SIG SAUER - Never Settle

Ukraine Army Type Classifies Droid TW 12.7, New Robotic Combat Vehicle Armed with M2 MG

December 11th, 2024

The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense released the following (translated):

The Ministry of Defense codified Droid TW 12.7 — a Ukrainian robotic complex with a Browning 12.7 Machine Gun

The complex confirmed its reliability during combat tests.

Features of Droid TW 12.7:
– machine gun caliber 12.7 mm
– crawler platform for the most difficult conditions
– remote control via tablet
– works on digital communication

“In the conditions of modern warfare, technology plays a crucial role in ensuring superiority on the battlefield. The codification and admission to operation of the Ukrainian robotic complex Droid TW 12.7 is a significant step towards the introduction of innovations in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. We codify samples that become a reliable tool for our defenders, helping them to perform tasks in the most difficult conditions. Our advantage is a high-tech army capable of confronting modern challenges,” said Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine Dmytro Klymenkov.

According to DevDroid, the manufacturer, the TW 12.7 can be manufactured within 45 days at a cost of around $29,000 per unit.

Features according to DevDroid:
– High-precision target recognition using artificial intelligence
– Remote control
– The platform is capable of operating in challenging terrain and various weather conditions
– 12.7 mm Browning machine gun
– Operational range: up to 14 km
– Effective range: up to 1000 m
– Integration with Starlink and LTE

Rheinmetall and Auterion are Working Together on Drone Technology and Developing Standard Operating System for Military Industries

December 10th, 2024

Rheinmetall, a leading system supplier for defence technology and Auterion, the leading supplier of drone operating systems, will be working closely together to develop standardised software-based components for unmanned drone systems. The two companies signed an agreement, thereby establishing a long-term co-operation.

The two partners are combining their expertise in order to create a military industry standard for controlling and operating unmanned aerial, land and naval drone systems. The co-operation includes joint product development and sales activities for unmanned platforms. The resulting homogeneous operating system is expected to provide military users with a significant advantage.

As a drone manufacturer, Rheinmetall is drawing on the operational experience gained from the Luna NG and Aladin systems and incorporating it into its work with the customer. Various drone systems from the Düsseldorf-based technology group have already been in service for many years with the German Armed Forces / Bundeswehr and have been deployed in Ukraine for several months.

Dr Timo Haas, Chief Digital Officer at Rheinmetall AG, explains: “We see over two hundred different aerial unmanned systems in Ukraine. This makes military training very costly and time-consuming, and system interoperability is not guaranteed. Co-operation with Auterion and the development of a homogeneous operating system will enable the efficient and scalable deployment of unmanned systems. With our approach, there will be no need for system-dependent user training or system-specific integration into an overall system network in the future”.

Lorenz Meier, CEO of Auterion: “In the future, drones will be used in large quantities and, like computers and smartphones, they need a common operating system to make this happen. AuterionOS allows the customer to combine all drones on a common basis and to integrate different manufacturers into a common architecture. Our software stack has already been tried and tested in operation and thus enables software-defined defence”.

HOP Munitions Unleashes the Ultimate Hog Hunting Ammo: 62-Grain Solid Copper 5.56 REX

December 10th, 2024

HOP Munitions, a leader in high-performance ammunition, is thrilled to announce the launch of its 62-grain Solid Copper 5.56 REX (Rapid EXpanding) ammunition. Precision-engineered for hunters who demand maximum performance from their AR-15s, this new round sets a new standard for ethical and effective hog hunting.

At the core of this cutting-edge cartridge is a solid copper projectile designed to deliver unparalleled penetration and controlled expansion. With a muzzle velocity of 2,870 fps and an impressive 1,134 ft/lbs of energy, this ammo ensures devastating on-target results. A .300 ballistic coefficient and sectional density of .177 provide exceptional accuracy and stability, making it ideal for close-range and extended-range shots.

Whether you’re clearing feral hogs from farmland or chasing a trophy boar in rugged terrain, the 5.56 REX gives you the edge you need. This round is engineered to deliver consistent, lethal performance while maintaining the precision hunters expect from HOP Munitions products.

Key Features of the 5.56 62-Grain Solid Copper REX

Caliber: 5.56 NATO

Grain Weight: 62

Bullet Type: Solid Copper REX (Rapid EXpanding)

Muzzle Velocity: 2,870 fps

Muzzle Energy: 1,134 ft/lbs

Ballistic Coefficient: .300

Sectional Density: .177

Packaging: Convenient 50-round boxes

Designed with hunters in mind, this ammo’s solid copper construction ensures lead-free compliance, making it environmentally friendly without sacrificing power or performance. Its rapid-expansion design minimizes over-penetration, ensuring a clean, ethical kill with every shot.

Optimized for AR-15 Platforms

Perfectly tuned for AR-15 rifles, the 5.56 REX offers smooth cycling and reliable feeding. Its lightweight 62-grain bullet delivers the flat trajectory needed for fast follow-ups and accurate shots, even under challenging conditions.

