Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

SIG SAUER Moved for Mistrial, Will Now Appeal Verdict in Abrahams v. SIG SAUER

November 22nd, 2024

NEWINGTON, N.H., (November 20, 2024) – We strongly disagree with the verdict in this unintended discharge lawsuit, have already moved for a mistrial, and will be appealing the decision on multiple grounds.

The jury agreed that Plaintiff’s own negligence contributed to his accident. Plaintiff agreed the trigger on his P320 pistol was pulled fully rearward with at least 7 pounds of force. The P320 pistol is designed to discharge when the trigger is pulled and that is what happened in this case.

Plaintiff ignored numerous safety rules and warnings in handling his gun and had never trained with or fired his gun before the discharge occurred despite having purchased it more than a year and a half before his accident.

SIG SAUER believes that the jury’s ruling was unsupported by, and contrary to the evidence presented, and will be filing a motion for a judgment in its favor notwithstanding the verdict and, if denied, will be appealing the decision on multiple grounds.

The design of the SIG SAUER P320 model pistol is innovative and safe, with numerous related patents, including several relating to safety mechanisms. It is among the most tested, proven, and successful handguns in recent history, with versions being selected as the official sidearm of the U.S., Canadian, Australian, and Danish militaries, among many other military and law enforcement organizations worldwide. SIG SAUER is extremely proud of our long history of producing high-quality firearms and our unwavering dedication to safety.

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FirstSpear Friday Focus – FS Icon Hoodie

November 22nd, 2024

Discover the FS Icon Hoodie: Comfort, and Functionality in One

The FirstSpear FS Icon Hoodie, is where comfort meets our ‘Built for The X’ innovation ethos.

While this hoodie might not see combat, it’s designed with the same commitment to quality, materials, and performance that supports those in their most critical moments. Crafted from an exceptionally soft fabric blend, this mid-weight hoodie offers all-day comfort and durability. Featuring the iconic FirstSpear Speartip logo, it’s a versatile piece that transitions effortlessly from casual wear to outdoor adventures.

Your Everyday Essential, Built for Any Occasion

The FS Icon Hoodie is the perfect addition to your fall-weather arsenal. Layer it under a FS Wind Cheater for your next excursion or wear it solo for a relaxed look. Its clean design ensures you’re always ready for whatever your day holds.

Performance Meets Practicality

Built for those who value both comfort and functionality, the FS Icon Hoodie delivers a mid-weight fabric that’s warm enough for chilly mornings yet breathable enough for all-day wear. Whether you’re traveling, training, or simply relaxing, this hoodie supports your lifestyle with ease and versatility.

Specifications:

Sizing: True to Size

Blend Specs:

60% Cotton

40% Polyester

Aluminum Grommets for easy adjustment of hood, and cinching.

Shop the FS Icon Hoodie Today

Gear up with confidence. Order the FS Icon Hoodie directly from our online store and experience the premium comfort and durability that FirstSpear is known for. Whether you’re heading out or staying in, this comfort-essential ensures you’re always dressed for the occasion.

Choose FirstSpear—Where innovation meets the moments that matter.

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USMC Fielding of MK22 Program Reaches FOC a Full Year Ahead of Schedule

November 22nd, 2024

Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va. —

Marine Corps Systems Command recently reached Fully Operational Capability (FOC) for the MK 22 Mod 0 Advanced Sniper Rifle (ASR). This milestone marks a critical step forward in modernizing the Marine Corps’ sniper capabilities of Reconnaissance and Infantry units.

“Fully Operational Capability is achieved when all the Infantry and Reconnaissance units, as well as MOS-producing schools, have been fielded to and new equipment training is completed,” stated Maj Michael Billings, Weapons Team Lead, Marine Corps Systems Command.

The MK22 is more than just another rifle; it results from a partnership across the Department of Defense. Initially a Special Operations Command contract, the MK22 entered Marine Corps hands through the “Special Operations Forces (SOF) to service” transition process, allowing the U.S. Army to take responsibility for contracting actions.

