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Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

HENSOLDT and L3Harris Join Forces for NATO Surveillance Programme

Wednesday, September 15th, 2021

Taufkirchen, Germany, 14 September 2021 – Sensor solutions provider HENSOLDT and L3Harris Technologies join forces to develop new capabilities for NATO’s Alliance Future Surveillance and Control (AFSC) programme. Both companies have signed a joint strategic cooperation agreement to combine their respective skills in the areas of platform-independent mission solutions.

In the frame of the cooperation, HENSOLDT, with its track record in developing and manufacturing sensors and mission systems, will contribute, among other things, capabilities in the areas of active and passive sensors, sensor data fusion and network management capabilities.

“Next-generation surveillance requires an intelligent approach to platform-independent, networked high-end sensors, AI-based date exploitation and dissemination” said Jürgen Halder, Head of Strategic Projects at HENSOLDT’s Spectrum Dominance division. “L3Harris and HENSOLDT with their respective strengths are ideally suited to offer NATO the optimum solution.”

“Our team will explore open systems, multi-function solutions and data-centric concepts to sustain the NATO Alliance’s military advantage from 2035 and beyond“,  said Dave Johnson, Vice President, Strategy, Integrated Mission Systems, L3Harris.

L3Harris and HENSOLDT are part of an international team that brings together NATO nations’ industrial expertise in surveillance and control. This team will analyse the risks and feasibility of technologies and components within its system-of-systems approach to enhance the NATO Alliance’s capabilities to 2035 and beyond.  L3Harris’ international teammates share a common vision: to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of future NATO military operations through the procurement and integration of a multi-domain (AFSC) capability centred around the data enterprise.

Saab’s Next Generation Combat Boat on the Thames

Tuesday, September 14th, 2021

Travelling for the first time outside of its native Sweden Saab’s Combat Boat 90 NG (CB90), a new generation of this fast assault craft, has toured the Thames visiting London landmarks.  The combat boat will be shown from 14-17 September at the DSEI exhibition taking place at ExCeL London.


Photo: Jamie Hunter

Building on the previous generation of more than 250 boats operating worldwide, the CB90 Next Generation (CB90 NG) features new capabilities. Designed to swiftly transport marines and other forces, CB90 NG is renowned for the ease by which troops can rapidly get on-shore and depart again, be it a beach or an awkward, elevated rocky shore. Depending on the mission, CB90 NG can take on different roles such as to search for threats, share intelligence, rapidly deploy troops and attack the enemy. CB90 NG includes a new combat management system and sensors for surveillance, ballistic protection, as well as further improved stealth, manoeuvrability and speed. By providing amphibious forces with multi-mission capabilities, CB90 NG is an even more potent means by which to project force from the sea.

“It’s great to have CB90 NG here in London on its first visit outside of Sweden.  We are proud of our combat boat and the capability it offers to our partners, and feel privileged to show it off to Londoners on the Thames today,” said Magnus Lewis-Olsson, Chairman of Saab UK.

CB90 NG has potential applications with specialist military units such as the Royal Marines Future Commando Force and the Littoral Strike Groups. The example of CB90 NG seen on the Thames and shown at DSEI this week was recently delivered to the Swedish Navy, with the designation Docksta CB 90HSM. It is representative of how CB90 Next Generation is customised to meet a customer’s requirement, and DSEI gives armed forces the chance to see and learn more about this adaptability in person.

The exceptionally fast and agile combat boat has a top speed well beyond 40 knots and can carry up to 21 amphibious troops with full equipment.  Additionally it can be armed with large calibre machine guns, a MK19 grenade launcher, naval mines and depth charges, as well as Saab’s own Trackfire (a remote weapons station that enable weapons to fire with superb accuracy whilst the boat is on the move).

CB90 Next Generation will put on displays twice-daily as part of DSEI’s waterborne demonstrations outside the main hall. Saab is welcoming visitors to DSEI to come along to where the craft will be docked on the Royal Docks to see CB90 NG for themselves.

For over 40 years Saab’s relationship with the UK has empowered defence and security personnel, shared technological developments and helped to keep Britain safe. As a pioneer of innovation, Saab is committed to developing leading-edge technologies and capabilities that drive interoperability and provide the UK with the upper-hand over challenges and adversaries. Saab UK’s collaboration seeks to bring together the best of British and Swedish engineering.

