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Liteye Systems Launches: Liteye SHIELD The Next Generation of Counter UAS Defense

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021

The Liteye SHIELD Autonomous Kill Chain with dispersed Command and Control provides robust state of the art protection from small UAS, at Machine Speed.


Photo: The Liteye SHIELD Autonomous Kill Chain payload is a customizable Multi-Mission solution

Centennial, Colorado (February 23, 2021) – Liteye Systems, Inc., a US leader in Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems, announces Liteye SHIELD, the next level in Multi-Mission, Multi-Domain systems and a true advancement in Counter UAS Defense.

Liteye SHIELD incorporates Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning techniques with a newly designed SPYGLASS™ 3D radar, EO and IR tracking to increase the speed and confidence of the system.   The SHIELD Command and Control further ensures the full Detect, Track, ID Kill Chain is automated and conducted at machine speed.  SHIELD is the next generation, cutting-edge technology required to defend against the rapid technology maturation and proliferation of small UAS threats worldwide.

“Liteye and our partners are able to present leading edge capability in advanced 3D radars, HD Cameras, and the only US company to provide both narrow band and directional wide band electronic attack for this threat” said Kenneth Allen Geyer, CEO Liteye Systems.  “SHIELD operates as a self-contained system or links multiple SHIELD payloads, but more importantly, it seamlessly integrates into higher-level networks, can cue kinetic and non-kinetic effectors, and can be physically integrated into practically any platform.  I’m proud of what Liteye and our teammates have achieved and confident we can continue to protect US interests around the world.”

Manufacturing and integration of SHIELD critical components are based at Liteye and partner locations in the United States.  Success over the last five years with Liteye’s deployed combat proven Anti-UAS Defense System (AUDS), has earned Liteye unmatched technical experience in this market.  It is this experience that has led to the development of Liteye SHIELD primarily for the C-UAS mission, but significant for additional surveillance and electronic attack missions.  From first combat deployment in Iraq 2016 to today with systems deployed worldwide Liteye’s continually adding to our repertoire of experience with the rapidly evolving threat.

“Liteye has been protecting US Forces, our Allies and Critical Infrastructure for years, and we’ve listened closely to what the US DoD deems important,” said Ryan Hurt, Vice President of Business Development.  “Constructing an autonomous kill chain with artificial intelligence and machine learning for detect, track and identification, so decisions can be made at machine speed, was the starting point for design of this new system. Seamless integration with existing Networks ensures Operators have access to the sensors and effectors they need, when they need them, and lessens the manpower footprint.  This is next generation multi-mission, multi-domain performance.”   

Key performance characteristics of SHIELD are:

Fully Autonomous Kill Chain:  The Autonomous Kill Chain affords machine speed detect, track, identification and classification allowing an Operator to monitor the environment, manage multiple systems and only step in for final Positive ID and trigger pull to fulfill the mission. Key components: Spyglass 3D Radar for Detect & Track, AI based RF Detect, AI Target Prioritization, and Automated Video Track.

Dispersed, Networked Command and Control:  SHIELD utilizes a Man-ON-the-Loop local C2, and is networked, requiring low manpower to operate any system from any console with a distributed common operation picture.  The local C2 provides multi-sensor resource management & Sensor Fusion to an intuitive operating system with Machine Learning principles and 3D targeting for cueing networked effectors.

Multi Domain/Multi Mission with OEM Service and Support:

Multi-Domain – Operation across Air, Ground, Surface, and Radio Frequency (RF) Spectrum, SHIELD effectively provides multi-domain critical infrastructure protection.

Multi-Mission – SHIELD provides platform agnostic (mobile, transportable, fixed/semi-fixed) mission essential service for: Integrated air and ground base defense, convoy protection, offensive electronic attack, wildland fires, space launch protection, event security and more. 

OEM Service and Support – Liteye’s mature Service and Support program is operational today.  Qualified and Certified by Liteye, our OEM Service and Support ensures the systems and Operators stay proficient and fully mission capable.

Liteye Systems, Inc, is a world leader in Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS), radar and surveillance sensor packages, ruggedized thermal cameras, and helmet mounted displays with over $100M in services and products provided to the US Government. 

