TYR Tactical

WRAIR Advances Neurostimulation Research in New Partnership with NATO Committee

November 28th, 2024

On October 16, 2024, the NATO Neurostimulation Committee visited the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research’s (WRAIR) Sleep Research Center (SRC). Hosted by Dr. Tracy Jill Doty, Chief of the SRC, the visit focused on learning about ongoing fatigue mitigation research using neurostimulation.

The NATO Neurostimulation Committee is a working group of leading researchers in neuroscience, cognition, and brain function. Established in July 2024, the committee addresses common limitations in neurostimulation research by conducting large-scale, multi-laboratory experiments across multiple countries. Its mission is to advance the understanding of cognitive performance enhancement through robust and thorough investigations. The committee’s work centers on neurostimulation, a field that encompasses various technologies and techniques for targeting specific brain regions. Dr. Doty, an expert in sleep and fatigue, provides valuable insights to these efforts.

“The committee didn’t previously have an expert in sleep and fatigue, but it’s a critical area where neurostimulation technology could make a substantial impact,” Dr. Doty explained. “Applying neurostimulation to maintain brain health under fatigue conditions is a growing field, and this partnership between the committee and the SRC is a natural fit.”

The SRC contributes to the committee’s international research efforts by developing brain stimulation methods to enhance slow-wave sleep and help service members maintain alertness during extended operations. These capabilities, including pioneering advancements in slow-wave sleep enhancement, have been a hallmark of the SRC’s work.

Service members often face challenges such as insufficient sleep or limited rest periods, which significantly impair cognitive performance and mission readiness. Studies show that a single night of sleep deprivation can impair alertness and cognition to levels comparable to a 0.08% blood alcohol concentration.

“The Sleep Research Center is at the forefront of neurostimulation technology,” said Dr. Doty. “We’re eager to explore new opportunities to advance this technology for military applications.”

Although still in its early stages, this collaboration between the SRC and the NATO Neurostimulation Committee holds significant promise for improving service members’ cognitive resilience and overall brain health.

Story by Zeke Gonzalez 

Walter Reed Army Institute of Research

XTech Tactical Releases Upgraded over Factory Steel Reinforced Glock Compatible Magazines

November 27th, 2024

November 26th, 2024

Tempe, AZ

Years in the making, XTech Tactical proudly announces its standard and extended capacity Glock compatible magazines! The magazines continue the company’s MAG series of steel reinforced polymer magazines that was first released and well established as the new standard for AK-47 magazines.

Key features of all the MAG magazines for Glock include:

– 17-17 Stainless Steel Plus Power Springs vs OE music wire

– Proprietary Delrin Blend “No- Stick” Follower

– Enhanced Baseplate with Side-Scallops for rapid extraction

– Steel Reinforced Factory Clone Magazine Bodies

– Fit EVERYTHING, pistols, pcc, magwells etc

“A few years back we determined that to hit our goals as the world’s leading magazine & magazine extension company, mags for Glocks were a must. A core pillar of our business is to raise the standards for quality, durability & innovation in our market, and the MAG line does just that. As XTech is known for, we gave our customers a voice. They wanted better springs, they wanted better baseplates, they wanted more capacity options, and they wanted a better baseline price. We are excited that we were able to hit each of those notes!”, stated Jeremy Deadman, company President.

Initial flush fit offerings now shipping are:

1. MAG17-17   17 round flush fit magazine, SKU XT3030001, MSRP $24.95

2. MAG17-17 2pack     2 pack of MAG17-17, SKU XT3030002, MSRP $42.95

3. MAG19-15 1 15 round flush fit magazine, SKUXT3030101, MSRP $24.95

4. MAG19-15 2pack     2 pack of MAG19-15, SKU XT3030102, MSRP $42.95

Additionally, XTech Tactical is offering extended magazines that ship with its MAG-ADAPT line

