With drones a major aspect of the war in Ukraine (and elsewhere) it’s best to become as familiarized with the infernal devices as possible. To wit, I present “Deadly UAS Homing Threats of the Future” presented at the recent Future Forces Conference in Virginia Beach.
For those interested, POC data is on the poster.
FORT LIBERTY, NC – The Global Special Operations Foundation (GSOF) will host the annual Modern Warfare Week 19-22 November at Fayetteville area venues jointly sponsored by the U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC).
Modern Warfare Week (MWW) convenes the SOF community here to both educate and connect through discussions about the future of warfare from a SOF perspective.
“Modern Warfare Week brings the conversation to a U.S. strongpoint here in Fayetteville as nations restack to balance conventional and special operations capability to meet current and future threats”, said Stu Bradin, President and CEO of the Global SOF Foundation.
Events of Modern Warfare Week Include:
A two-day symposium at the Iron Mike Conference Center on Ft. Liberty, NC. The agenda includes keynote speeches from Gen. James E. Rainey Commanding General U.S. Army Futures Command; Lt. Gen. Jonathan Braga, Commanding General, U.S. Army Special Operations Command; Brig. Gen. Kirk Brinker, Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army Special Operations Command; Command Sgt. Maj. David Waldo, 1st Special Forces Command; Dr. Lisa Costa, Senior National Security Executive; Dr. Lyla Kohistany and Mr. Ben Borger. Topics will include Advances in Irregular Warfare (IW), updates on the Russian War in Ukraine, Partnered Operations in Unconventional Warfare, the Role of Women and Gender in IW, and Talent Management.
A sold-out exhibition hall at the Iron Mike Conference Center with more than 90 cutting-edge industry exhibitors, 8 non-profit organizations, outdoor static displays, and networking opportunities.
An Interactive Demo Day at The Range Complex in Autryville, NC (22 NOV) with state-of-the-art weaponry and tactical gear in use. Attendees will explore advancements that will revolutionize the way that SOF engages in modern warfare.
R 301506Z OCT 24
MARADMIN 524/24
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC MRA MM//
SUBJ/SOLICITATION FOR QUALIFIED MARINES TO LATERAL MOVE (LATMOVE) INTO THE RECONNAISSANCE PRIMARY MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY (PMOS) 0321//
REF/A/MSIGD: DOC/CMC/TECOM/20240207//
REF/B/MSIGD: DOC/CMC/RECONNAISSANCE TRAINING COMMAND SCREENING
CHECKLIST VER 4/20191203//
REF/C/MSIGD: MSG/CMC/MPP/092051ZOCT24//
NARR/REF (A) IS NAVMC 1200.1K, MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES MANUAL. REF (B) IS THE RECONNAISSANCE TRAINING & ASSESSMENT PROGRAM (RTAP) AND BASIC RECONNAISSANCE COURSE (BRC) COMMAND SCREENING CHECKLIST. REF (C) IS MARADMIN 483/24, FISCAL YEAR 2025 SELECTIVE
RETENTION BONUS PROGRAM AND FISCAL YEAR 2025 BROKEN SERVICE SELECTIVE RETENTION BONUS PROGRAM.//
POC/S.UZIEL/LTCOL/POF RECONNAISSANCE OCCUPATIONAL FIELD MANAGER/TEL: 703-692-4494/STEVEN.UZIEL@USMC.MIL//
POC/M. EATON/MGYSGT/POF RECONNAISSANCE MOS SPECIALIST/TEL: 703-692-4305/MICKEY.EATON@USMC.MIL//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1. Purpose. This MARADMIN solicits qualified Marines to apply for LATMOVE into the 0321 PMOS during Fiscal Year 2025. Manpower and Reserve Affairs (M&RA) has categorized the 0321 PMOS as a critical career force skill shortage. The demand for qualified Marines to LATMOVE to this PMOS will remain high for the foreseeable future.
2. Background. Marine Reconnaissance Battalions and Force Reconnaissance Companies are specialized units trained to conduct multi-domain reconnaissance, surveillance, and specialized limited scale raids in support of the Ground Combat Element, Marine Air Ground Task Force, or Joint Task Force. They are responsible for gathering and reporting information about the enemy, terrain, and
weather conditions in contested maritime environments as part of an integrated naval campaign.
2.a. Reconnaissance Marines represent the epitome of physical fitness and mental aptitude and are part of a highly trained force that is critical to the Marine Corps’ mission against
global threats. They must possess a range of skills unique to reconnaissance formations and thrive in politically sensitive or geographically denied operational environments. They must have strong communication skills and be able to operate independently or as part of a small team under austere circumstances.
