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Samsung Solution Day & Partner Expo

March 24th, 2025

Samsung Solution Day & Partner Expo, hosted by Juggernaut Case, is scheduled for Thursday, April 3, 2025 at Juggernaut HQ, 9229 E Verde Grove View, Scottsdale, AZ 85255.

The event cuts through the tradeshow clutter, offering a one-day, high-impact event where defense, federal, and public safety professionals can directly engage with cutting-edge technology. Enjoy equipment displays, capability presentations, and a live, hands-on demo of integrated solutions in an intimate, relaxed setting. Meet with Samsung, Juggernaut, VK Sys, Darley, Silvus Technologies, Invisio, and others.

Event registration is restricted to government employees, and that they must register with their government email.

Posted in Advertiser, Comms | 1 Comment »

AV2.2 Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet (NGFWH) Testing Update

March 24th, 2025

LIFT Airborne Technologies, in collaboration with the Human Systems Program Office (AFLCMC/ROU), has successfully conducted over fifty-three (53) Performance Specification (P-Spec) environmental test events, windblast test events, and ejection sled test events on the AV2.2 NGFWH under the current Other Transaction Authority (OTA) contract.

The AV2.2 NGFWH Slick Variant and the AV2.2 NGFWH equipped with the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) Modification Adapter Kit have undergone windblast testing at two seat angles: 17 degrees (representing aircraft such as the F-15, A-10, and F-22) and 32 degrees (representing the F-16). Testing at various speeds included 325 Knots Equivalent Airspeed (KEAS), 450 KEAS, and 600 KEAS for the AV2.2 NGFWH Slick Variant, while the AV2.2 NGFWH with JHMCS Modification Adapter Kit was tested at 450 KEAS.

The successful performance enabled progression to ejection sled testing.

Subsequently, The AV2.2 NGFWH Slick Variant has successfully completed ejection sled testing at 450 KEAS and 600 KEAS, conducted at both 17-degree and 32-degree seat angles. Additionally, the AV2.2 NGFWH equipped with the JHMCS Modification Adapter Kit underwent testing at 450 KEAS at both seat angles. The results from these tests were satisfactory, with both configurations meeting the P-Spec requirements.

The AV2.2 NGFWH is currently operational in various aircraft worldwide, including the latest addition to the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) fleet, the OA-1K Sky Warden. Aircrew operating the OA-1K Sky Warden are enthusiastic about the advanced capabilities of the AV2.2 NGFWH helmet system.

Having met all the requirements outlined in the P-Spec, the AV2.2 NGFWH Slick Variant now enables LIFT Airborne Technologies and the Human Systems Program Office to collaborate on advancing the program to the Milestone C Acquisition Phase and working towards a production contract.

For Department of Defense users seeking testing data regarding the AV2.2 NGFWH, please contact Samantha McKee, NGFWH Contracting Officer at AFLCMC/ROU, at samantha.mckee.1@us.af.mil.

For international users seeking testing data, please contact your respective government officials to request the testing data from the United States Air Force.

For any further inquiries regarding the AV2.2 NGFWH, please reach out to Chris Kitts, Director of Military Programs at LIFT Airborne Technologies, at chris.k@liftairborne.com or Todd Lentz, Chief Revenue Officer at LIFT Airborne Technologies, at todd.l@liftairborne.com.

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Guest Post, Helmets | Comments Off on AV2.2 Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet (NGFWH) Testing Update

MATBOCK Monday: Raider Waterproof Line

March 24th, 2025

The entire line – Front, Rear, Rifle Bag, and Side waterproof products – has just been updated. Initially, the Raider line was specifically developed for a customer who needed a waterproof line to conduct over-the-beach (OTB) operations; however, as its popularity continues to grow outside of these specialty units, the use cases have grown, too.

