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Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

Chumash Capital Investments, LLC Acquires Azimuth Technology, LLC

Wednesday, September 9th, 2020

Chumash Capital Investments, LLC (“CCI”) announced today that it has acquired Azimuth Technology, LLC (“Azimuth”) from LongueVue Capital and Clavis Capital Partners. The transaction closed on August 31, 2020. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Azimuth is a premier manufacturer of tight-tolerance firearms components, with a focus on perfecting the industry’s most challenging parts, including handgun slides, handgun barrels and bolt carrier groups, for a diverse base of OEM and aftermarket customers. Through proprietary manufacturing techniques perfected by drawing on extensive experience in the medical device industry, Azimuth has developed a highly efficient production process that delivers exceptional product quality with absolute repeatability. Azimuth is headquartered in Naples, Florida.

LongueVue Capital is a New Orleans-based private equity firm that focuses on providing human capital, financial capital and a skill set built upon a successful 20-year track record of partnering with entrepreneurs and management teams to drive value creation in middle market companies. The firm’s opportunistic investment strategy and creative deal structures provide the flexibility to partner with attractive businesses across a variety of industries and situations.

Clavis Capital Partners is a private investment firm in Dallas, Texas with deep experience in investing in, operating and growing U.S.-based industrial businesses. The firm provides flexible capital to make control investments in a broad range of strategically viable but capital-constrained, industrial-oriented companies.

Chumash Capital Investments, LLC, a wholly owned investment entity of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, directs economic development investments for the Chumash Tribe. It is capitalized to provide for acquisitions of companies and other opportunities that complement the growth strategy for the tribe. CCI continues to build economic security for its tribal members and future generations by maintaining and expanding a portfolio of sophisticated enterprises.

“The Azimuth team is thrilled to partner with the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians as we embark on our next phase of growth in the firearms and defense industry,” said Azimuth’s CEO, Len Zaiser IV. “CCI’s acquisition of Azimuth provides a major opportunity to target government and foreign military opportunities while continuing to serve our customers with leading quality, speed and precision.”

John Elliott, CEO of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, stated, “We are very excited to welcome Azimuth into the Chumash Capital Investments portfolio. This acquisition supports our goal of ensuring long-term economic stability for the Chumash Tribe while offering an attractive counterbalance to CCI’s existing hospitality and leisure-focused investments. We believe Azimuth is primed for continued rapid growth, and we look forward to partnering with the Company’s outstanding management team to help Azimuth reach its full potential.”

Houlihan Lokey acted as exclusive financial advisor to Azimuth, and Norton Rose Fulbright acted as legal counsel to Azimuth. Horizon Business Advisors, LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to CCI, and Holland & Knight acted as legal counsel to CCI. Bell Nunnally & Martin LLP served as legal counsel to CCI with respect to transaction financing matters. 

ATLANTIC SIGNAL Receives Second Consecutive Multi-Year / Multi-Million Dollar Nationwide FBI Tactical Communications Contract for Special Operations Units and Hostage Rescue Team

Wednesday, September 9th, 2020

Atlantic Signal has been awarded its second consecutive multi-year contract to supply tactical communication equipment to both the FBI Special Operations Units (SOU) around the country as well as the Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) located in Virginia.

Having been awarded its initial nationwide FBI tactical communications contract in 2015, Atlantic Signal was challenged in 2019 with developing the next generation of tactical communications to meet a very different set of expectations.

To address an ever-changing radio landscape, the company developed a new multi-application, programmable push-to-talk that can be set up and customized for each individual operator’s specific preferences. The PTT, known as ‘THE SHIELD Push-to-Talk’, allows the Bureau to operate multiple radio platforms, ICS systems, smart phones, chat programs along with cross- banding capabilities. Additionally, custom plug and play cable accessories were designed for ‘THE SHIELD PTT’ systems.

In an effort to save the Bureau key financial resources, the Bureau-specific ‘SHIELD PTT’ model was designed to be compatible with Atlantic Signal radio and accessory cables already being used in the field from the previous 5 year contract purchases.