2.b. Reconnaissance Marines undergo extensive training in amphibious reconnaissance, combat diving, parachuting, sensor operation, and advanced combat marksmanship. They may also receive qualifications as snipers, Army Rangers, explosive breachers, additional Joint Terminal Attack Controllers, and advanced Survival,
Evasion, Resistance, and Escape specialists.
2.c. Reconnaissance Marines serve in both the Active and Reserve Components (RC) and may be assigned to a variety of units across the Fleet Marine Force, Supporting Establishment, and external Special Missions Units.
2.d. Reconnaissance LATMOVE applicants must meet the following
criteria:
2.d.1. Must be a U.S. citizen.
2.d.2. Must be a volunteer.
2.d.3. No derogatory page 11 entries within the last 12 months.
2.d.4. No NJPs within the last 12 months and with no more than one NJP during the current contract.
2.d.5. No courts martial convictions.
2.d.6. Security requirement: must have minimum interim secret security clearance based on National Agency Check, Law Enforcement
and Credit Check.
2.d.7. Must possess a minimum General Technical score of 105 or a minimum Clerical score of 105.
2.d.8. Marines must possess a Water Survival-Intermediate, water survival qualification to enter RTAP.
2.d.9. Must possess a Water Survival-Advanced, water survival qualification to enter BRC.
2.d.10. Must obtain a passing score in all following land and aquatic events during RTAP:
2.d.10.a. Max set pullups–min 8/target reps 15+ 2:00 minute rest.
2.d.10.b. Max set crunches–min 75/target reps 85+ 2:00 minute rest.
2.d.10.c. Max set pushups–min 42/target reps 60+ 10:00 minute rest.
2.d.10.d. 3-mile run–min 22:30/target 19:30-10:00 minute rest.
2.d.10.e. Obstacle course x2–min 8:00.
2.d.10.f. 500-meter swim-15 minutes (side or breaststroke, continuous swim).
2.d.10.g. 25-meter underwater swim.
2.d.10.h. Rifle retrieval.
2.d.10.i. 25-meter rifle tow.
2.d.11. Marines must attain passing scores in all elements of the Reconnaissance Physical Assessment Test and Reconnaissance Aquatic
Competency Test during separate training evolutions and will be required to attain passing scores to graduate BRC.
2.d.12. Must be medically qualified to perform jump and combatant dive operations. LATMOVE enlisted Marines must have completed a
Naval Special Warfare/Special Operations (NSW/SO) physical prior to reporting to BRC. This includes a report of medical history (DD form 2807-1) and a report of requested MOS change
(DD form 2808). The completed NSW/SO physical must be reviewed and countersigned by an Undersea Medical Officer.
2.e. Reconnaissance Marines serve a critical role within the RC.
To be eligible for the 0321 PMOS in the RC, Marines must meet the following criteria:
2.e.1. Selected Marine Corps Reserve (SMCR). Marines must affiliate with or be a current member of a SMCR Unit.
2.e.2. Individual Mobilization Augmentee. Marines must be affiliated with a SMCR unit.
2.e.3. Individual Ready Reserve. Marines must be discharged from the Active Component or Selected Reserve under honorable conditions.
2.e.4. Direct Affiliation Program (DAP). Active Component or Active Reserve Marines can apply for LATMOVE within the RC via the DAP.
They must be released under honorable conditions.
2.e.5. RC Marines must sign a Statement of Understanding accepting the requirements and conduct of Permanent Change of Station (PCS)
orders to attend reconnaissance entry level training.
2.e.6. Marines approved for LATMOVE into the 0321 PMOS may rate a Selective Retention Bonus (SRB). For example, per reference (c), a
qualified Zone A Sergeant who agrees to reenlist in conjunction with a lateral move will qualify for both the $40,000 72-month lateral move kicker and the $57,000 PMOS bonus, totaling $97,750, once they have gained the 0321 PMOS.
3. Execution. Interested Marines are encouraged to contact the Reconnaissance Recruiter at 910-449-2071/keith.mycek@usmc.mil
(School of Infantry – East) or 760-763-9117/brett.bowman@usmc.mil (School of Infantry – West). Additional details can be found at:
https://www.2ndmardiv.marines.mil/talent-management/Recon-Lateral-Move/. Personnel
seeking to initiate the LATMOVE process should contact their Career Planner or Prior Service Recruiter. Eligible Marines must complete reference (b), which includes screening and suitability assessment information. recon_recruiting@usmc.mil. Personnel seeking
to initiate the LATMOVE process should contact their Career Planner or Prior Service Recruiter. Eligible Marines must complete reference (b), which includes screening and suitability assessment information.