Watch video of the CB90 in action here.

Mission First Tactical (MFT) Announces the MFT Extreme Duty Polymer Mag 7.62 X 51 NATO

Tuesday, September 14th, 2021

Available in 10 rounds, the MFT Extreme Duty Polymer Magazine utilizes new material technology and manufacturing processes for enhanced strength, durability, and reliability.

Horsham, Pa. (September 2021) – Mission First Tactical, LLC (MFT™), a leader in USA-made rifle/carbine accessories, is proud to introduce the MFT Extreme Duty Polymer Mag 7.62 X 51 NATO, available in a 10 round option. Designed for the AR10A/SR25/M1110 pattern rifles, the MFT Extreme Duty Polymer Mag has been optimized for use with SAAMI-spec 7.62×51 and .308 Winchester ammunition.

Manufactured using the newest material technology and processes, the Extreme Duty Polymer Magazines with their next-generation, long glass-fiber polymer construction offers perfection in structural performance: strength, durability, and reliability to exceed demanding military performance specs. A long-life USGI-Spec stainless steel spring is corrosion resistant. The four-way, anti-tilt, self-lubricating follower keeps the rounds aligned and makes mag feeding consistent and reliable, while virtually eliminating jams.

The front and rear of the gripping surface is ribbed for a positive grip, even with gloves.  An oversized bolt-catch provides enhanced reliability of the bolt catch operation. The flared floor plate allows for an easier grip in handling and extraction and one-hand reloads. Wrapping up the multiple benefits to the Extreme Duty Polymer Mag 7.62 X 51 NATO is a paint dox matrix to allow for easy marking and identification of magazines and the tool-less disassembly with the double floor plate safety release tabs. Available in Black and Scorched Dark Earth with an MSRP of $22.99.

Mission First Tactical is proud to dedicate the new 7.62x51mm magazines to the memory of Frank DeSomma from Patriot Ordnance Factory. It was a privilege to work with him through the development process. He will be missed greatly!

Mission First Tactical products come with a Lifetime Warranty. For more information on Mission First Tactical, www.missionfirsttactical.com.

Energetics Technology Ltd Launch Door Breaching Grenade

Tuesday, September 14th, 2021

A new breaching grenade technology developed by the UK Government has been licensed to Energetics Technology Limited (ETL) in a deal that will improve Explosive Method of Entry (EMOE) operations and improve safety for operatives.

UK-based ETL has taken a licence for a 40mm stand-off breaching grenade technology developed by Dstl; brokered by Ploughshare Innovations in its role as the MOD’s Technology Transfer Office.

The Grenade is designed for use in scenarios where there is a need to breach locked doors to gain access to a building or room. It deforms a variety of door materials – including multi-lock steel doors.

The improved directional control of the explosive blast lowers the risk to the breaching team and reduces their stand-off distance. Fragmentation effects behind the door are minimised, reducing collateral damage and highly targeted, there is also a reduced amount of explosives used.

For further information, please visit: www.energetics-technology.com/products/ammunition-2

The Aardvark Group Unveils RANG-R at DSEI

Tuesday, September 14th, 2021

The RANG-R (Remote Autonomous Next Generation-Rover) is Aardvark’s next generation, class leading, multi-role, autonomous Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) developed through a collaboration with some of the leading minds in the fields of Autonomous vehicles, Artificial Intelligence, Sensor Technology, and the Human Machine Interface to extend critical missions whilst massively reducing the human burden.

Key capabilities:

• Can be deployed on logistics support, C-EO / C-IED, humanitarian and conservation

missions.

• Payload capacity of 3,850Kg (2 x NATO pallets).

• Autonomous load and off load capability.

• Maximum speed of 70 kph.

• Range of 100 km and 72 hr run time without resupply.

RANG-R will be deployed in Defence, Policing, Security and Search & Rescue environs with an advanced toolkit adaptable to match a vast scope of operational requirements and was borne out of our clients informing us that their operations were becoming more remote, more complex, harder to supply and in vastly more hazardous environments. These factors have resulted in the need to carry high levels of capability, equipment, and supplies to maintain the welfare of operators, potentially at the cost of task effectiveness and ultimately increasing the physical burden on the team.

