Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Saab Starts Construction of New Carl-Gustaf Factory in India

March 10th, 2024

Saab has today marked the start of the construction of its new Carl-Gustaf® manufacturing facility in India with a ground breaking ceremony. The factory will be located in the state of Haryana.

After receiving approval of 100% foreign direct investment, Saab has established a new company, Saab FFVO India Pvt Ltd, which will fully own the new manufacturing facility and produce the Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon.

“I am proud to start constructing our first facility outside Sweden for Carl-Gustaf, a product that has a long history with the Indian Armed Forces. We look forward to starting production of our excellent product, now engineered and made in India”, says Görgen Johansson, Senior Vice President and Head of Saab’s business area Dynamics.

“Today is an important milestone for Sweden and India. Saab’s factory will be the first foreign fully-owned defence production facility in India. It is a testament to the strong bilateral relationship between our countries,” says Håkan Jevrell, State Secretary for Foreign Trade, Sweden.

The facility is being built in the state of Haryana at the MET City at Jhajjar. The state has a strong industrial base of good potential partners and skilled employees.

Saab will partner with Indian suppliers and will fully meet the requirements of “Make in India” for the systems manufactured in the facility. At the new factory, Saab will deploy complex technologies including the latest sighting technology and advanced carbon fibre winding to manufacture Carl-Gustaf M4 for the Indian armed forces, and components which may be included in other users’ systems.

The Carl-Gustaf system has been in service with the Indian Army since 1976 and is established as the main shoulder launched weapon in the Indian Armed Forces.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on Saab Starts Construction of New Carl-Gustaf Factory in India

US Army Special Operations Museum Launches New Exhibit

March 10th, 2024

WASHINGTON — On March 14th, 2024, the U.S. Army Special Operations Museum will launch an exciting new exhibit, “Opening the Vaults” at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, formerly Fort Bragg.

Opening The Vaults: Treasures of the Fort Liberty Museums is a temporary exhibit that will present rare and never-before-seen artifacts from the Fort Liberty Museums and historical holdings.

The exhibition is a collaborative effort with the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Museum, 82d Airborne Division War Memorial Museum, U.S. Army Reserve Command History Office, and the 503d Military Police Battalion (Airborne).

ASOM, constructed in 2000, is the first U.S. Army Museum built outside the perimeters of an Army installation. Artifacts from the Fort Liberty Museum Enterprise as well as assets from the U.S. Army Center of Military History (John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Museum) will be housed together and accessible to the public, in the heart of downtown, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Jim Bartlinski, Director of the Fort Liberty Museum Enterprise, said, “we thought that this would be a good opportunity not only to showcase rare artifacts, and never before seen artifacts, that we have here at ASOM, but also to give folks who necessarily don’t know about the museums on Fort Liberty the chance to see what those museums offer.”

This exhibition tells the story of the Army Reserve, Special Forces, and the 82d Airborne Division. “So, it is a great collaborative effort for all of us.”

Historical panels were designed for each museum’s section by the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Museum. The 503d Military Police Battalion, the only airborne military police battalion in the U.S. Army provided uniformed mannequins to “guard” the vault, while drawing in visitors to the exhibit.

The exhibit will also feature a “Seek and Learn” activity geared towards interacting with children to learn about the history of the U.S. Army, developed by ASOM’s Volunteer Coordinator, Laura Monk.

ASOM Curator, Jimmie Hallis, said, “The exhibit is a first of its kind at the Fort Liberty Army Museum Enterprise.”

“Everyone (involved in the exhibition) jumped right on board with it. Up until the artifact installation dates, I really didn’t even know what the other museums would bring. The selection of artifacts run the history realm, from the Civil War to the Global War on Terror, there is something for everyone to see,” Hallis said.

To see the exhibit, visit the U.S. Army Special Operations Museum web page for location and operating hours. Go to: history.army.mil and click on the Museums tab.

Story by CPT Janeen R. Phelps

Photos by James Bartlinski

Posted in Army, Guest Post, History, Parachuting, SOF | Comments Off on US Army Special Operations Museum Launches New Exhibit

School’s in Session: Report to the Tower

March 10th, 2024

With harnesses on their hips, hardhats on their heads and rope in their hands, soldiers participating in air assault school rappelled off towers at Camp Buehring, Kuwait.

During air assault school, soldiers train on rotary wing aircraft, aircraft safety, aeromedical evacuation procedures, pathfinder operations, principles and techniques of combat assaults, rappelling techniques and sling-load operations. These trainings prepare soldiers to make use of their helicopter skills in combat.

Courtesy DoD News Service

Photos by Army SGT Vincent Levelev

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Training | Comments Off on School’s in Session: Report to the Tower

Vigilant Gear Welcomes Ben Fleming as Company President

March 9th, 2024

Ben Fleming joins Vigilant Gear, the parent company of Primary Weapons Systems and Lone Wolf Arms, as the new President. Fleming brings years of industry experience and passion for the shooting industry.