“This collaboration accelerated the entire program, pushing us to FOC a full year ahead of schedule—a significant win for the Marine Corps and our warfighters,” explained Billings.

The rifle offers caliber conversion options, allowing Marines to tailor their loadout to missions. With barrels chambered in 7.62mm, .300 Norma Magnum, and .338 Norma Magnum, Marines can engage targets more precisely and at greater ranges.

“The M317 Precision Day Optic (PDO) paired with the MKk22 is a game changer. The M317 PDO is a 7-35 Variable Powered Optic, a huge leap in capability over our previous sniper systems like the M40 and MK13,” explained Brian Nelson, MK22 project officer, Marine Corps Systems Command.

Each rifle kit has three barrels, a hard and soft carrying case, a comprehensive cleaning and tool kit, a sound suppressor, the M317 PDO, and its accompanying scope mount. Reconnaissance and Infantry units also receive a .300 Winchester Magnum barrel, a scout sniper tripod kit, a laser filter unit, and an anti-reflection device.

“Marines like the ability to conduct caliber conversions at their level and the fact that they only have one rifle instead of the two it replaced,” emphasized Kevin Marion, a Logistics Management Specialist with Marine Corps Systems Command. “This shift improves operational efficiency, reduces the logistical burden on units, and lightens the individual Marine’s load.”

One of the MK22’s most significant benefits is its sustainability. Maintenance times are reduced, and repairs can now be conducted at the organizational level—unlike the old sniper rifles, which required more time-consuming evacuation to an intermediate level for repairs. Should a barrel fail, the MK22 can still be employed in a different caliber, maintaining the unit’s operational readiness.

“[Replacing a barrel] was impossible with previous systems, where a condemned barrel would render the weapon unusable, directly affecting mission readiness,” said Nelson. “Now, the MK22 ensures that even if a barrel fails, Marines are still mission ready.”

With the MK22’s enhanced capabilities, Marines are more lethal, more versatile, and better equipped to handle the challenges of modern warfare and equipped for the future fight.

By: Morgan Blackstock, Office of Public Affairs and Communications, Marine Corps Systems Command

Posted in Guest Post, MARCORSYSCOM, USMC, weapons | 3 Comments »

GA-ASI Completes Final Qualification Test for HFE 2.0 Engine

November 21st, 2024

200-HP Heavy Fuel Engine Will Be Used for Gray Eagle 25M

SAN DIEGO – 19 November 2024 – On Nov. 13, 2024, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), completed its final qualification test for its new 200-horsepower heavy fuel engine at its El Mirage, California, flight facility. The Heavy Fuel Engine (HFE) 2.0 is a highly reliable low-maintenance engine with a 40 percent increase in service life providing longer maintenance-free operational periods. The engine will provide the horsepower and electrical power required to meet the demanding performance needs of the new Gray Eagle 25M for Multi-Domain Operations (MDO).

The three-week qualification test of the HFE 2.0 engine is aligned with the Federal Aviation Administration’s endurance test requirements (FAA 14 CFR 33.49) as the FAA’s primary performance standard for engines to be used in commercial aviation. Over the last 18 months, HFE 2.0 excelled in strenuous durability testing that included 2,450 full power cycles simulating high stress conditions during three extensive test profiles of 200, 400, and 651 hours. Additionally, the engine completed 50 hours of flight testing across the flight envelope.

“This test is the culmination of the extensive durability and flight test program for the HFE 2.0 engine,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “It’s been great to see the outstanding test results that have validated the design and development of the HFE 2.0 engine we have worked on so passionately for the past seven years and to bring this world-class engine to the Gray Eagle fleet.”