By working with operators around the globe, Aardvark has created an advanced technological solution to these client needs by developing a UGV that can provide crucial support to the front line, reduce the logistical burden of resupply, whilst delivering security and supporting the sustainment of effort on the task. RANG-R can be fitted with a range of tools designed to mitigate a wide variety of threats whilst integrating with other advanced technologies to provide enhanced situational awareness.

The Aardvark Group’s CEO, David St John-Claire said:

“Our clients required a multi-role UGV solution that embodied the Aardvark ethos of reliability, survivability and affordability and I truly believe that the RANG-R delivers fully against that requirement.

“I am incredibly proud of the Aardvark family of colleagues and strategic partners who have worked tirelessly during the pandemic to deliver RANG-R to market.”

www.aardvark.group

Milrem Robotics and MSI-Defence Systems Limited Present Unmanned Kinetic C-UAV Capabilities

Tuesday, September 14th, 2021

MSI-Defence Systems Limited (MSI-DSL), the developer of leading-edge weapon and underwater systems and the European leading robotics and autonomous system developer Milrem Robotics jointly present highly mobile, unmanned kinetic C-UAV capabilities at DSEI 2021.

Utilising Milrem Robotics’ THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) integrated with MSI-DSL’ Remote Weapon Systems (RWS) and Electrical Optical Sensor Systems the companies are offering a step change in countering mini-UAV, loitering munitions or other small difficult to detect airborne targets.

The highly mobile, unmanned C-UAS systems will be capable of carrying payloads from 7.62 to 30 mm including the Northrop Grumman M230 cannon and Thales LMM missiles. It will also be able to find and engage larger air threats as well as ground targets, even if armoured. All without the operator being exposed to the threats.

“MSI-DSL and Milrem are committed to providing ‘cutting edge’ capabilities to the operator providing a highly deployable system with unique lethality and survivability. The autonomous nature of the system enables the operator to Sense, Identify, Decide and Effect over a wide area without placing the operator in areas of undue risk,” said Russell Gregory, Head of Strategy, Industrial Relations and Market Development at MSI-DSL.

“In recent conflicts there has been an increase in the usage of drones and loitering munition against various military targets. The employment of this type of equipment has made low-level conflicts more lethal. Utilizing unmanned ground systems with intelligent functions to counter these new threats helps increase force protection, provide flexibility to tactical units to engage aerial and/or land targets, and ultimately reduce loss of life,” said Captain (res) Jüri Pajuste, Defence Research and Development Director at Milrem Robotics.

The unmanned C-UAS platforms provide highly effective protection for both tactical and static sites for deployed assets and critical infrastructure.

The first jointly developed system is on display at DSEI 2021 in London 13-14 September in Milrem Robotics’ stand no H4-122.

Nicomatic Launches New DBMM Series Micro Connectors and Showcases Extensive Aerospace and Defence Portfolio at DSEI

Monday, September 13th, 2021

New space-saving DBMM Range with integrated backshells; Optimus EN4165 aero rectangular series; modular & configurable micro interconnects plus custom designs

Sep 2021, Bon-en-Chablais, France: Nicomatic, the leading manufacturer of high performance interconnect systems, is showcasing its extensive portfolio of modular, highly-configurable and custom interconnects on Stand H2-872 at DSEI 2021.  Specialising in micro connectors for civil and military aerospace applications, Nicomatic has an impressive track record of innovation and customer problem-solving spanning over 40 years, resulting in its products being selected for multiple aerospace and military applications worldwide.

Nicomatic has invested substantially in R & D over the past two years, typically reinvesting over 15% of total revenue into new product development.  Launching at DSEI 2021 is the new DBMM Series – Nicomatic’s DMM 2mm connectors now with fully integrated backshells.  DBMM connectors save space, measuring only 15mm front to back, are easy to handle and offer excellent EMI protection.  Qualified to MIL-DTL-83513, two models are available: DBMM220 (4 to 32 contacts) and DBMM320 (6 to 48 contacts).  They suit high power and high frequency applications such as missile systems, military aircraft and radar systems.  