Now Available

The 5.56 62-grain Solid Copper REX is now available in 50-round boxes. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or preparing for your first hog hunt, this round ensures you have the ultimate tool for success.

2025 SFC Earl S. Ellis Memorial Scholarship Applications Open 13 December

December 10th, 2024

The Army Sniper Association is proud to announce the 2025 SFC Earl S. Ellis Memorial Scholarship applications begin December 16, 2024. To qualify, submitted applications require a postmark or e-mail receipt date no later than February 15, 2025. Awardees are announced via e-mail March 1, 2025. A scholarship awards ceremony is conducted in conjunction with the International Sniper Competition awards banquet at Columbus, GA. 10 April 2025, all scholarship awardees are encouraged to attend. Good luck to all who apply.

armysniperassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-ASA-Scholarship-Notification

DEEPRobotics’ Lynx – The Wheeled Quadrupred

December 10th, 2024

Chinese company DEEPRobotics specializes in Quadraped robots. Recently, they invoked a wheeled version called the Lynx.

The Lynx weighs 30 kg and stands 80cm high with a step height of 22 cm. It will carry a 12 kg payload and move at 5 m/s for 3 hours. It is equipped with a 1080P wide-angle EO camera.

Below is a promotional video of it in action and definitely worth a watch for its out of the box thinking. Robots can take any form and aren’t constrained by natural selection. If we can dream it, we can build it.

Team O’Neil’s Tactical Driving Tuesday – NVG Driving

December 10th, 2024

In this week’s tip, Instructor Wyatt talks about what sets Team O’Neil’s training apart from others, Night Vision driving.

If you’re in need of in-person training like this, sign up for the Team O’Neil Tactical Driving Course at their facility in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This five-day course includes driving under NODS and is available to military and other government agencies as well as civilians.

The Army Green Service Uniform Now Available At Flying Cross

December 10th, 2024

The AGSU reflects the iconic ‘Pinks and Greens’ uniform worn by America’s ‘Greatest Generation’ during World War II, and Flying Cross has worked closely with the U.S. Army to manufacture a solution that delivers the historically authentic look, with the professional, functional features required by the modern Soldier.

We are excited to announce that The Army Green Service Uniforms are now available for purchase at FlyingCross.com. Designed with precision and crafted with the highest quality materials, these uniforms embody the values of service, pride, and professionalism that define our armed forces. Experience the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and style that ensures you look your best, whether on duty or at formal events.

Order Your Army Green Service Uniform Today!

Chief of Naval Operations Highlights Robotic and Autonomous Systems with Visit to Orca Extra Large Unmanned Undersea Vehicle

December 10th, 2024

06 December 2024

LONG BEACH, Calif. – Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Lisa Franchetti toured Boeing’s Orca Extra Large Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (XLUUV) manufacturing facility, met with Boeing contractors and Sailors assigned to Unmanned Undersea Vehicles Squadron (UUVRON) 3, and gave remarks about the importance of having robotic multi-mission submersibles in the fleet, Dec 6.

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Lisa Franchetti toured Boeing’s Orca Extra Large Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (XLUUV) manufacturing facility, met with Boeing contractors and Sailors assigned to Unmanned Undersea Vehicles Squadron (UUVRON) 3, and gave remarks about the importance of having robotic multi-mission submersibles in the fleet, Dec 6.

The Orca XLUUV is one of several unmanned maritime systems programs that the Navy is developing and acquiring to expand to the hybrid Fleet.

“Getting Orca into the hands of our warfighters will help us get after my project 33 targets because she is another player – with some really unique capabilities – on the field in America’s Warfighting Navy,” said Franchetti. “Orca, and other platforms like her, are an important step forward as we drive towards our future hybrid fleet, which is going be composed of manned and unmanned platforms. It’s a hybrid fleet that we know we will need to maintain our warfighting advantage.”

Orca and other autonomous systems represent a leap forward in naval warfare, providing unmatched operational advantages by extending reach, reducing risks to personnel, and enhancing strategic capabilities.

“I have no doubt that Orca will contribute to our future lethality, to our warfighting effectiveness, and further bolster our ability to deter any potential adversaries,” said Franchetti. “What we learn from this capability will inform the development of future robotic and autonomous systems, and ultimately provide a lot of agility, flexibility and new options to our nation’s decision makers, so that if deterrence fails, we’re ready to fight and win decisively.”

As reflected in CNO’s Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy “operationalizing robotic and autonomous systems: move proven systems into the hands of the warfighters”, is one of seven project 33 targets that will help the Navy permanently raise the baseline level of readiness for the possibility of war with the People’s Republic of China by 2027.

Construction of XLE-1 is complete, and the vehicle is at Marina Shipyard for contractor pierside and at-sea testing. Delivery of XLE-1 to the Navy is expected in early 2025, with follow-on Navy Developmental and Operational Testing (DT/OT) through the third quarter of fiscal year 2025. After completion of Developmental and Operational Testing, UUVRON 3 will complete crew certification, and XLE-1 will be ready for deployment.

– US Navy Public Affairs

Photos by Chief Mass Communication Specialist William Spears