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OPTIC: Transforming Mission Planning with Safety, Efficiency, and Innovation for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

May 15th, 2025

The proliferation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in civil works, emergency response, and military applications is the primary driver for development of the Operator’s Tool for Information Collection (OPTIC). Designed to meet operational needs, OPTIC leverages decades of experience to improve mission planning, operational tracking, and data-driven decisions for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).

“OPTIC is the direct result of real-world challenges to UAS operations in demanding environments,” said Brian Ellis, OPTIC Program Manager for the USACE Aviation Program Office (APO). “The design of the software is built with the end-user in mind, ensuring they have the tools necessary to execute missions safely, efficiently, and with greater confidence.” OPTIC streamlines data collection, reduces operational costs, and strengthens mission outcomes. OPTIC sets the conditions for UAS operators, even those with minimal aviation training, to safely and effectively collect survey data in all aspects of the National Airspace System.

From Paper to Digital

Mission planning once relied on manual processes and paper-based systems, such as the Army Mission Planning System (AMPS). While effective, these methods were labor-intensive and lacked adaptability. In response to that, the APO developed the Management Information System for Aviation and Remote Systems (MARS). It transitioned mission planning to a web-based platform that integrated personnel management, fleet tracking, and mission coordination.

“MARS marked a critical shift to digital mission planning, enhancing efficiency and situational awareness for USACE UAS operators,” Ellis said. “OPTIC builds upon this foundation, delivering a more advanced, feedback-driven solution tailored for today’s complex operational environments.” By continuing to refine and expand the mission-planning capabilities of OPTIC, the APO is committed to equipping UAS operators with the most advanced tools available.

Safety First

Safety is the primary consideration in all phases of UAS operations. The APO emphasizes rigorous protocols, adhering to both Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Army regulations. OPTIC plays a critical role in this effort by reducing the need for personnel in high-risk environments and equipping operators with comprehensive risk assessment tools to enhance mission safety and decision-making.

“The safe operation of aircraft is our highest priority,” Ray Illman, USACE APO Aviation Safety Officer said, “With the UAS program, we can execute critical tasks in hazardous environments while significantly reducing risk to personnel, property, and mission objectives.”

Efficiency and Precision in Action

OPTIC will take mission planning to new heights by integrating real-time data collection, predictive analytics, and in later phases, Artificial Intelligence (AI). These advancements will provide field UAS operators and mission planners with the ability to monitor projects with greater accuracy, optimize decision-making, and improve overall operational effectiveness.

“OPTIC reduces the barriers to entry for aerial data collection in even the busiest airspace,” Ellis said. “With multi-faceted aerial collection capabilities, users can gather data faster with enhanced precision and reduce operational risks.”

OPTIC’s development is structured in three phases, with foundational modules for personnel, fleet, and mission planning. Future phases will introduce a repository for processing, storage and dissemination of actionable data, expanded safety planning for larger UAS groups, advanced data consolidation, approved mobile device accessibility, and AI-driven tools to further optimize mission planning, execution, and decision making.

Maximizing Value Across USACE Districts

OPTIC’s capabilities directly translate into value for USACE by reducing timelines, improving outcomes, and optimizing resources. Its scalability ensures that it meets the needs of both military and civilian operations.

“The capabilities of UAS’ add significant value by driving down risk to personnel and improving fidelity through more accurate and detailed survey data, while reducing costs,” Ellis said. “By minimizing risk to personnel and providing highly detailed, accurate survey data, we can improve decision-making, reduce costs, and drive better project outcomes.”

Innovation and Collaboration

The development of OPTIC reflects the APO’s focus on continuous improvement, innovation, and cost-effective solutions. By leveraging in-house expertise, the APO is advancing mission planning capabilities while ensuring efficiency and adaptability. Additionally, collaboration with other federal agencies strengthens resource sharing and strategic partnerships, further enhancing UAS operations.

