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Bombardier Defense Delivers First Global 6500 Aircraft To The U.S. Army’s HADES Program

November 27th, 2024

Bombardier Defense delivered the first Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft in support of the United States Army’s High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System (HADES) program during a ceremony held at Bombardier Group’s U.S. Headquarters in Wichita, Kansas

The Global 6500 is a proven platform providing range, speed, reliability and endurance. It represents the ideal fixed-wing solution for the U.S. Army’s next-generation intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft, flying higher, faster and farther than legacy airborne sensor platforms

With the ability to deploy in all weather conditions, and the support of Bombardier’s 24/7 worldwide services network, Bombardier’s Global family of aircraft has become the platform of choice for over 10 different mission types

The Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft delivered to the U.S. Army in support of the HADES program.

Bombardier Defense celebrated the delivery of the first Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft to the United States Army in support of the High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System (HADES) program. Bolstered by the Global 6500’s high-performance capabilities, the fixed-wing platform will contribute to strengthening the U.S. Army’s aerial deep sensing abilities and marks a significant milestone toward the United States’ goal of modernizing its aerial military intelligence.

Joined by U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS), State of Kansas officials, and U.S. Army leaders, the celebration highlighted the delivery of the first prototype airframe for the next-generation intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) solution and the beginning of the next stage of the program to integrate systems.

“Bombardier Defense is honored to support the U.S. Army with the delivery of the first Global 6500aircraft, a high-performance platform that possesses the speed, endurance-at-range and altitude capabilities to support deep-sensing for the Army of tomorrow,” said Steve Patrick, Vice President of Bombardier Defense. “This best-in-class jet is the future-proofed solution to provide the U.S. Army with the capabilities needed to face current and future threats.”

“We are proud of the partnership with Bombardier Defense and the mission-focused professionals in the State of Kansas. We remain excited about the opportunities we can unlock by pairing the performance, versatility and reliability of the Global 6500 with modern payloads aligned to priority intelligence requirements. HADES is the centerpiece of the Army’s collection strategy, and the Global 6500 is the system that brings that strategy to life. This aircraft gives us the range, payload capacity, speed and endurance to deliver timely, relevant and responsive capabilities for the full spectrum of Army and Joint collection requirements.” – Andrew Evans, Director, HQDA G-2 ISR Task Force

“The partnership between Bombardier, the U.S. Army and the Wichita workforce has produced a next-generation aircraft equipped to meet the demands of warfare in a new era of technology,” said U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS). “The HADES aircraft has the tools needed to deter threats, conduct surveillance and help keep our country safe. This is the start of a new chapter in the aviation capabilities of our military and continues Kansas’ legacy of defense manufacturing.”

Fixed-wing platforms like Bombardier’s Global 6500aircraft, which flies faster, longer, and higher than legacy airborne sensor platforms, offer a significant advantage toward enhancing performance of aerial ISR missions. The Global 6500 provides several advantages for military entities, such as reliability, operational reach, and expanded operating areas. With a maximum endurance of up to 18 hours, and up to 750 flight hours between maintenance intervals, and part of the Global family that has an impressive 99.83% dispatch reliability, the Global 6500 aircraft is an ideal choice to accomplish operational objectives such as deep sensing.

Bombardier Defense has dedicated in-house engineering and support teams available 24/7 worldwide with the ability to incorporate modifications tailored to the customer’s need with complete certification capabilities across the full spectrum of civilian, military and hybrid operations. Bombardier brings decades of experience working with special mission operators and renowned mission systems integrators to adapt its proven platform for critical operations worldwide.

Posted in Army, Aviation, Contracts, ISR, Press Release | No Comments »

2024 NDIA Future Forces Conference Poster #7 – Scalable Suppression Technology

November 27th, 2024

The Thunderbeast Arms Ultra50 suppressor technology is available in .338 and .300 configurations.

As always, the POC data is on the poster for those interested in learning more.

Posted in Ammo, NDIA | No Comments »

Kimber Releases High Capacity 1911 – the 2K11

November 27th, 2024

TROY, AL — Kimber, Mfg., Inc., is excited to announce their latest introduction with the 2K11.

Kimber continues to add to their exciting line of product releases for 2024 with this latest introduction, the 2K11. This all-new high capacity 1911 incorporates a number of features that elevate the performance of this product category above any current production variant.

The new Kimber 2K11 debuts in a standard and target configuration and each model is chambered in 9mm as well as 45 ACP. The standard model comes with 3 magazines and 1 C&H® optic mounting plate for Trijicon RMR type footprints. Three additional optic mounting plates are available to support a variety of preferences. The target models also come standard with 3 magazines and 1 C&H® optic mounting plate, plus the target models feature a ported slide, adjustable rear target sight as well as a Kimber exclusive Stan Chen Customs® competition magwell.

