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Revision Wins NSPA Contract for NATO Eyewear

Monday, July 29th, 2024

BATTLEFIELD PROTECTION WITH EVERYDAY STYLE

Essex Junction, Vermont (for immediate release) – Revision Military, a world leader in purpose-built ballistic eye protection for military and tactical use, now has a framework contract with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to supply a range of high-performance protective eyewear. The largest global supplier of ballistic and laser protective military eyewear solutions, Revision is the solution for major MoDs worldwide and is now available to any NATO countries wishing to purchase through NSPA – serving NATO nations, military authorities, and partner nations by providing efficient and cost-effective multinational solutions and access to Revision protective eyewear.

The contract was awarded following extensive review of Revision’s protective eyewear solutions by the NSPA. The contract duration is 3 years with options to be extended to a maximum of 2 years.

Selected by NSPA to meet the protective eyewear needs of NATO users, Revision is offering multiple kits featuring SAWFLY^®, SAWFLY R3^® and STINGERHAWK^® spectacles, as well as DESERT LOCUST^®, WOLFSPIDER^®, MERLINHAWK^®, AND SNOWHAWK^® goggles, with EXOSHIELD^® parachute eyewear completing the offering. All these products are available in a variety of lens offerings, featuring I-Vis® color enhancing high contrast lenses and LazrBloc® ballistic laser protective lenses. All revision eyewear is scalable with mission-specific accessories (prescription RX carriers, replacement lenses, replacement temple arms, retention straps, balaclavas, and more) also available through the framework contract.

Revision eyewear has been tried and tested in operations worldwide and is already in service across multiple countries delivering unmatched levels of protection, technology, and comfort.

Rene Roy, Chief of NSPA General Supply and Services stated: “As NATO’s primary enabler, NSPA’s mission is to provide effective and cost efficient multinational solutions to the Alliance, its thirty-two Nations and Partners. This contract is a good example of NSPA’s value proposition to industry: through the web-based platform of the NATO Logistics Stock Exchange (NLSE), the Agency responds to the evolving needs of customers, enabling Nations to procure on-demand systems and articles directly from manufacturers. This contributes to the preparedness of Allies for NATO missions and operations”.

Karan Rai, Revision Chairman of the Board said: “I’m proud to announce our NSPA contract award. Revision has operated in Europe for many years. This contract framework provides a streamlined procurement vehicle for NATO countries and the ability to rapidly meet real-world eyewear requirements to protect soldiers on the battlefield now and in the future. “

ABOUT I-VIS More than a single solution, I-Vis lenses are available in six tints, each optimized for use in a different environment. With the power of artificial intelligence, Revision accounted for theater-specific color vision variables that consider the color palette of locations while modeling the most likely lighting conditions to occur in that area using global data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The result is a suite of lenses, each providing the best observational experience for a given environment without compromise. The suite features mil-spec eye protection with separate tints optimized for key areas of military operation around the globe. Each tint is designed to increase contrast and elevate color recognition in specific geographic regions, doing so without the negative effects associated with traditional monochromatic lens tints.

Above: Revision^® MerlinHawk^® Goggle featuring I-Vis^® Cano Lens and Gryphon Field Gaiter provides full neck and head coverage without interfering with headborne equipment.

ABOUT LAZRBLOC Revision’s LazrBloc eyewear provides a comprehensive laser protection solution: battle-proven by military forces and Law Enforcement around the globe. Revision has been at the forefront of laser and ballistic protective eyewear solutions for the past decade. Standard laser protective lenses are widely available, but much rarer are lenses that combine tailored laser protection as well as military-standard ballistic protection coupled with world-class anti-fog performance, integrated prescription correction and multiple sizes for optimal fit and comfort. LazrBloc lenses and eyewear solutions from Revision meet these requirements.

Above: Revision^® SnowHawk^® Goggle and StingerHawk^® Spectacle featuring LazrBloc^® FT-2 laser lens which protects against violet, blue and green lasers .

