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Phokus Research to Release New Version of their Popular Hoplite NVG Accessory

January 23rd, 2024

San Diego, CA- Phokus Research, known for its life-saving innovations and logistics, is releasing an updated version of their Hoplite NVG Accessory that features an innovative Aperture Wheel. The new Aperture Wheel quickly changes the aperture of your Night Vision Goggles (NVG’s) for improved clarity while also eliminating the need to refocus your objective lens.

The Hoplite Gen 2’s Aperture Wheel allows the operator to quickly change the aperture size from 18 inches to infinity, which greatly improves the visual acuity from 20/200 to 20/20. The Hoplite Gen 2 is specifically designed to replace your NVG’s existing dust cover and sacrificial lens to protect your front objective from scratches and other expensive damage. This helps eliminate any downtime and operational failures. The Hoplite Gen 2 fits on most NVG’s and requires minimal effort to install. The Hoplite Gen 2 is made in the U.S.A. from lightweight and durable materials.

At Phokus, our mission for over 15 years has been to serve America and its allies with innovative, high-quality solutions. We are dedicated to excellence in three core segments: Products, Logistics, and Integrations. For further insights into Phokus Research, please visit www.phokusresearch.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Optics, Press Release | 4 Comments »

Galvion PDxT Integrated Helmet System: Accelerated Iterative Design & Direct User Collaboration

January 23rd, 2024

Understanding the operational needs of diverse end-user groups and developing unique solutions for specific customer requirements are critical to overall industry advancements. This case study showcases Galvion’s commitment to user-centric design, illustrating how a specific solution meets the needs of the operational challenges.

Galvion’s Integrated Helmet System (IHS) is a customized solution to meet the unique operational requirements of the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC). Developed over multiple years under the scope of an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) with Marine Corps Systems Command (MCSC), Galvion collaborated closely with Marines to incorporate real-time feedback throughout the iterative development cycle, resulting in a purpose-built helmet system that provides an integrated head protection platform for the Marines.

Galvion’s IHS is built on the foundation of its PDxT™ helmet, combining an ACH front shape for ease-of-integration with existing accessories and a ridged-back design that provides structural stability and additional coverage. Galvion designed, built and tested prototypes demonstrating technical capabilities and integration with current USMC equipment including communication devices and visual augmentation systems, and has delivered over 1000 systems across two configurations to meet the Marine Corps requirements.

– ‘Block 0’ Baseline System: PDxT™ helmet featuring NVD shroud with stabilization bumpers, IHS rails with NVG clips and O2 attachments, NVG bungees, External Loop Pattern, Battery Retention Straps, the latest APEX™ liner system, and a customized helmet cover with cable management.

– ‘Block 1’ Integrated System: built off Block 0, with the addition of the E.D.G™ scalable power pack, single and dual cables to power SBNVG & SBNVG with E-Coti, Integrated Strobe, Task Light and optional HED.

The development of this helmet system marks a critical step forward in military head system equipment integration.

Evolution through Iterative Development

The development process for this system highlights the Marine Corps Systems Command’s commitment to engaging with industry in order to find the best solution for Marines. The MCSC organized multiple Limited User Evaluations (LUE) and Ballistic Testing events and supported a dozen additional Galvion internal LUE sessions. This direct collaboration is a fundamental pillar of Galvion’s design approach: using rapid prototyping capabilities in conjunction with direct USMC input to foster a fast-paced design-build-assess cycle. This mechanism ensured the system’s maturation responded directly to specific operational needs, resulting in innovative features and upgrades.

One of the critical priorities discovered during feedback sessions was the need for superior stability. Marines voiced a willingness to trade comfort for stability and effectiveness, scoring NVG stability as essential. Galvion’s Engineering and Human Factors teams used an iterative design process to adjust Galvion’s APEX suspension & retention system in order to ensure unmatched stability without compromising comfort, including a more robust fitband dial for easy adjustment even when wearing gloves, an improved harness camlock for quick adjustment, and a re-designed nape pad.

Galvion’s commitment to cultivating a close relationship with end-users and maintaining a continuous feedback loop instilled a sense of ownership amongst USMC users over the final product. Kevin Gonzalez, Senior Business Development Manager, and a former Marine, acknowledged this, stating, “Many leaders and end-users throughout the IHS evaluation process directly stated how they have witnessed Galvion’s dedication and desire to provide the best possible system to the men and women of the USMC. This is a reflection of listening to the end-user and rapidly implementing changes that enhance their mobility, survivability, and lethality on the battlefield.”

