Aquaterro

OpEx 23 – Morningstar Strategic Services

June 5th, 2023

In addition to security advisory services for government and the financial sector, Morningstar Strategic Services offers a variety of high end equipment solutions in Canada including Torraka cold weather clothing from Sweden as well as Stone Glacier.

They also specialize in precision target engagement and are the Canadian agents for Nightforce as well as being affiliated with Accuracy 1st Canada which offers Accuracy 1st courses on a 360 deg range in Western Canada.

Sneak Peek – Global War on Terror (GWOT) Rifle Package from Daniel Defense

June 5th, 2023

Tomorrow, 6 June 2023, Daniel Defense is releasing an exclusive Global War on Terror (GWOT) rifle package which is based on an upgraded M4A1 RIII and includes a Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling, Magpul MBUS Pro flip-up sights, a Mil-Spec Flat Dark Earth (FDE) Cerakote finish on the rifle’s RIII rail instead of anodizing, custom Global War on Terror engraving on the lower, and a matching commemorative challenge coin. This isn’t the rifle you carried, it’s better.

I spent and afternoon on the range with the GWOT rifle and it’s everything you’d expect from Daniel Defense and more. DD guns are rock solid, reliable builds that incorporate lessons learned from their military and LE contracts. In fact, it’s that experience that makes this rifle so special. The US military and our Allies have used multiple Daniel Defense weapons and parts during the GWOT.

Since their founding around the sunset of the Assault Weapons Ban, Daniel Defense has been based near Pooler, Georgia, but they didn’t open their own dedicated factory until 2009. For a time they also manufactured in Ridgeland, South Carolina, but in 2017, they consolidated all of their operations in the state of-the-art, 300,000 Sq ft facility you see here. They manufacture everything themselves except for a few small parts like springs and fasteners in-house and have begun to integrate additive manufacturing for their suppressor line.

Daniel Defense wanted to honor those who served to protect our nation with a special price on these rifles. In a statement, Daniel Defense Founder/Executive Chairman Marty Daniel said, “This is our way of honoring and thanking the brave men and women who serve—and have served—this great country of ours.”

Daniel Defense tells me it will only be available for purchase by active-duty and retired military and law enforcement professionals, U.S. veterans, and those who diligently and selflessly served our nation in times of need.

They also want me to let you know that to see pricing and order the GWOT rifle package, you must first create an account and provide your military or law enforcement credentials or proof of service to ddmile@danieldefense.com. The rifle goes on sale 6 June 2023, and the sale runs through Independence Day, July 4.

www.danieldefense.com/gwot

Explore the FROG.PRO Tactical Evolution in the New Phantomleaf WASP II Z3A and Z2 Camo

June 5th, 2023

(GATTATICO (RE) – ITALY) – FROG.PRO®, the Italian reference brand for tactical tailoring, is proud to announce the release of its new Capsule Collection #2 – Phantomleaf Vibes.

Always keeping pace with the latest innovations

For years we at FROG.PRO have been committed to offering awesome tailored gear to our customers, but we don’t just stop at the design and production of combat equipment. Our mission is to integrate the most advanced technologies to provide operators with comprehensive and cutting-edge solutions to support them in modern warfare scenarios.

For this reason, we decided to launch the new line Capsule Collection #2 – Phantomleaf Vibes. The Phantomleaf WASP II Z2 and Z3A patterns are the result of experience and continuous field-test to provide optimal camouflage performance in various operating environments.

The advantages of new color schemes

The Phantomleaf camo pattern technology combines natural and geometric elements in an innovative way, creating an unprecedented camouflage effect. These specific camouflage solutions, blending with the surrounding environment, will make you practically invisible, allowing you to operate with confidence and discretion. Phantomleaf represents a true revolution in the field of camouflage and concealment, starting from a completely different approach.

The new Capsule Collection #2 – Phantomleaf Vibes, was created to integrate this technology into FROG.PRO’s most advanced products such as the HAWK Plate Carrier, the Chiron Mini IFAK and the Precision Rifle Scope Cover.

WASP II: breaking the perception

Phantomleaf develops modular camouflage systems using both the concept of mimikry (making something look like something else) and the concept of crypsis (hiding in one’s surroundings) to ensure optimal camouflage. The objective of WASP II is not to imitate or mimic the surroundings, but rather to introduce a pattern that leverages psychiatric and neuro-psychological knowledge to perplex the brain, disrupting its ability to classify visual information as familiar or menacing. All patterns provide micro, midi, and macro elements, addressing relevant engagement distances. The effectiveness of the pattern is demonstrated through night vision footage, showcasing its ability to provide camouflage even in low-light conditions and with infrared illuminators. The various WASP II patterns blend into designated environments, hindering human perception and making the user virtually undetectable.

As a starting point, we picked two patterns that would fit the biomes where most military operations currently take place.