MATBOCK Front Raider Pouch Includes:

– Waterproof pouch rated to 92″ for 4 hours

– Triple Mag Insert

– Admin Zipper Insert

– Attachment Panels (supports MOLLE, Velcro loop, and Kangaroo flap carriers)

– Oral inflation valve

MATBOCK Rear Raider Pouch Includes:

– Waterproof pouch

– Laser-cut MOLLE panel on the inside and outside of the pouch

– MOLLE attachment tabs

– Oral inflation valve

MATBOCK Raider Rifle Bag Includes:

– Waterproof rifle bag rated to 92′ for 4 hours

– Carrying Handle

– 8 attachment points (4 on the front, 4 on the back)

– Oral Inflation Valve

MATBOCK Raider Side Pouch Includes:

– Waterproof general-purpose pouch rated to 167′ for 6 hours

– Belt loops

– MOLLE attachment tabs

– Oral Inflation Valve

Check out the MATBOCK Raider line here: https://www.matbock.com/collections/maritime/raider, and if you have any questions or need a quote, email sales@matbock.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Load Carrying, Maritime | Comments Off on MATBOCK Monday: Raider Waterproof Line

US, JGSDF Strengthen Interoperability During Airborne 25

March 24th, 2025

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) —

U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron supported the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force 1st Airborne Brigade by delivering 215 Japanese paratroopers over the East Fuji Maneuver Area in Gotemba City, Japan, March 4, as part of exercise Airborne 25.

Airborne is an annual large-scale exercise that integrates air and ground forces from the U.S. and Japan. This year’s iteration featured six U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules, with 36th AS aircrews working to insert JGSDF Soldiers into a simulated contested area. The scenario tested the ability of U.S.-Japan forces to secure territory in the event of a contingency and underscored the collaborative effort between both countries to strengthen combat readiness.

A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force paratrooper assigned to the 1st Airborne Brigade carries his equipment after landing at JGSDF East Fuji Maneuver Area, Japan, March 4, 2025, during Airborne 25. Airborne 25 is the largest annual static-line personnel jump exercise between the U.S. Air Force and JGSDF. The exercise integrated six C-130J Super Hercules from the 36th Airlift Squadron carrying 215 JGSDF soldiers for an airdrop training. (U.S. Air Force photo by Yasuo Osakabe)

U.S. Air Force Capt. Zachary Riley, 36th AS C-130J pilot and Airborne 25 mission commander, emphasized the importance of this event.

“Airborne is a great opportunity for us and the JGSDF to work together at the most fundamental, tactical level,” Riley said. “We have a lot of cooperation between higher level leadership, but exercises like Airborne allow us to actually test our capabilities as an Air Force supporting a ground unit. It’s important for us to stay sharp on all our procedures and to work more efficiently with the JGSDF every single time.”

Prior to the personnel drop, members of the 374th Airlift Wing and 1st Airborne Brigade met to discuss the details of Airborne 25. Leaders from both forces reviewed the training scenario developed by U.S.-Japan operations personnel and addressed how they would mitigate various threats and work together to accomplish mission objectives.

For Riley and members of the 36th AS, this provided valuable insight into joint operations.

“Working with the JGSDF helps us better understand each other’s language and priorities,” Riley said. “It’s about recognizing what matters to an army unit versus an Air Force unit and highlighting those differences. Overcoming those challenges and working together to find efficient solutions is invaluable.”

The execution of Airborne 25 reinforced the partnership between the 36th AS and 1 AB as they demonstrated their ability to operate in a joint environment. As both forces continue to refine interoperability, exercises like Airborne play a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Story b Senior Airman Natalie Doan, 374th Airlift Wing

Additional photos by Yasuo Osakabe

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post, Parachuting | 1 Comment »

Terrain 365 Introduces the Narwhal-AT Folding Knife

March 23rd, 2025

A Rustproof, Streamlined Folder with a Low-Profile Flipper Action

New for March 2025, Terrain 365™ launches their newest folder model, the Narwhal-AT. A sleek and streamlined, rustproof folder for use on land or in the water. Featuring a fast, low-profile flipper tab, our Terravantium™ super alloy blade, all titanium hardware, Hyperglowpivot rings, and signature fullers in the handle and blade. A precision-made study in purpose-driven, spartan yet capable design. Like its namesake, “narwhal”, this folder is unique in its adaptation to the world around it. A highly successful hunter with a simple, sleek and streamlined yet blunt body. Available with a solid titanium framelock side and titanium presentation side with and without various handle scale material options.

The Narwhal-AT is available with Terravantium™ super alloy, all titanium hardware, titanium framelock and G10, micarta, carbon fiber or fat carbon scales.

