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Qore Performance Unveils ICEPLATE EXO Gen 3 Ultralight Minimalist Plate Carrier: Weaponizing Temperature for Unparalleled Competitive Advantage

July 29th, 2024

Knoxville, TN – [July 29, 2024] – Qore Performance®, a leader in thermoregulation and tactical gear innovation, is proud to announce the launch of ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3, the latest evolution of their Ultralight Minimalist plate carrier. This advanced performance and survivability tool goes beyond traditional plate carriers, enhancing physiological capabilities and shielding end-users from environmental challenges. “After using almost every high-end plate carrier on the market in a professional capacity overseas, I knew we had the foundational DNA for a vastly superior tool,” said Will Clark, Director of Operations at Qore Performance, “the combination of our professional experiences along with our vision for a performance-driven future of empowered individuals, gave birth to what is now ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3: the plate carrier I wanted as a professional end-user.”

Ballistic and Environmental Protection Excellence

ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 combines cutting-edge thermoregulation technology with next-generation materials to deliver one of the lightest and easily the most capable plate carriers on the market. ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 maintains a superior strength-to-weight ratio, with the side strap option weighing just 15.2 ounces and the AXL Equinox Cummerbund variant up to 23.2 ounces. Constructed from hydrophobic laminate materials with a tensile strength exceeding 600 pounds, the ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 (Berry Compliant) sheds unnecessary weight without compromising durability or performance.

The ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 is more than just a world-class plate carrier; it also integrates patented thermoregulation and hydration systems, such as the ICEPLATE®, seamlessly enhancing comfort and operational efficiency when used with body armor. By leveraging temperature regulation, the ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 expands physiological capacity, offering unparalleled advantages in extreme conditions through its unique and powerful cooling, heating, and hydration capabilities.

Key Features and Benefits

Cooling, Heating, Hydration: ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 incorporates patented ICEPLATE® and ICEVENTS® technologies, enabling operators to maximize endurance and effectiveness in any environment.

Ergonomic Load-Bearing: Designed with the operator’s needs in mind, ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3, especially with the AXL Equinox Cummerbund, offers a lightweight, ergonomic design that evenly distributes weight, reducing fatigue and improving mobility.

Durable and Hydrophobic: Made from high-quality, lightweight, and durable materials, ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 is built to withstand the demands of tactical operations. Its laminate construction repels water, making it ideal for maritime use.

Unprecedented Customizability: ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 is fully customizable, allowing armed professionals to tailor the carrier to their needs. It accommodates most two- or three-strand cummerbunds and integrates multiple quick-release systems into the shoulders.

Pushing the Bleeding Edge

“ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 is the first and only plate carrier in the world to actively expand the operational environment envelope, enhance physiological performance and inoculate the end user against temperature risk. ” said Justin Li, Co-Founder and CEO of Qore Performance. “ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 weaponizes temperature to create competitive advantages where none previously existed. It is a near perfect embodiment of ‘Building A Superhuman Future.”

Availability

ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 is now available exclusively on the Qore Performance website. It currently comes in Berry compliant ICEPLATE EXO® laminate, with a USMCA compliant laminate variant coming soon at a more accessible price point for those who do not require Berry compliant materials, but who still desire the precision and accuracy of in-house manufacturing done at Qore Performance in Knoxville, TN.

For more information and to place an order, visit: ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 Product Page.

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, Press Release | Comments Off on Qore Performance Unveils ICEPLATE EXO Gen 3 Ultralight Minimalist Plate Carrier: Weaponizing Temperature for Unparalleled Competitive Advantage

Revision Wins NSPA Contract for NATO Eyewear

July 29th, 2024

BATTLEFIELD PROTECTION WITH EVERYDAY STYLE

Essex Junction, Vermont (for immediate release) – Revision Military, a world leader in purpose-built ballistic eye protection for military and tactical use, now has a framework contract with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to supply a range of high-performance protective eyewear. The largest global supplier of ballistic and laser protective military eyewear solutions, Revision is the solution for major MoDs worldwide and is now available to any NATO countries wishing to purchase through NSPA – serving NATO nations, military authorities, and partner nations by providing efficient and cost-effective multinational solutions and access to Revision protective eyewear.

The contract was awarded following extensive review of Revision’s protective eyewear solutions by the NSPA. The contract duration is 3 years with options to be extended to a maximum of 2 years.

