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Qore Performance releases ICEBLOQ Water Tamped Breaching Device

January 17th, 2025

Qore Performance releases ICEBLOQ Water Tamped Breaching Device Knoxville, TN – Qore Performance, in partnership with K-Factor Breaching, introduces an innovative tool for military and SWAT breachers: ICEBLOQ Water Tamped Breaching Device. Designed to improve energetic efficiency, ICEBLOQ delivers reliable performance, and safety, offering a new approach to precision in breaching operations.

In high-stakes environments where every decision matters, ICEBLOQ equips breaching professionals with the tools to execute their missions with predictability and consistency. Its thoughtful design promotes consistent, repeatable results while reducing potential risks.

How ICEBLOQ Works ICEBLOQ utilizes water as a tamping medium to channel explosive energy more effectively into the target. ICEBLOQ enhances breaching operations with increased efficiency and safety by reducing explosive requirements and lowering environmental impact.

Key Features and Benefits of ICEBLOQ:

• Reduction in Explosive Requirements: Lowers Net Explosive Weight (N.E.W.) by an average of 60%, helping to reduce operational costs and risks.

• Improved Breaching Effectiveness: Water’s incompressibility channels explosive energy into the breach point for better results.

• Enhanced Operator Safety: Reduces overpressure, backblast, and fragmentation risks, offering greater protection in live scenarios.

• Durability and Portability: Built to exceed the performance of improvised alternatives, ICEBLOQ is highly portable and dependable.

• Consistent Performance: Thoroughly tested for predictable and repeatable results, suitable for training and operational use.

“Breaching is about creativity, physics, and the materials at hand-but every choice adds a layer of risk, ” said Will Amey, Retired Marine Gunner and Infantry SME at Qore Performance, Inc. “ICEBLOQ’s consistent performance significantly reduces that risk. Once you test it on the range, you’ll see its value.”

Whether honing skills in training or deploying in the field, the ICEBLOQ Water Tamped Breaching Device offers reliable, repeatable performance. It is a significant advancement in breaching technology, combining safety, efficiency, and precision to meet the needs of modern operators.

ICEBLOQ is proudly 100% Made in the USA, distributed from Qore Performance HQ2 inKnoxville, TN, and available now exclusively at QorePerformance.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Breaching, Press Release | No Comments »

Mission First Tactical Introduces the ACHRO Storage Case

January 17th, 2025

Horsham, PA – Mission First Tactical (MFT), manufacturers of state-of-the-art, USA made rifle/carbine accessories and holsters, is pleased to introduce the MFT ACHRO™ Storage Case: your discreet, durable ammo case, dopp kit and more.

“We wanted to incorporate our undeniably successful ACHRO line materials and technology into a versatile storage case that’s a perfect everyday companion,” said David Edelman,

“This new case is a great compact storage solution for daily essentials while on-the-go.”

Designed with both function and aesthetics in mind, the ACHROStorage Case is the perfect solution for storing and transporting your essentials. Whether you’re heading to the range, going on a camping trip, or simply need a reliable storage solution, this case has you covered.

Key Features:

• Versatile Dopp Kit: Keep your grooming essentials organized and easily accessible in this spacious and durable case.

• Rugged Durability: Constructed from weather and abrasion-resistant 1000D Nylon Kodra Carbonate materials, the ACHRO Storage Case can withstand the toughest conditions.

• Water-Resistant Construction: The YKK AquaGuard® zipper and contrast-colored ripstop liner keep your belongings dry and visible in any weather.

• Discreet Design: The sleek and understated design allows you to carry your belongings without drawing unnecessary attention.

• Additional Storage: Beyond its Dopp Kit capabilities, the ACHRO Storage Case offers ample space for ammunition, cables, and more. Easily holds: 500 rounds of 9mm, or 350 rounds of 5.56, or 1,500 rounds of 22LR,or all your toiletries, or all your cables and chargers.

• Lightweight and Portable: Measures 9.5″ x 4.5″ x 4″ and easily fits in a backpack or duffel bag, making it ideal for travel or everyday use.

