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445th OSS Tests New Protective Mask Suited for Wing C-17 Aircrew

July 18th, 2023

Airmen from the 445th Operations Support Squadron’s aircrew flight equipment (AFE) shop and 89th Airlift Squadron participated in a field testing and training event for the M69 Joint Service Aircrew Mask for Strategic Aircraft (JSAM SA) assembly, the new aircrew flying chem gear June 5-9.

The M69 JSAM SA assembly will replace the Mask Breath Unit-19P Aircrew Eye and Respiratory Protection (AERP) equipment. It is currently approved for all fixed-wing, non-ejection seat, non-pressure breathing large frame aircraft, such as the C-17 Globemaster III.
When the new masks arrived, they were unpacked with each one carefully inspected for defects or damage before being added to the inventory list.

Members with Headquarters Aircrew Flight Equipment and Air Force Life Cycle Management CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) Defense Systems from Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland participated with the 445th AFE for the equipment inspection and provided the training.

The deputy program executive officer for the AFLC¬MC Agile Combat Support Directorate, Col. Carlos Quinones, was on hand to see how the inspection process works and understand the new assembly in comparison to the current MBU-19P AERP, as the six divisions under his directorate provide materiel solutions, acquisition life cycle management and support equipment, among many other functions, to meet Air Force operational needs.

Master Sgt. Diego Cancino, 445th Operations Support Squadron AFE flight chief, gave high re-marks about the new equipment compared to the current equipment being used.

“The new mask system is a breath of fresh air for both AFE as the equipment maintainers and aircrew as the end user,” Cancino said. Our old legacy system, while proven effective, was beginning to show some age, and we felt that we were overdue an update.”

Bryan McCoy, a U.S. Air Force Aircrew CBRN fielding coordinator from Aberdeen provided training to 445th AFE Airmen and gave a presentation and demonstration to 89th AS aircrew members (pilot and loadmaster). The purpose was to share information and answer questions that aircrew members might have about M69 JSAM-SA.

The AFE shop will be individually fitting each aircrew member with the M69 mask and providing training on use and wear.

“We are all really excited to implement this new mask to the field here,” Cancino said. “The support and guidance we have received from our higher headquarters leadership on implementation and fielding has also been some of the best I have ever experienced in my career.”

Story by Stacy Vaughn

445th Airlift Wing, Public Affairs, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio

Posted in Air Force, CBRNE, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

GA-ASI’s Unmanned Aircraft Cross 8 Million Flight Hours

July 17th, 2023

>New MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian® Models Add More Than 4,000 Hours

SAN DIEGO – 14 July 2023 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA?ASI) today announced that its family of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), which includes the Predator®, Reaper, Gray Eagle, Avenger®, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian® lines, has surpassed eight million flight hours. GA-ASI aircraft have completed 566,000 total missions in nearly 40 countries around the world.

Adding to the total are 13 MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian UAS that have flown more than 4,000 flight hours, including the new Protector RG Mk1 being delivered to the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force. The first three Protectors are currently undergoing Integrated Test, Evaluation, and Acceptance trials. In addition, MQ-9Bs are being operated by the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF), as well as supporting various U.S. Navy exercises.

“GA-ASI continues to be a leader in developing reliable, cost-efficient, and sustainable unmanned aircraft systems that perform advanced operations for our customers around the world,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden P. Blue. “Eight million flight hours is another achievement on our list of historic firsts, which demonstrates our relentless commitment to quality.”

The exact aircraft and customer that achieved the milestone is unknown, as it’s estimated that more than 50 Predator-class Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) RPA are airborne worldwide every moment of every day.

GA-ASI aircraft average 40,000 hours per month, supporting programs with the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, NASA, the Italian Air Force, the UK Royal Air Force, the French Air Force, the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces, the Spanish Air Force, the Royal Netherlands Air Force, the Indian Navy, the Polish Air Force, JCG, JMSDF, and others, with more customers coming online soon. Missions include helping protect ground units on the battlefield, supporting first responders in the wake of natural disasters, and providing critical ISR around the world. These aircraft systems continue to maintain some of the highest mission-capable rates in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army aircraft inventories.

