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GPS Source Receives Order for 1,000th MAPS GEN I Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing System

Friday, May 14th, 2021

Increasing electronic warfare threats drive U.S. Army demand for the first fielded Mounted Assured PNT System.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – GPS Source, a subsidiary of General Dynamics Mission Systems and the only provider of a currently fielded Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (APNT) solution available to the U.S. Army, announced today it has received an order for the 1,000th Mounted APNT System (MAPS), Generation I (MAPS GEN I).

MAPS GEN I is a mobile modular system that monitors GPS signals for validity and sends the validated data to military devices, even when GPS signals are degraded or denied. This system has been in rapid development, production, and fielding since the recognition of the critical need to protect GPS signals against peer and near-peer adversary electronic warfare attacks. It is the only mounted assured PNT solution allowing warfighters to conduct mobile operations in a GPS-contested environment.

The Army fielded the MAPS GEN I system in the fall of 2019, making it the first APNT solution to market. The Army deployed 62 systems and several systems engineers to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment in Germany for installation and continued testing. Based on successful installation and performance of these systems and over 40 previously deployed systems, the Army’s Project Manager Positioning, Navigation, and Timing submitted orders for more than 930 additional systems to be installed in ground vehicles in 2021.

“The MAPS GEN I that is being fielded today closes a critical capability gap for the U.S. Army in major areas of responsibility around the world,” said Aaron Mebust, vice president and director for PNT Products at General Dynamics Mission Systems. “We are proud to deliver this capability to the Army and are working to develop new capabilities to combat these evolving threats and help keep our soldiers safe.”

Prior to testing and deploying MAPS GEN I, the Army used other GPS Source products, having previously fielded the D3 (DAGR Distributed Device) PNT hub and the ECHO-II GPS indoor retransmission smart amplifier, and thousands of military grade components to receive disseminate and rebroadcast GPS data. Since 2000, GPS Source has provided GPS distribution and validation equipment to the U.S. military.

More information about the MAPS GEN I and other APNT solutions developed by GPS Source is available at www.gpssource.com.

Posted in Comms, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Noisefighters and its Development Partner Nightline, Inc. Introduces Panobridge, a 1.5 oz Night Vision Bridge Mount with Industry-Changing Adjustable Field of View Capability, Alongside Development and Distribution Partners Gamut Resolutions, Kinetic Consulting, MK Machining, PRG Defense, Nitewalker, and Tactical Night Vision Company (TNVC)

Friday, May 14th, 2021

GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN (14 MAY, 2021)

NOISEFIGHTERS and its development partner NIGHTLINE, INC., and its product testing partners GAMUT RESOLUTIONS and KINETIC CONSULTING, and its manufacturing partner MK MACHINING, and its distribution partners PRG DEFENSE NITEWALKER, and TACTICAL NIGHT VISION COMPANY (TNVC) today announces the release of the patent pending PANOBRIDGE™ dual AN/PVS-14 night vision monocular bridge mount, which includes two industry-changing features: a total weight of only 1.5 oz / 42 g — or approximately 70% less weight than one of most popular competing AN/PVS-14 bridge mounts — and a proprietary mechanism that permits users to selectively adjust the goggle’s field of view from 40 to approximately 75 degrees by laterally rotating (or “panning”) each individual monocular outward to create a split image, which is then automatically merged in the user’s brain to form one cohesive, super-wide, panoramic image. By exploiting this new AFOV — or Adjustable Field of View — concept, the Panobridge eliminates the so-called tube effect experienced by night vision users and provides enhanced situational awareness. Whenever desired, the AFOV mechanism permits the tubes to be quickly pointed straight ahead, as currently provided with conventional binocular night vision goggles.

