Press Release | Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

GA-ASI Flies MQ-9B With Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PT6 E-Series Engine

Sunday, July 21st, 2024

SAN DIEGO – 19 July 2024 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) flew a company-owned MQ-9B SkyGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft on July 15, 2024, with a PT6 E-Series model turboprop engine supplied by Pratt & Whitney Canada. Representatives from GA-ASI and Pratt & Whitney witnessed the first flight of the PT6 engine on MQ-9B, which lasted 44 minutes and demonstrated exemplary handling and acceleration.

PT6E-66XT Engine (Photo courtesy of Pratt & Whitney Canada)

“We’re excited to see the PT6 engine on our MQ-9B aircraft,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “We’ve worked with Pratt & Whitney for years, specifically on our jet-powered Avenger®, and we’ve enjoyed a very productive partnership. The first flight marks an important milestone for MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian® customers and missions that require additional power. In addition, customers who choose the Pratt & Whitney engine will benefit from low sustainment costs from best-in-class Time Between Overhauls, as well as 50+ maintenance and overhaul facilities around the globe.”

The PT6 E-Series is a reliable and versatile turboprop engine family that delivers key performance enhancements applicable to future MQ-9B missions. PT6 delivers a 33 percent increase in power over MQ-9B’s current engine, with a highly mature dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Controller.

MQ-9B is GA-ASI’s next generation RPA, 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.

Deliveries of MQ-9B have begun for the United Kingdom, with contracts in place with Belgium, Canada, Taiwan, and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. The Japan Coast Guard is currently operating MQ-9B for maritime operations, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) selected MQ-9B for its Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft System Trial Operation Project. MQ-9B has also supported various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.

Posted in Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Flies MQ-9B With Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PT6 E-Series Engine

Brownells Donates $100,000 to Task Force Expedition

Sunday, July 21st, 2024

GRINNELL, IA – Task Force Expedition (TFE) is proud to announce Brownells as the Title Sponsor for TFE’s inaugural campaign to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. As a newly formed 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Task Force Expedition is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for military, first responder, and Second Amendment related nonprofits. Without Brownells generous support, the creation of Task Force Expedition would not have been possible.

From June 27 to July 8, TFE embarked on its inaugural expedition to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. This “once in a lifetime” adventure was documented by Prelude Films and will be turned into a feature-length documentary to be released this Fall. The expedition was funded entirely by industry sponsors and each sponsor was paired with a nonprofit organization to form a team. With their Title Sponsorship, Brownells teamed up with Special Operations Wounded Warrior, also known as SOWW. Other teams included the American Suppressor Association Foundation, Frontline Healing Foundation, Special Operations Care Fund, and a nonprofit in the UK that supports members of an elite British Special Forces unit.

The adventure itself wasn’t a competition, but the five teams competed to see who could raise the most funding through public donations By the end of the year, the funds raised by Task Force Expedition will be pooled together and equally distributed among selected nonprofits.

“At Brownells, we are committed to supporting those who protect our freedoms,” said Pete Brownell, Secretary of Task Force Expedition and Chairman of Brownells. “By partnering with Task Force Expedition, we are able to contribute to a cause that aligns with our values and supports our heroes. We are honored to be part of this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive outcomes it will generate.”

Knox Williams, President of Task Force Expedition and the American Suppressor Association Foundation added, “We are incredibly grateful to Pete and the team at Brownells for their unwavering support. Simply put, their donation made the Task Force Expedition possible. We have a tremendous opportunity to make a big impact on the lives of the people that rely on the services provided by these nonprofits. I look forward to working with Pete and his team to climb both the literal and the proverbial mountain ahead as we join forces for a greater good.”

For more information about Task Force Expedition and how you can support their cause, please visit taskforceexpedition.com.