GA-ASI has produced more than 1,000 aircraft and nearly 500 Ground Control Stations (GCS) in more than three decades of business. In addition to UAS and GCS, GA-ASI produces Processing, Exploitation, and Dissemination (PED) systems, as well as sensor payloads that deliver radar and video imagery, detect moving targets on the ground and over water, and provide Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) on signals of interest. GA-ASI has also developed a Detect and Avoid (DAA) system to facilitate the safe integration of unmanned aircraft systems into civil airspace in addition to combat environments.

The Predator-series family includes Predator A and Predator XP, Predator B/MQ-9A Reaper, Predator B Extended Range (ER), Guardian, Gray Eagle, Gray Eagle ER, Predator C Avenger/ER, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian.

Posted in Aviation, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI’s Unmanned Aircraft Cross 8 Million Flight Hours

Tactical Games Return to Iowa, Hosted by Brownells

July 17th, 2023

GRINNELL, Iowa (July 14, 2023) – The Tactical Games returns to Iowa, with 180 competitors scheduled to compete at the Big Springs Range in Searsboro, Iowa, July 15 and 16.

Founded in 2018, the Tactical Games combines shooting with active physical fitness — as competitors perform physical challenges including runs, obstacle courses and weightlifting before engaging targets at various distances with rifles and pistols — all under time.

Competitors are organized into different divisions based on experience, age, sex and skill level.

Hosted by Brownells, the July 2023 games marks the second time the Tactical Games has operated a competition in the Hawkeye State, less than a year after the inaugural Iowa edition of the games back in October 2022.

“We are very happy to be part of the Tactical Games again,” said Brownells CEO Pete Brownell. “The Tactical Games challenges athletes to be excellent in many different activities from running and lifting, to climbing and shooting. The intensity is inspiring and the community spirit is awesome. It’s a perfect partnership, and we hope folks come watch these games at Big Springs range this Saturday and Sunday”

Spectators are welcome during the two-day event, and there will be parking available at the Big Springs Shooting Complex located at 4945 IA-146 near Searsboro.

Spectators are strongly encouraged to bring their own eye and ear protection, as there will be ongoing live fire on the various ranges at Big Springs throughout the Tactical Games

To learn more about the Tactical Games, visit the Tactical Games website.

Posted in Press Release, Shooting Sports | Comments Off on Tactical Games Return to Iowa, Hosted by Brownells

SITKA Gear Introduces Core Merino Wool Collection

July 17th, 2023

New Merino wool base layers create an intuitive, durable three-tiered system for outdoor enthusiasts

The refreshed Merino base layer collection creates a simple, intuitive and easy-to-shop system featuring all of the properties consumers love about wool with the added value of a more durable, longer lasting ArmorSpun wool material.

BOZEMAN, MT. (July 17, 2023) – Merino wool base layers have long been relied on for key features like temperature regulation, breathability and odor resistance properties, with one drawback—longevity. Now, SITKA, the leader in high-performance hunting apparel, is introducing its new ArmorSpun Merino Wool that allows for the best of both worlds with materials built for rigorous, extended use while maintaining the properties of wool that outdoor adventurers demand in the field.

The Core Merino Collection features a simple, intuitive and easy-to-shop three-tiered system that allows consumers to easily adapt their comfort level given their day-to-day needs. Unlike other wool products, the easy-care Merino fabric is pre-shrunk and can be washed with other active gear with options in three weights – 120 gram, 220 gram and 330 gram – the SITKA Core Merino Collection offers endless possibilities when worn on their own during warmer early season temperatures or as foundational base layers in colder late season weather.

“Merino wool base layers have long been sought out by outdoor enthusiasts for their exceptional qualities. However, longevity has been a common concern,” said Chris Derrick, Product Manager at SITKA Gear. “With our ArmorSpun Merino Wool, we have bridged the gap, creating materials that improve durability while preserving the properties of wool that are indispensable.”

Core Merino 120 Series
The Core Merino 120 Series, the lightest of the three series, is expertly designed for demanding outdoor activities. Whether worn independently during early season warmth or as a foundational base layer as temperatures drop, the 120 series offers a range of options, including four men’s and two women’s variations, to suit individual preferences.

