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Archive for the ‘weapons’ Category

GM Defense and Mistral Inc. Announce Strategic Collaboration to Enhance Tactical Capability

Tuesday, May 21st, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. — GM Defense, a subsidiary of General Motors, and Mistral Inc., a provider of high-performance, reliable and innovative solutions to U.S. defense and federal agencies, announced the integration of the innovative UVision and Mistral’s Hero-120 loitering munition with GM Defense’s light tactical utility vehicle. Combining GM Defense’s expertise in military mobility with Mistral and UVision’s loitering munition technology enables the companies to support the tactical needs of a modernized force.

The GM Defense utility concept vehicle is based on the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. The utility vehicle features a high percentage of commercial off the shelf parts, including Chevrolet Performance components to enhance off-road capabilities, and offers different seating configurations to meet customer requirements. The utility solution is designed with a cargo bed in the rear of the vehicle, ideal for housing Mistral’s and UVision’s Hero-120 solution, or to support command and control, electronic warfare, counter-unmanned aircraft systems, reconnaissance and logistics.

The Hero-120 is designed for engaging enemy combatants without exposing Soldiers to direct enemy fire. This loitering munition system is versatile in targeting, capable of engaging a variety of targets, including armored vehicles, enemy troops, field fortifications and urban structures. Its precision strike capability is specifically designed to maximize effectiveness while minimizing collateral damage.

“We’re seeing an increased need for light tactical wheeled vehicles that deliver agility, speed and lethality,” said John “JD” Johnson, vice president of Business Development for GM Defense. “Our collaboration with Mistral demonstrates the versatility of our utility concept vehicle and its ability to enhance the tactical capabilities of warfighters. With initial demonstrations successfully completed, we will continue to look for opportunities to showcase the value these integrated technologies deliver to defense customers.”

“This integration sets a new standard in military technology, providing the U.S. Army and allied forces with an unparalleled combination of mobility, precision and adaptability,” said Yoav Banai, vice president, Mistral. “Our collaboration with GM Defense reflects our combined commitment to advancing military capabilities and to evolving battlefield challenges.”

Key features:

• Maintainability: The utility vehicle is built for sustained operations in austere environments with a high percentage of commercial parts that may be obtained through GM’s existing global supply chain.

• Customization with Modular Kits: GM Defense offers diverse kits to enhance the concept vehicle’s capabilities, making it adaptable to meet a broad range of general purpose and special operations forces requirements.

• Multi-Canister Launcher – Expeditionary (MCL-E): The utility vehicle can house the Hero-120 MCL-E, enabling the operator to launch multiple munitions quickly and effectively.

• Enhanced Lethality: The integration of the MCL-E on the utility vehicle provides unmatched lethality for both mounted and dismounted Soldiers, enhancing their operational scope and effectiveness in diverse combat scenarios.

Marine Corps Set to Receive New Light Assault Weapon System

Tuesday, May 21st, 2024

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. — Marine Corps Systems Command is pleased to announce the acquisition of the M72 Light Assault Weapon Fire from Enclosure Munition. The M72 LAW Fire from Enclosure (FFE) is a compact, lightweight, single-shot weapon system.

It incorporates an improved launcher featuring an enhanced in-line trigger mechanism and improved sling design. The M72 FFE comprises two configurations: the M72A8 anti-armor and the M72A10 multi-purpose, anti-structure munition. The M72A8 contains a high-explosive charge warhead that improves armor penetration, while the M72A10 provides Marines with increased capability for eliminating structures.

The M72 FFE is designed to deliver versatility and reliability, enabling Marines to counter threats effectively in close-range combat. Its performance is optimized for urban environments, vehicles, and complex terrain, ensuring operational effectiveness in these challenging scenarios.

The M27A FFE variants will replace the current LAW weapon system capability. The new system
allows Marines to fire multiple shots daily from inside a room and has less flash and back blast than an M9 pistol. The reduced visibility increases the lethality and safety of Marines.
“This new capability removes the Marine from exposure to enemy engagement by introducing the FFE capability, said Mr. Scott Adams, Product Manager, Ammo.

“The FFE and the reduced thermal signature provides the Marine with an added layer of protection.”

The MCSC team worked closely with their Army counterparts to procure this new capability. All
shoulder-fired rocket ammunition is procured through the U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command,
the Single Manager for Conventional Ammunition. This enables the services to combine orders to realize cost savings by leveraging economic order quantity prices.

The M72 FFE rocket underscores the Marine Corps’ ongoing efforts to lighten the warfighter’s load and increase lethality. PdM Ammo expects to begin fielding the M72A FFE in calendar year 2024.

Barrett Announces the Return of the REC7 DI Rifle

Wednesday, May 15th, 2024

MURFREESBORO, TENNESSEE — Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc., the leader in long range, is pleased to announce the return of the REC7 DI rifle. First introduced in 2016, this iconic firearm returns to the market in Summer 2024 following a temporary production hold due to the MK 22 contract.

Known for its reliability and precision, the Barrett REC7 is designed specifically for situations in which there’s no room for error and features a mid-length gas system for reliability with or without a suppressor. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, its upper and lower receivers are machined from 7075-T6 aluminum, while all aluminum components are coated in Type 3 hardcoat anodizing.

Featuring a cold hammer-forged chrome-lined barrel, Magpul® furniture, ALG QMS trigger, and extended slimline Barrett handguard with M-LOK® accessory mounting slots, no detail has been overlooked in the pursuit of excellence.

Bryan James, President of Barrett, expressed his excitement regarding the return of the REC7 DI, stating, “We are thrilled to be able to offer the REC7 DI once again to our customers. This rifle embodies the legacy of quality and reliability that the Barrett name represents. We are confident that shooters will once again appreciate the exceptional performance and craftsmanship of the REC7 DI.”

Available in 5.56 x 45 NATO, every REC7 DI is hand-built one at a time, inspected, and tested to ensure it delivers the performance you expect from the Barrett name. 

For more information please visit barrett.net/rec7di.

Sneak Peek – SIG Spear Assaulter

Wednesday, May 8th, 2024

Using the same Spear platform developed for the US Army Next Generation Squad Weapon, SIG has come up with a new version of the Spear which is being internally referred to as the Assaulter.

This shorty version (above) features a 10” barrel and follows similar developments of the MCX family including the Rattler and USSOCOM’s PDW, the Reduced Signature Assault Rifle.

Performance-wise, with the 10” barrel you can expect in excess of 2800 fps, firing a 113 grain copper projectile from a high pressure case. In contrast, a 147 grain M80 ball projectile from a 24” M240 barrel is ~2800 fps.

The shorter barrel also leads to a lower weight, just shy of 7.7 lbs which is about a pound heavier than an M4AA1 equipped with a URGI.

This developments falls in line with SIG’s continued development of this platform in multiple calibers.

Look for more details soon.

Caracal USA Unveils New Enhanced F Pistol Torture Testing Video

Sunday, May 5th, 2024

From submersion in water to burial in sand and mud, even confronting bore obstructions, the Enhanced F Pistol emerges victorious, proving its capability to excel in the harshest environments imaginable.

Nampa, Idaho (April 2024) – Caracal USA, a leading US Based manufacturer of small arms for the law enforcement and defense markets, is thrilled to announce the release of its latest video showcasing the unparalleled durability and reliability of the Caracal USA Enhanced F Pistol.

Titled “Enhanced F Pistol – Torture Testing,” this riveting video takes viewers on a journey through extreme conditions to demonstrate the unmatched resilience of the Enhance F Pistol. From submersion in water to burial in sand and mud, even confronting bore obstructions, the Enhanced F Pistol emerges victorious, proving its capability to excel in the harshest environments imaginable. Designed to meet the demands of professionals and personal protection alike, the Enhanced F Pistol sets a new standard for ruggedness and dependability. With its innovative engineering and meticulous craftsmanship, this firearm ensures consistent performance, no matter the circumstances.

“We’re excited to showcase the incredible durability and reliability of the Enhanced F Pistol through our torture testing video,” remarked Jeffrey Spalding, CEO and President of Caracal USA. “This demonstration underscores our commitment to providing firearms that perform flawlessly under any conditions, giving shooters the confidence they need when it matters most.”

The 9mm polymer, striker-fired pistol offers users a snag-free carry in a low-profile design with superior ergonomics. Combined with the Quick-Sight™ System, which places both the front and rear sights on a single focal plane, the Enhanced F achieves target acquisition incredibly fast, even on second shots. All metal parts are QPQ nitride with an enclosed post-oxidizing surface treatment for increased durability and protection against wear and corrosion. Enhanced F barrels are SAAMI proof tested for +P ammo. The trigger shoe, trigger safety, and trigger bar are combined into a one-piece, multi-function unit (MFU) which is designed to create an extremely intuitive pistol for shooters of all skill levels.

The Enhanced F, designed with a combative edge, incorporates features that enable the user to act fast, even in the closest of encounters with low felt recoil. Ergonomically developed with a high, deep tang, the pistol feels like an extension of the user’s arm, and the snag-free exterior allows for rapid draw without catching on clothing or gear. The rear slide serrations provide a positive grip space for single-hand racking. The pistol also accepts accessories, lasers, and lights on the 1913 Picatinny rail forward of the trigger guard.

Caracal USA’s Enhanced F pistol is available in a variety of configurations, including a threaded barrel for a suppressor. Sight options and finish options are also available. Holsters are available from many manufacturers including but not limited to Alien Gear, HOFTAC iNDUSTRIES, Crossbreed, Craft, Urban Carry, and Phalanx Defense Systems just to name a few.

SIG-MMG 338 Program Series: Tested and Delivered (Part 2) Available on The Objective by SIG SAUER

Thursday, April 25th, 2024

NEWINGTON, N.H., (April 24, 2024) – “The Objective” by SIG SAUER, the go-to industry resource for cutting-edge innovation in the world of military small arms technology is proud to publish SIG-MMG 338 Program: Tested and Delivered (Part 2).

