commercial advice and access to defence expertise and investors. Participating companies are developing dual-use technologies to address major defence and resilience challenges.

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Wilcox Ind Awarded Contract to Supply the RAAM-GSS to the German Special Forces

Wednesday, March 20th, 2024

NEWINGTON, NH USA – On 27 February 2024, the German Special Forces awarded Wilcox Industries Corp. a contract to supply Rapid Acquisition Aiming Module – Grenadier Sighting System (RAAM-GSS™). This contract is the result of a multi-year competitive selection process. The RAAM-GSS™ system is a customized version of the US Army’s “Program of Record” Grenadier Sighting System (GSS). The technical foundation of the Wilcox line of grenadier sighting systems products is based on over a decade of rigorous design and development work in cooperation with the US Army.

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 for supply of the aiming devices for the 40 mm grenade launcher. IEA Mil-Optics will be responsible for managing the supply of the fire control units and laser rangefinders to the Bundeswehr for the duration of the contract. The RAAM-GSS™ 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 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 supplying the RAAM GSS system. Our unwavering commitment to support the warfighter and safeguarding their wellbeing is utmost priority.”

A Brief History of the Design and Success of the Wilcox Grenadier Sighting System [GSS]

In 2012, Wilcox began the design and development of the US Army GSS day/night sighting system for the M320/M320A1 grenade launcher (GL). After over a decade of design refinement, development, developmental, V&V testing, operational testing, lessons learned, continuous improvement, and ongoing production in conjunction with the US Army, the GSS was confirmed to simply be the most accurate, user friendly, forward upgradeable, and heavily tested day/night sight for the M320/M320A1 GL in the world.

That was just the beginning of the long-term commitment between Wilcox and the US Army to design and manufacture the utmost advanced 40mm sighting systems available. Prototypes of the GSS then went through three years of further extensive development, testing and evaluation in a competitive contract environment. At the end, in June 2019, the US Army chose to purchase tens of thousands of GSS units (NSN: 1010-01-686-8798) with Wilcox as a single production awardee.

Like the GSS, the RAAM-GSS™ has proven to increase hit probability by significantly enhancing daytime and nighttime grenadier accuracy, simultaneously decreasing target engagement time, and is gaining user acceptance.

For more information about the RAAM-GSS™, visit www.wilcoxind.com/RAAM-GSS.

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MKS Instruments Introduces Ophir IR Optics Assembly, Support, and Services in India

Tuesday, March 19th, 2024

Delhi, India – March 12, 2024 – MKS Instruments, Inc. (Nasdaq: MKSI), a global provider of technologies that transform our world, announced today new assembly, support, and service capabilities for Ophir® cutting-edge infrared (IR) optics products in India. These new capabilities align seamlessly with the Indian Government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ “Make in India” initiative, demonstrating MKS’ commitment to India’s national security industry. MKS will leverage its strong local presence in India by adding Ophir IR lens assembly, support and service capabilities to its existing Atotech facilities.

“The combination of Atotech India’s well-established operations, technical capabilities, and highly qualified team with Ophir’s innovative strength and industry-leading IR optical solutions will enable us to strengthen the longstanding relations we have with the Indian national security sector,” said Kobi Lasri, General Manager of Ophir Optics Group. “This partnership marks another significant milestone in our strategic vision to deepen our collaboration with the Government of India and bolster local assembly, support, and service capabilities, supporting the self-reliance vision of the Indian government. Through these new capabilities in India, MKS reaffirms its commitment and dedication to continuous improvement, seeking to deliver products with unparalleled performance, reliability, and local support for customers worldwide.”

Additional information can be found at www.mks.com

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Light Hybrid Vehicles in the Portfolio: Rheinmetall Acquires Dutch Startup REEQ

Monday, March 18th, 2024

Rheinmetall has acquired the Dutch startup REEQ, thereby expanding its vehicle portfolio to include innovative light hybrid vehicles. At the beginning of March 2024, the technology group’s Dutch subsidiary Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V., which is part of the Vehicle Systems Division, acquired 100% of the shares in the Dutch start-up REEQ. Rheinmetall is thus expanding its portfolio of lightweight tactical vehicles and also taking the step towards hybrid technology with a fully electric drivetrain in a military vehicle. Both parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

With its vehicles, REEQ has developed a new generation of mobility that combines tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid) and is fully prepared for autonomy. The technology was developed and is produced in the Netherlands.

Currently, REEQ’s vehicle portfolio consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad, all three with exactly the same fully electric drive train. Through the acquisition of REEQ, Rheinmetall is able to serve the Dutch and European market in the field of light tactical mobility, both manned and unmanned, in combination with a microgrid solution. Rheinmetall’s industrial strength and the innovative power of a start-up complement each other. Within the Rheinmetall Group, REEQ retains its status as a start-up in the field of development. The further development and series production of these vehicles will also take place in the Netherlands.

With this acquisition Rheinmetall is responding to the many calls from Dutch politicians and defense leaders to contribute with industrial strength and specialization to the operational user and strengthening of the defense industry. With the development and production from the Netherlands, the strategic autonomy and the Dutch position in the field of military electrification and autonomy in the international defense industry has also been strengthened.

Located in the city of Ede, Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. is part of the Vehicle Systems Division and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH. Rheinmetall AG is one of the world’s leading technology enterprises.

REEQ is a Dutch start-up and has been in existence since 2018. In that year REEQ carried out a first innovation project regarding electromobility in the military sector on behalf of the Dutch Ministry of Defence. In later years, REEQ has developed further in this field of experience.

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