You Never Know Where They’ll Show Up
May 18th, 2017New Lockheed Martin Exoskeleton Helps Soldiers Carry Heavy Gear
May 17th, 2017
TAMPA, Fla., May 16, 2017 – Their demanding missions often require soldiers to carry heavy equipment packs long distances over rough terrain, or up and down stairs and underground infrastructure in mega-cities. Exhaustion and injury are frequently a consequence of these challenging operational scenarios. A new exoskeleton from Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) offers a solution.
Using licensed DermoskeletonTM bionic augmentation technology, the FORTIS Knee Stress Release Device (K-SRD)TM is a computer-controlled exoskeleton that counteracts overstress on the lower back and legs and increases mobility and load-carrying capability. It boosts leg capacity for physically demanding tasks that require repetitive or continuous kneeling or squatting, or lifting, dragging, carrying or climbing with heavy loads.
“FORTIS K-SRD features military-specification batteries that are approved for infantry use, improved control box ergonomics and faster actuators that generate more torque,” said Keith Maxwell, FORTIS program manager at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “These system upgrades resulted from soldier feedback on the initial design.”
Sensors on the exoskeleton report the soldier’s speed, direction and angle of movement to an on-board computer that drives electro-mechanical actuators at the knees. The exoskeleton delivers the right torque at the right time to assist knee flex and extension. FORTIS K-SRD ultimately reduces the energy needed to cross terrain, squat or kneel. These benefits are most noticeable when ascending or descending stairs or navigating inclined surfaces.
Versions of the exoskeleton are also available for industrial workers and first responders who have to perform strenuous tasks in difficult environments.
“For any mission that combines heavy man-portable gear and climbing, FORTIS K-SRD can enhance strength and endurance,” Maxwell added.
For additional information on Lockheed Martin’s exoskeleton technology, visit our website.
SOF Select – Velocity Systems Ultra Low Visibility Plates
May 17th, 2017
These are Velocity Systems’ ULW plates. Made from titanium, these stand-alone, multistrike plates will defeat 7.62 x 39. The back plate is to the left and the front to the right. Medium plates are 4.5 lbs at .285″. They have NSNs, available from Velocity Systems.
SOFIC – FN America SCAR Mk 20 in .260 Remington
May 17th, 2017
As I walked through the FN America Booth at SOFIC I ran across this gem. That’s right, .260 Remington.
FN America continues to develop new capabilities, just in case a requirement comes up.
SOFIC – SIG Electro-Optics ROMEO4T
May 17th, 2017
The SIG ROMEO4T is a 1×20 red dot sight with a CR2032 backup and Solar Panel primary power source along the top. Using solar power and battery backup, you can expect in excess of 100,000 hours.
It is made from 7075 Aluminum and comes with a hexnut fastener on the 1/3 co-witness spacer.
Additionally, it is available with one of two sets of four, user selectable reticles (Ballistic Circle-dot and CirclePlex). The sight also comes standard with solid and see through lens covers.
Tested to Mil-Spec 810G, submersible to 20 meters, the is also an “H” model which doesn’t offer the solar power source.
SOF Select – Scubapro Elastic Mask Strap
May 17th, 2017
Scubapro showed me this simple, yet cool elastic mask strap. While neoprene straps will break at the worst possible time, the elastic mask strap will just loose elasticity, meaning you have to tighten it up. Beats the heck out of a broken mask strap in the middle of a swim.
75th Ranger Regt To Stand Up 5th Battalion
May 17th, 2017On Monday, 22 May, 2017, at Fort Benning, Georgia, the 75th Ranger Regiment will stand up a fifth battalion. There haven’t been five active Ranger Battalions since World War II.
However, this battalion is a little different. It’s the Military Intelligence Bn (Provisional). The battalion’s two companies will offer expanded capability beyond the current MI Co in the Regiment’s Special Troops Bn. It’s mission is to provide multi-discipline, full-spectrum, worldwide, expeditionary, and reach back intelligence capabilities for the 75th Ranger Regiment enterprise. Furthermore, it institutionalizes and professionalizes the find, fix, finish, exploit and analyze (F3EA) targeting methodology required to counter enemy combatant forces’ tactics, techniques, and methods.
The RMIB(P) will consist of a Ranger Military Intelligence Company providing all-source analysis, GEOINT, IMINT, HUMINT, and UAS functions along with a Combat Electromagnetic Activities Capabilities (CEMA) Company which will offer EW, SIGINT, Technical Surveillance and Cyber support. Additionally, there is a Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment.
Congratulations Rangers!
Be Sure To See The Rest Of SOFIC
May 17th, 2017Right across the footbridge from the Tampa Convention Center on the second floor of the Embassy Suites, are several additional companies including BE Meyers & Co (where you can also see MAWL-Man and a Hodge Unicorn gun), Magpul (with drinks and snacks!), Blue Force Gear, Cubic and Booz Allen Hamilton.
