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Rheinmetall Gladius Light – Special Networking for Special Operations Forces

March 2nd, 2025

Soldier systems connect individual warriors on the battlefield with other actors, sensors, effectors and platforms, bringing them into the network-enabled operational loop. Rheinmetall has extensive experience in this area. Just in February 2025 the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) has signed a framework contract with Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH for the follow-on procurement of soldiersystems ‘Infantry Soldier of the Future – Enhanced System’ (IdZES). The framework contract, with a maximum gross volume of €3.1bn, will run until the end of 2030. Overall, the German Armed Forces can thus initiate the proportional regeneration as well as the manufacturing and delivery of up to 368 IdZ-ES platoon systems and various options for the procurement of additional components and services. A platoon is a military sub-unit.

IdZ-ES is based on the soldier system Gladius 2.0. At Enforce Tac 2025, the Group will be presenting another version of its Gladius 2.0 soldier system, specifically designed to meet the needs of special operations forces. During development, the system’s designers kept a sharp focus on the need for lightweight, flexible systems that enable maximum mobility. The Gladius Light configuration has therefore been stripped down to its essentials. At the same time, however, care was taken to maximize flexibility, making it possible to include accessories needed for special operations. Moreover, the new configuration is specially designed to enable subsequent upgrades and extensions. The Gladius Light configuration is based on a lightweight tactical harness with scalable ballistic protection.

It includes:
-a radio for voice and data communication as well as GPS tracking for ‘blue force’ information;
-an advanced headset with various push-to-talk buttons (connected by cable or Bluetooth) for voice communication;
-an end user device (e.g. a tablet) for depicting tactical maps, assuring an uninterrupted exchange of information and improved situational awareness.

Posted in Armor, Comms, Digitization, International, Press Release, SOF | Comments Off on Rheinmetall Gladius Light – Special Networking for Special Operations Forces

Savage Arms Continues Support of Pass It On Outdoor Mentors

March 2nd, 2025

WESTFIELD, Massachusetts – February 26, 2025 – Savage Arms® announces its continued support of Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors in 2025. Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors has been working to expand opportunities for young hunters to experience safe, mentored hunts. The organization’s efforts help preserve and grow America’s outdoor heritage.

Through its partnership, Savage is providing vital support and resources to help more youth experience hunting firsthand. Savage provides firearms, equipment, personnel and dollars to help ensure safe and successful experiences afield for young hunters.

“Getting kids in the outdoors is essential to the future of our pastime, and our conservation efforts,” said Beth Shimanski, Director of Marketing at Savage Arms and Board Member of Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors. “As a company, Savage is committed to preserving the hunting heritage by fostering new opportunities for the next generation. Personally, it has been rewarding and inspiring to be directly involved. We’re excited for more hunts and hunting experiences done the right way for young hunters.”

In addition to putting more kids in the field, Savage’s support will also allow Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors to recruit and train more mentors. Bridging the gap between young outdoor enthusiasts and the experience that will shape the future of hunting and conservation is another challenge Savage’s support allows Pass it On – Outdoor Mentors to address.

To learn more about Savage, the organizations it supports and the latest news, visit savagearms.com.

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Forging Lifelines: 5th SFAB’s Medical Mission in the Indo-Pacific

March 2nd, 2025

The 5th Security Force Assistance Brigade (5th SFAB) plays a pivotal role in enhancing medical capabilities across the Indo-Pacific, fostering stronger partnerships and improving the readiness of allied and partner nations. Through collaborative training, operational support, and knowledge sharing, 5th SFAB’s medical teams help partner forces advance their trauma care, casualty evacuation, and medical logistics, ensuring greater resilience during both peacetime and large-scale combat operations (LSCO).

Building Medical Readiness Through Collaboration

Since 2023, the 5th SFAB has conducted over 70 medical assessments and numerous training events with nine Indo-Pacific partners. These engagements focus on improving tactical combat casualty care (TCCC), prolonged field care (PFC), whole blood programs, and medical evacuation systems. By introducing advanced trauma care techniques and refining medical processes, 5th SFAB advisors help partner forces reduce casualty fatality rates, increase return-to-duty rates, and enhance overall battlefield survivability.