Don’t settle for ordinary storage solutions. Experience the difference with the Mission First Tactical ACHRO™ Storage Case. MSRP: $29.99

To learn more about the MFT ACHRO Storage Case and the complete product offerings from Mission First Tactical, please visit www.missionfirsttactical.com and follow them socially on Facebook and Instagram.

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, Press Release | No Comments »

Silvus Technologies Partners with Safeware – Expanding Public Agency Access to Advanced StreamCaster MANET Radios

January 17th, 2025

Los Angeles, CA – January 16, 2025 – Silvus Technologies, Inc. (“Silvus”), a leader in advanced wireless communications systems, today announced a new resale partnership with Safeware, a leading safety solutions provider.

With StreamCaster MANET radios now available through Safeware, first responders, law enforcement, and disaster relief agencies across the nation can establish robust, decentralized communication networks, improving coordination and efficiency in emergency response.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Safeware to extend the reach of StreamCaster MANET radios to agencies on the front lines of public safety,” said Jimi Henderson, Vice President of Sales at Silvus Technologies. “This partnership ensures that first responders will have access to reliable, secure, and robust communications when it matters most.”

The Silvus family of StreamCaster MANET radios deliver high-fidelity video, voice and data communications with class-leading output power, range, and mobility. At the heart of every StreamCaster MANET radio is Silvus’ leading-edge MN-MIMO waveform technology that creates a self-healing, self-forming and adaptive mesh network – capable of linking hundreds of nodes with unmatched data rate throughput, EW resiliency, and scalability.

Also available as an extension of the MN-MIMO waveform is Spectrum Dominance – an expansive suite of advanced interference avoidance and cancellation capabilities that provide secure and protected mesh network communications in high RF traffic environments including disaster areas, sporting events, parades, and rallies, without sacrificing performance. This allows teams to stay connected and on mission in a wide range of operational scenarios without worrying whether communications will fail.

“At Safeware, just like Silvus, we’re dedicated to providing first responders and public safety teams with the best communication tools available,” said Connie Stallings, Senior Vendor Relations Manager at Safeware. “By including Silvus StreamCaster MANET radios to our list of partners, we’re helping agencies build strong, reliable communication networks that hold up in the toughest situations.”

Interested agencies can contact Safeware for more information.

Posted in Comms, Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

FirstSpear Friday Focus: SHOT Show 2025

January 17th, 2025

Come see us at SHOT Show next week over at booth #32111 (look for the giant FirstSpear tube) Tuesday, January 21st through Friday, January 24th. Check out our product line-up and catch up with our team to learn more about what’s coming in 2025!

FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting edge-tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train.

For more information visit First-Spear.com.

Posted in Advertiser, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post, SHOT Show | No Comments »

ISTEC Selected to Provide the Smoke Discharger System (SDS) for the British Army’s New MLRS A2

January 17th, 2025

ISTEC Services Limited is a British company with 35 years of operationally proven experience in the design, manufacture and supply of complex weapon integration solutions and smoke discharger systems (SDS) for military platforms. ISTEC has been selected to provide the SDS for the British Army’s new M270 MLRS A2. At DVD, in September 2024, ISTEC announced the delivery of 65 GPMG gun mounts for MLRS A2 and the combined contract value supplied via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) catalogue exceeds £1.5 million.

ISTEC has a long history of delivering weapon integration solutions for crew-served weapons such as HMG and MMG across Land, Sea and Air domains and has an extensive operational pedigree having supplied gun mounts for key operational vehicles such as WMIK, Mastiff, Viking and Jackal used for Land operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, ISTEC has also been providing bespoke platform SDS since 2018 and their systems have been fitted to specialist light strike vehicles so also have an extensive operationally proven pedigree.

An effective SDS is essential to enhance the MLRS A2’s survivability by providing rapid and effective smoke screens to obscure the vehicle from enemy observation and targeting. The smoke can be deployed quickly from under protection to create visual and infrared concealment, disrupting the enemy’s line-of-sight and guidance systems. This protection capability is crucial during manoeuvres in contact, allowing the vehicle to re-position while reducing the risk of being hit.

