Paul Kim has developed an MS2000 replacement that incorporates an IR cover and utilizes two AA batteries.
PK Design Lab – Max IR Distress Marker
November 21st, 2019New Accessories From Mission Spec; WingIt and PackStraps-Enhanced
November 20th, 2019Mission Spec, LLC (KS) is releasing two new accessory items meant for integration with other pieces of kit.
Mission Spec WingIt™ adds additional PALS/MOLLE space to your chestrig of choice allowing for more essential equipment to be carried. The two (left and right) panels integrate with the users chestrig via the hook Velcro backing and the side strap buckles, for redundancy. Virtually no space is wasted between the WingIt panel and the chestrig itself (see video). Chem-light/glove hangers are also included with the design.
The WingIt is compatible with almost all current generation standard chestrigs. Available in two sizes (small and large) customers should reference the overview video or information available at MissionSpec.com to make sure they are ordering the correct size for their chestrig.
Mission Spec PackStraps™-Enhanced were designed to integrate with industry packs that utilize a 1.5” webbing interface (see video, shown with HSP FlatPack) and to offer the user a comfortable padded shoulder strap that will help reduce fatigue over a period of long use.
This product can be used as backpack straps only or to integrate with industry standard chestrigs such as the Mission Spec MagRack5 line, HSP; D3CR-M, D3CR(x), D3CR-H, and Spiritus brand chest rigs (not a comprehensive list).
Both items are immediately available in the full standard line of Mission Spec colors and patterns. Custom colors and patterns can be obtained in small or large quantities. USA made with USA sourced components, berry compliant, and carry a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Both items have been built on a custom-level numerous times for customers. It was decided that Mission Spec would add them both to its list of regular offerings. Dealer inquiries are welcome. Items come with proper UPC identification and retail packaging.
missionspec.com/products/wingit
missionspec.com/products/packstraps-enhanced
Innovative Hearing Protection May Protect Military Working Dogs Like The One Who Helped In The al-Baghdadi Raid
November 20th, 2019
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. (Nov. 20, 2019) — Military working dogs played a vital role in the recent raid and death of ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi; however, temporary and permanent hearing loss due to high-decibel noise in training, transport and operations put these animals at risk. Now, thanks to an Army small business innovation program, canines may have new gear to protect their ears.
Zeteo Tech, Inc., in partnership with Pete “Skip” Scheifele M.D., Ph.D., a retired Navy lieutenant commander, professor at the University of Cincinnati and leading animal audiology expert, developed the Canine Auditory Protection System, known as CAPS, to prevent short-term hearing loss in military working dogs.
“Even a short helicopter flight can affect a dog’s hearing, resulting in impaired performance and inability to hear the handler’s commands, which can hinder the mission,” said Dr. Stephen Lee, senior scientist at Army Research Office. “This new technology protects the canine while on missions and can extend the dog’s working life.”
The U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command supported the program as a part of a Small Business Innovation Research grant managed by ARO — an element of U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s Army Research Laboratory.
Military workings dogs are used for a variety of roles, including tactical operations, patrol, detection and specialized search. Until now hearing protection systems available were rigid, cumbersome and hard to put on the dog, with limited effectiveness in testing for the protection of canine hearing.
The CAPS uses lightweight, high-quality acoustic absorption materials to block unwanted sounds. Unlike conventional canine hearing protection, this solution is constructed of flexible materials that conform to the unique shape of a dog’s head. This flexibility ensures proper sealing around the ear and maximum sound reduction.
The snood-style headgear, resembling a close-fitting hood, uniformly distributes the pressure required to hold the hearing protection in place, while avoiding challenges associated with straps. At a little more than an inch thick, the device’s low profile will not be a hindrance for dogs working in tight spaces. It is also compatible with other gear used by working dogs, such as goggles.
The research team tested the headgear extensively with military working dogs, as well as federal law enforcement working dogs, for wearability, usability and comfort. The team also measured the hearing protection effectiveness during helicopter operations and found a significant reduction in short-term hearing loss.
