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Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

Recon K9 Seeks and Finds New Ballistic Partner

Wednesday, August 19th, 2020

Pompano Beach, Florida August 17, 2020, Recon K9 announced today that they have selected Point Blank Enterprises (PBE) of Pompano Beach, FL as their official manufacturing partner for their K9 ballistics offering. Recon K9 is taking aim at the global tactical K9 market as they hone their focus on becoming the strongest and most sophisticated tactical K9 vest manufacturer for federal, law enforcement, and military working dog handlers.

“We’ve decided to really narrow our focus on doing what we do best, which is creating customer-centric K9 tactical vests that exceed the handler’s expectations and mission requirements. When deciding on who to partner with regarding our ballistic offering it became apparent that Point Blank Enterprises was committed to the same vision we have for superior quality and attention to our customer’s needs. They made our choice an easy one to make” stated Jason Watson, Founder and President of Recon K9 LLC.

Watson began developing working dog equipment for USASOC (United States Army Special Operations Command) back in early 2013 while working for Remington where he developed Remington K9. Several years later when Remington changed course, Watson transferred his passion and his products to Capewell Aerial Systems to start their own K9 tactical manufacturing operation. After two corporate sales to private equity firms, Watson decided to take the reins and spin off his own company with the blessings and support of Capewell to start Recon K9. “I finally get to call all the shots with regards to the products and performance we put out to the market. Recon K9 is the culmination of my 14 years in K9 product development. It’s more than a passion, it’s a desire to create the most excuse free canine equipment that the market has experienced”, Watson noted. 

Jack Greenberg, a Director of Business Development for PBE said, “We’re very excited to collaborate with Recon K9 on their ballistic offerings. They have tremendous expertise in K9 applications, and now coupled with our superior ballistic solutions, I believe it’s a winning combo. We’re excited to support the global working dog community in a bigger way.”

Persistent Systems Completes Phase I of Robotic Command Vehicles program; Readies for Phase III

Tuesday, August 18th, 2020

Company officials say mobile ad hoc network will shine in complex, multi-unit battlefield scenarios 

For Immediate Release 

NEW YORK, N.Y. – August 18, 2020 – Persistent Systems, LLC (“Persistent”), a leader in mobile ad hoc network (MANET) solutions, announced today that it has successfully completed Phase I of the U.S. Army Robotic Command Vehicles (RCV) program.  

Run under the auspices of the Army Future Command’s Next Generation Combat Vehicles – Cross Functional Team, the RCV program aims to show the utility of manned-unmanned teaming with a future Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV) being able to control multiple RCV “wingmen.”   

During Phase I, a modified M113 tracked armored personnel carrier acted as an RCV surrogate while a modified Bradley infantry vehicle called the Mission Enabling Technologies-Demonstrator, or MET-D, served in lieu of a yet-to-be-built OMFV. 

 “We successfully networked the surrogate platforms in a point-to-point fashion with our Wave Relay MANET,” Brian Soles, VP of Government Relations & Business Strategy for Persistent Systems, said. “That means enabling the cameras, sensors and software as well as the command-and-control interface for control of the RCV and its gun systems.” 

Persistent Systems is now working with the Next Generation Combat Vehicles – Cross Functional Team and other stakeholders, such as Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center and C5ISR Center, to review lessons learned and further adapt Wave Relay capabilities. 

“We are really looking forward to Phase III of the Army RCV program,” Soles said, “because it’ll be a complex, RF-contested and -congested environment with multiple air, ground, and dismounted units, and that’s where Wave Relay’s scalability, resiliency and spectrum efficiency will shine.”    

ATLANTIC SIGNAL Receives Contract for All New York Emergency Services Units (ESU)

Tuesday, August 18th, 2020

Atlantic Signal was recently awarded and delivered the first of numerous orders for the NYPD ESU following extensive testing of the company’s exclusive ComTac V Patriot Headset, Invictus Push-to-Talk and ESU Speaker Mic with custom radio cable inline QD for quick change capabilities for their Motorola APX portable radios.

The Invictus push-to-talk was developed in 2017 to provide an updated/alternative to the old school U94 PTT option that had been prevalent since the late 1990s. The Invictus features both single and dual comm models with shrouded actuation switch(es) that allow the end-user to attach or detach protective shrouds. Both models include a blackened stainless steel MOLLE clip that allows the end-user to move the PTT switch(es) to the 3, 6 ,9 & 12 o’clock positions. Further, the Invictus MOLLE clip was designed to allow the user to remove the MOLLE clip from its normal ‘back’ position, which configures the PTT actuation switch(es) in an outboard position, and attach the clip to the ‘front’ of the Invictus PTT housing which positions the actuation switch(es) in an outboard orientation for left handed trigger-pullers.