Selected by NSPA to meet the protective eyewear needs of NATO users, Revision is offering multiple kits featuring SAWFLY^®, SAWFLY R3^® and STINGERHAWK^® spectacles, as well as DESERT LOCUST^®, WOLFSPIDER^®, MERLINHAWK^®, AND SNOWHAWK^® goggles, with EXOSHIELD^® parachute eyewear completing the offering. All these products are available in a variety of lens offerings, featuring I-Vis® color enhancing high contrast lenses and LazrBloc® ballistic laser protective lenses. All revision eyewear is scalable with mission-specific accessories (prescription RX carriers, replacement lenses, replacement temple arms, retention straps, balaclavas, and more) also available through the framework contract.

Revision eyewear has been tried and tested in operations worldwide and is already in service across multiple countries delivering unmatched levels of protection, technology, and comfort.

Rene Roy, Chief of NSPA General Supply and Services stated: “As NATO’s primary enabler, NSPA’s mission is to provide effective and cost efficient multinational solutions to the Alliance, its thirty-two Nations and Partners. This contract is a good example of NSPA’s value proposition to industry: through the web-based platform of the NATO Logistics Stock Exchange (NLSE), the Agency responds to the evolving needs of customers, enabling Nations to procure on-demand systems and articles directly from manufacturers. This contributes to the preparedness of Allies for NATO missions and operations”.

Karan Rai, Revision Chairman of the Board said: “I’m proud to announce our NSPA contract award. Revision has operated in Europe for many years. This contract framework provides a streamlined procurement vehicle for NATO countries and the ability to rapidly meet real-world eyewear requirements to protect soldiers on the battlefield now and in the future. “

ABOUT I-VIS More than a single solution, I-Vis lenses are available in six tints, each optimized for use in a different environment. With the power of artificial intelligence, Revision accounted for theater-specific color vision variables that consider the color palette of locations while modeling the most likely lighting conditions to occur in that area using global data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The result is a suite of lenses, each providing the best observational experience for a given environment without compromise. The suite features mil-spec eye protection with separate tints optimized for key areas of military operation around the globe. Each tint is designed to increase contrast and elevate color recognition in specific geographic regions, doing so without the negative effects associated with traditional monochromatic lens tints.

Above: Revision^® MerlinHawk^® Goggle featuring I-Vis^® Cano Lens and Gryphon Field Gaiter provides full neck and head coverage without interfering with headborne equipment.

ABOUT LAZRBLOC Revision’s LazrBloc eyewear provides a comprehensive laser protection solution: battle-proven by military forces and Law Enforcement around the globe. Revision has been at the forefront of laser and ballistic protective eyewear solutions for the past decade. Standard laser protective lenses are widely available, but much rarer are lenses that combine tailored laser protection as well as military-standard ballistic protection coupled with world-class anti-fog performance, integrated prescription correction and multiple sizes for optimal fit and comfort. LazrBloc lenses and eyewear solutions from Revision meet these requirements.

Above: Revision^® SnowHawk^® Goggle and StingerHawk^® Spectacle featuring LazrBloc^® FT-2 laser lens which protects against violet, blue and green lasers .

ABOUT REVISION Revision is relentlessly dedicated to protecting vision by developing and delivering purpose-built eye protection for military and tactical use worldwide. The Company has invested in the development and delivery of advanced ballistic and laser protective solutions for over two decades and has become the leading expert in protective eyewear solutions for military, law enforcement, and first responders, Revision specializes in designing products with the optimum balance of protection and performance and offers the ability for its customers to develop bespoke solutions based upon their unique threat and mission.

Revision Military is headquartered in Essex Junction, Vermont, USA. For more information, visit www.revisionmilitary.com, write media@revisionmilitary.com, or call +1 802.879.7002.

CONTACT

Revision
media@revisionmilitary.com

ABOUT NSPA The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) is NATO’s lead organisation for multinational acquisition, support and sustainment in all domains. NSPA is headquartered in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, with main operational centres in France, Hungary and Italy. The Agency employs over 1,500 staff and oversees more than 500 contractors worldwide.

