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Marine Corps makes history with mine plow prototype for Assault Breacher Vehicle

Saturday, February 10th, 2018

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. —

The Marine Corps’ Assault Breacher Vehicle made history last year when it conducted its first amphibious landing with a Modified Full Width Mine Plow prototype during a long-range breaching exercise in the western United States.

U.S. Marines from 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, prepare to load an Assault Breacher Vehicle onto a Landing Craft Utility at Camp Pendleton, California. All vehicles were loaded onto LCUs then transported to the USS Rushmore to conduct the first amphibious landing in an ABV with a Modified Full Width Mine Plow prototype. Marine Corps Systems Command tested the prototype which will make it easier to transport the ABV from ship to shore. (Courtesy photo)

In December 2017, Marine Corps Systems Command used Exercise Steel Knight as an opportunity to test the Modified Full Width Mine Plow prototype for the first time. Steel Knight is a division-level exercise designed to enhance command and control, and interoperability with the 1st Marine Division, its adjacent units and naval support forces.

In the future, this piece of equipment will make it easier for Marines to land and deploy an ABV from a Navy Landing Craft Utility boat to the shore to complete their mission.

U.S. Marines from 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, conduct the first amphibious landing in an Assault Breacher Vehicle with a Modified Full Width Mine Plow prototype during Exercise Steel Knight on the west coast. Marine Corps Systems Command tested the prototype which will make it easier to transport the ABV from ship to shore. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Rhita Daniel)

“Our legacy Full Width Mine Plow on the ABV could not fit onto an LCU because it was too wide,” said Timothy Barrons, ABV project officer for Engineer Systems at Marine Corps Systems Command. “The prototype we are testing fills a current capability gap and gives commanders the flexibility to use multiple surface connectors to get ABVs in the fight.”

The modified plow prototype is not only easier to transport, but safer to use, Barrons said. Once the LCU drops the bow ramp onto land, Marines can drive the ABV off the boat, open the plow and breach the area to ensure they eliminate any unsafe obstacles.

“The Assault Breacher Vehicle is the premiere breaching tool in the Marine Corps, and there is no other tool like it,” said Alvin “Tommy” West, ABV platform engineer. “It can carry two Linear Demolition Charges (commonly referred to as the line charge) on the back with over a thousand pounds of C4 explosives in each of the charge. A rocket is attached to each line charge to propel the charge, which is critical when clearing a path through mine fields.”

After the line charge detonates, landmines in its path are destroyed or rendered ineffective. Marines use the mine plow to sift through the mine field and push any remaining landmines off to the side, leaving a safe path for the assault force.

“This plow prototype makes the ABV transportable and gives the commander options to accomplish his tasks on the battlefield,” said Barrons. “The capability makes the force more lethal because it helps keep other combat vehicles intact and saves the lives of Marines.”

The ABV Program Team plans to take the information and feedback from Marines gathered at Steel Knight to refine the design and improve the overall performance of the modified plow. The team wants to ensure the modified plow will meet all requirements of the legacy mine plow in performance and survivability. After the redesign is completed, the articles will be tested at the U.S. Army Aberdeen Test Center in Maryland.

“Because the plow is foldable and deals directly with explosives, it is going to take some hits, so we need to ensure it is more reliable than the legacy mine plow which was not hinged or foldable,” said West. “There is no other piece of gear in the Marine Corps that does what the ABV with the Full Width Mine Plow does. Our goal is to make the new plow even more reliable and easier to maintain.”
The ABV Program is a part of Engineer Systems under the Logistics Combat Element Systems program at Marine Corps Systems Command.

By Kaitlin Kelly, MCSC Office of Public Affairs and Communication | Marine Corps Systems Command

Posted in CIED, Guest Post, MARCORSYSCOM, Mobility | 2 Comments »

GAOS 18 – Argo ATVs

Thursday, February 8th, 2018

Argo has long been known for the six and eight wheeled amphibious light vehicles but this year they’ve introduced ATVs.