3.a. Marines approved for LATMOVE by M&RA will execute PCS or Permanent Change of Assignment orders to Reconnaissance Training
Company, School of Infantry-West, Camp Pendleton, CA.
3.b. This MARADMIN is applicable to the Total Force.
3.c. Commanders and Senior Enlisted Leaders are encouraged to disseminate the information contained in this MARADMIN to all hands.
4. Direct all questions to MARADMIN POCs.
5. Release authorized by MajGen Ryan S. Rideout, Director of Manpower Management Division, Headquarters Marine Corps, Manpower
and Reserve Affairs.//
Date Signed: 10/30/2024 | MARADMINS Number: 524/24
Interested Marines visit www.2ndmardiv.marines.mil/Talent-Management/Recon-Lateral-Move for more info.
• The planned joint venture is foreseen to become the market leader in the segment of unmanned and remote-controlled combat and combat support vehicles.
• The first goal of the partnership is to jointly develop an unmanned system for mine scattering and counter-mobility operations. A corresponding system demonstrator is to be presented in 2025.
In the presence of the Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister of the Republic of Croatia Ivan Anuši? the Croatian UGS manufacturer DOK-ING and the Düsseldorf-based technology group Rheinmetall signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 28 October 2024 to establish a joint venture. A special feature of this partnership is the entirely European origin and value creation, which should result in various unmanned ground systems (UGS).
The agreement provides for joint development and subsequent marketing of the new DOK-ING Komodo platform. Rheinmetall AG is contributing various capability modules/upgrade kits (e.g. for direct and indirect fire, mine-laying, reconnaissance sensors, logistics, etc.), as well as its international market access and industrial capacities.
The implementation of the MoU is subject to the prior approval of the relevant regulatory authorities, including the European Commission and the respective national competition authorities.
As Dr Björn Bernhard, head of the Vehicle Systems Europe division, explains: “DOK-ING and Rheinmetall represent two leading European suppliers in their field, joining forces to carry out challenging projects. Together, we aim to set new standards and pave the way for the series production and application of UGSs. We are addressing the European market as well as other partner nations.”
Vjekoslav Majeti, founder and President of the supervisory board of DOK-ING: “The technological and industrial synergies between DOK-ING and Rheinmetall represent a unique opportunity to develop state-of-the-art unmanned combat and armoured breaching systems in Europe. We see this agreement as a fundamental contribution to creating a common future.”
Within the framework of the future cooperation, numerous combat and combat support solutions will be developed, including a joint project for an unmanned armed support vehicle (known as a Wingman) for battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles for reconnaissance and fire support is also to be developed. These shall be used in combination with already known classic Rheinmetall products, such as the KF51 Panther, the Büffel-3 armoured recovery vehicle and the Kodiak-3 armoured engineer vehicle.
Sydney, Australia – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a world-leading innovator in counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), is proud to announce the expansion of its European footprint. This is in response to the escalating need for advanced counterdrone technologies across Europe. To enhance its regional capabilities, DroneShield has strategically appointed a team of elite experts, establishing a strong presence in both Denmark and Germany, alongside its network of experienced in-country sales channel partners throughout Europe.
The seasoned senior European team includes Hans Høyer, Asger Hviid, Oleksiy Prymin, and Red McClintock, each with deep expertise in counter-UAS technologies. This multilingual team, proficient in English, German, Ukrainian, French, and Scandinavian languages, is poised to provide localised support, offering tailored solutions to defence, security, and commercial sectors across the continent.
The expansion comes at a pivotal time, as Europe faces increasing threats from rogue drone activities in military, critical infrastructure, and government sectors. DroneShield’s battle-proven solutions are globally deployed to combat these evolving threats, and the company’s European team will provide immediate, on-the-ground support for customers and partners in the region.
Hans Høyer, DroneShield’s newly appointed Sales Director, stated, “We understand the importance of proximity of support for our customers, and are committed to providing bespoke solutions that address their unique challenges. Whether it’s for special forces, fixed installations, or mobile solutions, we’re committed to providing unrivalled expertise and service.”
MSPO, Kielce in September 2024
Driving Innovation and Speed in European Defence
Throughout 2024, DroneShield’s European team has been actively engaging with the continent’s defence and security sectors, attending high-profile industry events to showcase rapidly deployable C-UAS detection and defeat solutions. DroneShield’s difference lies in the speed and precision of its deployments. With an unmatched track record for swiftly delivering solutions to the field, the team’s presence reinforces the company’s commitment to providing battle-proven, scalable technologies that meet the pressing challenges of modern drone threats.
