WASHINGTON – The U.S. Army is expanding its financial support for military spouses by enhancing the reimbursement program for business costs and relicensing fees. The new directive permits reimbursement of up to $1,000 for business-related expenses, in addition to the already authorized $1,000 for relicensing fees resulting from a relocation.
“Army spouses face unique challenges, especially during a relocation,” said Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen, Deputy Chief of Staff for G-9. “We owe it to them to provide any opportunity to not just have a job but build a fulfilling career.”
Spouses often face logistical and financial challenges in transferring licenses or businesses to new jurisdictions. This new directive aims to alleviate these barriers, ensure continuity in their careers and enhance the well-being and readiness of Army families.
The new policy, which builds upon previous efforts initiated in 2018, aligns with the Fiscal Year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act Public Law 117-263, which authorized expanded reimbursements, and Fiscal Year 2024 NDAA Public Law 118-31, which adjusted eligibility criteria to include those moving from active duty to the reserve component. It also includes those authorized a final move or placed on the temporary disability retired list.
Qualified relicensing costs cover exam fees, continuing education, certifications, business licenses, permits and registrations. For business owners, reimbursement is available for equipment relocation, new technology purchases, IT services and inspection fees.
Details on qualifying expenses and how to apply for reimbursement are available on the Military OneSource portal at Licensure Reimbursement PCS Moves.
By Army Public Affairs
Posted in Army, Guest Post | Comments Off on New Army Policy Expands Reimbursement for Spouse Business Costs
Lithuania takes another step towards strengthening its defence sector. The Lithuanian Minister of the Economy and Innovation, Aušrine Armonaite, has signed an agreement delineating the arrival of Rheinmetall, the German military industry giant, to Lithuania. The project has been granted the status of state importance.
“Rheinmetall establishing operations in Lithuania is a significant step towards meeting our country’s immediate defence and security needs. It will help us to ensure uninterrupted access to essential weapons and ammunition, as the products that European defence needs will be produced on Lithuanian soil. With an investment of more than EUR 180M, the new plant is also expected to create at least 150 new jobs,” Minister Armonait? said.
The site of the investment project should be announced in the upcoming weeks. The plant is expected to produce tens of thousands of rounds of ammunition per year.
“We are grateful to have been selected by Lithuania as a partner of the defence industry. We are pleased to be able to make a contribution to national sovereignty in the field of ammunition,” said Maximilian Froch, Head of Strategic Programme Organisation International at Rheinmetall AG.
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “We at Rheinmetall are very grateful for this long-term partnership with Lithuania. It confirms us once again in our claim to be one of the pillars of national and international security provision.”
To ensure Lithuania’s security, the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation has also initiated legal amendments that facilitate the development of large-scale projects. Potential investors, including Rheinmetall, will be able to benefit from these new provisions.
The amendments simplify territorial planning, land procurement, and construction procedures. This will enable manufacturers in the defence industry to launch operations in Lithuania in the shortest possible time.
These amendments were drafted in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of the Environment, and the Office of the Government. It is expected that the Lithuanian Parliament will adopt these regulations during this year’s spring session.
The ‘Green Corridor’ initiative for large-scale investment projects, developed by the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation and launched in 2021, makes it easier and quicker for investors to set up operations in Lithuania, granting their project a status of state importance and a 0% corporate tax rate for a period up to 20 years.
The Ministry of the Economy and Innovation has already signed contracts for 14 large-scale investment projects, which will create nearly 4,000 jobs and attract more than €1.25 billion in investment.
Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Partnership with Lithuania: Rheinmetall and Minister of Economy and Innovation, Auštime Armonaite, Sign Further Agreement for a New Factory
The newest addition to the brand’s Active 6 Series of eyewear
FRISCO, Texas (June 3, 2024) – Wiley X, the global pioneer and leader in premium protective eyewear, is proud to launch an exciting new frame style: The WX Sierra. This new arrival comes on the heels of a brand refresh in early 2024.
The WX Sierra will be joining the Active 6 series, alongside this year’s earlier releases, the WX Founder and WX Recon. Built thoughtfully for those who prioritize both comfort and safety, the WX Sierra is ultra-lightweight and engineered with comfort in mind. This sleek frame showcases features designed for all-day wear, ensuring you can conquer any adventure.