Designed from hammer to muzzle to incorporate elements many consumers have asked for, the 2K11 features an external extractor for increased reliability and durability. It also features a type III hard anodized aluminum grip module. The 2K11 also has improved internal geometry that enhances the reliability of feeding the high-capacity magazines. Finally, the Kimber signature GT Trigger is unlike any other production trigger on the market. Breaking at a consistent 3.5lbs – there is no other production trigger on the market that can match the sharp wall, crisp break and performance of a Kimber. This combined with the patent pending tool-less guide rod for ease of disassembly and cleaning highlights 5 unique attributes that set the Kimber 2K11 apart from every other model on the market.

Everett Deger, Director of Marketing and Communications stated: “We were determined to produce the very best high capacity 1911 and deliver a superior value. The 2K11 has several unique features that come standard that you have to have customized in the aftermarket to achieve what you get out of the box with Kimber.”

Like every Kimber currently in their vast line up, the 2K11 comes with a limited Lifetime Warranty. See the full lineup of Kimber firearms on their website kimberamerica.com. Because a Kimber is What All Guns Should Be™.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | No Comments »

Gentex Corporation Awarded Navy OTA for Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet Program

November 27th, 2024

CARBONDALE, PA, November 26th, 2024 – Gentex Corporation, a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, aircrew, emergency responders and industrial personnel, has been awarded an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) by the U.S. Navy to develop the Navy’s Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet (NGFWH) program. This further signifies Gentex’s commitment to providing cutting-edge protection for military aircrew and marks an important step forward in Naval Aviation safety and innovation.

Through this OTA, the NGFWH will complete qualification and achieve airworthiness and production readiness qualifications for use on Navy fixed wing aircraft including the E-2D, F/A-18, EA-18G, T-45 and T-6. Designed to meet the evolving mission requirements of Naval Aviation, the NGFWH is set to become the Navy’s standard helmet for its fixed-wing, tactical aviators.

The NGFWH will deliver a more advanced and adaptable helmet system and will provide a platform for future upgrades, ensuring the system evolves with the needs of Navy aircrew. Key System Attributes (KSAs) for the NGFWH include improved mass properties such as reduced weight, optimized center of gravity and balanced principal moments of inertia.

“Gentex Corporation is honored to be awarded a Navy OTA for the Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet program. This partnership reflects our continued commitment to delivering cutting-edge protection and performance for those who serve, and we are dedicated to supporting the Navy’s mission with the highest standards of performance and safety,” said Rob Stimis, Fixed Wing Segment Director at Gentex Corporation.

This program will span approximately 18 months, culminating in a helmet system that represents the next generation of fixed-wing pilot safety and mission capability. Operational fielding of the NGFWH is anticipated to begin in late 2025.

Posted in Advertiser, Aviation, Contracts, Helmets, Navy, Press Release | 3 Comments »

First of the First: 11th Air Task Force Conducts First Field Exercise

November 27th, 2024

McGREGOR RANGE, N.M. —

The 11th Air Task Force conducted its first field training exercise at McGregor Range, New Mexico, Nov. 4-19, 2024.

As the Air Force shifts toward a more agile, team-oriented force structure, the exercise united Airmen from Davis-Monthan and Holloman Air Force Base to test and refine new concepts for combat readiness.

“This is the future of the Air Force,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Daniel Jamerson, 11th Combat Air Base Squadron commander. “We’re here to prepare our Airmen for the next fight, whether in new terrain, against new adversaries, or in different operational conditions than what we’ve faced in the past.”

The exercise focused on protection-based core task training, ensuring Airmen from diverse career fields are ready to operate as a cohesive unit in combat scenarios. This approach contrasts with past models where Airmen were individually deployed and often worked with unfamiliar teams upon arrival. The shift toward integrated team training reflects the Air Force’s vision for agile combat employment, a proactive and reactive operational scheme of maneuver to enable U.S. forces to increase survivability while generating combat power.

Airmen learned and demonstrated base defense drills, weapons tactics, visual signals, guardian angel and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear preparedness. Airmen also gained experience using counter-unmanned aerial systems, M4 carbines, M18 pistols and heavy weapons.

The training culminated in a base defense scenario, led by U.S. Army 2-363rd Training Support Battalion Task Force Black Scorpion out of Fort Bliss, Texas, where Airmen implemented everything they learned and demonstrated their ability to defend a contingency location while under simulated attack.