The spiral improvements made through intensive user feedback cycles benefit end-users beyond the Marines. Galvion will be releasing updates to its APEX™ liner driven by the USMC trials. The E.D.G™ (Energy Data Grid) scalable power system will be available for Galvion’s Batlskin Caiman® helmet, introducing the transition from ‘helmet’ to ‘integrated helmet system’ to a wider global customer base.

Galvion’s USMC PDxT™ head systems and Caiman® with E.D.G™ system will be on display at Shot Show 2024 – Booth #32003

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets, Press Release, USMC | Comments Off on Galvion PDxT Integrated Helmet System: Accelerated Iterative Design & Direct User Collaboration

Army’s First Long Range Fires Battalion Activates Second Mid-Range Capability Battery

January 23rd, 2024

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. — The 5th Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery Regiment, the Army’s first Long Range Fires Battalion, conducted a ceremony on January 11, 2024, at the base to activate the second mid-range capability battery in support of multi-domain operations.

“The activation of Delta Battery, 5-3 FA expands our Long Range Fires Battalion capacity to support our Joint Indo-Pacific Mission — providing a credible, land-based maritime strike capability. Elements of this battery are already projected to operate in the Pacific later this year, a testament to our Army’s continuous transformation priority,” said Brig. Gen. Bernard Harrington, commander of the 1st Multi-Domain Task Force.

During the ceremony, the command shared the unique history of the unit and outlined a vision for what the activation means for the future of multi-domain operations.

“I always like to refer to the crest up here, the distinguished unit insignia, and one of the things you see on there is the dragon symbol. This is one of the few units in the Army today — and really across the joint force — that’s got credit for a campaign on mainland China. And so that is not a reminder for us to try to get back into China. That’s a reminder that we never want to go there again,” said Lt. Col. Benjamin Blane, commander of 5th Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery Regiment, underscoring the importance of the battalion’s mission to enable integrated deterrence in the Pacific.

“So ultimately, we strive to deter the next fight. But if this is unsuccessful, I know that this unit stands ready to complete its mission of providing counter maritime capability in the Pacific,” said Blane.

The new battery command team for the unit is Capt. Michael J. Geissler and 1st Sgt. Jeremiah O. Bosley.

“Throughout this year, this battery will face the challenges that come with forming a combat credible force in the Pacific with a new unit and a new weapon system. We will overcome and succeed through each of these challenges together to help us prepare for the greater challenges ahead,” said Geissler.

The MRC uses the Navy’s SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles as part of the initial prototype. The system will incorporate future missile capabilities as they become available, expanding the effectiveness of mid-range capabilities.

The 1st Multi-Domain Task Force is an Indo-Pacific assigned, theater-level unit. Multi-domain task forces are maneuver elements that synchronize long-range precision fires and effects in all domains to neutralize adversary anti-access and area denial networks.

Story by CPT Ryan DeBooy

Photos by Caitlyn Davies and SPC Michael Lopez

Posted in Army, Forces Focus, Guest Post | Comments Off on Army’s First Long Range Fires Battalion Activates Second Mid-Range Capability Battery

The 2024 SHOT Show Kickoff Party is Tonight!

January 22nd, 2024

You can still get your tickets. Additionally, the online charity auction to benefit SOC-F is still in full swing.

qtego.us/qlink/socf

Posted in Advertiser, Charity, Fundraising, SHOT Show | Comments Off on The 2024 SHOT Show Kickoff Party is Tonight!

Saab Receives Order from Sweden for Mobile Short-Range Air Defence

January 22nd, 2024

Saab has received an order for its Mobile Short Range Air Defence (MSHORAD) solution from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV). The contract period is 2024-2026 and the order value is approximately SEK 300 million. Saab booked the order in the fourth quarter 2023.

FMV and the Swedish Armed Forces will use the acquired solution for two configurations, both integrated on the BvS10 armoured vehicle, to further define Sweden’s future mobile air defence requirements.

“We are proud that our Swedish customer has chosen to use Saab’s mobile short range air defence solution for this purpose. Our advanced solution is truly mobile, providing crucial protection for forces on the battlefield,” says Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s business area Dynamics.