Posted in Charity, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Brownells Donates $100,000 to Task Force Expedition

Silvus StreamCaster MANET Radios Added to Blue UAS Framework and Green UAS Cleared Components List

Saturday, July 20th, 2024

Providing Advanced & Secure MANET Radio Capabilities to UAS Developers for use in DoD Applications

· StreamCaster SC4200EP and StreamCaster LITE SL4200 designated by DIU as NDAA compliant and approved for use in conjunction with Blue UAS platforms

· StreamCaster LITE SL4200 is the first MANET radio included in the Green UAS Cleared Components List

· StreamCaster LITE SL4200 added to the Blue UAS Framework as part of AUVSI Green UAS Certification data sharing agreement with DIU

Los Angeles, California (July 18, 2024) – Silvus Technologies, Inc. (“Silvus”), a global leader in advanced wireless networking communication systems, today announced that the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has officially added Silvus’ StreamCaster SC4200EP and StreamCaster LITE SL4200 MANET radios to the Blue UAS Framework. After undergoing the Blue UAS program’s rigorous evaluation, this certification validates their compliance with DoD standards for cybersecurity, supply chain integrity and operational reliability. Inclusion on the Blue UAS Framework further demonstrates the SC4200EP and SL4200 interoperability and NDAA compliancy, designating them as approved for use in conjunction with Blue UAS platforms. This achievement exemplifies Silvus’ commitment to delivering cutting-edge, secure, and reliable C2 and mesh networked communications solutions for unmanned systems.

Additionally, the StreamCaster LITE SL4200 achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first Mobile Ad Hoc Network (MANET) radio to be included in the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Green UAS Cleared Components list. This inclusion not only highlights the advanced performance capabilities of the SL4200 but also reinforces its status as a trusted and secure component for unmanned systems operations.

The addition of the SL4200 to the Blue UAS Framework was facilitated through the AUVSI Green UAS Certification data sharing MOU agreement with DIU. Through partnering with AUVSI, Silvus supports the Green UAS program’s goal of advancing the integration of UAS into defense applications and building a strong and secure drone industrial base.

“The first successful integration of Green UAS certified components onto the Blue UAS Framework through our MOU with DIU is a significant milestone that underscores our commitment to bolstering the commercial drone industry’s alignment with secure drone standards, enhancing both security and innovation,” said Casie Ocaña, Director, Trusted Programs at AUVSI.

StreamCaster SC4200EP is a 2×2 MIMO software-defined radio, delivering best-in-class MANET performance and connectivity at the tactical edge. With up to 10 Watts of output power (20 Watts effective performance, thanks to TX Eigen Beamforming), up to 100 Mbps data throughput and single/dual band frequency options, the SC4200EP delivers high-fidelity video, voice and IP data communications with class-leading range and performance. With multiple form-factor options including handheld, Drop-In Module and OEM module, combined with a low SWaP profile, the SC4200EP is ideal for portable or embedded unmanned applications.

StreamCaster LITE SL4200 is a 2×2 MIMO software-defined radio that provides up to 1 Watt of output power (2 Watts effective performance, thanks to TX Eigen Beamforming), up to 20 Mbps data throughput across a variety of single band frequency options. Available in a ruggedized handheld or OEM module form-factors, its ultra-low profile and flexible interface options make it ideal for integration into unmanned platforms where size, weight and power are key.

At the heart of every StreamCaster MANET radio is Silvus’ proprietary MN-MIMO waveform, that creates a self-forming and adaptive mesh network – capable of linking hundreds of nodes with unmatched range, throughput, EW resiliency and scalability.

“We are thrilled to have our StreamCaster SC4200EP and StreamCaster LITE SL4200 MANET radios join the Blue UAS Framework, and for the SL4200 to be the first MANET radio added to the Green UAS Cleared Components List,” said Jimi Henderson, Vice President of Sales, Silvus Technologies. “Silvus continues to push the boundaries of mesh networking technology for mission critical applications. This achievement is a testament to our dedication in working across the industry to advance the capabilities of unmanned systems through robust, secure, and powerfully connected tactical communications solutions.”

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Blue UAS Framework program provides advanced capabilities to UAS developers and reduces risk for government customers, ensuring that only secure and trusted technologies are used in critical defense operations. For more information visit: www.diu.mil/blue-uas.