“This training instills mission ready airmen and agile combat employment techniques to ensure that we are prepared for that next fight,” said Jamerson. “It’s great to be proficient in your primary Air Force Specialty Code, but you need to be prepared at any given day to be whatever we need to be for a combat air base squadron. It all comes down to that mission focused piece.”

Security forces Airmen led focused training for fellow 11th ATF members.

This training is setting us up to be the best technical experts in our AFSCs while training our peers who are deploying with us, said Airman 1st Class Caleb Roy, 355th Security Forces Squadron response force member. Roy explained the team was preparing one another for aircraft protection, access control, vehicle searches, weapons tactics, and day-to-day proficiencies so each Airman is interchangeable down range.

The 11th ATF’s efforts are part of a broader initiative to align Air Force force presentation models with those of sister services. The goal is to provide the Department of Defense with clearer insights into Air Force capabilities and readiness levels. The exercise also served as the first opportunity for the Airmen of the 11th Air Task Force, split between Davis-Monthan and Holloman, to train together.

“This is our first opportunity to [come together] to learn our strengths and weaknesses,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jerome Clark, 11th CABS senior enlisted leader. “It’s much better to work with the team all the way through a cycle. All of that ties into us training together, and then deploying together and having a successful mission.”

The exercise prepared Airmen for the way the Air Force will be operating going forward and familiarizes them with the Air Force Force Generation Cycle. It allows a more predictable deployment cycle and the ability to better plan operations without the disruptions of last-minute assignments. This structured approach not only enhances operational readiness but also builds confidence among the team.

“We’re deliberate, motivated, and excited,” said Clark. “This process is setting the foundation for a stronger, more agile Air Force.”

Jamerson echoes Clark’s feelings.

“The future is here,” said Jamerson. “The combat air base squadron is not just a concept, it’s the reality of how we’re going to fight and win the next conflict. We’re building something transformational, and this is just the beginning.”

By Airman 1st Class Jasmyne Bridgers-Matos, 355th Wing

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, SOF, Training | No Comments »

DroneShield Releases 4Q24 Firmware Updates

November 26th, 2024

DroneShield (“DroneShield” or “the Company”) is pleased to announce it has released the latest update to its full range of Radio Frequency (RF) sensors including the RfPatrol, DroneSentry-X and RfOne models.

This update adds new drone models and communication protocols which can be identified by RFAI, including new types of home-made or non-commercial UxS. RF devices operate with greater stability and accuracy resulting in faster, more reliable drone detection.

New features include:

Faster Scanning with AI: Detection scans are now 17% faster, so users are notified of drones sooner and kept up to date in near-real-time. Settings can be configured to further optimise scan time based on mission requirements

New Drone Types: RFAI drone library has been expanded to recognise more signals which are used in custom and aftermarket drones

Growing API: Each device’s inbuilt gRPC API extends to cover greater control of positioning systems. Disruption protocols are faster and more regular, providing dependability when it matters most

Cybersecurity Resilience: Onboard firmware has seen a slew of security improvements in line with expectations from leading defence clients

AI & Software Improvements: Increased accuracy in direction-finding calculations, as well as future-proofing features for upcoming performance improvements in 2025

Angus Bean, DroneShield Chief Technology Officer, commented, “DroneShield always aims to provide our customers with industry-leading technology so they can maintain the highest degree of safety and security in the face of an evolving drone threat.”

For more information on product capabilities, visit www.droneshield.com.

Posted in Press Release, Tac Apps, UAS | No Comments »

TacJobs – Massif Seeks Military Sales Representative

November 26th, 2024

Massif is seeking a Military Sales Representative to drive sales of Company’s apparel products to domestic military customers and grow revenue through developing new domestic military business, all in support of the Company’s vision, strategies, and goals.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintains and grows small contract sales through cultivation of relationships with government contacts in appropriate branches of the U.S. military, as well as federal, state, and local government offices.

o Monitors government initiatives and research and development efforts

o Grows sales through “small contract” procurement vehicles, i.e., GSA, BSC, and TLS

• Attends trade shows, industry events, and other functions to represent the Company.

• Provides sales and other reports to management as requested.

• Mastery of product offering and solutions.

• Provides continued feedback from customers to management and internal teams for use in product design and development.

• Collaborates with Customer Service team to ensure customer satisfaction.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Performs all duties in accordance with Company Quality Management System.

• Frequent domestic travel (50%+)

COMPETENCIES:

• Strong understanding of military/government customers and procurement.

• Strong knowledge of Company products, including features, benefits, and applications.

• Ability to build strong customer relationships.

• Strong creative problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written;including strong presentation skills.

• Team-player orientation.

