SIG SAUER - Never Settle

Archive for the ‘Mobility’ Category

Innovative Flight Solutions

Monday, September 6th, 2010

Innovative Flight Solutions (IFS) based in Virginia Beach, Virginia and is an independent developer of alternative flight solutions for use in both defense and commercial applications.

Under development for 8 years, IFS’ most recent achievement is the “Stalker” Powered Parafoil. The Stalker can be flown either manned or unmanned, from altitudes ranging 5 feet to 20,000 feet, and as slow as 17 knots or as fast at 68 knots. In addition to its airborne capabilities, in ground mode the Stalker has the capacity to transverse paved and unimproved roadways, grass fields, beach, desert and other challenging terrain. On a paved road the Stalker can reach speeds in excess of 70 mph.

The Stalker’s distinct capabilities are ideal for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) programs as well as use in border patrol, psychological operations (PSYOPS, now called Military Information Operations), and as a combat Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). With a standard flight time of 4.4 hours, and an optional extended fuel cell increasing its range to 19.8 hours, the Stalker can also be used for forward scouting ahead of convoys, delivery to remote terrains, medevac, sniper operations, etc. Due to its simplicity in maintenance, small storage area, and ease of flight any platoon leader or area commander can now have immediate and total control of an air asset.

Unlike fixed wing aircraft, the Stalker cannot be rolled, put into a dive, or stalled It can also handle IFR (no visibility) flight conditions. According to the FAA, the Stalker “… it [sic]one of the safest, stable and versatile aircraft in existence…” It can carry a useful payload of 747 pounds in manned flight and as a UAV has a useful payload of 1,047 pounds.

IFS works with the Aviation Sciences department at the University of Maryland to conduct its research and development while manufacturing is done by a leading defense contractor. Extensive testing has been completed in conjunction with Anti-Terrorism Force Protection exercises at eleven (11) military bases. All testing has been successful.

The Stalker will be on display at GSS Gear’s New Breed of Warrior being held September 10-11, 2010.

Stealth Flipfins ADS

Thursday, July 22nd, 2010

It has been over two years since we wrote about the Flipfin product from Omega Aquatics. Since then they have attracted the attention of military divers and swimmers and have developed the Stealth model specifically for this community. We were fortunate to check out this new model last week at the Warrior Expo – East. They still do the same job, propulsion in the water with the blade down but accommodate mobility when dry or moving through surf with the blades in the up position. The big difference is that this model was designed specifically for military use and features a large foot pocket for boots as well as being neutrally buoyant.

Offered in Black as well as Orange, the Stealth Flipfins are available from ADS or from www.flipfins.com.

Maritime Assault Suit System from Mustang Survival

Tuesday, July 20th, 2010

SOCOM is on the hunt for an updated version of their FR Maritime Assault Suit System worn by maritime commandos. In addition, this time they are also looking for a stripped down, lightweight version. Unveiled at SOFIC and displayed at last week’s Warrior Expo, the Mustang Survival MASS was a big hit. They have over 13,000 suits in service with the US military so Mustang Survival built upon their tradition of excellence. Yet, innovation is the key to this new design as they transition from a build to print company to a true solution provider.

Mustang Survival pulled out all of the stops for this project and it even allowed them to do accomplish an update to their sizing system. They found that they had ended up with a couple of different fit blocks based on their various suits. They completely revamped their sizing system and now fit is consistent across the entire line. Additionally, it more accurately fits the modern diver.

Who says function can’t look good? Features like mesh-backed drain holes for the pockets add not only function but the form enhances the sleek styling of the suit. Additionally, padding has been added to the shoulders, knees and along the spine.

The suit features their patented self adjusting neck seal that unlike others on the market, does not rely on Neoprene and can be opened when dry in order to facilitate venting. Additionally, the suit has an easy-adjust cuff.

The cummerbund conceals the relief zipper and except for a wee problem with zippers that everyone is experiencing, the Mustang Survival MASS and LMASS is Berry compliant.

While the standard MASS is packed with features, Mustang Survival attacked the task of building a no frills lightweight version of the suit that retained the fit and performance found in the standard variant. Weight was saved through such alterations as eliminating pocket flaps.

For more information visit www.MustangSurvival.com

BAE Systems Ultra Lightweight Warrior

Tuesday, June 15th, 2010

BAE Systems has developed a new equipment ensemble that sheds 35% of the weight burden carried by current Soldiers. ULW focuses on five key product areas including helmet, vest/soft body armor, armor plates, load carrying equipment, and an integrated power supply.

“What ULW provides to the armed forces is options,” said Sean Martin, Business Development Director for BAE Systems’ Personnel Protection Systems business. “ULW is a flexible, modular soldier equipment platform that can be modified a number of ways, and provides multiple mission-specific options. Its ergonomic design features new, lighter weight advanced materials, which provide greater comfort and needed mobility without sacrificing protection.”

In addition to lightweight versions of the Advanced Combat Helmet and body armor systems, ULW offers something that current equipment does not; the “Integrated Power System”, a wearable power supply that is conformal in shape to the armor plates. Additionally, the recharge system is compatible with both NATO standard 28 VDC slave cables as well as 110/120 VAC shore power.

The ULW system is on display at both Eurostatory and SOFIC. If you are in Tampa, be sure to drop by their booth #1515 to check out not only ULW but also BAE is unveiling the Sentinel off-road patrol vehicle.