Archive for the ‘USMC’ Category
Happy Birthday Marines!
Sunday, November 10th, 2024U.S. Marine Corps Initiates Full-Rate Production for ACV-30
Friday, November 8th, 2024ALEXANDRIA, Va. – November 07, 2024 – Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) has received a contract from the U.S. Marine Corps for long lead items, signaling the start of full-rate production for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle 30mm program (ACV-30). The items included in the $51 million contract through PEO Land Systems Program Manager Advanced Amphibious Assault (PM AAA) are subcomponents specific to the 30mm remote turret, manufactured by KONGSBERG in Johnstown, Penn.
“The ACV-30 provides a significant increase in lethality for dismounted Marines. PM AAA is looking forward to a longstanding partnership with Kongsberg Defence through this direct contract between the two organizations. The opportunities gained will ensure Marines have what they need to support Marine Corps warfighting needs,” said Col Tim Hough, Program Manager for Advanced Amphibious Assault at PEO Land Systems.
ACV-30 is one of four variants in the next-generation ACV family of vehicles designed, developed and built by BAE Systems, providing the U.S. Marine Corps with ship to shore capability in what will be a full replacement of the Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAV). The ACV-30 variant mounts a stabilized, remotely operated Medium Caliber Turret (MCT-30) manufactured by KONGSBERG that provides the lethality and protection Marines need while leaving ample room for troop capacity and payload while keeping the crew under armor. The remote turret eliminates the space requirement of legacy turreted cannon systems and provides more room to transport troops or mission essential equipment, and reduces weight for better mobility.
“This agreement is an important milestone for the U.S. Marine Corps ACV-30 program, enabling rapid deliveries when full-rate production starts. We are pleased that US Marine Corp has selected the highly advanced 30mm PROTECTOR remote turret system from KONGSBERG in the program,” said Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.
The U.S. Marine Corps is continuing to grow its relationship with the PROTECTOR family of remote weapon systems and remote turrets from Kongsberg, providing streamlined training and sustainment as well as wireless fire control and future technology and effector integration.
The $51m contract is part of a framework agreement (“undefinitized contract action”) worth up to $329m announced on 4 November.
FirstSpear Friday Focus: Veterans Day & USMC Birthday
Friday, November 8th, 2024Today, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the courageous men and women who have served our nation, whether in times of war or peace. We honor their bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering resolve in the face of challenges. Their selflessness and dedication to a cause greater than themselves inspire us every day. To all veterans who have served our country, we offer our deepest thanks—your contributions to our nation will always be remembered.
At FirstSpear, we’re especially connected to the sacrifices veterans make, as many of our team members are veterans themselves who have served with honor. We are incredibly proud of their service and deeply appreciate the value they bring to our company.
We also want to wish happy 249th birthday to the United States Marine Corps.
Solicitation for Qualified Marines to Lateral Move (LATMOVE) into the Reconnaissance Primary Military Occupational Specialty (PMOS) 0321
Thursday, October 31st, 2024
R 301506Z OCT 24
MARADMIN 524/24
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC MRA MM//
SUBJ/SOLICITATION FOR QUALIFIED MARINES TO LATERAL MOVE (LATMOVE) INTO THE RECONNAISSANCE PRIMARY MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY (PMOS) 0321//
REF/A/MSIGD: DOC/CMC/TECOM/20240207//
REF/B/MSIGD: DOC/CMC/RECONNAISSANCE TRAINING COMMAND SCREENING
CHECKLIST VER 4/20191203//
REF/C/MSIGD: MSG/CMC/MPP/092051ZOCT24//
NARR/REF (A) IS NAVMC 1200.1K, MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES MANUAL. REF (B) IS THE RECONNAISSANCE TRAINING & ASSESSMENT PROGRAM (RTAP) AND BASIC RECONNAISSANCE COURSE (BRC) COMMAND SCREENING CHECKLIST. REF (C) IS MARADMIN 483/24, FISCAL YEAR 2025 SELECTIVE
RETENTION BONUS PROGRAM AND FISCAL YEAR 2025 BROKEN SERVICE SELECTIVE RETENTION BONUS PROGRAM.//
POC/S.UZIEL/LTCOL/POF RECONNAISSANCE OCCUPATIONAL FIELD MANAGER/TEL: 703-692-4494/STEVEN.UZIEL@USMC.MIL//
POC/M. EATON/MGYSGT/POF RECONNAISSANCE MOS SPECIALIST/TEL: 703-692-4305/MICKEY.EATON@USMC.MIL//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1. Purpose. This MARADMIN solicits qualified Marines to apply for LATMOVE into the 0321 PMOS during Fiscal Year 2025. Manpower and Reserve Affairs (M&RA) has categorized the 0321 PMOS as a critical career force skill shortage. The demand for qualified Marines to LATMOVE to this PMOS will remain high for the foreseeable future.