• Ability to organize and effectively prioritize multiple tasks to meet deadlines and sales objectives.

• Self-initiating, with ability to work independently.

• Strong computer skills (Word, Excel, Outlook, MRP/ERP systems, CRM system, web searching)

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent education or experience.

• 1-3 years of sales experience, preferably within military/government channels.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands described are those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position is primarily a sedentary position, which requires frequent use of a computer monitor and keyboard, and frequent lifting of up to 25 pounds. It requires occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds. It requires the ability to talk and hear. There are no special vision requirements. It rarely requires reaching, climbing, bending, stooping, crouching, kneeling, or crawling.

This position is subject to limited office noise.

This position frequently requires driving a rental vehicle while traveling on Company business.

Please apply through www.massif.com/careers and send a resume and cover letter to jobs@massif.com . All applicants must fill out and submit the EEO and Veteran Status Survey (Click here) and Voluntary Self-Identification of Disability (Click here). Answer the survey questions, click continue at the bottom of the page, and then click submit. The completed survey will be forwarded to us automatically.

Massif is an industry leader in making advanced fabrics and protective clothing for professionals who work in extreme environments, from the U.S. military to wildland firefighters and law enforcement professionals. Our mission is to provide comfort and flame protection for people in the world’s most dangerous jobs. We accomplish this mission with integrity and a commitment to superior customer service.

The Massif team is hardworking and energetic, focused on doing whatever it takes to get the job done. Our employees appreciate the outdoors and pride themselves on understanding the needs of our customers. Massif is dedicated to supporting its team members’ whole-hearted engagement in accomplishing Massif’s mission by recognizing the need for work/life balance. Our team works hard and plays hard. We aspire to be contributing members of our local community and the communities of our customers such as the U.S. military.

Located in the beautiful resort town of Ashland in Southern Oregon, Massif offers a casual, open work environment with plenty of opportunities for personal and professional growth.

EEO/Disabled/Veterans

Posted in TacJobs | No Comments »

AeroVironment to Acquire BlueHalo, Establishing Next-Generation Defense Technology Company

November 26th, 2024

Enables AeroVironment’s Entry into Key Segments and Strengthens Multi-Domain Capabilities

All-Stock Transaction Will Significantly Enhance Growth and Diversification

ARLINGTON, Va. – November 19, 2024 – AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV) (“AV” or the “Company”) and BlueHalo LLC (“BlueHalo”) today announced the execution of a definitive agreement under which AV will acquire BlueHalo in an all-stock transaction with an enterprise value of approximately $4.1 billion, creating a more diversified global leader in all-domain defense technologies. The combined company will bring together complementary capabilities to offer a comprehensive portfolio of high-growth franchises, powered by cutting-edge technology and focused on addressing the most important priorities and needs of our nation and allies around the globe.

BlueHalo, an Arlington Capital Partners portfolio company, was founded as a purpose-built platform providing industry-leading capabilities in several key mission areas: Space Technologies, Counter-Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (cUAS), Directed Energy, Electronic Warfare, Cyber, Artificial Intelligence and other Emerging Technologies including Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles (UUVs). Since its founding in 2019, BlueHalo’s notable accomplishments include being the first to successfully operationally field directed energy (DE) laser weapon systems (LWS) with its LOCUST LWS, being awarded Space Force’s multi-billion dollar program to transform space operations with BADGER, its adaptive phased array product and serving as a leader in Radio Frequency Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (RF C-UAS), delivering its 1000th system last year with its Titan and Titan-SV systems. BlueHalo has focused on cutting-edge research and development allowing for the development of products and services to transform the future of global defense.

BlueHalo estimates that it will achieve more than $900 million in revenues for 2024, in addition to funded backlog of nearly $600 million and a pipeline of multiple billion-dollar opportunities and programs of record. BlueHalo generated approximately $886 million of revenue in 2023, compared to $759 million and $660 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The acquisition of BlueHalo will create a diversified Defense Tech company with a highly complementary and differentiated portfolio of solutions in Uncrewed Systems, short and long range Loitering Munitions, Counter UAS, Space Technologies, Electronic Warfare and Cyber, powered by AI and Autonomy. This combination will drive innovation, expand manufacturing capacity and enable us to better support our customers and their critical missions. AV expects that BlueHalo’s portfolio of 10 flagship solution families and more than 100 patents will seamlessly integrate with AV’s complementary existing expertise in the design, development, manufacturing, training and servicing of Uncrewed Systems, Loitering Munitions and Advanced Technologies.

