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NP Aerospace Receives Contract from BeMOD to Deliver Remaining Light Tactical Transport Vehicles

October 3rd, 2024

NP Aerospace, the global vehicle integrator and armour manufacturer, has today announced the award of a contract by the Belgium MOD (BeMOD) to deliver the remaining 87 Light Tactical Transport Vehicles (LTTV). The original LTTV programme was to deliver 199 of the Mercedes-Benz UNIMOG based vehicles to the BeMOD. The contract to deliver the remaining vehicles has been novated following NP Aerospace’s acquisition of the assets of Jankel Armouring Limited, announced on 10 June 2024.

As well as the production of new LTTV vehicles, this contract also includes lifetime in-service support to the LTTV vehicle fleet for which NP Aerospace will use its proven Vehicle Systems, Services and Spares business unit to deliver. In addition to the LTTV contract, NP Aerospace has also signed an in-service support contract with BeMoD for their Rapid Reaction Vehicles (RRV) fleet, a product for which NP Aerospace also now owns the intellectual property.

NP Aerospace will commence the ramp up of the production plan adopting a fresh approach, with operations being established in their Coventry facilities. As already agreed with the customer, a particular emphasis will be placed upon working to the required quality standards and timescales.

NP Aerospace has a fully established vehicle related, UK-based supply chain in place and will be employing proven best practices to deliver a production programme that meets and where possible, exceeds customer expectations, bringing delivery back on track.

The LTTV vehicle is designed to provide a modular and configurable tactical support vehicle that benefits from unique, removable mission modules that enable the vehicle to be re-roled rapidly for operational platform versatility. With a payload of over 3 tonnes, dependent on the final vehicle specification, the LTTV has 3 core variants for Special Operations support, including an ambulance variant. Alongside a user-configurable, fully integrated suite of military sub-systems that includes a removable ballistic protection kit, a Roll-Over-Protection-System (ROPS), weapon mounts and communications fit.

Lieutenant Colonel Jean-François Gennotte from BeMoD said: “We are very pleased with the acquisition of the assets of Jankel Armouring Limited by NP Aerospace, which allowed us to novateour existing contracts and to keep our fleet supported. The long record of experience in this sector of NP Aerospace looks very promising and we are looking forward to a long lasting and hopefully fruitful cooperation.”

James Kempston, NP Aerospace CEO, commented: “following on from our recent announcement regarding the acquisition of Jankel Armouring Limited’s assets, we’re very pleased indeed to announce the award of this major contract, having been novated to us by the BeMoD customer.” He added: “We’re now putting everything in place to get the LTTV programme up and running and delivering to the customer’s expectations. This is great news for NP Aerospace, for our UK supply chain and for Coventry as we continue to create and/or sustain high skilled jobs in the region and across our supplier partnerships.”

Posted in Contracts, International, Mobility, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Kratos Design Group Announces “Hera” & “Hera Lite” Bag Riders for Magpul SL & SL-S Stocks

October 3rd, 2024

The Hera Bag Rider from Kratos Design Group is an accessory for the Magpul SL & SL-S line of stocks. It provides more surface area to contact your rear support bag giving you some benefits of a precision stock while maintaining the small profile and features of an assaulter-style stock. Designed to fit perfectly with the contours of the stock, it seamlessly integrates as part of the stock.

A defining feature of the Hera bag rider is the ability to store a ¼” bit and a Multitasker Nano optic adjustment tool giving the user a method to have tools with your rifle at all times (sold separately).

The Hera features a very aggressive texture on the bottom to ensure positive contact with the rear bag and prevent slippage.

The design incorporates multiple tabs and an alloy steel bolt to securely hold the bag rider in place. One of the tabs integrates with the bottom sling mount and prevents the bag rider from moving up and down along the stock.

Weighing just 1 oz the Hera adds over 2 inches of surface area to the bottom of your stock. The Hera Lite is a smaller version that weighs 0.8 ounces and adds over 1.5 inches of surface area.

At launch, the Hera and Hera Lite are offered in Black. Magoul FDE & ODG will be released shortly after.

The Hera line will also be seeing bag riders for Magpul CTR, B5 Sopmod, & B5 Bravo stocks and will be released later in 2024.

Backed by a lifetime warranty and Made in T exas, the Hera Bag Rider is designed to last for years of service and provide you with a stable foundation for shooting with magnified optics.

The Kratos Design Group Hera & Hera Lite bag riders are available directly from Kratos or at any of their dealers.