“This new technology will extend canines ability to work in a wide range of environments in combination with the Soldier and autonomous systems that could greatly enhance situational awareness of the individual Soldier in the future and empower a broader use for military working dogs in operations,” Lee said.
“Zeteo Tech is excited to provide CAPS in response to a critical need for effective canine hearing protection in demanding environments,” said Michael McLoughlin, vice president of Zeteo Tech, Inc.
McLoughlin said Zeteo Tech is a Maryland-based small business founded in 2013 and dedicated to “developing and delivering solutions to address the health and welfare of the military and others who serve the nation.”
By U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory Public Affairs
USSOCOM Technical Experimentation for Night Vision Electro Optics
November 20th, 2019
On 03-06 February 2020, USSOCOM will host a Technical Experimentation (TE) event at Avon Park Air Force Range in Avon Park, Florida. The goal is to explore emerging technologies, technical applications and their potential to provide solutions for future SOF Night Vision Electro Optics (NVEO).
USSOCOM is in search of candidates from Industry, Academia and Government Labs to submit nomination package(s). Government will review and downselect for technologies to be demonstrated at the TE event.
Submit your technology related to the focus areas below for the opportunity to participate.
Technology Focus Areas
True Color Night Vision and Fused Imagery Sensors
True Color Night Vision for the Tactical Video System (TVS) /
Reconnaissance, Surveillance, Target Acquisition (RSTA)
Technical Surveillance Equipment (TSE) and RSTA
Submit NLT 2 December 2019 11:59 PM EST
Visit SAMS and begin with attachment 1.
Milipol 19 – Sestan-Busch Helmets
November 20th, 2019An SSD reader asked us to check out the latest upgrades to helmets from Croatian manufacturer Sestan-Busch.
The BK-ACH offers ACH level protection and is available in aramid of PE variants.
They’ve introduced a new visor system which attaches via bolts to the helmet and fits below the NVG shroud.
SureFire Stiletto and Stiletto Pro – Side by Side
November 20th, 2019Now that the Stiletto Pro is out, I thought it would be a good idea to show you the two models side-by-side. First off, the PRO model features an anodized aluminum body rather than the polymer body of the Stiletto.
This is a SureFire product so naturally, they pumped up the volume on output. They’ve integrated a new proprietary MaxVision Beam reflector for 1,000 lumens in high-output mode. According to SureFire, this increased output combined with the new reflector results in a 233% increase in candela over the initial model, which equates to an 82% increase in distance performance. The Stiletto Pro also offers the added versatility of a 300-lumen medium output and a 25-lumen low output.
The Stiletto Pro doesn’t just improve the amount of light it throws, there are a few other enhancements as well. For example, the activation button is recessed on the PRO model.
Additionally, you can swap the carry clip for bezel-up or bezel-down carry.
I already love the Stiletto. I’m looking forward to the Stiletto Pro.
Milipol 19 – 5.11 Tactical In French Europe Centrale Camouflage
November 20th, 2019Oh the things that you’ll see at Milipol that you’ll never see anywhere else.
As soon as you walk through the badge checking station you are greeted with a Disneyland of tactical goodness courtesy of Terrang MP-SEC whose booth dominates Hall 5 of Milipol. And looking around, you run across the wildest stuff, like this 5.11 Tactical Rapid Assault Shirt in French camouflage.
Milipol 19 – Aimpoint Introduces COMPM5b
November 20th, 2019
Aimpoint released the new COMPM5b which incorporates Bullet Drop Compensation. This is accomplished via interchangeable turrets for various ammunition. These can be tailor made for specific ammunition. The red dot sight also offers wind or lead compensation adjustment.
Other than that, it’s a standard 2 MOA Aimpoint; tough as nails and a 5 year battery life for a AAA battery for setting 7 and over 10 years on position 1-4 (10 red dot intensity adjustment settings including 2 night vision positions).