The Xplorer XR series comes standard with Innova tires, steel racks, front differential lock and anti-vibration 2″ receiver hitch. There are three models, all with a 503cc, EFI, liquid cooled, single cylinder, four-stroke engine.

You can also take a step up to the two-passenger XRT 500/1000 models. The 500 series is available in three models like the single seater, but there’s also a 997cc, EFI, liquid cooled, twin cylinder four-stroke engine model.

www.argoxtv.com

Tags: Argo
Posted in GAOS, Mobility | 2 Comments »

Team Polaris Unveils MRZR X

Tuesday, February 6th, 2018

MINNEAPOLIS and ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (February 6, 2018) — Team Polaris is displaying its advanced M RZR® X multi-mode, connected vehicle platform for the first time this week at the AUVSI Unmanned Systems show. As military forces worldwide look to lighten the warfighter’s load now and smartly network vehicles in the multi-domain battlefield in the coming years, the MRZR X provides an evolving, robotics capable, multi-mission platform. In addition, the MRZR X provides worldwide commonality with the MRZRs already in service in the U.S. and more than 30 allied nations.

“The MRZR is the preferred platform among infantry units and Special Forces worldwide, which helps make its integration and the transition from manned to unmanned systems easier for the warfighter,” said John Olson, PhD, vice president and general manager of Polaris Government and Defense. “The MRZR X maintains the MRZR mission profile and payload our customers are accustomed to, plus it has additional robotic and networked capabilities to further support warfighters.”

The MRZR X provides warfighters with a modular support platform and various modes of operation: traditional operator driving and multiple levels of autonomy, including the capability for remote control, teleoperation, follow-me, leader-follower and full autonomy. This allows the MRZR X to enhance and evolve mobility in varying roles, such as robotic equipment mule, autonomous resupply, warfighter-driven squad carrier, logistics support vehicle, rescue missions and high-speed casualty evacuation. In the future, the connectivity of the MRZR X will provide the ability to act as a networked node in the multi-domain battlespace.

ARA has been producing Modular Robotic Applique Kits (M-RAKs) for more than 20 years, with a specialty in off-road robotics, further enhanced by the acquisition of Neya Systems. The advanced MRZR X fully integrates the autonomy systems and optimally places the sensors to safeguard the technology while keeping the physical and software architecture open so it can spiral in future technology. The vehicle drivetrain is powerful and reliable, allowing for longer missions, high speeds and silent drive when needed – all on the very familiar, sustainable and intuitive MRZR platform.

Polaris Industries Inc., Applied Research Associates Inc. (ARA) and Neya Systems LLC formally teamed in 2017. The Team Polaris M RZR® X evolves squad mobility with advanced unmanned systems technology from ARA and the pioneering and unsurpassed autonomous systems behavior of Neya Systems. Team Polaris has many pursuits – together and individually – with U.S. services, allied militaries and commercial programs.

Tags: ARA Robotics Solutions, Polaris Government & Defense
Posted in Mobility, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Team Polaris Unveils MRZR X

Polaris Government and Defense Announces Recent Contracts with Latvia and Turkmenistan

Thursday, January 25th, 2018

Polaris® Government and Defense Signs a Two-Year Agreement with Latvia

Minneapolis, January 24, 2018 – Latvian National Armed Forces has entered a two-year agreement with Polaris Government and Defense for vehicles via the U.S. government’s foreign military sales program. The approximately US$500 thousand contract is for undisclosed quantities of the Polaris M RZR® 2 side-by-side vehicles, SPORTSMAN® 6×6 and MV850™ all-terrain vehicles. The contract also includes spare parts for the vehicles, as well as operator and maintenance training, which will be conducted in country by Polaris.

“Latvia’s contract for MRZR 2 and ATVs will greatly enhance the mobility of their fleet in the Baltics, positively impacting their tactical advantage and support efforts to reinforce Latvia borders,” stated Doug Malikowski, director of international business development, Polaris Government and Defense.

