Wilcox RAPTAR Xe

Arnold Defense Announces the First Order for FLETCHER Laser Guided Rocket Launcher

April 9th, 2019

Arnold Defense, the St Louis based manufacturer of 2.75-inch rocket launchers, is pleased to announce receipt of the first order for their unique FLETCHER Land Based, Laser Guided Rocket Launcher. The FLETCHER 2.75-inch/70mm weapon system was first unveiled just 18 months ago at DSEi in London. Since the launch, FLETCHER has been showcased at a number of international exhibitions, generating exceptional levels of interest whilst Arnold Defense have continued with an ongoing development and investment program to broaden and prove the system’s already revolutionary capability.

With FLETCHER, Arnold Defense has made a bold departure from the traditional concept of use for 2.75-inch rocket systems; that of an area suppression weapon delivered by aviation assets.  Arnold’s evolution has FLETCHER using advanced rocket-guidance technology to utilize ground-based launch platforms, meeting the demands of modern, vehicle-mounted and dismounted asymmetric warfare.

FLETCHER’s unique design allows for ease of operation, maintenance and sustainment.  It employs an existing suite of guidance modules, rockets and warheads, already used in well-known programs and readily available to global forces.  FLETCHER is supported by a team of global defense industry companies, collaborating under Arnold Defense’s leadership to combine their complimentary expertise.  

The first customer for the FLETCHER system, who cannot yet be disclosed, has committed to purchasing FLETCHER due to the system’s ability to accurately engage targets at a range of over 5km, with a 100% hit rate in recent test-firings.   This first order is for an initial batch of launchers, with a larger order expected to follow once successful user trials and demonstrations have been completed.

Mike Brown, Vice President and COO of Arnold Defense said, “Given that the FLETCHER concept was unveiled to the public only 18 months ago, Arnold Defense is delighted to have signed what we anticipate to be the first of many contracts for the supremely capable FLETCHER surface-based rocket launcher.” He added, “FLETCHER has generated huge interest globally with its unique capability to deliver organic, long-range precision firepower to even the smallest tactical element. It is great to see serious international interest now developing into firm orders.”

www.arnolddefense.com or www.rocket-launchers.com

Polaris Brings Fire and Rescue RANGER, PRO XD, GEM and Taylor-Dunn Vehicles to FDIC

April 9th, 2019

Right-sized vehicles deliver on- and off-road, in- and outdoor, gas, diesel and electric options

 

Minneapolis, April 8, 2019 – Polaris Government and Defense has expanded its current offering of the popular off-road and over-the-curb RANGER fire and rescue vehicles to include the street-legal GEM and indoor-use Taylor-Dunn electric vehicles. These three vehicles will be on display at FDIC International April 11-13 in Lucas Oil® Stadium, Indianapolis in booth 8229 and the PRO XD will be displayed by Darley Defense. The turn-key vehicles can improve response time and reach without compromising mobility, budget or effectiveness.

 

“Fire and rescue personnel require extensive reach to be effective, and these mobility solutions are designed to expand that reach to help improve response time both urban and off-road, indoors and out – where cars, trucks or helicopters cannot operate,” said Jed Leonard, vice president, Polaris Government and Defense.

The Polaris RANGER is integral for fire departments across the country and has been since its introduction in 1998. RANGER helps to improve response time and reach to challenging locations, including narrow passage ways and secluded lots, as well as rugged, off-road trails, beaches, and park terrain. The vehicle’s excellent sightlines and mobility also make it ideal for city events and heavily populated areas. RANGER is also budget friendly when compared to full-size vehicles because it is less expensive to purchase, operate, and maintain.

 

The RANGER firefighting units are Polaris’ off-road and over-the-curb solution, incorporating a professional system that is familiar, having been developed with years of firefighter input by RKO™ Enterprises. This RANGER incorporates a capable pump, hose and reel, a combination tank for water and a compressed air foam suppression system, and the ability draft from a water source. Mounting options can accommodate preferences for different departments and uses.

Rescue RANGER vehicles incorporate a rear attendant seat and a stokes rescue basket. Rescue personnel can select between the full-length or compact basket for shorter overall length when not in use. Polaris is also providing a combination fire and rescue package, which includes the fire tank and equipment as well as the stokes rescue basket.

 

The Taylor-Dunn Bigfoot is Polaris’ all-electric solution for indoor and closed campus use with an ergonomic design, narrow width, and tight turning radius. The fire and rescue Bigfoot options include non-marking tires, rescue skid, attendant seat, emergency lighting, AED and medical bag storage areas, siren, and firefighting equipment.

 

The GEM eL XD is Polaris’ all-electric street-legal fire and rescue vehicle. GEM is the first commercially produced, street-legal, low-speed vehicle in the U.S. providing a sustainable and economical option for fire and rescue personnel – GEM vehicles have zero emissions and low operating costs. The fire and rescue GEM has a full gurney, attendant seat, oxygen bottle bracket, two IV bag clips, optional AED and medical bag storage.