Men’s Core Merino 120 LS Crew
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Total weight: 6.1 oz.
MSRP: $119

Men’s Core Merino 120 SS Crew
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Total weight: 4.8 oz.
MSRP: $89

Men’s Core Merino 120 Hoody
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Contoured hood for coverage and concealment
• Breathable merino wool mesh facemask for concealment
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 8 oz.
MSRP: $169

Men’s Core Merino 120 Bottom
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 4.7 oz.
MSRP: $119

Women’s Core Merino 120 LS
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 4.4 oz.
MSRP: $119

Women’s Core Merino 120 Bottom
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 3.5 oz.
MSRP: $119

Core Merino 220 Series
The Core Merino 220 series is built for rigorous use and is the middle of the three weights, making it the most versatile. It’s perfect on its own in mild conditions or as a foundational base layer when the weather gets cold. The 220 series includes three options for men and a half-zip in women’s sizes.

Men’s Core Merino 220 Half-Zip
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 11.1 oz.
MSRP: $199

Men’s Core Merino 220 Bottom
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 7.8 oz.
MSRP: $129

Men’s Core Merino 220 Boxer
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 4.6 oz.
MSRP: $60

Women’s Core Merino 220 Half-Zip
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 8.5 oz.
MSRP: $199

Core Merino 330 Series
The Core Merino 330 series is built for rigorous use and is the warmest of the three weights. Built with a recycled synthetic interior, the result is an ideal foundational base layer that prevents the clammy and itchy feeling often associated with heavyweight wool.

Men’s Core Merino 330 Half-Zip
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 15 oz.
MSRP: $219

Men’s Core Merino 330 Hoody
• Contoured hood for coverage and concealment
• Low-profile hand warmer pocket
• Breathable merino wool mesh facemask for concealment
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 18.7 oz.
MSRP: $249

Men’s Core Merino 330 Bottom
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 11.3 oz.
MSRP: $139

Men’s Core Merino 330 Zip-Off Bottom
• ¾-length design eliminates bunching around your boot tops
• Full-length side zips make for easy on/off without removing your boots
• Color coded waistband tabs for correct alignment of side zippers
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 10.9 oz.
MSRP: $159

Women’s Core Merino 330 Half-Zip
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 12.4 oz.
MSRP: $219

Women’s Core Merino 330 Hoody
• Contoured hood for coverage and concealment
• Low-profile hand warmer pocket
• Breathable merino wool mesh facemask for concealment
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 16.8 oz.
MSRP: $249

Women’s Core Merino 330 Legging
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 8.8 oz.
MSRP: $139

Merino 330 Glove
• Touch screen compatible Ax® Connect thumb and forefinger
• Total weight: 2.2 oz.
MSRP: $49

Merino 330 Beanie
• Total weight: 1.7 oz.
MSRP: $40
Available: July 17th, 2023

Learn more about SITKA Gear here.

Posted in Clothing, Press Release | Comments Off on SITKA Gear Introduces Core Merino Wool Collection

SOFWERX – Broadcast Dissemination Platform Light (BDP-L) Assessment Event

July 17th, 2023

SOFWERX, in collaboration with SOF Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics (SOF AT&L) Tactical Information Systems (TIS), will host an Assessment Event (AE) 21-23 August 2023 to identify solutions for a Broadcast Dissemination Platform Light (BDP-L) that can operate in a land environment conducting Military Information Support Operations (MISO). Configurable capabilities include FM and cellular dissemination and must weigh less than 100 pounds including travel cases.

BDP-L shall be designed to provide broadcast capabilities to support small teams and operational elements and is comprised of a single channel and single band broadcast capability. The BDP-L will be man-portable/man-packable. The white paper should identify what adaptations or modifications to the off-the-shelf system may be required to satisfy all performance attributes. The AE will also consider how much technical risk the proposed adaptations or modifications introduce to the existing off-the-shelf platform.

This assessment solicits white papers to describe off-the-shelf BDP-L systems. The most promising candidates will be invited to virtually demonstrate/present some performance attributes with vendor-provided equipment and operators.