Z2: from bush lands to desert

This coloration variant is designed to effectively camouflage in arid and desert-like regions, seamlessly blending into dry and burnt-out landscapes. With a combination of browns and yellows, this camouflage design perfectly mimics the hues and tones found in arid regions, ensuring that you remain hidden from sight even under the intense sun. Whether you’re lying low amidst the rubble or maneuvering through a desert canyon, WASP II Z2 offers reliable concealment at various distances.

Z3A: from forests to jungles

The WASP II Z3A pattern, a green variant of the Phantomleaf camouflage. Showcases remarkable camouflage capabilities in areas with high vegetation, ranging from deciduous and coniferous forests to lush tropical jungles. Thanks to the strategic combination of its seven-color palette, the adaptability of the Z3A pattern extends to boundary zones, where it transitions smoothly to bush, agricultural, or grasslands. The incorporation of micro, midi, and macro elements offers camouflage capabilities whether in close proximity or at longer ranges, ensuring a reliable performance at varying distances.

FROG.PRO, tactical innovation at your service.

Through the new Capsule Collection #2 – Phantomleaf Vibes, we express our commitment to evolution in the tactical field.

With the Phantomleaf WASP II Z3A and Z2 patterns, whether you’re operating in dense forests, lush jungles, or arid deserts, this new collection ensure you remain concealed, maintaining a tactical advantage. Rely on FROG.PRO for tactical awesomeness and stay one step ahead on the battlefield.

The Capsule Collection #2 – Phantomleaf Vibes is now available on www.frogpro.eu.

AATC Tests Enhanced Intelligence Gathering Capabilities with MQ-9 Reaper Upgrade

June 5th, 2023

EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska (AFNS) —  

The Air National Guard-Air Force Reserve Command Test Center partnered with the 174th Attack Wing and 556th Test and Evaluation Squadron to test an upgraded satellite communications capability of the MQ-9 Reaper during exercise Northern Edge 2023 at Eielson Air Force Base.

Northern Edge 23 is a U.S. Indo-Pacific Command-sponsored, Headquarters Pacific Air Forces-led, multilateral, joint field training exercise at main operating bases Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Eielson AFB.

The MQ-9 is a remotely piloted aircraft primarily used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Air National Guard pilots, using the SATCOM upgrade, can now fly ISR missions in real-time almost anywhere around the world from remote bases in the United States.

The MQ-9’s upgraded SATCOM system uses advanced satellite technology to transmit data and communications over long distances. It is capable of flying at high altitudes for extended periods and its sensors can provide real-time intelligence on adversary positions, movements and activities. The ANG plans to deploy the upgraded MQ-9 to support ongoing operations around the world, as well as for training exercises and other missions in support of U.S. national security objectives.

“The speed at which this modernization effort and test program has been accomplished highlights the Accelerate, Change, or Lose vision from General Brown,” said Maj. Ryan Nastase, Test Program manager.

“This SATCOM upgrade will allow pole-to-pole operations while increasing the amount of data or bandwidth the MQ-9 can transmit and receive by more than double and reducing the latency or time of transmission by a factor of 10.”

Maj Ryan Nastase, Test Program Manager

With the upgraded SATCOM capability, the MQ-9 can continue to modernize by integrating more advanced sensors that require increased bandwidth. The upgrade enhances the aircraft’s ability to provide real-time situational awareness to combatant commanders around the world.

“This upgrade is a game-changer for the MQ-9 and the Air National Guard,” said Lt. Col. Matthew Harris, Hancock Field ANG Base test pilot at Syracuse, New York. “We can better support our combatant commanders and provide critical intelligence in real-time.”

The SATCOM upgrade is one of many advancements being fielded on the MQ-9. The ANG and its partners are continually working to enhance the capabilities of these critical assets and provide combatant commanders with the best possible support.

by SSgt Van Whatcott, 162nd Wing Public Affairs

Yankee Hill Machine Increases Their ASA Sponsorship Level

June 4th, 2023

Easthampton, MA: The American Suppressor Association (ASA) is excited to announce that Yankee Hill Machine has increased their sponsorship to ASA’s highest Tier 1 level for 2023. They join Silencer Shop and Elevated Silence as ASA’s third Tier 1 sponsor.

“YHM is proud to be a continued partner with the American Suppressor Association,” said Chris Graham, President and Co-owner of Yankee Hill Machine. “They are the front lines for suppressor advocacy and they step up to the plate whenever a bill is introduced that would impede suppressor ownership. YHM and the ASA will continue to fight until civilian suppressor ownership is legalized in every state.”

“THEY ARE THE FRONT LINES FOR SUPPRESSOR ADVOCACY”

— Chris Graham, President and Co-owner of Yankee Hill Machine

As a third generation family business, YHM holds true to their original goal of helping those who served. Over the past 70 years, YHM has established a reputation as a world class rifle, suppressor, and accessories manufacturer, as well as a full service OEM manufacturer. They offer high-end durable products at an affordable price-without sacrificing quality.