In addition to ‘THE SHIELD PTT’, Atlantic Signal co-developed an in-the-ear communication system known simply as ‘THE SHIELD’. While other two-way radio, in-the-ear, tactical communication systems utilize transmit microphones in the ear that pass TX via a bone or air microphone located inside the ear, it was Atlantic Signal’s desire to provide a system that utilized a micro-thin, yet robust, noise canceling boom microphone that could be positioned on either the right or left side of user’s face. Further, rather than use high-priced, multiple sized, regularly replaced ear tips, Atlantic Signal is providing custom earmolds for every operator with a secondary back up included as well. This allows for an individualized custom fit with little to no ear fatigue or dislodging issues. While ‘THE SHIELD’ was designed to also allow for multi-sized, disposable ear tips, the Bureau chose the custom earmold model recommended by Atlantic Signal.

The ‘SHIELD PTT’ was designed to allow the Bureau to ‘launch’ multiple comms systems from a single PTT model – thus, in addition to ‘THE SHIELD’ in-the-ear communication system, the Bureau selected  Atlantic Signal’s 3M/Peltor exclusive ComTac VI headset featuring the all new NIB feature.  The ComTac VI offers a new way to adjust the auditory settings of the headset for each mission. Traditionally, a headset has a set frequency response, and the operator can only increase or decrease the volume. The MAP function provides new advanced ambient listening modes that allow access to a variety of gain settings, but with frequency shaping, to enhance auditory performance in five conditions. The MAP Profiles have been designed with a variety of combat and combat support operations in mind.

NIB enables short-range, headset-to-headset communication in high noise environments, without the use of an external communications radio. The NIB function allows for 4 team members to speak simultaneously, and over 60 people, within a 10 – meter radius, to listen at any given time. Audio transmit is activated by either a voice activated switch (VOX) for hands free operations or by push-to-talk. The VOX switch is adaptive, meaning the threshold to activate will adjust automatically to the noise environment. To help reduce user burden, a tactile button has been added to the left ear cup that allows the user to easily turn on or off the function / and switch from VOX to PTT settings. The Bureau tested the ComTac VI extensively before choosing as there was a strong desire to utilize the NIB technology / capability as a wireless intercom – avoiding the expense and installation of additional hardware albeit it hardwired in a vehicle or aircraft or provided as a mounted/dismounted portable solution. The Bureau also selected the company’s wireless, gun mounted push-to-talk, Lo Vis R23 single and dual ear patrol kits and wired HAHO switch.

“It is an honor for our company to continue to provide two of America’s elite tactical units  communications equipment that meets their most stringent requirements. We began this relationship in the early 2010s when the Bureau’s previous supplier simply failed them. We spent nearly two years fine-tuning a multi-comms solution for them back then which resulted in a 5-year nationwide contract being awarded to our company in 2015. We are honored to receive our second consecutive 5-year contract after once again facing considerable competition during the selection phase,” stated Randall Hedrick, President and Managing General Member of Atlantic Signal.

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 the company’s clients include NYPD ESU, LAPD, ATF, USMS, CBP, NSW, MARSOC, USCG and the FBI among thousands of military and law enforcement clients around the world.

atlanticsignal.com

Team Wendy to be Acquired by Avon Rubber for $130 Million

Wednesday, September 9th, 2020

Transaction will create a global leader in head protection systems for the military and first responder markets

CLEVELAND, OH (Sept. 9, 2020) – Team Wendy, LLC (“Team Wendy”), a leading U.S. supplier of exceptional head protection systems for military, law enforcement, search and rescue, and adventure markets, today announced that it has entered into a definitive purchase agreement with Avon Rubber p.l.c. (“Avon”) (LON: AVON) under which its subsidiary Avon Protection Systems, Inc. (“Avon Protection”) will acquire Team Wendy for a cash consideration of $130 million USD on a cash-free and debt-free basis, subject to a normalized level of working capital (the “Acquisition”). Together, Avon Protection and Team Wendy will create a global leader in head protection systems for the military and first responder markets, following Avon’s acquisition of Ceradyne from 3M earlier this year.

The acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of Avon’s 2021 fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2020. It is subject to Avon shareholder approval, as well as U.S. regulatory approvals and satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

At the close of the transaction, Team Wendy will operate as a subsidiary of Avon from the Company’s current headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio. Team Wendy will continue to be led by its Chief Executive Officer Jose Rizo-Patron and its six department directors, who will all remain in their positions.

“Today’s announcement marks an exciting new chapter for Team Wendy that will usher in new opportunities for our employees, our customers and our business partners,” said Jose Rizo-Patron, chief executive officer of Team Wendy. “We remain focused on our vision to save lives by providing the best for anyone wearing a helmet. Avon’s management team shares our vision for the growth and expansion of Team Wendy and, as such, we believe they are the right long-term partner for our customers, employees and other stakeholders.”

Avon Protection is the recognized global leader in respiratory and ballistic protection for the world’s militaries and first responders, with more than 1,200 employees in 12 global locations, around 70 percent of whom are based in the U.S. Avon has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange and is a constituent of the FTSE 250 Index.

“The acquisition of Team Wendy is another important strategic step in the transformation of Avon Rubber into a leading provider of life critical personal protection systems,” said Paul McDonald, chief executive officer of Avon. “Team Wendy is a high-quality business with complementary liner and retention system technologies and established positions in Rest of World Military and First Responder helmet markets. Bringing Team Wendy into the same family with our existing Helmets & Armor business establishes Avon Protection as a global leader in Military and First Responder helmets, with an enhanced and broader product portfolio with stronger capabilities and routes to market.”

“We look forward to welcoming Team Wendy into the Avon family and working together to further develop head protection systems that prevent traumatic brain injury and to improve the performance and capability of our customers.”

“Team Wendy was founded to honor the legacy of my late daughter and improve head protection systems to prevent other families from experiencing a similar loss,” said Dan T. Moore, chairman, founder and principal owner of Team Wendy. “My family has always agreed that we would only ever sell Team Wendy if it was to the right partner. In meeting with the Avon leadership team and understanding their vision, it was clear to me that they would honor her legacy and help to drive continued and sustainable growth and innovation.”

Win a Mk13 Mod 7 USMC – Scout Sniper Association 2020 Raffle

Tuesday, September 8th, 2020

The USMC Scout Sniper Association raffle continues, but time is running out to get in on it. There are five (5) weeks remaining. Although the annual Gathering of Snipers (2020) was canceled, the raffle was not. That means you still have the opportunity to win an MK13 Mod 7 (the USMC variant of the SOCOM rifle) with all the accessories and accompanying prizes or a HogTooth knife. All pertinent firearm laws apply, of course.

MK13 Mod 7

In April 2018, the US Marine Corps announced it would field a USMC-specific version of SOCOM’s MK13 Mod 7 Sniper Rifle manufactured at NSWC Crane. While the M40A6 is being retained for use in training and as an alternate platform, the MK13 Mod 7 has operationally replaced the venerable M40 series rifles as the primary sniper rifle for the Corps. The M40 series saw service with the Corps in several variations starting in 1966. Scout Snipers are now carrying the MK13 Mod 7 in every clime and place, throughout the Global War on Terror and in other hot spots around the globe.

SSA Mk13 Prize Rifle

The rifle you could win in this giveaway was donated through the generosity of SSA Member Ryan Niederman and Friend of the SSA Jarret Guill. Components were carefully sourced to produce as authentic a clone of the military-issued firearm as is humanly possible, some manufactured on Marine Corps contract production runs. In addition, generous donations were made by the following industry partners to ensure an authentic build:

• Nightforce – Mil-Spec scope
• Geisselle Automatics – Mil-Spec trigger
• Surefire – Certificate for Mil-Spec suppressor
• LaRue Tactical – Mil-Spec QD scope mount
• MagPul Industries – Eight magazines
• Harris Engineering – Mil-Spec bipod
• VTAC – Mil-Spec sling

As the SSA explains,

“The lucky winner of this special, very complete rifle package will own a historic piece of the legacy built with the blood, sweat and tears of US Marine Corps Scout Snipers.”