Advancing Tactical Medical Training

One of the cornerstone initiatives is training partner forces in TCCC and PFC. These programs teach critical skills for stabilizing casualties and providing lifesaving care in austere environments, ensuring that medical personnel can sustain injured soldiers until evacuation. Additionally, the implementation of whole blood programs improves trauma survival rates, aligning partner force capabilities with proven U.S. military practices.

Enhancing Medical Evacuation and Logistics

Effective casualty evacuation is essential during crises. 5th SFAB advisors work closely with partner forces to optimize evacuation routes, establish Patient Evacuation Coordination Cells (PECCs), and ensure seamless coordination between military and civilian healthcare facilities. By embedding medical advisors within partner force headquarters, the brigade enhances real-time reporting and facilitates bilateral evacuation requests, strengthening interoperability and reducing response times.

Supporting Medical Logistics and Supply Chains

Sustaining medical operations during high-casualty scenarios requires robust supply chains. 5th SFAB advisors collaborate with partner force logistics teams to assess supply levels, forecast consumption rates, and address Class VIII medical supply needs. By establishing pre-positioned stockpiles and implementing walking blood banks, partner forces can maintain critical care capabilities even in contested environments. The brigade also advocates for agreements such as Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreements (ACSAs) to ensure reliable resupply during operations.

Building Sustainable Medical Capabilities

The 5th SFAB’s approach emphasizes long-term capacity building through train-the-trainer programs and Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs). By empowering partner nations to develop and sustain their own medical training and operational systems, the brigade fosters enduring self-reliance and strengthens regional stability. Additionally, the use of tools like the Medical Advisor Specific Tool (MEDASAT) ensures consistent progress tracking and continuous improvement.

Strengthening Regional Resilience

Through its advisory efforts, the 5th SFAB is enhancing the medical readiness and interoperability of Indo-Pacific partner forces, ensuring they can respond effectively to both peacetime emergencies and combat operations. By sharing expertise, improving casualty care, and optimizing logistics, the brigade is helping to save lives and strengthen alliances across the region, reinforcing collective security and promoting long-term stability.

Conclusion

The 5th SFAB’s medical advising mission in the Indo-Pacific demonstrates the power of collaboration in strengthening regional security and resilience. By improving trauma care, enhancing evacuation systems, and supporting sustainable medical logistics, the brigade plays a crucial role in ensuring that partner forces are prepared to save lives and sustain operations during both crises and conflicts. These partnerships not only enhance the capabilities of individual nations but also contribute to the collective readiness of the Indo-Pacific region, fostering a network of allies capable of responding swiftly and effectively to any challenge.

By LTC Matthew Holtkamp

Posted in Army, Forces Focus, Guest Post | Comments Off on Forging Lifelines: 5th SFAB’s Medical Mission in the Indo-Pacific

Remington Ammunition Expands Product Line Offerings for 2025

March 1st, 2025

LONOKE, Ark. – February 27, 2025 – Remington Ammunition is expanding multiple product lines to offer new calibers for 2025. These line extensions include popular product families such as Core-Lokt, Core-Lokt Tipped and Core-Lokt Handgun. Big Green is also introducing Performance WheelGun, a new optimized 22 Long Rifle ammunition designed for the old favorite revolver.

“In order to meet the evolving needs of shooters and hunters, Remington is expanding its caliber offerings and optimizing an old standby,” said Jesse Whiteside, Remington’s Vice President of New Product Research and Development. “We are committed to innovation and are thrilled to offer our customers even more choices in their ammunition selection.”

The extensions of these product lines demonstrate Remington’s continued commitment to expanding and evolving its product line to enhance the experience of shooters across the globe.

Core-Lokt

The Deadliest Mushroom in the Woods™, now available in .400 Legend and .300 Ham’r. Since 1939, more hunters have relied on Remington Core-Lokt than any other big game ammunition. The next iteration of the original controlled expansion bullet, these new 210 and 125-grain bullets are ideal for taking down big game from any distance.