The new MLRS A2 will be fitted with the ISL 66SD/4 which is a four-barrel vehicle-mounted SDS capable of firing all natures of UK in-service 66mm munitions. However, ISTEC SDS can come in multiple configurations as required by the platform including 2, 3 and 4 barrel setups. The ISL 66SD range has been designed to ensure both the base plate and canister connectors are compatible with the UK in-service 66mm No12 Mk8 smoke discharger (dual pole) to minimise the logistic burden.

The system is supplied with the ISTEC Fire Control Unit which has 4 firing buttons, an arming safety cover and NVD compatible colour-coded LED indicators to show the status of each pod.

Adrian Webster, Operations Manager at ISTEC said, “We are extremely pleased to have won this important contract to help equip the UK’s new MLRS A2 platform with the best possible defensive suite of smoke dischargers. Our extensive experience in adapting solutions to meet vehicle geometry and architecture requirements, coupled with our long-standing history with both NSPA and the MLRS platform, makes this an exciting opportunity.” He added, “This project, combined with the weapons mount systems, further enhances the UK’s defence capabilities with cutting-edge technology, supporting national security and the operational effectiveness of the MLRS A2.”

Posted in Camo, Contracts, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Magpul Releases PMAG for SureFire ICAR 6 ARC

January 17th, 2025

I’ve been sitting in this for a long time. Magpul is poised to begin selling a new 25 round version of the PMAG. Designed in conjunction with SureFire specifically for the 6 ARC cartridge, it is used in the new Intermediate Combat Assault Rifle or ICAR as well as other upcoming intermediate cartridge rifles from other manufacturers.

6mm ARC (6x38mm) provides shooters with a light recoiling, accurate, and ballistically excellent cartridge option. The PMAG 25 ICAR GEN M3 Window magazine was designed specifically for the cartridge, offering a durable, reliable, lightweight, 25-round 6mm ARC polymer magazine for the Surefire ICAR carbine and other firearms with magazine wells based off the LWRCI Six8 mag well.

This magazine release is going to reinvigorate the AR market as we will begin to see new rifles and a magazine which can adequately handle the unique case design of 6 ARC. Turns out, although intended for 6 ARC, it also accommodates 338 ARC.

PMAG 25 for 6mm ARC for Surefire ICAR Features:

– 25-rounds of 6mm ARC

– Rounds-remaining capability via high-visibility coil and dual-side windows

– Paint pen dot matrix for magazine identification

– Redesigned bolt-catch notch for added clearance

– Over-travel stop prevent over insertion

– Slim, flared floorplate promotes extraction and handling while enabling use in mag pouches

– MagLevel system

– GEN M3 standard features such as constant curve internal geometry, a long-life stainless-steel spring, a four-way anti-tilt follower

– Low-profile ribs and aggressive texture on front and rear gives additional grip in all conditions

The magazine itself is a progression of the 28 round Six8 mag developed for an LWRC project in 2012. They took that as a starting block and SureFire developed a larger magwell to accommodate that magazine. Additionally, they used a custom broach to modify the test mags for 6 ARC. Testing feedback was integrated into the production magazine. The end-user asked for a slightly shorter mag so they ultimately gave it a 25 round capacity. It fits in standard 30’round AR mag pouches.

As many of you know, SureFire has been working on small arms technologies for years such as the AROC operating system. Now, they’ve created an entire rifle. I reached out to SureFire to find what I’m allowed to say about ICAR. This is the statement they gave me:

SureFire has always been committed to leading from the front as we continue our relentless pursuit of the newest technology. The ICAR 6 ARC rifle is a glimpse behind the scenes of future SureFire technologies in development. This project is a result of decades of R&D and is a solution for a specific customer. Currently the project is in pre-production status and the product launch date is TBD at this time.

I have fired the ICAR and it answers my complaints regarding previous versions of carbines chambered in 6 ARC. Mainly, magazine issues and bolt issues. It’s fully ambi and even integrates an RRS section on the handguard. The ICAR is a laser and I’m hoping it is available soon. I want one.

This is a SureFire video on the magazine.

