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Extensive Follow-Up Procurement of IdZ-ES: Rheinmetall Receives Largest Framework Contract to Date for the Digitisation of Bundeswehr Infantry Forces – Soldier-Systems Worth Over €3bn

Friday, February 7th, 2025

Extensive follow-up procurement of IdZ-ES: Rheinmetall receives largest framework contract to date for the digitisation of Bundeswehr infantry forces – soldier-systems worth over €3bn

The Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) has signed a framework contract with Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH for the follow-on procurement of soldier-systems ‘Infantry Soldier of the Future – Enhanced System’ (IdZ-ES). The framework contract, with a maximum gross volume of €3.1bn, will run until the end of 2030. Overall, the Bundeswehr can thus initiate the proportional regeneration as well as the manufacturing and delivery of up to 368 IdZ-ES platoon systems and various options for the procurement of additional components and services. A platoon is a military sub-unit. 

The contract involves, firstly, upgrading the 68 IdZ-ES platoon systems currently in use within the Bundeswehr to a digital standard and, secondly, the firm order of a further 24 platoon systems including extensive peripherals. The firm order, worth around €417m gross, will be booked in the first quarter of 2025. 

Signed on 6 February 2025, the contract is the largest ever for both Rheinmetall and the BAAINBw for the procurement of soldier-systems. These play an increasingly important role as a networked element of combat operations on the digital battlefield of the future. 

A platoon system mainly comprises 34 individual soldier-systems and a platoon equipment of peripheral components, consisting of advanced IT-equipment, optics, optronics, as well as military clothing, protection and carrying equipment. As the general contractor, Rheinmetall is responsible for the system and is coordinating the performance of more than 30 subcontractors.

With the framework contract, the Bundeswehr is procuring a modernised design of the IdZ-ES, based on the IdZ-ES VJTF 2023 soldier-system of the Mechanised Infantry system that is already in use. The new ‘VJTF 2023 obsolescence-adjusted’ design status eliminates all technically obsolete components and implements communication and data exchange capabilities with the Boxer armoured transport vehicle and Puma infantry fighting vehicle platforms, as well as preparing it for the airborne platform. The revised basic hardware of the soldier-systems is also designed to connect to the ‘Digitisation of Land-Based Operations’ (D-LBO) information and communication network.

Strike Industries Releases the XA Handguard for SIG SAUER CROSS

Friday, February 7th, 2025

Strike Industries has just released the X-Axis Handguard for the SIG Cross bolt action rifle. In pure Strike fashion, the Strike XA is a sleek and extremely functional handguard that functions as a direct OEM replacement – it even reuses the original screws from SIG’s handguard.

With a 2 piece design, the top picatinny rail of the receiver no longer needs to be removed in order to remove the handguard. This also enables the user to be able to maintain their rifle without removing their optic which saves the need for re-zeroing as often.

All around the handguard M-LOK slots can be found at the 3, 6, 9, 10, and 2 o’clock positions. There 4 steel QD sling points in total on the handguard. The two QD points closest to the receiver are anti-rotational. At the front of the handguard there is a picatinny front bridge for additional accessories such as a laser, IR, or thermal device.

The key feature of the Strike XA Handguard is its built-in ARCA rail at the 6 o’clock position which spans the entire length of the handguard. Avid lightweight backpacker hunters can now have a SIG Cross rifle that is not only stowable, ergonomic, but also ready to be mounted onto a tripod at a moment’s notice.

Even without a tripod, the wider flat surface area on the bottom of the handguard makes for an even more easily stabilized shooting experience when mounted on top of tables or other objects.

The Strike XA Handguard serves to elevate aesthetics and increase functional performance with users’ SIG CROSS rifles. Now available through authorized dealers and Strike Industries’ official website. For more information, visit www.strikeindustries.com or contact the Strike Team at mkt@strikeindustries.com.

Nevada Department of Public Safety – Highway Patrol Division Selects KGM Suppressors R556A2 for Patrol Rifles

Friday, February 7th, 2025

For Immediate Release – February 6, 2025 – KGM Suppressors is proud to announce that the Nevada Department of Public Safety – Highway Patrol Division has selected the KGM R556A2 suppressor for deployment across its law enforcement divisions. This selection underscores KGM’s commitment to providing superior sound suppression, recoil mitigation, and operational efficiency to law enforcement professionals. The R556A2 was chosen after extensive evaluation and are currently being fielded across the state.

 

“We are honored to support the Nevada Highway Patrol by equipping their rifles with our suppressors,” said Bill Bracken, Director of Government Business Development at KGM Technologies. “The R556A2 provides a great mix of performance enhancements through sound, flash, and recoil reduction, with minimal impact to the host rifle. The use of suppressors on duty rifles is being recognized as a safety and performance enhancing tool to ensure officers can accomplish their mission safely and effectively.”