The order includes the Atlantic Signal exclusive 3M/Peltor ComTac V Patriot headset featuring all-new ambient environment listening modes, ambidextrous noise canceling boom microphone, removable rubber headband and ARC rail mounts for the team’s Ops-Core protective helmets.

“We began working with ESU approximately 18 months ago after being notified they were looking to update what proved to be very outdated ancillary communications. As opposed to most other tactical communications suppliers/distributors, we design and manufacture our products and have in-house capabilities to customize our builds. ESU is a very demanding customer and are not the traditional part-time SWAT / tactical unit. Requirements for their needs included custom comms systems for Heavy Weapons and Tactics, Explosive Ordinance Disposal, SCUBA, EMT, High Angle Rescue, Vehicle and Train Extrication, Helicopter & HAZMAT. NYPD’s requirements are very similar to what we have done for the FBI Hostage Rescue Team. An example is, NYPD wanted its ESU operators to be able to quickly transition into tactical gear without having to unscrew, remove, re-position and screw back on their Motorola APX radio adapter. We provided an inline quick disconnect on the coiled radio cable assembly that allowed each officer to simply unplug his department issued shoulder mic cable from the radio and plug in his/her Atlantic Signal comms system without ever having to remove the actual radio connector. We had experience with this unique type of request having developed a similar inline QD system for Naval Special Warfare boat operators. We worked with each specialized team and developed comms solutions for their specific needs surrounding a single common headset, the Atlantic Signal exclusive ComTac V Patriot” stated Randall Hedrick, President and Managing General Member of Atlantic Signal.

NYPD ESU provides services analogous to the functions of a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. ESU responds to high-risk, tactical operations involving barricaded suspects, hostage situations, high- warrant service, tactical crowd control and dignitary/VIP protective operations. ESU also provides operations and technician level response to hazardous materials (HAZMAT) incidents involving the presence of industrial or illicit chemical, biological or radiological agents involving criminals or terrorists. ESU is also trained to rescue victims from structural collapse, high-rise structure, confined spaces, trench collapse, vehicle and rail car accident, and machinery accident entrapment. They may also respond to persons having difficulty breathing, heart attacks, and strokes as first responders, or along with local EMS.

NYPD ESU performs both surface and underwater victim rescue, searches and evidence recovery as well as to provide “crisis response” to incidents involving psychologically disturbed individuals. ESU members sometimes provide immediate fire suppression and victim rescue for fires occurring in massive and highly populated structural locations that are under the direct jurisdiction of a state or municipal authority. ESUs’ operations are often supported by a Canine (K-9) response capability and members often respond to incidents involving dangerous animals and reptiles. In some jurisdictions, ESU members may provide medical support and team member rescue during tactical operations and sometimes staff a dedicated ambulance.

Atlantic Signal is based out of Topeka, KS where they develop, design, manufacture and sell tactical communications and accessories. The company started in 1989 with a focus on tactical law enforcement. Today, thirty-one years later, the company’s clients include Customs and Border Patrol, Naval Special Warfare, LAPD, ATF, MARSOC, DEA, US Coast Guard, US Secret Service among thousands of military and law enforcement clients around the world.

atlanticsignal.com

National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Honors U.S. Military Teams for Excellence in Foodservice Operations

Monday, August 17th, 2020

WASHINGTON, DC – August 14, 2020 –  The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) announced today that it will honor the winners of this year’s Military Foodservice Awards with a Facebook Live virtual event presented by Computrition on Wednesday, September 16th at 1800 EDT (6 p.m. EDT). The Virtual Military Foodservice Awards (VMFA) is a key part of the NRAEF’s commitment to help members of the military, military spouses and veterans through training and post-duty opportunities.

This year’s keynote speaker is Leon Panetta, Former Director of the CIA and Former U.S. Secretary of Defense and Chairman of The Panetta Institute for Public Policy. During the live event, individuals and teams will be honored for their commitment to foodservice excellence in management effectiveness, force readiness support, food quality, employee and customer relations, resource conservation, training and safety awareness.

“We are honored welcome our U.S. service members and veterans into the restaurant industry each year,” said Rob Gifford, president of the NRAEF. “Typically, we celebrate the best of the best in military foodservice during the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago, which was canceled this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While we miss hosting them in person we are just as excited to cheer them on virtually.”

Winners for these prestigious awards are chosen by distinguished judges from the NRAEF, the National Restaurant Association and the Society for Foodservice and Hospitality Management – judges who travel annually with military foodservice experts to installations around the globe to evaluate foodservice operations.