GA-ASI and its General Atomics Europe affiliate partnered with global leaders in high-performance engines — supported by propulsion technology innovator Cosworth — to develop an engine on the company’s internally funded research and development program. GA-ASI also brought in General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems to design and build the engine’s dual brushless generator, which will dramatically reduce field maintenance and is designed to be a drop-in replacement for the existing generator. The enhanced generator will deliver over 50 percent more electrical power to support newly available payloads for the MDO mission.

After completion of the FAA engine endurance test, next steps call for the U.S. Army certification process to allow authorization of the HFE 2.0 for use on the existing fleet of GA-ASI’s Gray Eagle Extended Range (GE ER) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) as a replacement for the 180-horsepower engine that is reaching its end of life. HFE 2.0 is also the cornerstone of the modernized Gray Eagle 25M (GE 25M) UAS currently being produced under a U.S. Army-funded program to support future MDO UAS missions.

Posted in Aviation, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI Completes Final Qualification Test for HFE 2.0 Engine

Dimension-Polyant Brings Decades of Textile Innovation to the Tactical Frontier

November 21st, 2024

Trust only X-Pac® – developed to elevate your mission and redefine what’s possibleFor decades, Dimension-Polyant, the global leader in high-performance sailcloth manufacturing, has set the gold standard in advanced textiles.

Its journey began over 50 years ago with a team of passionate sailors and textile pioneers driven by a shared mission: to create materials that defied convention and elevated performance. Today, that same spirit of innovation propels the company forward, solidifying its position as a leader in cutting-edge textile solutions.

Building on this legacy, Dimension-Polyant created the X-Pac® brand of innovative pack fabrics designed with the same precision and performance required for racing sails. Engineered to endure extreme environments, X-Pac® fabrics have conquered Everest, braved the Arctic, and endured millions of miles of rugged exploration. With an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, remarkable durability, and 100% waterproof technology, these fabrics deliver unparalleled reliability, no matter the challenge.

The heritage of innovation meets the future of tactical performance

Upon visiting the SHOT show four years ago, the Dimension-Polyant team was struck by the sheer number of soft goods suppliers and brands catering to enthusiasts, first responders, and professional military operators.

“It was eye-opening to see a market that demands high-performance, quality gear—but much of the equipment was made from commodity-grade, unsophisticated materials, said Taylor North, Dimension-Polyant Global Head of Technical Fabrics. “This revealed a clear opportunity for X-Pac® to make a meaningful impact, Our technology is a perfect fit for the tactical market, offering solutions that add value and address the unique challenges these brands face.”

Dimension-Polyant has now brought its expertise from sea to summit to the tactical market. X-Pac® Tactical fabrics are purpose-built to meet the intense demands of tactical operations, offering operators the lightweight durability, strength, and versatility needed to succeed in mission-critical scenarios.

X-Pac® Tactical range of rugged materials are made in Putnam CT, USA, many of which are Berry Compliant showcasing Dimension-Polyant’s commitment to US-based sourcing and production. They include:

• MANTA FABRICS: A revolutionary advancement in tactical textiles. Engineered with a structural core, Manta delivers exceptional strength, stability, and laser-cut precision. Ideal for demanding applications like structural packs, plate carriers, and MOLLE panels. Available in two innovative constructions: woven Dyneema core and Tyra Technology® spread filament core, in Multicam and black.

• WX21 – USA-sourced 200d nylon face fabric with an added polyester wrap insert for enhanced low-stretch and rip-stop properties. Ideal for lightweight packs, gear pouches, rucksacks, and every day carry applications. Available in black.

• X33 MULTICAM – Tightly woven 330d traditional Multicam® Nylon face-fabric with black post-consumer recycled polyester X-PLY® reinforcement and shiny polyester film backing for a highly abrasion-resistant, tear-resistant, waterproof material.