KGM Suppressors is a leading provider of advanced firearm suppressors for military, law enforcement, and civilian applications. Based in Peachtree Corners, Georgia, KGM Suppressors is committed to delivering superior performance, durability, and reliability in every product. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, KGM Suppressors continues to lead the way in the evolution of firearm suppressor technology. For more information, visit www.kgm-tech.com.

Multi-Billion-Euro Contract: Rheinmetall Successful with TaWAN LBO for the Bundeswehr – Digitalisation of the Armed Forces Is Picking Up Speed

Thursday, February 6th, 2025

Rheinmetall has been awarded a contract in another important large-scale project for the Bundeswehr in the field of digitalisation. As the prime contractor, Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH will be responsible for setting up an integrated communication network, the so-called ‘Tactical Wide Area Network for Land Based Operations’ (TaWAN LBO). The volume of the awarded framework-contract for a deployable, platform-based communication/directional radio management system is worth several billion Euro.

The framework-contract for the procurement of TaWAN LBO has a term of 10 years and was signed by representatives of the Federal Office for the Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH.

At the same time, an initial order worth €1.88bn gross was placed under the framework-contract to equip a division of the Bundeswehr. Delivery of this communications network will take place between the end of 2026 and the end of 2029.

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “We are thankful for the great trust that the Bundeswehr is placing in us regarding its ambitious digitalization efforts. Now that the Bundeswehr will be receiving TaWAN LBO and D-LBO from a single source, the conditions for a synchronized coordination concerning the introduction of both systems are given. It is our ambition to provide the Bundeswehr with a seamless and reliable communication network within the given timeframe – one which can be considered a flagship of digitalisation in Germany”.

The core function of TaWAN LBO is to provide an open transport network for Federated Mission Networking (FMN) based on Protected Core Network (PCN) to connect the forward tactical D-LBO networks to the rear-echelon core network CIR. Following the contracts awarded at the end of 2024 as part of the Bundeswehr’s Digitalised Land-Based Operations (D-LBO) programme, TaWAN LBO will be a further milestone for the end-to-end command capabilities of the armed forces. In connection with D-LBO, the TaWAN LBO network is to ensure connectivity deep into the rear area at high data rates.

As part of the TaWAN LBO project, Rheinmetall is also supplying protected 8×8 HX trucks from Rheinmetall MAN, which serve as carrier vehicles for the large directional radio systems and are equipped with mobile high extendable antenna masts.

One of the vehicles will hold the mast system, another will carry the 20-foot functional container with workstations, servers and other equipment. Rheinmetall MAN will be delivering a total of 102 vehicles.

Other vehicle platforms are used in conjunction with smaller mobile extendable antenna masts (small directional radio system). A software-based directional radio management system is part of the overall solution which will ensure the functionality of the directional radio system, and can be used to plan and execute operations.

KRDA Launches Capital Campaign to Fund Its Mission to Promote, Protect Fort Knox

Thursday, February 6th, 2025

ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. – The Knox Regional Development Alliance (KRDA) launched its capital campaign to fund the organization through 2030 during its recent annual meeting of investors. The non-profit, funded through private and public sector investments, is the only organization dedicated to promoting and protecting Fort Knox and growing the defense sector economy in the region.

Luke Schmidt, a Hardin County native and CEO of L.B. Schmidt and Associates, is co-chairing the KRDA capital campaign with Marilyn Ford, KRDA’s outgoing board chair and City President of Kentucky’s Heartland Region for WesBanco. During the meeting, Schmidt encouraged the assembled investors to continue their support of KRDA.

According to Schmidt, the campaign’s goal is to secure $2.25 million in pledges to fund five years of operations beginning in 2026. Schmidt spoke of the importance of Fort Knox and having an organization like KRDA, proactively working to protect its tremendous impact on our regional economy.

“For more than a century, Fort Knox has fueled this region’s economy and helped us weather global economic downturns better than most,” Schmidt said. “Fort Knox’s $1.3 billion in annual payroll and $5.6 billion in annual economic impact are second to none in this region. It is imperative we do all we can as a community to promote it, protect it and grow defense-related business in the region. KRDA has been doing that now for almost a decade with great success.”

Schmidt pointed to several indicators of success since KRDA was established – most notably that Fort Knox’s annual payroll and annual economic impact have more than doubled.

In addition, the post has gained several new missions, including V Corps Headquarters, the Command Assessment Program (CAP), and a new three-star headquarters in Recruiting Command. These three missions alone have brought nearly 1,000 new jobs.

“The KRDA team always credits the leadership of Fort Knox and its dedicated workforce for putting the installation in a position to gain these missions, as they should. But we also know that KRDA’s advocacy, our community’s support, and the region’s overall quality of place make Fort Knox more competitive when these opportunities arise,” said Schmidt. “Competition for new missions is high and KRDA helps make sure we do all we can as a community to position the installation for continued growth.”