“As an executive for Sodexo, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation’s largest sponsor of military foodservice programming, and a member of the NRAEF Board of Trustees, I am in a unique position to see firsthand the tremendous impact the organization has on military foodservice professionals. I also served as a judge for this year’s award program, which gave me an even deeper appreciation for the talented service men and women being honored,” said Brett Ladd, CEO, Sodexo Government, North America. “I commend all military foodservice professionals for their unwavering dedication to both their country and their fellow service members and I congratulate those teams being recognized with Military Foodservice Awards. You are the best of the best and you make us proud!”
  
Sponsors of the Military Foodservice awards include Sodexo, Ecolab, Hormel, HMSHost Foundation, Computrition, Aramark, Sysco, BJ’s Restaurant, Butterball, Seaboard, PenFed Credit Union, SHFM Foundation, Sack Family Foundation, Hobart and Trinchero Family Estates.

For more information and to sign up for the virtual event, visit the NRAEF’s Facebook page.

Viridian Weapon Technologies Kicks off Marketing Partnership with REAL AVID

Monday, August 17th, 2020

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – August 13, 2020 – Viridian Weapon Technologies is pleased to announce a marketing partnership with the firearm accessory and tool experts REAL AVID. The two companies will combine forces to give consumers and retailers exciting, make-sense packages and special offers.

REAL AVID, the leader in DIY for Guns®, continues to expand on its impressive line of cleaning tools, bench tools and multi-tools that make working on guns easier, quicker and more precise. REAL AVID offers model and platform-specific tools that reflect a deep understanding and passion for firearms.  

“REAL AVID offers high quality, gun-specific tools and accessories,” said Brian Hedeen, President and CEO at Viridian. “The brand and product line is chock full of specialized offerings for designated models and categories of firearms. We take a similar approach at Viridian. This shared focus on improving firearm performance is an exciting cornerstone of this partnership. We can’t wait to get some special offers out to our customers and consumers.”

Like REAL AVID, 2020 has been a busy year for Viridian. Several key products have been introduced—including an all-new Green Laser lineup in the E-Series and grip lasers for North American Arms’ .22 Mag revolvers. Viridian’s latest innovation is the HS1—the world’s first hand stop laser.

“Viridian makes great products and has some excellent partnerships in the industry,” said Chief Innovation Officer Howard Tripp. “We love Viridian’s ability to generate new products that people want and the team’s ability to work with so many top companies—often before anyone else is even aware that they are coming. I’m excited for our customers and consumers because there are going to be some great offers that come out of this partnership.”

Customers and consumers will receive more information on this partnership—including great initial offers and promotions—in the near future. Fans and followers should stay tuned to Viridian or REAL AVID’s social media channels and websites for the latest.

More information on Viridian can be found here.  

BCB Ration Heating Kits Now In Production

Monday, August 17th, 2020

Survival equipment manufacturers, BCB International Ltd, have launched the production of their ration pack heating kits at their Cardiff Headquarters.

The new bespoke production line is the result of a significant investment. BCB’s heating kits are designed to be used with and go inside Military and Humanitarian Aid ration packs.

The compact ration kits include BCB’s FireDragon eco-friendy and non-toxic fuel. The 7g fuel capsules are made from aluminium which means they can double as a cooker by simply peeling the lid off and lighting the eco-friendly fuel. The fuel capsules will heat 300ml of water from 10°C to 55°C in under 5 minutes.

The capsules are supplied with an ingeniously designed folding stove. The stove is equipped with adjustable cup support wings and can withstand multiple folds and unfolds.

The contents of a standard BCB Ration Heating kit are:

1 x Folding Stove
1 x Gripping lever
6 x FireDragon Fuel tablets
1 x refuse bag
1 x book of matches (20 matches)
6 x water purifying tablets
3 x toothpicks

www.bcbin.com

Green Light for IWA 2021 – Preparations on Target

Monday, August 17th, 2020

Sophisticated hygiene concept facilitates re-opening

Good registration numbers seven months before the event

All eyes are on the future and so far, more than 900 companies have already signed up to participate. The sector will gather in Exhibition Centre Nuremberg from 12 to 15 March 2021. A detailed hygiene concept offers exhibitors and visitors a safe and successful trade fair attendance.

“From 1 September 2020, it will be admissible for trade fairs and congresses to be held in Bavaria. The basis for this development is the Bavarian government’s hygiene concept. The implementation of this concept will provide the underlying conditions to host a safe IWA OutdoorClassics 2021 here in Nuremberg,” says Petra Wolf from the NürnbergMesse management board. She continues: “NürnbergMesse is well prepared. Stricter hygiene standards are, as the name says, standards. Thanks to the ample space available at the exhibition centre we are planning to make the aisles wider to allow social distancing in the aisles as well. We are offering our exhibitors and visitors a separate catering hall, separate meeting facilities for exhibitors to allow them to conduct meetings away from their own stand in the event of bottlenecks at their own stand area. In addition, our ventilation concept ensures that the air in all halls is always fresh. We completely replace the entire volume of air several times an hour and do not use treated recirculated air.”

