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30th Anniversary of the Battle of Mogadishu

October 3rd, 2023

Today marks the 30th anniversary of 1993’s Battle of Mogadishu, a watershed event in the history of special operations.

The battle pitted elements of a joint SOF element named “Task Force Ranger” against the Aideed militia, with many in the city of Mogadishu joining in the battle.

Members of the unit had conducted an operation on that city’s Olympic Hotel in order to capture key leaders of the Aidid Militia. 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 militia. 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.

For those of you unfamiliar, 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.

For an insider account, watch SOF Veteran MSG Paul Howe (USA, Ret) discuss “The Battle Of The Black Sea” on Makeready.TV.

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

Posted in History, SOF | 2 Comments »

Emerging Technologies Integrated Test Force Takes Delivery of First eVTOL aircraft

October 3rd, 2023

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) —

Joby Aviation, Inc. officially delivered its first experimental electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft to the Air Force during a ceremony held at Edwards Air Force Base, Sept. 25. The ceremony showcased the unique multi-party collaboration between private industry, AFWERX, the 412th Test Wing and NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center.

The Emerging Technologies Integrated Test Force, part of the recently structured Airpower Foundations Combined Test Force, is the lead element tasked with testing and evaluating the technology for future national defense applications. The ET-ITF will work alongside a team from Joby Aviation as part of a unique collaboration between private industry and the Air Force.

“This partnership between AFWERX, Agility Prime and the ITF is a new, direct, agile path to progress technology through the Acquisition Valley of Death,” said Maj. Phillip Woodhull, ET-ITF director.

The test campaign is part of a larger program known as Agility Prime, an AFWERX led initiative that seeks to harness commercial offerings with military applications through investment in emerging technologies such as transformative vertical lift, distributed electric propulsion, electric, hybrid-electric, hydrogen, and other novel power generation sources, increased autonomy, advanced manufacturing, and agile combat employment support.

The Agility Prime Program was stood up because we believe that there is a future with vehicles like the one you see behind me here. There’s a transformative vertical lift industry that’s emerging and we need to be partners in it.

-Col. Elliott Leigh, AFWERX director

Edwards AFB presents an ideal location to conduct developmental flight testing of experimental aircraft due to an abundance of space and consistent ideal weather conditions. The ET ITF will utilize the 412th Test Wing’s world-renowned risk management process to ensure both manned and remotely piloted operations of the eVTOL aircraft are conducted safely.

Ahead of the first delivery, ET-ITF test pilots spent time with the eVTOL aircraft and systems at Joby’s Marina, California facility. This has allowed for a swift transition into developmental flight test operations at Edwards AFB. Test sorties are anticipated to begin eminently.

“As we forge forward and embrace the future of advanced air mobility, our legacy is a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration,” said Col. Douglas Wickert, 412th Test Wing commander. “Through the work of this test team, the electric dreams of today are going to become the aviation realities of tomorrow.”

By Harlan Huntington

412th Test Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Press Release | Comments Off on Emerging Technologies Integrated Test Force Takes Delivery of First eVTOL aircraft

German Federal Cartel Office Gives Go-Ahead to Joint Venture between Rheinmetall and Ukrainian Defence Industry

October 2nd, 2023

Launched in May 2023, strategic cooperation between Rheinmetall and Ukraine’s state-owned Ukrainian Defence Industry group (UDI), the former Ukroboronprom, has taken another step forward. On 28 September Germany’s Federal Cartel Office, Bundeskartellamt, cleared the way for establishing a joint venture between Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH and UDI in Kyiv. Authorization from other relevant agencies has already been applied for and is expected to come shortly.

“The joint venture is to be based in Kyiv and engage in service and maintenance as well as the assembly, production and development of military vehicles,” the German Federal Cartel Office said in its press release of 28 September 2023. “It will initially operate exclusively in Ukraine. There will be no competitive overlaps in Germany, nor are there any indications of competition concerns. The Bundeskartellamt cleared the transaction within one month.”

Cooperation between Rheinmetall and the Ukrainian defence industry is designed to strengthen Ukraine’s defence sector and ultimately the country’s national security by gradually building joint capabilities in defence technology in Ukraine.

Under the agreement, Ukraine will benefit from comprehensive technology transfers; from the creation of defence technology capabilities at home; from additional local value added; and from the prompt delivery of military equipment from Germany.

As a first step, cooperation will focus on the maintenance and repair of vehicles transferred to Ukraine under the German government’s multilateral “Ringtausch” equipment exchange programme as well as those directly supplied to Ukraine by Germany.

