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US Army Prototypes Integrated Visual Augmentation System Network Capabilities for Tactical Vehicles

July 28th, 2020

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. (July 23, 2020) — Army Futures Command (AFC) is using rapid prototyping to integrate tactical network systems, which will enhance functionality of the Soldier-worn Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS), onto combat vehicles.

IVAS provides Soldiers with improved situational awareness capabilities as they fight, train and rehearse missions. IVAS capabilities include a digital display to access information without taking eyes off the battlefield, thermal and low-light sensors, rapid target acquisition, aided target identification and augmented reality.

The Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) Center — a component of AFC’s Combat Capabilities Development Command — is leading the prototyping efforts, in coordination with IVAS developers and network project management offices. The Center uses its in-house expertise to inform and refine the design, fit and function needed to house and integrate network components, including radios, servers and cables.

The C5ISR Center started design work this spring to integrate IVAS devices with Stryker armored vehicles, leading to Vehicle Excursion 2 (VE2) in January 2021 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. The Soldier Lethality Cross-Functional Team (SL CFT) will host VE 2 with about a dozen participating organizations from Army research and development, acquisition and operational forces. It will be a static vehicle user study focused on assessing the utility and proof of concept of new capabilities on Strykers and Bradley Fighting Vehicles to gain early Soldier feedback.

To enhance IVAS network connectivity and capabilities, C5ISR Center engineers and network system developers engineered a network communications gateway and data management kit known as Project Bloodhound in 2019. The C5ISR Center delivered the integrated network kit mounted on an MRZR all-terrain vehicle, which allowed dismounted Soldiers using IVAS to connect into the broader Army tactical network to share and receive data.

This prototype and others will enhance modernization efforts led by the C5ISR Center, SL CFT, the Network CFT, Program Manager IVAS, and PM Tactical Radios.

Bloodhound allows greater connectivity throughout the company echelon, through a tactical radio integration kit that includes radio gateways that enable voice and data information to be pushed and pulled from multiple sources. This concept is being applied to the Stryker prototype effort.

“We designed Project Bloodhound as a modular vehicle-mounted system that can be integrated into any vehicle,” said C5ISR Center mechanical engineer Ryan Stuk. “Certain features could be employed in a command post or dismounted capacity. We’re now taking the knowledge and expertise gained from the MRZR integration and applying those to Strykers.”

The Stryker effort will provide additional capabilities for Soldiers, whether they are mounted, dismounted or in transition, Stuk said. The Army’s three objectives are to leverage the Strykers as an IVAS power source to maintain mission capability, integrate with existing and future vehicle-based onboard camera systems, and enhance Soldiers’ situational awareness while mounted or transitioning to dismounted.

The Center’s organic, internal prototype integration facility (PIF) has enabled the Army to meets its objectives for multiple design iterations, changing requirements and quick deadlines, said Tom Brutofsky, chief of the C5ISR PIF. A key aspect to Project Bloodhound has been additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing.

“The C5ISR PIF has invested heavily in additive manufacturing to develop a rapid prototyping capability to deliver functional designs with significant cost and time savings,” Brutofsky said. “The PIF manufactured the MRZR Bloodhound prototype approximately 80 percent through additive processes and went from concept to functional prototype in less than three months.

“Additive manufacturing also enables easier modifications as engineers gather Soldier feedback during exercises and as the Army identifies additional vehicles for network kit integration.”

Soldier touch points like VE2 enable the Army to transition from R&D to prototypes and then mature capabilities for fielding.

“For the C5ISR Center, incorporating Soldier feedback is essential,” Brutofsky said. “Understanding the needs of Soldiers on the battlefield early on helps us make better use of time and resources.”

By Dan Lafontaine, CCDC C5ISR Center Public Affairs

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Mobility, Optics | 3 Comments »

Blue Sky Network Launches First Secure Docking Station for Iridium 9575A Satellite Phone to Government Markets

July 27th, 2020

SAN DIEGO — Tuesday, July 14, 2020. — Blue Sky Network, an Iridium Satellite Communications partner, has officially announced the release of the 9575A Docking Station, the first and only secure docking station for the Iridium 9575A satellite phone. The Iridium 9575A satellite phone is the only commercial handset that is capable of Type I encryption accredited by the U.S. National Security Agency for Top Secret voice communications and is replacing the now-obsolete Iridium 9505A satellite phone.