Over the years, Latvia has strengthened security on the border due to increased regional disputes. The Polaris ultralight and all-terrain vehicles will be used primarily for border security. Polaris military vehicles provide off-road mobility for expeditionary forces in the U.S. and more than 25 allied countries to meet current and future mission demands and threats. Polaris service ranges throughout the world, creating a high degree of interoperability and commonality among U.S. and allied forces, such as Latvia.

Polaris vehicles ensure flexibility and modularity to support the various ranging uses including: border patrol, rapid personnel deployment, command and control, casualty and evacuation and supply transport missions. The vehicles are proven, reliable, and easily maintained through the Polaris global network.

Turkmenistan Special Operation Forces Equipped with Polaris Vehicles

Minneapolis, January 24, 2018 – The Turkmenistan Special Operation Forces has awarded a multimillion-dollar contract to Polaris Government and Defense for military and commercial vehicles. The Polaris vehicles provide mobility options to their combat commanders to pose multiple dilemmas to the enemy.

“Polaris is looking forward to supporting the Government of Turkmenistan and their defense forces as they update their ground vehicle fleet with Polaris lightweight tactical vehicles,” said Doug Malikowski, director of international business development. “The vehicles we provide are highly transportable, off-road capable and are relied on for helping Special Forces navigate restrictive and complex environments.”

Polaris was also honored to have had its vehicles featured in the Turkmenistan Independence Day parade. Polaris Government and Defense has other military customers in Central Asia including Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Philippines, and Malaysia.

With seating for up to nine, DAGOR™ comprises the optimal balance of rapid air transportability, payload capacity and advanced mobility. DAGOR gives an advantage back to dismounted warfighters, allowing formations to move faster, carry more and significantly reduce combat fatigue. And its weight and size allow it to be internally transportable on a variety of in-service aircraft, including CH-47 and C-130.

The Polaris M RZR® platform is flexible and modular to support uses ranging from rapid personnel deployment, to command and control, casualty evacuation to supply transport missions. MRZRs have redefined ultralight, off-road mobility for military vehicles and are mission critical for expeditionary forces in the U.S. and allied countries.

The MV850™ is loaded with features which make it as comfortable as it is powerful. Operators experience less fatigue because the MV850 provides the smoothest, most responsive power steering available in an all-terrain vehicle, variable assist for easier steering and active descent control and engine breaking system work together to monitor and control descent and deceleration. A powerful engine, two fuel tanks and 270 kg (600 lbs) of total rack capacity make it optimal for long distances.

Polaris vehicles are proven, affordable, reliable and easily maintained throughout the lifecycle with a commercial supply chain and the Polaris global network. to meet current and future mission demands and threats. And because the vehicles are in service throughout the world, there is a high degree of interoperability and commonality among U.S. and allied forces.

Tags: Polaris Government & Defense
Posted in Contracts, International, Mobility, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Fimbulvetr Presents Lightweight and Heavy Duty News at this Year’s Outdoor Retailer

Friday, January 19th, 2018

The Norwegian brand Fimbulvetr continues its revolutionary path to change the snowshoe category. At Outdoor Retailer in January 2018, the company is introducing 3 major upgrades to their product portfolio.

1. New model TRAILR: Smaller size for mobility and pace
Fimbulvetr TRAILR has been designed and tested over the last 12 months, based on the same premium qualities as every Fimbulvetr snowshoe. The concept came to life after feedback from users in USA and Canada, requesting the unique Fimbulvetr experience on a smaller snowshoe. The result is the slimmest Fimbulvetr model ever, optimized for mobility and speed, on and off the tracks.

2. Launching the A-Series and X-Series
In 2018/19 all Fimbulvetr snowshoes will be available in two sets of technical specifications – the A- Series and the X-Series.
A-Series: Lightweight performance
The A-Series provides a full Fimbulvetr experience, focusing on lightness and flexibility. They come with a new crampon and heel-lifts design, in a super strong and innovative material; Grilamid®. At a lower selling price, the Fimbulvetr brand is now accessible to a wider crowd of outdoors people.
X-Series: Heavy duty impact
The X-series signifies the extreme version of each Fimbulvetr model. At a premium price, they are configured for the most progressive and aggressive use. The snowshoe is produced in a slightly stiffer compound, and includes AISI 316 stainless steel crampons and heel-lifts.