“We’re committed to incorporating the most innovative technology to maximize the safety and effectiveness of aerial survey data collection,” Ellis said. “Through investments in research and partnerships with industry leaders, we’re shaping the future of UAS mission planning and operational tracking.”

A Future-Focused Platform

By integrating real-time metrics, advanced analytics, and a Commander’s Dashboard, OPTIC equips UAS operators and leadership with a comprehensive operational view that enhances situational awareness and decision-making. This platform reflects the APO’s commitment to enabling safe, effective, and efficient UAS operations while maximizing resources.

“OPTIC is not just a tool; it’s the culmination of decades of expertise,” Ellis said. “It paves the way for smarter, faster, and more informed decision-making, ensuring mission success across the full scope of USACE UAS missions.”

With a phased development approach and a strong emphasis on safety, collaboration, and efficiency, OPTIC is set to transform UAS operations across USACE and beyond, providing UAS operators and decision-makers at all levels with enhanced capabilities to meet the demands of modern engineering challenges with confidence and precision.

OPTIC Development Phases

Phase 1: Direct Replacement of MARS (Q2 FY25)

Phase 1 will focus on developing three foundational modules to serve as a direct replacement for MARS:

Personnel Module: Tracks crewmember status, qualifications, currency, and regulatory compliance.
Fleet Module: Monitors the operational status, configuration compliance, and readiness of aviation assets.
Mission Planning Module: Facilitates mission airspace coordination, risk assessments, and compliance tracking.

These modules maintain the core functionality of MARS and incorporate automated alerts during the planning process to prevent regulatory or safety violations. Another Phase 1 feature will be the Leader’s Dashboard to provide situational awareness to decision makers on their UAS operator and system operational readiness to make more informed decisions for mission execution.

Phase 2: System Alerts and Notifications (Q1 FY26)

Phase 2 will enhance OPTIC’s functionality by incorporating a data repository to store and share data amongst other organizations in OPTIC. This phase will include:

Sensor-agnostic data repository to store and share collected data.
Email and text message notifications for upcoming deadlines, training requirements, and maintenance schedules.
Access via approved mobile devices to improve accessibility in field environments.
Dropdown menus to assist in personnel and equipment module ease of use.
Data consolidation and trend analysis of equipment issues and failure rates to improve UAS acquisition decisions.
Integration of software for regulatory compliance for mission planning and safety assessments for larger UAS.

These enhancements will ensure that all personnel and equipment remain in compliance with published regulatory requirements and postured to support USACE and its partner organizations.

Phase 3: AI Integration (Q2 FY27)

Phase 3 will focus on integrating advanced AI-driven features to further elevate OPTIC’s capabilities. These features will include:

Predictive analytics to identify potential risks and optimize mission planning.
AI-enhanced data processing to provide actionable insights in real time.
Advanced decision-support tools to assist commanders in making data-driven operational decisions.

By completing Phase 3, OPTIC will fully realize its potential as a cutting-edge platform for mission planning, operational tracking, and decision-making support.

By Amanda Rae Moreno

Posted in Army, Guest Post, UAS | Comments Off on OPTIC: Transforming Mission Planning with Safety, Efficiency, and Innovation for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Roark Aerospace Announce Production of “Canens” a Portable Device That Effectively Targets Fiber Optic UAV’s

May 15th, 2025

Roark Aerospace have today announced the commencement of production for their “Canens” C-UAS system.

The Canens system is designed to specifically target and neutralize UAV’s operating on fiber optic communications.

Fiber optic link based UAV’s were first discovered operating in the Ukranian conflict towards the end of 2024. They had previously been deemed impervious to traditional C-UAS solutions such as High Energy Microwaves with tactics reverting back to more archaic methods involving nets and small arms fire.

The Canens system has two operational functions that work in tandem to deliver a direct C-UAS solution for fiber optic link UAV’s.

The first element of the system is the use of Hyper Spectral and IR imaging to detect “in-use” optical cables. The combination of HSI and IR helps differentiate in real-time between cables that are deployed and are cables that are redundant from previous operations. In addition, the use of HSI can also allow operators to determine the likely distance that the UAV has flown at the point of identification, this can provide onward operational solutions for targeting operators.