AUVSI’s Green UAS certification assesses and verifies that commercial drones and components meet the highest levels of cybersecurity and NDAA supply chain requirements through a security controls assessment and vulnerability and penetration testing. Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) Green UAS certification data is shared directly with DIU, facilitating the inclusion of certified drone component to be added to the Blue UAS Framework. For more information visit: www.auvsi.org/green-uas.

Learn more about the StreamCaster family of MANET radios on our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

Posted in Comms, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on Silvus StreamCaster MANET Radios Added to Blue UAS Framework and Green UAS Cleared Components List

Overwatch Group and PteroDynamics Conduct First Ever UK Flights of Transwing UAS

Friday, July 19th, 2024

Following the recent announcement of a strategic partnership between Overwatch Group and PteroDynamics, the companies have this week completed the first ever UK flights with the pioneering Transwing® unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Overwatch are a UK-based end-to-end design and manufacture company specialising in advanced unmanned system and munitions technologies, and PteroDynamics are innovators in vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft systems. Overwatch and PteroDynamics will be conducting the first flight demonstrations of the Transwing® capability to government and industry stakeholders at their site in the UK on 22nd and 23rd July.

Transwing® has been designed to overcome the challenges of carrying significant payloads whilst delivering the range required to provide enhanced operational effect. The unique dihedral folding wing system generates more surface area for greater lift and load carrying stability with less power, providing the ability to launch and land on small footprints regardless of the angle. The dual-use autonomous Transwing® series of variants also provides a range of innovative UAS capabilities designed to push the boundaries of operational flexibility and efficiency. Next week’s demonstrations will feature the smaller electric version of the Transwing® with its 6.8kg payload, 65 knot cruising speed and 60nm range. Its enhanced manoeuvrability in austere conditions and confined spaces, and impressive beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) capabilities brings greater opportunity for mission success in civilian and defence maritime, land and air operating environments.

Traditionally, critical items delivered by air for resupply are conducted using manned aviation assets. On the basis of ‘Think Big, Start Small and Scale at Pace”, the payloads selected for the Transwing® X-P4 and X-P5 variants have been driven by studies into critical resupply to ships. The study of 3500 sorties using helicopters found that 46% had a payload under 1Kg and over 90% were under 25Kg. The ability of Transwing® to carry payloads that land and launch on moving vessels and vehicles, coupled with a significantly reduced real estate footprint underscores its adaptability for at sea and land applications, where autonomous operation and payload delivery are becoming increasingly critical requirements.

Central to Overwatch’s strategy is to drive innovation and efficiency in UAS technology across their range of capabilities, with a keen focus on meeting evolving requirements. The Transwing® UAS enhances operational effect by seamlessly integrating reduced platform operating costs, quicker mission turnaround times, and improved safety protocols. The system can perform potentially dangerous, high-risk evolutions with maximum efficiency and minimal risk to personnel by removing human exposure to certain threats.

Drew Michael, CEO at Overwatch Group said, “We are extremely proud to have completed the first ever UK flights working in collaboration with PteroDynamics, with progress to introduce the Transwing® UAS to the UK accelerating rapidly since the recent announcement of our strategic partnership. After today’s successful training flights, excitement is building towards the Overwatch UK Transwing® flight demonstrations next week. It will be our first opportunity to deploy the Transwing® and for visitors to see its unique proprietary advantages over traditional VTOL platforms.”

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on Overwatch Group and PteroDynamics Conduct First Ever UK Flights of Transwing UAS

AXL Advanced Releases Flexcuff Retainer Kit

Friday, July 19th, 2024

The AXL Flex Cuff Retainer is a simplistic organizational placard that utilizes the dead space between the rear plate bag and back panel. The FCR can also be MOLLE’d anywhere to fit the user’s needs. The three (3) elastic columns can be used to retain Flex Cuffs, flares, breaching pens, TQs, or other similar-sized equipment. The bottom elastic is to provide additional retention or cable routing.