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

“I wanted to design a full-sized folder that was inspired by the simplicity and ergonomic balance of a capsule shape. In keeping with the streamlined design direction, I used a low-profile flipper tab that could easily flip open the blade with your thumb or index finger. Something about the final appearance reminded me of the predatory marine mammal the narwhal so the name stuck. ”

The Narwhal-AT is available starting at $365.00 on their website.

Posted in Guest Post, Knives | Comments Off on Terrain 365 Introduces the Narwhal-AT Folding Knife

Spectra Group Train Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to Use Troposcatter MTTS

March 23rd, 2025

Spectra Group (UK) Ltd, a specialist provider of secure voice, data and satellite communications systems, has been supporting the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to enhance their strategic communications expertise, particularly by maximising the capabilities and hence benefits of using Comtech’s Troposcatter Modular Transportable Transmission System (MTTS).

Spectra Group acquired the global distribution rights for Comtech’s Troposcatter Family of Systems (less USA, Canada and Mexico which is retained by Comtech) in 2024 and late last year Spectra Group also announced opening their Australia office to better support the Asia region.

Tropospheric scatter is a communications capability that uses the Troposphere (up to about 13km altitude) to provide high bandwidth communications. It is satellite independent and works in a GPS/GNSS denied environment, so is suitable for use in a Peer-on-Peer conflict/Multi Domain Integration. Troposcatter inherently has very low latency and can provide huge bandwidth, potentially enabling analysis and manipulation of large data, which combined with its low operating cost makes it suitable for strategic down to tactical headquarters. Troposcatter MTTS is the most flexible, rapidly deployable, modular transit case troposcatter system available for when the operational situation demands high power, typically 500W. Key benefits for the AFP include rapid deployability, exceptional mobility and robust performance in challenging environments, enabling critical voice, data, and video communications in situations where traditional infrastructure is unavailable.

Throughout March, Spectra Group has been providing a comprehensive familiarisation and training package to the AFP to ensure that they are not only able to unlock the full capability of their MTTS Troposcatter systems but also embed indigenous knowledge and expertise to maintain the capability for the future.

Shaun Barry, Business Development Manager at Spectra Group said: “We have been working hard over the last couple of years to develop opportunities in the Asia region and this training programme is a good example where we are directly supporting our customers to not only get the best from their equipment now but also sustain that capability into the future. The region is extremely geographically complex which presents multiple strategic communication challenges for security forces and Spectra Group has have a number of superb systems including Troposcatter, SlingShot and soon GENSS that provide the perfect solution to these challenges.”

www.spectra-group.co.uk

Posted in Comms, International, Press Release, Training | 1 Comment »

188th Infantry Brigade Innovation Lab Invests in Drone Training for Future Combat

March 23rd, 2025

FORT STEWART, Ga. – The 188th Infantry Brigade is breaking new ground in Army training and readiness with the launch of its Innovation Lab, a future forward initiative dedicated to the development, construction, and integration of drones in modern warfare.

As part of First Army’s mission to prepare Reserve and National Guard units (Compo 2 and Compo 3) for mobilization, the 188th Infantry Brigade is embracing emerging technologies to enhance warfighter capabilities. The Innovation Lab provides Soldiers with hands-on experience in drone assembly, programming, and field training, preparing them for efficiency on the battlefields of the future.

Maj. Trevor Barrett, the Brigade Innovations Officer, emphasized the lab’s value in fostering a culture of adaptability.

“This is the future and the sooner we can expose Soldiers to this technology the better and more proficient we will be,” Barrett said. “This makes our Army stronger, more adaptive, and more lethal.”

The Innovation Lab is a collaborative space where Soldiers from various military occupational specialties (MOS) work together to construct and modify drones tailored to mission-specific needs. Using commercially available components and 3D printing, the lab enables Soldiers to design drones for reconnaissance.

In addition to drone construction, the Innovation Lab integrates small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) into field exercises and combat simulations. Soldiers undergo training on drone piloting and electronic warfare countermeasures to prepare them to operate effectively in both offensive and defensive scenarios.

“I think sUAS operation will be a required skill for many MOS and you will see multiple variants in the US inventory,” Barrett said.