The second element of the system is the use of a steerable and adjustable electrohydraulic shockwave to massively increase interferometric noise around the fiber optic cable. The increase in interferometric noise disrupts the signal between the UAV and the operator which, in the case of fiber optics, results in the UAV losing power and control, it will simply crash to the ground.

The electrohydraulic shockwave is created by thousands of electrohydraulic transducers that are formed of miniscule, 3D printed titanium microelectrodes embedded in epoxy and set in a basin based design. The shockwave is adjustable and steerable either by a manual operator or by the Plexus automated targetting system built by Roark.

Canens will be available in Q3 of 2025 with pre-orders being taken currently. Canens will initially be available in portable and sentry units as well as vehicle mounted, a hand-held variant is due for release in Q4 2025.

roark-aerospace.com

Posted in International, Press Release, UAS | 7 Comments »

Catch Up With Hudson Supplies At These May Events

May 15th, 2025

Hudson Supplies May Events:

Rampart Range Day (May 27th)

OpEx (May 28-29)

Cansec (May 28-29)

Posted in Advertiser, CANSEC, OpEx, Rampart Range Day | Comments Off on Catch Up With Hudson Supplies At These May Events

Red Cat Expands Maritime Domain Capabilities with Battle-Tested Unmanned Surface Vessels

May 15th, 2025

Strategic partnership with leading USV company enhances Red Cat’s multi-domain capabilities and capitalizes on rapidly growing global demand for autonomous, kinetic-capable platforms

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 14, 2025 — Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat”), a leading provider of drone technology for military, government, and commercial operations, today announced the expansion of its multi-domain Family of Systems with a new line of Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs). This strategic move marks Red Cat’s official entry into the rapidly evolving maritime autonomy market and reinforces its position as a provider of comprehensive, interoperable unmanned systems for air, land, and sea operations.

Meeting the Demands of Modern Conflict

Red Cat’s entry into the maritime domain builds on existing inroads, including a partnership with Ocean Power Technologies to integrate its aerial drones with autonomous maritime platforms. Red Cat’s own line of kinetic-capable USVs marks a significant step forward. The decision is a direct response to rising geopolitical tensions and a shift in U.S. defense priorities toward re-asserting American maritime dominance globally. Red Cat is well positioned to deliver American-manufactured solutions that address these urgent operational needs of the U.S. and allied naval forces.

“This is a pivotal moment for Red Cat as we evolve from an aerial-first drone company into a true multi-domain defense provider,” said Jeff Thompson, Red Cat CEO. “This expansion into maritime platforms opens significant opportunities in a fast-growing and urgently needed defense sector. As the U.S. and its allies confront rising maritime threats, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, there’s a clear demand for powerful, proven, and scalable USVs made in America. With these USVs, we’re helping to shape the future of autonomous warfare and strengthening the foundation of U.S. defense manufacturing.”

Introducing Red Cat’s New Line of USVs

Red Cat is bringing its line of USVs to market in partnership with a leading global manufacturer of USVs. The system is tested daily in actual combat and designed to operate either autonomously or in manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) configurations. The technology already has 10,000+ hours of operating time in live combat missions. Moving into production will accelerate Red Cat’s roadmap for USVs that integrate seamlessly with its existing family of ISR and unmanned aerial systems, supporting multi-domain and swarming operations.

“This system has been used day in and day out in the current conflict, accumulating tens of thousands of hours in real combat operations and achieving dozens of successful kinetic engagements against enemy assets, more than any navy since World War II,” Thompson stated. “By partnering with a company that has extensive proven experience and is well beyond the proof-of-concept stage, we gain a substantial competitive advantage as we enter this market.”

Red Cat is preparing to start production in Q3 of a seven-meter Expeditionary Multi-Role Craft developed to meet the demands of high-speed, long-range, kinetic maritime operations. It is built for larger payloads, extended endurance, and increased firepower. The version has enhanced range, payload capacity, and mission flexibility making it ideal for deep-strike missions, anti-ship warfare, and coastal interdiction in contested zones.