In later phases, based on a comprehensive transfer of technology, the cooperation partners intend to jointly produce selected Rheinmetall products in Ukraine. Looking ahead, cooperation between Rheinmetall and UDI could also involve the joint development of military systems by teams of Ukrainian and German specialists, including for subsequent export by Ukraine.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on German Federal Cartel Office Gives Go-Ahead to Joint Venture between Rheinmetall and Ukrainian Defence Industry

Introducing the Next-Gen Girsan High Power MCP35 PI Light-Weight (LW)

October 2nd, 2023

Cocoa, FL- EAA Corp and Girsan Firearms are excited to unveil the latest innovation in the world of firearms – the EAA/Girsan High Power™ MCP35 PI LW. This cutting-edge pistol redefines the standards of concealed carry firearms with its exceptional lightweight design and versatility, all while retaining a traditional lightweight metal frame and single-action trigger.

But that’s not all – with the help of our partners, you can experience the MCP35 PI LW for yourself through our exclusive dealer range event. This groundbreaking pistol features an alloy metal frame, making it up to 1/2lb lighter than the traditional steel frame Girsan High Power™. This enhancement not only ensures superior comfort but also facilitates effortless carrying for extended periods, a feature showcased during test firing sessions at participating ranges. Don’t miss out on the chance to test fire and truly appreciate the MCP35 PI LW’s performance at a range near you. To find a list of participating ranges, please visit our website at eaacorp.com/dealer-range-list.

Key Features of the EAA/Girsan High Power™ MCP35 PI LW include:

1. Multiple Configurations: The MCP35 PI LW is available in four distinctive variants, ensuring that every shooter can find the perfect fit for their needs. Choose from a Two-Tone Tungsten or all Black finish, with or without a rail (OPS or MATCH), to suit your preferences.

2. Optic Ready: All variants of the MCP35 PI LW come optic-ready, accommodating RMS and RMSc footprint optics, providing enhanced accuracy and target acquisition for shooters of all skill levels.

4. 9mm Chambering: Chambered in the widely popular 9mm caliber, the MCP35 PI LW combines manageable recoil with a substantial 15+1 rounds capacity magazine, making it an ideal choice for self-defense and target shooting.

5. Perfect for Concealed Carry: With a compact 3.88″ barrel and an overall lighter weight of 1.34 lbs., the MCP35 PI LW model is optimized for concealed carry, ensuring both comfort and discretion for everyday carry.

6. Additional Features: The MCP35 PI LW (OPS or MATCH) continues to offer shooters a generous number of features to include: G10 grips, ambidextrous safeties, an extended beavertail, straight trigger, fiber optic front sight and no magazine disconnect.

Girsan High Power™ 3.88” 9mm Black OPS | SKU: 390434 | SRP: $749

Girsan High Power™ 3.88” 9mm Two-Tone OPS | SKU: 390436 | SRP: $772

Girsan High Power™ 3.88” 9mm Black MATCH | SKU: 390430 | SRP: $749

Girsan High Power™ 3.88” 9mm Two-Tone MATCH | SKU: 390432 | SRP: $772

“EAA Corp and Girsan have come together to create a pistol that offers unmatched performance, versatility, and comfort for concealed carry,” said Chase Duffey, National Sales and Imports Manager at EAA Corp. “The MCP35 PI LW is a game-changer, and we are excited to introduce it to firearms enthusiasts who demand the best. I think if John Browning was around today he would give us a Thumbs Up for the MCP35 PI LW”

For more information about the EAA/Girsan High Power™ MCP35 PI LW and to stay updated on all of EAA’s current products, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, or visit our website at eaacorp.com.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | 1 Comment »

NDIA Future Forces Conference 23 Poster #6 – 5″ Propelling Charge Graphene Polymer Case

October 2nd, 2023

We’re back with a sixth poster, presented during last week’s Future Forces Conference, held in Huntsville by the National Defense Industrial Association.

As always, contact info is on the poster.

Posted in Ammo, NDIA | Comments Off on NDIA Future Forces Conference 23 Poster #6 – 5″ Propelling Charge Graphene Polymer Case

High Proof Media Company Launches IndieGoGo Crowdfunding Campaign for Groundbreaking Documentary Series: ‘The War Dog’s Story: Giving a Voice to the Voiceless’

October 2nd, 2023

October 2, 2023 – Many war stories have been told over the years, but rarely are those stories about man’s best friend, the military working dog. After speaking with many retired dog handlers, it became clear to us that the story of the working dog needed to be told. We started production on The War Dog’s Story back in July of 2022, and after 60 hours of filming, 39 interviews, 5 states around the country, and the potential for a 20-episode series, we need your help to cross the finish line.

For many months, we have worked on trying to get a major network to pick up the War Dog’s Story documentary. From the feedback that we received, the feelings were the same – there was no interest in war stories or the dogs in them. We decided to move forward on our own in order to get the War Dog’s Story completed and so we are now excited to announce our official crowdfunding campaign on IndieGoGo to honor these stories, and the dogs and people in them.

With the funds that we are able to secure, we will be completing the last of the interviews needed. How many episodes will go into the series ultimately depends on how much we’re able to raise with the crowdfunding campaign. Once the edit is complete, we’ll be submitting the documentary series to a distributor we have worked with previously. Other shows that we have produced have streamed on Amazon Prime, Tubi, and many other services in the past so we’re quite confident that The War Dog’s Story will end up on numerous streaming platforms as well.

