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USSOCOM: Changing Operational Demands Require Acquisition Changes

April 11th, 2025

Worldwide threats put the U.S. at risk and sometimes demand attention from U.S. Special Operations Command. To best meet those challenges, U.S. military acquisition needs to change, said Army Gen. Bryan P. Fenton, Socom commander.

“The character of war is changing faster than we’ve ever seen,” he said today before the House Armed Services Committee’s intelligence and special operations subcommittee.

“The innovation cycle now turns in days and weeks, not months and years. Our adversaries use $10,000 one-way drones that we shoot down with $2 million missiles — that cost-benefit curve is upside down,” he said.

Fenton noted that this is the most complex asymmetric and hybrid threat security environment he has seen during his 38 years of service. Contending with these challenges demands more from special operations forces.

“[It] requires tough choices, forcing trade-offs, as we strive to balance an increase in operations readiness and the need for modernization,” he said.

Fenton explained that over the past two years, for example, demand for SOCOM capabilities by combatant commands has increased by more than 35%, while at the same time, SOCOM has dealt with years of flat budgets.

To meet the demands of increased mission requirements and increasingly complex missions, he said SOCOM needs to improve its acquisition process.

“Our current acquisition procurement system … I would just offer, it’s outdated,” he said. “It’s glacial. I think it works in years and decades.”

He added that the lessons learned from the conflict in Ukraine made it clear how the U.S. military acquisition process can be changed for the better.

“What we’re seeing through the lens of Ukraine needs to be an acquisition … and procurement system that is hyper-speed, supersonic,” he said. “Because over there, we’re watching the changes in minutes, hours and days, and that is a very stark contrast” to what the U.S. does.

Fenton said changes to the requirements process, including simplifying it, as well as changes to authorities, could help SOCOM quickly get what it needs.

“If I could say it so bluntly, take more people out of that system, get less hands on the requirements process,” he told lawmakers. “Go from operator to commander and then acquisition.”

Fenton also suggested how changes in funding could benefit acquisition within Socom.

Funding for systems comes in the form of operations and maintenance funds; research, development, testing and engineering funds; and procurement funds. The Defense Department can’t easily move money between those budget lines, and that could be simplified, he said.

“I think there’s a way to take a lot of that off, compress the multiple lines to just a couple, and really modernize there,” Fenton said.

The general also asked for greater flexibility in how the department contracts new systems, particularly the option to increase the length of multiyear procurements.

“Give us an opportunity to think through multiyear processes,” he said. “Two years might seem multiyear, I think, to all of us. Multiyear probably needs to be five to 10 years so we can move at the speed and evolution of what we’re seeing out on the battlefield.”

By C. Todd Lopez, DOD News

Posted in Congress, Guest Post, SOF | 1 Comment »

The Department of Defense Warrior Games Celebrates 15th Anniversary and 100 Days Out with a Return to Colorado Springs

April 10th, 2025

Colorado Springs, Colorado – April 9, 2025 – The Department of Defense (DoD) is excited to announce that the Warrior Games are returning to Colorado Springs, Colorado, for the first time since 2018 for the 15th anniversary. This milestone year will showcase the strength, resilience, and unity of our wounded, ill, and injured service members representing five different teams on their road to healing and rehabilitation together. The 2025 DoD Warrior Games will take place July 18-26, 2025 at the main venue of Colorado College.

“As a community deeply rooted in military service and support for our nation’s heroes, Colorado Springs is once again honored to welcome the Warrior Games, a celebration of resilience, determination, and the unwavering spirit of our nation’s wounded and injured service members and veterans,” said Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade. “As Olympic City USA, we deeply value the power of sport to inspire, heal, and unite. To all the athletes, your courage and perseverance embody the very best of our country, and we are proud to stand with you and cheer you on.”

