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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.

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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.

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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

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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

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Tomahawk Performance Partners With Terräng MP-SEC France To Broaden Product Availability

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!

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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

Posted in International, Medical, Press Release | 3 Comments »

Offshore Windmill Farm Connection to Power Grid: Rheinmetall Clears Explosive Ordnances in Baltic Sea

Sunday, November 24th, 2024

The Düsseldorf-based Technology Corporation Rheinmetall has gained a valuable order for clearing explosive ordnances in the Baltic Sea in order to establish the condition for connecting an offshore windmill-farm to the power grid. The value of this commissioning is within a low double-digit million Euro range.

The order to Rheinmetall was placed by grid operator 50Hertz within the OST-6-1 project and contains the detection of contaminations, their identi¬fication, the documentation, and hence, the recovery of explosive ordnances. Recovered trans¬portable contaminated waste and remains of weapons will be handed-over to the authorities or blown up on site.

This is the first major order for the Cooperation concerning offshore explosives ordnances detection and clearing. The offshore work to be carried out by Rheinmetall Project Solutions GmbH began in July 2024 and is expected to be completed in May 2025.

The commissioning underlines Rheinmetall’s expertise in the field of offshore explosive ordnance detection and safe clearance, in which all legal and environmental aspects are taken into account.

The aim is to clear the area in order to enable grid operator 50Hertz to lay offshore extra-high voltage cables and install two offshore platforms off the coast of the Fischland-Darß region. This project involves Rheinmetall AG being the project lead, alongside specialized companies from Germany and Norway.

Posted in International, Power, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Milrem Robotics Has Selected Texelis as a Strategic Supplier for the Development of Next-Generation Robotic Combat Vehicles

Friday, November 22nd, 2024

Milrem Robotics, the world’s leading robotics and autonomous systems developer, has selected Texelis, a global supplier of advanced mobility systems for defence and security, as a strategic supplier to manufacture mobility subsystems for a new generation of robotic combat vehicles (RCVs) Milrem Robotics is developing.

Texelis will supply Milrem Robotics with a cutting-edge Tank Electrified Drivetrain to assist in creating highly capable, modular, 12+ ton robotic platforms designed to meet the demands of modern warfare. The new RCVs will be tailored to enhance the operational capabilities of armed forces, providing unprecedented mobility, protection, and advanced technological integration on the battlefield.

“Selecting Texelis as our strategic supplier of mobility subsystems is a crucial step in developing our next-generation robotic combat vehicles. Their proven expertise in delivering advanced mobility systems will ensure our platforms are unmatched in their ability to traverse complex terrains and operate in the most challenging battlefield scenarios,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.

“Milrem has excellent cooperation with the French defence industry already, and cooperating with Texelis will enhance this further,” Väärsi added.

“Texelis is thrilled to have been selected by a company such as Milrem Robotics, the undisputed world leader in robotics and autonomous solutions. Working on their new generation of combat systems is a fantastic opportunity for us to keep growing as a partner of choice for mobility. Getting aboard is a huge strategic step to see us getting into the tracked vehicle market, a new universe to add to our core expertise. Alongside a customer like Milrem, mobility has no limit!” commented Jean Vandel, CEO , Texelis.

Texelis will provide a high-performance Tank Electrified Drivetrain based on its extensive experience producing drivetrains and suspension solutions for armoured vehicles. This drivetrain will enable the new RCVs to operate in highly challenging terrain with superior endurance and manoeuvrability.

Leveraging Texelis’ technology, Milrem Robotics will utilize its established proficiency in developing unmanned ground vehicles to create a robust, scalable, modular, and mission-flexible RCV platform.

The cooperation allows Milrem Robotics to leverage France’s renowned vehicle mobility and engineering expertise. The cooperation will contribute to the European defence ecosystem, fostering greater industrial cooperation and ensuring the continent’s defence forces have access to state-of-the-art, homegrown robotic solutions. The collaboration aligns with broader European defence objectives, including autonomy in key technologies and increased regional security through strategic partnerships.

Posted in International, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Milrem Robotics Has Selected Texelis as a Strategic Supplier for the Development of Next-Generation Robotic Combat Vehicles