At AUSA we got to take a look at the new MK 777 lightweight RPG launcher from Airtronic.
Airtronic USA – MK 777 Lightweight Rocket Launcher
October 21st, 2014
JTAC Simulator – Close Air Solutions
October 21st, 2014UK-based Close Air Solutions has been experimenting with the Oculus Rift Virtual Reality device for use in JTAC training. In this video, consultant Daniel Meeks wanted to try out the use of Head Mounted Displays for role players in Close Air Support scenarios. They used the Oculus Rift with MetaVR’s VRSG (Virtual Reality Scene Generator) for the aircrews but it can be used by the JTAC as well. As Oculus Rift decreases latency, it’s going to become a great tool for training and simulation.
Close Air Solutions has a developmental simulator called iCASS (Immersive Close Air Support Simulator). It’s a lower cost solution for countries that may want something greater than a desktop simulator and less than the full Advanced Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) Training System (AJTS) dome simulator used here in the US. The software in the simulator is almost identical, however it uses a MACE/VRSG based sim. This is the software used by all the STSs, JTACQC, and soon to be all active duty ASOS’s. The ANG, as usual, is using something a little different, AAJTS.
Any JTAC will tell you, nothing beats doing the real thing like going to the range and controlling live aircraft, but the reality is that will happen less and less over the next few years for just about everyone around the world. Close Air Solutions is working on solutions that will keep a JTAC tuned up so he will get the most out of any actual range time.
The simulator is only going to get better over the next coming years as Virtual Reality consumer products come online making training very affordable and dependable. The software is continually improving as well. Meeks has suggested that omnidirectional treadmills and motion tracking will eventually be incorporated leaving a student sweaty and tired after a session in the dome, yet hopefully, smarter.
Until we get there, this video from Exercise Ample Strike 2014 in the Czech Republic shows you what is possible in the now with iCASS.
Massif Offers PCU Level 7
October 21st, 2014Designed for use down to -60 Deg F, the Level 7 garments from Massif are components of the latest update of the USSOCOM issued Protective Combat Uniform, Block 2. Yes, this is the actual garment issued to SOF. Although Massif is well known for their FR garments, the Level 7 Jacket and Pants are non-FR.
Massif did a great job redesigning the garments which retain the same overall functionality of their earlier incarnations with a few new enhancements. They’ve significantly reduced the weight from earlier incarnations of PCU Level 7 knocking about 25 ounces off of the total weight of the Jacket, Vest and Pants (size Medium) in this version.
The big story here is the fabric selection for this ensemble. The face fabric is 2.1oz Nextec Peak 40D Ripstop which is not only lightweight and tear resistant but the fabric is encapsulated in Silicone so it sheds and won’t absorb water. The liner too is a lightweight 40D ripstop fabric but is 1.5oz Brookwood Ecology which you may remember from the Level 4 windshirt. It has a very soft hand and is comfortable against wind and sun chapped skin. For insulation, Massif chose 3.6oz Climashield Apex for its CLO factor and compressibility. Zippers are color matched and incorporate zipper garages.
The Jacket has an ergonomically shaped, helmet-compatible smart hood for improved peripheral vision. It has a rear adjustment cord with barrel lock to keep it where you want it.
Additionally, there are two internal mesh pockets for water bottles or other items you need to keep warm as well as a zippered chest pocket accessible from the outside of the jacket.
Finally, there are two large, hand warmer pockets accessible via zippers on each side of the jacket.
The Pants have full side zips for ventilation, and easy donning and doffing. Additionally, there is reinforced fabric along the knee for increased durability. They’ve also retained the elasticized waist to accommodate varying thicknesses of underlayers.
Overall, this new design has reduced garment weight, and improved functionality and comfort. Feedback from the field has been very positive.This a great opportunity for individuals as well as organizations that are not part of the SPEAR program to incorporate Level 7 into their gear. It’s important to note that Massif offers GSA and contract pricing for approved customers. Additionally, they have been very good in the past at working with individual military and LE. Available in MultiCam, sizes Small – XXLarge in Regular and Long lengths.