The DoD Warrior Games, a celebration and healing journey for wounded, ill, and injured service members alongside their family and friends, showcase the incredible power of the human spirit and the unwavering commitment of our military community. Five teams of participants will be representing all military services: U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy/Coast Guard, Air Force/Space Force, and the U.S. Special Operations Command. The participants will be competing in 11 different adaptive sports including Archery, Cycling, Field, Indoor Rowing, Powerlifting, Precision Air

Sports, Sitting Volleyball, Swimming, Track, Wheelchair Basketball, and Wheelchair Rugby.

“We love this event and everything it stands for, but nothing can compare to the impact this event has on the service members, their family and friends, and the fans,” said Mr. David Paschal, Director of the DoD Warrior Games. “This event is truly life-changing, and it is a tremendous honor for our team to have built this event into what it is today after 15 years and to have supported and encouraged thousands of service members on their road to healing and rehabilitation.”

The public are invited to join the celebration in the beautiful community of Colorado Springs this summer at the event’s main venue of Colorado College to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the DoD Warrior Games and support the service members who have or are serving our country.

“We are thrilled to be part of the Department of Defense Warrior Games at Colorado College this July,” said Lesley Irvine, Vice President and Director of Athletics at Colorado College. “This event is a celebration of resilience, determination, and the indomitable spirit of our nation’s service members and veterans. We look forward to welcoming these incredible athletes to our campus and providing a world-class experience for them, their families, and the community.”

More information about the Games, including the event schedule, volunteer opportunities, and ticketing information, will be available soon HERE.

Posted in Press Release, Veterans | Comments Off on The Department of Defense Warrior Games Celebrates 15th Anniversary and 100 Days Out with a Return to Colorado Springs

Diamondback Firearms Appoints Dave Larson as New Director of Marketing

April 10th, 2025

Cocoa, FL – Diamondback Firearms, a leading American firearms manufacturer, today announced the appointment of Dave Larson as Director of Marketing, effective immediately. Larson will report directly to Chief Executive Officer Faith Denman and is responsible for overseeing all marketing initiatives across the company’s product lines.

In his new role, Larson will lead the strategic direction of Diamondback Firearms’ comprehensive marketing efforts, including brand development, product launches, media buying, advertising campaigns, trade show representation, and digital presence. He will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure consistent brand messaging and drive market growth for the company’s diverse portfolio of firearms and accessories.

Larson brings extensive industry experience to Diamondback Firearms, most recently serving in a senior marketing position at Maxim Defense, where he successfully led global brand development initiatives and significantly expanded market presence. His demonstrated expertise in strategic positioning and consumer engagement within the firearms industry will be invaluable as Diamondback continues to strengthen its market position.

“Dave’s proven track record in building strong brands and driving growth makes him the ideal leader for our marketing efforts,” said Faith Denman, CEO of Diamondback Firearms. “His industry knowledge and innovative approach to marketing will help us continue to connect with our customers while expanding our reach in both domestic and international markets.”

Posted in Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Diamondback Firearms Appoints Dave Larson as New Director of Marketing

Strengthening the Backbone of Protective Textiles: Insights from Darinka Radic, Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin

April 10th, 2025

ZRENJANIN, SERBIA (09.04.2025)

Mehler Protective System d.o.o., part of the Mehler Protection brand within the Mehler Systems Group, is the production site located in Zrenjanin, Serbia. Specialising in textiles, this facility focuses on high-quality protective solutions for military, police, and security forces worldwide. As one of three strategic locations within the Mehler Protection brand—alongside Fulda and Königslutter—Mehler Protection Zrenjanin plays a critical role in the Group’s vertically integrated production network.

In a recent interview with Darinka Radic, Managing Director Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, we explored the company’s growth, its role within the Mehler Systems Group, and how it continues to meet the evolving demands of the protective textiles industry.

Q: Mehler Protection Zrenjanin has experienced significant growth over the years. What key milestones have defined this journey, and what drove your recent expansion?

