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Combined Special Forces Selection Course a First for Australia

May 22nd, 2024

For the first time, Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) has run a combined selection course, allowing ADF personnel to apply for either special forces (SF) operators or SF integrators – such as medics, signallers or engineers.

About 250 candidates from across the ADF travelled to Bindoon Training Area in Western Australia for the 2024 Special Forces Common Selection Course, to be assessed for service based on personal and professional attributes.

They will then be selected for reinforcement training for SOCOMD core capabilities as SF operators or SF integrators.

Commanding Officer ADF School of Special Operations Lieutenant Colonel A said the significant weight of effort the command has put into orchestrating common selection demonstrated the importance it placed on finding the right people.

“We select people for service in SOCOMD using an attribute-based assessment, where the course builds in intensity and applies pressure to ensure the candidate’s true character can be observed,” Lieutenant Colonel A said.

“The Special Forces Common Selection Course is the main effort for SOCOMD for the month of May, with all SOCOMD units working together for the planning and execution of this key force-generation activity.”

During the first week, before sunrise, candidates woke to conduct a timed 20km pack march, already feeling the effects of sleep deprivation and fatigue.

Senior directing staff from Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) Warrant Officer Class 2 (WO2) J said the fatiguing nature of the program was developed purposely and collaboratively across the command to align with real-world demands of special operations.

“Fitness levels and cognitive behaviours are observed throughout the course, and the data points we collect enable candidates to have a genuine opportunity to demonstrate leadership and collective or individual skills,” WO2 J said.

“This also ensures all of SOCOMD’s candidates go through the same experience during selection no matter the role they apply for.”

At the end of the course, successful candidates will move into the reinforcement cycle or specialist training.

Story by Major Roger Brennan

Posted in Guest Post, International, SOF | Comments Off on Combined Special Forces Selection Course a First for Australia

Green Ammo E-Blanks Replace Traditional Blank Ammunition During U.S. Army 25th Infantry Division Live Fire Exercise

May 21st, 2024

Company’s Electronic Blanks Weapon System Enables Large-Scale Combat Operations Certification For Three Platoons

SKIEN, Norway – May 21, 2024 – Green Ammo, AS, developers of the industry’s only drop-in electronic blanks system for live weapons, today announced the successful demonstration of its electronic blanks (E-Blanks) weapon system as part of a U.S. Army 25th Infantry Division’s (ID) Live Fire Exercise (LFX).

Conducted as part of the 25th ID collective live fire event certifying the platoon’s ability to effectively synchronize weapons, the demonstration featured Green Ammo’s M4 and M249 weapon kits, enabling soldiers to train with personally configured, individual service weapons. Armed with the E-Blanks system, soldiers conducted battle drills while reacting to simulated stoppages consistent with the use of live ammunition, delivering a more realistic training experience. The platoons also observed the kit’s laser system and enhanced training aides to analyze performance across formations by assessing marksmanship principles.

Throughout the day and night drills, the platoons navigated diverse terrain spanning jungle environments to plains, expending the equivalent of 36,000 rounds of 5.56 ammunition and 57,600 rounds of 5.56 linked round ammunition. Additionally, given the electronic nature of the systems, units conducted training without the additional time, planning and energy typically required to transport, distribute and clean up after traditional blank ammunition training.

“Effective tactical training drills are core to mission preparedness and directly influence operational outcomes. Our soldiers train with familiar weapons but in doing so must also account for the preparation, transport of heavy cargo and cleanup associated with conventional blank ammunition. Those requirements limit the types of environments they can train in and the amount of time actually spent training,” said Lieutenant Colonel Pete Walther, Battalion Commander in the U.S. Army’s 25th Infantry Division, Senior Trainer of the event. “Live fire training exercises and certifications are crucial to ensuring our soldiers’ preparedness and ability to adequately perform tactical maneuvers in theater, underscoring the importance of training time.”

The Green Ammo E-Blanks system offers a completely electronic alternative to live and traditional blank ammunition for tactical training exercises, eliminating key pain points around blank ammunition control, cost, safety and sustainability. Additionally, the kit has operated under military-grade pressure testing, demonstrating its ability to withstand harsh environments and extreme temperatures ranging from up to 140° Fahrenheit down to 5° Fahrenheit.