Photo representation inside Nightline, Inc.’s indoor training facility of the standard and split view panoramic image through dual AN/PVS-14 monoculars mounted on Panobridge

“There are millions of AN/PVS-14 monoculars in use worldwide, and many organizations and individuals are currently trying to find a way to extend and improve the working life and utility of these rugged, dependable night vision devices, ” said Neal Brace, owner of Noisefighters and inventor of the device. “Multi-tube night vision goggles provide much higher levels of immersion and depth perception by sending information to both eyes. Instead of purchasing new binocular or quad-tube night vision goggles, however, Panobridge presents a compelling, extremely inexpensive upgrade path for unmodified AN/PVS-14 monoculars to not only create a capable and lightweight dual-tube goggle, but also bring panoramic night vision viewing capabilities to the masses for the first time. While this product is not intended to replace quad-tube goggles for those specialized units which require them, I believe Panobridge provides a much more compact alternative, with a competitively wide field of view, at a price point which is accessible to all night vision users.”

Dual AN/PVS-14 monoculars with Nightline, Inc. NL914C lightweight digital battery housings installed, mounted to Noisefighters Panobridge in Cerakote® RAL8000 color

“By utilizing accessible AN/PVS-14 monoculars and requiring no extra hardware, the Panobridge allows organizations to continue the use of current night vision devices within a well-supplied and defined logistics network, eliminating the need for additional systems and training,” said Lee Collette, President of Nightline, Inc. “In addition, Nightline’s proprietary NL914C multi-battery housing further enhances the advantages of the Panobridge by creating a lighter weight, adjustable binocular with improved ergonomics, along with a wider, more natural field of view. At only 22.5 ounces or 638 grams assembled weight, with batteries included, this panoramic night vision system is a game-changing combination where two products come together to create an amazing synergy for the user.”

Dual AN/PVS-14 monoculars with Nightline, Inc. NL914C lightweight digital battery housings installed, mounted to Noisefighters Panobridge in Cerakote® Armor Black color, top view

During the development process, Mr. Brace sought feedback from some of the most experienced night vision users to ensure the Panobridge delivered an experience that matched or exceeded quad-tube goggle performance in four key areas: situational awareness, operational flexibility, overall weight and size, and price.

“What Noisefighters has managed to do with the Panobridge is incredible,” said the current owner of Gamut Resolutions training group, retired Master Sergeant Bob Keller, a ten year member of the U.S. Army 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment – Delta (Delta Force). “The fact that I can stow a lightweight, compact panoramic night vision goggle in my cargo pocket is game changing. The Panobridge presents the first worthwhile alternative to quad tube goggles that I’ve found. It is simple and tough, and by integrating standard AN/PVS-14 monoculars, it eliminates many logistical headaches.”

Exclusive product launch packaging with Noisefighters Panobridge in Cerakote® Armor Black color

Other reviewers with special operations experience found the Panobridge similarly appealing. “Most people and organizations can’t afford quad tube goggles. The Panobridge, coupled with two AN/PVS-14s, is the first alternative to quad tube goggles that I can now recommend for those looking for panoramic night vision,” said the current owner of Kinetic Consulting training group, Jon Dufresne, a former U.S. Army Ranger and current executive protection and law enforcement consultant who is additionally on staff with SAGE DYNAMICS.

Dual AN/PVS-14 monoculars with Nightline, Inc. NL914C lightweight digital battery housings installed, mounted to Panobridge in Cerakote® Armor Black color, front view

“The Panobridge is the best thing to happen to PVS-14 users in a very long time, with its extremely light weight and its wider field of view on demand,” said Will F., host of the popular Nitewalker night vision blog and video channel.

Night vision technology journalist Nick Chen provided a similarly concise summary of his findings: “The concept of the Panobridge is a clever trick and it does work. I was surprised how effective it is at giving you additional [field of view].” Mr. Chen’s review of the Panobridge is slated to be published 14 May, 2021 on The Firearm Blog, under the “Friday Night Lights” series of articles.

Other features of the Panobridge include:

-The ability to rotate the head slightly and peer through the gap between laterally-rotated (“panned out”) monoculars with an unaided eye in order to use a handheld thermal imager, aim pistol sights, glance at instrument panels, or view a scene using ambient light to better gauge distance, texture, color, or lighting. This is similar to the technique provided by using a single AN/PVS-14, but it is now available for multi-tube use.