A: Over the years, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin has grown significantly. A major milestone was the opening of our new 6,200 m² production hall in 2024, which brought our total workspace to 9,900 m² and land area to 49,000 m². This modern expansion includes cutting-edge production lines, a showroom, training zones, and a dedicated technology hub. It was driven by increasing global demand and our ambition to internalise more production processes. The expansion enables us to house advanced machinery, improve workflows, and scale our output efficiently—positioning us as a high-capacity production hub for Mehler Systems.

Q: How does this growth translate into workforce development and community impact?

A: We’ve grown from 206 employees in 2019 to 760 by early 2025. Workforce development is key to our success. We collaborate with local textile schools, support dual education programs, and have revived industrial seamstress training. Our on-site training center ensures new hires are well-prepared and continuously upskilled. This not only sustains our operations but also strengthens the local economy and provides long-term career opportunities.

Q: What challenges are currently shaping the protective textile industry, and how are you addressing them?

A: The industry is evolving rapidly. There’s growing demand for advanced multifunctional textiles, rising material costs, and increasing pressure to meet sustainability standards. At Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, we’re addressing these challenges by expanding internal capabilities, investing in alternative materials, and improving energy efficiency. By staying agile and focused on innovation, we continue to meet evolving market demands.

Q: Your current production capacity stands at approximately 3,000,000 minutes per month. How do you maintain high output while ensuring quality?

A: We’ve implemented a robust production planning system, advanced tracking technologies, and continuous interdepartmental collaboration. These tools help us manage resources effectively, monitor workflows in real time, and uphold the highest quality standards throughout production.

Q: What role does automation play in your operations?

A: Automation has been transformative. It enhances speed, accuracy, and consistency while reducing manual steps and human error. This has allowed us to increase efficiency and flexibility across production, enabling us to better respond to customer needs and scale output without compromising quality.

Q: How is innovation embedded in your production environment?

A: We actively invest in next-generation manufacturing techniques and textile innovations. Our adoption of digital monitoring systems enables us to optimise production processes, improve efficiency, and stay ahead of market trends. Innovation is a constant focus—it’s how we future-proof our operations and continue delivering top-tier protective solutions.

Q: What initiatives have you implemented to enhance sustainability?

A: Sustainability is central to our strategy. We’ve introduced energy-saving practices, waste reduction programs, and responsible sourcing of materials. Notably, we installed a solar power plant projected to generate over 200,000 kWh annually. These initiatives reduce our environmental footprint and align our operations with global sustainability standards.

Q: How does Mehler Protection Zrenjanin align with Mehler Systems’ overall strategy?

A: We are a cornerstone of Mehler Systems’ internal production strategy. Our vertically integrated and automation-driven facility supports the Group’s mission to maintain strict quality control, reduce dependency on external suppliers, and respond quickly to evolving customer requirements. Our contribution ensures delivery reliability and product excellence across the Group.

Q: What are your key priorities for the future?

A: Our focus is on scaling production, advancing automation, and fostering continuous workforce development. We aim to strengthen operational excellence and innovation while remaining committed to sustainable growth. Mehler Protection Zrenjanin is built to adapt, and we’re ready for what comes next.

About Mehler Protection Zrenjanin:

Mehler Protection Zrenjanin (officially Mehler Protective System d.o.o.) is the Serbian production facility of the Mehler Protection brand, operating under the Mehler Systems Group. The site specialises in the manufacturing of high-performance protective textiles for military, law enforcement, and security forces worldwide.

As one of three strategic Mehler Protection locations—alongside Fulda and Königslutter—it plays a key role in the Group’s vertically integrated production strategy. With ongoing investments in automation, facility expansion, and production capacity, Mehler Protection Zrenjanin is positioned as a reliable and scalable hub for advanced textile manufacturing within the defence and security sector.

About Darinka Radic:

Darinka Radic is the Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin, a role she has held since 2019. She began her career at Mehler Protection in 2009, leading logistics and customs operations, and played a key role in streamlining procedures and boosting efficiency. With previous experience managing a family business in transport, she brought strong leadership and decision-making skills into the corporate world. Under her guidance, the company has experienced continuous growth, marked by expanded facilities, increased production capacity, and strengthened operational performance.