BOISE, Id. March 4, 2024 – Vigilant Gear, owner of leading manufacturers of firearms and accessories Primary Weapons Systems and Lone Wolf Arms, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Fleming as its new President.

With an extensive background in the firearms industry, Mr. Fleming is a consummate professional known for his leadership, strategic vision and commitment to excellence. His wealth of industry knowledge and experience will be invaluable in guiding Primary Weapons Systems and Lone Wolf Arms through the next phases of strategic plans.

“We are humbled to have Mr. Fleming join our team and lead our companies,” said Nate Treadaway, CEO of Vigilant Gear. “His belief in our goals and shared values aligns perfectly with our vision for the future. We are confident that under his leadership, Primary Weapons Systems and Lone Wolf Arms will continue to thrive and innovate.”

In his new role, Mr. Fleming will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the companies’ operations, including strategic planning, business development and product innovation. He will play a pivotal role in driving growth and ensuring that Primary Weapons Systems and Lone Wolf Arms remain at the forefront of the industry.

“I am honored to join the team at Vigilant Gear,” said Mr. Fleming. “I am excited to work alongside such talented individuals and contribute to the continued success of the esteemed Primary Weapons Systems and Lone Wolf Arms brands. Together, we will strive to exceed the expectations of our customers and achieve new heights of excellence.”

The teams at Primary Weapons Systems and Lone Wolf Arms welcome Mr. Fleming to the team. With his leadership and expertise, there is a bright future filled with innovation, growth and success ahead.

More information on PWS news and offerings is available at www.primaryweapons.com , and additional details on Lone Wolf Arms can be found at www.lonewolfarms.com.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Vigilant Gear Welcomes Ben Fleming as Company President

Mystery Ranch x Bullkelp Wildland Bedroll

March 9th, 2024

This Made in the USA bedroll is a collaboration between MYSTERY RANCH and Bullkelp Bedrolls.

Think of the bedroll as essentially a heavy-duty bivy bag. The Wildland Bedroll is made from two canvas materials, a 100% waterproof 10oz nylon/ polyester blend bottom and a weather resistant and windproof polyester top. Each material was chosen for its technical properties, the polyester canvas top is breathable, preventing condensation common in other sleeping systems. The nylon/ polyester blend bottom protects your sleeping system from moisture and punctures, creating a bedroll that can withstand the harshest elements.

Designed for use by fire service personnel, it will fit in the foot of the MYSTERY RANCH Monster/Flight Monster. Another great use for this would be car camping or overlanding. Yeah, Tankers might like it as well. Talk about the ultimate in overlanding.

Above is the bedroll when it’s all opened up, so obviously, the two images aren’t to scale.

It’s 8″x14.5″x8″ when rolled up and about 4 lbs (empty). When opened up, it will accept up to a 25″ sleeping pad and accommodate sleepers over 6′ tall.

It’s also designed to accomodate all styles of sleeping bags and features a 36″ head flap for additional coverage from rain/wind. Finally, there are 1″ Nylon webbing compression straps with side release buckles for storage.

Offered in any color as long as it’s Black.

www.mysteryranch.com/mystery-ranch-x-bullkelp-wildland-bedroll

Posted in Advertiser, Shelter | 1 Comment »

Saab Signs Major Contract for Carl-Gustaf with Poland

March 8th, 2024

Saab has today signed a contract with the Polish Ministry of Defence’s procurement authority for delivery of the Carl-Gustaf® M4 weapon, ammunition and training equipment. The order value corresponds to SEK 12.9 billion and the contract period is 2024-2027. The order is expected to be booked by Saab before the end of Q2 2024.

“I am proud of our close relationship with the Polish Armed Forces and that Saab can continue to strengthen Poland’s ground combat capability and national defence with our world-leading Carl-Gustaf system,” says Saab’s CEO and President Micael Johansson.

The contract is expected to be effective by the end of Q2 2024, subject to the fulfilment of certain external conditions.

Saab’s Carl-Gustaf is a man-portable, multi-role weapon system with a wide range of ammunition types, making it suitable for a variety of tasks.
Read more: www.saab.com/products/carl-gustaf.

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on Saab Signs Major Contract for Carl-Gustaf with Poland

Fix It Sticks Introduces the Most Extensive AR Toolkit Available

March 8th, 2024

Chicago, IL- Fix It Sticks, the industry innovator of modular firearms maintenance tools and torque limiters has introduced the AR Field Armorer’s Toolkit. Specifically made to service AR platform firearms, this new toolkit has an amazing assortment of the most important specialized and general use tools, bits, and a torque driver to properly set up, maintain and accessorize any AR rifle or pistol. The kit is capable enough to use on the bench, but portable enough to easily take to the range, out in the field, keep in a vehicle or ATV, etc. Like all Fix It Sticks products, the AR Field Armorer’s Toolkit was developed with input from gunsmiths, competitive shooters, law enforcement and military, and optics and accessory manufacturers.