CONTACT

NSPA
Denisa Pais
cco@nspa.nato.int

Tags: Eyepro, Revision Eyewear, Revision Military, Sunglasses
Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, Eyepro, International, NATO, NSPA, Press Release | Comments Off on Revision Wins NSPA Contract for NATO Eyewear

Ghost Robotics Corporation and LIG Nex1 Announce Close of Acquisition

July 29th, 2024

LIG Nex1 will have a controlling stake in Ghost RoboticsPhiladelphia, PA and Seoul, South Korea – July 29, 2024 – Ghost Robotics, a leading innovator in legged robotics, and LIG Nex1, a premier South Korean defense technology company, are pleased to announce the close of a strategic partnership through LIG Nex1’s control-stake acquisition of Ghost Robotics. LIG Nex1 has acquired a 60% control-stake in Ghost Robotics for $240 million USD, valuing the company at $400 million USD.

This partnership marks a significant milestone for both companies as they combine their expertise and resources to advance the field of autonomous robotic solutions. The acquisition will enable Ghost Robotics to leverage LIG Nex1’s extensive experience and capabilities in defense technology and manufacturing to further accelerate scaling.

“We are thrilled to partner with LIG Nex1 and embark on this exciting new chapter for Ghost Robotics,” said Gavin Kenneally, PhD, Co-founder & CEO of Ghost Robotics. “Their investment and strategic guidance will accelerate our growth and enhance our ability to deliver groundbreaking robotic solutions to a wider range of industries and applications.”

LIG Nex1’s CEO, Shin IckHyun, echoed the enthusiasm, stating, “Our acquisition of a majority stake in Ghost Robotics aligns perfectly with our vision to lead the future of defense and security technology.” He added, “We expect this acquisition will serve as momentum for both companies to grow together based on our leading-edge technological capabilities and close cooperation.”

This partial acquisition will foster innovation and drive the development of next-generation robotic systems for both industrial and defense markets. By combining their strengths, Ghost Robotics and LIG Nex1 are well-positioned to lead the industry in delivering robust, versatile, and reliable robotic solutions.

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MATBOCK Monday: 40MM Sight

July 29th, 2024

The Aquire Read Deploy (ARD) weapon sight, a state-of-the-art device designed and manufactured in the USA to elevate your accuracy and efficiency in the field.

Crafted from durable anodized aluminum, the ARD sight is versatile, mountable on either side or top rails, and built to withstand the rigors of combat. Its standout feature is the digital LCD screen, which displays the range of 40mm projectiles based on the angle of the weapon, the weapon system, and the specific round used. This technology is currently configured for the M203, 320, and PGL6 weapon platforms, accommodating various rounds, including High-Explosive (HE) and non-lethal options.

One of the most impressive aspects of the ARD sight is its adaptability. As new weapon systems and rounds are developed, the sight can be updated with the latest software, ensuring it remains at the cutting edge of military technology. This future-proof design means you’ll always have the most up-to-date targeting information at your fingertips.

What sets the ARD sight apart in the heat of battle is its simplicity. Estimating the range to the target and adjusting your weapon accordingly is intuitive. After the first round impacts, the digital readout allows for rapid adjustments, enabling you to bring your target into sight swiftly and accurately.

For a deeper dive into the ARD weapon sight’s capabilities and real-world applications, check out this informative video:

Whether you’re in training or on the battlefield, the ARD weapon sight is a game-changer, providing the precision and reliability you need to stay ahead of the enemy. Equip yourself with the ARD and experience the future of tactical targeting today.

To schedule a demo or find out more, please email sales@matbock.com or check out www.matbock.com/collections/accessories/products/ard-sight

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Optics | 9 Comments »

Unveiled: Minted USMC Coins For 250TH Anniversary

July 29th, 2024

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, VA —

The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation and the U.S. Mint unveiled a trio of commemorative coin designs honoring the 250 years of Marine Corps service and sacrifice during a minting ceremony July 17, 2024, at the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

The last coin minted in honor of the Marine Corps was for the Corps’ 230th anniversary in 2005, and the generated funds enabled the construction of the NMMC, where the 250th commemorative coins were officially revealed.

“This is a way for everyone in America to recognize the importance of 250 years of what the Marine Corps means to this country,” said retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James W. Lukeman, the president and CEO of the MCHF.

The images on the coins, he said, cover 250 years of “every Marine is a rifleman.” The gold coin depicts the Marine Corps Color Guard while the flag raising of Iwo Jima is on the silver coin, and the clad coin features two Marines: one dons the continental uniform of 1775 with a musket, and the other in modern-day camouflage utilities wielding a M4 service rifle.

