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MKS Instruments Introduces Ophir IR Optics Assembly, Support, and Services in India

March 19th, 2024

Delhi, India – March 12, 2024 – MKS Instruments, Inc. (Nasdaq: MKSI), a global provider of technologies that transform our world, announced today new assembly, support, and service capabilities for Ophir® cutting-edge infrared (IR) optics products in India. These new capabilities align seamlessly with the Indian Government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ “Make in India” initiative, demonstrating MKS’ commitment to India’s national security industry. MKS will leverage its strong local presence in India by adding Ophir IR lens assembly, support and service capabilities to its existing Atotech facilities.

“The combination of Atotech India’s well-established operations, technical capabilities, and highly qualified team with Ophir’s innovative strength and industry-leading IR optical solutions will enable us to strengthen the longstanding relations we have with the Indian national security sector,” said Kobi Lasri, General Manager of Ophir Optics Group. “This partnership marks another significant milestone in our strategic vision to deepen our collaboration with the Government of India and bolster local assembly, support, and service capabilities, supporting the self-reliance vision of the Indian government. Through these new capabilities in India, MKS reaffirms its commitment and dedication to continuous improvement, seeking to deliver products with unparalleled performance, reliability, and local support for customers worldwide.”

Additional information can be found at www.mks.com

Posted in Industry, International, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on MKS Instruments Introduces Ophir IR Optics Assembly, Support, and Services in India

Safariland Partners with Noveske Rifleworks on Liberator HP Collab

March 19th, 2024

JACKSONVILLE, Florida – Safariland®, a brand of The Safariland Group®, a leading global provider of safety products designed for the public safety, military, professional and outdoor markets and one of Cadre Holdings, Inc.’s (NYSE: CDRE) (“Cadre”) key brands, announces an exclusive collaboration with Noveske Rifleworks. Launching the Liberator® HP headset in Noveske’s signature N81 camo brings together two industry-leading brands, offering customers a limited-edition product that combines cutting-edge technology with a unique design.

Known for its exceptional quality and innovation, Noveske Rifleworks brings expertise and style to the table, elevating the Liberator HP look and feel. The N81 camo print, designed and cerakoted in-house by Noveske, is meticulously applied to the Liberator HP earcups, striking a perfect balance between visual appeal and high-performance functionality.

The Liberator HP headset represents the next generation in electronic hearing protection. Designed to withstand the rigors of any environment, this cutting-edge headset offers enhanced hearing protection, particularly in situations involving impulse gunfire noise and high-decibel, constant background audio. Wearers can rest assured knowing they are fully protected, while advanced sound localization technology allows for maximum situational awareness and sound detection.

“This Liberator HP exclusive marks the beginning of our collaboration with Noveske,” said Timothy Drnec, VP of Marketing for Safariland. “By combining our expertise in protective equipment with Noveske’s renowned craftsmanship, we are able to offer our customers a modern take on range gear.”

“Noveske is about building a community founded on the mutual respect of creating high quality product. We’re thrilled to work alongside Safariland in producing a limited run of Liberator HPs as the start of a fun and collaborative partnership and we’re excited to see what comes next,” said Jeff Pool, President of Novekse Rifleworks.

With limited sets available, the Safariland Liberator HP exclusive edition with Noveske cerakote is one of this year’s hot ticket items for the range and shooting enthusiasts.

To learn more about this exciting new release and to explore Safariland’s extensive range of holsters and tactical accessories, visit Safariland.com.

Posted in Comms, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Safariland Partners with Noveske Rifleworks on Liberator HP Collab

T.REX ARMS Releases the New Ironside Hybrid Holster

March 19th, 2024

T.REX ARMS is pleased to announce the new “Ironside Hybrid Holster”, which utilizes our existing outside-the-waistband Ironside holster and converts it to a very comfortable inside-the-waistband rig with tuckable clips. The backer is made out of Alcantara and foam layers fused together to create a waterproof, sturdy, but comfortable pad enabling easy carry at the 3-4 o’clock position.

This hybrid style holster improves upon existing hybrid options, by maintaining complete Kydex coverage of the weapon for better performance and increased retention of weapon lights. It introduces a breathable, washable, rigid yet soft pad that brings all the strengths and none of the weaknesses of alternative hybrid backer materials.

The Ironside Hybrid Backer is compatible with all existing Ironside holsters and can be purchased as a standalone item. It allows users to switch from an OWB Ironside set up, which is ideal for concealment under jackets and winter wear, to an IWB system that is better suited for lighter summer wear.

Like all T.REX ARMS holsters, the Ironside and its backer are manufactured entirely in the USA: built to order in our Middle Tennessee facility, subjected to rigorous quality control procedures, and backed by a limited lifetime warranty and our world-class customer support team.

Posted in Holsters, Press Release | Comments Off on T.REX ARMS Releases the New Ironside Hybrid Holster

TacJobs – Flux Defense Seeks Manufacturing Engineer

March 19th, 2024

Applicants need to be well versed in CAD, working with short sheets, prints, control plans etc. Need to live or re-locate to Utah. Email support@fluxdefense.com.