“Chris, his brother Kevin, and the entire team at Yankee Hill Machine are devoted supporters of suppressor rights and the Second Amendment,” said Knox Williams, Executive Director of ASA. “Over the years, we’ve had tremendous success working directly with YHM to help legalize suppressor ownership and their use by hunters in New England. That said, we still have a long way to go. With partners like YHM, who consistently go above and beyond, I’m confident that one day we will reach our goal of making suppressors legal in all 50 states!”

Federal Ammunition Adds New Train + Protect 10mm Auto

June 4th, 2023

ANOKA, Minnesota – May 31, 2023 – Federal recently added a new line extension to its popular and versatile Train + Protect product line—which features packaging that honors any shooter’s birthright to bear arms—with a new load in 10mm Auto. The full-power 10mm offering features a Versatile Hollow Point (VHP) bullet to deliver both precise, practical performance at the range, and instant, reliable expansion on impact.

Train + Protect | Federal Ammunition

“With the popularity of our Train +Protect products and customers desire to have a good all-around option they can use for training as well as protection, we’re expanding the line with 10mm auto,” said Federal’s Handgun Product Line Director Nick Sachse. “10mm has seen a resurgence in recent years and we continue to receive requests for more options in the cartridge.”

Summary of features include: New 180-grain 10mm Auto load; VHP bullets based on proven Federal versatile hollow-point design; Reloadable Federal brass case; Extremely reliable primer; Loaded to produce consistent performance on the range and in defense situations; 50-count boxes; MSRP: $57.99.

For more information on all products from Federal or to shop online, visit www.federalpremium.com.

Blackhawk’s Zach Rodman and Jared Halbert Take First at South Carolina Tactical Games

June 3rd, 2023

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – May 31, 2023 – Blackhawk®, a leader in law enforcement and military equipment for over 20 years, congratulates tactical athletes Zach Rodman and Jared Halbert for their first-place finish at The Tactical Games South Carolina Team Event 2023, which took place at The Sawmill Training Complex.

Like individual Tactical Games events in terms of structure, Team Events see two competitors working together to complete various physical and marksmanship stages as quickly as possible. Rodman and Halbert both ran Blackhawk T-Series® holsters and Foundation Series Tac Nylon gear, including plate carrier and belt, to help them secure first-place in the Men’s Elite Division.

“Jared and I have competed against each other since 2019,” said Rodman. “We first met on the firing line in Mississippi, and since that time have remained good friends. I’m more of a team orientated person by nature, so having Jared as a partner over the last two years has been great. Not only is he a great teammate, but as a former champion, he knows what it takes to win. I push hard individually, but there’s an element of not letting your teammate down that makes you push even harder.”

The duo, who previously secured a second-place win when they competed together last season, have praised the Foundation Series and T-Series holsters as a big contributor to their success both in individual and team competitions.

“The Foundation Series Plate Carrier is very minimalist but still holds standard sized plates,” Halbert said. “This design makes it easy to traverse obstacles where other plate carriers would get caught-up. Plus, the removable placard options have proven to be great for mission specific loadouts. Likewise, I’m also pretty particular about holsters, and the T-Series is not only fast, but it also retains the pistol through any kind of movement.”

Blackhawk’s T-Series holsters with leg straps are optimally designed to maintain proper holster position and security as competitors navigate unconventional obstacles throughout The Tactical Games. Foundation Series Tac Nylon gear gives competitors some of the lightest weight gear in its class without sacrificing durability or modularity, which is critical to maintaining speed and endurance while wearing heavy plate carriers.

To learn more about Blackhawk or to see the full line-up of holsters and tactical gear, head over to Blackhawk.com.

The 2023 OTTE Gear x Bawidamann 2023 Narcos Playa Shirts Are In!

June 3rd, 2023

It’s finally here! The 2023 OTTE Gear x Bawidamann 2023 Narcos Playa print which recalls the 80s Miami Drug War, a gritty fight between the US and the cartels. The fuel for the failed state was Cocaine and the fight was with the elusive Cocaine Cowboys. Hand-designed by Andrew Bawidamann himself, this pop-heavy print courses through your veins, weaving around Hibiscus & Coca, Beechcraft Kings & Cigarette boats, Brass Knucks & AK47s to name a few. The Mexican bass guitar plays Chalino Sanchez’s music, setting the stage for Miami Vice days and nights.

ottegear.com/products/aloha-narcos-playa-shirt

Hidden gems include Grenades & AK47s, straight razors, brass knucks, switchblades, Bren 10, SBS 12, coffins, rosary & skulls, CAR 15 & mac10.  Available in Blowout Black, Paradise Blue and Rush Green.

The Nacros Playa print is also available on OTTE Gear as a Nalgene bottle in Rush and a Range Bag in exclusive Sunset Pink.  We also partnered with TXC Holsters to make this print available in the holster lineup as well (available on their site).

ottegear.com/products/og-x-nalgene-32oz-bottles

ottegear.com/products/tactical-range-bag

txcholsters.com/collections/limited-edition