Core-Lokt Tipped

Now available in a .300 Remington Ultra Magnum load, Core-Lokt Tipped offers proven on-game performance with improved accuracy and long-range potential. This 180 grain bullet features a polymer tip, Core-Lokt jacket and great accuracy. This combination of Core-Lokt Tipped technology and .300 Remington Ultra Magnum performance provides big game hunters with truer flight, flatter trajectory and devastating terminal energy when stalking their prey.

Core-Lokt Handgun

The Deadliest Mushroom is now handgun-ready in the classic .45 Colt caliber. Core-Lokt Handgun was designed to allow every pistol and revolver hunter the ability to shoot the ammo that has dropped more deer than any other since 1939. Fine-tuned for handguns, these classic Core-Lokt projectiles feature a Premier® nickel case for the ultimate handgun hunting performance with true Deadly Mushroom expansion on big game. Featuring a large case capacity, .45 Colt’s high muzzle velocity and on target performance has made it a go-to load for handgun hunters throughout history.

Performance WheelGun

Engineered to take your Revolver and Lever Rifle skills to the next level, Performance WheelGun is now available in for 22LR. Performance WheelGun is designed with high-quality components and Remington Kleanbore priming that will not rust or corrode the barrel. Now available in widely popular 22LR for traditional revolver and lever rifle bullet styles, Remington Performance WheelGun continues to earn its reputation for trusted accuracy and performance.

Find Remington ammunition at dealers nationwide and online. For more information on Remington ammunition and accessories, visit www.remington.com.

Posted in Ammo, Press Release | Comments Off on Remington Ammunition Expands Product Line Offerings for 2025

Big Guns Coffee: Fueling Service Members with Innovation and Purpose

March 1st, 2025

For service members, coffee isn’t just a beverage—it’s a lifeline. Whether fueling pre-dawn PT, long deployments, or late-night missions, the right brew keeps warriors sharp and ready for whatever comes next. Big Guns Coffee is a veteran-owned company that doesn’t just talk about strength—it brews it.

A Military Legacy, A Coffee Revolution

Big Guns Coffee isn’t your average coffee brand. Founded by Marine Corps Veteran, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker T. Shane Johnson and his 9-year-old daughter Charli, this company embodies resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

T. Shane, who has overcome homelessness and life-threatening adversity, built Big Guns Coffee with the same unwavering determination that carried him through the toughest challenges of his military career. Charli, a budding entrepreneur with big ideas, envisioned a company that would not only produce exceptional coffee but push the boundaries of how and where it’s grown. Together, they launched the first-ever indoor hydroponic coffee farm in North Carolina—a bold step toward sustainable, American-grown coffee.

A Perfect Fit for Those Who Serve

As Big Guns Coffee expands, it aligns with the mission of The Army & Air Force Exchange Service, which provides goods and services at U.S. Army, Air Force, and Space Force installations worldwide. With its presence in department stores, convenience stores, restaurants, and more across 30+ countries and four U.S. territories, the Exchange has long been a trusted provider for service members. Big Guns Coffee is ready to be part of that legacy, bringing fresh, bold, and American-roasted coffee directly to the men and women who defend our nation.

Hydroponic Coffee: Innovation Meets Sustainability

For decades, coffee has been grown in tropical regions, thousands of miles from where it’s consumed. Big Guns Coffee is changing that narrative by pioneering hydroponic coffee farming, a soil-free method that allows coffee plants to thrive in nutrient-rich water. This innovative approach delivers superior quality by eliminating soil inconsistencies and exposure to harmful pesticides, resulting in a cleaner, richer flavor. It also champions sustainability, using significantly less water than traditional farming while reducing environmental impact and preventing fertilizer runoff.

Most importantly, it brings American-grown coffee to the forefront. Traditionally, coffee production in the U.S. has been limited to Hawaii, but Big Guns Coffee’s hydroponic farm in North Carolina introduces a fresh, homegrown option that is reshaping the industry.