Scout Sniper Association 2020 Prize Package (1st Prize)

This prize package has a retail value of over $12,000.00. FFL rules, transfer fees, and NFA tax stamp fees are the responsibility of the winner).

• RIFLE: Mil-Spec Stiller MK13 Bolt Action with RFID tag
• CHAMBER/CALIBER: .300 Winchester Magnum
• SCOPE: Mil-Spec Nightforce M571 ATACR 5-25 x 56 F1 with TReMoR3 Reticle and RFID tag
• SCOPE MOUNT: Mil-Spec LaRue Tactical LT840H-34-0 Quick-Detach SSDS Mount on an AI 20 MOA Picatinny Rail
• CHASSIS: Mil-Spec Accuracy International MK13 Mod 7 AICS with Folding Stock
• TRIGGER: Mil-Spec Geissele Automatics Super MK13 2-Stage Trigger, Non-adjustable, Set at 3.5 lbs
• BARREL: Mil-Spec Lilja 1:10 Twist, Stainless Steel, 25-inches
• FLASH HIDER: Mil-Spec Surefire 4-Prong FH762RC, 5/8-24 Thread
• SUPPRESSOR: Pre-Paid Certificate for Mil-Spec Surefire SOCOM762-RC DE Suppressor
• MAGAZINES: Eight Mil-Spec 5-Round MagPul PMAG 5 AC L Magnum and one factory AICS Magazine.
• BIPOD: Mil-Spec Harris Engineering BRMS Bipod
• SLING: Mil-Spec VTAC-Mk2-CT-UG Padded Nylon Sling
• CASE: Mil-Spec Pelican iM3300 Storm MK13 Mod 7 Deployment Case with Custom Cut Foam
• ACCESSORIES: Mil-Spec camo tool bag; Mil-Spec MK13 Mod 7 Multi-Tool; USMC-correct cleaning rods and brushes
• Built faithfully to NSWC Crane/USMC Military Specifications

USMC SSA 2020 Prize Package (2nd Prize)

The second prize in this raffle is a hand-crafted blade from HogTooth Knives. It was made by Matt Chase, a former Scout Sniper, to honor fellow snipers who paid the price for excellence. This is the first time one of these knives will be released to a raffle winner.

If you don’t wish to enter the raffle but do want to help out, or you would like to double down on your support for the Association, donate here.

USMC Scout Sniper Association

The United States Marine Corps Scout Sniper Association is a nonpartisan, nonprofit, tax-exempt, Veterans Organization under Section 501(c)(19) of the Internal Revenue Code (Federal Tax ID: 33-0887131).

Website: www.scoutsniper.org, Facebook: www.facebook.com/usmcssa, Instagram: www.instagram.com/usmc_scout_sniper_association

L3Harris Technologies Equips the US Army’s Second Unit with Enhanced Night Vision Goggle – Binocular

Tuesday, September 8th, 2020

Highlights:

• U.S. Army unit receives more than 1,000 L3Harris high-tech devices

• Continued collaboration with the U.S. Army to deliver a combat-ready solution for the soldier

• Technology integrates smart data directly into the google enhancing situational awareness

LONDONDERRY, N.H., Sept. 3, 2020 — L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX) has completed delivery of more than 1,000 combat-ready Enhanced Night Vision Goggle – Binocular (ENVG-B) systems to the U.S. Army. This delivery fully equips the Army’s second unit with next generation night vision technology that enhances the soldier’s ability to locate and engage threats and access common operating environment imagery, thus improving the soldier’s situational awareness, mobility and protection.

“The ENVG-B is designed to give soldiers unmatched capability on the battlefield and utilizes our high performance, white phosphor night vision tubes with a thermal channel, enabling a soldier to see and maneuver in zero and low-light situations,” said Lynn Bollengier, President, Integrated Vision Solutions, L3Harris. “Our L3Harris team is proud to continue our collaboration with the U.S. Army to deliver this game-changing, combat-ready system that meets the urgent operational needs of our close combat troops.”

This delivery is part of the initial order the company received under the $391 million ENVG-B Directed Requirement contract from the Army in 2018.