Photo composite showing the use of a handheld thermal imager placed between laterally rotated (“panned out”) AN/PVS-14 monoculars and used directly in conjunction with Noisefighters Panobridge, courtesy of Nick Chen, journalist with The Firearm Blog.

-Both monoculars attached to the Panobridge may be individually swung upwards, completely out of the line of sight, without disturbing the adjacent device’s positioning. This feature also allows the PVS-14’s to better hug the helmet when the entire assembly is folded back in the stowed position, leading to a more balanced center of gravity and a reduced possibility of impacting door frames or other objects above the head.

-It is a nearly indestructible design utilizing an advanced, lightweight Arkema® polymer, all made possible by using the latest additive manufacturing techniques.

-The Panobridge will be available in extremely limited quantities as a launch exclusive in two Cerakote® ceramic finishes, Armor Black and RAL8000, and for general sale in flat black.

-The product is 100% manufactured and assembled in the U.S.A.

-The Panobridge is expected to retail between $500-700 depending on configuration.

In an effort to further exploit the Adjustable Field of View technology, Noisefighters and NOCTURN INDUSTRIES have agreed to collaborate and create a dedicated, lightweight binocular housing called the PANOBINO™ featuring the patent-pending AFOV mechanism and based on Nocturn Industries’ popular Katana™ Ultra-Light Articulating Night Vision Binocular. The companies expect a product launch later this year.

Concurrent with the development of the Panobridge, Mr. Brace developed a complementary product called the X14-Arm, which is a featherweight, single AN/PVS-14 night vision monocular mounting arm compatible with dovetail helmet mounts that tips the scales at only 0.7 oz / 20 g.

AN/PVS-14 monocular with Nightline, Inc. NL914C lightweight digital battery housing installed, mounted to X14-Arm in Cerakote® Armor Black color

“After getting positive feedback from those who evaluated the Panobridge, I recognized that individuals who use a single PVS-14 would likely benefit from the knowledge that we gained during the Panobridge development process,” said Mr. Brace. “The X14-Arm might just be the lightest night vision mounting arm ever released at only 0.7 ounces, yet it is very stiff for its weight due to the design, use of advanced polymers, and reliance on specialized manufacturing processes. If you only want to use one monocular, the X14-Arm is the ideal mounting solution.”

Exclusive product launch packaging with Noisefighters X14-Arm

Other features of the X14-Arm include:

-An intuitive, friction-based mechanism allows users to swing the PVS-14 monocular in front of either the left or right eye and perfectly adjust for interpupillary distance.

-It is a nearly indestructible design utilizing an advanced, lightweight Arkema® polymer, all made possible by using the latest additive manufacturing techniques.

-The product is 100% manufactured and assembled in the U.S.A.

-The X14-Arm is expected to retail between $100-150, depending on configuration.

Production of the polymer components for both the Panobridge and X14-Arm is being conducted by MK Machining, based in Hallsville, Missouri. MK Machining offers some of the most advanced additive manufacturing capabilities in the United States, with extensive experience from prototypes to production runs. In addition to their well-known throw levers and other additive-manufactured rifle accessories, MK Machining’s MK2 Bullpup Chassis radically transforms Remington 700 footprint rifles into a very compact precision rig with a surprisingly crisp trigger via an innovative linkage system.

CONTACT:

Noisefighters
www.noisefighters.com
team@noisefighters.com
616-226-3551
Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S.A.

Nightline, Inc.
nightline-inc.com
info@nightline.us
423-727-5900
Mountain City, Tennessee, U.S.A.

Posted in Optics, Press Release | 6 Comments »

XTech Tactical Releases 15rd to 17rd VP9 / P30 Magazine Conversion Kits

Thursday, May 13th, 2021

XTech Tactical has released its VP9/P30 9mm Magazine Conversion kits for the Heckler and Koch VP9 & P30 9mm. The kits convert factory H&K 15rd and XTech Tactical 15rd magazines to 17rds. The kits are MADE IN THE USA and are $17.95.