Leaders in Ship Building and Marine Innovation

Red Cat has assembled an elite team of master boatbuilders, drawing from industry leaders with centuries of collective experience. Renowned for pioneering advanced jet propulsion systems and crafting superior, American-made hulls, our team brings unmatched expertise to every vessel. Boatbuilding at scale demands profound knowledge and precision—qualities our proven professionals deliver with decades of hands-on experience, ensuring excellence in every detail.

For more information about Red Cat’s mission and its line of Unmanned Surface Vessels visit www.redcat.red/USV.

Posted in Maritime, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Red Cat Expands Maritime Domain Capabilities with Battle-Tested Unmanned Surface Vessels

X-Pac Tactical Fabrics Take LOF Defense Systems Gear to the Next Level

May 15th, 2025

Since 2008, LOF (Line of Fire) Defense Systems headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, has been redefining tactical gear with innovative, lightweight body armor systems engineered for real-world performance. Focused on durability and wearer survivability, LOF Defense System’s product lineup includes plate carrier platforms, duty belt systems, and K9 protection gear—all designed and manufactured in-house using lean production methods.

The Discovery of X-Pac® Fabrics

During an R&D initiative to develop a laser-cut MOLLE system, LOF Defense Systemsnarrowly avoided investing in a soon-to-be-discontinued material. After failed experiments bonding layers of nylon and ripstop fabrics, which resulted in broken and stretched materials, the founders took a deeper dive into material science. Theirattention to sailcloth technology where the fabric does not stretch – lead them to X-Pac fabrics, developed the Dimension-Polyant, the world’s leading sailcloth manufacturer.

“We were instantly impressed that X-Pac fabric was available in all the MultiCam® colors and IR (Infrared) compliant,” said Darren Schulte, CEO, LOF Defense Systems. “Upon receiving sample yardage, we developed a few products to give to a couple of K9 units and it performed perfectly. They loved it and we have been using X-Pac® fabrics ever since. It’s damn near indestructible.”

Since then, X-Pac Fabrics have become the foundational ingredient in LOF Defense System’s product line.

Solving Critical Design Challenges

One of LOF Defense System’s significant challenges was sourcing a camouflaged fabric on both sides. Traditional options lacked this dual-pattern feature. Taking on a new R&D project, LOF Defense System’s figured out a way of bonding two layers of X-Pac X50 fabric using a 100% waterproof adhesive resistant to saltwater and freshwater environments. This innovation led to a virtually indestructible material ideal for their laser-cut MOLLE gear.

“Our primary goal is to provide our brand partners with the best textile solution possible,” said James Lang, Sales Manager, X-Pac® Tactical. “We’ve had an amazing long-term and productive brand collaboration with the LOF Defense Systems team, and we look forward to many more.”

Discover LOF Defense System’s Products

While most LOF Defense System’s sales come from law enforcement and military clients, its products are also available to civilians through their website.

Please visit X-Pac® Tactical for more information on its performance fabrics.

About X-Pac® Tactical

Born from X-Pac® legacy on the world’s most challenging peaks and longest trails, X-Pac® Tactical Fabrics, are lightweight, durable, incredibly strong and 100% waterproof. At the forefront of innovation, these fabrics offer peak performance in the harshest environments. Leveraging a proprietary lamination technology, X-Pac® Tactical Fabrics combine trusted face fabrics and strategic fiber reinforcement; specifically designed for the demanding missions. This unique construction elevates equipment’s functionality and longevity. TRUST ONLY X-PAC® www.x-pactactical.com.

About Dimension-Polyant

Dimension-Polyant is the world’s largest sailcloth producer with decades of experience in highly technical sailing fabrics. Founded in 1966, Dimension-Polyant has consistently set the standard with their high-quality products and precision workmanship. The company is known for reliable customer care, world-class innovation, and conscious efforts to make products that have as little of an impact on the environment as possible. Its production facilities are in Putnam, CT USA and Kempen, Germany. As of 2021, the company is climate neutral. www.dimension-polyant.com. Dimension-Polyant is owned by Sioen Industries, Belgium sioen.com/en.