Posted in Armor, International, Materials, Press Release | Comments Off on Strengthening the Backbone of Protective Textiles: Insights from Darinka Radic, Managing Director of Mehler Protection Zrenjanin

Representatives Krishnamoorthi, Auchincloss Request Investigation Into Possible Sanctions Violations By Yantai Iray Technology Co

April 10th, 2025

March 31, 2025, WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and the CCP and Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA) sent a letter to Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, requesting both departments investigate whether Yantai iRay Technology Co., Ltd. (“iRay”), a company in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) sanctioned by the Treasury Department, may be committingsanctions violations via a network of subsidiaries and directly related companies in the United States.

Among these subsidiaries is iRayUSA, who after iRay’s sanctioning in May 2024 for supplying Russia-based end users with controlled, dual-use technology claimed to its U.S. distributors that “iRayUSA’s manufacturing partner is a separate entity” from iRay. However, government filings along with other publicly available information strongly suggest that iRayUSA’s contention is false and that it, along with InfiRay Outdoor, Visir Inc. (brand name RIX Optics), and Inlumen Technologies (brand name Nocpix) may be violating U.S. sanctions by continuing to sell and distribute iRay products in the United States.

Reps. Krishnamoorthi and Auchincloss write in the letter, “Given their subsidiary or other close relationship with iRay, InfiRay Outdoor, iRayUSA, Visir Inc., and Inlumen Technologies appear to potentially be in violation of U.S. sanctions. Your agencies should also consider whether the operations of these entities pose a national security risk to the United States given the dual-use nature of their products and the sensitive data obtained through them. Thermal technology is a critical enabler of lethality and capability on the modern battlefield, and PLA access to U.S. thermal sensor data could allow it to refine its own capabilities while degrading U.S. leadership in this field.”

The Treasury Department imposed sanctions on iRay on May 1, 2024 for operating in the technology sector of the Russian Federation, including by supplying Russia-based end users with items like telescopic thermal sights and military thermal imagers controlled by the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security Common High Priority List.

“It is highly concerning that iRay, a company sanctioned for supporting Russia’s brutal and illegal invasion of Ukraine, appears to still be peddling its products in the United States through a shell game of U.S.-based subsidiaries,” said Ranking Member Krishnamoorthi. “In addition, iRay’s potential access to data from American users of its advanced targeting technologies could allow China’s military to dominate these capabilities at U.S. expense. We urge the Treasury and Commerce Departments to investigate this activity and appropriate enforcement actions.”

“Federal authorities must enforce sanctions against Chinese & Russian military cooperation,”said Congressman Auchincloss. “Appeasement of one is weakness to another.”

The members request the Treasury Department and Commerce Department provide them with a briefing on any information available to the departments regarding iRay and its subsidiaries by no later than April 11, 2025.

Posted in Congress, Industry, International, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on Representatives Krishnamoorthi, Auchincloss Request Investigation Into Possible Sanctions Violations By Yantai Iray Technology Co

Rotapoint SANCHO Mount, Achieve True Heads-Up Shooting

April 10th, 2025

In the quest for a true “heads-up” shooting position with Night Observation Devices (NODs), mounts fall short. Traditional risers only adjust the Y-axis (height) of your red dot, leaving the X-axis (lateral alignment) untouched. This forces you to turn your head to align with the optic, slowing your target acquisition, straining your neck, and breaking your natural point of aim. We saw the problem—and we fixed it.

Introducing the SANCHO™ Mount, the first red dot riser designed to adjust the X-axis for a faster, more comfortable, and natural alignment with or without NODs. Engineered for shooters who demand speed and precision in all situations, the SANCHO Mount ensures your red dot aligns easily with your natural point of aim, reducing neck strain and letting you focus on the target, reticle, and trigger.

