It’s a great title, “Three Months from Poster to Product,” this entry discusses a 7.62 NATO Projectile that defeats level IV armor at just 2,375 fps thanks to the projectile.
For those interested, POC data is on the poster.
2024 NDIA Future Forces Conference Poster #3 – The Frangible Armor Piercing Projectile Story
October 16th, 2024GA-ASI’s Gray Eagle Extended Range UAS Supports Army Vanguard Demos
October 16th, 2024SAN DIEGO – 15 October 2024 – As part of the U.S. Army’s Vanguard demonstrations that took place in Fort Huachuca, Arizona, on Sept. 17–18, 2024, a Gray Eagle Extended Range (GE-ER) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) provided by the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) showcased several new capabilities, including the integration of an Expeditionary Cyber Chassis (ECC) for Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) and Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) with Communications Intelligence (COMINT) and Mobile Ad Hoc Networking (MANET) radios from Silvus Technologies.
Sponsored by Col. Danielle Medaglia, Product Manager for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, and operated by U.S. Army Soldiers, the GE-ER successfully demonstrated data relay and voice communication over significant distances, extending the range, quality, and speed of data exchanges for ground units. The demonstration also verified the capability of relaying video and chat messages between ground users equipped with Silvus 4200 MANET radios, highlighting the progress being made in enhancing tactical communications and situational awareness.
While utilizing the COMINT system, Gray Eagle was able to detect stationary and moving targets at significant ranges and provide data for analysis to expeditionary intelligence cells. This expansion of Gray Eagle capabilities is due to its open architecture, which exemplifies the Army’s Transformation in Contact (TIC) concept. The Army benefits by using an existing system to reduce risk and impacts while gaining new capabilities without the prolonged timelines of an acquisition new start.
“We’re excited to work with our Army customer to increase the relevance and capabilities of the GE-ER platform,” said Chris MacFarland, sector vice president of Strategic Development for Army Programs. “These efforts of Vanguard to demonstrate new capabilities hosted on CMOSS hardware will improve the Army’s premier UAS platform in supporting advanced UAS operations.”
Built by GA-ASI and operated by the U.S. Army, the GE-ER participating in the exercise represents the future capabilities of the Gray Eagle 25M’s open architecture design, allowing for rapid integration of vendor-agnostic sensors, radios, and payloads needed for Multi-Domain Operations. The ability to fully integrate internally mounted long-range sensors and launched effects, while controlling them with modernized laptop ground control systems, significantly enhances its survivability and lethality. Along with advanced data links, resilient GPS navigation systems, and an upgraded propulsion system, the GE 25M is resilient to electronic threats when deployed in expeditionary and austere locations.
TNVC Announces Caption Contest for Night Ops Summit Attendance
October 16th, 2024Dilley, TX – TNVC, the leading provider of night vision and tactical equipment, is thrilled to offer a unique opportunity for tactical training enthusiasts. Participants can win a spot at Greenline Tactical’s Night Ops Summit, scheduled for November 22-24, 2024, at The Ranch in Dilley, TX, by entering the TNVC Caption Contest.
Contestants must caption this specific photo provided by TNVC and confirm their availability to attend the summit in its entirety. The winner will receive free registration to the summit, gaining access to three days of intensive tactical training sessions led by industry experts.
Entries should be submitted through the TNVC website, where participants will also confirm their ability to handle personal travel and equipment logistics.
Entry Requirements:
– Provide a creative caption for the designated photo.
– Confirm availability for November 22-24, 2024.
– Submit your entry via the TNVC website.
This contest aims to highlight TNVC’s commitment to supporting the tactical community but also the importance of advancing training opportunities for low light and no light operations.
ENTER HERE: tnvc.com/caption-contest-night-ops-summit-giveaway
Wake County Sheriff’s Office Selects FN 509 Fullsize MRD-LE as New Duty Pistol
October 16th, 2024(McLean, VA — October 15, 2024) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce that the Wake County (Raleigh, NC) Sheriff’s Office has selected the FN 509® Fullsize MRD-LE as their new duty pistol. The Sheriff’s Office reached this decision after a year of testing multiple manufacturers’ pistols.
Purchasing over 500 pistols, the Wake County Sheriff’s Office is the first agency to deploy the new FN 509 Fullsize MRD-LE. This model is based on the FN 509 MRD-LE that was adopted by the Los Angeles Police Department in 2021. With nearly 1,000 employees, the Wake County Sheriff’s Office serves the largest county in North Carolina, with over 1.1 million residents across 12 municipalities.
“The Wake County Sheriff’s Office is the largest sheriff’s office in the state, and we are thrilled that they are switching to the FN 509 Fullsize MRD-LE as their duty pistol of choice,” said Doug Grier, Law Enforcement Business Development Director for FN America, LLC. “As Wake County began their selection process over a year ago, they wanted a pistol that was safe, reliable, accurate and optics-ready, plus a brand partner they could trust to stand behind their products. FN met those needs with our commitment to service along with a duty pistol designed for law enforcement, by law enforcement.”