“Next year will mark 250 years of the Marine Corps making Marines and winning battles on behalf of our great Nation. These coins represent the cultural significance of our Corps and will directly contribute to the telling of our history and preserving our institution in the hearts of future generations.”

said the Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith.

On July 26, 2023, President Joe Biden signed into law the 250th Marine Corps Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act following its passing through congress, authorizing the minting of over 1 million commemorative coins.

“It’s so special for each of us, because there is so much care that goes into the design of these coins,” said Kristie McNally, the deputy director of U.S. Mint, regarding all the people involved in the design process of the coins. “It’s exciting to actually get to share them with the public.”

All surcharges generated from coin sales will support the MCHF and the NMMC’s future educational, historical, and cultural programs that preserve, showcase and educate the public on Marine Corps history, traditions and culture.

The commemorative coins become a part of the next year’s national celebration of the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary, and this set will be the only commemorative coins minted in 2025.

Specifically, the signed legislation authorized the Department of Treasury to mint 50,000 five-dollar coins, 400,000 one-dollar coins, and 750,000 half-dollar coins.

“I am grateful to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, congressional leaders, and all those who made this coin possible,” said Smith. “We are honored that they would bestow this symbol of appreciation upon us.

To view the Marine Corps’ 250th Anniversary Commemorative Coins, please visit www.usmint.gov/learn/coin-and-medal-programs/commemorative-coins/us-marine-corps-250th-anniversary.

Sales will be available early 2025, at www.usmint.gov.

Story by Shaemus Sawyer, Marine Corps Base Quantico

Photo by LCpl Joaquin Carlos Dela T

Posted in Guest Post, History, USMC | 3 Comments »

ArktisUSA Launch Update

July 28th, 2024

UK-brand Arktis has released this statement via social media regarding the planned launch of their US subsidiary.

Looks like October folks.

Posted in Industry | Comments Off on ArktisUSA Launch Update

Milestone in Hungarian Infantry Fighting Vehicle Programme: Rheinmetall Hands Over First Lynx from Domestic Manufacturing

July 28th, 2024

At a ceremony on 24 July 2024, Rheinmetall handed over the first KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) produced at the Zalaegerszeg site in Hungary to the Hungarian armed forces. On behalf of the Hungarian government, Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky attended the handover. Dr Björn Bernhard (Head of Rheinmetall Vehicle Systems Europe) and Paul Walf (CEO Rheinmetall Hungary) welcomed the guests on behalf of Rheinmetall.

The first Lynx from Hungarian production was already completed in December 2023. Following extensive functional inspections as well as performance and quality acceptances, it has now been officially handed over to the Hungarian armed forces.

In Zalaegerszeg, Rheinmetall Group operates the world’s most modern competence centre for the production of tracked armoured vehicles, in particular the highly innovative Lynx. The factory was opened in August 2023.

Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky, Defence Minister of Hungary: “I often say that peace requires strength, which means a lot of kinds of strength, and in this regard, we have gained real and serious strength with Rheinmetall and in this alliance, which significantly enriches Hungary. This is a kind of strategic partnership that is more than strategy or partnership – this is a real alliance, and within this framework, we hope to win the future for Hungarians, and we’re building something that will remain for the next generations, and we’re strengthening Hungary.”

Dr Björn Bernhard, Head of Rheinmetall Vehicle Systems Europe: “We are grateful to be able to support the Hungarian armed forces as an industrial partner in the Lynx lighthouse project. We have now reached an important milestone within the project. With the production of the Lynx, we are seriously proving our commitment in creating local added value in Hungary and transferring technology to the country. This model is also transferable to other countries which might also be interested in similar partnerships”.

In August 2020, the Hungarian Ministry of Defence commissioned the Rheinmetall Group to supply combat vehicles and associated services worth over

€2bn as part of its “Zrínyi 2026” initiative. A total of 209 Lynx KF41s are to be supplied to the Hungarian armed forces in seven variants: IFV, command post vehicle, armoured reconnaissance vehicle, fire control vehicle, mortar carrier, medical vehicle and driving school vehicle. A Lynx air defence tank with a Skyranger 30 turret is also in progress as part of another development contract, placed in December 2023.