Why SANCHO Changes the Game

Unlike other mounts on the market, the SANCHO Mount optimizes lateral and vertical placement to complement your natural point of aim. By fine-tuning the X-axis, SANCHO positions your red dot exactly where your eyes naturally look when using NODs—no more awkward head-turning or compromised cheek weld. Whether you’re conducting night operations, hunting in low-light conditions, or training with night vision, the SANCHO Mount delivers speed and comfort.

Key Features

X-Axis Offset: Adjusts the lateral position of your red dot up to align with your natural head position, ensuring a true heads-up posture with NODs.

Optimized for Night Vision: Designed specifically for use with NODs, providing a comfortable sight picture without excessive neck dip or rotation. Additionally, it aids with target acquisition while wearing a protective mask.

Durable Construction: Machined from 7075-T651 aluminum with a hard coat-anodized finish, built to withstand the toughest conditions.

Proudly Made in the USA.

Universal Compatibility: Fits all Picatinny rails and red dot mounts.

Parallel Zero: if you can adjust your point of aim at various distances, you’ll learn how to aim just slightly laterally with consistent and predictable point of impact.

Light weight: Under 3 ounces, with rigid I-beam design and premium material.

Reversible for left and right hand use. If you shoot with your non-dominant hand, simply cant the rifle. Uses minimal upper receiver space while providing full mounting surface for EOTech XPS, Aimpoint Pro, etc.

Benefits:

Faster Target Acquisition: Align your red dot with your natural point of aim for quicker, more instinctive aiming, particularly in low-light scenarios.

Reduced Neck Strain: Minimize head-turning and maintain a comfortable posture, even during extended operations with NODs.

Enhanced Comfort: Achieve a consistent cheek weld and heads-up position, improving situational awareness, with reduced fatigue.

Tactical Advantage: Stay focused on your surroundings with a sight picture that works with your body’s natural alignment.

Versatility: Ideal for all shooters, but particularly military, law enforcement, hunters, and tactical enthusiasts using night vision setups. Also assists greatly with gas mask and face shield use.

rotapoint.com/products/sancho

Posted in Optics, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 4 Comments »

Find Noble Supply & Logistics on GSA & AbilityOne Commercial Platforms

April 10th, 2025

There are many ways for government to procure the various equipment and supplies it needs to accomplish the mission. With the launch of the Government Service Administration Commercial Platform, ordering has come to the Internet making it is as convenient as doing your shopping at home. In fact, they’ll deliver your order, right to your unit or agency’s door.

The Commercial Platforms program was established in response to Section 846 of the fiscal year 2018 National Defense Authorization Act. Since March 27, 2024, Noble Supply & Logistics has been a part of the GSA web-based commercial platform which is built specifically to support government purchasing rules and leverage the ease-of-use of the Government Purchase Card.

As a certified small business, Noble participates on this platform to offer access to commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) items in the commodity areas of Food Sevice, Furniture, Industrial (including MRO), Janitorial & Sanitation, Office Supplies, and Technology (including 899 compliance). The GSA platform also opens access to AbilityOne products.

According to GSA there are several advantages to using this platform:

– Access to commercial product catalogs

– B2B pricing benefits like volume discounts, tiered pricing, and more

– No minimum order quantities

– Automatic tax exemption

– Product availability, speedy delivery, and clear ordering tracking

– Order history reports and printable invoices to aid credit card reconciliation

Noble leverages a supply chain of over 15,000 suppliers and millions of products, but if you don’t see what you need, they’ll get it for you.

If you’re looking for a convenient way to purchase equipment and supplies for your unit or agency without the lengthy and cumbersome solicitation process, but with full GSA approval and oversight, check this program out.

Visit gsacp.noble.com to set up your account and learn more.

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts | Comments Off on Find Noble Supply & Logistics on GSA & AbilityOne Commercial Platforms

98-year-old Pilot Sees Skyraider Legacy Live on in AFSOC’s OA-1K Skyraider II

April 10th, 2025

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —

At 98 years old, retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Bill Buice never imagined he’d see another Skyraider take flight.

Looking ahead, he smiled as the hum of the aircraft’s turboprop engine deepened as it drew closer.