• X50 TACTICAL – The workhorse of the X-Pac® Tactical line-up. X50 Tactical utilizes a rugged 500d CORDURA® face fabric with a 400d aramid X-PLY® which is lighter weight, stronger, than a traditional polyester X-PLY® reinforcement. The result is a highly abrasion-resistant, tear-resistant, waterproof material. Available in black, stealth grey, coyote brown, ranger green, khaki, and woodland camouflage.

• X50 MULTICAM – Rugged X50 features a 500d CORDURA® face fabric in a traditional Multicam® pattern for a highly abrasion-resistant, tear-resistant, waterproof material. Available in Multicam Black, Multicam Alpine, and Multicam Tropic.

Dimension-Polyant will be exhibiting at SHOT Week Supplier Showcase in Las Vegas, January 21-22, 2025, to present its new X-Pac® Tactical collection. For more information on X-Pac® Tactical – the ultimate tactical pack fabric – please visit: www.x-pactactical.com

Posted in Materials, Multicam, Press Release | No Comments »

Prometheus Design Werx – SPD CAS OTF v2

November 21st, 2024

Special Projects Division CA.lifornia S.pecial O.ut t.he F.ront Auto Knife in MagnaCut

PDW releases their v2 CA.lifornia S.pecialO.ut t.he F.ront automatic knife featuring MagnaCut steel, under their sub-label of Special Projects Division. Compact and legal to carry in the state of California, this knife is precision made from aerospace grade T6061 AL, 6AL4V titanium, Crucible MagnaCut, and Hyperglow.

Details make the design. We produce some of the only OTFs on the market with a milled contoured handle, which requires 3x longer on the CNC to achieve. We designed this OTF handle where the machine screws are in blind holes for an unclutteredand clean presentation side. A titanium pocket clip, and a titanium slider with Hyperglow dot round out the finer details.

The SPD Edition CAS OTF v2 will be available with a 2-tone finished blade and dark gray, OD green, and orange or purple anodized or DLC handles.

PDW Founder and Chief Designer PDW states:

“The CA.lifornia S.pecial OTF exemplifies my design and production ethos. Its functional design strength comes from its simplicity. There are no racing stripes, randomly ground contours, garish decorative elements, superfluous swooshes and silly lines. Despites its diminutive ‘California Special” size, this compact out the front knife is very versatile and highly usable for your daily cutting chores. From opening boxes, stubborn plastic packages, to envelopes, and much more, this knife will easily tackle the job. The action is crisp and satisfying to fire and close. I chose the highest level of materials and held steadfast to our stringent attention to details and highest quality of make. For those who adhere to the philosophy of form follows function, find beauty in finely made edged tools, and demand precision made mechanical objects, the CAS OTF is made for you.”

The SPD CAS OTF v2 is available now for $195.00 via their website, prometheusdesignwerx.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Knives, Press Release | No Comments »

Red Cat Announces Production Selection for U.S. Army Short Range Reconnaissance Program

November 21st, 2024

Red Cat’s next generation Teal system will be the Army’s Program of Record SRR sUAS, concluding the rigorous, multi-tranche competitive process

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Nov. 19, 2024 — Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat”), a leading American drone technology company, has been selected as the winner of the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program of Record. The production selection was made after a test and evaluation process of Teal’s next generation sUAS, completed by the Army Project Management Office for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, Army Maneuver Battle Lab, Army Test and Evaluation Command, and Army Operational Test Center.

“This is a powerful moment in time, coming after five years of blood, sweat, and tears put into SRR by our incredible team. The long-awaited production selection marks a new era for our company and the future of American drones,” said George Matus, founder of Teal and CTO of Red Cat. “We were selected based on soldier feedback, technical performance, volume manufacturability, and system cost. Our top priority now is to start ramping production of the next generation system, recently announced as the Black Widow and WEB, and give warfighters the tools they need to be successful on the modern battlefield.”