Saab’s MSHORAD is a vehicle-integrated solution that can identify, counter and neutralise air threats, including UAVs and armoured helicopters, quickly and effectively. The system consists of a mobile radar unit, based on the Giraffe 1X radar and a mobile firing unit, based on RBS 70 NG, all connected with Saab’s ground-based air defence command and control solution, GBAD C2.

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, weapons | Comments Off on Saab Receives Order from Sweden for Mobile Short-Range Air Defence

More Information on the Ohio Ordnance Works .338 NM Beltfed: The REAPR

January 22nd, 2024

Ohio Ordnance Works has released additional details on their new Recoil Enhanced Automatic Rifle (REAPR), a lightweight beltfed medium machine gun chambered in .338 Norma Mag but swappable to 7.62 NATO.

The REAPR weighs 26.8 lbs and has an overall length of 51.7″ with stock collapsed and 54.5″ with the stock extended. However, the stock can also be folded and in that case, it’s just 44.25″ in length. It can be configured for right or left hand feed and features a patented sliding feed tray and cover which means you can use optics with a larger footprint.

The operating system is a roller delayed mechanism and the 24.5″ barrel can be quickly changed without the need to depress a button or lever.

Above and below, you can see how it can be carried in a backpack and quickly configured for firing.

Developed initially to answer a United States Special Operations Command requirement for a Lightweight Medium Machine Gun, it will compete with True Velocity and SIG SAUER in the next few months. The Marine Corps is also interested in the capability and the US Army and several NATO countries are monitoring the program.

Posted in Admin | 16 Comments »

SIG SAUER Opens Registration for Florida ROSE Retreat

January 22nd, 2024

NEWINGTON, N.H., (January 22, 2024) – It’s time to experience the extraordinary; registration is now open for the ROSE Retreat in Boca Raton, Florida, April 24-27, 2024.

The ROSE Retreat, hosted by SIG SAUER, is the industry’s only luxury, all-inclusive event that brings women together into the heart of a community for shared experiences through a guided journey of personal safety with nine-time World Champion, Team SIG professional shooter, and ROSE visionary Lena Miculek.

“At the ROSE Retreat you will experience a supportive community, a comfortable atmosphere, a commitment to learn, and the indulgence in luxury for yourself,” began Lena Miculek, Team SIG Professional Shooter. “The journey into firearms ownership and use is personal and overwhelming. At the ROSE Retreat you will gain the understanding and the confidence to take you from where you are right now, to the next step of your journey with a group of women that share the same goal.”

A team of women at SIG SAUER have carefully curated the ultimate resort experience; from the time guests arrive at the luxury 5-Star Boca Raton Resort, every detail of the journey is carefully planned including accommodations, entertainment, dining, transportation, firearms, and ammunition. ROSE Retreat attendees will learn directly from Lena and participate in range time with skill building exercises to gain confidence and sharpen their firearms handling skills. The curriculum also includes a series of lifestyle sessions and focus groups.

The Boca Raton Resort is a 5-Star Luxury Resort situated on 200 acres in southern Florida with a sweeping waterfront location, lush gardens, a world class spa, unparalleled world-class cuisine, decadent high-end amenities at every turn, and more.

“You will learn, you will grow, you will inspire and you will be inspired, under the sun and in the calm and comfort of this beautiful Florida resort at the ROSE Retreat. I can’t wait to welcome our guests to Boca,” concluded Miculek.

To register or learn more about ROSE Retreat Boca Raton in Boca Raton, Florida on April 24-27, 2024 visit sigsauer.com/rose.

Posted in Advertiser, For the Ladies, Press Release, Training | Comments Off on SIG SAUER Opens Registration for Florida ROSE Retreat

See the New Eberlestock EMOD System at SHOT Show

January 22nd, 2024

Since the early years of the Global War on Terror, Eberlestock has innovated via proprietary design concepts gleaned from the alpine hunting world and global battle spaces. Inspired to provide leading solutions for the extreme demands of the operator, we adapted our Modular Hunting System to fulfill the needs of the military by creating our Mission EMOD System.

Check out the New Mission EMOD Systems at the 2024 SHOT Show / U.S. Tactical Supply Booth # 75426 & Eberlestock Booth # 73017

Both booths are located in the Caesars Forum.

Posted in Advertiser, Packs, Press Release, SHOT Show | Comments Off on See the New Eberlestock EMOD System at SHOT Show