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First EagleEye Radar Comes Off the GA-ASI Production Line

August 23rd, 2024

New High-Performance Multi-Mode Radar Tailored for MDO

SAN DIEGO – 23 August 2024 – On July 31, 2024, the first EagleEye multi-mode radar came off the production line of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI). The new radar is a high-performance system that delivers high-resolution, photographic-quality imagery that can be captured through clouds, rain, dust, smoke, and fog at multiple times the range of previous radars. EagleEye will be a “drop-in” radar enhancement for the U.S. Army’s current Gray Eagle Extended Range Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and is part of the initial configuration for the new Gray Eagle 25M (GE 25M) UAS. The Army National Guard has ordered 12 GE 25Ms.

“The EagleEye radar has improved range and multi-mode performance, which is tailored to the deep sensing capability required for Multi-Domain Operations (MDO),” said Jeff Hettick, GA-ASI vice president of Agile Mission Systems. “We look forward to delivering the EagleEye to our U.S. Army customer in the near future.”

Earlier this year, GA-ASI announced the development of a new Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) antenna and associated software for EagleEye, which will increase range and deliver significant mode enhancements. The radar’s increased range and optimized multi-mode performance allow the aircraft to operate well outside the Weapons Effects Zone of most threat systems, adding a layer of survivability that supports the Stand-Off survivability with Stand-In effects of long-range sensors, which is a key component of the Gray Eagle 25M being developed for the U.S. Army.

EagleEye is a multi-mode radar that builds on years of pioneering expertise by GA-ASI. Using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), EagleEye enables operators to look in detail through atmospheric conditions that might obscure a purely visual sensor. And for the first time on the Gray Eagle platform, EagleEye delivers radar-based Full-Motion Video (FMV) capability called “Video SAR,” which enables live visual tracking of moving targets — even during heavy cloud cover. As part of the EagleEye development, GA-ASI has improved target detection range using real-time Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) software that runs on board the aircraft.

The EagleEye radar performs Moving Target Indication (MTI), detects changes, builds stripmaps, and yields other precise insights to analysts, commanders, and operators using industry-standard data formats. With its Maritime Wide Area Search (MWAS) mode, EagleEye also provides a dedicated maritime MTI mode for tracking and targeting vessels. This further supports the MDO mission set of the U.S. Army, particularly in support of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM). The same mission is a focus for Europe, Africa, and the Middle East where there is an increased need for maritime reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition, which is critical to achieve information dominance and overmatch.

Posted in Aviation, Press Release | Comments Off on First EagleEye Radar Comes Off the GA-ASI Production Line

Colt SCW Available from Arms Unlimited

August 23rd, 2024

Colt created a custom run of Sub Compact Weapon carbines for Arms Unlimited.

Specifications:

• Caliber: 5.56 NATO (.223 Caliber)

• Length: 26 (retracted) / 29.5 inches (extended)

• Weight: 6.2 pounds (weapon only)

• Barrel: 10.3 inches, free float barrel

• Rifling: 1 in 7 inches, right-hand twist, 6 grooves

• Sights: Rear Folding low profile adjustable sights, Fixed Front Sight

• Rail system: 2-Piece Picatinny Rail

• Buttstock: 6-position adjustable

• Operation: Air-cooled, gas-operated, firing from a closed bolt

• Safety: Ambidextrous

• Magazine 30-round

They are marked with “SCW Carbine” and “SCW” as a suffix in the serial number.

Order yours from armsunlimited.com for delivery to your local NFA dealer.

Posted in weapons | 2 Comments »

Exfil Woobie Poncho Liner

August 23rd, 2024

Yes, the name is a mouthful, but the Exfil Woobie Poncho Liner from Uwharrie does a little more than your traditional poncho liner. It can be used as a blanket but it also features a head hole so it can be worn. Additionally, there’s a zipper along the edge, so you can fashion it into a sleeping bag.

Offered in Black, Coyote, and Ranger Green with a bright Orange interior for signaling.

Available from Uwharrie as well as Raptor Tactical. I’m also told that US Patriot should have them in their stores.

Posted in Shelter | Comments Off on Exfil Woobie Poncho Liner

Why the WARQ Pro Helmet is a Game-Changer for Law Enforcement & Military Training

August 23rd, 2024

WARQ Helmets has posted a new video featuring USCG Veteran Buck Buckner on how the WARQ Pro helmet is revolutionizing law enforcement training protection. The WARQ Pro features advanced anti-fog technology and 210-degree wide field of view to makes force-on-force training even more realistic.

warqhelmets.com

Posted in Combatives, Helmets | Comments Off on Why the WARQ Pro Helmet is a Game-Changer for Law Enforcement & Military Training

FirstSpear Friday Focus: NEW Base Henley Long Sleeve

August 23rd, 2024

– Lightweight and breathable
– Classic Henley neckline with a three-button placket
– Reinforced stitching for enhanced durability
– Tailored fit for a sleek, athletic appearance; thumb holes
– Proudly made in the USA

Elevate your performance and style with the FirstSpear Base Henley. Designed for both rugged durability and supreme comfort, this versatile shirt is a staple for those who demand excellence in their gear.

Featuring a classic Henley neckline with a three-button placket, this shirt combines functional design with a timeless look with a raglan style shoulder seam. The reinforced stitching and robust construction promise long-lasting wear, while the tailored fit provides a sleek, athletic silhouette that moves with you. Now available in grey and black in Small through 2XL.

For more information, check out www.First-Spear.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

Command Post Exercise Ensures 10th Mountain Division Prepared for Operations

August 23rd, 2024

FORT DRUM, N.Y. — Clear and consistent communication is how the 10th Mountain Division (LI) maintains an advantage in combat, but it’s not a skill that comes without constant refinement and rehearsal of coordination strategies.

Command Post Exercise 1D, held Aug. 12-16, 2024, on Fort Drum, is designed to address this domain and get Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 10th Mountain Division, the hands-on experience needed to succeed in operational settings.

Soldiers participating in CPX-1D are tasked with establishing, maintaining, operating and relocating command posts. Command posts are collections of critical communication infrastructure established in operational environments that quickly and effectively disperse information to Soldiers on the ground, crucial to the success of their mission.

“They’re really the heart of the division,” said Maj. Richard Steinouer, the executive officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 10th Mountain Division. “The order that comes from the highest general, down to the lowest Soldier, comes from these command nodes that we’re establishing.”

CPX-1D allows Soldiers to refamiliarize themselves with practices they’ll need to be ready to execute but also allows them to learn and use new technologies and outlets to accomplish their duties. The Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System Artillery Execution Suite is one of the new technologies that 10th Mountain Division Soldiers participating in CPX-1D had the opportunity to use for the first time.

The AFATDS AXS augments the ability to conduct fire missions by streamlining the information presented to the Soldier, accelerating the process by which information is transmitted to the operator, and introducing new channels to work from, such as detaching and operating as a tablet.

“The Army’s all about speed, and we have to make sure that the software that we develop also matches the speed of need,” said Maj. Henry Castillo, an assistant program manager assigned to the U.S. Army Project Executive Office. “We have to make sure that it can react properly to every single new threat from a near-peer adversary.”

Gaining experience with systems like the AFATDS AXS builds familiarity with the necessary tactics, techniques, and practices that will become critical to the 10th Mountain Division when operating in practical environments. Without the ability to rapidly construct and function in command posts in high-stress situations, the 10th Mountain Division loses one of its greatest strengths: its clear, consistent, and concise communication.

“Without those command nodes and the network they need with the right people at the right node, you’re not going to be able to do any kind of mission command,” Steinouer said. “The only way to do it well is to do it over and over again.”

By SPC Kade Bowers

Posted in Army, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

ProTecBird Enables Successful Protection of the Red Kite Around Wind Turbines

August 22nd, 2024

Rheinmetall supplies expertise in the field of air defence for the detection of protected bird species

With AI and sensor technology from ProTecBird and software from the military sector, Rheinmetall and ProTecBird want to ensure the protection of red kites around wind turbines and at the same time contribute to the energy transition. Both companies have now announced the successful demonstration of the effectiveness of the AVES Wind anti-collision system for the protection of red kites around wind turbines, which was developed by ProTecBird by integrating Rheinmetall technology. With this milestone, the young technology start-up from Husum, which is specialised in the development and manufacturing of economical and species-specific anti-collision systems, has now overcome a significant hurdle for the energy revolution in Germany in partnership with Rheinmetall.

The development of effective anti-collision systems (ACS) has been one of the biggest challenges in the operation of wind farms in areas with wind-sensitive bird species. The balance between technical feasibility and reliable species protection is of central importance for the planning processes in the construction of wind farms. With its AI-based AVES Wind anti-collision system, ProTecBird has succeeded in solving this problem by defining and demonstrating the requirements for an anti-collision system in terms of nature conservation, economics and technology for the first time. By doing so, the system offers an alternative to generalised shutdown regulations by providing a customised solution for wind farm-operators through species- and situation-dependent short shutdowns.

As one of the federal states with the most wind power, Schleswig-Holstein is a pioneer in the establishment of forward-looking standards for anti-collision systems and their integration into approval procedures. On behalf of the Ministry of Energy Transition, Climate Protection, Environment and Nature of the Federal State of Schleswig-Holstein (MEKUN, Ger. for Ministerium für Energiewende, Klimaschutz, Umwelt und Natur), a committee was convened in September 2022 to develop a testing framework under the direction of the State Office for the Environment SH (LfU, Ger. for Landesamtes für Umwelt). This committee, consisting of a team of consultants (TÜV NORD, the Office for Biostatistics), ACS and wind energy manufacturers as well as stakeholders from nature conservation organisations and wind energy associations, developed a comprehensive testing framework for the validation of ACS by the end of 2023. On 8 August 2024, Tobias Goldschmidt, Minister of Energy Transition, Climate Protection, Environment and Nature of the Federal State of Schleswig-Holstein, announced the first nationwide testing framework for anti-collision systems. The testing framework is currently being evaluated by other Federal States in Germany in order to incorporate it into their own area of responsibility.

The AVES Wind system from ProTecBird was tested at an existing wind farm between July and September 2023 in accordance with the requirements of the technical convention proposal “Test framework for anti-collision systems” (MEKUN 2024). A total of 237 red kite flight sequences were analysed at various sites on a total of 25 recording days: AVES Wind detects, recognises and protects the red kite in accordance with the specifications of the technical convention proposal (MEKUN 2024), meaning that the species protection requirements and the protective effect for the red kite are fully met by the ProTecBird anti-collision system.

“We are delighted to have our AVES Wind anti-collision system recognised, and are proud to be making a contribution to the energy revolution,” comments Thorsten Heinzen, CEO of ProTecBird. “The cooperation with the relevant players in Schleswig-Holstein was crucial for this breakthrough. The fact that ProTecBird was the first company to undergo and pass the officially defined testing framework highlights the company’s innovative strength and commitment. With its AVES Wind anti-collision system, ProTecBird has achieved a technological breakthrough that can be seen as disruptive for the wind energy industry,” continues Thorsten Heinzen. “We have created a clever networked system that utilises the existing wind farm infrastructure and further improves the effectiveness and sustainability of the generated wind energy”.

The solution of the AI-based AVES Wind anti-collision system is based on software developed by Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH, which was originally programmed for air defence in the military sector and is in use worldwide.

Rheinmetall uses an established software (Multi Mode Tracker) that can recognise and assign missiles via pixel changes on the horizon. Thanks to the further development of the software by ProTecBird and the use of the newly developed AI, different bird species, such as the protected red kite, can now be reliably recognised and tracked by the systems’ sensors. As a result, automated shutdown commands are sent to wind turbines, effectively preventing collisions between the animals and the rotor blades from a predefined distance between the bird and the wind turbine.

“The possible applications go far beyond the original military field,” explains Uwe Lindenau, Sales Manager Mission Systems at Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH.

“The cooperation between Rheinmetall and ProTecBird is unique worldwide. With our software and the technical expertise of ProTecBird, not only can unique protected birds such as the red kite or the white-tailed sea eagle be protected. Concerning the aviation sector, it also offers great benefits for flight safety regarding bird strikes on aircraft engines and the airframe,” Lindenau continues.

For Rheinmetall, demonstrating the effectiveness of the system in wind turbines is a successful example of the Group’s involvement in environmental protection.

As a technology start-up, ProTecBird is determined to push ahead with its research and development. The company is currently working on expanding its technology to other animal species, such as real-time detection of bats, to ensure more comprehensive protection of wildlife.

In addition, ProTecBird aims to expand its partnerships to promote the use of renewable energy not only in Germany but also worldwide.

Posted in International, Power, Press Release | Comments Off on ProTecBird Enables Successful Protection of the Red Kite Around Wind Turbines

Remington’s Logan Henry Secures Doubles Victory at the Grand American World Trapshooting Championship

August 22nd, 2024

LONOKE, Ark. – August 21, 2024 – Remington Ammunition research and development engineer, Logan Henry, emerged victorious at the 125th Grand American World Trapshooting Championship, winning the Doubles event. The competition took place at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, Ill. from July 31-August 10, 2024.

Henry’s exceptional performance at the Championship Doubles, where he hit all 100 targets, propelled him into a shoot-off against four other top competitors. Demonstrating his unwavering skill and determination, Henry emerged triumphant, clinching the coveted title of World Champion of Doubles.

“Winning the world championship has been a dream of mine since I started shooting trap. I’ve been shooting Remington shells since the beginning, so it’s an honor to bring home a championship title representing Remington,” said Henry.

The Grand American Championship, held annually at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, Illinois, is widely regarded as the pinnacle of trap shooting competitions. Drawing participants from around the globe, the event showcases the finest shotgunning skills and fosters a spirit of camaraderie among shooting enthusiasts. Henry’s achievement not only highlights his talent but also underscores Remington’s commitment to producing top-quality ammunition that empowers shooters to excel in their respective disciplines.

As a research and development engineer at Remington Ammunition, Henry contributes to the company’s long-standing reputation as a leader in competition shotshell technology. His and Team Remington’s success on the competitive stage showcases Remington’s reputation as a trusted industry leader.

Other notable wins for Team Remington include Peter Walker winning the Champion of Champions Event in the Open Division and for the third consecutive year, Wyatt Debrie was the leading points winner for captain of the Sub Jr. Team. Debrie also won HOA and HAA awards for the category. Finally, legendary trap shooting competitor Tank Lunsford won the HOA and HAA in the Veteran category for both the Prelim and Grand representing Big Green and shooting Nitro 27.

Big Green competes and wins with Remington Premier shotshells. Top quality, consistency and accuracy come standard when trap, skeet or sporting competitors shoot the iconic Premier STS and Nitro 27 families of ammunition.

Find Remington ammunition at dealers nationwide and online. For more information on Remington ammunition and accessories, visit www.remington.com.

Posted in Ammo, Industry, Press Release, Shooting Sports | Comments Off on Remington’s Logan Henry Secures Doubles Victory at the Grand American World Trapshooting Championship