The FN 509 Fullsize MRD-LE, which launched earlier this year, is the law enforcement version of the commercially available FN 509 Fullsize MRD. While the bulk of the agency’s purchase is the FN 509 Fullsize MRD-LE customized with the Wake County Sheriff’s Office badge, they also selected the FN 509 Compact MRD-LE for their detectives and department staff, plus customized FN 509s for their SWAT officers.
“The decision to upgrade the Sheriff’s Office’s weapons was not taken lightly,” said Wake County Sheriff Willie Rowe. “We understand the importance of equipping our deputies with the best tools possible to ensure their safety and effectiveness in the field. The aging hammer-fired handguns were nearing the end of their life expectancy, and it was crucial to find a suitable replacement that would meet the Sheriff’s Office’s needs for years to come.”
The decision to upgrade was followed by a year-long quest to find the optimal pistol for the Wake County Sherriff Office’s needs.
“The test and evaluation processes were a vital step in choosing the new duty weapon,” said Sherriff Rowe. “Our team collected feedback from deputies who tested different brand name weapons in various configurations. They also gathered pertinent data on each weapon’s performance, reliability and ease of use. After carefully reviewing all the information, I concluded that the FN 509 was the best choice for the Wake County Sheriff’s Office.”
The agency purchased optics-ready pistols and holsters, and, as part of the partnership, FN conducted classes on the duty use of red dot optics and provided armorer training. Since completing qualification and issuing FN pistols to their officers, Wake has seen dramatic improvement in their officer marksmanship scores.
“The FN 509 was selected for its user-friendly design, striker fire mechanism and overall performance. Deputies found it easy to handle and shoot accurately, which is essential in high-pressure situations. The weapon’s reliability and durability were also key factors in the decision-making process,” added Sheriff Rowe. “I am confident that the FN 509 will provide our deputies with the capability to effectively carry out their duties and protect the community.”
About the FN 509F MRD-LE
The new FN 509 Fullsize MRD-LE delivers more precision and versatility than any other duty-rated handgun. Building on the proven FN 509 lineup, the exclusive upgrades for law enforcement place every advantage in an officer’s hands.
The FN 509 MRD-LE is the only choice for agencies that require complete reliability. With unmatched longevity in the most demanding trials, the FN 509 platform has been tested beyond one million rounds. With a polished feed ramp and chamber, consistent feeding and extraction exceed every standard, plus the platform is compatible with a wide variety of training and duty ammunition.
Pinpoint accuracy is made possible for all officers with a precision, hammer-forged barrel with recessed target crown, high-performance, conical striker and flat-faced, duty-rated trigger. With a positive wall at 90° before a clean break, officers maintain their sights on target through the full trigger pull. The FN Low-Profile Optics-Mounting System™, adapted from the original development for the U.S. Army’s handgun trials, gives officers more precision and sighting versatility than all other handguns — vital when every shot must be accounted for.
To inquire about the family of FN 509 MRD-LE pistols for agency or individual office purchase, please contact the FN Law Enforcement Sales team at LE@fnamerica.com. More information about the family of FN 509 MRD-LE or FN’s other law enforcement products can be found here.
Get in on the Arc’teryx LEAF Auction for SOC-F
October 15th, 2024?To coincide with a live event at the Washington, DC Arc’teryx store, LEAF is opening an auction up to the web.
There are some great one-of-kind items like these jackets as well as a special plate carrier from Ferro Concepts created from an Alpha jacket.
Proceeds benefit the Special Operations Care Fund which supports SOF veterans and their families.
Sign up here, you’ve got to register to bid. This just popped up and won’t be open for long.
FYI, only 10 digit phone numbers can participate.
EXOSENS’ Subsidiary PHOTONIS Wins Key Role in UK MOD’S Talon Fused Weapon Sight Contract
October 15th, 2024MÉRIGNAC, FRANCE – 11TH OCTOBER 2024
• Photonis and Qioptiq join forces to enhance British Army’s combat capabilities with cutting-edge imaging technology
• This 7-year framework contract aims at equipping British soldiers with Qioptiq’s advanced TALON Fused Weapon Sights
Photonis, an Exosens subsidiary and global leader in image intensification technology, has been awarded a significant role in a seven-year contract from the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) in collaboration with Qioptiq Limited. This contract is aimed at enhancing the operational effectiveness of British Army assault rifles.
Awarded by the Dismounted Close Combat project team, the contract focuses on the continued procurement of the TALON Fused Weapon Sight, an advanced system that integrates image intensification with thermal imaging (see picture below). Photonis will supply the high-performance 4G 16mm image intensifier tubes for the TALON systems, contributing to the overall performance and reliability of these critical combat devices.
