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Is The Army Looking to Expand Use of MOLLE 4000 Airborne Rucksack to General Purpose Forces?

September 19th, 2019

Terry Baldwin sent me a link the other day with this note:

I admit, this particular item of kit has really captured my interest. It seems from the pictures that the “final” version of the rucksack is even more of a large ALICE-clone than the prototypes suggested. The rigging geometry, likewise, would be very familiar to you or me. It also appears, from a separate slide briefing that it is being considered not only for Airborne units but also as a possible Service-wide replacement for the Molle Large. Note, the standard Molle waistpad / belt used with the prototypes has been replaced by what looks like an OCP version of the pad /belt on the Marine’s FILBE pack. The shoulder straps also have a new 4-point connection arrangement above the envelope pad. Interesting stuff.

He had run across a sources sought notice from earlier this year. The Army is looking to build more of its new MOLLE 4000 Airborne Rucksacks. What is interesting is the description. Up to now, it has only been intended for airborne troops.

Considering the numbers of 130,000 packs and the Army’s concentration on modernizing it’s Close Combat Forces, this looks like a possible fielding for the BCTs.

Here’s the info on the MOLLE 4000 Ruck:

“The new MOLLE Rucksack for Airborne and General Purpose Forces [ emphasis added] is a Government-owned design. It has an approximately 4000 cubic inch capacity and made of 1000 Denier nylon coated fabric, has an external frame, adjustable shoulder straps and an adjustable waist belt. The exterior of the rucksack has multiple storage pockets and pouches of varying dimensions. The interior of the main compartment of the rucksack has a pouch for carrying a radio / hydration bladder or other similarly sized equipment. The interior of the main compartment of the rucksack has a center zippered flap that divides the main compartment into two approximately equal upper and lower halves. The bottom of the rucksack has a separate [Air Items] storage compartment and above that a zippered access into the lower part of the main compartment.”

LTC Terry Baldwin (USA, Ret) contributed to this report.

Posted in Contracts, Packs, Parachuting | 25 Comments »

1st SFAB Trains and Certifies Military Advisors for Worldwide Employment

September 19th, 2019

FORT BENNING, GA. – The 1st Security Force Assistance Brigade, an Army conventional force for training and advising globally, had the opportunity to enhance their capabilities and train their military advisors over a two-week period during Advisor Forge at Fort Benning, Georgia, August 5 through 18, 2019.

Across scorching hundred degree temperatures in field environments, the Army’s advisors trained in partnering with a foreign force, conducting sling-load operations, establishing electronic equipment for global communication and emergency medical relief scenarios.

The training exercise focused on the development of skills for Army advisors to provide support, advise, and liaise with foreign conventional security force partners in time of worldwide employments.

“Through adaptability, we can be prepared for all different presented issues and come together as a global team to solve them,” said Sgt. Michael Fletcher, an intelligence analyst assigned to 1st Security Force Assistance Brigade.

The culminating exercise was an opportunity for participating Soldiers to enact 1st SFAB’s mission statement of supporting local security operations to build partner security capacity and capability and achieve regional security in support of US National Interests.

“The reason why we are in the SFAB is to create enduring innovative solutions,” said Cpt. Travis Coley, Headquarters and Support company commander within the 6th Battalion, 1st Security Force Assistance Brigade, “We exist to empower conventional foreign security forces in establishing sustainable methods to solve issues.” Coley believes SFAB Soldiers are able to do so by applying their training in the understanding of local customs, culture, traditions and political nuances.

The military advisors and instructors of the 1st SFAB, formed in 2017, includes 529 Soldiers, 360 that are officers. It is the first brigade of its kind. According to the Pentagon. Six fully operational brigades are expected to train and preform at the highest capacity by 2020.

By PVT Daniel Alkana

Posted in Guest Post, Profession of Arms | Comments Off on 1st SFAB Trains and Certifies Military Advisors for Worldwide Employment

Samson Manufacturing MPX Handguards Now in Titanium Cerakote Finish

September 19th, 2019

KEENE, NH – Samson Manufacturing is now offering their popular MPX Handguards in a Titanium Cerakote finish. These narrow profile, M-LOK® handguards are the answer for those wishing to replace the larger and heavier factory handguard on their SIG SAUER MPX pistols and carbines. Now in three color options—Titanium, Black and FDE—the MPX Handguards are available in 8” and 14” lengths.

The continuous top rail and ample M-LOK slots allow you to put your accessories wherever you need them. The handguards are made from 6061 aluminum and mount securely to the receiver using the existing mounting hardware.

Order yours in any color, or all three colors, now on the Samson website.