In the first production phase, Hungary will receive 46 German-made Lynx infantry fighting vehicles by the end of 2025. The first vehicle from this series was handed over in October 2022. Production of the remaining vehicles began at the end of 2023 as part of the Rheinmetall Hungary Zrt. joint venture between Rheinmetall (51%) and the Hungarian government (49%) in Zalaegerszeg.

The state-of-the-art development and manufacturing site in Zalaegerszeg was opened on an area of approximately 33 hectares as part of the industrial complex ZALAZone in August 2023. The site also includes an extensively equipped test centre with a firing tunnel. In addition to strengthening the local economy, the factory also contributes to promoting innovation and, above all, creates around 300 highly qualified jobs. Rheinmetall plans additional investments in the site in the coming years in order to further increase production capacity. The establishment of the IFV and other variants will also strengthen the development of the Hungarian economy and defence industry.

Thanks to its modular design, the Lynx KF41 is characterised by maximum adaptability. This means that the Hungarian customer’s specific national requirements can be precisely fulfilled. The state-of-the-art infantry fighting vehicle impresses with its scalable armament, various layers of protection, upgradeable systems and the ability to take on new roles in just a few hours after being fully converted.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Milestone in Hungarian Infantry Fighting Vehicle Programme: Rheinmetall Hands Over First Lynx from Domestic Manufacturing

BlueForge Alliance Promotes Careers “Built to Last” with a Modernized Classic American Icon

July 28th, 2024

BRYAN/COLLEGE STATION, TX – BlueForge Alliance (BFA), a nonprofit integrator supporting the United States Navy’s Submarine Industrial Base (SIB), has launched its second national marketing campaign — “Built to Last”— focused on elevating awareness of opportunities in maritime manufacturing.

The campaign seeks to reach a younger audience of next generation talent who may be unaware of the substantial opportunities for stable and impactful careers in maritime manufacturing. Parents, mentors, teachers, coaches, and other key influencers of this upcoming generation of professionals will also be reached to help spread awareness about these meaningful career opportunities.

Leading the charge in short commercials will be Rosie the Riveter, an icon of World War II who originally encouraged women to seek manufacturing industry roles supporting the U.S. military. The reimagined Rosie will choose a role in the current maritime manufacturing effort instead of service industry work, calling on the new generation to consider the same path.

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The campaign will lead its viewers to CareersBuiltToLast.com, a mobile-first website focused towards Gen Z. The site showcases well-paying, high-tech, high-ceiling manufacturing opportunities in comparison with more conventional careers. While discovering the benefits of these opportunities, they can also explore hundreds of training programs in all 50 states where they can gain skills and certifications to launch their careers.

“Stability, sustainment, and purpose are paramount for those seeking professional paths,” said Melissa Wren, principal for external affairs and administration, BlueForge Alliance. “The careers emphasized through ‘Built to Last’ ensure individuals and families are supported in long-term roles, and they ensure the United States Navy has the vessels it needs to remain the best in the world. We thank adam&eveDDB for its efforts in creating a campaign that meets the moment during this critical period in American history.”

“Built to Last” will utilize a broad multimedia, out-of-home, and new media approach, and will include both national media and regional outlets in areas of the country of key importance to the U.S. Navy.

“Many people across America aren’t aware of the huge opportunities for careers in maritime manufacturing,” said James Rowe, Managing Director at adam&eveDDB New York. “The gig economy has created a transitory workforce, and we wanted to demonstrate that there are incredible long-term career opportunities across American manufacturing. Bringing an icon like Rosie the Riveter into 2024 felt like a unique way to connect with a new generation and make them aware of the prospects that a career in manufacturing has to offer.”

The new campaign will complement BFA’s initial national marketing effort, “We Build Giants,” which supports BuildSubmarines.com, the recruitment hub for the 15,000-plus suppliers making up the Navy’s SIB. “We Build Giants” encourages individuals entering or already in the manufacturing workforce to consider careers at SIB suppliers.

In order to meet the Navy’s goal to add three submarines to its fleet each year beginning in 2028, sustain its existing undersea platforms, and support allies, an estimated 140,000 skilled workers are needed in the American maritime defense manufacturing workforce over the next decade.

Posted in Press Release, TacJobs | Comments Off on BlueForge Alliance Promotes Careers “Built to Last” with a Modernized Classic American Icon