1. MAG19-17 17 round extended magazine for Glock 19 w/o front scallop cut

a. Includes MAG17-17 & MAG-ADAPT 19-17

b. SKU XT3030601, MSRP $34.95

2. MAG19-17 G5 17 round extended magazine for Glock 19 with front scallop cut

a. Includes MAG17-17 & MAG-ADAPT 19-17 G5

b. SKU XT3030801, MSRP $34.95

3. MAG26-15 15 round extended magazine for Glock 26

a. Includes MAG19-15 & MAG-ADAPT 26-15

b. SKU XT3031001, MSRP $37.95

4. MAG26-17 17 round extended magazine for Glock 26

a. Includes MAG17-17 & MAG-ADAPT 26-17

b. SKU XT3031201, MSRP $39.95

www.xtechtactical.com/shop/magazines/glock-magazines

Bombardier Defense Delivers First Global 6500 Aircraft To The U.S. Army’s HADES Program

November 27th, 2024

Bombardier Defense delivered the first Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft in support of the United States Army’s High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System (HADES) program during a ceremony held at Bombardier Group’s U.S. Headquarters in Wichita, Kansas

The Global 6500 is a proven platform providing range, speed, reliability and endurance. It represents the ideal fixed-wing solution for the U.S. Army’s next-generation intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft, flying higher, faster and farther than legacy airborne sensor platforms

With the ability to deploy in all weather conditions, and the support of Bombardier’s 24/7 worldwide services network, Bombardier’s Global family of aircraft has become the platform of choice for over 10 different mission types


The Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft delivered to the U.S. Army in support of the HADES program.

Bombardier Defense celebrated the delivery of the first Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft to the United States Army in support of the High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System (HADES) program. Bolstered by the Global 6500’s high-performance capabilities, the fixed-wing platform will contribute to strengthening the U.S. Army’s aerial deep sensing abilities and marks a significant milestone toward the United States’ goal of modernizing its aerial military intelligence.

Joined by U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS), State of Kansas officials, and U.S. Army leaders, the celebration highlighted the delivery of the first prototype airframe for the next-generation intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) solution and the beginning of the next stage of the program to integrate systems.

“Bombardier Defense is honored to support the U.S. Army with the delivery of the first Global 6500aircraft, a high-performance platform that possesses the speed, endurance-at-range and altitude capabilities to support deep-sensing for the Army of tomorrow,” said Steve Patrick, Vice President of Bombardier Defense. “This best-in-class jet is the future-proofed solution to provide the U.S. Army with the capabilities needed to face current and future threats.”

“We are proud of the partnership with Bombardier Defense and the mission-focused professionals in the State of Kansas. We remain excited about the opportunities we can unlock by pairing the performance, versatility and reliability of the Global 6500 with modern payloads aligned to priority intelligence requirements. HADES is the centerpiece of the Army’s collection strategy, and the Global 6500 is the system that brings that strategy to life. This aircraft gives us the range, payload capacity, speed and endurance to deliver timely, relevant and responsive capabilities for the full spectrum of Army and Joint collection requirements.” – Andrew Evans, Director, HQDA G-2 ISR Task Force

“The partnership between Bombardier, the U.S. Army and the Wichita workforce has produced a next-generation aircraft equipped to meet the demands of warfare in a new era of technology,” said U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS). “The HADES aircraft has the tools needed to deter threats, conduct surveillance and help keep our country safe. This is the start of a new chapter in the aviation capabilities of our military and continues Kansas’ legacy of defense manufacturing.”

Fixed-wing platforms like Bombardier’s Global 6500aircraft, which flies faster, longer, and higher than legacy airborne sensor platforms, offer a significant advantage toward enhancing performance of aerial ISR missions. The Global 6500 provides several advantages for military entities, such as reliability, operational reach, and expanded operating areas. With a maximum endurance of up to 18 hours, and up to 750 flight hours between maintenance intervals, and part of the Global family that has an impressive 99.83% dispatch reliability, the Global 6500 aircraft is an ideal choice to accomplish operational objectives such as deep sensing.

Bombardier Defense has dedicated in-house engineering and support teams available 24/7 worldwide with the ability to incorporate modifications tailored to the customer’s need with complete certification capabilities across the full spectrum of civilian, military and hybrid operations. Bombardier brings decades of experience working with special mission operators and renowned mission systems integrators to adapt its proven platform for critical operations worldwide.

2024 NDIA Future Forces Conference Poster #7 – Scalable Suppression Technology

November 27th, 2024

The Thunderbeast Arms Ultra50 suppressor technology is available in .338 and .300 configurations.

As always, the POC data is on the poster for those interested in learning more.