Be sure to check the ICAR and magazine out in the Magpul booth at SHOT Show. I believe it will be one of, if not the biggest draw at the show.

Posted in Advertiser, Black Rifle, Weapon Accessories | 6 Comments »

Serco Wins $247m US Army Contract to Support Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) System

January 17th, 2025

Serco, the international provider of critical government services, has been awarded a new contract to support soldier readiness and performance within the US Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) System. The contract starts immediately and has an eight-month base period plus four one-year option periods. The estimated total value is $247 million (£203 million) if all options are exercised.

Serco and its contract partners will support the US Army’s initiative to enhance soldier readiness, support optimal physical and non-physical performance, significantly reduce injury rates, and streamline rehabilitation post-injury. Serco will provide training support to 45 US Army brigades at 15 locations across the United States.

Serco supports the entire career lifecycle of military personnel. Our broad range of capabilities include recruitment, onboarding, training, development, health services, assistance transitioning back into civilian life and veteran support programmes.

This new contract follows three other recently announced US defence contract wins:

A $193 million contract rebid to deliver transition to civilian life career training and counselling services on behalf of the Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Services Transition Assistance Program. The contract has a 1-year base period plus four 12-month option periods.

A $97 million new five-year contract to provide programme management and business performance improvement support to Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).

A $33 million contract rebid to provide psychological health outreach support for the US Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. The contract has a 9-month base period and four one-year option periods.

Mark Irwin, Group Chief Executive of Serco, said:

“Serco has a long, distinguished history of supporting the armed forces around the world and this win builds on our existing strength in the defence sector. We have a strong pipeline of further opportunities in the sector, which is now our largest sector globally.

“We are proud to support the US Army’s efforts to revolutionise how they empower and equip soldiers to take charge of their health, fitness and wellbeing. This contract reflects our ability to support members of the Armed Forces at every stage of their career in the military, from helping governments recruit the right personnel to providing training, development, and health support during their period of service, through to supporting them in their transition as they leave the military and re-enter civilian life.

“We will continue to use our broad set of capabilities, skills and expertise to impact a better future for customers, communities and countries.”

Posted in Army, Contracts, Medical, Press Release | No Comments »

Texas Air National Guard’s 111th Attack Squadron Named RPA Squadron of the Year

January 16th, 2025

SAN DIEGO – 15 January 2025 – The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) presented the 2023 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Squadron of the Year Award to the 111thAttack Squadron (ATKS) of the Texas Air National Guard, Joint Base Ellington Field, Texas. The award was presented at a ceremony at Ellington Field’s Lone Star Flight Museum on January 11, 2025. The award is given annually to the Squadron that distinguishes itself through its employment of RPA in meritorious service.

The award was presented by GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue and Lt. Gen. (Ret.) David Deptula of the Mitchell Institute.

The 111th ATKS “Aces” distinguished themselves as the first Air Force MQ-9A unit to achieve full operational capability in the newly fielded Satellite Launch and Recovery system. Additionally, during Exercise Air Defender, they executed the first Satellite Launch and Recovery operation at a civilian European airfield.

“I couldn’t be prouder of all the nominated units for their outstanding performance in 2023,” said Blue. “But the 111th Attack Squadron truly set the bar, achieving a flawless 100 percent execution rate. Their hard work supported eight named operations across three continents, nine operating areas, and six launch and recovery sites. That kind of dedication and precision doesn’t just happen—it’s a testament to their incredible leadership, teamwork and commitment.”

The Aces have paved the way for future RPA operations and demonstrated the ability of highly trained airmen equipped with cutting-edge combat capabilities to defend this great nation.

“It was an intense training ambition, but the 111th led the United States Air Force, under the unit’s own initiative, to be the first squadron to achieve full operational capability with the MQ-9A’s new Satellite Launch and Recovery capability, all while maintaining an exemplary 100 percent sortie execution rate,” said Lt. Col. Nathan Rieber, 111thATKS Commander.

These accomplishments distinctly identify the Aces as the Air Force’s most outstanding RPA squadron.

Posted in Air Force, Press Release, UAS | No Comments »