AR Field Armorer’s Toolkit has AR platform specific tools and components such as a .223 Bolt Scraper, .308 Bolt Scraper, Castle Nut Wrench, A2 Sight Adjuster, AR-15 Extractor Tool, AR10 Extractor Tool, Pivot Pin Punches, Bolt Catch Pin Punch, and an AR Bench Block. Other premium components include the most commonly needed hex bits and punches, a brass hammerhead, cleaning brush, and a magnetic tray to prevent losing small parts and a take-down brass cleaning rod.

A Fix It Sticks Ratchet T-Handle w/Locking Hex Drive and an All-In-One Torque limiter are also included. The Ratchet T-Handle w/Locking Hex Drive works with any quarter inch hex bit, but also allows the use of tools that require a pulling motion such as the cleaning rods. The All-In-One Torque Driver is perfect for properly mounting optics, lasers, lights, etc. The AR Field Armorer’s Toolkit includes the following comprehensive tool selection:

• Ratchet T-Handle w/Locking Hex Drive

• All-in-One Torque Driver (15-65 in-lbs)

• Extension/punch holder

• 8-32 adapter

• 1/2” socket and 1/4” bit adapter set

• Set of Two Brass Cleaning Rods (accepts 8-32 threaded attachments)

• Cleaning Brush

• Steel Pick

• Bronze Scraper

• Castle Nut Wrench

• .223 Bolt Group Scraper

• .308 Bolt Group Scraper

• A2 Sight Adjuster

• Non-marring Plastic Pin Punch

• Brass Hammer Head

• AR10 Extractor Tool

• AR15 Extractor Tool

• Roll Pin Starter Punches

• (1/16”, 5/64” 3/32”, 1/8”)

• Roll Pin Punches

• (1/16”, 5/64” 3/32”, 1/8”)

• Pivot Pin Punches

• (AR10, AR15)

• Bolt Catch Pin Punch

• (With Nylon Surface Protector)

• Twenty Two 1/4” Bits (1” in length):

? Torx: T8, T10, T15, T20, T25, T27,

? Hex: 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, .050”, 1/16”, 5/64”, 3/32”, 7/64”, 1/8”, 5/32”, 3/16”, 1/4”

? Screwdriver: P1, P2, SL3/32”

• Magnetic Tray

• Bench Block

• Soft Carrying Case

The soft carrying case features molded-in bit holders designed to hold any bit / accessory with a standard 1/4″ Base (including Fix It Sticks Torque Limiters), and any 8-32 threaded component. Elastic mesh pockets hold other tools and accessories as needed.

The AR Field Armorer’s Toolkit is now available with an MSRP of $368.00.

Posted in Gadgets, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Fix It Sticks Introduces the Most Extensive AR Toolkit Available

Registration Open for SOF Week 2024 in Tampa

March 8th, 2024

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. – U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) and the Global Special Operations Forces (SOF) Foundation (GSOF) will co-host SOF Week in Tampa, FL, 6-10 May.

SOF Week is an annual conference for the international SOF community to learn, connect, and honor its members – it is expected to draw more than 15,000 attendees.

Key highlights of SOF Week 2024 include:

– An expanded exhibition hall, organized by USSOCOM Program Executive Office (PEO) areas

– Extensive programming, to include senior leader keynote speakers, professional development seminars, industry engagements, networking opportunities, and non-profit interests.

– Live Capabilities Demonstration

– USSOCOM Annual Awards Ceremony and Dinner

– “SOF Week Campus” in downtown Tampa, around the Tampa Convention Center

– Invitations for official representatives sent to approximately 100 U.S. partner nations

“We are extremely excited to convene the community at SOF Week 2024. This convention for U.S. and International SOF will include a diverse slate of programs, to include professional development sessions, interactive discussions about the future of SOF, and an up-close view of some of the best tech available to our warfighters,” said Stuart Bradin, President and CEO, GSOF. “We look forward to working with USSOCOM to make SOF Week 2024 an impactful event.”

At SOF Week, industry partners and exhibitors will hear from USSOCOM’s Acquisition Executive on command priorities and requirements, as well as identify emergent technologies and capabilities critical to SOF.

“SOCOM is bringing the globally distributed SOF community to Tampa for industry collaboration, professional development and networking,” said SOCOM Acquisition Executive Melissa Johnson. “The industry conference has attracted more than 600 exhibitors this year, proving the indispensable role that our industry partners play in the SOF network.”

The exhibition hall is organized by USSOCOM Program Executive Office (PEO) and Directorate areas of focus (Information Systems, Science and Technology, SOF Digital Applications, Special Air Warfare, Maritime, SOF Warrior, Services and SOF Support Activity) to facilitate meaningful interactions.

Other opportunities such as one-to-one meetings, small group roundtables, question-and-answer sessions, and networking opportunities are integral to the SOF Week agenda, providing ample opportunity for industry to government conversations.

“The value proposition of the week is to provide industry and government with meaningful opportunities to share ideas, provide updates, and discuss solutions to hard problems within the international SOF community,” said Johnson.

Registration is now open and required for all SOF Week participants. For more information, visit www.sofweek.org/attend/registration.

Posted in GSOF, SOF Week | Comments Off on Registration Open for SOF Week 2024 in Tampa