The ENVG-B delivers imagery and data from the battlefield directly to the soldier’s eye. The system includes a new, high-resolution display and an embedded soldier wireless personal area network, rapid target acquisition and augmented reality algorithms to interface with the Army’s Nett Warrior. The complete system will interface with the Army’s family of weapon sights, while enhancing interoperability and data sharing.

SIG SAUER Introduces Limited Edition P220 LEGION CARRY SAO to LEGION Series Line-Up

Tuesday, September 8th, 2020

NEWINGTON, N.H., (September 8, 2020) – SIG SAUER, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of the P220 LEGION CARRY SAO (.45 cal) to the exclusive SIG SAUER LEGION Series product line of pistols.

“The introduction of the P220 LEGION CARRY SAO is both a unique and exclusive opportunity and brings several firsts to the market for our LEGION Series pistols. Most notably this is the first introduction of both a carry size pistol and the availability of a .45 caliber for a LEGION Series pistol,” said Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer, and Executive Vice President, SIG SAUER, Inc. “Additionally, this is a rare opportunity to either become a member of the exclusive SIG SAUER LEGION or expand your collection as a current LEGION member, due to the fact that this is a limited run pistol.”

The SIG SAUER P220 LEGION CARRY SAO is a carry-size .45 caliber, hammer-fired pistol, featuring a Legion Gray stainless steel slide and frame, with X-RAY3 Day/Night Sights, single action only flat trigger, and ambidextrous manual safety. LEGION enhancements include a solid steel guide rod, enhanced checkering on the front strap and under the trigger guard, front cocking serrations for easy slide operations, black G-10 checkered grips with LEGION medallion inset on the grips, LEGION Chevron engraved on the slide, and includes three (3) 8-round magazines.

P220 LEGION CARRY SAO Specs:

Overall Length: 7.1 in.
Overall Height: 5.5 in.
Overall Width: 1.5 in.
Barrel Length: 3.9 in.
Sight Radius: 5.7 in.
Weight (incl. magazine): 30.4 oz.

By registering a SIG SAUER LEGION Series pistol owners become a part of the SIG SAUER LEGION. This includes members-only access to free gear and premium merchandise, in addition to exclusive LEGION Member-only communications and events. To learn more about the SIG SAUER LEGION visit sigsauer.com.

Contact your local SIG SAUER retailer for the availability of this limited run SIG SAUER P220 LEGION CARRY SAO. Complete product specs and information for the P220 LEGION CARRY SAO are available at sigsauer.com.

Announcing the XSC Family of Micro-Compact Handgun Weaponlights from SureFire

Tuesday, September 8th, 2020

Fountain Valley, CA—SureFire, LLC, manufacturer of the world’s finest—and most innovative—illumination tools and tactical products, is proud to announce the release of the all-new XSC family of micro-compact handgun weaponlights.

We all know violent crime happens at night, and yet a premium-grade weaponlight for the best concealment guns on the market didn’t exist. Until now. Extremely compact and virtually indestructible, the new rechargeable SureFire XSC family delivers intense white light, allowing you to face the dark with confidence. Its micro-footprint doesn’t hamper concealability, so you’ll have it with you when you need it most.

There are three models in the lineup, each precisely engineered and purpose-built for a seamless & secure fit to each host handgun. The XSC-A is made for the Glock 43X & 48 with accessory rail, the XSC-P365 is for the SIG SAUER P365 &amp P365 XL and the XSC-HELLCAT is for the Springfield Armory Hellcat line of handguns. Less than 2 inches long and weighing under 2 ounces, the XSC provides an immense force multiplier to each host handgun with no compromise in concealability.

Intuitive, ambidextrous switching provides ease of momentary-or constant-on activation with one or two hands. The XSC’s premium LED delivers 350 lumens of intense white light via a parabolic reflector, creating a concentrated hot-spot with significant throw and surrounding spill. Made from rugged aerospace aluminum, the body is Mil-Spec hard anodized for scratch and corrosion resistance. The XSC is gasket sealed for weatherproof and waterproof reliability, and it is IPX7-rated.