Kimber Releases High Capacity 1911 – the 2K11

November 27th, 2024

TROY, AL — Kimber, Mfg., Inc., is excited to announce their latest introduction with the 2K11.

Kimber continues to add to their exciting line of product releases for 2024 with this latest introduction, the 2K11. This all-new high capacity 1911 incorporates a number of features that elevate the performance of this product category above any current production variant.

The new Kimber 2K11 debuts in a standard and target configuration and each model is chambered in 9mm as well as 45 ACP. The standard model comes with 3 magazines and 1 C&H® optic mounting plate for Trijicon RMR type footprints. Three additional optic mounting plates are available to support a variety of preferences. The target models also come standard with 3 magazines and 1 C&H® optic mounting plate, plus the target models feature a ported slide, adjustable rear target sight as well as a Kimber exclusive Stan Chen Customs® competition magwell.

Designed from hammer to muzzle to incorporate elements many consumers have asked for, the 2K11 features an external extractor for increased reliability and durability. It also features a type III hard anodized aluminum grip module. The 2K11 also has improved internal geometry that enhances the reliability of feeding the high-capacity magazines. Finally, the Kimber signature GT Trigger is unlike any other production trigger on the market. Breaking at a consistent 3.5lbs – there is no other production trigger on the market that can match the sharp wall, crisp break and performance of a Kimber. This combined with the patent pending tool-less guide rod for ease of disassembly and cleaning highlights 5 unique attributes that set the Kimber 2K11 apart from every other model on the market.

Everett Deger, Director of Marketing and Communications stated: “We were determined to produce the very best high capacity 1911 and deliver a superior value. The 2K11 has several unique features that come standard that you have to have customized in the aftermarket to achieve what you get out of the box with Kimber.”

Like every Kimber currently in their vast line up, the 2K11 comes with a limited Lifetime Warranty. See the full lineup of Kimber firearms on their website kimberamerica.com. Because a Kimber is What All Guns Should Be™.

Gentex Corporation Awarded Navy OTA for Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet Program

November 27th, 2024

CARBONDALE, PA, November 26th, 2024 – Gentex Corporation, a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, aircrew, emergency responders and industrial personnel, has been awarded an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) by the U.S. Navy to develop the Navy’s Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet (NGFWH) program. This further signifies Gentex’s commitment to providing cutting-edge protection for military aircrew and marks an important step forward in Naval Aviation safety and innovation.

Through this OTA, the NGFWH will complete qualification and achieve airworthiness and production readiness qualifications for use on Navy fixed wing aircraft including the E-2D, F/A-18, EA-18G, T-45 and T-6. Designed to meet the evolving mission requirements of Naval Aviation, the NGFWH is set to become the Navy’s standard helmet for its fixed-wing, tactical aviators.

The NGFWH will deliver a more advanced and adaptable helmet system and will provide a platform for future upgrades, ensuring the system evolves with the needs of Navy aircrew. Key System Attributes (KSAs) for the NGFWH include improved mass properties such as reduced weight, optimized center of gravity and balanced principal moments of inertia.

“Gentex Corporation is honored to be awarded a Navy OTA for the Next Generation Fixed Wing Helmet program. This partnership reflects our continued commitment to delivering cutting-edge protection and performance for those who serve, and we are dedicated to supporting the Navy’s mission with the highest standards of performance and safety,” said Rob Stimis, Fixed Wing Segment Director at Gentex Corporation.

This program will span approximately 18 months, culminating in a helmet system that represents the next generation of fixed-wing pilot safety and mission capability. Operational fielding of the NGFWH is anticipated to begin in late 2025.

First of the First: 11th Air Task Force Conducts First Field Exercise

November 27th, 2024

McGREGOR RANGE, N.M. —

The 11th Air Task Force conducted its first field training exercise at McGregor Range, New Mexico, Nov. 4-19, 2024.

As the Air Force shifts toward a more agile, team-oriented force structure, the exercise united Airmen from Davis-Monthan and Holloman Air Force Base to test and refine new concepts for combat readiness.

“This is the future of the Air Force,” said  U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Daniel Jamerson, 11th Combat Air Base Squadron commander. “We’re here to prepare our Airmen for the next fight, whether in new terrain, against new adversaries, or in different operational conditions than what we’ve faced in the past.”

The exercise focused on protection-based core task training, ensuring Airmen from diverse career fields are ready to operate as a cohesive unit in combat scenarios. This approach contrasts with past models where Airmen were individually deployed and often worked with unfamiliar teams upon arrival. The shift toward integrated team training reflects the Air Force’s vision for agile combat employment, a proactive and reactive operational scheme of maneuver to enable U.S. forces to increase survivability while generating combat power.

Airmen learned and demonstrated base defense drills, weapons tactics, visual signals, guardian angel and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear preparedness. Airmen also gained experience using counter-unmanned aerial systems, M4 carbines, M18 pistols and heavy weapons. 

The training culminated in a base defense scenario, led by U.S. Army 2-363rd Training Support Battalion Task Force Black Scorpion out of Fort Bliss, Texas, where Airmen implemented everything they learned and demonstrated their ability to defend a contingency location while under simulated attack.

“This training instills mission ready airmen and agile combat employment techniques to ensure that we are prepared for that next fight,” said Jamerson. “It’s great to be proficient in your primary Air Force Specialty Code, but you need to be prepared at any given day to be whatever we need to be for a combat air base squadron. It all comes down to that mission focused piece.”

Security forces Airmen led focused training for fellow 11th ATF members.

This training is setting us up to be the best technical experts in our AFSCs while training our peers who are deploying with us, said Airman 1st Class Caleb Roy, 355th Security Forces Squadron response force member. Roy explained the team was preparing one another for aircraft protection, access control, vehicle searches, weapons tactics, and day-to-day proficiencies so each Airman is interchangeable down range.

The 11th ATF’s efforts are part of a broader initiative to align Air Force force presentation models with those of sister services. The goal is to provide the Department of Defense with clearer insights into Air Force capabilities and readiness levels. The exercise also served as the first opportunity for the Airmen of the 11th Air Task Force, split between Davis-Monthan and Holloman, to train together.

“This is our first opportunity to [come together] to learn our strengths and weaknesses,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jerome Clark, 11th CABS senior enlisted leader. “It’s much better to work with the team all the way through a cycle. All of that ties into us training together, and then deploying together and having a successful mission.”

The exercise prepared Airmen for the way the Air Force will be operating going forward and familiarizes them with the Air Force Force Generation Cycle. It allows a more predictable deployment cycle and the ability to better plan operations without the disruptions of last-minute assignments. This structured approach not only enhances operational readiness but also builds confidence among the team.

“We’re deliberate, motivated, and excited,” said Clark. “This process is setting the foundation for a stronger, more agile Air Force.”

Jamerson echoes Clark’s feelings.

“The future is here,” said Jamerson. “The combat air base squadron is not just a concept, it’s the reality of how we’re going to fight and win the next conflict. We’re building something transformational, and this is just the beginning.”

By Airman 1st Class Jasmyne Bridgers-Matos, 355th Wing

DroneShield Releases 4Q24 Firmware Updates

November 26th, 2024

DroneShield (“DroneShield” or “the Company”) is pleased to announce it has released the latest update to its full range of Radio Frequency (RF) sensors including the RfPatrol, DroneSentry-X and RfOne models.

This update adds new drone models and communication protocols which can be identified by RFAI, including new types of home-made or non-commercial UxS. RF devices operate with greater stability and accuracy resulting in faster, more reliable drone detection.

New features include:

Faster Scanning with AI: Detection scans are now 17% faster, so users are notified of drones sooner and kept up to date in near-real-time. Settings can be configured to further optimise scan time based on mission requirements

New Drone Types: RFAI drone library has been expanded to recognise more signals which are used in custom and aftermarket drones

Growing API: Each device’s inbuilt gRPC API extends to cover greater control of positioning systems. Disruption protocols are faster and more regular, providing dependability when it matters most

Cybersecurity Resilience: Onboard firmware has seen a slew of security improvements in line with expectations from leading defence clients

AI & Software Improvements: Increased accuracy in direction-finding calculations, as well as future-proofing features for upcoming performance improvements in 2025

Angus Bean, DroneShield Chief Technology Officer, commented, “DroneShield always aims to provide our customers with industry-leading technology so they can maintain the highest degree of safety and security in the face of an evolving drone threat.”

For more information on product capabilities, visit www.droneshield.com.