Expanding Access: Bringing Big Guns Coffee to Military Retailers

Big Guns Coffee is on a mission to bring high-quality, fresh-roasted coffee directly to military communities. By partnering with the Army & Air Force Exchange Service, the company aims to make its blends more accessible to service members at home and abroad. Whether grabbing a cup before heading to the flight line or stocking up for field exercises, troops deserve the best—and Big Guns Coffee is ready to deliver.

A Veteran-Owned Business That Understands the Mission

Military-serving retailers like the Exchange prioritize brands that understand the unique needs of service members. As a veteran-owned company, Big Guns Coffee is built on the same principles that drive military excellence—discipline, resilience, and mission focus.

“Our goal is simple: to provide high-quality coffee to those who push their limits every day,” says T. Shane Johnson. “As a Marine, I know firsthand the importance of a strong cup of coffee. Now, we’re taking that commitment even further by bringing American-grown coffee to military communities worldwide.”

A Bold Future for Big Guns Coffee

With 38 specialty blends sourced from around the globe, Big Guns Coffee already offers an impressive selection. But the future of coffee is growing in North Carolina, where the first hydroponically grown coffee beans are being cultivated for military personnel and coffee lovers alike. The company is also exploring new ways to expand access, including their Sprouts Farmer’s Market launch in May, ensuring that service members, veterans, and their families have a go-to source for fresh, mission-ready coffee.

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Robots on the Frontline: Clearing Hazards with MTGR

March 1st, 2025

Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va. —

As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, rapid capability fielding is proving critical to maintaining a decisive operational edge on the modern battlefield. In preparation for the future fight, Marine Corps Systems Command’s Program Manager Combat Support Systems (PM CSS) has achieved a significant milestone by fielding the Micro Tactical Ground Robot (MTGR)—a lightweight, agile, and modular robotic platform engineered for rapid standoff explosive hazard detection and neutralization.

Originally developed in partnership with industry for the U.S. Air Force’s EOD community, this capability has been adapted to meet the specific needs of the Fleet Marine Force (FMF) and stands as a prime example of the Corps’ Force Design modernization efforts– addressing evolving adversarial threats while aligning with the Pentagon’s strategic shift to the Indo-Pacific.

According to Capt. Timothy Guinan, project officer for the Explosive Hazard Defeat team, “The MTGR is a lightweight, backpackable robotic platform that embodies agility and modularity. Designed for dismounted combat engineers, it allows Marines to remotely assess and neutralize explosive hazards from a safe distance. This standoff capability is globally applicable, particularly in the congested and complex operational environments typical of the Indo-Pacific theater, where small, dispersed units must operate under the threat of improvised explosive devices and other explosive hazards.”

While survivability and lethality remain paramount, acquisition speed has emerged as an equally critical force multiplier. Fielded in less than a year from the program’s procurement decision, the rapid acquisition of MTGR reflects a paradigm shift in the Marine Corps’ approach to capability development.

Drawing on existing joint force programs and expertise, PM CSS’ Explosive Hazard Defeat team accelerated capability development while tailoring the system to meet the unique needs of the warfighter. Modernized technology paired with a user-friendly interface means that even Marines with minimal training can quickly become proficient operators.

The shift to the Indo-Pacific—with its geographically dispersed islands and maritime chokepoints—demands a force that is agile, expeditionary, and capable of operating in diverse and contested environments. The MTGR’s modular design allows it to be quickly reconfigured for various mission requirements, from explosive hazard detection to reconnaissance and surveillance. Rapidly fielding such a system underscores the Marine Corps’ commitment to modernization and ensures that Marines have the cutting-edge tools necessary to secure operational advantages.

Initial fielding of the MTGR capability began the last week of January 2025 with III MEF in Hawaii, where Marines concurrently completed new equipment training and integrating the system into their operations. This is the first step in a deliberate rollout that will extend to I MEF at Camp Pendleton, II MEF at Camp Lejeune, and Reserve Marines in the coming months. With a fielding objective of 154 systems, the Corps is prioritizing broad distribution to maximize operational impact.