2. Background. Marine Reconnaissance Battalions and Force Reconnaissance Companies are specialized units trained to conduct multi-domain reconnaissance, surveillance, and specialized limited scale raids in support of the Ground Combat Element, Marine Air Ground Task Force, or Joint Task Force. They are responsible for gathering and reporting information about the enemy, terrain, and
weather conditions in contested maritime environments as part of an integrated naval campaign.
2.a. Reconnaissance Marines represent the epitome of physical fitness and mental aptitude and are part of a highly trained force that is critical to the Marine Corps’ mission against
global threats. They must possess a range of skills unique to reconnaissance formations and thrive in politically sensitive or geographically denied operational environments. They must have strong communication skills and be able to operate independently or as part of a small team under austere circumstances.
2.b. Reconnaissance Marines undergo extensive training in amphibious reconnaissance, combat diving, parachuting, sensor operation, and advanced combat marksmanship. They may also receive qualifications as snipers, Army Rangers, explosive breachers, additional Joint Terminal Attack Controllers, and advanced Survival,
Evasion, Resistance, and Escape specialists.
2.c. Reconnaissance Marines serve in both the Active and Reserve Components (RC) and may be assigned to a variety of units across the Fleet Marine Force, Supporting Establishment, and external Special Missions Units.
2.d. Reconnaissance LATMOVE applicants must meet the following
criteria:
2.d.1. Must be a U.S. citizen.
2.d.2. Must be a volunteer.
2.d.3. No derogatory page 11 entries within the last 12 months.
2.d.4. No NJPs within the last 12 months and with no more than one NJP during the current contract.
2.d.5. No courts martial convictions.
2.d.6. Security requirement: must have minimum interim secret security clearance based on National Agency Check, Law Enforcement
and Credit Check.
2.d.7. Must possess a minimum General Technical score of 105 or a minimum Clerical score of 105.
2.d.8. Marines must possess a Water Survival-Intermediate, water survival qualification to enter RTAP.
2.d.9. Must possess a Water Survival-Advanced, water survival qualification to enter BRC.
2.d.10. Must obtain a passing score in all following land and aquatic events during RTAP:
2.d.10.a. Max set pullups–min 8/target reps 15+ 2:00 minute rest.
2.d.10.b. Max set crunches–min 75/target reps 85+ 2:00 minute rest.
2.d.10.c. Max set pushups–min 42/target reps 60+ 10:00 minute rest.
2.d.10.d. 3-mile run–min 22:30/target 19:30-10:00 minute rest.
2.d.10.e. Obstacle course x2–min 8:00.
2.d.10.f. 500-meter swim-15 minutes (side or breaststroke, continuous swim).
2.d.10.g. 25-meter underwater swim.
2.d.10.h. Rifle retrieval.
2.d.10.i. 25-meter rifle tow.
2.d.11. Marines must attain passing scores in all elements of the Reconnaissance Physical Assessment Test and Reconnaissance Aquatic
Competency Test during separate training evolutions and will be required to attain passing scores to graduate BRC.
2.d.12. Must be medically qualified to perform jump and combatant dive operations. LATMOVE enlisted Marines must have completed a
Naval Special Warfare/Special Operations (NSW/SO) physical prior to reporting to BRC. This includes a report of medical history (DD form 2807-1) and a report of requested MOS change
(DD form 2808). The completed NSW/SO physical must be reviewed and countersigned by an Undersea Medical Officer.
2.e. Reconnaissance Marines serve a critical role within the RC.
To be eligible for the 0321 PMOS in the RC, Marines must meet the following criteria:
2.e.1. Selected Marine Corps Reserve (SMCR). Marines must affiliate with or be a current member of a SMCR Unit.
2.e.2. Individual Mobilization Augmentee. Marines must be affiliated with a SMCR unit.
2.e.3. Individual Ready Reserve. Marines must be discharged from the Active Component or Selected Reserve under honorable conditions.
2.e.4. Direct Affiliation Program (DAP). Active Component or Active Reserve Marines can apply for LATMOVE within the RC via the DAP.
They must be released under honorable conditions.
2.e.5. RC Marines must sign a Statement of Understanding accepting the requirements and conduct of Permanent Change of Station (PCS)
orders to attend reconnaissance entry level training.