Blue Sky Network’s 9575A Docking Station, the successor to the ASE-MC03-DOD dock for the 9505A, is the only commercially available docking station that supports the 9575A satellite phone handset. The 9575A is an ideal secure satellite communications solution for military and/or government operations for use anywhere in the world. The 9575A Docking Station supports General Dynamics’ DOD security module 2 and Enhanced Mobile Satellite Services (EMSS) for global voice, data, and paging capabilities.

The Iridium Security Module 2 (ISM2) is a sleek, small form factor encryption module that provides NSA Certified protection of classified voice and data communications. The module is covert as it fits completely inside the Iridium 9575A handset and provides end-to-end security for information classified Top Secret and below. The docking station also enables seamless integration into existing Plain Ordinary Telephone Service (POTS) systems. Its small form factor and operator-friendly wall mounting make for smooth incorporation into everyday operations.

Blue Sky Network also offers a military-grade grab-and-go communications kit, aptly deemed the 9575A TOC BOX. The 9575A TOC BOX includes the 9575A Docking Station, external antenna, and a digital privacy handset in a ruggedized case for secure communications in remote, austere environments.

“Growing up in a military family, I learned the importance of safe and secure communications and the critical impact to military operations” said Nick Tucky, Blue Sky Network’s Vice President of Sales. “It’s been an honor supporting the U.S. military and federal agencies’ communications needs both CONUS and OCONUS.”

Posted in Comms, Press Release | Comments Off on Blue Sky Network Launches First Secure Docking Station for Iridium 9575A Satellite Phone to Government Markets

Rokon Single Track Trailer

July 27th, 2020

The Single Track Trailer was designed specifically to complement the Rokon 2×2 motorbike.

The pressure of the single tire can be adjusted to the terrain. It offers 10″ of ground clearance and a capacity of 100 lbs.

The universal joint and narrow construction allow the trailer to go anywhere, right behind the Rokon.

www.rokon.com/accessories/single-track-trailer

Posted in Mobility | 1 Comment »

New RCBS Rebel Single Stage Press Now Available

July 27th, 2020

OVERLAND PARK, Kansas – July 24, 2020 – RCBS, the leading manufacturer of ammunition reloading equipment for rifles and pistols, announced today that the new Rebel Single Stage Press is now available and shipping to retail partners. Constructed from a solid cast iron frame and capable of delivering consistent loads with ease, the new press represents the next evolution in single stage press technology.

The new RCBS Rebel Single Stage Press has been meticulously machined to exacting tolerances and features several enhancements over competitive models. Among the new features include the tallest opening of any RCBS single stage press on the market, allowing it to make light work of today’s longer cartridges.

Other new features include an ambidextrous handle, machined referenced surfaces, and a spent primer system that allows the primers to go directly into a trash can ensuring that no primers are spilled on the work area. Additional features include a Zerk fitting for those times when lubrication is required along with an extra wide base for enhanced stability.

“The Rebel Single Stage Press offers outstanding strength, durability and versatility in one easy to use package,” said Jason Slinkard, Director of Shooting Accessories for Vista Outdoor. “Built to simplify the reloading process, our newest press continues forward the RCBS tradition of rugged dependability while promoting ease of operation at every touch point.”

For more information on the new RCBS kits visit your local retailer or go to www.RCBS.com.

Posted in Ammo, Press Release | Comments Off on New RCBS Rebel Single Stage Press Now Available

AirBoss Defense Group Awarded Contracts Valued at Over $123 Million to Support the PPE Requirements of the U.S. Strategic National Stockpile and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

July 27th, 2020

LANDOVER, MD (July 27, 2020) – AirBoss Defense Group (ADG), which is focused on the design, development and manufacturing of American-made, proven, commercially available personal protective equipment (PPE) that protects front-line workers and defense personnel, announced today that it has been awarded more than $123 million in contracts to supply PPE to U.S. Government agencies.