For More Information on Liteye SHIELD visit: Liteye.com/shield

Western Shelter Partners with Johnson Outdoors Gear / Eureka! Expeditionary Systems

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021

Western Shelter, a global leader in the defense and first responder markets, is excited to announce their partnership with Johnson Outdoors Gear (JOG) / Eureka! Expeditionary Systems (EES). This wonderful opportunity allows growth for both organizations, as Western Shelter will distribute and sell Eureka! Branded RDS shelter systems for the Defense, First Responder, and Commercial industry.

“This is a great partnership”, noted Bryan Hunt, Director of Sales at Western Shelter.  “We believe in offering multiple shelter platforms to our customers. Adding theEureka! RDS shelter will increase our offerings and expand our reach into several markets.”

“Both of these companies have a strong commitment to customer service, manufacturing excellence and a long history supplying the best gear to the defense, First Responder, relief and commercial markets.,” said Jim Reyen, Business Director for Johnson Outdoors Gear. “I am excited about the growth that will come from this venture.”

These shelters are designed to provide multiple solutions for Command Posts, Command and Control Centers, and Tactical Operation Centers. They’ve also played a critical role in creating small treatment centers to complex field hospitals, base camps and sleeping facilities.

Western Shelter Contacts:

Caleb Johnson
Defense Sales Manager I Army-Air Force
P: 530-646-5527
E: cjohnson@westernshelter.com

Jason Mapel
Defense Sales Manager I Marines-Navy-Coast Guard
P:858-733-0900
E: jmapel@westernshelter.com

Johnson Outdoors Gear Contact:

Jerry Paris, CSM, USA (Ret.)
Military Senior Sales Representative
P: 256-453-5671
E: jerry.paris@johnsonoutdoors.com

Paramount Group Launches Long Range Swarming UAV System

Monday, February 22nd, 2021

Long Range, Precision Strike and Swarming UAV System ‘N-Raven’ Debuts at IDEX 2021

Abu Dhabi, 22nd of February 2021. In a move to bolster armed forces’ tactical situational awareness and precision strike capabilities while minimising personnel risk and collateral damage, Paramount Advanced Technologies (PAT), subsidiary to Paramount Group, the global aerospace and technology company, has announced the launch of its long-range, precision strike and cost-effective swarming UAV system, N-Raven.

The N-Raven family of autonomous, multi-mission aerial vehicles featuring next generation ‘swarm’ technologies to accomplish numerous missions with pinpoint precision, debuted at the 2021 International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2021) held in Abu Dhabi.

The N-Raven family has been designed for technology transfer and portable manufacture from within partner countries with both unrivaled accuracy and affordability in mind. In doing so, the N-Raven addresses a myriad of mission requirements, including ‘future warfighter engagements’ where intelligent ‘swarming technologies’ combined with multiple munition loitering and attack operations have been proven to ensure mission survivability.

With a modular system allowing for flexible mission planning, operational units can launch the versatile N-Raven UAV from multiple land-based, naval, and airborne platforms. Formation level commanders can further benefit from the advantage of the N-Raven’s precision strike capabilities against high-value targets, both static and moving, located deep within enemy territory, by utilising a ‘swarm’ of loitering munitions.

The 41 kg N-Raven operates with a covert, low signature in contested environments offering a cruise speed of approximately 180 km/hr and a loitering endurance time of approximately two hours. N-Raven swarm loitering munitions offer a variety of sensors with each being capable of carrying a 10 – 15 kg payloads up to a range of 250 km.

The system provides detection, identification, location, and reportage (DILR) against various targets. The N-Raven Series can be critical to the successful execution of modern fire missions, with swarm capabilities offering support for Multi-Domain Operations (MDO). As the platform’s onboard sensors and communication technologies continue to improve, they can serve as significant force multipliers for strategic and tactical assignments.

Equivalent to positioning multiple personnel on the ground in often austere, high-risk environments, the N-Raven is designed to saturate an area with Electro-Optical/Infra-Red (EO/IR), Semi-Active Laser sensor-driven target identification and tracking technologies to provide a rapid, data-rich picture of activity. This reduces threats to personnel safety while enhancing human end-user responsiveness in radically changing engagement scenarios.

A field simulator is optionally available which connects to the system’s control unit, allowing the N-Raven crew to rehearse each mission before launch. The UAV’s recording capabilities allow for a full debrief and ensure a positive learning curve for the end-user’s personnel, while reducing costs and minimizing risks in operator training.