Interested parties (U.S. Persons Only) must submit NLT 04 August 2023 11:59 PM ET.

events.sofwerx.org/bdp

Posted in Information Warfare, SOF | Comments Off on SOFWERX – Broadcast Dissemination Platform Light (BDP-L) Assessment Event

Recon Boonie Hats Now Available from Carcajou Tactical

July 17th, 2023

During last month’s CANSEC coverage we gave you a sneak peek at Carcajou’s new Recon Boonie Hat. They’re now available. The hat features a short brim, fitted with laser cut mesh leaves for better concealment and netting at the crown to attach additional camouflage material.

They are offered in two sizes and a variety of camouflage patterns, as seen in these images.

Made in Canada. Get yours at carcajoutactical.com/products/recon-boonie-hat.

Posted in Camo, Clothing | Comments Off on Recon Boonie Hats Now Available from Carcajou Tactical

SeaToSummit – Big River Dry Bag

July 17th, 2023

Offered in 5, 8, 13, 20, 35, and 65 liter sizes, the Big River Dry Bag from SeaToSummit is made from waterproof 420D nylon fabric with double stitched, reinforced, tape sealed seams and incorporates a waterproof non-wicking roll top closure. Additionally, there are multiple lash points.

Colors available are Black, Gold Brown, Surf Blue, and Picante Red.

seatosummit.com/products/the-big-river-dry-bag

Posted in Load Carrying, Maritime | Comments Off on SeaToSummit – Big River Dry Bag

Jolly Vihar 23 Enhances US, Hungarian Air Forces Interoperability

July 17th, 2023

PÁPA AIR BASE, Hungary (AFNS) —

The 56th Rescue Squadron and the 56th Rescue Generation Squadron assigned to Aviano Air Base, Italy, are participating in the bilateral training exercise Jolly Vihar 23-2 at Pápa Air Base, Hungary June 26 through July 7.

Exercise Jolly Vihar is aimed to enhance the U.S. and Hungarian forces’ ability to conduct integrated combat search and rescue scenarios and perform maintenance operations. This exercise benefits the 56th RQS and 56th RGS along with NATO ally and partner nations by enhancing interoperability while learning each other’s techniques, strategies and procedures.

“The purpose of exercise Jolly Vihar for the 56th Rescue Squadron is terminal employment,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kayleigh Jones, 56th RQS special missions aviator instructor. “This is a great time for aircrew to practice factor threat analysis because we never know what squadron or unit we’re going to be working with. The more we integrate, the better we can facilitate personnel recovery across Europe.”

Three U.S. Air Force HH-60G Pave Hawks flew to Pápa Air Base for Jolly Vihar. During the two-week exercise, a large portion of the training was live fire and search and rescue missions. Airman assigned to Aviano AB and Pápa AB act as red cells during the search and rescue missions. Red cells are role players whose purpose is to present problems that the aircrew must solve as a team.

A Norwegian flight medic responds to a survivor during exercise Jolly Vihar at a training range near Pápa Air Base, Hungary, June 28, 2023. Search and rescue missions covered a large portion of exercise Jolly Vihar and role players acted as survivors needing to be recused by the aircrew. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Synsere Howard)

Norwegian forces on each aircraft fulfill the role of a pararescue team. Their job is to help to mitigate threats and safely recover red cells with information relayed to them and the aircrew. According to Jones, working with the Norwegian forces improves cohesion with the knowledge learned from one another. This can also be applied to real-world situations.

“We’re out here working with NATO allies and partner nations such as the Norwegians and the Hungarians,” Jones said. “We’re working on interoperability and learning their techniques and procedures while sharing ours with them.”

According to Jones, there are a lot of moving pieces in an exercise of this magnitude. The mission cannot be accomplished without other agencies, such as maintenance personnel, aviation resource managers, communications technicians and aircrew flight equipment specialists.

“These personnel are essential to making sure this exercise is executed safely and efficiently,” Jones said.

Jolly Vihar aims to advance and support rescue capability in U.S. European Command and NATO. Training with NATO allies and partners in exercises like Jolly Vihar strengthens partnerships, reduces tensions between nations and helps address potential conflicts before they start.

“We’re trying to build this network to increase our partner building capabilities,” Jones said. “We can’t do this alone.”

By Airman Synsere Howard, 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Posted in AFSW, Air Force, Guest Post, International | Comments Off on Jolly Vihar 23 Enhances US, Hungarian Air Forces Interoperability