3. The brand new Hugin Binding. An ultimate upgrade for current snowshoes, and available on all new models.
The Hugin Binding is a fully redesigned version of the original Fimbulvetr binding, for ease of use and stability. Straps and buckles are swapped for an efficient lace and lock system. The lacing provides tight, even pressure and support around the foot, kept in place by an intuitive and roust locking mechanism.

http://www.fimbulvetr.no

Tags: Fimbulvetr
Posted in Mobility, Mountaineering, Outdoor Retailer | Comments Off on Fimbulvetr Presents Lightweight and Heavy Duty News at this Year’s Outdoor Retailer

O P Tactical Exclusive Dealer of Klim’s MultiCam Vigilant Uniform

Tuesday, January 9th, 2018

O P Tactical has an exclusive partnership with Klim to sell their Multicam Vigilant uniform. Built specifically for mobility operations and for wear over a Crye Combat Uniform with JPC. This Gore-Tex (also available in FR version) is state of the art and carries many user specified features that make it one of the best deals on the market. This is not for wearing to the grocery store, it’s built specifically for long range mobility operations while wearing kit. I also serves as a great level 6 uniform for full weather protection on all operations.

These uniforms are first come, first serve, and ship directly to the consumer from Klim. This item is priced to go, and will be discontinued when supplies are depleted.

Product Description:

KLIM® invented the formula for creating superior technical apparel, which is designed to dominate the full spectrum of environments and situations. KLIM® carries a history and prestige of developing the most technical snow and motorcycle apparel on the market with gear that protects against the most extreme elements while enhancing the user’s experience.

The KTS™ VIGILANT™ Jacket and Pant are weatherproof, flame-resistant (Optional) (no-melt, no-drip, no-fuse), extremely durable and offer operator-specific functionality that will perform as it needs to when the unpredictable occurs.

FLAME-RESISTANT (Optional)
There are a number of reasons to wear flame-resistant garments – from the catastrophic to the negligible and from the frequent to the unlikely; explosion, burning fuel, flame, hot gun barrels, hot vehicle exhaust, hot parts, hot shells, drying near a fire and many other day-to-day risks.

Designed with a flame retardant Nomex® outer layer and a durably waterproof, windproof, and breathable GORE-TEX® fabric, the KTS™ VIGILANT™ Jacket and Pant keep the user comfortable by allowing moisture to escape from the garment. GORE-TEX® fabric maintains protection over time, even after exposure to JP-8, DEET, petroleum, oils, and lubricants.

KIT ACCESS
Preparing for your day brings up several questions: Will the gear fit over my body armor? If I zip up my gear how quickly will I be able to access my kit? Will my gear hold up to unpredictable circumstances? Should I sacrifice comfort or protection?

Now you don’t have to choose. The KTS™ VIGILANT™ Jacket and Pant are designed from the ground up to be compatible with your body armor (specifically, a stand-alone plate carrier) and accessories while simultaneously being weatherproof and breathable.

The front entry panel with magnetic closure allows quick access to center-mounted magazines while the jacket is fully zipped.

The body armor gusset on the back of the jacket prevents any constriction of movement and allows room for your kit on the back of the plate carrier.

Zippered entries allow access to kit on your sides and back without removing or unzipping the jacket.

WEATHERPROOF
KLIM® gear is extensively field-tested in rain, dirt, snow and wind to ensure it exceeds the highest standards and passes GORE-TEX® quality requirements. The KTS™ VIGILANT™ Jacket and Pant are GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY® with all of your kit in place underneath.

DURABILITY
Your TTPs and physical training exist to allow you to react and respond in any situation. Your gear must support the TTPs and keep up with your activity level and the conditions in which you find yourself. The KTS™ VIGILANT™ Jacket and Pant are heavy-duty combat-ready shells.

TACTICAL ATHLETE
The KTS™ VIGILANT’s fit is designed for the Tactical Athlete’s body, articulated to compliment your range of motion and is constructed with Nomex® thread, bartac-reinforced stress points and Superfabric® strategically placed in high-wear areas. The entire system is machine washable and will continue to deliver through many assignments.

JACKET FEATURES

-Heavy duty, combat ready, weatherproof, and flame resistant (optional) weather Gore-Tex shell designed to be worn over kit
-Guaranteed to keep you dry
-Gore-Tex superfabric in high wear areas
-Direct magazine access front pocket with magnet closures
-Cell tag/ IFF panel exposed when accessing mag
-Concealed cell tag/ IFF panel on front access panel
-Playbook pockets on each forearm with magnetic cover and zippered closure for security
-Ability to operate touch screens on devices stored in playbook pockets
-Expansion back with gusseted/ zippered/ magnet closure control for kit
-Operator cut removabale sleeves at bicep line (can be stored in kangaroo pocket)
-Three-headed side zips for accessing kit and ventilation
-Adjustable back vents/ access point
-Kit access from front/ side/ back
-Bar tack reinforcements of all stress joints
-High quality YKK zippers
-Magnet dot closures
-Zipper security flaps
-Shock cord adjustments on bottom hem and neckline
-Front kangaroo pocket
-Kill switch D-Ring for mobility operations

PANT FEATURES

** The lifetime of a product unfortunately does not mean your lifetime. The intensity under which the product is used determines this factor. Rips, tears, cuts, punctures, burns, accidents, improper care, negligence, normal wear-and-tear, modifications, alterations or use for a purpose other than which the product designed will void the lifetime warranty of even if the warranty issue is not related to these damages.

Tags: Klim, OP Tactical
Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, Mobility | 10 Comments »

The Armored Group Celebrates 25th Anniversary Manfacturing State-of-the-Art Vehicles Designed to Keep Military, Law Enforcement and High-Profile Clients Safe

Friday, December 29th, 2017

(Phoenix, AZ – December 28, 2017) The Armored Group (TAG), a worldwide provider of armored and highly specialized vehicles, announced they are celebrating their 25th anniversary this month. Starting as a cash-in-transit (CIT) business in 1992, the company has expanded to include armored vehicles used by law enforcement, SWAT, police, tactical and individuals needing the highest level of personal protection. Today, the company is one of the largest full-line commercial armored vehicles suppliers with manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Canada, Dubai, India and now in Germany with their recent acquisition of JPA Armoring & Fahrzeugbau Stadthagen GmBH.

Below is a timeline of milestones leading TAG’s growth over the last 25 years:

• 1992: The Armored Group is founded by Robert Pazderka; the company’s first order for armored Cash in Transit (CIT) vehicles is from Illinois Armor, now a Garda Company
• 1993: TAG is contracted as the exclusive builder of armored CIT vehicles for industry leaders like (Garda), Loomis, Dunbar and Brinks
• 2004: TAG begins production of armored SUV’s and Sedans for the US Government
• 2005: TAG designs and manufactures its first APC, the Ballistic Armored Tactical Transport (BATT), an armored personnel carrier 2006: TAG is awarded a 20-Year Long-Term Agreement (LTA) contract for armored vehicles to the US Federal and State Governments2006: TAG begins production of non-armored vehicles with Rapid Deployment and Mobile Command Vehicles
• 2008: TAG expands its global footprint with a new manufacturing plant in Toronto, Canada
• 2008: TAG is awarded its first LTA with the United Nations
• 2009: TAG expands its global footprint with a new manufacturing plant in the United Arab Emirates
• 2010: TAG expands its global footprint with a new manufacturing plant in Detroit, Michigan
• 2010: TAG is awarded a second 20-Year LTA contract for custom tactical vehicles to the US Federal and State Governments 2011: TAG’s LTA with the UN was renewed
• 2012: TAG’s VR7 armor solution is tested and certified by Beschassamt in Ulm, Germany
• 2013: TAG is awarded a second LTA with other United Nation offices
• 2014: TAG extends its LTA with the United Nations
• 2015: TAG’s awarded a third LTA with the United Nations 2016: TAG is awarded contract from SPAWAR for Custom Mobile Communications Vehicles (MCV’s) for top US Government officials
• 2016: TAG is selected for a 10-year blanket purchase agreement for armored vehicles to the U.S. Department of State
• 2017 TAG acquires German-based JPA Armoring & Fahrzeugbau Stadthagen GmBH, and opens new manufacturing plant expanding their presence in European Market
2017: TAG obtains VR9 certification from Beschassamt in Ulm, Germany, for the Nissan Patrol platform