“Warfare has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past two years, with a significant shift towards drone technology, exemplified by the SRR Black Widow. It is an honor to support the U.S. Army by delivering the Black Widow to our warfighters. We believe this advanced technology will enable the Army to shape the battlefield, save soldiers’ lives, and serve as a powerful tool in their arsenal,” said Jeff Thompson, CEO of Red Cat. “This long-term contract will give us the capability to continue to improve the Black Widow, scale production and improve margins.”

“Both the operational and tactical levels of war and maneuver of combat elements have evolved significantly over the past couple of years,” said Paul Edward Funk II, retired Four-Star Army General and Red Cat board member. “Operational success today depends on the ability to seamlessly move data across the battlefield. From a tactical perspective, small unmanned aerial systems that are rucksack portable are playing a vital role in Intelligence Surveillance & Reconnaissance, as well as surgical strike capabilities based on the real-time needs of the warfighter.”

The SRR contract selection builds on significant momentum for Red Cat, with the acquisition of FlightWave Aerospace, the announcement of the ARACHNID™ family of systems, and the creation of the Red Cat Futures Initiative. The company is focused on ramping production of Teal’s next generation system to meet the Army’s currently stated acquisition objective for 5,880 systems, which is subject to change over the 5 year period of performance. Red Cat is also preparing to meet increased demand across the rest of the U.S. DoD, federal government, and allied countries, to support operators and warfighters globally.

For more information about Red Cat and the U.S. Army’s Short-Range Reconnaissance Program of Record, please visit www.redcat.red.

Posted in Army, Contracts, Press Release, UAS | 2 Comments »

Radical Defense BAD-21 Suppressor

November 21st, 2024

After successfully suppressing the M2A1 and M2A2 .50cal Machine Guns, RD (Radical Defense) began pursuing the next evolution of the original 50 FVS suppressor. The design intent was a modular, more streamlined, lower weight, higher flow suppressor with a reduced form factor. What followed was the 50 GPS (General Purpose Suppressor) Program.

50 GPS utilizes one suppressor with multiple mounting options via taper lock mount muzzle devices. Each muzzle device is designed with specific internal geometries and thread pitches per use on each intended weaponsystem while using the same, standard external geometries; for example,making the same suppressor useable on a Barrett M107, a McMillan TAC-50, and an M2A1.

Using a 50 GPS muzzle device designed to thread into a barrel shroud, RD mounted and performed limited function testing of 50 GPS on an M3Pwith the eventual goal of adapting 50 GPS for use on the GAU-21.Utilizing customer feedback, in an effort to simplify the system, RDmoved away from a specialized muzzle device and modular suppressor design. Instead, RD developed the BAD-21 specifically for use on theGAU-21, with a primary focus of reducing Blast Overpressure exposure to the warfighter, air frames, and sensitive electronics.

In an effort to design the most rugged, durable machine gun suppressors possible, RD additively manufactures using Haynes 282. The (Blast Attenuation Device) BAD-21 is a monolithic design, without welds or threaded interfaces, which eliminates potential failure points. Additionally, Haynes 282 exhibits exceptional abrasion and wear resistance, and maintains high levels of strength at extreme temperatures.

The BAD-21 threads directly to the Barrel Jacket replacing the flash hider, and is then secured in place using the factory locking screws. Secondary lock can be achieved with the use of safety wire.

The intent with the BAD-21 is to allow the barrel to move freely and reciprocate as normal, while reducing blast overpressure and sound pressure wave experienced by the gunner, pilots, and/or any crewman operating around the weapon, as well as protect sensitive electronics within the blast radius of the muzzle.

Employing RD’s Breathable Technology, the objective with BAD-21 is to significantly reduce any effects of a suppressor on the kinematics of the host weapon, while also venting high pressure gasses forward of the weapon and not back to the operator. In this particular use case, considering the GAU-21’s high cyclic rate, the goal is to not increase the rate of fire of the weapon, cause reliability concerns, decrease MRBS, or increase long term wear and tear on the weapon, its parts or mounts.

www.RDUSA.com

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Suppressors | No Comments »