Brian Johnson, logistics management specialist with the Explosive Hazard Defeat Team, emphasized the importance of fleet feedback in shaping effective solutions for Marines. He notes, “I’m most excited to get this system into Marines’ hands, train them, and see their reaction to a new capability that I truly believe in,” Johnson said. “Having worked with other robots, I can say this one stands out—it’s user-friendly, effective and well-suited for combat engineers. The effort behind selecting and refining this system paid off, and I think Marines will pick it up quickly and put it to good use.”

By Johannes Schmidt, MCSC Office of Public Affairs and Communication | Marine Corps Systems Command

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Sons of Liberty Gun Works Appoints Nate Horvath as Chief Executive Officer

February 28th, 2025

San Antonio, Texas – February 27, 2025 – Sons of Liberty Gun Works (“SOLGW™”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Nate Horvath as Chief Executive Officer, effective February 27, 2025. Horvath brings extensive executive leadership experience in the firearms industry with a proven track record of driving growth and operational excellence.

Horvath joins SOLGW following his successful tenure as CEO of Staccato where from 2018 to 2024 he led the company through a turnaround and significant growth. His “always forward” leadership philosophy aligns perfectly with SOLGW’s unwavering commitment to dependability, products engineered for precision performance and duty-grade reliability, and standing firmly behind every product that bears the SOLGW name.

SOLGW co-founder Mike Mihalski shared the following: “Nate was our number one choice to lead Sons of Liberty through our next stage of growth and development as a company. I have known Nate for several years and couldn’t be more excited to partner with him to take the business to the next level.”

A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Horvath brings a unique combination of military experience and business acumen to SOLGW. Horvath’s experience includes building and developing winning teams and cultures, strategic planning, business development, marketing, operations and finance. Prior to Staccato, Horvath spent fourteen years in private equity and debt investing, gaining exposure to a broad range of industries and transactions. He holds an MBA from Stanford University, and he spent his early career as a CPA at global leaders Arthur Andersen and Ernst & Young.

Horvath expressed enthusiasm about joining SOLGW: “I am honored to be joining Mike Mihalski and his team at another great Texas firearms company empowering American citizens who are exercising their 2nd amendment rights. In addition, SOLGW’s support for our law enforcement and military communities is strong and growing with its rifles in active duty use by over 200 agencies in over 36 states. I look forward to contributing to the company’s ongoing growth and to supporting all patriots: civilian, military, and first responders.”

SOLGW co-founder Kyle Grothues added, “We are lucky to have someone as experienced as Nate to take us into the next decade of our growth. Nate’s performance at Staccato has been an inspiration any company would want to emulate, and I look forward to our success under his leadership.”

For more information about Sons of Liberty Gun Works and its products, please visit sonsoflibertygw.com or contact info@solgw.com

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Terrain 365 LUK-AT

February 28th, 2025

A Compact Utility Fixed Blade Featuring VANAX Blade Steel

New for early 2025, Terrain 365™ launches their newest fixed blade model, the LUK-AT. A compact skeleton style fixed blade featuring virtually rustproof, Swedish VANAX blade steel. Lightweight, fast, low-profile and versatile, this little utility knife can be worn around the neck with the ball chain and kydexsheath or mount an aftermarket clip for additional carry options. The LUK-AT is perfectly suited for use on land or in the water, and by backpackers, hunters, fishermen, kayakers, to urban EDC. The unique handle design also allows for various cord wrapping options using type-95 to 550 cord.

The LUK-AT is available with VANAX super steel and includes a slim kydex sheath with ball chain for neck carry.

Creative Director and Co-Founder Patrick Ma of Terrain 365 states,

“I designed the LUK-AT with backpacking and packrafting in mind. It is also quite handy as a little skinner with a variety of game. I wanted something ergonomic, lightweight, and spartan, but also designed to allow the option of cord wrapping the handle for that final individual touch if so desired. This is also the first knife model we are offering using VANAX super steel and has some of the highest marks in performance as a ferrous based metal, as well as being virtually rustproof. I have a LUK-AT mounted to my PFD and another one my pack’s shoulder strap. It’s always good to have a little extra luck on your side [wink].”

The LUK-AT is available from $167.00 on their website.

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