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Archive for the ‘Mobility’ Category

EV Pioneer Donut Defence Selected for International Defence Technology Accelerator

Monday, March 24th, 2025

DEFINE Accelerator program, a three-month intensive initiative, brings together top players in defence and security technology to drive innovation, commercialization and global market expansion. Donut Defence is optimistic about the significant support this program will provide for its business scaling efforts and the potential for new partnerships.

The Finnish company Donut Defence, which develops and manufactures electric vehicle technologies for the defence industry, has been selected to participate in the DEFINE Accelerator program. Kicking off today, this international defence industry accelerator is coordinated by the City of Riihimäki and venture capital firm Redstone VC in collaboration with the Finnish Defence Forces as well as leading companies and research institutions in the field. The program connects leading players focused on the development and scaling of defence, security and dual-use technologies.

Donut Defence is transforming military mobility with its groundbreaking modular electric vehicle technologies. The Donut Motor, a powerhouse that boasts unparalleled payload capacity driven by exceptional power and torque density, is a prime example of the company’s innovative approach. The DEFINE Accelerator offers Donut Defence an excellent opportunity to deepen its ties with key industry players and strengthen its position as a global innovator.

“We are honored to join the DEFINE Accelerator program, providing us with a unique opportunity to introduce the game-changing performance of the Donut Motor and further develop our EV technologies. We look forward to building new partnerships to support our growth and help us meet the evolving needs of the defence industry. This selection reinforces our belief in the importance of our disruptive technology and boosts confidence among industry players,” says Michael Waksman, CEO of Donut Defence.

Alongside Donut Defence, several international companies from Finland, Germany and Denmark have been selected for the DEFINE Accelerator program. These companies bring a diverse range of defence security technologies to the table, such as unmanned aerial systems, UAV charging stations, counter-UAV, robotics, energy storage, quantum processors and non-toxic decontamination.

“DEFINE was created to accelerate ecosystem development among NATO countries. Our program helps startups grow rapidly by connecting them with end-users and providing valuable feedback. In addition to standard accelerator criteria—such as team strength, scalability, and innovation—we prioritize startups that bring meaningful solutions to enhance Finland’s and Europe’s security of supply. We also assess how well the Finnish Defence Forces and other security end-users can adopt these solutions. Donut Defence stood out as an easy choice for our second batch. They manufacture the world’s most powerful electric motor, have a highly experienced international team, offer a solution that is easy to adopt and possesses a business model that can scale exceptionally fast,” says The Head of the DEFINE Accelerator program, Director of Technology and Innovation at the City of Riihimäki, Teemu Seppälä.

The DEFINE Accelerator kicks off today with an event in Riihimäki, Finland.

Donut Defence

DEFINE Accelerator

Youtube

Posted in International, Mobility, Power, Press Release | No Comments »

Enforce Tac 25 – SAND-X Dual Operating Vehicle

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

The SAND-X Dual Operating Vehicle (DOV) is a product of EISELIN Landsystems, a German company. It has been in active service with various units since 2008 and can be used in a manned configuration or operated as an Unmanned Ground System in a variety of roles. It can be switched between modes in seconds and controlled via mesh network extenders.

Thanks to its combination of wide-set forward wheels and tracked rear drive, it offers a low clean enter of gravity and will negotiate roads just as well as on soft substrates like sand and snow.

Here is a list of missions the SAND-X is currently used for:

1. Unmanned Attack: Equipped with advanced weaponry and autonomous capabilities, the SAND-X DOV executes precision strikes on enemy targets while minimizing risk to personnel.

2. ISNR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance): Conducting manned and unmanned reconnaissance missions, the SAND-X DOV gathers crucial intelligence for strategic planning using state-of-the-art sensors and surveillance equipment.

3. CASEVAC (Casualty Evacuation): Facilitating rapid evacuation of injured personnel from the battlefield to medical facilities, the SAND-X DOV ensures timely medical care with its manned and unmanned capabilities, supported by its rugged design and medical support infrastructure.

4. Resupply: Serving as a reliable logistics platform, the SAND-X DOV transports essential supplies and equipment to forward operating bases, bolstering frontline operations and sustaining combat effectiveness with manned and unmanned operations.

5. Mesh Network Creation: Establishing robust mesh networks, the SAND-X DOV enables seamless communication and coordination between deployed units in remote and hostile environments, leveraging its manned and unmanned communication capabilities.

6. Fighting Vehicle/Combat Vehicle: Transforming into a formidable combat vehicle, the SAND-X DOV engages hostile forces and provides fire support to friendly units, configured with armaments and defensive systems, whether manned or unmanned.