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Materials | Comments Off on X-Pac Tactical Fabrics Take LOF Defense Systems Gear to the Next Level

Reptilia Launches the CQG – AK Grip, Purpose-Built for the AKM Platform

May 15th, 2025

Hillsborough, North Carolina — May 15, 2025 — Reptilia® is proud to announce the official release of the CQG™ – AK Grip, the newest addition to its growing lineup of purpose-built firearm accessories. Designed specifically for AKM platforms, the CQG AK enhances weapon control, ergonomics, and shooter comfort—all while maintaining the rugged reliability users expect from Reptilia products.

Built from high-strength reinforced nylon, the CQG AK offers a more vertical grip angle than traditional AK grips, an enhanced beavertail for improved hand positioning, and aggressive front and rear texturing for a secure hold in any environment. The design encourages a higher, more natural grip that improves control and responsiveness across a variety of shooting styles, from fast-paced training to duty use.

“Our customers asked for a better grip solution for their AKM pattern rifles, and we answered.”

“The CQG AK carries forward the same focus on ergonomics, durability, and simplicity that defines all of our products.”

Key Features:

Optimized for AK Platforms: Fits most AK47-pattern rifles and pistols
More Vertical Grip Angle: Promotes a higher, more controlled hand position
Enhanced Beavertail: Improves comfort and weapon control
Aggressive Texturing: Better grip in all weather conditions
Built from Reinforced Nylon: Lightweight and ultra-durable
Made in the USA

The CQG – AK is available now at reptiliacorp.com in four color options:

Black
FDE / Peanut Butter
Field Drab / 30118
Grey / Q

For more information, visit:

www.reptiliacorp.com

Posted in Advertiser, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 1 Comment »

Helikon-Tex Hawaiian Shirts Now Available

May 15th, 2025

The Hawaiian shirt designs we previewed during Enforce Tac are now available for order.

Just in time for warm weather and a trip to the beach, these shirts offer the colorful vibe of 1980s Miami, as in Miami Vice.

In the patterns you’ll find more than just tropical flowers – each pattern references historical events, military equipment, and specialized operations.

In addition to the cool patterns, these shirts have some great features as well.

– a sunglasses loop
– a hidden zippered pocket
– an integrated microfiber lens wipe

They offer a loose fit and are made from a soft and breathable Cotton Blend (97% cotton, 3% elastane).

Original prints, each with its own story:

Cassino – a tribute to the Battle of Monte Cassino, one of the most significant WWII battles involving Polish forces. The design features symbolic red poppies, trumpeter Emil Czech, charging soldiers with bayonets, and period weapons such as the Sten and Lee-Enfield. It is a bold shirt with a powerful historical message.

Pacific – a bright design inspired by iconic films like Pulp Fiction and Miami Vice. You’ll spot waterborne operations within the blue waves: RIB boats, armed divers, and a Navy SEAL helicopter. A perfect pick for fans of fast-paced action and pop culture classics – in a summer edition.

Dark Ops – a Hawaiian shirt for those who prefer subdued tones and hidden details. Inspired by CQB (Close Quarters Battle), this design incorporates outlines of tactical gear: an MK18 rifle, an offensive pistol with mounted light, and flashbang grenades. It is ideal for anyone who values subtle aesthetics with a military edge.

Brushstroke – a fusion of Hawaiian ease and Rhodesian camouflage from the 60s and 70s. The pattern is built from bold green and brown patches over a sandy background, featuring silhouettes of weapons such as the AK-47 and FN FAL. A unique blend of history and style that’s sure to turn heads.