The Flex Cuff Retainer is best compatible with MOLLE-backed carriers, but will soon be available for the Spiritus Systems LV-119.

www.AXLadvanced.com

Posted in Load Carrying, Press Release | Comments Off on AXL Advanced Releases Flexcuff Retainer Kit

UF PRO Unveils Next-Generation P-40 Urban Gen.2 Tactical Pants

Friday, July 19th, 2024

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (18.7.2024)

UF PRO, a leading name in tactical apparel and part ofMehler Systems, is unveiling its latest addition to thetactical apparel lineup: the P-40 Urban Gen.2 TacticalPants. Designed for those who require the perfectbalance between casual looks in and maintainingfunctionality, these pants are a seamless fusion of urban camouflage and functional design.

The P-40 Urban Gen.2 Tactical Pants build upon thesuccess of their predecessor by featuring a significantlylighter construction without compromising durability. Crafted from PolyCo Ripstop and schoeller®-dynamicstretch materials, they offer superior flexibility andcomfort. Whether navigating urban landscapes orrugged terrain, these pants enable unrestrictedmovement, ensuring wearers can perform at their peakduring dynamic operations.

Equipped with reinforced belt loops, these pants are compatible with underbelts and battle belts. Furthermore, they are Waist/Flex Belt ready whichbrings a customisable fit that adapts to the wearer’sbody shape. The Waist/Flex System enhances comfortand stability, crucial for professionals requiring gear thatwithstands active duty demands while facilitating fluidmovements.

The P-40 Urban Gen.2 Pants are compatible with UF PRO’s 3D knee pads for discreet and reliable impact resistance. The design securely holds knee protection in place without constant adjustment, providing steadfast support during kneeling, crouching, or rapid movements. Designed for operational efficiency, these pants includeTuck-Lock pockets and strategically positioned compartments for secure storage. The V-shaped pocket design and stretchy lining ensure essential gear remains safely stored and easily accessible, maintaining a streamlined profile ideal for tactical environments.

For more details on UF PRO’s newest tactical gear, visitufpro.com. The P-40 Urban Gen.2 Tactical Pants will be available starting next week.

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, Press Release | Comments Off on UF PRO Unveils Next-Generation P-40 Urban Gen.2 Tactical Pants

Revolutionizing Team Connectivity – Savox Launches New, Game-Changing Wireless Team Communication System, Savox Pack-COM

Thursday, July 18th, 2024

Savox Communications, the world-renowned leader in providing mission-critical hearing protection and communication solutions, is proud to announce the launch of the Savox Pack-COM. This revolutionary wireless team communication system is designed to enhance team efficiency, safety and security with unprecedented sound quality, ultralow latency, and full duplex capability.

Engineered to meet the rigorous demands of tactical environments, the Savox Pack-COM ensures seamless, secure, and reliable communication, empowering teams to perform at their best. It significantly improves team coordination, responsiveness, and situational awareness of whole the team.

The Savox Pack-COM system features a portable base station that creates a secure communication bubble, allowing teams to move freely and work securely. Utilizing AES-256 encryption, the Savox Pack-COM guarantees the confidentiality and security of all communications, protecting sensitive information in real-time. A robust, full-duplex connection within a 400-meter LOS (Line Of Sight) range of the portable base station ensures effective communication even in the most challenging environments.

Additionally, the Savox Pack-COM system also includes the Savox TRICS series tactical radio and intercom control system, offering the most advanced team communication solution to enhance your team’s operational capabilities in demanding conditions.

Providing crystal-clear communications, the Savox Pack-COM wireless team communication system reduces misunderstandings and enhances operational efficiency through its market-leading sound quality. It integrates effortlessly with existing radio infrastructure by connecting up to two external radios. This feature enhances versatility and interoperability, catering to your team’s specific requirements.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Savox Pack-COM, a revolutionary innovation in wireless team communication systems. This system represents a significant leap forward in ensuring our customers experiencing unmatched sound quality, security, and reliability in their communications. At Savox, we are dedicated to empowering our clients with cutting-edge solutions, and the Pack-COM is a testament to that commitment. We are excited to see the positive impact it will have on teams worldwide.” says Janne Pöllänen, SVP Sales and Business development.