ABOUT REVISION Revision is relentlessly dedicated to protecting vision by developing and delivering purpose-built eye protection for military and tactical use worldwide. The Company has invested in the development and delivery of advanced ballistic and laser protective solutions for over two decades and has become the leading expert in protective eyewear solutions for military, law enforcement, and first responders, Revision specializes in designing products with the optimum balance of protection and performance and offers the ability for its customers to develop bespoke solutions based upon their unique threat and mission.

Revision Military is headquartered in Essex Junction, Vermont, USA. For more information, visit www.revisionmilitary.com, write media@revisionmilitary.com, or call +1 802.879.7002.

CONTACT

Revision
media@revisionmilitary.com

ABOUT NSPA The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) is NATO’s lead organisation for multinational acquisition, support and sustainment in all domains. NSPA is headquartered in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, with main operational centres in France, Hungary and Italy. The Agency employs over 1,500 staff and oversees more than 500 contractors worldwide.

CONTACT

NSPA
Denisa Pais
cco@nspa.nato.int

Tags: Eyepro, Revision Eyewear, Revision Military, Sunglasses
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Ghost Robotics Corporation and LIG Nex1 Announce Close of Acquisition

Monday, July 29th, 2024

LIG Nex1 will have a controlling stake in Ghost RoboticsPhiladelphia, PA and Seoul, South Korea – July 29, 2024 – Ghost Robotics, a leading innovator in legged robotics, and LIG Nex1, a premier South Korean defense technology company, are pleased to announce the close of a strategic partnership through LIG Nex1’s control-stake acquisition of Ghost Robotics. LIG Nex1 has acquired a 60% control-stake in Ghost Robotics for $240 million USD, valuing the company at $400 million USD.

This partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies as they combine their expertise and resources to advance the field of autonomous robotic solutions. The acquisition will enable Ghost Robotics to leverage LIG Nex1’s extensive experience and capabilities in defense technology and manufacturing to further accelerate scaling.

“We are thrilled to partner with LIG Nex1 and embark on this exciting new chapter for Ghost Robotics,” said Gavin Kenneally, PhD, Co-founder & CEO of Ghost Robotics. “Their investment and strategic guidance will accelerate our growth and enhance our ability to deliver groundbreaking robotic solutions to a wider range of industries and applications.”

LIG Nex1’s CEO, Shin IckHyun, echoed the enthusiasm, stating, “Our acquisition of a majority stake in Ghost Robotics aligns perfectly with our vision to lead the future of defense and security technology.” He added, “We expect this acquisition will serve as momentum for both companies to grow together based on our leading-edge technological capabilities and close cooperation.”

This partial acquisition will foster innovation and drive the development of next-generation robotic systems for both industrial and defense markets. By combining their strengths, Ghost Robotics and LIG Nex1 are well-positioned to lead the industry in delivering robust, versatile, and reliable robotic solutions.

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Milestone in Hungarian Infantry Fighting Vehicle Programme: Rheinmetall Hands Over First Lynx from Domestic Manufacturing

Sunday, July 28th, 2024

At a ceremony on 24 July 2024, Rheinmetall handed over the first KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) produced at the Zalaegerszeg site in Hungary to the Hungarian armed forces. On behalf of the Hungarian government, Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky attended the handover. Dr Björn Bernhard (Head of Rheinmetall Vehicle Systems Europe) and Paul Walf (CEO Rheinmetall Hungary) welcomed the guests on behalf of Rheinmetall.

The first Lynx from Hungarian production was already completed in December 2023. Following extensive functional inspections as well as performance and quality acceptances, it has now been officially handed over to the Hungarian armed forces.

In Zalaegerszeg, Rheinmetall Group operates the world’s most modern competence centre for the production of tracked armoured vehicles, in particular the highly innovative Lynx. The factory was opened in August 2023.

Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky, Defence Minister of Hungary: “I often say that peace requires strength, which means a lot of kinds of strength, and in this regard, we have gained real and serious strength with Rheinmetall and in this alliance, which significantly enriches Hungary. This is a kind of strategic partnership that is more than strategy or partnership – this is a real alliance, and within this framework, we hope to win the future for Hungarians, and we’re building something that will remain for the next generations, and we’re strengthening Hungary.”

Dr Björn Bernhard, Head of Rheinmetall Vehicle Systems Europe: “We are grateful to be able to support the Hungarian armed forces as an industrial partner in the Lynx lighthouse project. We have now reached an important milestone within the project. With the production of the Lynx, we are seriously proving our commitment in creating local added value in Hungary and transferring technology to the country. This model is also transferable to other countries which might also be interested in similar partnerships”.

In August 2020, the Hungarian Ministry of Defence commissioned the Rheinmetall Group to supply combat vehicles and associated services worth over

€2bn as part of its “Zrínyi 2026” initiative. A total of 209 Lynx KF41s are to be supplied to the Hungarian armed forces in seven variants: IFV, command post vehicle, armoured reconnaissance vehicle, fire control vehicle, mortar carrier, medical vehicle and driving school vehicle. A Lynx air defence tank with a Skyranger 30 turret is also in progress as part of another development contract, placed in December 2023.

In the first production phase, Hungary will receive 46 German-made Lynx infantry fighting vehicles by the end of 2025. The first vehicle from this series was handed over in October 2022. Production of the remaining vehicles began at the end of 2023 as part of the Rheinmetall Hungary Zrt. joint venture between Rheinmetall (51%) and the Hungarian government (49%) in Zalaegerszeg.

The state-of-the-art development and manufacturing site in Zalaegerszeg was opened on an area of approximately 33 hectares as part of the industrial complex ZALAZone in August 2023. The site also includes an extensively equipped test centre with a firing tunnel. In addition to strengthening the local economy, the factory also contributes to promoting innovation and, above all, creates around 300 highly qualified jobs. Rheinmetall plans additional investments in the site in the coming years in order to further increase production capacity. The establishment of the IFV and other variants will also strengthen the development of the Hungarian economy and defence industry.

Thanks to its modular design, the Lynx KF41 is characterised by maximum adaptability. This means that the Hungarian customer’s specific national requirements can be precisely fulfilled. The state-of-the-art infantry fighting vehicle impresses with its scalable armament, various layers of protection, upgradeable systems and the ability to take on new roles in just a few hours after being fully converted.

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Rheinmetall Manufactures 81mm Mortar Ammunition for the Swiss Armed Forces

Saturday, July 27th, 2024

The Düsseldorf-based technology group Rheinmetall has been commissioned by the Swiss Confederation to manufacture and supply 81mm mortar cargo ammunition. The total value of the order is in the mid double-digit million euro range.

The entire scope of supply comprises 81mm MX2-KM mortar weapons from Rheinmetall EXPAL Munitions SA as well as 81mm mortar cartridges Cargo for illumination white light, illumination infrared and smoke discharge based on RP (Red Phospor), which are manufactured by Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH at the Neuenburg am Rhein plant. The delivery is scheduled to be completed by 2025 and includes various additional services as part of the product launch.

The cartridges are qualified for the MX2-KM mortar of the Swiss armed forces and, together with the weapon system, form a mortar system in which both the ammunition and the weapon system are manufactured by Rheinmetall.

At the end of the qualification measures, the cargo cartridges were verified at a test site on the Spanish coast. The order underscores Rheinmetall’s expertise in the production of state-of-the-art steep-fire mortar ammunition.

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Lindnerhof Launches New Series of Modular Panels and Lightweight Belts

Friday, July 26th, 2024

LENGGRIES, GERMANY (25.07.2024)

Lindnerhof has launched a new line of modular panels crafted to securely store ammunition and essential mission gear. They’ve also released a slimmer, lighter version of their classic LT465 trouser belt.