Nicomatic will be also be showcasing its aero modular EN4165 Optimus connector, a versatile low-profile, user-configurable rectangular I/O connector series offering high density and space-saving compared to circular connectors.  Designers can specify the layout they require, including signal and power contacts. Able to withstand 500 mating and de-mating cycles, high shock and vibration and extreme temperatures, Optimus interconnects provide excellent protection against EMI and are waterproof. Fully interchangeable with existing EN4165 solutions, Optimus connectors are a space-saving and stackable solution designed for equipment interface connection to a harness or in rack & panel installations.

Easily customizable thanks to Nicomatic’s modular manufacturing capabilities, the company’s miniature, hi-rel connectors deliver excellent performance and can be stacked closely together to minimize PCB space. Also showing at DSEI are the 1mm pitch nano density AMM Series, rated for 15G vibration, 100G shock and operating temperatures between -65degC to 200degC, plus the 1.27mm pitch EMM Series, which meets the performance requirements of MIL 83513 and is 20% smaller than standard Micro D connectors. Featuring integrated 90° back protection and reversed contacts, EMM connectors suit board-to-board and board-to-wire configurations in any pin selection from 4 to 60 signal contacts.

Nicomatic will also demonstrate its capabilities in cabling solutions, including the Microflex Hi-Rel Flexible Harness for high vibration environments.

www.nicomatic.com

Spectra Group Receives Another SlingShot Order from Major European Customer

Monday, September 13th, 2021

Spectra Group, the specialist provider of secure voice, data and satellite communications systems, has received an order for their SlingShot satellite communications system from an undisclosed European ministry of defence. The order is for specialist use by troops currently deployed on remote operations globally. This announcement coincides with DSEI taking place in London 14-17 September where Spectra Group will be exhibiting on stand H6-107.

Spectra Group’s SlingShot system is unique in that it can be integrated with in-service UHF and VHF tactical communications radios to extend the range from 30km to 1000(+) km on the move, in all conditions. By integrating SlingShot and Inmarsat’s L-TAC satellite service with in-service radios, the deployed troops have immediately gained communications capability that would otherwise not be available. In addition to Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) voice, SlingShot includes a data capability supporting critical applications such as situational awareness tools; GPS tracking; reporting and other data messaging without the requirement for ground-based line-of-sight rebroadcasting infrastructure. Enabling an extension of the in-service radios with the robust SlingShot system also means that troops do not need to carry both VHF radios (for line-of-sight) and UHF TACSAT radios (for strategic rear link). With SlingShot, a single radio can carry-out both functions. Finally, the small omni-directional antennas utilised with SlingShot provide manpack, land, sea and air platforms, with real-time Comms on the Move (COTM) rather than Comms on the Pause, as experienced with traditional TACSAT systems.

In March 2021, the British Armed Forces announced that they had equipped regular Army units with Spectra Group’s SlingShot system, as they deploy on Operations and Exercises, to enable tactical satellite communications across the area of operations. At the time, Major General Jonathan Cole, Director of Information and CIO of the British Army, said: “SlingShot is a fantastic addition to our communications inventory, delivering vital capability to deployed troops. Of particular note is the fact that the training burden is minimal as the system is effectively a ‘bolt-on’ to our current BOWMAN radios. SlingShot is a game-changer in allowing our troops to operate at reach without the additional requirement to deploy more troops to provide rebroadcast capability when operating at Battle Group level and below. I am delighted to be working with Spectra on the fielding of such an important capability”.

Simon Davies, CEO of Spectra Group, said: “We are very pleased to receive yet another order from a European specialist user group. We have seen SlingShot become a battle-winning capability used by Special Forces across the globe, but we’re delighted to see our SlingShot system now being procured for use on operations by this new customer for the first time”. He added: “The beauty of SlingShot is that it can be “plugged into” any in-service tactical radio system. Numerous Armed Forces, including the British Army, are leading the way with this kind of approach to the integration of SlingShot but we’re now seeing other global forces, including the USA, adopt a similar strategy to meet every Beyond Line Of Sight communications scenario”.