2.e.6. Marines approved for LATMOVE into the 0321 PMOS may rate a Selective Retention Bonus (SRB). For example, per reference (c), a
qualified Zone A Sergeant who agrees to reenlist in conjunction with a lateral move will qualify for both the $40,000 72-month lateral move kicker and the $57,000 PMOS bonus, totaling $97,750, once they have gained the 0321 PMOS.
3. Execution. Interested Marines are encouraged to contact the Reconnaissance Recruiter at 910-449-2071/keith.mycek@usmc.mil
(School of Infantry – East) or 760-763-9117/brett.bowman@usmc.mil (School of Infantry – West). Additional details can be found at:
https://www.2ndmardiv.marines.mil/talent-management/Recon-Lateral-Move/. Personnel
seeking to initiate the LATMOVE process should contact their Career Planner or Prior Service Recruiter. Eligible Marines must complete reference (b), which includes screening and suitability assessment information. recon_recruiting@usmc.mil. Personnel seeking
to initiate the LATMOVE process should contact their Career Planner or Prior Service Recruiter. Eligible Marines must complete reference (b), which includes screening and suitability assessment information.
3.a. Marines approved for LATMOVE by M&RA will execute PCS or Permanent Change of Assignment orders to Reconnaissance Training
Company, School of Infantry-West, Camp Pendleton, CA.
3.b. This MARADMIN is applicable to the Total Force.
3.c. Commanders and Senior Enlisted Leaders are encouraged to disseminate the information contained in this MARADMIN to all hands.
4. Direct all questions to MARADMIN POCs.
5. Release authorized by MajGen Ryan S. Rideout, Director of Manpower Management Division, Headquarters Marine Corps, Manpower
and Reserve Affairs.//
Date Signed: 10/30/2024 | MARADMINS Number: 524/24
Interested Marines visit www.2ndmardiv.marines.mil/Talent-Management/Recon-Lateral-Move for more info.
Aimpoint Awarded New Contract for U.S. Marine Corps Fire Control Systems
Wednesday, October 30th, 2024Manassas, Virginia – Aimpoint, the originator and worldwide leader in reflex sighting technology, has been awarded a new contract to supply AIMPOINT® FCS™ 14 Fire Control Systems to the U.S. Marine Corps. The system will be deployed as the primary Fire Control on the M3A1 Multi-Role Anti-Armor Anti-Personnel Weapons System (MAAWS) lightweight 84mm Carl-Gustaf produced by SAAB Dynamics.
The Aimpoint FCS 14 is the next generation of Fire Control Systems (FCS) from Aimpoint for use on multiple weapon platforms providing increased accuracy resulting in impacts on target.
The FCS 14 is a direct view, Dynamic Universal Reflex Sight, which utilizes an integrated laser range finder and ballistic computer to give the gunner an aiming point corrected for range, type of munition, terrain angle, and environmental conditions. In addition to the 84mm Carl-Gustaf, the system can also be utilized on other weapons including the AT4, 40mm high velocity grenade launchers (Mk19, Mk47, and GMG), .50 caliber heavy machine guns (M2), and the M134D Minigun. The FCS 14 provides an extremely high probability of first round hits on both stationary and moving targets during day and night. Along with the ballistically compensated 2 MOA green dot, the FCS 14 provides an updated user interface for quick and easy use in a combat environment.
The FCS 14 can be used in bright daylight/dawn/dusk conditions, or in combination with a helmet mounted AN/PVS-14, AN/PVS-31, or similar for night or dawn/dusk conditions. Additionally, there is also a DSA (Dual Sensor Afocal) module, which is a removable thermal and day camera unit. The DSA is powered and controlled by the FCS.
“We are proud that the AIMPOINT Fire Control System continues to be the selected optic for the MAAWS weapon platform.” said Thane Smith, President at Aimpoint Inc. The FCS 14 with integrated thermal and day sensors enhances the ability to detect, identify and destroy battlefield threats.
Compatible with a litany of crew-served weapons, the FCS 14 provides commanders with flexibility and lethality while reducing training requirements over legacy sighting systems. Aimpoint is dedicated to producing the highest quality, most reliable weapon optics to increase the lethality and survivability of our service members.”
Aimpoint is the leading manufacturer and innovator of red dot sighting technology. For more information on the AIMPOINT FCS 14 or other products, visit: aimpoint.us/fcs-series.
MARSOC Ditching MultiCam and Going Back to MARPAT and OD 782 Gear
Saturday, October 12th, 2024In a directive issued in late September, the Commanding General of Marine Special Operations Command orders the cession of wear of MultiCam uniforms and equipment. Instead, MARSOC Marines and Sailors will wear FROG uniforms until the command can procure SOF Peculiar uniforms in MARPAT patterns. Additionally, they will no longer use field equipment in MultiCam but rather procure gear in OD Green.