In addition, there’s a “Beach Bag”, a 500D Cordura tote in each of the shirt patterns:

– removable shoulder strap
– load-stabilizing straps
– soft-lined phone pocket
– key hook inside a mini wallet
– hook and loop panel for personalization

helikon-tex.com/en/mens-camo-hawaiian-shirts

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing | Comments Off on Helikon-Tex Hawaiian Shirts Now Available

Medal of Honor Recipients Offer Insights at SOF Week

May 15th, 2025

TAMPA, Fla. — Of the 3,536 Medals of Honor presented since its establishment in 1861, only 61 recipients are alive today, and only a handful of them come from the U.S. special operations forces community.

Yesterday, three of those SOF recipients attended a panel discussion at Special Operations Forces Week 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

Retired Army Sgt. Maj. Thomas P. Payne, retired Army Master Sgt. Earl D. Plumlee and Army Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew O. Williams shared experiences and lessons learned from their heroic actions during an hourlong conversation that emphasized the importance of trust, mentorship and resilience in leadership.

All three men explained what being a Medal of Honor recipient means to them on a personal level.

“Every time we put the medal on, it’s a gracious gift to sit here and talk about it,” said Williams, who received the medal for his actions of valor during Operation Commando Wrath in Afghanistan in 2008.

He added that a surprising number of people are unaware of the medal’s significance.

“And that significance has nothing to do with the guy wearing it, or the action that they took; but it’s the idea that you’re willing to put yourself and your life on the line for the guys [to the] left and [to the] right of you,” he said.

Plumlee, who received his medal for saving numerous lives by mounting a successful counterattack under heavy fire against Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan in 2013, explained that he shared his ceremony with two other recipients, both of whom received the medal posthumously.

“That really brought some gravity,” he said.

He also explained that, with credible eyewitness testimony being a requirement for receiving the medal, many SOF personnel may be just as deserving of such an award but will never receive the recognition.

“I know a lot of guys who have done very heroic things, but it’s not captured and provable, [so] there’s no medal for it,” Plumlee said.

“It’s humbling, and I like to say that I’m wearing [the medal] for [the U.S. Special Operations Command] and vast amounts of operators who have done very heroic things for very little recognition, and [who] just went back to work the next day,” he added.

“Just letting the medal be a part of my life [has] required me to grow up,” said Payne, who received his MOH for saving 70 hostages with little regard for his own life during a 2015 rescue operation in Iraq.

“It’s just a process to live up to the standard of wearing the Medal of Honor, which is hard — every single day — and so, it’s a ‘beautiful burden,'” Payne added, quoting his friend and fellow recipient, retired Marine Cpl. Kyle Carpenter.

The three men also spoke about their shared passion for continued service following their time in uniform.

Plumlee said he gets the most out of inspiring others to serve their country.

“I love talking to people [who] were not thinking about serving — or if they’re dabbling in it — and really, you know, mentoring [them] and lighting that fire,” Plumlee said, adding that the country is always in need of men and women to sign up for military service and “take ownership of the country.”

“Every politician’s speech and every successful business is built on the bedrock of the security that the [Defense Department] provides,” he said.

Williams also said he enjoys encouraging others to serve, if not in the military, then in some other manner that benefits the country.

“One thing that really shocked me when I received the medal … was how much I enjoyed talking to other people about it and just perpetuating the values that we stand for … especially service, and how important service actually is,” Williams said.

“I like just talking about that — engaging specifically with kids and students — and going to schools and hoping to provide a little bit of a glimmer of hope for our country,” he added.

Payne said SOF operators like himself and the others on stage have lots of friends buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, and that he and his fellow SOF veterans are fortunate to be alive.

“I’ve just tried to live an extraordinary life in honor of my teammates … We’re on ‘plus time’ now,” he said, adding that, despite having been medically retired from the Army, he continues to find ways to serve his country.

“There’s a passion to serve still [and] I’m going to continue to serve in different ways,” Payne said.

By Matthew Olay, DOD News

Posted in Army, Guest Post, History, Profession of Arms, SOF Week | Comments Off on Medal of Honor Recipients Offer Insights at SOF Week