The Savox Pack-COM wireless team communication system ensures tactical teams have the tools needed to excel in every operation, offering an unparalleled combination of security, clarity, and reliability. At Savox, we empower the best to do their best.

savox.com

Posted in Comms, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Revolutionizing Team Connectivity – Savox Launches New, Game-Changing Wireless Team Communication System, Savox Pack-COM

Traser Swiss H3 Watches is Proud to Serve

Thursday, July 18th, 2024

Rescue forces, security agencies, and special units: Since its inception, traser swiss H3 watches have stood firmly by the side of thousands of first responders worldwide. Thanks to their robust construction, functional design, and energy-independent self-powered illumination technology trigalight, these timepieces are designed for reliability in case of emergency. With their latest “Proud to Serve” campaign, the Swiss watch pioneer now highlights three special collaborations with first response teams.

In 1989, the invention of the world’s first self-illuminated wristwatch led to the founding of traser swiss H3 watches. “The Original,” as the model is also known, was developed for, and supplied to the US Army, and met the strict MIL-W-46374F specifications. Since then, the Bern-based watch brand has equipped thousands of emergency responders worldwide with their highly functional timepieces, including the Swiss Air Force.

Now, traser presents three additional collaborations that seamlessly align with the brand’s mission to support professional users with a durable and capable timepiece.

“Our current ‘Proud to Serve’ campaign focuses on everyday heroes. And we wanted to do this with the utmost authenticity possible. Therefore, we deliberately produced the content, which can be found on our social media channels among other places, with emergency responders from the Swiss Society of Emergency and Rescue Medicine, the Basel Fire Department, and the long-serving Polish elite soldier Naval, instead of actors. We also share close partnerships with all of them,” explains Christian Leiggener, Head of traser.

Partnership with SSERM: Perfect Timing in Case of Emergency

Whether on the way to the scene of an accident, during initial treatment or in hospital care: In a medical emergency, a few moments often decide between life and death. As part of a three-year collaboration, traser is now equipping the Swiss Society of Emergency and Rescue Medicine with their tool watches and providing financial support to the association. Additionally, the approximately 470 members and staff of SSERM benefit from special conditions.

“In life-threatening situations, trained, intuitive actions are crucial. My traser watch supports this perfectly: It allows me to intuitively read the time even in the dark. This combination can make a decisive difference,” says Prof. Aristomenis Exadaktylos, emergency physician and former President of the Swiss Society of Emergency and Rescue Medicine, about his traser P99 T Tactical.

Elite Soldier Pawe? “Naval” Mate?czuk: Precision and Orientation on Every Mission

Former Polish elite soldier Pawe? “Naval” Mate?czuk and traser share a long-standing collaboration. His service took Naval to Lebanon, where he cleared the Lebanese-Israeli border area of mines as part of the UNIFIL mission. He then completed a total of nine military missions in Iraq and Afghanistan as a member of the GROM special unit, where he and his unit also participated in counter-terrorism efforts. In countless incidents, Naval has experienced firsthand how crucial full concentration, absolute precision, and constant orientation are for the success of a mission.

“A mission fails as soon as you lose orientation and your way. The traser P68 Pathfinder

Baden Fire Department: Despite Adverse Visibility Conditions

Dense smoke, operations in darkness or at night, and a race against time: Firefighting or responding to natural disasters tests firefighters physically and mentally every day. Not only the responders but also their equipment must withstand shocks, extreme temperatures, and water. The timepieces that traser provides to the Baden Fire Department (Switzerland) meet these exact requirements. All traser watches, thanks to sapphire crystals and high water resistance, possess immense durability. Especially under difficult visibility conditions, trigalight self-illumination elements guarantee consistent readability of the time.

“Just as we depend on the support of our comrades in case of emergency, we must also be able to uncompromisingly rely on our equipment. With my traser P67 Officer Pro, I don’t lose orientation even in exceptional situations,” states Alexander Braun of the Baden Fire Department.

An overview of the aforementioned models below: