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UF PRO Sets 11 July for Premiere of Motion Picture About a Quest for Perfect Tactical Gear

April 1st, 2021

TRZIN, SLOVENIA (1 April 2021)—UF PRO today announced it has set 11 July as the date its much-anticipated summer blockbuster “The Xtendables” will debut on the silver screen.

The world-premiere showing will be held at an as-yet unnamed movie house somewhere in or near Ljubljana, Slovenia. Meanwhile, “The Xtendables” will also simultaneously open at 3,000 theaters across the U.S. and 8,000 more throughout Europe and Asia.

“We’ve spared no expense to create this masterpiece,” said writer-director-actor Armin Wagner. “We used all the latest technologies to assemble a work that rivals the best of 1920s Hollywood—er, I mean, 2020s Hollywood. Script, acting, cinematography, sound, special effects, you name it, we’ve got it all and it’s amazing.”

“The Xtendables” is a mashup of four beloved movie genres: action-adventure, buddies-on-the-run, sci-fi, and who-dunnit.

“It’s also a chick flick,” Wagner added.

The plot finds Wagner and six operators racing against the clock to locate the perfect garment system for professionals. The operators are played by CQB expert Eliran Feildboy, Mike (@knockoutlights) Levy and Kawa (@2alpha2quit) Mawlayee, combat medic Luka Zoren?, tactical tracker Boris Vos, and lovable K-9 patrol dog Roofie.

“The best part is when Luka commandeers a tank and Roofie is running ahead of him to show the way to the sought-after garment system, but the route Roofie takes leads Luka and the tank through an insanely narrow fast-food drive-thru lane,” Wagner said.

For information about “The Xtendables” and about UF PRO tactical gear, go to www.ufpro.com/xtendables-the-movie

Posted in Advertiser, Press Release | 2 Comments »

IVAS Production Contract Award

April 1st, 2021

FORT BELVOIR, VA – On 26 March 2021, the United States Army awarded Microsoft Corporation a fixed price production agreement to manufacture the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS).

This award transitions IVAS to production and rapid fielding to deliver next-generation night vision and situational awareness capabilities to the Close Combat Force (CCF) at the speed of relevance. The unique and innovative partnership between the Army and Microsoft accelerated prototype system development through the Soldier Centered Design approach to deliver an unprecedented system to our CCF.

The IVAS aggregates multiple technologies into an architecture that allows the Soldier to Fight, Rehearse, and Train using a single platform. The suite of capabilities leverages existing high-resolution night, thermal, and Soldier-borne sensors integrated into a unified Heads Up Display to provide the improved situational awareness, target engagement, and informed decision-making necessary to achieve overmatch against current and future adversaries. The system also leverages augmented reality and machine learning to enable a life-like mixed reality training environment so the CCF can rehearse before engaging any adversaries.

The Army’s partnership with Microsoft redefined the timeline for rapid development and production of a major defense program by taking advantage of the Middle Tier of Acquisition and Other Transaction authorities, and partnering with a non-traditional defense contractor that is an industry leader in developing innovative technology.

The partnership between the Army and Microsoft illustrates areas that the Department of Defense and industry can work together towards achieving modernization priorities in the interest of national security.

David Patterson, PEO Soldier Director of Public Affairs

Posted in Contracts, Optics, PEO-Soldier | 8 Comments »

Tardigrade Tactical – Infantry Low Profile Harness Pre-order

March 31st, 2021

The Infantry Low Profile Harness is designed to be worn under a body armor system and help the operator to stabilize the belt during movement as well as distributing weight and is constructed from one piece of laser-cut Squadron Laminate – except the webbing – which makes it very thin and flexible. The laser-cut holes along the spine and shoulder pieces, allows for sweat and heat to pass through them, for a higher level of comfort.

For this pre-order we offer a 20% discount, already applied to the price in the shop.

More information can be found here: www.tardigradetactical.com/products/infantry-low-profile-harness

Posted in International, Load Carrying, Press Release | 5 Comments »

Apsis Mount from AXL Advanced

March 31st, 2021

Apsis
Either of two points on the orbit of a planet or satellite that are nearest to or furthest from body around which it moves.

The Apsis Mount from AXL Advanced allows the direct and low profile mounting of any pouch that uses the industry-standard Safariland 2-Hole pattern, or the ELS hardware.

www.axladvanced.com

Posted in Load Carrying | 1 Comment »

Max Velocity Tactical Announces New Training Courses

March 31st, 2021

Romney, WV, (March 31, 2021) – Max Velocity Tactical is pleased to announce two innovative training classes for responsible citizens, adapted to the current ammo shortage crisis. These fundamental combat tactics classes, taught at the Velocity Training Center in Romney, WV, are open enrollment with no training prerequisite.

Hostile Environment Advanced Tactics (HEAT 1) is an introductory four-day class that will teach you tactical marksmanship and team tactical skills, including reaction to hostile threats and maneuver under hostile fire. HEAT 1 is the basic building block of our tactical training. Emphasis is the safe use of your weapon as an individual and as a member of a team. HEAT 1 is offered in two versions: HEAT 1 Live Fire (Classic) and HEAT 1 Hybrid (Ammo Saver).

HEAT 1 Live Fire (Classic) consists of two 2-Day sections:

Section 1 (Day 1 & 2) is conducted on the Flat Range. You will begin with fundamental weapon safety training and confirming the zero of your rifle. Next, you will learn weapon manipulation, fundamental shooting skills and how to clear weapon malfunctions. Then you will proceed to hostile environment marksmanship and individual react-to-contact drills.

Section 2 (Day 3 & 4) is conducted on Tactical Ranges 1 & 2. You will spend two days on the tactical ranges working in two-man pairs and four-man teams learning tactical drills that utilize reactive electronic pop-up targets and other training aids to replicate a real threat environment. Adding to your weapon safety and individual shooting skills, you now will learn team communication, situational awareness, and how to maneuver in a simulated hostile environment including ‘movement to contact’ as well as ‘break contact’ maneuver drills.

HEAT 1 Live Fire (Classic) 4-Day:

Cost: $850

Ammo Requirement: 800 rounds

HEAT 1 Hybrid (Ammo Saver) consists of two 2-Day sections:

Section 2 (Day 3 & 4) is conducted on the AirSim Tactical Ranges. You will spend Day 3 working in two-man pairs and four-man teams learning tactical drills that utilize reactive electronic pop-up targets and other training aids to replicate a real threat environment. Adding to your weapon safety and individual shooting skills, you now will learn team communication, situational awareness, and how to maneuver in a simulated hostile environment including ‘movement to contact’ as well as ‘break contact’ maneuver drills. Day 4 will utilize a highly-controlled, live enemy to practice the drills you learned on Day 3. This is where you will experience the practical application of the tactical skills you’ve learned against a live, moving enemy.

HEAT 1 Hybrid (Ammo Saver) 4-Day:

Cost: $800

Ammo Requirement: 300 rounds

Optional AirSim Rental (bring your own gas blowback rifle if you have it): $150.

Max Velocity Tactical specializes in teaching combat-proven, light infantry tactics, techniques and procedures adapted for the responsible, law-abiding citizen. The training curriculum is informed by a background and experience in SOF / elite forces and close protection / paramilitary contracting work. MVT classes are the real deal, and the tactics, techniques and procedures are familiar to any graduate of Ranger School or SFQC. Tactical classes are not simply a regurgitation of basic military manuals or training but are based on real world operational experience in hostile / combat environments.

Spaces available for both classes. Please check the Training Calendar here to see all currently scheduled Max Velocity Tactical classes.

Posted in Press Release, Training | Comments Off on Max Velocity Tactical Announces New Training Courses

Beez Combat Systems ICE Hydration Carrier

March 31st, 2021

The Beez Combat Systems ICE Hydration Carrier allows the wearer to store the IcePlate Curve hydration bladder by Qore Performance comfortably on the exterior of a plate carrier as a low profile hydration carrier system. The design of the ICE Hydration Carrier by Beez Combat Systems also allows the wearer the choice of either left or right port exits.

The ICE Hydration Carrier by Beez Combat Systems offers GRIDLOK attachment technology eliminating the need to source a third party attachment technology. Beez Combat Systems’ GRIDLOK attachment technology provides the wearer with additional security and ease of attachment while simultaneously reducing the overall weight utilizing laser cut technology.

A two inch Velcro enclosure secures the IcePlate Curve by Qore Performance into place as well as a 3″ x 6″ Velcro ID loop can be found on the hydration carrier to support moral patches, blood type or ID patches. The ICE Hydration Carrier by Beez Combat Systems can be mounted to any MOLLE/Pals style plate carrier.

Available at beezcombatsystems.com.

Posted in Load Carrying, Press Release | Comments Off on Beez Combat Systems ICE Hydration Carrier

TacJobs – Massif Seeks Director of Design and Development – Apparel

March 31st, 2021

Director of Design and Development – Apparel
Massif is seeking an experienced Director of Design and Development to provide direction and creative vision for the Company’s apparel and textile development while sustaining and communicating the Company’s design aesthetic and high-level performance across all products. Support the Company’s vision, strategies, and goals by working collaboratively through the design process using problem solving, relationship building and creative and critical thinking. This position reports to the Company’s Vice President & General Manager.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Owns and leads the 10+ person design and sample making team through working with cross functional teams to create performance apparel that meets or exceeds our customer’s expectations
• Creates and presents new product concept roadmaps, product designs, and line plans based on comprehensive knowledge of customers, technologies, and performance apparel industry
o In collaboration with Sales, researches and tracks new garment technologies to support the Company’s strategic goals and objectives. Ensures all risks related to growth are identified.
o In collaboration with Textiles & Technology and Sales teams, exchanges information regarding market analysis, trends, new technologies, and customer feedback for market growth. Ensures all risks related to growth are identified.
• Participates in executive level strategic planning sessions
• Accomplishes department and company objectives by effectively managing the Design and Development Team and evaluating department activities
• Develops and coaches team members to establish ownership of individual roles and responsibilities to meet deadlines
• Drives development of and adherence to Company’s Garment Design Language to ensure integrity of Company brand strategy
• Drives the evolution of product concepts to commercialization to achievable business strategies
• Prioritizes garment development projects in relation to the Company’s strategic vision.
• Participates with Sales in discussions with customers relating to product and program opportunities relating to new designs
• Sources new trims suppliers and manufacturing facilities as needed
• Assists with the evaluation of potential Cut and Sew facilities in accordance with Company requirements
• Collaborates with Sales on target garment costing and pricing
• Works closely with Compliance and Quality Assurance team to define performance metrics
• Recommends annual department budget and manages to approved budget
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Performs all duties in accordance with Company’s Quality Management System
• Domestic and international travel required

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor’s Degree in Design, or equivalent education or experience
• At least eight years of experience in designing men’s technical apparel, including at least two years of experience in apparel merchandising
• At least five years of experience managing people
• Visionary team leader
• Excellent understanding of patternmaking, sewing, outerwear/technical garments, line plan development, and process planning
• Excellent creative problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated leadership capability, including ability to motivate, lead, negotiate and impact
• Strong project management skills with the ability to delegate when necessary
• Ability to write product specifications and be a technical resource for others
• Ability to organize and effectively prioritize multiple tasks to meet deadlines
• Strong leadership skills
• Collaborative team player
• Ability to influence without formal authority
• Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing priorities
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, including strong presentation skills
• Experience in developing and maintaining relationships with suppliers
• Strong computer skills (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Indesign, Word, Excel, Outlook, MRP/ERP systems)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands described are those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position is primarily a sedentary position, which requires frequent use of a computer monitor and keyboard. It requires frequent walking and standing. It requires occasional reaching, bending, and fine manipulation. It requires the ability to talk and hear. It requires color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors). There are no other special vision requirements. It rarely requires grasping and lifting up to 10 pounds

This position is in an open work environment with moderate office noise.

This position is in an open work environment with multiple sewing machines and moderately loud noise and vibration. This position requires work near equipment with moving parts and hot irons. It entails exposure to airborne particles related to fabric/fiber dust from cutting fabric.

This position occasionally requires driving a rental vehicle while traveling on Company business.

This position occasionally requires visits to manufacturing facilities, which may result in exposure to a variety of environments, conditions, and/or hazards which are not customarily part of the employee’s work environment, such as extreme temperatures, moving equipment, vapors, chemicals, and noises and vibrations.

To apply visit our website at www.massif.com/info/careers.

Massif is an industry leader in making advanced fabrics and protective clothing for professionals who work in extreme environments, from the U.S. military to wildland firefighters and law enforcement professionals. Our mission is to provide comfort and flame protection for people in the world’s most dangerous jobs. We accomplish this mission with integrity and a commitment to superior customer service.

The Massif team is hardworking and energetic, focused on doing whatever it takes to get the job done. Our employees appreciate the outdoors and pride themselves on understanding the needs of our customers. Massif is dedicated to supporting its team members’ whole-hearted engagement in accomplishing Massif’s mission by recognizing the need for work/life balance. Our team works hard and plays hard. We aspire to be contributing members of our local community and the communities of our customers such as the U.S. military.

Located in the beautiful resort town of Ashland in Southern Oregon, Massif offers a casual, open work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Massif is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic characteristics, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Posted in Advertiser, TacJobs | Comments Off on TacJobs – Massif Seeks Director of Design and Development – Apparel

Stolen Valor in AETC?

March 31st, 2021

This photo by Kemberly Groue was posted last week to the US Air Force Facebook page under the heading Freestyle Friday!

The caption:

335th Training Squadron freestyle drill team members performed during the 81st Training Group drill down on the Levitow Training Support Facility drill pad at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi. Airmen competed in a quarterly open ranks inspection, regulation drill routine and freestyle drill routine. Keesler trains more than 30,000 students each year. While in training, Airmen are given the opportunity to volunteer to learn and execute drill down routines.

Here is a screenshot of the full post:

Just take the dubious activity depicted in the top photo out of the equation for a moment and concentrate on the headgear of the participants. This is where the question of stolen valor originates.

The Gray berets worn in the photo have long been solely authorized for wear by Weather Parachutists and the new Special Reconnaissance Air Force specialty.

It’s difficult to tell from the photo but the darker berets are either Blue or Black which belong to the Security Forces and Tactical Air Control Party AFSCs respectively.

Here are the appropriate passages from Air Force Instruction 36-2903 “Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel” which governs who wears what.

Either way, it is highly unlikely that any, let alone all of the Airmen depicted in these photos are from the AFSCs in question.

This begs the question of how long this has been going on and who authorized the behavior. It’s an Air Education Training Command base and unit, a command which is generally hypersensitive to following Air Force Instructions and yet, here we are, AFI 36-2903 out the window.

I’ve got a lot of friends in all three of those communities who are proud of their careerfield heritage. Naturally, they don’t want their beret worn as an ornament for someone who isn’t in their AFSC. I can respect that. Apparently, AETC doesn’t.

Some will say it doesn’t matter. If it doesn’t, then I suppose it would be okay for troops to just put on any old doodad they think would look great in uniform. Imagine A1Cs putting stars on their caps and Master Pilot Wings on their chests.

But, it does matter, and AETC needs to put a stop to this buffoonery.

Posted in Air Force, WTF? | 29 Comments »