“With the completion of these exercises, we’ve successfully demonstrated the reliability, durability and functionality of our Green Ammo E-Blanks system and played a role in certifying three platoons’ large-scale mission preparedness,” said Rolf Inge Roth, CEO of Green Ammo. “We’re thankful for the opportunity to participate in a live demo with the 25th (ID) and are very pleased with the kit’s performance. We look forward to continuing to build on this momentum and enhance soldiers across the globe.”

To learn more about Green Ammo’s patented electronic blank technology and its applications, visit www.greenammo.com.

Posted in Ammo, Army, International, Press Release | 4 Comments »

ZeroTech Optics Unveils the TRACE ADVANCED 5-30X56MM Precision Riflescope: Setting New Standards in Performance and Affordability

May 21st, 2024

Murfreesboro, TN – May 22, 2024 – ZeroTech Optics is proud to announce the launch of its newest innovation in precision shooting optics, the Trace Advanced 5-30X56mmriflescope. This groundbreaking product comes in two variants: the TRACE ADVANCED 5-30X56MM RMG 2 ILLUMINATED and the TRACE ADVANCED 5-30X56MM TREMOR3 ILLUMINATED. Both models are designed to meet the rigorous demands of competition and extended long-range (ELR) shooters, setting a new benchmark in the precision riflescope industry.

Manufactured in Japan, the Trace Advanced 5-30X56mmriflescope boasts a 34mm one-piece main tube, locking diopter, dual throw lever positions, push-button digital illumination, and Tenebraex™ Tactical Tough™ Flip Up Covers. ZeroTech has partnered with HORUS Vision to offer the field-proven TREMOR3™ reticle, while also featuring ZeroTech’s own illuminated RMG 2 reticle. The innovative hidden thread capped windage turret and oversized elevation and parallax turret system provide the ultimate combination of speed and precision, making the Trace Advanced a robust precision instrument you can count on.

See it in action here!

TRACE ADVANCED 5-30X56MM RMG 2 ILLUMINATED (Model: TR5306F-IR) & TREMOR3 ILLUMINATED (Model: TR5306FT3-IR)

Illuminated TREMOR3™ FFP reticle

• Illuminated RMG 2 FFP reticle

• Push-button digital illumination

• Locking diopter system

• Removable dual position Magnification Throw Lever

• 34mm one-piece tube

• Tenebraex™ Tactical Tough™ Flip Up Covers

• Precision Turret System (PTS)

• Zero Stop

• Capped Precision Windage Turret

• Glass-etched reticle

• Weathershield lens coating

• Argon Purged

Made in Japan

In the Box

• Tenebraex™ Tactical Tough™ Flip Up Covers

• 56mm Sunshade

• Neoprene Protective Scope Cover

• 2mm Turret Hex Key

• ZeroTech Vinyl Transfer Stickers

• QR Welcome Card & Instruction Manual

• Reticle Range Chart

• High-Quality Microfibre Cloth

Disrupting the Industry

ZeroTech Optics has designed the Trace Advanced 5-30X56mm riflescope to disrupt the big names in the precision riflescope industry by offering superior performance matched with affordability. The Trace Advanced series is engineered to provide unparalleled accuracy, durability, and versatility, making it the go-to choice for precision shooters who demand the best.

“We are so excited to finally unveil the Trace Advanced 5-30X56mm riflescope to the market,” said Ben Clarke, CMOat ZeroTech Optics. “Our collaboration with HORUS Vision and the implementation of our RMG 2 reticle has resulted in a precision instrument that meets the highest standards of performance. We are confident that the Trace Advanced will set a new standard in the industry, providing competition and ELR shooters with a robust and reliable optic that doesn’t compromise on quality or price.”

Backed by ZeroTech’s industry-leading AAA unconditional lifetime warranty, the Trace Advanced 5-30X56mm riflescope is the next phase in ZeroTech Optic’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

You can visit the company website at: www.zerotechoptics.com

Socials: www.instagram.com/zerotechoptics

Posted in Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on ZeroTech Optics Unveils the TRACE ADVANCED 5-30X56MM Precision Riflescope: Setting New Standards in Performance and Affordability

GM Defense and Mistral Inc. Announce Strategic Collaboration to Enhance Tactical Capability

May 21st, 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. — GM Defense, a subsidiary of General Motors, and Mistral Inc., a provider of high-performance, reliable and innovative solutions to U.S. defense and federal agencies, announced the integration of the innovative UVision and Mistral’s Hero-120 loitering munition with GM Defense’s light tactical utility vehicle. Combining GM Defense’s expertise in military mobility with Mistral and UVision’s loitering munition technology enables the companies to support the tactical needs of a modernized force.

