Troop Performance

DroneShield Reaffirms Support for ADF Drone Racing Team at Avalon Australian International Airshow 2025

March 24th, 2025

DroneShield, a global leader in counter-drone solutions, proudly reaffirms its support for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Drone Racing Team at the upcoming Avalon Australian International Airshow 2025. This continued collaboration further strengthens the partnership between DroneShield and Australia’s foremost military drone operators, fostering innovation in both drone and counter-drone technologies.

Building on the successful engagement with the ADF Drone Racing Association, DroneShield’s sponsorship at Avalon 2025 will go beyond traditional support, focusing on hands-on collaboration, including DroneShield drone pilot participation in the ADF Drone Racing Team’s activities at Avalon Airshow, further enhancing cross-domain expertise and fostering innovation in real-time drone engagements.

“The ADF Drone Racing Team represents the pinnacle of high-performance drone operations, and we are excited to continue our support at Avalon 2025,” said Oleg Vornik, CEO and Managing Director of DroneShield.

“This partnership is more than just sponsorship; it’s about shaping the future of drone warfare by merging expertise from both offensive and defensive drone technologies.”

Image: ADF Drone Racing Team with DroneShield team. Source: Australian Army Drone Racing Team (Facebook)

Wing Commander Keirin Joyce, President of the ADF Drone Racing Association, welcomed the continued collaboration.

“The partnership between the ADF Drone Racing Team and DroneShield is invaluable in pushing the boundaries of what drones can do – both in competition and on the battlefield. By testing cutting-edge counter-drone technologies against some of the most skilled drone operators in Defence, we create a unique development loop that strengthens Australia’s overall defence capabilities.”

The Avalon Australian International Airshow remains a premier event for showcasing advancements in aviation, defence, and aerospace technologies. This public event also plays a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of STEM enthusiasts, offering an opportunity to witness cutting-edge technology in action. DroneShield looks forward to engaging with industry partners, Defence stakeholders, and drone technology enthusiasts to demonstrate the latest developments in counter-drone capabilities.

TacJobs – AXIL Live Events Associate

March 24th, 2025

About the Role:

We’re looking for individuals to join our team that are driven, personable and thrive in environments where they can be present at events and conduct product demonstrations that lead to sales and booking orders with customers. As a Live Events Associate, you’ll be supporting the Live Events team for AXIL, at trade shows and live events that include motorsports, outdoor and firearm industry, athletic sporting events, medical and tech industry and more! While on the event site you will be demonstrating our products and driving sales through product knowledge and authenticity while listening to the customer and delivering solutions to their needs based on the features our products provide. This role may include 40-50% travel, including weekends. We need a team of individuals that thrive in a variety of industries, environments and can be professionally self-disciplined on the road.

Expectations:

• Professionally represent AXIL at events: This includes set-up of booths, merchandising of the booth display products, inventory management of products for sale on site, engage with attendees, process sales with provided tools, and demonstrate our products in use.

• Drive sales: Meet and exceed sales targets at each event by facilitating the needs of the customer.

• Build relationships: Network with attendees, dealers, and account managers, while gathering potential clients and manage current account relationships while on show site.

• Provide excellent customer service: Answer questions, address concerns, and ensure a positive customer experience.

• Travel: Understand that there may be travel 40-50% of the time, including weekends, to various event locations across the country.

Qualifications:

• Proven Sales Experience: Minimum of 2 years of successful sales experience in a relevant field (e.g., retail, direct sales, B2B).

• Event Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience in an event-related role, such as event coordination, trade show participation, or similar.

• High School Diploma or Equivalent

• Exceptional Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to clearly and concisely convey information to diverse audiences.

• Results-Oriented Mindset: Highly motivated and driven to achieve ambitious sales goals.

• Team Player: Ability to effectively collaborate with other team members and contribute to the overall success of the team.

• Adaptability and Resilience: Ability to thrive in a demanding and sometimes unpredictable environment while maintaining a professional demeanor.

• Strong Work Ethic: Possess a strong work ethic, self-discipline, and the ability to work independently.

Benefits:

• Product Training: Full AXIL submersion into our products features and benefits, how to fit customers for appropriate product selections, and sales etiquette.

• Commission-Based Income: Earn substantial income based on your sales performance.

• Travel Opportunities: Experience a variety of exciting events and destinations across the country.

• Growth Potential: High-performing individuals may have the opportunity to advance within the company.

• Competitive Compensation: Includes a competitive day rate that will range based on the tier system of shows, with per diem.

• Competitive Commission Rate: Commission of percentage of sales generated from events.

• Comprehensive Travel and Expense Reimbursement: Reimbursement for travel, lodging, transportation, and business-related expenses.

• Company Branding: Branded apparel and demo kit of products.

Important Notes:

• This is a commission-based role with no base salary.

• Extensive travel is required, including potential weekend work

Send all inquiries to: careers@goaxil.com

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. 

Register here.

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.

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.

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

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.

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