 

The PRO XD is Polaris’ diesel utility task vehicle (UTV) and will be on display in the Darley Defense booth at FDIC. The vehicle was designed for the sole purpose of work, with an increased payload, greater durability and better serviceability. It is highly customizable, including the ability to incorporate fire and rescue equipment.

Each of the vehicles maintain the option for the rear equipment skids to be removed all together for use by other departments or jobs from public works, to parades. Custom graphics can be added so vehicles match the rest of the fleet.

 

Industry expert RKO™ Enterprises develops the skids and integrates the equipment to provide the best, finished vehicles for our customers. Reliability and peace of mind of these products is delivered by Polaris through validation, procurement, and support. RKO™ shares our commitment to quality selecting proven components known for durability and performance, and quality installation for a vehicle we all stand behind.

 

Polaris fire and rescue RANGER, PRO XD, GEM and Taylor-Dunn vehicles are available for government discount pricing. Customers can contact the Polaris Government and Defense team for more information, or to request a quote.

 

Polaris is a unique vehicle supplier that harnesses its 65-year legacy of mobility leadership, rich heritage of innovation, and vast commercial enterprise resources, along with a team of dedicated government, defense, and technology experts and operators to deliver the products that customers need to get their missions done. This winning combination of Polaris performance, procurement simplicity, premium service, training, support, and sustainment results in a best-value for government and defense customers.

Bridgedale Introduces First Waterproof Sock Range

April 9th, 2019

Britain’s number one outdoor performance sock brand, Bridgedale, is introducing its first 100% waterproof sock range called Storm this spring.  

Developed to provide wet weather protection and day long comfort, it combines Bridgedale’s unique FusionTech™ with a HydroTech™ Waterproof, Breathable and Windproof membrane.  The new Storm range has been designed and tested to perform to the highest standards in the wettest conditions when hiking, biking or running.

Continuing to build on Bridgedale’s century-long sock making heritage, the 100% Waterproof Storm sock guarantees foot protection and comfort on the wettest trails. Even though Bridgedale has been keeping feet warm, dry and protected for many years, providing a good level of water resistance, this is the brand’s first 100% Waterproof sock range.

Using the latest production processes, the Storm sock combines advanced yarn technology with progressive design to ensure the waterproof, extremely breathable and windproof Storm sock never lets down any outdoor enthusiast.

Inner Sock

The next-to-the-skin inner sock, made from up to 60% Merino Wool, that’s renowned for its anti-bacterial and anti-odour properties, is combined with wicking synthetic fibres to deliver a stable temperature and move moisture from the skin’s surface. The lining features a terry loop underfoot cushion that extends around both the toes and over the heel to ensure comfortable feet in wet conditions.

HydroTech™ membrane

The three-layer construction features at its core, a Waterproof, Breathable, high stretch and Windproof HydroTech™ permeable membrane, which when laminated to the inner and outer layers creates a 100% Waterproof stretchable and good fitting sock.

Bridgedale is confident that, after a three-year rigorous testing period, it can confidently guarantee the minimum specifications for the HydroTech™ membrane*:

Membrane breathability: moisture permeability >12,000mg/m*m/24h

Membrane waterproofness: Hydrostatic head >8,000mm

Outer Sock

The Nylon outer protects the waterproof sock against abrasion from footwear. LYCRA® provides excellent stretch to ensure the sock is easy to pull on and off and guaranteeing a snug, comfortable, high performance fit and a sock that won’t fall down during activities.  As well as LYCRA® running through the inner and outer sock, it is also added around the arch of the foot to keep the sock firmly in position, reducing any bunching or rucking inside the shoe or boot that could cause irritation.

The Storm sock is available in three lengths:

Ankle: fitting just above ankle bone, this length is perfect for running or walking in wet conditions

Boot: designed to fit around the middle of the calf, this length keeps the lower leg warm and dry and can be paired with waterproof trousers or gaiters to prevent water ingress at the top. Boot length is ideal for mountaineering, hillwalking and mountain biking.

Knee: giving full lower leg coverage and protection, this maximum length is perfect for wading through streams or rivers or running or riding in shorts when the weather turns colder.

The three weights available are:

Lightweight

Close fitting and designed for activities where maximum breathability and minimum insulation is required.  Perfect for warmer weather, high octane activities such as mountain biking and trail running. Pair with Bridgedale’s Coolmax Liner to keep feet fresher for longer.

Midweight

With a terry cushioned footbed and ankle, this sock is idea for outdoor activities where a good balance of warmth and breathability is required, from biking and running to hiking and mountaineering

Heavyweight

This sock has full terry cushioning throughout and is perfect for cold weather activities such as winter walking, hiking and biking.  Pair with Bridgedale’s Thermal Liner for more extreme cold weather activities such as winter mountaineering and multi-day expeditions.

For further information on the new Waterproof Storm sock range please visit www.bridgedale.com.

KC Eusebio Wins ZEV Technologies 2019 US Steel National With ZEV Technologies O.Z-9

April 9th, 2019

ZEV Technologies is pleased to announce its first O.Z-9 Carry optics National Win

ZEV would like to congratulate KC Eusebio on his 2019 US Steel National win. Using his new KC Competition model O.Z-9, KC not only came in first, but set a new national record for the carry optics division. This marks the first win with an O.Z-9, and with KC running this gun in competitions, we are confident that there will be many more to follow.