7. Minefield Detection and Crossing: Detecting and navigating through minefields, the SAND-X DOV ensures safe passage for troops and vehicles during urgent missions with its manned and unmanned capabilities, utilizing advanced sensors and unmanned operation.

www.sand-x.com

Posted in Enforce Tac, Mobility, Robotics | No Comments »

Ermine – Rheinmetall’s New Lightweight Hybrid Vehicle Family for Modern Armed Forces

Tuesday, March 4th, 2025

Rheinmetall is showing its tactical small vehicle family Ermine for the first time at the Enforce Tac. It represents a new generation of tactical mobility, combining tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid). Operational creativity is at the core Ermine’s design. Its features enable it to act as an effective force multiplier. Ermine can operate remotely controlled and is prepared for autonomy.

The modular Ermine family currently consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad. Various 4×4 and 6×6 variants are available. All vehicles are based on the same diesel-electric hybrid drivetrain and base platform. This gives Ermine maximum modularity with unrivalled agility. Thanks to the hybrid technology, up to one ton of payload, a range of more than 1,000 kilometres and a top speed of 90 km/h are possible, depending on the vehicle’s configuration. Up to four Ermine vehicles can be transported by cargo helicopters such as the CH-47 or CH-53.

The Ermine vehicles can be configured for various purposes, including reconnaissance & liaison, special operations, anti-tank, weapon carriers,
MedEvac or generator function. At Enforce Tac 2025, Rheinmetall showcased a 4×4 quad with the ROSY smoke/obscurant system and special operation forces equipment. One element is the Mobile Mission Pod (MMP, which also made its debut at Enforce Tac.)

The MMP is designed to conduct standoff reconnaissance and engage enemy forces using small UAVs. Developed primarily for special operations forces, it enables maximum effectiveness behind enemy lines. Thanks to its long standby time and remote operability in conjunction with artificial intelligence (AI), the MMP is designed to be able to operate against enemy forces long after it has been deployed to the battlefield. The MMP combines the expertise of existing products as well as current technologies and experiences from current conflicts in a new product that is outstanding in its capabilities. Thanks to its high degree of automation, AI support and standalone design, it significantly expands the mission portfolio of armed forces, enabling missions that were previously considered impossible.

The Ermine vehicles are furthermore characterised by high mobility in almost any terrain and can also be driven completely silent thanks to their electric drive. If the vehicles are not used for tactical mobility, they can be used as a mobile energy source. The Ermine family can therefore significantly increase the operational value of armed forces.

The Ermine technology was developed in the Netherlands by the start-up company REEQ – a subsidiary of Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. since March 2024 – and is being produced there. The acquisition of REEQ enables Rheinmetall to serve the Dutch and European market in the field of light tactical mobility, both manned and unmanned, in combination with a microgrid – and with short delivery times. Thereby 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 serial production of these vehicles will also take place in the Netherlands.

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

Rheinmetall Celebrates the Completion of the LAND 121 Program – Over 3,500 HX Trucks Delivered

Friday, February 21st, 2025

On 20 February 2025, Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Australia (RMMVA) celebrated the successful conclusion of the LAND 121 Phase 3B/5B program together with the Australian Department of Defence. The Final Acceptance ceremony took place at Rheinmetall’s Military Vehicles Center of Excellence (MILVEHCOE) in Queensland. The Australian Defence Force procured its fleet of logistics vehicles based on the proven HX truck as part of the LAND 121 project. Over 3500 vehicles were delivered on time and within budget. RMMVA is the largest supplier of military logistics vehicles for the Australian Army.

The Final Acceptance Ceremony marks the successful completion of a just over ten-year procurement program on time and on budget. A total of 3,580 medium and heavy military logistics trucks and 3,165 modules and protected cabs have been delivered. The Australian HX fleet includes recovery vehicle, transporter, self-loading hook-lift, fuel truck, tractor and tipper configurations. Testing and verification was carried out at the Australian Automotive Research Centre (AARC) near Anglesea, Victoria.

Michael Wittlinger, Chief of Staff of Rheinmetall AG and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Australia Pty Ltd.: “The HX truck is the workhorse of the Australian Army and provides the Australian Defence Force with outstanding capabilities. The entire workforce of Rheinmetall Defence Australia and Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Australia is grateful to have successfully completed the project together with the Commonwealth of Australia.”

“The first HX trucks procured under the LAND 121 Phase 3B/5B program entered service more than ten years ago. Since then, the HX truck has proven to be a mainstay for the Australian supply force.”

“These vehicles are the logistical backbone of the Australian Army, transporting troops, food, water and other equipment throughout Australia,” said Wittlinger.

“The HX trucks are built in the Austrian capital of Vienna by Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles. Final assembly of the Australian fleet was undertaken at Rheinmetall Defence Australia in south-east Queensland, and supported by our team members in Victoria and Queensland.”

With the procurement process complete, Rheinmetall is transitioning to support and sustain the HX fleet, utilising a national network of partners and suppliers.