KRDA CEO retired Colonel Lance O’Bryan knows first-hand the importance of community support.  In his last assignment before retirement, O’Bryan was the Fort Knox Garrison Commander. This assignment is comparable to that of a mayor or city manager.

“This community helps set the installation apart from others,” O’Bryan said. “Whether it’s limiting encroachment, providing career opportunities to military spouses and transitioning service members, or fostering partnerships that are mutually beneficial to the community and the installation, we want to be the very best.”

O’Bryan also spoke about the potential for another round of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) or mission changes associated with the new federal administration’s government efficiency efforts. 

“Because of the installation’s capacity, energy resilience and security, we consider Fort Knox well-suited for growth,” said O’Bryan. “But it’s imperative we have the resources in place to mount a strong advocacy effort in the event the federal government decides to move in this direction. We also regularly share the Fort Knox story with stakeholders and decisionmakers at all levels of government to help keep Fort Knox top of mind. “

Schmidt called KRDA the go-to community organization for all things Fort Knox, emphasizing that its operations and grassroots funding model serves as a national example for defense community organizations. He also commended KRDA’s strong fiscal oversight.

“I have served on several boards and can honestly say I have never seen a level of financial stewardship like that of KRDA. They run a lean operation and it’s tremendous what they have accomplished,” said Schmidt. “I had the privilege of chairing their last capital campaign and am proud to co-chair this campaign with Marilyn.”

During the meeting, O’Bryan also thanked the current board and investors for their support. 

“Thanks to our investors, we are able to dedicate ourselves fully to our mission each and every day,” he said.

In closing the annual meeting, Marilyn Ford explained why Wesbanco supports KRDA.

“Investing in KRDA is an investment in the future of our community,” said Ford. “Their efforts ensure that Fort Knox remains a strong economic engine for our region, creating jobs and driving growth. The return on investment is clear—supporting KRDA means supporting economic stability and opportunity for businesses and families alike.”

To learn more about KRDA, their mission, and how to participate in the capital campaign, visit growknox.org.

MRIGlobal Awarded GSA OASIS+ Contract Provides Government Customers with Vetted Contractor Access

Thursday, February 6th, 2025

Kansas City, Mo.: (Feb. 5, 2025) – MRIGlobal is pleased to announce its award of the General Services Administration (GSA) One Acquisition Solution for Integrated Services Plus (OASIS+) Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract under the Research & Development domain. With more than 80 years of experience supporting the United States government, MRIGlobal is well-positioned to continue delivering integrated and multi-disciplinary solutions in defense, health surveillance, and health diagnostics.

“For more than eight decades, our scientific researchers and engineers have created breakthroughs to meet the needs of our customers and contribute to national security. Our expertise in global health surveillance, disease diagnostics, chemical and biological threat detection, and emerging infectious disease response has served as a critical asset to the United States government,” said Dr. Ian. M. Colrain, President & CEO, MRIGlobal. “This GSA OASIS+ contract award ensures that we will continue providing innovative solutions to these and other important challenges, and we are now able to do so more efficiently and effectively than ever.”

Administered by the GSA, OASIS+ is a government-wide, multi-award, IDIQ contract vehicle that supports federal agencies’ procurement requirements for services-based solutions. This contract is available for use by all Federal agencies. The contract provides Federal agencies with vetted, highly qualified contractors; a flexible, expandable domain-based structure; a 10-year order period; no contract dollar ceiling and no cap on awards, and price evaluation at the contract level. Requirements can be included that are performed in CONUS and/or OCONUS locations, for complex commercial or non-commercial services, and for any contract type.

“Having been vetted by the GSA as a highly qualified contractor means that we’ve demonstrated our capabilities and experience in serving our government customers,” said Michelle Rodrigues, Vice President, Government Business Development. “Receiving this OASIS+ award contract is recognition of the quality of scientific and engineering research our teams have performed for those customers, and the positive impact our solutions have had on society.”

Administered by the General Services Administration (GSA), OASIS+ is a government-wide, multiple award, IDIQ contract vehicle that allows government customers to acquire a range of non-IT services from government vendors. For easy access to MRIGlobal’s OASIS+ contract vehicle, including awarded CLINS, visit www.mriglobal.org/contract-vehicles.

Lindnerhof Kicks Off 2025 with New Tactical Gear

Wednesday, February 5th, 2025

LENGGRIES, GERMANY (03.02.2025)

Lindnerhof announces its first product launch of 2025, featuring a new range of tactical innovations designed to enhance performance and reliability in the most demanding operational environments. This release highlights Lindnerhof’s commitment to providing professionals with high-performance gear for mission success.