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Kratos Design Group Announces “Hera” & “Hera Lite” Bag Riders for Magpul SL & SL-S Stocks

Catch Up with Ocean State Innovations at Upcoming Future Forces Forum in Prague

October 3rd, 2024

OSI / Ocean State Innovations will be attending the FFF / Future Forces Forum in Prague – October 16-18th, 2024

Posted in Advertiser, International, Materials, Tradeshow | Comments Off on Catch Up with Ocean State Innovations at Upcoming Future Forces Forum in Prague

2024 NDIA Future Forces Conference Poster #1 – Low Recoil Weapon Effects for RWS FCS

October 3rd, 2024

The absolute best gems from the National Defense Industrial Association’s annual get-together of small arms, armaments, EOD, Fuse tech, and robotics communities are found in the back of the exhibit hall in the form of posters which are used to foster a Q&A interaction during breaks in the presentations. For the past few years, we have been fortunate enough to be allowed to share these posters with our readership.

Despite the title, this one actually pertains to a lightweight machine gun. It was developed through a CRADA with USSOCOM and demonstrated earlier this year at the ISOF Range event.

Although POC data is on the poster, AUSA attendees will be able to see it in person later this month during the annual meeting in Washington, DC in booth #4125.

Posted in NDIA, weapons | 1 Comment »

Forward Control Designs Introduces Muzzle Devices for Allen Engineering Suppressors

October 3rd, 2024

Forward Controls is excited to introduce our latest Muzzle Devices for Allen Engineering Suppressors: the 6315AE & 6310AE! While the Mk12 brake is well-known and, by our strict standards, actually a pretty good muzzle brake, we understand that there are often major benefits to using a flash hider instead. The 6315AE is a version of our 6315 that’s been designed to accept Allen Engineering 223 sound suppressors. The 6315 itself is based on the TDP A2 compensator and features smaller 3 and 9-o’clock ports. This forces more gas to be vented through the top 3 ports. Over the years, we’ve added small improvements; the most notable is the internal grooves that help keep the flash inside the cone cavity, rather than outside the muzzle device. Flats are incorporated for installation using a standard AR15/M16 armorer’s wrench or a 3/4″ wrench.

For those familiar with our naming conventions, you may have already deduced the calibers and thread pitches these devices are designed for. However, let’s recap:

• The 6310AE is for 30 caliber firearms, with a 5/8 x 24 thread pitch.

• The 6315AE is for .223/5.56 caliber, with a 1/2 x 28 thread pitch.

Both muzzle devices can be found here: www.forwardcontrolsdesign.com/allen-engineering

Both muzzle devices share a length of 1.88″ and weigh 2.30 oz. They’re crafted from 4140 steel and feature a black nitride finish. True to our commitment, these are designed, manufactured, and materials sourced entirely within the USA.

Posted in Press Release, Suppressors, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Forward Control Designs Introduces Muzzle Devices for Allen Engineering Suppressors

Remembering the Battle of Mogadishu

October 3rd, 2024

On this date in 1993, US service members were engaged in what is now known as the Battle of Mogadishu. A joint organization was formed named ” TF Ranger” to deploy to Mogadishu, Somalia in support of a UN-led humanitarian mission.

By October 3rd, they had been conducting operations for quite some time, but that day’s raid would be unlike anything they had experienced. The mission was to raid the city’s Olympic Hotel in order to capture key leaders of the Aidid Militia who had been opposing IN efforts to feed the locals.

Unfortunately, during the exfil portion of the raid, a battle ensued which claimed the lives of 18 Americans and wounded another 73. Additionally, CW3 Michael Durant was captured by the Aideed militia after being shot down while piloting his Blackhawk. Fortunately, Durant was later repatriated and went on to retire from the 160th.

Of the men killed that day, two would be awarded the Medal of Honor, Delta Operators Gary Gordon and Randy Shughart, for their selfless efforts to protect Durant after his aircraft, callsign Super 64, was shot down.

Last year, the US Army reevaluated the awards presented to the participants of that battle and amongst the Ranger element, upgraded 60 veteran’s awards including 58 Silver Stars and two Distinguished Flying Crosses. The order of battle included other organizations and their Soldiers have received similar upgrades.

If you are unfamiliar with the events, one of the best accounts of the battle is contained in the book, “Blackhawk Down” by author Mark Bowden. Much of the information was serialized prior to the book’s publication in the Philadelphia Enquirer. Later this was made into a movie bearing the same name.

Please take a moment to remember these men and their sacrifice.

Additionally, the 75th Ranger Regiment was created on this day in 1984, with the stand up of its 3rd Battalion. Four decades later, the Ranger Regiment boasts five battalions of some of the most elite warriors on the face of our planet.