Paramount Advanced Technologies has developed the N-Raven as a robust yet cost-effective technology solution, utilising proven commercial components and experience gained from the company’s long legacy in the development of UAV systems, including however not limited to the Meteorite.

Lee Connelly, CEO of Paramount Advanced technologies, stated, “We continue to research, design and innovate new technologies that remove military personnel from the front lines, minimise collateral damage and exposure of friendly forces, at the same time providing surveillance and engagement support, and helping armed forces around the world garner greater intelligence and mission success.

“Our aerospace and technology company was founded on the belief that true innovation in our space means bringing technologically advanced, affordable and highly customisable solutions to the needs of our customers and partners. We are accordingly very excited to launch the N-Raven unmanned aerial vehicle at IDEX, and showcase its diverse capabilities in addressing the battlefield challenges of 2021 and beyond”.

Martin UAV to Demonstrate Their Upgraded V-BAT at the Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiment

Monday, February 22nd, 2021

Martin UAV, a leading advanced aviation technology manufacturer in the United States, today announced its selection and further participation in the Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiment (AEWE), which assesses advanced technologies in support of the U.S. Army modernization efforts, including the Army’s six modernization priorities. AEWE is taking place Feb. 5-March 5, 2021, at Fort Benning in Georgia. 

For AEWE, Martin UAV deployed and is scheduled to demonstrate its newly upgraded version of the V-BAT, the V-BAT 128, showcasing increased power, payloads and endurance. Among the V-BAT 128’s enhancements are updates to the engine with increased horsepower, 11 hours of endurance, higher ceiling (20,000′ MSL) and interchangeable payloads (25 lbs not including fuel weight) for mission-specific requirements. The improved version of the V-BAT maintains its current small VTOL footprint to launch, transport and operate.

“We are honored to be a part of AEWE, being among some of the best organizations in the industry, to support their efforts to explore increased innovation,” said Heath Niemi, Chief Development Officer. “We have listened to our customers and are excited to deploy our upgraded V-BAT, displaying how Martin UAV is increasing mission capability, security and mitigating operational risk. The V-BAT’s versatility and agile nature of its competencies lend itself well for the varied needs of the Army and we could not be more excited about the upcoming demo days.”

Founded in 2015, Martin UAV and the V-BAT aircraft is best-known among government agencies for the organization’s work with the Department of Defense, supporting the Army, Marines and, most recently, the United States Southern Command’s (SOUTHCOM) enhanced counter narcotics operation in the Eastern Pacific.                             

AEWE assesses Cross Domain Maneuver (CDM) concepts and capabilities at the lower tactical echelon in support of Multi Domain Operations (MDO). The Experimentation Force (EXFOR) will employ mutually supporting lethal and nonlethal capabilities across multiple domains (air, land, space, and cyberspace), the electromagnetic spectrum, and the information environment to create a synergistic effect that increases relative combat power and provides overmatch. It is the Army’s primary venue for Small Unit modernization, providing capability developers, Cross Functional Teams (CFTs), PEO’s, Army Science and Technology (S&T) community, and industry a repeatable, credible, rigorous operational experiment supporting both concept and material development.

The AEWE V-BAT 128 demos take place on Feb. 19, Feb. 23, Feb. 26 and March 2 at Fort Benning. For more information on Martin UAV, its V-BAT and use across industries, visit: martinuav.com

Crye Precision Announces Newest Addition to G4 Line

Monday, February 22nd, 2021

Brooklyn, NY – February 22 – Crye Precision®, one of the leading suppliers of uniforms and personal equipment to the military, law enforcement and public safety markets, has announced the newest addition to their innovative G4 line, the G4 Temperate Shell.

The G4 uniform line is the sum of extensive research and testing, resulting in unmatched performance and revolutionary design. The line has expanded to offer something for every environment and condition, from standard operations to hot weather and FR. Now, the Temperate Shell’s introduction brings a new climate zone.

G4 Temperate Shell provides weather resistance in mild temperatures, all-over stretch for enhanced mobility, and reduced bulk when layering. It is designed to be layered with base layers in cooler climates and constructed from lightweight stretch nylon with a water-repellent finish to keep you dry. The G4 Temperate Shell Jacket features zippered shoulder pockets that are low profile and engineered to reduce bulk while still allowing room for all essential gear, adjustable drawcord hem and cuffs that stretch with integrated thumb loops. The pants feature pockets that are lined in mesh for maximum airflow and accelerated dry times.