This will cost millions of dollars after the decision was made to streamline SOF procurement to one colorway, the MultiCam pattern.
U.S. Marine Corps Purchases $5.3 Million in High-Bandwidth Networking Equipment from Persistent Systems
Thursday, September 19th, 2024Purchased mobile ad hoc networking (MANET) equipment will support U.S. Marine logistics in EUCOM Theater
September 18, 2024 – Persistent Systems, LLC (“Persistent”), a leader in mobile ad hoc networking (MANET), announced today a $5.3 million sale of MPU5 MANET devices, Rugged Display & Controllers (RDCs), and Integrated Sector Antennas to the U.S. Marine Corps in support of the 2nd Marine Logistics Group.
The sale of the MANET equipment, including C-Band and L-Band RF cards, follows a similar acquisition of S-Band RF cards by the Marines in January 2023 to advance their logistics networking capabilities in the EUCOM and CENTCOM regions.
“The Marine Corps is undergoing a force design and modernization effort to deal with near-peer competition,” said Luke Wood, Persistent Systems VP of Business Development, U.S. Navy/Marine Corps. “They are looking into reliable high-bandwidth commercial technologies to solve their operational requirements, and we’re supporting that campaign of learning, both at the headquarters and operating forces level.”
Purchase of the MPU5 provides the Marines with access to the Wave Relay® MANET algorithm for peer-to-peer sharing of voice, video, text, sensor, and GPS data. The MANET provides immediate network access and interoperability with other network-based platforms fielded by the Marine Corps and international partner forces.
All network data stored on the MPU5 is viewable on the RDC for increased situational awareness and command-and-control of unmanned systems. Additionally, rapidly mounted Integrated Sector Antennas (to poles, masts, or towers) extend the range of the MANET “bubble” created by the MPU5s.
“The MANET equipment will go to a few logistics battalions for vehicle-to-vehicle and dismounted security force communications,” said Wood. “The rest will be deployed as needed for advanced expeditionary bases, logistics hubs, and other logistics missions.”
Extended network range will allow Marines to share video more widely from previously disconnected EO/IR video cameras, unmanned aircraft systems, and explosive ordinance disposal robots.
“All this enables the Marines to make sense of the battlefield and coordinate against adversary platforms and formations,” he said.
Persistent will continue to support the service’s manned and unmanned ground combat vehicle efforts, as well as manned and unmanned maritime vessels.
Haley Strategic Partners Awarded Contract by USMC for Carl-Gustaf 84MM Recoilless Rifle Program
Thursday, September 19th, 2024
September 10, 2024 (Scottsdale, AZ) – Haley Strategic Partners is a premier global Defense Manufacturer specializing in trusted, innovative, high-quality safety and survivability products for military, first responders, federal agencies, and outdoor/consumer markets worldwide. The Company is honored to participate in outfitting the United States Marine Corps (USMC) with munitions packs and weapon system slings in support of the Carl-Gustaf®84MM Recoilless Rifle, Multi-Role Anti-Armor/Anti-Personnel Weapon System (MAAWS) indefinite-delivery / indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract (W15QKN18D0076).
Haley Strategic Partners was awarded the USMC contracts and began delivering in FY2024. The awards include Carl-Gustaf Packs (NSN: 1015-01-719-1642), Carl-Gustaf X Slings (NSN: 1015-01-718-2887), Carl-Gustaf Two-Point Slings (NSN: 1015-01-718-2871), Aimpoint FCS13RE Pouches (NSN: 1220-01-721-2885), and FlatPack Plus Packs (NSN: 8465-01-678-6204).
The Carl-Gustaf weapon system and munitions carriage solutions were developed in direct collaboration with SaaB and USMC professional end users utilizing the latest in rugged composite and nylon laminate materials to create truly innovative load carriage solutions increasing the efficacy of USMC infantry warfighters.
“We are honored to be able to support the USMC community on the Carl-Gustaf program, and to provide a true tactical advantage to those operators who depend on them,” said Travis Haley, CEO and founder of Haley Strategic. “By working closely with SaaB and the customer over the last couple of years, our applied research and development teams have kept the needs of the end-user at the forefront of their efforts every step of the way, ensuring that their needs were met. We are grateful for the opportunity to deliver these key solutions increasing the lethality and combat effectiveness of Carl-Gustaf fire teams”.
For sales information on Carl-Gustaf Packs, Carl-Gustaf Slings, and other innovative tactical equipment solutions from Haley Strategic Partners, please visit haleystrategic.com or connect with us at sales@haleystrategic.com.