“The WX Sierra is our latest advancement in innovative eyewear that can provide users with utmost safety while ensuring both style and function,” said Dan Freeman, CEO and Co-Owner at Wiley X. “Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or simply looking for a reliable pair of sunglasses, the WX Sierra is a must-have.”
Dual-injected rubber temple tips and molded nose pads provide a secure, comfortable fit that won’t budge, even during the most rigorous activities. Furthermore, the built-in lens ventilation helps prevent fogging, keeping your vision clear no matter the environment.
The WX Sierra is also available in RX for customized comfort and clear vision. Like all Wiley X lenses, the WX Sierra will sport shatterproof Selenite™ 6-Base lenses for superior clarity and durability, while WX CAPTIVATE™ lens technology (available in polarized and non-polarized options) enhances the visual experience with improved clarity and color perception. Shielding user’s eyes from harmful UVA/UVB rays, these sunglasses prioritize complete eye protection.
The unique design allows for the included clear ANSI Z87.1+ side shields to be either removable or permanently attached, giving the user the flexibility to customize their protection level based on their needs. With side shields installed, the WX Sierra meets rigorous ANSI Z87.1+ safety standard.
Posted in Eyepro, Press Release | Comments Off on Wiley X Launches New Ultra Lightweight WX Sierra Frame
Company Donates $146,000 as Organization Marks 40 Years of Serving Survivors of Fallen Officers
From left: Streamlight Sales Director, Pat Lucas; Streamlight Inside Sales Manager, Angel DelliGatti; C.O.P.S Executive Director, Dianne Bernhard; Streamlight Board of Directors member, Clayton French; C.O.P.S. National President, Connie Moyer; Streamlight Sales Manager, Brett Marquardt
EAGLEVILLE, PA, June 4, 2024 – Streamlight®, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices for the law enforcement market, has renewed its sponsorship of Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) for the 25th year in a row. The company’s support helps to underwrite ongoing programs and activities for survivors of fallen officers. Streamlight’s 2024 contribution as a C.O.P.S. Guardian Sponsor totaled $146,000, including proceeds from recent sales of its ‘blue’ C.O.P.S. logoed products.
Streamlight supports C.O.P.S. by sponsoring multiple programs and svents throughout the year, culminating in this year’s National Police Weekend activities in Washington, D.C. where the company was the Presenting Sponsor at the 40th Anniversary Formal Celebration Gala on May 14. The company also is a sponsor of Law Enforcement United (L.E.U.), which helps to raise money for C.O.P.S. through Streamlight programs like “The Road to Hope” memorial bicycle ride. This year, L.E.U. is celebrating its 15th year in supporting the fallen and survivors.
“We are extremely proud to serve as a Guardian Sponsor of C.O.P.S. as it marks 40 years of supporting those who have lost loved ones in the line of duty,” said Streamlight President and Chief Executive Officer Ray Sharrah. “As a leading provider of lighting equipment for first responders, we remain steadfast in our commitment to not only provide tools to keep police safe, but also to assist C.O.P.S. in the important work it does for law enforcement. It is our honor to have served this fine organization for all these years.”
As part of its annual contribution, Streamlight earmarks $1.00 from the sale of each Blue Nano Light® for C.O.P.S. The keychain flashlight boasts a super bright white LED and a double-sided FOB that features the C.O.P.S. logo on one side and Streamlight’s logo on the other side. Streamlight also donates $2.00 from the sale of each Blue Siege® AA lantern, featuring one white and two blue LEDs, and the C.O.P.S. logo on its globe.
Today, more than 50 C.O.P.S. chapters nationwide provide resources to some 50,000 survivors, including immediate and extended families and co-workers of officers who have died in the line of duty.