“We are excited to expand our already diverse G4 line of uniforms,” stated Director of Marketing, Ernesto Rodriguez. “The G4 Temperate Shell offers a solution for those mild temperatures and climates that require a bit more protection from the elements. We know our customers will enjoy the performance and comfort this uniform line offers.”

The G4 Temperate Shell Uniforms are available now through the Crye Precision® website, www.cryeprecision.com.

AeroVironment, Inc. Completes Acquisition of Arcturus UAV, Expands Portfolio with Medium Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Monday, February 22nd, 2021

• Arcturus UAV’s complementary capabilities provide program diversification, increase key customer penetration and enhance shareholder value

• Transaction adds leading medium Unmanned Aircraft Systems to AeroVironment’s portfolio of intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems

• Vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) JUMP 20 unmanned aircraft system delivers reliable, multi-mission capabilities without launchers or runways to USSOCOM and other customers

AeroVironment completes acquisition of Arcturus UAV (Photo: AeroVironment)

SIMI VALLEY, Calif., Feb. 22, 2021 – AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems, today announced it had completed its acquisition of Arcturus UAV, Inc. a leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The approximately $405 million transaction was previously announced in a press release on January 13, 2021.

The United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) selected Arcturus UAV as one of six companies qualified for the potential $975 million indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity MEUAS IV contract in June 2020. The contract enables awardees to compete for site-specific task orders and provide USSOCOM with unmanned aircraft systems services and support for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. Arcturus UAV employs its VTOL JUMP 20 in support of USSOCOM operations, minimizing the logistical footprint of UAS operations while delivering multi-payload, multi-mission capabilities. Arcturus UAV is also one of four awardees selected for funded development and demonstrations supporting the U.S. Army’s FTUAS program, a potential billion dollar, and next-generation UAS program.

“Like AeroVironment, the Arcturus UAV team is laser-focused on supporting its customers around the world with the most reliable and effective products and services for their missions,” said Wahid Nawabi, president and chief executive officer. “As we welcome the Arcturus UAV team to AeroVironment, we commit to maintaining or exceeding the high level of service our existing and new customers experience. The JUMP 20 and T-20 platforms, combined with associated ISR services, represent a significant expansion to AeroVironment’s portfolio of intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems that will enhance long-term shareholder value and help our customers around the world Proceed with Certainty.”

AeroVironment completed the acquisition of Arcturus UAV on February 19, 2021, resulting in Arcturus UAV becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary operating under the AeroVironment brand. 

Blackhawk Releases New Stache IWB Concealment Holster

Monday, February 22nd, 2021

Ambidextrous and Modular Holster Gives Shooters Flexibility While Carrying

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – February 22, 2021 – Blackhawk®, a leader in law enforcement and military equipment for over 20 years, has announced the release of its new Stache™ IWB Concealment Holster. Meticulously engineered, this Inside the Waistband (IWB) holster is the ultimate solution for everyday carry, with the perfect balance of comfort, rigidity, and modularity.

Constructed with impact-reinforced, injection-molded polymer, the Stache IWB outperforms the design and material limitations of Kydex® holsters at a price that doesn’t break the bank.  With its ambidextrous design, the Stache IWB also gives both right- and left-handed shooters a comfortable and versatile carry option. The Stache also comes standard with a low-profile shirt guard for added comfort without inhibiting the draw stroke.

“If the holster isn’t comfortable, eventually the carrier will choose a different holster – or worse, stop carrying entirely,” said Justin Hoffman, Blackhawk product manager. “We want people to carry, which is why we developed the Stache.”

Designed to never be seen, the Stache gives users unparalleled comfort and firearm security. The Stache utilizes an optional concealment claw to reduce printing and to add a greater level of stability when carried.

“The concealment claw uses opposing leverage on the interior of the belt, so as the belt pulls the holster in, the claw pushes out,” said Hoffman. “By harnessing this leverage, the pistol grip is pulled in toward the body, reducing printing. By changing out the different sized leverage pads provided, users can tailor the concealment factor to their gun, their body type, and their preference.”

Additional features on the Stache include a 1.5-inch J-style belt clip for secure attachment, as well as height and cant adjustment for both the holster and the optional magazine carrier. Available in Base and Premium configurations, the holster is compatible with a variety of other Blackhawk IWB carry accessories and with Discreet Carry Concepts Gear Clips™.

