XC3 Weaponlight

Streamlight Launches Multi-Fuel Sidewinder X Tactical Light

October 30th, 2024

Offers Improved Lumen Output, Battery Options and LED Color Choices

EAGLEVILLE, PA, October 30, 2024 – Streamlight®Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices, unveiled the Sidewinder® X, a high-output, multi-fuel military flashlight designed for a variety of task illumination needs, with four LED color options and intensity levels, up to 275 lumens, and a 185-degree articulating head. The new light is powered by either disposable alkaline or lithium batteries and is available in three different versions, including a user configurable (UC) model.

“This is the brightest light in the Sidewinder® family, while also providing battery versatility to suit individual needs or preferences,” said Streamlight President and Chief Executive Officer Ray Sharrah. “In addition to white light, users can select the infrared (IR) or green LEDs for compatibility with night vision equipment, the blue LED to check injured personnel for bleeding, or the red LED to maintain night vision when map reading or for cockpit navigation, all in one compact, waterproof package.”

The Sidewinder X is available in three different models: Military, programmed with white, red, blue and IR outputs; Aviation, programmed with white, green, blue and IR outputs; and a new User Configurable model that allows users to choose two colors from among red, green or blue LEDs in addition to white and IR LEDs programmed into the light.

The new light uses a white LED that offers 275 lumens of bright light on high and up to 150 hours of run time when using two AA alkaline batteries or 100 hours with a single 3-volt CR123A battery. Tactile battery polarity indicators make battery changes in the dark easier to accomplish. The light’s color and IR LEDs offer peak wavelengths of 950 nm (IR), 662 nm (Red), 530 nm (Green) and 470 nm (Blue). All light outputs provide four intensity levels and a strobe mode that operates at 100 percent intensity.

The Sidewinder X’s compound On-Off mode selector switch ergonomically separates the On-Off, dimming, strobe and LED color selection functions. A rubber dome actuator and four-position pull-to-turn locking rotary selector knob offer easy operation, even with gloves, and prevent accidental mode changes.

The light is made from high-impact, super tough nylon that offers exceptional durability and weather resistance, and its unbreakable polycarbonate lens is gasket-sealed and has a scratch-resistant coating.

The light comes with a durable belt/gear clip to securely fasten it to a helmet, belt or MOLLE, and it fits existing Sidewinder helmet mounts and adapters. A cord attachment hole in the body is capable of supporting up to 50 pounds.

Available in Coyote, the Sidewinder X features a one-year limited warranty and has an MSRP ranging from $132.75 to $176.90, depending on the model.

www.streamlight.com

Aimpoint Awarded New Contract for U.S. Marine Corps Fire Control Systems

October 30th, 2024

Manassas, Virginia – Aimpoint, the originator and worldwide leader in reflex sighting technology, has been awarded a new contract to supply AIMPOINT® FCS™ 14 Fire Control Systems to the U.S. Marine Corps. The system will be deployed as the primary Fire Control on the M3A1 Multi-Role Anti-Armor Anti-Personnel Weapons System (MAAWS) lightweight 84mm Carl-Gustaf produced by SAAB Dynamics.

The Aimpoint FCS 14 is the next generation of Fire Control Systems (FCS) from Aimpoint for use on multiple weapon platforms providing increased accuracy resulting in impacts on target.

The FCS 14 is a direct view, Dynamic Universal Reflex Sight, which utilizes an integrated laser range finder and ballistic computer to give the gunner an aiming point corrected for range, type of munition, terrain angle, and environmental conditions. In addition to the 84mm Carl-Gustaf, the system can also be utilized on other weapons including the AT4, 40mm high velocity grenade launchers (Mk19, Mk47, and GMG), .50 caliber heavy machine guns (M2), and the M134D Minigun. The FCS 14 provides an extremely high probability of first round hits on both stationary and moving targets during day and night. Along with the ballistically compensated 2 MOA green dot, the FCS 14 provides an updated user interface for quick and easy use in a combat environment.

The FCS 14 can be used in bright daylight/dawn/dusk conditions, or in combination with a helmet mounted AN/PVS-14, AN/PVS-31, or similar for night or dawn/dusk conditions. Additionally, there is also a DSA (Dual Sensor Afocal) module, which is a removable thermal and day camera unit. The DSA is powered and controlled by the FCS.

“We are proud that the AIMPOINT Fire Control System continues to be the selected optic for the MAAWS weapon platform.” said Thane Smith, President at Aimpoint Inc. The FCS 14 with integrated thermal and day sensors enhances the ability to detect, identify and destroy battlefield threats.

Compatible with a litany of crew-served weapons, the FCS 14 provides commanders with flexibility and lethality while reducing training requirements over legacy sighting systems. Aimpoint is dedicated to producing the highest quality, most reliable weapon optics to increase the lethality and survivability of our service members.”

Aimpoint is the leading manufacturer and innovator of red dot sighting technology. For more information on the AIMPOINT FCS 14 or other products, visit: aimpoint.us/fcs-series.

Stone Glacier – Sentinel Bino Harness

October 30th, 2024

Constructed of 3-Layer HydraShield waterproof fabric, the Sentinel Bino Harness offers room for your optics in central pocket as well as other items in the two elastic side pockets.