The Bavarian government’s hygiene concept stipulates that exhibitors are obliged to record the contact details of their interlocutors separately (in the case of discussions where face masks are not worn). NürnbergMesse is providing technical support to exhibitors in this context by making the lead tracking system “LeadSuccess” available. Contactless payment, which we have become used to meanwhile in our everyday lives, will be available in all areas (catering, kiosks, parking zones) and is another component of the hygiene concept.

NürnbergMesse has produced a separate hygiene concept for exhibitors and their stand design:

www.iwa.info/hygieneconcept

The IWA Event Team is on hand with expert advice in the event of any questions regarding implementation.

For information on the hygiene concept and protective measures for visitors and exhibitors please go to:

www.iwa.info/protective-measures

Exhibitor registration numbers inspire confidence

The excellent registration numbers seven months ahead of the event are testimony to the huge commitment the sector is making to its very own IWA OutdoorClassics: “The cancellation of IWA 2020 caught us all off guard. As a result, we are all even more delighted that more than 900 exhibitors have already committed to attending IWA 2021. This sends us a strong message about how much the sector wants to meet up and interact again and how important and valuable the annual gathering is for it. And we intend to do our utmost to bring this about! The event team is working extremely hard with passion and enthusiasm on the preparations for March 2021. Even if the coronavirus crisis is still not over by the beginning of next year, as things stand today the IWA will take place! Thanks to our hygiene concept we are ideally equipped to carry out an IWA trade fair even under the conditions imposed by the coronavirus. We are confident that we can offer all our customers a safe and successful event of the kind you know and love from your previous IWA industry gatherings! And if infection rates continue to decline, we also envisage the possibility of relaxing the obligatory mask wearing,” says Rebecca Schönfelder, Exhibition Director, IWA OutdoorClassics.

Trade visitors can therefore already look forward again to the numerous exhibits from traditional gunsmiths and cutlers with their centuries of history, as well as cutting-edge production technology for high-precision sporting firearms and sights. “The IWA will once again become the exciting experience and networking hub that we have all missed this year! We are looking forward to bringing the sector together again at IWA 2021,” says Schönfelder.

Trade visitors only

The IWA OutdoorClassics is organised by NürnbergMesse and sponsored by VDB (Association of German Gunsmiths and Gun Traders) and JSM (German Firearms and Ammunition Manufacturers Association). This event is exclusively for trade visitors. Children and young people under 18 years of age are not allowed to attend. Tickets for the IWA OutdoorClassics will be issued only to visitors from appropriate specialist suppliers, official agencies and security companies on presentation of relevant credentials.

The next IWA OutdoorClassics will take place from 12 to 15 March 2021.

Champion Awards 2020 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships

Sunday, August 16th, 2020

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – August 5, 2020 – Champion Traps & Targets, maker of interactive and challenging target systems and trusted eye and ear protection, has awarded 2020 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships to two 4-H student ambassadors: Cecelia Ossi of New Jersey and Thomas Singleton of Louisiana.

The scholarship program was created to honor legendary exhibition shooter Tom Knapp, who passed away in April 2013. Champion teamed with the National 4-H Shooting Sports Committee to create the Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarship in his name. Knapp was a long-time ambassador for both Champion and Federal Premium Ammunition, and was included in licensed products from Champion. With the support of Knapp’s wife, Colleen, Champion extended his licensed products program to fund an endowed scholarship that awards $2,500 each to two National 4-H Ambassadors per year.

“Federal and Champion Targets have been long-time supporters of the National 4-H Shooting Sports and seeing the bright future of the next generation of shooting sports enthusiasts is always a highlight,” said Jason Slinkard, Director of Shooting Accessories for Vista Outdoor. “These applicants for the Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarship will continue to represent the shooting sports industry, sharing a powerful message of leadership and new life skills as they head off to college.”

“Cecelia and Thomas are true leaders in the youth shooting sports arena and Federal is proud of their accomplishments with the National 4-H Shooting Sports Ambassador program,” added Jon Zinnel, Conservation and Youth Shooting Sports Program Manager for Federal and CCI Ammunition. “Seeing leaders graduating from the 4-H Ambassador Training reinforces the fact that our industry is strong and in good hands that are building future generations of shooting sports enthusiasts.”

Applicants for the scholarship are required to be 4-H Shooting Sports Ambassadors with a 3.0 or higher GPA, and enrolled in an accredited college or university.

www.championtarget.com