ADG been awarded a $121 million contract by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) – Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR), for 50,000 American-made FlexAir™ Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR), 3,000,000 High Efficiency Filters and related accessories, including spare protective hoods, that will be part of the inventory for the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS). The FlexAir PAPR is designed to enable medical providers and first responders unencumbered protection over extended periods of time, while providing critical medical care. Deliveries under the contract to HHS are expected to be completed over the next nine months.

ADG further announced that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has placed a sustainment order of $2.55 million with ADG for 60,000 high efficiency (HE) filters and 20,000 protective hoods to establish a contingency stockpile of equipment for the ongoing fight against COVID-19. This sustainment order supports the continued use by VA medical personnel of the over 10,000 American-made FlexAir PAPR systems that had been delivered to the agency earlier this year. Deliveries to the VA are expected to be completed over six weeks, beginning in mid-August.

Patrick Callahan, CEO of ADG, stated: “These new contracts underscore ADG’s ability to quickly respond to the COVID-19 crisis by focusing the entire company on delivering FlexAir PAPR systems to front-line workers across the United States. These orders to supply the PPE needs of the SNS and the VA will bolster U.S. capabilities to respond to public health hazards and ensure that the United States has a more robust domestic capability to support the federal response to future emergencies.”

“To this end, ADG has increased staffing to support the urgent needs of the U.S. federal government and is manufacturing PAPR systems at facilities in Landover, Maryland; Auburn Hills, Michigan; Scotland Neck, North Carolina; and Charleston, South Carolina,” Mr. Callahan noted.

The FlexAir PAPR system is a compact, lightweight respirator system powered by an onboard battery in a waist-mounted blower, designed and manufactured in the United States. The flexible design permits the use of two high-efficiency particulate filters that are designed to provide a 99.7% protection level against particulates, aerosols and biohazards, including the COVID-19 virus.

The PAPR order for the SNS follows an earlier Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) order for 100,000 PAPR systems that was placed to respond to the immediate threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. ADG has since successfully delivered over 90% of the initial order and remains on track to complete this original contract on time, by the end of July 2020. Additional future follow-on orders for sustainment filters, hoods and accessories are anticipated. The VA order builds upon ADG’s proven record of dependability as the PAPR system provider of choice for federal agencies.

ADG’s PPE products have been used by various branches of the U.S. government for over 20 years. In addition to the above HHS and VA contracts, ADG has received over $15 million in non-governmental orders for PPE during the current pandemic. ADG’s emergency response equipment and PPE are utilized by the U.S. Department of State, Office of Strategic Medical Preparedness, FEMA and CDC infectious disease treatment centers.

The Company provides protective equipment to emergency first response teams and hospitals in hundreds of U.S. cities, as well as over 30 countries worldwide. ADG successfully responded during the MERS and Ebola outbreaks, by providing critical protective equipment to government and civilian first response customers. ADG will continue to engage in the response to the COVID-19 outbreak through the rapid delivery of domestically manufactured PPE and patient isolation systems to the first-responder community.

For more information, please visit www.adg.com.

Posted in Contracts, COVID-19 Pandemic, Medical, Press Release | Comments Off on AirBoss Defense Group Awarded Contracts Valued at Over $123 Million to Support the PPE Requirements of the U.S. Strategic National Stockpile and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Victorinox – Knife, Combat Rescue

July 27th, 2020

Victorinox’s new Knife, Combat Rescue is Swiss made and features a safety blunted serrated blade which also makes it a great choice for jumpmasters thanks to its one-handed opening and no-slip grip. It’s lightweight at 3 oz and also incorporates a Phillips head screwdriver which can also be used on knots.

Available exclusively from the Windrose Group.

www.windrosegroupllc.com or call 570-974-6089.