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Warrior Protection And Readiness Coalition Hosts Successful 2024 Legislative Sumit

March 19th, 2024

Presents Sentinel Awards to U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) and U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) to Recognize Long Standing Support for the Defense Clothing and Equipment Industrial Base

MARBLEHEAD, MA (March 14, 2024) This past week, the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC) hosted its 15th annual Legislative Summit in Washington D.C., bringing together 100 industry leaders of the domestic manufacturing companies who support the uniform and equipment needs of the warfighter. During this event, the WPRC announced that Senator John Boozman and U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) have been awarded the 2024 WPRC Sentinel Award. This accolade is in recognition of their outstanding legislative work to bolster the U.S. domestic defense industrial base, which plays a crucial role in supporting U.S. servicemembers and homeland security personnel. The Sentinel Award is annually bestowed upon members of Congress who have made significant efforts to ensure the Federal government has access to high-quality, American-made helmets, body armor, uniforms, footwear, and equipment, securing the best value for taxpayers.

“Through their committee leadership, Senator Boozman and Congressman Donald Norcross have demonstrated their unwavering support for the safety and combat effectiveness of American servicemembers,” said David Costello, Executive Director of the WPRC. “Ensuring the strength and vitality of the Berry Amendment-compliant defense industrial base secures the domestic supply chain needed to provide the most effective protective clothing and equipment for warfighters and peacekeepers both at home and abroad. The WPRC is honored to recognize both Senator Boozman’s and Congressman Norcross’ commitment to this enduring effort.”

The 2024 Legislative Summit included a speaking program including U.S. Army Brigadier General Landis Maddox, Commander, DLA Troop Support; U.S.Army Colonel Tony Lindh, Project Manager, Soldier Survivability, Program Executive Office – Soldier; and representatives from the Center for Naval Analyses (CNA) who recently conducted a wargame scenario designed to better prepare and strengthen the clothing and textile industrial base. This was an opportunity for WPRC members to hear directly from Department of Defense (DoD) and executive leadership regarding the Administration’s domestic defense industrial base priorities. The WPRC continues to lead advocacy initiatives on Capitol Hill to ensure U.S. service members and Department of Homeland Security operational agencies are equipped appropriately to carry out their mission safely, with American-made gear and equipment.

This year’s WPRC legislative objectives include ongoing support for the U.S. Army’s Soldier Enhancement Program (SEP), support for Congress to require the annual update of the U.S. Army’s Rapid Fielding Initiative (RFI), and an effort to encourage Congressional support for a Defense Production Act Title III Presidential Determination for the warfighter clothing, textiles, and equipment industrial base.

About the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition and the Sentinel Award:

The WPRC Sentinel Award is the highest honor given by the coalition, awarded annually to lawmakers who have shown exceptional support for the American industry that produces advanced combat uniforms, footwear and equipment for the Armed Services and Department of Homeland Security. WPRC member companies strive every day to provide innovative, advanced solutions to ensure that our armed forces are prepared for any encounter, anywhere in the world.

Sentinel award recipient Senator John Boozman serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee. Additionally, Senator Boozman serves on the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission. Congressman Donald Norcross was selected by his peers to be Ranking Member for the House Armed Services Committee’s Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL) Subcommittee and serves on the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee.

U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) accepts the 2024 Sentinel Award presented by WPRC Board Chairman Justin Mayer, Secretary Amy Coyne, and Executive Director David Costello

U.S. Senator John Boozman (AR) accepts the 2024 Sentinel Award presented by WPRC Board Member Markin Dornan (L) and Executive Director David Costello (R)

WPRC Sentinel award recipient, U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (NJ-1) addresses WPRC members

United States Army Colonel Tony Lindh, Project Manager, Soldier Survivability, Program Executive Office Soldier, addresses WPRC members

United States Army Brigadier General Landis Maddox, Commander, DLA Troop Support, addresses WPRC members

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Tactical Tuesday: Updated! S.O.C.P. Tactical Fanny Pack

March 19th, 2024

The Vertx S.O.C.P. Tactical Fanny Pack offers a combination of style, functionality, and preparedness in a way that’s hard to find in other tactical fanny packs. More than a fashion statement, tactical belt bags are designed for individuals who prioritize readiness and efficiency. But why should a tactical waist bag be a staple in your gear?

Here are a couple of reasons:

Concealed Carry Excellence: Concealing a firearm can be tricky and uncomfortable, but the Vertx S.O.C.P. Fanny Pack simplifies the process with discreet compartments and lockable zippers. This pack offers a subtle solution to keep your firearm secure, concealed, and easily accessible whenever you need it.

Everyday Utility: Apart from firearm storage, a tactical waist bag is incredibly versatile for everyday use. It’s ideal for carrying essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, and other small items such as a flashlight, pepper spray, med kit, or radio. With multiple compartments and loops for organization, this pack ensures everything has its place, reducing clutter and enhancing accessibility.