The kit includes a follower, spring button and base plate and will add two rounds to existing 15d magazines. The kit will not add rounds to the VP9 17rd magazines. The kit can serve as a direct replacement for damaged factory base plates.

www.xtechtactical.com/product/mtx-hk-vp9-p30-9mm-15-to-17-rd-conversion-kit

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 1 Comment »

Hoppe’s Brings Back the Classic Glass Bottle

Thursday, May 13th, 2021

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – May 11, 2021 – Hoppe’s, the No. 1 name in gun care products, is excited to announce the return of Hoppe’s No. 9 in its classic glass bottle. The return of the glass bottle comes after repeated requests on social media for Hoppe’s to “go back to glass”.

This nostalgic bottle comes complete with throwback artwork and label, and is sure to be a hit among shooters new and old. The bottle comes in the popular pint size, so gun owners can keep plenty of cleaner on hand at any given time. When the time comes for more Hoppe’s, the glass bottle can easily be reused year after year. This bottle is available in the United States only and comes with a child-resistant cap for safety.

The re-introduction of the Hoppe’s glass bottle is a direct result from numerous consumer requests. Hoppe’s faithful users have called, emailed, and reached out to the brand via social media to express their desire to see the glass bottle returned. “Too bad you still don’t use glass bottles,” wrote one fan. “I refill mine and use it over and over. Just seems like the right thing to do.” The team at Hoppe’s couldn’t agree more and everyone is excited to once again be able to offer this popular container.

Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner remains the most widely used remover of powder, lead, metal fouling and rust for firearms. The glass bottle features the same exact formulations found in standard bottles, so today’s gun owners can rest assure that their favorite firearms will remain protected.

To learn more about Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner or to see more Hoppe’s gun care products, visit hoppes.com.

Posted in Industry, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Hoppe’s Brings Back the Classic Glass Bottle

Military Exchanges Partner with RangeMe to Streamline American-Made Product Sourcing

Thursday, May 13th, 2021

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — May 13, 2021 — The Army & Air Force Exchange, Navy Exchange, Marine Corps Exchange, and Coast Guard Exchange are joining forces with RangeMe, the industry standard online product sourcing platform for retailers and suppliers, on a nationwide initiative to source American-made products for their shelves.

This endeavor is part of the ongoing commitment from the exchanges to bring more American-made products into their retail stores while enhancing categories that include pet supplies, PPE, housewares, toys, and more.

“RangeMe has established strong partnerships with the U.S. military exchanges, and we are thrilled to take this next step with them,” said Nicky Jackson, CEO and Founder of RangeMe. “This enhanced commitment to sourcing American-made products will help further their dedication to providing innovative, quality products to the men and women of the Armed Forces.”

Through RangeMe, the exchanges will easily discover products manufactured in America and meet their consumers’ needs. With more than 175,000 suppliers, RangeMe provides a vast array of brands representing nearly 1 million products that can meet the exchanges’ needs as they deepen their efforts to bring in more American-made products now and in the future.

American-made brands interested in working with the Exchanges can submit their products for review here: app.rangeme.com/exchangemadeinamerica.

Posted in Made In USA!, Press Release, Veterans | 7 Comments »

American Rheinmetall Vehicles Accelerates Growth with Opening of New Sterling Heights Facility

Thursday, May 13th, 2021

American Rheinmetall Vehicles (ARV), a subsidiary of leading defense industry giant Rheinmetall, recently opened a new facility in the DC3S complex in Sterling Heights, Michigan to accommodate the rapid growth associated with their offering for the U.S. Army’s Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle Program (OMFV).

This expansion increases ARV’s capacity to almost 28,000 square feet, and features ample room for the 30+ new team members brought on board to support the OMFV offering. Also included in the new space are two high bay areas that will be used for a hardware and software integration lab and prototype build area as the program progresses. Driven by strong and consistent growth, this early investment initiative demonstrates ARV’s commitment to the OMFV program and the U.S. Army.