“Our team of Field Service Representatives follow the members of the Australian Army with the HX trucks to all corners of Australia to ensure the reliability and serviceability of the vehicle fleet,” Mr Wittlinger said.

More than 20,000 RMMV HX trucks are in service with various NATO member and partner nations, providing crucial logistical capabilities and mobility for complex missions. Australia is part of an international HX user family that includes New Zealand, Germany, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Austria, Singapore and Canada.

The extremely robust HX trucks are military-off-the-shelf systems. They are powered by a six-cylinder in-line diesel engine. The maximum weight can be up to 41,000 kilograms. The vehicles can operate in temperatures ranging from -32° Celsius to +49° Celsius and can traverse water depths of more than 1.5 metres. Possible variants include: integrated and automated load handling system, swap body, crane, container carrier, recovery vehicle, tractor, tanker, tipper, system carrier and artillery system.

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

QuietKat eBikes to Showcase Military and Law Enforcement Models at EnforceTac 2025

Friday, February 21st, 2025

Irvine, CA – QuietKat eBikes, the leader in high-performance electric bikes, is excited to announce its participation in EnforceTac 2025, taking place February 24-26, 2025, in Nuremberg, Germany. The company will exhibit its specialized military and law enforcement e-Bike models at the event, hosted in partnership with Templar’s Gear at booth 9-415.

Ross Botha, QuietKat’s MLE Sales Manager, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming showcase: “We are proud to present our military and law enforcement e-Bike models at EnforceTac 2025. We invite everyone to visit us at Templar’s Gear, booth 9-415, where our Eastern European distributor, ZTG, LLC, will be displaying our cutting-edge e-Bikes.”

Joining Botha at the event will be Zibi Szlek, President and Owner of ZTG, LLC. Both will be available on-site to engage with customers, answer inquiries, and provide detailed product information.

QuietKat’s police and military e-Bikes are engineered from the ground up to meet the demands of tough-use environments. Built with a focus on durability, enhanced mobility, and long-term sustainability, these e-Bikes are trusted by military forces and law enforcement agencies worldwide. Offering a practical and cost-effective solution, QuietKatcontinues to redefine operational efficiency for professionals in the field.

For those interested in scheduling a meeting or seeking additional information, please contact Ross Botha at ross@quietkat.com or ZibiSzlek at ztgllc@icloud.com.

Posted in Enforce Tac, Mobility, Press Release | No Comments »

Team O’Neil’s Tactical Driving Tuesday – Counter-Interdiction

Tuesday, February 4th, 2025

Not interested in having your vehicle boxed and possibly kidnapped, or other exposed to other nefarious goings on? Then you need to think about counter-interdiction tactics. Like Instructor Wyatt will tell you, keep it moving; no matter what.

If you’re in need of in-person training like this, sign up for the Team O’Neil Tactical Driving Course at their facility in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This five-day course includes driving under NODS and is available to military and other government agencies as well as civilians.

Posted in Guest Post, Mobility, Training | No Comments »

Team O’Neil’s Tactical Driving Tuesday – Car Fighting

Tuesday, January 28th, 2025

Fighting from your vehicle. It’s a topic rarely discussed and even more rarely practiced in training.

Posted in Guest Post, Mobility, Training | Comments Off on Team O’Neil’s Tactical Driving Tuesday – Car Fighting

QuietKat e-Bikes Returns to SHOT Show with Exciting Demonstrations and Displays

Wednesday, January 15th, 2025

Irvine, CA – QuietKat, the leader in high-performance electric bikes, is thrilled to announce its return to the 2025 SHOT Show in Las Vegas. Attendees will have multiple opportunities to experience QuietKat’s cutting-edge eBike technology during the show.

On Monday, January 20, 2025, QuietKat e-Bikes will be available for live demonstrations at Range/Media Day, giving attendees a hands-on experience with their innovative models.

Throughout the show, QuietKat’s static displays will be showcased at two key locations:

• US Tactical Supply booth #75426

• SNO Trailers booth #75427

Both displays will be located in Caesar’s Forum and will feature QuietKat’s latest and most advanced eBike models.

QuietKat Sales Manager, Ross Botha, and Consumer Services Specialist, Conor O’Brien, will be on-site to meet with attendees, answer questions, and provide insights into the QuietKat eBike system. They will highlight the diverse range of QuietKat models designed for both professional and recreational users.

Some of the exciting models on display include:

• The Patrol and the new QPFS, tailored for military and law enforcement applications, along with the rugged QPXD, built for extreme-use environments.

• The latest innovation for outdoor and hunting enthusiasts, the Apex HD.

For more information or to schedule a meeting, please contact Ross Botha at ross@quietkat.com.

Posted in Mobility, Press Release, SHOT Show | Comments Off on QuietKat e-Bikes Returns to SHOT Show with Exciting Demonstrations and Displays