The Vertx S.O.C.P. Tactical Fanny Pack stands out with other features like a secured hidden pocket for tools, concealable armor pocket for added protection, laser-cut attachment points, external cell phone pocket with touchscreen window, ambidextrous access with lockable zipper pulls, holster/magazine retention strap, and extended storage pockets in each wing.

Check out the recently updated S.O.C.P. Fanny Pack – now available in three new colors!

Posted in Advertiser, Guest Post, Load Carrying | 4 Comments »

1st Space Brigade’s Tactical Close Space Support is on the Move

March 19th, 2024

WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M. — Partnering with joint and coalition forces, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command’s 1st Space Brigade continues to experiment with new tactical space control technology to support the warfighter in increasingly complex and contested environments.

Soldiers with the brigade’s 18th Space Company participated in experimentation at White Sands Missile Range during Project Convergence-Capstone 4 from mid-February into early March to advance the Army space, cyber and special operations forces “Triad’s” ability to conduct space operations at the tactical edge.

Project Capstone, an experiment hosted by U.S. Army Futures Command, saw warfighters from across the U.S. military and allied countries including the Five Eyes nations – United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand – as well as France and Japan, explore the future of warfighting communications, operations and maneuver.

As part of the first phase of PC-C4, these space Soldiers experimented with a small form factor system to determine if the kit fulfilled the Army’s current demand for a ruggedized, tactical space control system.

While the brigade’s current program of record is mobile, the Army is seeking technology that allows the capability to be hand-carried by the Soldiers themselves or transported by small tactical vehicles.

“Larger space capabilities cannot effectively integrate with more expeditionary units, such as SOF,” said Capt. Noah Siegel, Triad Experimentation Team platoon leader, 18th Space Company. “Shrinking our equipment and focusing on mobility allows our Soldiers to provide space support to units of all types at or beyond the tactical edge. For warfighters on the ground, this tactical space support enables the synchronization and convergence of joint and multidomain effects to enhance lethality.”

Amid the desert scrub and sand at the base of the Organ Mountains, the 1st Space Brigade Soldiers operated the small form factor from the back seat of the utility task vehicle – driven by soldiers with the British Army Special Operations Brigade – to demonstrate how space operations crews not only support American SOF partners but integrate with friendly coalition forces.

At the tactical level, Army space capabilities, such as the small form factor, would enhance ground maneuver formations’ ability to see, sense, stimulate, strike and assess across the spectrum. Special operations forces allow space Soldiers deeper physical access into austere operating environments.

“It was great to see the similarities and differences in how space, signal, cyber, as well as U.S., U.K., and Australian SOF partners operate,” said Sgt. Jon Rizzo, 18th Space Company. “We enjoyed working with these forces and exploring where and how we can fit in.”

Though the small form factor is not an Army program of record, experimentation initiatives such as PC-C4 allow the Army to assess the suitability of certain equipment to inform future programs of record.

Data and lessons learned from the brigade’s experimentation during PC-C4 was presented at Camp Pendleton, California, to Department of Defense senior leaders, allies and partners on March 4-5.

Story by Brooke Nevins

U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command

Posted in Army, Forces Focus, Guest Post, Space | 1 Comment »

Light Hybrid Vehicles in the Portfolio: Rheinmetall Acquires Dutch Startup REEQ

March 18th, 2024

Rheinmetall has acquired the Dutch startup REEQ, thereby expanding its vehicle portfolio to include innovative light hybrid vehicles. At the beginning of March 2024, the technology group’s Dutch subsidiary Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V., which is part of the Vehicle Systems Division, acquired 100% of the shares in the Dutch start-up REEQ. Rheinmetall is thus expanding its portfolio of lightweight tactical vehicles and also taking the step towards hybrid technology with a fully electric drivetrain in a military vehicle. Both parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

With its vehicles, REEQ has developed a new generation of mobility that combines tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid) and is fully prepared for autonomy. The technology was developed and is produced in the Netherlands.

Currently, REEQ’s vehicle portfolio consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad, all three with exactly the same fully electric drive train. Through the acquisition of REEQ, Rheinmetall is able to serve the Dutch and European market in the field of light tactical mobility, both manned and unmanned, in combination with a microgrid solution. Rheinmetall’s industrial strength and the innovative power of a start-up complement each other. Within the Rheinmetall Group, REEQ retains its status as a start-up in the field of development. The further development and series production of these vehicles will also take place in the Netherlands.

With this acquisition Rheinmetall is responding to the many calls from Dutch politicians and defense leaders to contribute with industrial strength and specialization to the operational user and strengthening of the defense industry. With the development and production from the Netherlands, the strategic autonomy and the Dutch position in the field of military electrification and autonomy in the international defense industry has also been strengthened.

Located in the city of Ede, Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. is part of the Vehicle Systems Division and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH. Rheinmetall AG is one of the world’s leading technology enterprises.

REEQ is a Dutch start-up and has been in existence since 2018. In that year REEQ carried out a first innovation project regarding electromobility in the military sector on behalf of the Dutch Ministry of Defence. In later years, REEQ has developed further in this field of experience.

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