Held annually since 2021, TNVC’s live vSHOTT Presentation features TNVC’s Staff as we take deep dives into night vision, thermal, and visual augmentation systems technology–and answer your questions, as well as making exciting new product annoucements available first to vSHOTT viewers and exclusive deals and giveaways, including a GRAND PRIZE of a Crazy Vic’s TNV/MOD-3B L3Harris MIL-SPEC Green Phosphor modular Night Vision Binocular System!*
vSHOTT 2024 begins TUESDAY, JUNE 4TH and runs to THURSDAY, JUNE 6THstarting at 8PM Eastern, 5PM Pacific, and runs until the questions run out, or 12AM Eastern / 9PM Pacific, with daily giveaways and discussion themes. This year’s daily themes are:
DAY 1 (Tuesday, June 4): VAS 101 — Whether you’re an experienced user or a beginner who knows nothing at all about night vision, and are just wanting to get some background knowledge, TNVC’s Visual Augmentation Systems (VAS) 101 will have something for you to learn, as our hosts Joe Halloran, TNVC Director of Training, Shane Cook, Law Enforcement and Commercial Sales Manager, and Tom Austin, Night Goggles Program Director, as well as our Emcee, Augee Kim, TNVC COO discuss the ins-and-outs of Visual Augmentation Systems, including I2 image intensification technology, thermal, lasers, equipment integration, and other basics–and not so basics of working in the dark.
DAY 2 (Wednesday, June 5): Hunting, Thermal, Consumer Night Vision Considerations — While night vision and visual augmentation systems have been a staple tool for military and even some law enforcement for decades, there’s no denying the HUGE growth of the consumer night vision market and industry in the last few years, with everyone from hunters, preppers, overlanders, and just plain enthusiasts jumping into the night vision game. Led by Tom Austin, Day 2’s discussion will discuss the various considerations and applications for hunters and outdoors enthusiasts, as well as customers that may not have the need for “military grade” gear, but are interested in night vision capabilities and products as well!
DAY 3 (Thursday, June 6): Advanced Programs — Arguably one of the most popular an interesting days of vSHOTT every year, Day 3 will once again focus on advanced programs and developments coming through the pipeline, as well as some deep-dives into some of TNVC’s newest products like the Ops-Core RAILINK system as well as more exciting new product releases. And of course, the Grand Prize Giveaway of a complete TNV/MOD-3B Green Phosphor goggle system!
vSHOTT does not require any purchase, sign-up, or registration to watch, and is offered 100% Free streaming on multiple platforms, including:
Moreover, every TNVC vSHOTT is archived for future viewing if you’re unable to tune in live!
However, while you don’t need to sign up to watch or take part in the vSHOTT presentation, you DO need to be signed up to be entered for a shot at our vSHOTTGiveaways, and to receive exclusive deals and links, so don’t forget to sign up!
Sign-Up to Enter TNVC’s vSHOTT Giveaways, as well as the first shot at exciting new product releases and exclusive deals!
*Grand prize giveaway open to valid U.S. Persons only and subject to ITAR
Founded in 2005, Tactical Night Vision Company (TNVC) is a Veteran-Owned small business which specializes in providing industry-leading visual augmentation systems, modified-COTS solutions, and systems integration as well as training, education, and life-cycle support to government and commercial customers alike.
Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on TNVC vSHOTT 2024 Starts Tonight 8PM ET / 5PM PT: New Product Launches, Giveaways, Grand Prize TNV/MOD-3B Night Vision Binocular!
The Ready Pack by Vertx® is far from your average backpack – it’s a tactical powerhouse optimized for the modern individual. Crafted with upgraded fabrics and innovative features, this pack is purpose-built to elevate your everyday carry game.
Let’s break down the features:
• The bag offers ample storage without compromising a low-profile look, with additional pockets and an expanded CCW compartment.
• The Rapid Access Pull tab offers fully customizable EDC setup.
• It’s compatible with Premier Body Armor Vertx Ready Pack Level IIIA Insert for maximum protection.
• The enhanced CCW compartment depth ensures ease of draw, while the convertible MOLLE front flap enables gear customization.
• VELCRO Brand loop all throughout the bag for unbeatable custom organization with Tactigami and other hook-and-loop accessories.
• The modular padded laptop sleeve adjusts to fit up to 15″ laptops.
• 3-D molded back panel provides uncompromising comfort and luggage pass-through for travel or shield carry access
• Adjustable padded shoulder straps, a tuckable waist strap, and multiple attachment points for versatile rigging.
• Hydration and comms routing, a light-colored interior, and bonded nylon thread enhance durability and functionality.
• The bag has a 20L capacity, with outside dimensions of 19″H x 11. 5″W x 7. 5″D and a CCW compartment of 16. 5″H x 11″W x 2″D.
Upgrade your EDC game with the ultimate everyday carry backpack, combining functionality, durability, and style. Shop the Vertx Ready Pack at: vertx.com
REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. — “No humans at first contact.” That was the goal of the APEX Lab during the Launched Effects Crew Station Working Group exercise held in April 2024.