The Innovation Lab serves as a multifaceted learning tool for drone technology, with Soldiers being trained on both the assembly and field use of the sUAS. The drones that have been built will be introduced at upcoming training events and competitions for the brigade.

“We plan on using these systems this summer at eXportable Combat Training Capability (XCTCs) and the second annual Pershing Cup Best OC/T Competition,” Barrett said.

This initiative aligns with the Army’s broader modernization efforts, leveraging grassroots ingenuity to develop practical solutions for warfighters at all levels.

“Like most Soldiers, I am a student of warfare and have seen how drones have changed the modern battlefield,” Barrett said. “The overall objective is to become masters of these systems, learn to employ them effectively, and modify them to defeat our enemies.”

As the 188th Infantry Brigade continues to refine its drone training program, the Innovation Lab is a tangible testament to the Army’s commitment to adaptability and technological advancement. With each flight and every experiment, Ready Brigade Soldiers are not just learning to use drones—they are shaping the warfighting future.

Story by SSG Marlana Cureton, 188th Infantry Brigade

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Training, UAS | Comments Off on 188th Infantry Brigade Innovation Lab Invests in Drone Training for Future Combat

WWII Veterans Return to Pacific Battlefields for 80th Anniversary and Historic U.S.-Japan “Reunion of Honor” Ceremony

March 23rd, 2025

NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 21, 2025 — In commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, the Eagle Society is honored to support the Iwo Jima Association of America in escorting seven World War II veterans back to the Pacific battlefields. The veterans will travel to Iwo To (formerly Iwo Jima), where they will participate in the Reunion of Honor Ceremony, and continue to Okinawa, Japan, to commemorate with Walter LaSota, a Battle of Okinawa veteran.

WWII Veterans and U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to attend Iwo Jima 80th anniversary Reunion of Honor ceremony

Next week’s ceremony brings together former enemies who are now the strongest of allies. More than 18,500 Japanese and 6,800 American lives were lost in the Battle of Iwo Jima, with the ceremony a solemn reminder of the enormous sacrifices. Okinawa, the final and bloodiest battle of the war, saw more than 12,000 American and 100,000 Japanese and Okinawan lives lost. For many veterans, returning to these sites offers a powerful opportunity for reflection, healing, and closure.

World War II veterans making this journey include CSM Delmar D. Beard (US Army) from Glendale, AZ; Joe Caminiti (USMC) from Bristol, CT; Capt. Ed Cavallini (USMC) from Seaside, CA; Charles Cram (US Navy) from San Diego, CA; Nils Mockler (USMC) from Putnam Valley, NY; Frank Wright (USMC) from Lodi, CA; Lt. j.g. Patrick Zilliacus (USNR) from Playa Del Rey, CA; and Walter LaSota (USMC – Okinawa Veteran) from Reading, PA.

The trip begins by visiting the Battle of Guam site where U.S. forces liberated the island in 1944. Travel continues to Iwo To for the 80th anniversary commemoration and Reunion of Honor Ceremony, attended by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Their journey concludes in Okinawa, visiting the USMC base.

Eagle Society’s founder, Michael Davidson, is known for honoring and supporting veterans. He organizes trips to educate today’s leaders on American history, heroes, and heritage. Davidson has taken veterans to Normandy for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, but this is the first journey of this scale in the Pacific. Given the advanced age of many veterans, he explains the trip’s importance:

“We’re losing our WWII veterans daily, and with them, I fear we’re also losing the hard-earned lessons they fought valiantly to teach us. Our Pacific War veterans, in particular, remind us that duty, honor, and country are not just words – they’re a call to action, especially amid rising geopolitical conflict and clashing worldviews. This journey offers a profound opportunity to reflect, honor their sacrifices, and recommit to being better citizens. The Eagle Society is dedicated to preserving these heroes’ stories, so future generations not only remember but apply their lessons to today’s challenges.”

About Eagle Society:

Eagle Society is a 501(c)(3) impact accelerator that leverages networks and transformative leadership experiences inspired by America’s founding vision to foster a renewed commitment to civic life.

Posted in History, Press Release, Veterans | Comments Off on WWII Veterans Return to Pacific Battlefields for 80th Anniversary and Historic U.S.-Japan “Reunion of Honor” Ceremony