“The investments we are making in our operations are a strong reflection of American Rheinmetall Vehicle’s position in the marketplace and positive outlook for the future,” said Matt Warnick, ARV’s Managing Director. “I’m excited that our team and new facility are well-positioned to fully support the Lynx OMFV offering and look forward to continuing to change the landscape of the U.S. defense industrial base by introducing next-generation manufacturing capabilities and creating new, quality U.S. jobs.”

The OMFV program is the priority ground-modernization program for the U.S. Army that will replace nearly 3,800 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles. The program begins with digital design phases that continue through early 2023, followed by development of prototype vehicles in 2024 and government testing beginning in early 2026.

www.rheinmetall-arv-us.com

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KONGSBERG Awarded Extension of US Army CROWS Frame Contract

Wednesday, May 12th, 2021

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace AS (KONGSBERG) has been awarded an extension to the CROWS IDIQ (Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity) frame contract with the US Army first announced September 14, 2018. This extension is valued at approximately 500 MUSD and is contingent upon future demand and annual allocations.

KONGSBERG continues the development of new, advanced versions of remote weapon station systems as well as serial deliveries to the United States Army, the United States Navy, the United States Marine Corps, and the United States Air Force.

“CROWS has become an essential capability for military platforms and soldier safety within the United States Armed Forces. This contract extension enables us to continue delivering systems that are advancing operational capabilities and effectiveness together with the team at Picatinny Arsenal”, says Pål Bratlie, Executive Vice President, Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace.

Meeting tomorrow’s requirement together with our customer

With more than 20 000 systems delivered worldwide and 14 years of CROWS experience, KONGSBERG will continue to support the soldiers with new systems, capabilities and features meeting tomorrow’s requirements while maintaining, supporting and keeping up to date a wide range of CROWS variants and support equipment.

All CROWS and RWS systems are produced in the KONGSBERG Johnstown, PA facility. Continuing the execution of this contract secures 3,000+ jobs, both directly and through the KONGSBERG U.S. supply chain.

With more than 20,000 systems sold to 26 nations, KONGSBERG is the world-leading provider of remote weapon stations.

Image of CROWS by Staff Sgt. Alexander Burnett, US Army 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) was added to this press release by editor for context.

Posted in Army, Contracts, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on KONGSBERG Awarded Extension of US Army CROWS Frame Contract

SIG SAUER Academy to Host Introduction to Pistol and PCC for Women with Team SIG’s Lena Miculek

Wednesday, May 12th, 2021

NEWINGTON, N.H., (May 12, 2021) – SIG SAUER Academy, the leading provider of the highest quality firearms instruction and tactical training in the world, is pleased to announce the addition of Introduction to Pistol and PCC for Females with Lena Miculek to the upcoming course schedule.

This course is a one-day women’s specific introductory course to pistol and pistol caliber carbine (PCC) taught by the top 3-Gun competitor, Team SIG’s Lena Miculek. In this course, Lena will boil down the most crucial things she has learned as a female competitive shooter including experience, technique, and mindset. The course will focus on building a solid foundation of pistol and PCC fundamentals and students will learn personalized shooting techniques to fit your body and play to your strengths, effective training and practice techniques at home and on the range, and proper gear setup.

Lena Miculek is a third-generation professional competitive shooter and regarded as the top female 3-Gun competitor and PCC specialist in the world. At the age of 17 Lena won her first World Champion Title and has since earned more than 80 major wins and 8 world titles in 5 shooting disciplines. Lena is now focused on training primarily in PCC, teaches, and is actively working to introduce and increase female participation in the professional shooting sports. She was recently named a “40 under 40” by SHOT Business magazine, earned the prestigious Gundies “Most Influential Female” award, and is the co-creator of the Miculek YouTube channel with over 1.2 million subscribers.

Introduction to Pistol and PCC for Women with Lena Miculek is being offered on Friday, June 28, 2021. To register and review the course outline, or review the comprehensive course offering for SIG SAUER Academy visit sigsaueracademy.com.

Posted in Advertiser, For the Ladies, Press Release, Training | Comments Off on SIG SAUER Academy to Host Introduction to Pistol and PCC for Women with Team SIG’s Lena Miculek