The APEX lab — organized under the Systems, Simulation, Software, and Integration Directorate of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Aviation & Missile Center — hosted the exercise with support from mission partners Future Vertical Lift Cross-Functional team, Program Executive Office for Aviation and their program and product offices.
The laboratory welcomed seventeen Soldiers from across the U.S. Army to participate in the exercise. Pilots and crewmembers were selected from operational units to vet potential updates and additions to cockpit and cabin interfaces via government-developed, government-owned software. This enabled AvMC engineers to rapidly prototype some of the Soldiers’ recommendations in real time.
The Soldiers not only test launched effects prototypes in development at the lab, but to also influence — and possibly change — the Army doctrine that will accompany those effects in the future. The event was conducted using the Engineering Analysis Cockpit developed in support of the Utility Helicopter Program Office. Launched effects are drones that can be used in a multi-domain capacity — launching from air, ground, or sea for reconnaissance or target strike far ahead of the accompanying forces.
“All the data that comes from this is going to our PMs,” Jena Salvetti, lead human factors engineer for DEVCOM AvMC’s Aviation Crew Stations Branch, said. “It’s going to help inform requirements and it’s going to help inform a lot of the decisions made.”
As the subject matter experts on hand instructed the Soldiers — they are rewriting the rules.
“We need your help on what it’s going to look like,” FVL’s Chief Warrant Officer 4 Alex Drouin told the Soldiers. “That’s what we’re going to tackle this week. What do you, the users, think works? What doesn’t work? Because I can make a PowerPoint presentation that looks absolutely incredible and a great video, but if it doesn’t work for the users, we are going to fail.”
For Capt. Spencer Hudson, 3rd Battalion, 501st Aviation Regiment, who traveled from Fort Bliss, Texas, to participate, it was an opportunity to influence the equipment Soldiers use daily while also getting a first-hand look at how the engineers develop that technology.
“It is interesting to see the thought process of the developers,” Hudson said. “It builds trust when you have two sides that want to get to the same goal.”
Crew station working groups help ensure that technology is developed right on the first try. Long known as the tip of the spear on the battlefield, what launched effects will do for Army forces, Drouin said, is make that tip autonomous.
“The battlefield is drastically changing from the way we know it,” he said. “This is the future and this is where we are going.”
By Katie Davis Skelley, DEVCOM Aviation & Missile Center Public Affairs
Posted in Army, Aviation, Guest Post | Comments Off on Soldiers Test Launched Effects Prototypes
SAN DIEGO – 31 May 2024 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) announces that the Army National Guard (ARNG) has ordered 12 Gray Eagle 25M (GE 25M) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) paid for as part of 2023 congressional funding. The funding comes after ARNG leaders, which make up 45 percent of the U.S. Army’s combat divisions, requested GE 25Ms to make ARNG Divisions mirror the active component in being Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) capable, deployable, and better able to team with newly formed Division Artillery Brigades (DIVARTY). They will also be available to support domestic missions, such as homeland defense and disaster response, as needed.
GE 25M is a modernized model of the Gray Eagle designed to meet the U.S. Army’s needs forMDO capability for both active duty and National Guard units. GE 25M is equipped with the new EagleEye multi-mode radar and electro-optical/infrared sensors, and can host a wide range of additional kinetic and non-kinetic payloads. Equipping ARNG Divisions with organic GE 25Ms makes possible the necessary mission planning, targeting, communications, detailed coordination, and realistic training needed to employ the systems successfully in combat. GE 25M will allow ARNG Divisions to have Divisional Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA) for the first time.
“The Gray Eagle platform has a proven record of performance with over a million hours of safe operations, including automatic takeoff and landing capability,” said GA-ASI Vice President of DoD Strategic Development Patrick Shortsleeve. “The aircraft excels as an enabler for Fires, Maneuver, Network, and Intelligence operations. It is also an integral part of the Army Aviation team, working closely with manned rotary-wing systems to achieve overmatch against pacing threats.”
GE 25M flew its maiden flight on Dec. 5, 2023, following the award of an undefinitized contract award announced on Dec. 1, 2023, for the Gray Eagle 25M Production Representative Test Aircraft.
Posted in Army, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI on Contract to Build and Field First Gray Eagle 25M Unit for Army National Guard