AV and BlueHalo believe that these synergies will primarily be identified as administrative and operational cost savings and sharing best practices from each company. The companies’ shared culture of agile innovation and mission expertise will enable the combined entity to develop and deliver next-generation technologies that will have significant military value and redefine the next era of Defense Technology. On a pro forma basis, the combined company is expected to deliver more than $1.7 billion in revenue.

“For over 50 years, AV has pioneered innovative solutions on the battlefield, and today we are poised to usher in the next era of defense technology through our combination with BlueHalo,” said Wahid Nawabi, AV chairman, president and chief executive officer.

“BlueHalo not only brings key franchises and complementary capabilities, but also a wealth of technologies, diverse customers and exceptional talent to AV. Together, we will drive agile innovation and deliver comprehensive, next-generation solutions designed to redefine the future of defense. We are thrilled to welcome the talented BlueHalo team as we unite our strengths, expand our global impact and accelerate growth and value creation for AV shareholders.”

Jonathan Moneymaker, chief executive officer of BlueHalo, said, “BlueHalo was founded to address the most pressing challenges confronting the defense and national security community, from unconventional threats to near-peer adversaries. We have pioneered solutions for drone warfare, distributed autonomy, and the need for more robust and assured access to space in an increasingly contested, crowded and competitive domain. Through these efforts, we have earned our reputation as a trusted partner in defense innovation. By uniting with AV, we are building an organization equipped to meet emerging defense priorities and deliver purpose-driven, state-of-the-art solutions with unmatched speed. Together, we remain committed to protecting those who defend us while driving the next generation of transformational advancements in defense technology.”

Strategic and Financial Benefits:

• Creates a diversified industry leader. This transaction brings together AV’s established portfolio of cutting-edge defense solutions with BlueHalo’s emerging and industry-defining technologies. This union will provide customers with a comprehensive suite of solutions across multiple domains—including air, land, sea, space and cyber. Together, AV and BlueHalo will create a leader in integrated defense technologies with a global footprint capable of addressing the full spectrum of modern defense.

• Increases agility and speed, with enhanced infrastructure, manufacturing capabilities and geographic footprint. The combined company will benefit from greater resources, enabling faster innovation and more efficient deployment of critical defense systems.

• Supports AV’s entry into additional key defense segments and builds on the Company’s strong track record of providing essential solutions. With BlueHalo’s portfolio, AV will enter into new segments that will significantly increase the Company’s total addressable market, including Counter-UAS, Directed Energy, Electronic Warfare, Cyber and Space technologies. The acquisition will bring with it BlueHalo’s key programs of record, deep customer relationships and strong backlog and pipeline, positioning the future company as a more robust and sustainable prime defense solution provider. This partnership will enhance AV’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the Department of Defense (DoD) and allied nations with a robust suite of innovative solutions.

• Diversifies mix of customers, products and revenue. The combined company is expected to achieve a more balanced and diversified customer base, product and revenue mix, benefiting from BlueHalo’s established presence in key emerging defense markets. The combined company will benefit from expanded geographical reach, with the ability to provide BlueHalo’s solutions to AV’s larger international customer base. By integrating complementary capabilities, AV will be well-positioned to generate sustained long-term value for shareholders.

• Generates attractive returns. AV expects the transaction to be accretive to revenue, adjusted EBITDA and non-GAAP EPS in the first full fiscal year post-close.

Transaction Details

The transaction, which has been unanimously approved by both companies’ board of directors or managers, is expected to close in the first half of calendar 2025, subject to regulatory and AV shareholder approvals, as well as other customary closing conditions.

Per the terms of the merger agreement, AV will issue approximately 18.5 million shares of AV common stock to BlueHalo.

Following the close of the transaction and based on AV’s shares outstanding as of November 18, 2024, AV’s shareholders will own approximately 60.5% of the combined company and BlueHalo’s equity holders will own approximately 39.5%, subject to closing adjustments. Arlington Capital Partners, an investment firm that is the majority owner of BlueHalo, will retain a significant ownership stake in the combined company.

We expect substantially all of the BlueHalo holders to enter lock-up agreements with respect to their transaction consideration, with 40% releasing 12 months post close and the remaining 60% to be released in equal tranches 18 and 24 months after the close.

Leadership, Governance and Headquarters

Following the completion of the transaction, AV Chairman, President and CEO Wahid Nawabi will be Chairman, President and CEO of the combined company. Jonathan Moneymaker, CEO of BlueHalo, will serve as a strategic advisor to Mr. Nawabi and the combined company Management Team.

Upon closing, the AV Board of Directors will be expanded to comprise 10 members.

Arlington Capital Partners will have the right to appoint two directors to the Board, subject to minimum ownership thresholds.

The combined company will be at headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, at AV’s corporate headquarters.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | No Comments »