The XSC is rechargeable via a quick-detach lithium polymer battery, and can be changed without removing the XSC from the host pistol. The battery charger is included with purchase, and it is capable of charging two batteries simultaneously. Each battery features a LED fuel gauge that displays charge level with the press of a button. If you’re serious about personal protection, there’s no excuse. The XSC is your only option.

Learn more: www.surefire.com/products/illumination/weapon-lights/xsc-weaponlight

SCUBAPRO Sunday – Global Positioning System (GPS)

Sunday, September 6th, 2020

In 1959, the Navy built the first real satellite navigation system, which was called TRANSIT. The system was designed to locate submarines and started out with six satellites and eventually grew to ten. The subs often had to wait hours to receive signals from the satellites, but the model set the stage for accurate GPS with continuous signaling from satellites in space. The GPS project was launched in the United States by the Military in 1973 to overcome previous navigation systems’ limitations, integrating ideas from several predecessors, including classified engineering design studies from the 1960s.

In 1983 shortly after the Russians shot down Korean Air flight 007 after it wandered off course into Soviet airspace over the Kamchatka Peninsula, president Reagan offered to let all civilian commercial aircraft use the GPS (once it was completed) to improve navigation and air safety.

The original system used 24 satellites. It was initially developed for use by the United States military and became fully operational in 1995. When I first joined the Military in the late ’80s, the first GPS I used was the AN/PSN-8; you had to put it on an Alice pack frame and carry it by itself like it was a radio. Because it basically was the size of one. We would use a cargo strap to secure it to the back of the bolster seats on the RHIBS. It was used until after the 1st Gulf War. Later it was replaced by the AN/PSN-11 Precision Lightweight GPS Receiver (PLGR, “plugger”) that was used during the invasion of Somalia.

The network now consists of about 30 satellites orbiting the Earth at an altitude of 20,000 km. Not all 30 are in use; some are set aside as spears.

Since 1993, the US Air Force has made its Global Positioning System (GPS) available to the world, and ever since then, that technology has found its way into our everyday lives. Once it has information on how far away at least three to four satellites are, your GPS receiver can pinpoint your location thru trilateration (it also uses cell towers if close enough). The system is made up of three parts: satellites, ground stations, and receivers. Satellites act like the stars in constellations—we know where they are supposed to be at any given time. The ground stations use radar to make sure that you are where you think you are. The receiver is continuously listening for a signal from satellites. Just about everything, today can tell you your position on the Earth from your phone to your watch and dive computers. 

I remember when the first GPS watches came out, you had to make sure it had a clear view of the sky. You would also have to make sure the older military GPS’s had the most updated crypto in them, or it didn’t work and had to carry dead weight with you. Today there are a lot of options for handheld or even dive mask mounted. The SCUBAPRO Galileo HUD Pro can hold up to 31 GPS waypoints and a full dive computer. It will give you a compass heading, tell you the time and distance to your target. The one bad thing about all the civilian GPS is if there ever is a full out war, they will be the first things turned off. So, don’t forget the basics of time, speed, and distance.  

With two new satellites in orbit and eight more in various stages of development, the latest, GPS III, is already being built. The next generation of GPS should go fully operational around 2023.

The first GPS III satellite launched by Lockheed Martin cost an estimated $529 million to build. The satellite’s outstanding longevity will offset some of this upfront cost. Unlike the early GPS satellites, which have a design life of 7.5 years, the new GPS III satellites will last 15 years — twice as long as the oldest satellites in orbit and 25 percent longer than the latest satellites in the GPS fleet. The new GPS III satellite system is designed to adapt to new technology, and its mission objectives change. The next generation of GPS will be up to 3 times more accurate than existing GPS technology. That means the 5 to 10-meter accuracy you see now with current GPS technology will be more like 1 to 3 meters.

With all these improvements aimed at the civilian side of things, it’s easy to forget that GPS is first and foremost a military technology. There will be new command centers capable of controlling the existing GPS satellite and the new GPS III satellites from the ground. The next generation of GPS is expected to be available by 2022-2023.