This second installment of a two-part series details the journey of SIG SAUER’s machine gun development effort that began with the SIG-MMG 338 for U.S. SOCOM’s LMG-M program, transitioned to the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) program, and is now returning to its roots. This feature picks up at Gen 3 and brings the reader to the future.

Through insightful topics that illuminate the world of weapon development, “The Objective” delivers unparalleled content about the cutting-edge world of military small arms technology direct from the team that is reshaping the modern battlefield through innovation.

Read now: The SIG-MMG 338 Program: Tested and Delivered (Part 2) at sigsauer.com.

Sign up so that you can be the first to know of new content from “The Objective!”

Savage Arms Introduces New Precision-Engineered TIMBER Series of Rimfire Rifles

Thursday, April 18th, 2024

WESTFIELD, Massachusetts – April 17, 2024 – Savage Arms® continues to be a leader of innovation in factory rifles with the introduction of the TIMBER Series– a new series of precision-engineered rimfire rifles. Offered in both bolt-action and semi-automatic, the all-new TIMBER Series is a testament to Savage’s commitment to excellence in firearms craftsmanship.

The TIMBER Series features three new rimfires, the TIMBER Thumbhole, TIMBERLite Thumbhole and TIMBERLite. Each firearm is available in bolt-action (B-Series) as well as 22 LR semi-automatic (A-Series) and offered in a variety of caliber options including:  22 LR, 17 HMR and 22 WMR. The TIMBER Series offers shooters features like a 20 MOA Picatinny Rail, a 10-round rotary magazine, a barrel threaded with cap for 1/2-28 and thread-in head spacing.

“This new TIMBER series is perfect for every Savage shooter from seasoned marksmen to newcomers just getting their start,” said Savage Arms’ Rimfire Product Manager Brett McKenna. “The three available lines provide users with options to match their preference, whether that is a classic wood stock or a lightweight option that does not compromise durability. The TIMBER Series promises an unparalleled shooting experience, we’re thrilled to finally announce this extension to the Savage line.”

The TIMBER Thumbhole marries precision with elegance, featuring a striking wood ambidextrous thumbhole stock. With a 2.5-6 lb. user-adjustable AccuTrigger™ and two Sling Studs, this series is crafted for enthusiasts who demand both performance and aesthetics. Experience the perfect blend of form and function with the Savage Arms® TIMBER Thumbhole.

The TIMBERLite seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. With a CarbonWood Laminate Stock and Carbon Fiber Wrapped Stainless Steel Barrel, the TIMBERLite rifles are 40% lighter than wood and weigh in at 5.1 lbs. The fusion of cutting-edge materials ensures reduced weight, enhancing portability and maneuverability without sacrificing structural integrity. Featuring a 1.5-4lb. user-adjustable AccuTrigger™ and three Sling Studs, experience unparalleled accuracy and comfort with these meticulously designed, lightweight rifles.

The TIMBERLite Thumbhole combines the elegance and ergonomics of the TIMBER Thumbhole rifles with the reduced weight and comfortability of the TIMBERLite models. Weighing 5.3 lbs., the TIMBERLite Thumbhole models feature a 2.5-6 lb. user-adjustable AccuTrigger™ and two Sling Studs. The TIMBERLite Thumbhole offers Savage customers an accurate and well-designed dual-use firearm. With a setup that can be used at a bench and a lighter weight that’s optimal for taking out on a hunt, this rimfire is built for both target shooting and hunting trips.

Part No. / Description / MSRP

70217 / 22 LR B-Series TIMBER Thumbhole / $499

70817 / 17 HMR B-Series TIMBER Thumbhole / $499

70517 / 22 WMR B-Series TIMBER Thumbhole / $499

47247 / 22 LR A-Series TIMBER Thumbhole / $478

70218 / 22 LR B-Series TIMBERLite Thumbhole / $600

70818 / 17 HMR B-Series TIMBERLite Thumbhole / $600

70518 / 22 WMR B-Series TIMBERLite Thumbhole / $600

47253 / 22 LR A-Series TIMBERLite Thumbhole / $555

70219 / 22 LR B-Series TIMBERLite / $989

70819 / 17 HMR B-Series TIMBERLite / $989

70519 / 22 WMR B-Series TIMBERLite / $989

47255 / 22 LR A-Series TIMBERLite / $1030

For more information about Savage Arms and its extensive line of leading firearms, visit savagearms.com.

Now Online in The Objective Series: SIG-MMG 338 Program (Part 1)

Wednesday, April 17th, 2024

In 2017, U.S. SOCOM challenged industry to provide potential solutions that could fill the gap between its man-portable, medium machine gun—the 7.62 NATO M240B/L, and its 84-plus-pound sibling—the 50 BMG M2A, a gap that was made all too apparent in the 2009 battle of COP Keating in Afghanistan.

This is the first post in a two-part series that details the journey of SIG SAUER’s machine gun development effort that began with the SIG MMG 338 for U.S. SOCOM’s LMG-M program, transitioned to the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapons program, and is now returning to its roots.

www.sigsauer.com/blog/the-sig-mmg-338-program-conception-to-reality-part-1