The GM Defense utility concept vehicle is based on the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. The utility vehicle features a high percentage of commercial off the shelf parts, including Chevrolet Performance components to enhance off-road capabilities, and offers different seating configurations to meet customer requirements. The utility solution is designed with a cargo bed in the rear of the vehicle, ideal for housing Mistral’s and UVision’s Hero-120 solution, or to support command and control, electronic warfare, counter-unmanned aircraft systems, reconnaissance and logistics.

The Hero-120 is designed for engaging enemy combatants without exposing Soldiers to direct enemy fire. This loitering munition system is versatile in targeting, capable of engaging a variety of targets, including armored vehicles, enemy troops, field fortifications and urban structures. Its precision strike capability is specifically designed to maximize effectiveness while minimizing collateral damage.

“We’re seeing an increased need for light tactical wheeled vehicles that deliver agility, speed and lethality,” said John “JD” Johnson, vice president of Business Development for GM Defense. “Our collaboration with Mistral demonstrates the versatility of our utility concept vehicle and its ability to enhance the tactical capabilities of warfighters. With initial demonstrations successfully completed, we will continue to look for opportunities to showcase the value these integrated technologies deliver to defense customers.”

“This integration sets a new standard in military technology, providing the U.S. Army and allied forces with an unparalleled combination of mobility, precision and adaptability,” said Yoav Banai, vice president, Mistral. “Our collaboration with GM Defense reflects our combined commitment to advancing military capabilities and to evolving battlefield challenges.”

Key features:

• Maintainability: The utility vehicle is built for sustained operations in austere environments with a high percentage of commercial parts that may be obtained through GM’s existing global supply chain.

• Customization with Modular Kits: GM Defense offers diverse kits to enhance the concept vehicle’s capabilities, making it adaptable to meet a broad range of general purpose and special operations forces requirements.

• Multi-Canister Launcher – Expeditionary (MCL-E): The utility vehicle can house the Hero-120 MCL-E, enabling the operator to launch multiple munitions quickly and effectively.

• Enhanced Lethality: The integration of the MCL-E on the utility vehicle provides unmatched lethality for both mounted and dismounted Soldiers, enhancing their operational scope and effectiveness in diverse combat scenarios.

Posted in Industry, Mobility, Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on GM Defense and Mistral Inc. Announce Strategic Collaboration to Enhance Tactical Capability

Angstadt Arms Introduces the MDP-9 GEN 2

May 21st, 2024

All New Roller Delayed AR-9

Charlotte, NC, (May 21, 2024) Experience unmatched portability without compromising performance. Gone are the days of bulky, cumbersome firearms. Experience a firearm designed with modern challenges in mind. At 14” long and weighing just 3.7 pounds, the MDP-9 GEN2 redefines the balance between size, weight, and power.

The MDP-9 GEN2 embodies our relentless dedication to innovation and enhancing the user experience. Key improvements feature a revamped bolt carrier and roller-lock system, significantly reducing felt recoil and achieving the lowest in class muzzle rise. This redesigned carrier also offers adaptability for future modifications with various locking pieces tailored for specific uses.

The MDP-9 GEN2 features enhanced fire controls, including the EMT-9 PCC Nickel Teflon trigger. This upgrade ensures a smooth, precise trigger pull while maintaining a mil-spec pull weight and reliability. Additionally, the firearm is equipped with a detachable 3-lug muzzle adapter, a newly designed low-profile hand stop and a Radian Weapons Talon ambidextrous safety selector, enhancing both functionality and user experience.

The MDP-9 GEN2, priced at $2,475, comes in a variety of colors and is available in both pistol and SBR configurations. Additionally, a complete upper is offered at $1,655, compatible with most AR9 lower receivers and ready for easy installation.

Learn More: angstadtarms.com/mdp9

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | Comments Off on Angstadt Arms Introduces the MDP-9 GEN 2

Wilcox Industries Wins Significant Contract to Supply the Ruggedized Aiming/Illumination Device – Enhanced [RAID Xe] to the Dutch Armed Forces

May 21st, 2024

NEWINGTON, NH – In early 2024, Wilcox delivered the Wilcox RAID Xe to the Dutch Armed Forces following its selection after several months of rigorous testing and verification throughout 2023. The contract, awarded in late 2023, encompassed a substantial quantity of the Wilcox RAID Xe compact and potent laser aiming device.