“Our attendance at these key events isn’t just about showcasing products, it’s about highlighting the speed at which we can provide actionable, real-world solutions,” said Høyer. “We’re bringing a new level of readiness to the table, ensuring our customers can count on DroneShield for the rapid, effective deployment of tailored C-UAS solutions.”
Eurosatory, Paris in June 2024
Strengthening European Defence with Local Expertise
The team’s launch makes a significant step in DroneShield’s rapid global expansion, reinforcing the company’s position as a leader in the defence technology space. By providing on-the-ground guidance, demonstrations, installations, and continued service support, the European team will ensure clients benefit from DroneShield’s market-leading innovations in counterdrone technology.
Backed by the innovation and resources of DroneShield’s global headquarters in Sydney, Australia, as well as DroneShield’s United States headquarters in Warrenton, Virginia, the European team’s local presence offers customers rapid response times and personalised service. From product demonstrations to installations and ongoing support, the team ensures customers receive comprehensive, real-time assistance to tackle drone threats with unparalleled effectiveness.
Farnborough International Airshow in July 2024
DroneShield’s CEO, Oleg?Vornik, commented, “With our expanded European presence, we are in a stronger position to meet the growing demands for counterdrone solutions in the region. Our team is not only bringing cutting-edge technology but also providing hands-on support to ensure each customer receives the best possible solution.”
October 29th,2024 – Murfreesboro, TN – ZeroTech, a leader in outdoor optics and accessories, is thrilled to announce our newest offering in premier prism optics. Introducing the 1x MICRO Prism Scope, a versatile and robust optic designed for quick and clear sight acquisition across various shooting applications. Featuring four variable mounting height options, this micro prism is CNC cut from a solid billet of 6061 T6 aluminium. Its expansive eye relief and laser etched, illuminated reticle enhance both versatility and precision, making it an ideal choice for recreation, hunting, and competitive shooting. With the ability to operate with both eyes open, the Thrive HD Micro Prism allows the user to maintain high situational awareness, crucial for dynamic shooting scenarios. Integral Tenebraexadapters for Tactical Tough flip up lens cover fitment.
Key Features
Variable Mounting Options: Includes four, user configurable mounting heights, providing exceptional versatility across different platforms.
Robust Construction: CNC cut 6061 T6 aluminium body ensures durability and impact resistance, maintaining functionality under stress.
Etched Reticle: Offers precise aiming points with an etched ZT Prism Reticle that remains visible without illumination, perfect for users with astigmatism and daytime use.
Expansive Eye Relief: Provides comfort and ease of use with both eyes open, allowing for rapid target engagement.
Enhanced Optical Clarity: Multi-coated lenses deliver a clear field of view; 76.5m at 100m for broad situational awareness.
Advantages Over Other Optics
1x Prism Scopes bridge the gap between red dot simplicity and riflescope precision. The MICRO Prism sight’s laser etched reticle is superior for those with astigmatism, offering a clearer and more consistent aiming point than projected reticles. Its rugged construction and internal prisms provide a compact, durable optic ideal for close range out to moderate distance engagements without the need for adjustment.
Longer Form Product Details
The 1x MICRO Prism Scope is a compact solution combining the advantages of both red dot sights and traditional riflescopes. It features a 20mm objective lens and 13 brightness settings, including three for night vision, ensuring optimal visibility in most conditions. This opticis shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof, equipped with a side-loading CR2032 battery offering up to 5000 hours of operational life. The ocular and objective feature Tenebraex adapter geometry to facilitate 26FCV-010BK1 and 28MMFC-FCV Tactical Tough flip up lens covers, offering ultimate protection of the multi coated lenses. The integrated motion sensor with auto sleep and auto-on functionality conserves battery while keeping the scope ready for action. The fixed 1x magnification facilitates quick target acquisition, nearly as fast as red dot sights, while providing a refined reticle to enable precise shooting at extended ranges.
Bullet Point Specs:
Magnification: 1x
Objective Lens Diameter: 20mm
Tenebraex compatibility (26FCV-010BK1 & 28MMFC-FCV)
Reticle: ZT Prism Reticle, etched
Brightness Settings: 13 Adjustable, including 3 NV
Battery Life: Up to 5000 Hours
Turret Index Value: 1 MOA / Click
Windage / Elevation Adjustment Range: 90 MOA
Eye Relief: 90mm
Field of View @ 100m: 76.5m
Lens Coating: Multi-Coated
Operational Temperature: -20°c to +70°c
Weight: Approx. 8.9oz (1.6” riser and battery Installed)
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.
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.