Posted in History, Memorial | Comments Off on Remembering the Battle of Mogadishu

Tomahawk Performance Overlayer Anorak and Pants Now Available

October 3rd, 2024

Nashville, OCTOBER 2024 – Tomahawk Performance is pleased to announce the release of the Overlayer Anorak and Pants, a quiet, low profile, and featherweight weather protective solution for arctic or urban concealment. The Overlayer Anorak weighs in at 7.42 oz and the Overlayer Pants at 6.12 oz.

The Overlayer Anorak and Pant feature a wind-blocking, weather-shedding, ultra-lightweight 20D stretch woven nylonwith laser-perforated panels for heat regulation during dynamic movements in arctic or subarctic conditions. Lower-level gear access is easily facilitated with thoughtfully placed zippers, including a reverse U-zip for chest rig access, pass-through pockets on the upper arms, and outer leg cargo pocket access. The hood is helmet compatible with soft brim and adjustable drawcords.

The Overwhite colorway provides excellent concealment in arctic and subarctic conditions. The material collects environmental residue, creating a natural mottled effect that blends into the surroundings. The Overlayer Anorak in Ranger Green colorway is appropriate for urban concealment and surveillance, allowing military or law enforcement to quickly transition from an administrative state to engagement.

The Overlayer set is Trade Agreement Act compliant and is now available through the Tomahawk Performance website and via our dealer network.

Tomahawk Performance designs technical apparel and gear to maximize mobility and enhance performance during the mission. For more information, or sales inquiries, please reach out to contact@tomahawkperformance.com.

Posted in Camo, Clothing, Mountaineering, Press Release | 5 Comments »

NIOA New Zealand Open New Headquarters in Christchurch

October 3rd, 2024

NIOA New Zealand has officially opened its new Christchurch headquarters, marking a significant expansion after relocating from Auckland.

The new office, warehouse and distribution centre located in Rolleston will serve as the central hub for the company’s New Zealand operations offering enhanced capabilities for its sporting, defence and law enforcement customers throughout the country.

The decision to move the headquarters from Auckland to Christchurch was made last November and is part of NIOA New Zealand’s long-term growth strategy after acquiring the former Sportways wholesaling business in 2022.

NIOA has had a strong presence in New Zealand for many years through its support of the New Zealand Defence Force and New Zealand Police.

The new 1130 square metre facility will house administrative offices, distribution services and a high-tech warehouse and stock management system designed to streamline operations.

Today’s ceremony was attended by NZPOL Capability Manager Inspector Scott McGill, Royal NZ Police College Tactical Training Program Manager Derek Sarney as well as business leaders from the sporting, hunting and outdoor sectors.

NIOA New Zealand General Manager Fraser Winskill emphasised Christchurch’s strategic importance to the company’s New Zealand growth plans.

“The new NIOA facility in Christchurch positions us to better serve the entire New Zealand sporting, law enforcement and military markets,” he said.

“We are grateful for the continued support of our loyal customers and key partners and pleased to see such a strong turnout for this milestone. As always, our primary focus is to exceed the high standards they have come to expect from us.”

NIOA Group CEO Rob Nioa said the opening of the new headquarters reflected the company’s confidence in New Zealand.

“We are excited about the future and what this new chapter means for our New Zealand customers,” he said.

“It is not only a great new facility for Fraser and his team who are committed to driving forward our promise of setting the industry standard for exemplary service, products and outcomes.

“It’s also an investment in the Christchurch local economy and symbolises our confidence in the future of our New Zealand business and the opportunities it presents.”

About the NIOA Group…

The NIOA Group includes NIOA Australia, NIOA New Zealand, the Australian Missile Corporation, NIOA Inc [USA], Barrett Firearms [USA], NIOA UK and joint venture company Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions.
Established in 1973, NIOA Group is a global firearms, weapons and munitions company with operations in the USA, Australia and New Zealand with a distribution network covering 75 US State department approved countries.
NIOA is a major tenant at the Australian government owned, contractor operated (GOCO) munitions facility at Benalla in Victoria where it is currently manufacturing 120mm munitions for the Abrams tank along with 30mm and 35mm cannon ammunition.
The company is a joint venture partner with Rheinmetall of Germany in the Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions 155mm artillery forging facility in Maryborough, Queensland, delivering key munitions for allied nations.
NIOA has a strategic agreement with Aerojet Rocketdyne, a L3Harris Technologies company, to explore the manufacturing of key munitions and components within Australia’s sovereign guided weapons enterprise.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on NIOA New Zealand Open New Headquarters in Christchurch