Joined by his family and members of Air Force Special Operations Command, Buice watched as the first missionized OA-1K Skyraider II arrived at Hurlburt Field, Florida, April 3, 2025.

As the OA-1K Skyraider II taxied, Buice said the moment brought back a wave of memories. To him, this was more than a new aircraft—it was a tribute to the original A-1 Skyraider, the plane he piloted during the Vietnam War until the day he was shot down nearly 60 years ago.

***

Rolling in for a pass to inspect the area below, Buice heard a sudden explosion.

It was July 9, 1968, and Buice, call sign “Firefly 16,” and his wingman, “Firefly 17,” were providing cover for a formation of American helicopters flying in northern Laos, near the Vietnam border.

Looking through the canopy of his A-1 Skyraider, he spotted a fire on the left wing of his aircraft.

Buice dumped the hydraulic system pressure to extinguish the flames. It worked, but the wing had a gaping hole, and the magnesium casting continued to burn.

He pulled the aircraft into a climbing turn, looking for a place to land. His teammates warned him over the radio.

“Not in the valley, whatever you do,” they urged, warning the enemy could be there.

Knowing he would soon lose complete control of the aircraft, he reversed his rudder controls, forcing the A-1 into a faster roll. Inverting the plane, he pulled the ejection handle as soon as he could see the sky through the canopy.

“The canopy disappeared with a bang,” Buice recalled. “Then nothing.”

He saw the jungle rushing up. His airspeed increased and altitude dropped. He pulled the handle again.

The rocket fired, pulling him from the cockpit. His parachute deployed, slowing his descent. He crashed through the jungle, hitting a tree and injuring his shoulder and quickly realized he couldn’t move his right arm.

Hearing noise nearby, he used his left hand to reach for his pistol and call for help with his radio.

Moments later, an Air America helicopter arrived. Owned and operated by the CIA, Air America was a cargo and passenger airline that provided air support for the U.S. and its allies during the Vietnam War.

A pilot came down to help Buice onto the lift, but as they ascended, the weight was too much.

“I insisted that he join me for the trip up, but it was too heavy,” Buice recalled. “So I gave him my radio and pistol, and he stayed behind, hoping another chopper would get to him before the bad guys did.”

Buice was airlifted to Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand for urgent medical treatment. Ultimately, his shoulder injury would end his 20-year Air Force career.

For decades, Buice often thought about the man who had rescued him, wondering if he made it out alive.

***

Sitting beside Buice at the OA-1K delivery ceremony was Phillip Jennings, a retired Air America helicopter pilot—the very man who had saved him that day. Over the years, the two had reunited only a handful of times, making this moment even more special, Jennings noted.

“I knew from the moment I watched him get shot down that we would have to go get him,” Jennings said. “I’m elated to be able to be here to see him be recognized and honored. He was the real hero that day, saving the Air America helicopters from landing in the deadly gunfire that shot his A-1 down.”

Though the crash ended his flying career, Buice said he has always felt a connection to the A-1 Skyraider.

As a pilot, Buice liked the A-1 for it’s ability to fly for an extended period while also being able to carry a large payload of ammunition.

The OA-1K Skyraider II now carries on that role, equipped with advanced weapons systems for light attack and reconnaissance missions for AFSOC.

Taking a moment to look at the new aircraft, Buice reflected on what it meant for the next generation of Skyraider pilots.

“I hope they embrace the challenges, the accomplishments—even the fear and the adrenaline,” he said. “There will be a day when they can no longer do this. Today is not that day.”

Today, Buice lives at the Hawthorne House, an assisted living neighborhood in the Air Force Enlisted Village in nearby Shalimar, Florida. The Air Force Enlisted Village is a community for retired enlisted military members and their surviving spouses.

By SSgt Natalie Fiorilli, Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Guest Post, History, SOF, Veterans | Comments Off on 98-year-old Pilot Sees Skyraider Legacy Live on in AFSOC’s OA-1K Skyraider II