Accessories include:

Rangefinder Pocket
Ballistics Pocket
Side Pocket
Bottom Pocket
Bear Spray Holster

Offered in Granite and Coyote in regular and large sizes (to accommodate optics size).

www.stoneglacier.com/collections/sentinel-bino-system/products/sentinel-bino-harness

Army Begins Operational Deployment Pay

October 30th, 2024

WASHINGTON — Soldiers on approved operational deployments will soon receive $240 per month under the recently approved operational deployment pay program.

“This initiative underscores our unwavering commitment to honoring the daily sacrifices made by Soldiers and their families,” said Dr. Robert Steinrauf, Plans and Resources Director, Deputy Chief of Staff G-1.

The change, effective Oct. 1, 2024, authorizes E-1 to O-6 Soldiers to receive special duty pay in recognition of the greater than normal rigors of operational deployments.

“The Army is dedicated to ensuring that the sacrifices made by our Soldiers and their families are appropriately rewarded. Operational deployment pay represents a significant advancement in this effort,” said Dr. Agnes Gereben Schaefer, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs.

The regulation that governs the pay is Department of Defense Instruction 1340.26 (Assignment and Special Duty Pay). The pay is earned on a prorated basis.

A memorandum on the ODP can be viewed here.

ODP is not retroactive to before Oct. 1. Soldiers who were on an approved operational deployment on Oct. 1 will receive ODP for the remainder of their deployment.

Army Reserve and National Guard Soldiers are also eligible for ODP when they are participating in operational deployments.

Soldiers in combat zone tax exclusion status pay no tax on the ODP, but it is taxable for Soldiers serving outside such locations, Steinrauf said.

By Jonathan Austin, Army News Service

Saab Receives British Army Order to Support Live Training in Oman

October 29th, 2024

Saab has signed a £20M amendment to the Instrumented Live Training (ILT-D) contract signed in April 2024 with the UK Ministry of Defence. The amendment will deliver equipment and training support services for British Army training in Oman. Deliveries will take place 2024-2025.

The order includes Saab’s latest training and simulation equipment including a high-fidelity system which realistically and accurately replicates training engagements and ensures the activity is measurable and can be used to review and enhance training outcomes. The solution will operate as part of the MOD’s existing Tactical Engagement Simulation (TES) capability.

Saab will also provide training services to ensure optimal availability and performance at all stages. In addition to this, Saab will manage the Exercise Control (ExCon) environment including the captured data to support objective measurement of the training.

Andy Fraser, Group Managing Director, Saab UK said:
“We are pleased to continue our long-standing support to the British Army’s training systems in the UK as well as internationally. Interoperability is at the heart of Saab training and simulation solutions, and this contract will enable seamless cooperation with the Royal Army of Oman and other key international allies and partners.” 

Simon Pearce, Training and Simulation Systems Portfolio Leader for Defence Equipment & Support, the contracting authority said: 
“This significant contract amendment further solidifies the strong partnership between the British Army, the Royal Army of Oman, and Saab. It demonstrates our commitment to providing first-rate training for our forces, aligning with the evolving nature of warfare and the Collective Training Transformation Programme.”

The British Army’s system can be deployed globally, offering the flexibility to support training outside of Oman. Saab’s live simulation equipment integrates with other systems that use the applicable NATO standards.

Gilat Received Over $4 Million Order from the US Department of Defense

October 29th, 2024

Gilat to provide DKET 3421 terminals for easy-to-deploy transportable satcom network hubs

Petah Tikva, Israel, October 28, 2024 — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (Nasdaq: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions and services, announced today that the US Department of Defense awarded another contract for more than $4 million to Gilat’s  US-based subsidiary, DataPath, for DKET 3421 terminals, portable satcom hubs that provide the flexibility, capacity, connectivity, and control needed to ensure mission success anywhere in the world. The orders are expected to be delivered during the first half of 2025.

The DKET 3421 is an innovative solution to customers’ needs for a high-quality, reliable terminal for mission-critical communications. The field-proven DKET 3421 terminal supports multi-carrier operations with a scalable modem architecture (up to 32 modems). Weighing under 5000 lbs. with a reduced footprint, the DKET 3421 can be easily moved by a forklift. Deploying in less than three hours, the DKET 3421 provides a satellite network hub in the form of a single-skid with the flexibility to leverage available satellite assets.

“We’re excited to receive another order for our innovative DKET 3421 from our valued military customer. This order highlights the strong trust in our company and our proven ability to deliver mission-critical solutions that meet demanding requirements,” said Nicole Robinson, President of DataPath. “It also demonstrates once again our ability to provide reliable, highly portable, and high-performance network hubs to address our customers’ evolving needs.”

Team O’Neil’s Tactical Driving Tuesday – High Speed Backing

October 29th, 2024

This week’s discussion by instructor Wyatt is on high speed backing.

You can receive this training in person, by attending the Team O’Neill Tactical Driving Course at their facility in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This five-day course includes driving under NODS and is available to military and other government agencies as well as civilians.

Tactical Tuesday: Power Flex Performance Patrol Shirt

October 29th, 2024

The Power Flex Performance Patrol Shirt is a modern take on Hybrid Polos. This singular fabric shirt is constructed of a knit polyester allowing for natural airflow while eliminating chaffing from the seams to maximize performance and comfort while on the clock. The added convenience and class of this Performance Patrol Shirt allows for it to double both as an undervest shirt for exterior carriers and covers, and as a standalone polo for a more casual office or everyday wear look.

Experience the Future of Flex today, only from the Leaders in Performance Stretch Uniforms!