The Wilcox Ruggedized Aiming/Illumination Device – Enhanced, commonly referred to as the RAID Xe, stands out as one of the most compact laser aiming devices currently available in the market today. Equipped with several integrated features, such as a dedicated room illuminator and a customizable remote port compatible with a variety of remotes, the RAID Xe distinguishes itself from other competitors. The RAID Xe comes in black or coyote/black exterior housings, offering red or green visible lasers, along with remote pads tailored to meet the specific needs of end users. Employing VCSEL laser diode technology for sharp and clear illumination, the RAID Xe represents the pinnacle of advanced design, all contained within a housing the size of a business card and weighing under 360 grams.

The selection process and subsequent award were achieved through collaboration and support via our Master Distributor for the BENELUX and the Scandinavian Region, ARLE – Applied Research Laboratory Europe. Manufacturing of the RAID Xe unit (pictured below) will take place at Wilcox’s expanding headquarters facility in Newington, NH, USA.

In response to the award, James Teetzel, CEO, stated, “Wilcox is always listening to our customers. It is their collective guidance that has allowed Wilcox to design, develop, and now offer our next-generation RAID Xe laser module to their security forces. We are honored and privileged to provide meaningful equipment to protect the sovereignty of the Dutch Armed Forces and the country they protect.”

Wilcox RAID Xe

For more information about the Wilcox RAID Xe and other Wilcox Xe Products, please visit www.wilcoxind.com/Xe-Products.

For information on all other Wilcox and Wilcox Products, visit Wilcox’ website at: www.wilcoxind.com or call: 603-431-1331.

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, International, Lights, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Wilcox Industries Wins Significant Contract to Supply the Ruggedized Aiming/Illumination Device – Enhanced [RAID Xe] to the Dutch Armed Forces

Tactical Tuesday: Revamped Recon Tactical Pant

May 21st, 2024

The Vertx® Recon Pant has evolved into the Recon Flex and Recon X Pant – revamped tactical pants engineered to conquer your mission requirements. Crafted from a lightweight stretch mini-ripstop fabric (Recon X made with No Melt No Drip fabric), they deliver uncompromising durability and performance. Their athletic fit ensures maximum comfort without sacrificing a professional appearance.

Our redesigned cargo pockets are deeper, providing ample storage capacity for all your mission-critical gear. The adjustable kneepad panels with hook and loop closures allow you to cinch them down effortlessly, ensuring a secure fit and unrestricted mobility.

The Recon Flex Pant is available in OD Green, while the Recon X Pant is available in Navy, Ranger Green, and Scorpion. Gear up with confidence, knowing that our pants are built to withstand the toughest challenges, keeping you prepared for whatever lies ahead.

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

Marine Corps Set to Receive New Light Assault Weapon System

May 21st, 2024

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. — Marine Corps Systems Command is pleased to announce the acquisition of the M72 Light Assault Weapon Fire from Enclosure Munition. The M72 LAW Fire from Enclosure (FFE) is a compact, lightweight, single-shot weapon system.

It incorporates an improved launcher featuring an enhanced in-line trigger mechanism and improved sling design. The M72 FFE comprises two configurations: the M72A8 anti-armor and the M72A10 multi-purpose, anti-structure munition. The M72A8 contains a high-explosive charge warhead that improves armor penetration, while the M72A10 provides Marines with increased capability for eliminating structures.

The M72 FFE is designed to deliver versatility and reliability, enabling Marines to counter threats effectively in close-range combat. Its performance is optimized for urban environments, vehicles, and complex terrain, ensuring operational effectiveness in these challenging scenarios.

The M27A FFE variants will replace the current LAW weapon system capability. The new system
allows Marines to fire multiple shots daily from inside a room and has less flash and back blast than an M9 pistol. The reduced visibility increases the lethality and safety of Marines.
“This new capability removes the Marine from exposure to enemy engagement by introducing the FFE capability, said Mr. Scott Adams, Product Manager, Ammo.

“The FFE and the reduced thermal signature provides the Marine with an added layer of protection.”

The MCSC team worked closely with their Army counterparts to procure this new capability. All
shoulder-fired rocket ammunition is procured through the U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command,
the Single Manager for Conventional Ammunition. This enables the services to combine orders to realize cost savings by leveraging economic order quantity prices.

The M72 FFE rocket underscores the Marine Corps’ ongoing efforts to lighten the warfighter’s load and increase lethality. PdM Ammo expects to begin fielding the M72A FFE in calendar year 2024.

Posted in Guest Post, USMC, weapons | 2 Comments »