“Over the last 25 years, we have seen The Armored Group grow from a company in a niche market, cash-in-transit vehicles, to a leading manufacturer of armored and non-armored vehicles around the world,” said Robert Pazderka, founder and president of The Armored Group. In the last five years especially, TAG has experienced impressive growth. We have a talented management, manufacturing and sales team in place that design, manufacture and deliver state-of-the-art vehicles based on clients operational needs.

Today, The Armored Group, LLC has grown to become one of the largest full-line commercial armored truck suppliers in the country, and continues to set the standard for customization, reliability and protection.

For more information, please visit www.armoredcars.com.

Tags: Armored Group
Posted in Mobility, Press Release | Comments Off on The Armored Group Celebrates 25th Anniversary Manfacturing State-of-the-Art Vehicles Designed to Keep Military, Law Enforcement and High-Profile Clients Safe

Supacat Exhibits at the NIDV Symposium and Exhibition in Rotterdam, 30 November 2017

Wednesday, November 29th, 2017

Supacat, the acclaimed UK designer and manufacturer of special forces vehicles, is exhibiting at the Netherlands Industries for Defence and Security (NIDV) Symposium and Exhibition on Thursday 30 November 2017. Having recently been awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise (International Trade, for Outstanding Short-Term Growth), the NIDV event forms part of a global marketing effort aimed to capitalise on recent export successes.

Supacat will be exhibiting their Light Reconnaissance Vehicle 400 (LRV 400) at the event. The LRV 400 provides a highly versatile tactical capability for special forces; it can be transported centrally inside a CH-47 Chinook fully equipped and loaded, making it immediately and rapidly deployable. Also, it has the unique feature of being convertible from 4×4 to 6×6 to provide a flexible alternative configuration that increases payload, capacity and range to meet different operational requirements. Supacat intends to offer the LRV into a number of vehicle procurement programmes in the region and the NIDV show is seen as an ideal platform to showcase the capabilities on offer. Supacat has teamed with Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Nederland B.V. to offer the LRV 400 into upcoming procurement programmes in the Netherlands. If an order is received, then RMMV will assemble Supacat vehicles in-country.

With over 1000 specialist, battle-proven vehicles in service across the globe, Supacat designed the LRV400 to fill the gap in the market for an agile off-road vehicle sized between its HMT 400 Series (GVW 7600kg) and quad bikes. It carries a crew of 3 or 4 supported by an operational payload of 1700kg with a GVW under 5000kg. It can achieve high speeds on or off road and can operate up to 800km from the point of insertion, offering special forces a true long-range capability.

Phil Applegarth, Head of Supacat said “we have been very successful in winning a number of major export orders for our special forces vehicles in recent years and we would like to capitalise on that success by offering our products more widely”. He added “there are a number of European procurement programmes emerging for vehicles in our capability space and we feel sure our battle-proven products will be highly attractive to the users. Supacat vehicles have already been sought out and purchased by some of the world’s finest units and we would like to add more nation’s armed forces to that list”.

www.supacat.com

Tags: Supacat
Posted in International, Mobility, Press Release | 6 Comments »