Please help us spread the word to everyone you know about our crowdfunding campaign, which launches on October 2nd. Every like, share and contribution will help us cross the finish line. People can donate to the project via the IndieGoGo page or directly on the War Dog’s Story web site with our PayPal and credit card options. From the start, these stories that are being told are what matter the most to us and we could really use your help in letting everyone know about the campaign, the film and of course, the war dogs.

Thank you,

Bri Coelho

Executive Producer, The War Dogs Story

High Proof Media Company

Where people can donate:

• IndieGoGo Site: igg.me/at/thewardogsstory

• War Dog’s Story Site: www.wardogseries.com

• PayPal: www.paypal.com/paypalme/highproofmedia

Social Media Platforms:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/highproofmediacompany

•Instagram: www.instagram.com/highproofmediacompany

• Twitter: twitter.com/@highproof_media

• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@HighProofMedia

• IMDB: www.imdb.com/title/tt29168674

Posted in Guest Post, History, K9 | Comments Off on High Proof Media Company Launches IndieGoGo Crowdfunding Campaign for Groundbreaking Documentary Series: ‘The War Dog’s Story: Giving a Voice to the Voiceless’

KAK Industry K-SPEC Recoil Reduction Buffer

October 2nd, 2023

The KAK Industry K-SPEC Buffer was developed with specific goals: reducing felt recoil and providing faster follow-up shots. With modern technology being applied to firearms, you’re likely aware of the recoil management solutions applied to many popular pistol operating systems. Recoil rods in pistols advanced from a single-piece recoil rod assembly to a dual recoil spring assembly with a compression guide rod. With our new K-SPEC buffer systems, we have applied this same concept to the AR15 platform.

The K-SPEC Buffer features an innovative recoil reduction system that absorbs and disperses felt recoil. Minimizing muzzle flip and kickback allows you to fire faster and more accurately by being able to stay on target more effectively.

The K-SPEC Buffer features a two-piece reciprocating buffer body and a captured compression spring mechanism internally, which works in conjunction with our flat wire buffer spring. The majority of the felt recoil is transferred into the buffer spring and then dispersed into the K-SPEC buffer internals. This combination of features helps to absorb recoil and distribute it more evenly and linearly instead of abruptly as you experience with traditional buffer systems.

K-SPEC Buffer systems are available for the AR15 in a variety of configurations including, Carbine length, A5 length, and Extended PCC length. Selecting which buffer you need is easy. Simply select the weight that is closest to what you are currently running. If your current weight is lighter, such as a 3oz Carbine buffer, you should choose the K-SPEC H1 weight.

See all K-SPEC buffers here: kakindustry.com

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on KAK Industry K-SPEC Recoil Reduction Buffer

Naval Special Warfare Initiates Random Performance Enhancing Drugs Testing For Health Of Force

October 2nd, 2023

CORONADO, Calif. — In a decisive move to underscore the health, safety, and readiness of its force, Naval Special Warfare (NSW) Command is set to introduce incremental, random force-wide urinalysis testing for Performance Enhancing Drugs (PEDs), commencing Nov. 1st of this year.

This initiative stems from the command’s continuous effort to eliminate unauthorized PED use, a matter that Rear Adm. Keith Davids, commander, Naval Special Warfare Command, stresses is of paramount importance.

“My intent is to ensure every NSW teammate operates at their innate best while preserving the distinguished standards of excellence that define NSW,” said Davids.

In strict alignment with Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Navy regulations, the use of unauthorized PEDs, including steroids, human growth hormone, and SARMs, without a military medical prescription following DoD protocols, remains dangerous and poses significant risks.

NSW’s new testing initiative will consist of incremental, random tests conducted in parallel with the Navy’s standard testing and following the mandated 15% of the unit’s population per month.

Defense Instruction (DoDI) 6130.06, Use of Dietary Supplements in the DoD, dated 9 March 2022, prohibits use of products on the DoD Prohibited Substance Ingredients List, found on the Operation Supplement Safety website, unless authorized by a DoD healthcare provider.

“This incremental, random force-wide testing initiative is far more than a regulatory step—it’s a steadfast commitment to the health, safety, and operational readiness of every member of the NSW community,” Davids said.

According to Davids, NSW leadership understands that there can be legitimate medical conditions that warrant treatment with prescription supplementation and medication – under military medical supervision.

“The unauthorized and unsupervised use of PEDs is what we are trying to identify and prevent,” said Davids. “Nevertheless, we realize that some of our teammates may have legitimate medical conditions that need to be treated with prescription supplementation. If that is the case, we encourage our teammates, who haven’t already, to speak with their medical providers to get diagnosed and properly treated.”

Learn more about DoD prohibited dietary supplement ingredients at www.opss.org.

By Naval Special Warfare Command Public Affairs

Posted in Guest Post, Medical, Navy, Profession of Arms, SOF | 10 Comments »