Posted in Knives | Comments Off on Victorinox – Knife, Combat Rescue

MATBOCK Monday RAPID IFAK Deployment Pouch

July 27th, 2020

RAPID IFAK DEPLOYMENT POUCH

Good morning and Happy MATBOCK Monday!

Weighing in at 7oz The Rapid IFAK Deployment pouch was specifically designed to support post assault operations when dealing with an active shooter. The pouch is designed to hold 7 Phokus Research Group “Shield Kits” for immediate care as well as a MATBOCK J-LIFT or 5 Shield Kits and an S-LIFT). It can be worn as a stand-alone fanny pack or cross chest attachment, MOLLE or mounted to an operators belt. The versatile design allows for endless possibilities to support the operator’s needs.

Don’t forget to tune in on Monday at 4:30 PM EST as we go live to demo the the Rapid IFAK Deployment pouch.

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Medical | 1 Comment »

US Army Strategic Ops Directorate to Shape Electromagnetic, Cyber Capabilities

July 27th, 2020

WASHINGTON — The Army recently implemented a new directorate to support requirements within the electromagnetic spectrum, enabling the force to prioritize, integrate, and synchronize its data-enabled warfighting capabilities to fight and win in a multi-domain battlefield.

In February, the Department of the Army’s Management Office-Cyber directorate reorganized to DAMO-Strategic Operations, or DAMO-SO, said Brig. Gen. Martin F. Klein, the organization’s director.

The organization, which falls under the Army’s G-3/5/7 office, was created to work “horizontally across the Army,” by partnering with other communities of interest throughout the Army Staff, Army Training and Doctrine Command, and Army Futures Command, to name a few, Klein said.

DAMO-SO will generate policies and programs to help resource and execute information technology, mission command, space, and enterprise capabilities, Klein said. Further, the program will refine the force’s approach to joint multi-domain operations, which could subsequently impact the Army’s force structure, resources, and strategy.

The move to DAMO-SO also signifies the Army’s push to move beyond the “information age to the cognitive age,” Klein added. Adopting a cognitive-based technological approach could augment the Army’s decision-making process through data collection and analysis.

The directorate is currently working to collect data from the Army’s warfighting systems and structure to fully understand how and where they can increase capabilities within the electromagnetic spectrum.

“This is a historic time for us,” Klein told reporters Tuesday. “For our senior leaders to have the foresight to stand up [DAMO-SO] … I think it will provide not only the Army but the joint force with great effects.”

Cloud architecture

One of the critical focus areas within the DAMO-SO directorate is tied to the Army’s effort for standardized data architecture and cloud computing technologies.

“What [DAMO-SO] is trying to do is breathe energy into this digital transformation, by making sure that … we have common data standards [and] common architecture to make our data available,” he said.

The directorate has worked closely with the Army Chief Information Officer/G-6, the Enterprise Cloud Management Office, Network Cross-Functional Team, and other entities to define and improve the Army’s cloud-computing architecture.

“What we’re trying to do is work with current systems that we have in the Army’s inventory, to make sure that we digitally enable them and transform them to provide immediate use to the warfighter,” Klein said.

“We are also looking at the satellite connections that enable our enterprise to connect with our integrated tactical network through our regional hub nodes,” he added. The directorate will continue to work with the Army Space and Missile Defense Command to accomplish this task.

Creating a reliable cloud-computing capability at both the enterprise and tactical levels will help integrate the Army’s weapons systems and non-kinetic maneuver technology, Klein said.

He also mentioned work using cloud abstraction, which refers to the deployment of applications or data to facilitate the interoperability between systems. In theory, cloud technology will allow the Army to more effectively share data and integrate weapons systems across its formations.

“I think we have turned a corner, and we are beginning to see ourselves clearly in this digital transformation environment, through the work that we have done within the cloud,” Klein said.

Dialing in the Army’s electromagnetic spectrum capabilities will help the force compete and win with a complex and uncertain environment, he added.

By Devon Suits, Army News Service

Posted in CEMA, Comms, Guest Post | Comments Off on US Army Strategic Ops Directorate to Shape Electromagnetic, Cyber Capabilities