For more information visit www.samson-mfg.com or contact esales@samson-mfg.com.

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Samson Manufacturing MPX Handguards Now in Titanium Cerakote Finish

Army Cyber Leaders Talk Workforce Strategies, Talent Management

September 18th, 2019

WASHINGTON — The military is doing a great job recruiting cyber talent into military and civilian service, but retention is more difficult, said the deputy assistant secretary of defense for cyber policy said at the Billington Cybersecurity Summit in Washington.

“We have people lined up out the door that are ready to come onboard and do the mission, whether it’s cyber operations or traditional cybersecurity,” Burke E. “Ed” Wilson said at last week’s event.

Wilson said Congress gave the military some unique authorities that have helped in hiring qualified civilians.

“This has allowed us to hire with more agility based on the talent,” he said. “That’s been a big win, and we’ve seen very good results over the last 18 months.”

But the challenge is retention. “Clearly, we don’t do well on salary in the military, but we’ve been able to handle that with bonuses,” Wilson said, adding that the strategy is working well, except in some niche areas.

John “Jack” Wilmer, the Defense Department’s deputy chief information officer for cybersecurity and chief information security officer, said young people are attracted to the military because it has a “cool mission.” To keep them, the military provides them with some really great training opportunities, he said.

Cyber games, for example, allow them to go toe-to-toe with some of the best cyber warriors from other countries, he said. “We try to incentivize people and connect them with opportunities,” he added.

Army Lt. Gen. Stephen Fogarty, commander of Army Cyber Command, said another way to incentivize the workforce while solving difficult cyber problems is to organize the cyber workforce into teams.

Teams can be made up of people who are experts at electronic warfare, information operations, intelligence, developers, malware analysts and other specialties based on the type of operation they’re engaged in, he said.

The teams can extend outside the U.S. military and include foreign military partners, commercial vendors and academia, Fogarty said.

“We very rarely act without a consortium of partners. I can’t think of a single operation that didn’t include multiple partners,” he said. “Young people reach out to their peers and build their own networks. They’re very successful at building these ad hoc relationships, and they get after the mission.”

By David Vergun, Defense.gov

Posted in CEMA, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

National Museum of Intelligence and Special Operations Conceptual Design Has Been Honored With A 2019 Architectural Design Award

September 18th, 2019

Recipients of Chicago Athenaeum’s 2019 American Architecture Awards have just been announced. Winners will be recognized at an awards gala on October 10th and featured in the forthcoming New American Architecture (Metropolitan Arts Press Ltd).

Now in its 25th year, the American Architecture Awards are the highest public awards given in the United States by a non-commercial, non-trade affiliated, public arts, culture, and educational institution. They are also the centerpiece of The Chicago Athenaeum and European Centre’s efforts to identify and promote best practices in all types of architectural development, as well as recognize design excellence and the best and next contributions to innovative contemporary American architecture.

“For 25 years, the American Architecture Awards have presented stunning and meticulously- designed projects that demonstrate quality architecture in the service of clients, as well as the general public, no matter the scale of project,” states Christian Narkiewicz-Laine, Museum President, The Chicago Athenaeum. “This year’s winning projects are the buildings that are profoundly shaping American architecture in the 21st-Century. Today’s celebrated award; tomorrow’s landmark.”

The 2019 entries were reviewed and winners selected by a prestigious jury composed of Miami based architects, educators, and developers including Alejandro Gonzalez of Arquitectonica (ARQ), Carlos Rosso of The Related Group, Luis O. Revuelta of Revuelta Architecture, Peter J. Studl (former Chairman) of The Chicago Athenaeum, Paolo Trevisan of Pininfarina of America, and Sebastian Salvat of Fortune International Realty.

Among the winners of the 2019 American Architecture Awards is the conceptual design for the anticipated 57,500-square-foot, National Museum of Intelligence and Special Operations. The effort is spearheaded by the OSS Society and will be built just north of Dulles International Airport, about 30 miles west of Washington, DC. Designed by Fentress Architects, the envisioned museum plans to educate the American public about the importance of strategic intelligence and special operations to the preservation of freedom, honor Americans who have served at the “tip of the spear” and inspire future generations to serve their country.

Curt Fentress, Principal in Charge of Design at Fentress Architects said, “The concept of the museum’s landmark design was inspired by the spearhead, a symbol used by the intelligence and special operations communities since World War II. The spearhead shape will define the footprint of the museum, which will be visible from the flight path of Dulles International Airport.”