By utilizing the extremely lightweight MX laminate, combined with slim webbing and light plastic components, these new products are designed to be both compact and lightweight.

The new MX713 and MX716 panels for shotgun ammunition come in 7 and 13 round versions. They are compatible with all Lindnerhof pouches that have a loop surface, whether inside or outside, due to the hook surface on the backside. Additionally, they feature a special loop for quick removal.

The LT230/II front panel is designed for easy detachment via hook surfaces and can serve as a spare or accessory part for the LT025/V & LT025/V A1/A2 plate carriers. This feature allows for quick replacement with other pre-equipped panels. The MOLLE/PALS on the front enable the attachment of various pouches.

The LT400/II Panel Back Assault zippable is a versatile all-rounder. It can be pre-equipped and easily attached or removed, even functioning as a modular backpack when connected to a plate carrier.

As an addition to the zip attachment, there are additional straps on the back for attaching to a MOLLE/PALS system if required to carry heavy loads. Along with the six 40mm grenade pouches at the top and the large multi-pouch at the bottom, which is lined with a loop surface on the inside, this panel features an inner compartment for tools or hydration bladders. This compartment can be folded out when needed to offer additional storage space.

The LT468 belt is a slimmer version of the LT465 inner belt, now available in a 35mm width instead of 50mm. This new size is designed to fit various combat pants as well as most common civilian trousers.

The popular features remain, including the quick attachment for modular belts via the loop surface outer side, integrated shaping plastic reinforcement, and the flat square ring closure. These elements ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

Learn more about Lindnerhof’s latest gear by visiting their website: lindnerhof-taktik.de

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Helikon-Tex Tracer Anorak

Thursday, July 25th, 2024

The Tracer Anorak Tracer is Helikon-Tex’ first unisex anorak camouflage jacket. Unlike the Woodsman Anorak it is based upon, it will incorporate camo patterns. The design features eight pockets as well as full pit zips.

Currently offered in Black, RAL 7013 and Polish Woodland pattern. Unfortunately, the two-tone isn’t available yet. Look for more colors and patterns soon.

www.helikon-tex.com/en_pln/ku-trr-sp-tracer-anorak-jacket

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Second RAF Protector Now Operating in Waddington

Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

With Two Protector RPAs in the UK, GA-ASI Has Delivered a Total of 10 Protectors to RAF;
First Four Cadres of RAF Aircrew Complete Training at FTTC

SAN DIEGO – 22 July 2024 – The United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF) now has two Protector RG Mk1 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) operating at RAF Waddington. The secondProtector has started its ground trial at RAF Station Waddington with first flight expected in August.Protector is based on the MQ-9B SkyGuardian®RPA developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), and is specially configured for the RAF. The RAF has taken delivery of 10 of their total order of 16 Protectors from GA-ASI, with eight aircraft currently undergoing RAF crew training, test, and evaluation in the United States.

“We’re thrilled to see a second Protector operating at Waddington,” said Chris Dusseault, GA-ASI’s vice president of MQ-9B in Europe. “The Royal Air Force is a great partner for GA-ASI, and we look forward to additional MQ-9B aircraft operating in the U.K. and more broadly across Europe.”

Simon Holford, Uncrewed Air Systems Delivery Team Leader at Defence Equipment & Support, said: “Seeing delivery and assembly of the second Protector aircraft in the UK is yet another measure of the significant progress on this project and testament to the hard work of everyone involved. Together with the three aircraft we have already taken delivery of in the US (which remain in the US for use in trials and/or training), we have now taken delivery of five of the sixteen aircraft we have ordered.”