An elated KC Eusebio had this to say following his win, “This was an amazing victory for me. I was able to bring home a National title and record with not only a ZEV Pistol but MY very own model. It was also something near and dear to me since this is the launch of the new OZ9 platform and it proves that this pistol is a definite upgrade from its predecessors. I can’t wait to bring home more trophies and set new records with the OZ9.”

KC set a new National Record Overall time of 78.27 and owns the bragging rights of being the first person to break 80 seconds with a Carry Optics pistol.

Match Details
Match- 2019 US Steel Nationals
Location – Covington, Georgia US
Placement – 1st place Carry Optics
Equipment – Zev OZ9 KC Competition Model

KC’s new O.Z-9 model will be shipping to dealers across the country starting in May. If you’re attending the NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Indianapolis this month, stop by the ZEV Technologies booth #7869 and check out KCs new O.Z-9 for yourself.

Zevtech.com

INVISIO Receives SEK million 111 Order from a New Customer in the US

April 8th, 2019

INVISIO has, through its newly awarded GSA contract, received an order of SEK 111 million from a new customer within the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

The order includes INVISIO communications and hearing protection solutions and will be delivered during April – September 2019.

“We are proud to deliver our advanced communication systems to new units within the U.S. Department of Defense. INVISIO’s systems are world leading in its segment and with this order we are strengthening our position further. We are particularly satisfied that this order was received through our newly awarded GSA contract,” said Lars Højgård Hansen, CEO of INVISIO.

www.invisio.com

Editor’s Note: see CASL announcement.

Sneak Peak-Agilite Team Wendy Exfil Covers

April 8th, 2019

Agilite launches a series of technical covers compatible with four of Team Wendy‘s EXFIL helmets.

There will be three versions, one that will cover both the Carbon Bump and LTP Helmets, a second for the Exfil Ballistic or Ballistic SL with the traditional rail 2.0 and a third version for Exfil ballistics fitted with the brand new Rail 3.0.

In addition there will be an optional universal counterweight/battery pack pouch that will integrate with the covers. 

See more about Agilite’s new Team Wendy covers here.

For government price quotes email govsales@agilitegear.com

Max Talk Monday 17: Immediate Action Drill: Fight Through! Live Fire Drill

April 8th, 2019

This is the seventeenth installment of ‘Max Talk Monday’ which shares select episodes from a series of instructional videos. Max Velocity Tactical (MVT) has established a reputation on the leading edge of tactical live fire and force on force training. MVT is dedicated to developing and training tactical excellence at the individual and team level.

This video is a drill from the Texas Class 2019. It may look a little different from what many would expect for an immediate action drill, but specific training objectives are being exercised. This drill simulates, using a five man team, an aggressive immediate action drill for surprise enemy contact, in this case flank (right), best for use in close country. In this drill, there are eight mannikin targets hidden in positions of cover / concealment – there are no typical targets, simply the manikins concealed in natural firing positions beside / behind trees and scrub. .

The specific training sequence / objectives of the drill are:
-React to contact (flank right).
-Conduct a ‘cover shoot’, designed to kill enemy in their concealed positions.
-‘Fight Through’ to the limit of advance (LOA).

Specifically, the fight through is being conducted as a skirmish line, with buddy pairs operating independently but in conjunction with each other, controlled by the centrally located team leader.
‘Move / Fire’ is being conducted, a different technique to standard fire and movement, where fire is generated continuously both when static and while advancing. In close country, Move / Fire is a technique that in this case is used to generate a large amount of continuous fire to aid a smaller team in winning the firefight.

Detailed explanations can be found in the MVT Tactical Manual: Small Unit Tactics.

Max is a tactical trainer and author, a lifelong professional soldier with extensive military experience. He served with British Special Operations Forces, both enlisted and as a commissioned officer; a graduate of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Max served on numerous operational deployments, and also served as a recruit instructor. Max spent five years serving as a paramilitary contractor in both Iraq and Afghanistan; the latter two years working for the British Government in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

Website: Max Velocity Tactical

YouTube: Max Velocity Tactical

SOCOM Begins Procurement Of Communications Accessory Suite Land

April 8th, 2019

Over the weekend, the US Army’s Program Management Office for Special Operations Forces Survival, Support and Equipment Services issued two J&As for the purchase of Communications Accessory Suite Land (CASL) components via GSA. CASL was envisioned as a technologically advanced Communications Accessory Suite compatible and interoperable with the Next Generation Handheld (NGHH) radio (and other legacy radio systems), consisting of a Push-To-Talk, high noise Headset (circumaural or in-the-ear) and associated cables.

Specifically, SOCOM plans to purchase the Ops-Core AMP Communications Headset, Invisio X5 Headset and V60 PTT.

Although, both components of the system were selected almost a year ago, there were apparently software issues which needed to be worked out with SOF radio manufacturer Harris Corp, before fielding could begin.