The TALON Fused Weapon Sight is an integral part of the UK MoD’s Assault Rifle In-Line Low Light Sight (ARILLS) capability. It is designed to provide British soldiers with superior visibility and situational awareness in low-light environments and difficult operational settings.
“Photonis is proud to be part of this strategic initiative to enhance the British Army’s combat effectiveness,” said Frédéric Guilhem, Chief Commercial Officer from Photonis. “Our world-class image intensification technology will ensure that British forces are equipped with the best possible technology for success in critical operations.”
Qioptiq Limited, a leader in advanced optical and sighting systems, is responsible for delivering the TALON Fused Weapon Sight. With its dual-channel capability, which seamlessly combines image intensification and thermal imaging, the TALON system ensures interoperability with the existing fleet, continuing to play a vital role in the Army’s close combat operations.
At the heart of this system is the Photonis high-performance 4G 16mm image intensifier tube, renowned for its unmatched resolution and SWaP reduction (Size Weight and Power). This advanced intensifier tube allows soldiers to detect and identify targets with superior clarity, even in the darkest and most adverse nights. The compact 16mm format offers significant weight and space savings without compromising performance, ensuring enhanced mobility and operational efficiency for the user.
This contract underscores Photonis’ commitment to delivering innovative imaging solutions tailored to the needs of modern defense forces. As part of Exosens Group, Photonis continues to be at the forefront of technological advancements, offering unrivaled expertise in image intensification for military applications.
Flyer Defense and Tekne Partner to Manufacture and Supply Flyer 72 Ground Mobility Vehicles for the Italian Armed Forces
October 15th, 2024
Flyer Family of Light Tactical Ground Mobility Vehicles
LOS ANGELES (Oct. 14, 2024) – Flyer Defense is proud to announce the signing of a strategic agreement with Tekne, a leading Italian defense solutions provider, to jointly manufacture and supply the Flyer 72-Heavy Duty (Flyer 72-HD) tactical ground mobility vehicle to the Italian Armed Forces and other NATO allies. This collaboration combines the expertise of both companies to deliver the internally and externally air transportable, high-mobility vehicle that meets the unique operational needs of Italy’s military.
The Flyer 72-HD and it’s ruggedized engineering offers exceptional off-road performance and mission-tailored flexibility, making it highly effective for specialized operations. Through this partnership, Flyer and Tekne will establish local manufacturing and support capabilities within Italy, ensuring efficient delivery, long-term sustainment, and seamless integration of the vehicle into the Italian defense landscape.
“We are excited to collaborate with Tekne and bring the Flyer 72 HD to Italy as well as other NATO-allied countries,” said Flyer Defense Founder and CEO, Oded Nechushtan. “This partnership represents a significant step forward in expanding our international presence, while reinforcing our commitment to growing our U.S. manufacturing capabilities. We will continue to manufacture in the United States, as well as establish a local production base in Italy.”
Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc. Unveils Squad Support Rifle System (SSRS) at AUSA Annual Meeting
October 15th, 2024MURFREESBORO, TENNESSEE — Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc. has unveiled the Squad Support Rifle System (SSRS), its entrant into the U.S. Army’s Precision Grenadier System (PGS) Program, at this year’s Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C.
As a part of Barrett’s continued commitment to delivering innovative, battle-proven solutions for U.S. and allied soldiers, the SSRS is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern combat.
Barrett has teamed with MARS Inc., an innovative tech start-up and finalist in the U.S. Army’s xTechSoldier Lethality competition. This strategic collaboration brings together two innovators in soldier lethality systems to develop a next-generation 30mm support rifle.
“We are excited to be working with Barrett, the world’s premier soldier weapons manufacturer, to mature our 30mm Support Rifle System for the U.S. Army’s PGS Program,” Michael Merino, President of MARS Inc, said. “Together, we’re developing a solution that will greatly enhance the soldier’s ability to engage a wide range of battlefield threats.”
The SSRS will offer soldiers an advanced counter-defilade capability and the ability to defeat Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and dismounted soldier targets. Designed for the U.S. Army’s upcoming PGS solicitation expected in FY2026, Barrett will head a team of industry-leading partners to develop a cutting-edge system optimized for lethality and soldier safety.
“Barrett will bring together a team of innovative partners to deliver a PGS solution that incorporates unique technologies optimizing lethality and soldier safety,” Bryan James, CEO of Barrett, said. “The SSRS is a key part of our expanded product line, offering new capabilities that enhance the effectiveness of allied forces on the battlefield.”
The U.S. Army announced the launch of the PGS program during an industry day event at Picatinny Arsenal in August. As a part of this initiative, Barrett’s SSRS is positioned to play a critical role in shaping the future of soldier weapons systems.
Attendees of the AUSA Annual Meeting are invited to visit the Barrett booth #3615 to view a model of the MARS xTech demonstration system and learn more about Barrett’s vision for the future of soldier lethality.