Symbol of the OSS revealed in site plan

Side view of walkway to events pavilion

Events space

“Tip of the Spear” Pavilion

Posted in History, Memorial, Press Release | 3 Comments »

High Speed Gear Brings On Wes Doss of Khyber Training

September 18th, 2019

SWANSBORO, N.C., Sept. 17, 2019 – High Speed Gear®, maker of Battle-Proven Tactical Gear™, is proud to announce a working partnership with Wes Doss, CEO and founder of Khyber Interactive Associates LLC.

“High Speed Gear’s® continued expansion into the law enforcement and military markets has provided a unique opportunity to partner with key individuals to help enhance our knowledge base that ultimately will guide the manufacturing of our gear,” said Bill Babboni, HSGI® vice president of sales and operations. “Now more than ever it is important to have a deeper understanding of what gear our customers want and need. It is critical that we have individuals we can trust to provide feedback and assist in our testing. Wes has a long history training LE and military personnel; his expertise, understanding and use of our equipment will help deepen our brand within these communities. We are excited to bring him on as part of the team.”

Doss is an internationally recognized firearms, tactics and use-of-force instructor with more than 30 combined years of military and civilian criminal justice experience, as well as significant operational time with both military and law enforcement tactical operations and protective service organizations. Doss holds specialized instructor certifications from the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board, Smith & Wesson Academy, Sig Sauer Academy, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of State and more.

“There is a lot of choice in equipment these days and the dollars spent on gear need to be spent wisely,” said Wes Doss. “Anything substandard could mean the difference between life and death. I’m excited to represent a brand like High Speed Gear® with the extreme quality, versatility and dependability it provides.”

Posted in Advertiser, Press Release | Comments Off on High Speed Gear Brings On Wes Doss of Khyber Training

MDM 19 – Infuze Hydro

September 18th, 2019

At every trade show I run across something I don’t expect to see. For Modern Day Marine, it’s the Infuze Hydro.

This small company out of Utah manufactures an in-line system for hydration systems which adds the liquid flavoring or performance enhancers you would normally dump right into your reservoir. Instead, the flavoring is completely separate and a back pressure valve keeps it from flowing into the reservoir leaving you with a cleaner system which doesn’t retain strong flavors. A flavor dial also allows you to choose straight water, or the amount of flavoring added before consumption.

The secret is these cartridges. They are refillable and you can use on of their four Elixir mixes or your own additive.

Infuze also offers a water bottle system which works off the same system but accepts a different cartridge.

www.infuzehydration.com

Posted in MDM, Sustainment | 14 Comments »

Orolia Defense & Security Announces Completed Acquisition of Talen-X

September 18th, 2019

Talen-X has joined Orolia Defense & Security to expand its capabilities and resources, enabling the development of more advanced Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) solutions and to offer more robust customer support.

Rochester, NY, September 18, 2019 – Orolia Defense & Security has completed the acquisition of Talen-X, a U.S. company specializing in advanced Global Navigation Simulation System (GNSS) solutions and Interference, Detection and Mitigation (IDM) technologies.

“Orolia Defense & Security is excited to bring on Talen-X as they offer a complementary portfolio of solutions and bring many years of advanced PNT experience to the team. We look forward to continuing their growth by providing additional resources and capabilities, while ensuring the growth and success of their current customers,” said Hironori Sasaki, President of Orolia Defense & Security.

In early 2019, Orolia Defense & Security spun off as a separate entity from its parent company Orolia, with the mission of providing Resilient PNT solutions and custom engineering services to U.S. Government agencies, U.S. Defense organizations, and their contractors.

Orolia Defense & Security operates as a proxy-regulated company, Free of Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI). As such, Orolia Defense & Security is approved to work on the full spectrum of U.S. Government classified and unclassified projects and is positioned to support strategic partnerships in the development of key PNT technologies for the defense market.

“Our culture of innovation, together with our demonstrated testing capabilities, will complement Orolia’s technology expertise and significantly enhance the reliability, performance and safety of military operations,” said Tim Erbes, Orolia Defense & Security’s Director of Engineering. The acquisition also enables Talen-X’s existing resources, operations and capabilities to be scaled and accelerated to better support the warfighter.

At the Modern Day Marine and Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) exhibitions, Orolia Defense & Security is showcasing its latest technologies such as the BroadSim Wavefront GNSS simulator, ThreatBlocker jamming/spoofing detection and protection device and BroadShield threat detection software. Authorized for use with U.S. military signals such as GPS L1/L2, P, Y, and M-Code, Orolia’s Simulation and IDM solutions serve the most unique and challenging program requirements.

For more information about Orolia Defense & Security, visit www.OroliaDS.com.

Posted in MDM, Press Release | Comments Off on Orolia Defense & Security Announces Completed Acquisition of Talen-X