Optics ready, the Stache IWB is designed to accept popular handgun mounted red dot sights. Multiple variations of the Stache IWB Holster are available to fit a wide range of handguns including the GLOCK 17, GLOCK 19, GLOCK 43, GLOCK 48, SIG SAUER P365, S&W M&P 2.0, S&W Shield, Colt Commander, Taurus G2C and Ruger LC9.

“The Stache was designed by concealed carriers, for concealed carriers,” concluded Hoffman. “When you put it on, carry it and train with it, you will understand why.”

MSRP for the Stache IWB Holster is $39.95 for the Base option and $64.95 for the Premium configuration. For more information about the Stache IWB Holster including in-depth product videos, imagery and specs, visit Blackhawk.com.

Service Goes Beyond the Job

Sunday, February 21st, 2021

GALLS® Security Officer, Zack Tyra, draws on his First Responder experience while assisting victims of a weather-related car accident.

(L to R): Zach Tyra, GALLS Security Officer, Mike Fadden, CEO GALLS, Ernie Evans GALLS Head of Security.

Lexington, Ken. (February 2021) – Just another blustery day in the foothills of Lexington, Kentucky. Linda P. (named changed to protect identity) was winding her way home on a two-lane country road when it began to sleet, then snow. Anxious to get home before the roads became impassable, she gripped the steering wheel and continued slowly down the treacherous road. Ahead, another car seemed to be coming into her lane. She quickly realized the occupants in the other car were unable to control the car’s slide in her direction and finding her tires sliding on the icy road, she braced for impact.

The head-on collision forced both cars off the road. As Linda took a quick inventory of herself, she wasn’t sure of any injuries and attempted to use her cell phone to call for help. Where Linda was, cell phone reception was spotty, if at all. Her driver’s door was jammed, the snow kept falling and she began to fear that help may be a long time coming on this isolated road.

Zach Tyra, the new Security Officer at GALLS® headquarters in Lexington, had just finished his shift at 3 p.m. when he decided, despite the cold rain coming down, that a leisurely drive home in his SUV on the back roads would be a nice change after a busy work week. While listening to his favorite radio station, Zach meandered along the empty back roads as the weather became more inclement. As he neared his home stretch, Zach saw what he thought was a car that had slid off the road. As he neared the snow-covered vehicle, he quickly realized it was two vehicles involved in an accident.

Instantly, Zach’s years of training as a First Responder and Law Enforcement Officer kicked in. He pulled to the side of the road and grabbed his “Blow Out Kit” (first aid bag). Zach approached Linda’s vehicle and seeing her, attempted to open the driver’s side door. It had jammed during the collision. Zach accessed the vehicle’s interior through the rear passenger door and asked her if she was all right and if she was hurting anywhere.

Linda breathed a sigh of relief but still felt anxious and uncertain. She let Zach know she was okay but cold and was concerned for the occupants in the other car. Zach took his heavy coat and wrapped her in it while assuring her he would be right back after checking on them. He found the other victims were in better condition and were able to stay warm. Zach’s concern was the lone lady stuck in her car.

Drawing on his previous experience, he knew his first task was to keep her calm until help arrived. Upon returning to Linda’s vehicle, he settled into the back and asked her if she would like to pray with him. They prayed together, and then the small talk filled the chilly car while they waited. Linda talked about her job and her two kids. Zach told her about his life in law enforcement and his new job at GALLS. Zach’s presence helped Linda remain calm during what seemed to her, hours before help arrived.

It wasn’t hours, but even with the delay due to the weather, the First Responders finally arrived. Zach was relieved to see old friends among the emergency personnel and quickly assured Linda she was in the best of hands. As they loaded Linda in the ambulance, Zach, an occasional road angel, said goodbye. Seeing a smile return to her face, he knew his job was done.

Zach placed his first aid bag back in his SUV, waved to his former colleagues, and as he got in his vehicle to finally head home, he remembered a quote he had heard early in his public safety career, “you do what you do, so that others may live.”

“Zach Tyra is a perfect example of the GALLS mission,” Mike Fadden, CEO of GALLS, said. “We are proud to serve our public safety professionals and the communities we live and work in. Zach responded as his former first responder training dictated, and as a proud member of the GALLS team, we salute him.”