SIG SAUER Gives Us A Look At Their Modular Handgun System Candidate
October 21st, 2014
At AUSA, SIG SAUER‘s Kevin Brittingham walked us through their candidate for the Army’s Modular Handgun System program which may replace the M9 Pistol issued since the mid-80s and based on the Beretta 92F.
Although based on the commercially available P320 modular pistol, SIG made a few changes to be in compliance with the Army’s requirement.
-Tan Color
-Ambi Thumb Safety
-Lower Profile Ambi Slide Release
-Loaded Chamber Indicator
-Trigger Boot
-Firing Pin Assembly
Although SIG is very optimistic about their chances, they also look at programs like this as an opportunity to improve their firearms. Some of these changes may we find their way into the P320 and other SIG firearms.
Pipe Hitters Union – 10-Year Anniversary Gun Giveaway
October 21st, 2014
In celebration of their 10-Year Anniversary, Pipe Hitters Union is having a giveaway. One lucky winner will receive a variety of prizes, including apparel, load carrying gear, and a knife, from the following companies:
– Pipe Hitters Union
– Grey Ghost Gear
– Tactical Tailor
– MOTUS
Additionally, the prize pack includes a Bretheren Armament BAP 9mm pistol, styled with custom PHU cerakoting and engraving.
For more details, and to enter, visit www.pipehittersunion.com/phu-10-year-anniversary-gun-giveaway
EOTech Is Discontinuing The Integrated Fore-End Lights (IFL) Product Line
October 21st, 2014EOTech has announced to all distributors that they are discontinuing the Integrated Fore-End Lights (IFL) product line, citing an inconsistent supply of materials from their vendors. The full release can be read below:
October 20, 2014
Dear EOTech Distributors:
This letter is to inform your company that EOTech is discontinuing the distribution of its line of Integrated Fore-End Lights (IFL). The discontinuation will include all models and sku’s, for both the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 firearms. Effective immediately, all existing purchase orders in EOTech’s system will unfortunately be canceled. We are giving notice of these product changes in order for your company to adjust its product purchasing records and close any orders that are pending.
We request that you carefully review these changes and notify your buyers so no future orders are placed. Additionally, effective immediately, MAP restrictions will be lifted to assist you in the movement of current inventory.
Warranty and customer service inquiries regarding the product line will continue unchanged per the L-3 Warrior Systems/EOTech contact information provided in the product literature.
If you have questions and would like to discuss the changes noted above or if you need information about adding new products to your program, please contact your EOTech sales representative directly and they will provide additional information and options.
The decision to exit this business was due to the inconsistent supply of materials from our vendors. We appreciate your understanding and assistance in helping us, help you, minimize the impact of this product discontinuation on your company. We would also like to thank you for your continued support and success of the EOTech product line.
Limitless Gear – OPFOR Magazine Carrier
October 21st, 2014
Limitless Gear has announced that the OPFOR 5.56 AR-15 Magazine Carrier is currently in production and is available to order. The OPFOR is a high strength polymer magazine carrier system which features two exclusive technologies:
Rapidly Scalable Equipment Ensemble (RSEE \R-C\), which is a new MOLLE/PALS compatible attachment system. RSEE enables users to quickly and effortlessly adjust or transfer their loadout to adjust to changing mission requirements.
Positive Magazine Retention (PMR), which is a magazine retention technology that automatically locks magazines in place. To remove a magazine all the user has to do is apply a natural twist and pull. PMR is designed to eliminate the need for flaps or bungee cords which can obstruct access to magazines.
OPFOR is made in the USA. Available in Coyote Brown.
Combat Boots, They’re Made For Combat
October 20th, 2014
From our friends at Do You Even Airborne Bro?