The new product lineup includes the 2L Hydration Pouch, a durable and compact solution for maintaining hydration during missions. Made from Cordura® fabric, the pouch integrates seamlessly with existing loadouts and features a top outlet for the drinking tube and a drain port to prevent waterlogging. The MOLLE/PALS webbing allows for easy attachment to plate carriers or backpacks, offering versatile storage options for hydration bladders.

Lindnerhof also introduces the Tourniquet Pouch (MX128), a secure, easily accessible storage solution for life-saving tourniquets. Crafted from tough, lightweight materials, the pouch is designed for rapid deployment and reliable attachment to MOLLE/PALS systems. It ensures that tourniquets remain firmly in place under challenging conditions, ready for quick use when every second counts.

To complement this, the Tourniquet Adapter (LT241) enhances the flexibility of tactical setups by providing a fast and secure method for attaching a tourniquet to a variety of configurations. Whether attached to a plate carrier or rig, the adapter ensures immediate access to critical gear during high-pressure situations.

The launch also includes the Hanger Double Magazine Pouch Horizontal (MX103), a versatile pouch designed to accommodate various magazine sizes, from slim AR15 mags to bulkier HK417 mags. Featuring elasticized sides and a removable Alpha Tab forenhanced grip, the pouch allows for quick access and easy integration into loadouts, expanding storage options when combined with other hook-and-loop pouches.

For organising smaller essentials, the Multi-Pouch Small Horizontal (PA566) offers a compact solution thatensures critical tools and accessories are readily accessible. Ideal for securing radios, multitools, or med kits, this pouch is designed for efficiency in fast-paced operations.

The Flashlight Pouch (PA248) provides secure storagefor a flashlight while ensuring it is always within reach when needed. Designed for use in low-light conditions or scenarios requiring precise visibility, this pouch features reliable closure systems for secure storage and rapid access.

Finally, the Universal Grenade Pouch (PA095/II) offers a durable, customisable solution for storing grenades while ensuring quick access for rapid deployment. Available in two sizes to accommodate different grenade diameters, the pouch features adjustable hook-and-loops surfaces and a robust buckle for secure closure, even when wearing gloves.

Lindnerhof’s first product launch of 2025 emphasises the brand’s commitment to providing innovative solutionsthat enhance operational efficiency, safety, and mission success. Each product is designed to meet the highest standards of functionality, ensuring it withstands the rigorous demands of modern tactical operations.

For more information on Lindnerhof’s latest productinnovations, please visit Lindnerhof’s website.

HRH The Princess Royal Opens New UK Thermal Imaging Optics Facility for Defence Sector and Presents King’s Award for Innovation to Thermoteknix

Wednesday, February 5th, 2025

Cambridge, UK, 04 February 2025.  

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal today opened a new electro-optics facility at Thermoteknix in Cambridge, and presented the company with the King’s Award for Enterprise trophy for Innovation, in recognition of the company’s groundbreaking development in thermal imaging.

Employing 75 people, Thermoteknix was established in 1982 by Managing Director DrRichard Salisbury. The company manufactures a wide range of industrial and surveillance infrared based systems. With more than 40 years of milestones and groundbreaking innovation, the company made history in 2009 when its thermal imaging cameras were used by NASA on its successful LCROSS moon landing mission which identified the presence of lunar sub-surface water.

Thermoteknix has been the recipient of five such prestigious Queen’s and King’s Awards in recognition of its innovation and sales success in overseas trade, helping to promote the United Kingdom’s status as a world leader in design, manufacturing and customer success.

The Princess Royal toured Thermoteknix’ headquarters in Cambridge, during which Her Royal Highness was given demonstrations of the company’s thermal imaging products, including cameras and systems which reduce industrial Carbon emissions, and fused night vision goggles which deliver UK forces with superior situational awareness and Augmented Reality capabilities.

The Princess Royal, attended by Mrs. Julie Spence, Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridge, greeted Thermoteknix employees from each department, and formally opened the new electro-optics facility and presented The King’s Award for Enterprise trophy to Managing Director, Dr Richard Salisbury.

The Princess Royal then unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark her visit.

The new electro-optics facility will support the company’s growth and increased demand for its thermal imaging products by forces around the world.

Dr Salisbury commented: “It was an absolute privilege to host Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at our headquarters in Cambridge, and to receive the King’s Award for Enterprise trophy form her. We are delighted to have had the opportunity to present our exceptional staff to Her Majesty. This Award is a testimony to their skills, dedication and commitment. The visit marks a crowning moment for Thermoteknix as we celebrate and prepare for the year ahead with new product launches and expansion of our work force.”

“The King’s Awards are one of the UK’s most prestigious awards, and to have had the pleasure of a visit from The Princess Royal for its presentation is a massive honour which will be a lifelong memory for every one of our team at Thermoteknix.”

For more information on Thermoteknix Systems Ltd., visit www.thermoteknix.com.