Officer Commanding 31 Sqn, Wing Commander Maccoll said, “I’m delighted to see another RAF Protector assembled at RAF Waddington, thanks to the hard work of our Programme team, Defence partners, contractors, and the skill of 31 Squadron personnel. This Summer, Protector will undertake further test and evaluation and we expect more aircraft arrivals before the end of the year. “

In another program milestone, the first of four cadres of RAF aircrew completed training on April 29, 2024, at GA-ASI’s Flight Test and Training Center (FTTC) in Grand Forks, North Dakota. TheGA-ASI training involved RAF Operational Conversion Units (OCUs), which are comprised of eight crews, including pilots, sensor operators (SOs), and mission intelligence coordinators (MICs) from 31, 54, or 56 Squadrons.

The scope of the training is focused on foundational skills required to operate the Protector air vehicle and its equipment, including the Multi-Spectral Targeting System (MTS), Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), Mission Intelligence Station (MIS), and System for Tasking and Real-Time Exploitation (STARE). Training involves building solid foundations for both normal and emergency operations in Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems, instrument flying, and Automatic Takeoff and Landing Capability (ATLC).

With the completion of the Protector Technicians course at GA-ASI facilities in Southern California on May 16, 2024, Number 31 Squadron now has another 21 qualified maintainers. As part of their training course, the RAF maintainers were able to directly support the training flights for their aircrew counterparts who were completing the live flying element of their Operational Conversion course from North Dakota.

MQ-9B is GA-ASI’s next-generation RPA System (RPAS), delivering exceptionally long endurance and range, with auto takeoff and landing under SATCOM-only control, and will be able to operate in unsegregated airspace using the GA-ASI-developed Detect and Avoid system. In addition to the RAF, contracts have been signed with Belgium, Canada, Taiwan and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. The Japan Coast Guard is currently operating the MQ-9B for maritime operations, which the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) also selected for its Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Trial Operation Project. MQ-9B has additionally supported various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.

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GA-ASI to Host First Blue Magic Event in the Netherlands

Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024

Dual-Use Innovation and Funding Conference Gives Dutch Businesses
An Opportunity to Partner With World-Leading UAS Supplier

SAN DIEGO – 22 July 2024 – Following the success of Blue Magic events held in Belgium, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has scheduled its first Blue Magic event in the Netherlands on November 19, 2024. The Blue Magic Netherlands (BMN) event will be held in Eindhoven, a city known as a global technology hub. BMN will bring together Dutch startups, universities, government officials, aerospace leaders, and representatives from other high-tech industries, who will see technology advancements within the Dutch technology ecosystem and connect qualified partners with funding opportunities to support next generation dual use solutions.

Joining GA-ASI for the event will be partners Lockheed Martin Ventures, Brabant Development Agency (BOM), and the Netherlands Industries for Defence & Security (NIDV), as well as Brainport Development, an organization that develops regional economic strategy and projects, and promotes Brainport Eindhoven at home and abroad.

“We want to build on our successful Blue Magic concept, which fosters a collaborative partnering environment for technology ideation, and bring it to the Netherlands,” said Brad Lunn, Managing Director-Strategic Finance at GA-ASI. “We look forward to hosting thought leaders in the Dutch innovation ecosystem for a full day of technology interchange. Our goal is to provide a single forum for sharing ideas and implementation strategies that can shape the course of technology and defense systems and ultimately make the world safer.”

GA-ASI delivered its MQ-9A Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) to the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) in 2021 and recently announced an increase in the total order of MQ-9As in its service to eight.

GA-ASI held its first European Blue Magic event in 2019, with subsequent events held in 2020, 2021, and 2023. Since the inception of Blue Magic, GA-ASI has commenced work with a broad range of European and international businesses. For the Blue Magic Netherlands event, GA-ASI and other participants will hear technology pitches followed by a lively panel discussion and host a networking event where participants can meet with other high-tech businesses and leaders to see if their capabilities can be leveraged in new and useful ways.

Areas of focus for BMN 2024 will be artificial intelligence/machine learning, autonomy, advanced materials, sensors, advanced manufacturing, and space.

Businesses interested in participating in the BMN 2024 event should visit the event website for additional information.

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