Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

A Glimpse Into the Future of Warfare

December 23rd, 2023

The world’s first hybrid electric jet aircraft, drones that fit in the palm of your hand and driverless vehicles were just some of latest equipment with new technology put to the test on the Army Warfighting Experiment (AWE) 2023.

AWE has been the Army’s flagship innovation experimentation programme for the past six years, forging relationships with industry to identify technology that could be used in future warfare.

The focus of this year’s AWE was to identify current and emerging technologies that could provide solutions to the challenges faced by soldiers in urban warfare.

Over 40 systems from 35 suppliers; two thirds of which are from British industry, were tested and assessed by the Army’s Experimentation Battalion, 2nd Battalion The Royal Yorkshire Regiment, during four weeks of combat trials on Salisbury Plain.

They were joined on the experiment by US, Dutch, French, German, Spanish and Italian troops, as well as observers from Canada, Australia, KSA and Turkey.

“We are looking towards the future battlespace and looking at lessons learned from countries like Ukraine. It’s important to learn the lessons from those conflicts and stay up-to-date and get ahead of the curve. This kit will help us do that or, at the very least, enable us to stay on par with a future enemy.”

PRIVATE DANIEL GONZALEZ

Among the products being tested was the Hydra 400 – the world’s first hybrid heavy lift drone, which is powered by eight electric motors and four jet engines with a maximum lift of 400kg. The jets take the weight of the cargo, and the rotors look after the navigation and flight symmetry.

The next generation drone can be assembled and ready for flight in six minutes and can carry the Brimstone missile that can engage a wide range of targets including fast moving vehicles and vessels at sea.

The results from the experiment will generate evidence to inform future investment decisions and drive the thinking on design and training decisions, ensuring the Army has the best solutions to meet the demands of modern warfare.

Private Daniel Gonzalez said: “We’ve been trialling everything from software to unmanned vehicles, and from ladders to an electric wheelbarrow that can be used to evacuate casualties or to carry kit.”

“You can see exactly where a lot of the kit slots into the battlespace. Some of the kit less so as it is still in development, and some is not fit for purpose.”

“We are looking towards the future battlespace and looking at lessons learned from countries like Ukraine. It’s important to learn the lessons from those conflicts and stay up-to-date and get ahead of the curve. This kit will help us do that or, at the very least, enable us to stay on par with a future enemy.”

“Our job role is incredibly exciting because we get to see the latest kit available first.”

The next generation of lightweight Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) were tested, including the Black Hornet 4. Small enough to fly into buildings and with a flying time of more than 30-minutes, it can provide situational awareness without putting lives at risk.

Private Gonzalez said: “We can send the Black Hornet 4 and similar drones through an open window to look inside a building, find out its layout and see who’s in there. That info can then be used to aid troops’ entry and approach once inside. With this information the survivability of soldiers is increased.”

“On the AWE we feedback directly to the defence industry whether the product is easy to set up and use and how feasible it is to use in a real-life situation. On past exercises we have given feedback and seen the results, whether it’s a software update or even entirely new hardware and when we see that, it makes it really worth it.”

The soldiers were also testing new software that could be added to existing kit to improve performance. This included Instant Connect Enterprise (ICE) software that, when added to existing headphones and software, automatically translated the sender’s language into the language of the receiver. This enabled easier and quicker communication between British and international troops.

Private Matthew Perkins said: “The translation works with hardly any delay and network interference. The idea is there, and it does work. The main issue is the delay and in a battle a lot of things can happen. Given a few tweaks to make it smoother, I would use it.”

Watch the video here.

Colonel Toby Till, Commander of the UK’s Experimentation Trials Group said: “This is the third iteration in the AWE urban focused series, held in close collaboration with industry, and is designed to make the Army more lethal.

“The driving force is the Land Operating Concept. It can be likened to the North Star for the Army and demonstrates how we are going to fight differently in the future and the capabilities we will need to do so.”

“Our collaboration with industry on this event is key – we couldn’t do without them. We are seeing different industries collaborating who wouldn’t normally do so, and military advice being provided to both of them.”

The evidence from the AWE will inform the Army and Defence as to the capabilities which should receive investment in order that the Army may become more lethally effective and remain competitive on the global stage.

Story published by British Army

All photos MOD Crown Copyright

Posted in Guest Post, International, UAS | Comments Off on A Glimpse Into the Future of Warfare

Latest Gear-Setup Advancements for Sniper and Long-Range Reconnaissance Missions Spotlighted in New Video from Lindnerhof

December 23rd, 2023

LENGGRIES, GERMANY (21 December 2023)—Lindnerhof-Taktik today released a video that offers an in-depth look at the ways sniper and reconnaissance gear setups have evolved over the past two decades.

Hosted by former special-operations professionals Jakob Kolbeck (now the CEO of Lindnerhof) and Björn Herbert (the brand’s international technical products sales manager), the video traces the transformation of these types of gear setups from traditional smock-style outfits to cutting-edge configurations for modern operational needs.

Throughout the video, Kolbeck and Herbert draw from their own real-life experiences to underscore the importance of professionals opting for dynamic gear setups that align with mission requirements and the threat levels likely to be encountered during the course of those operations.

“There has been a shift in perceptions as to not only what to carry but also how to carry,”

Kolbeck indicated. “No longer is it seen as viable for snipers to stuff everything they need into their jackets. Now the accepted practice is to take a fully modular approach to carrying.” Modularity facilitates streamlining, and this, according to Herbert, affords operators greater versatility as well as mobility.

Presented in the video are gear configurations employing micro-rig and chest-rig systems chosen for their ability to optimise the balance between protection and agility for heavy and streamlined loadouts alike. “Both of the showcased chest-rig setups support increased firepower and adaptability by allowing operators to, for example, add various pouches,” said Herbert. “Their real-world effectiveness is captured in the video when we put them to the test with live-fire drills conducted on a shooting range.”

Brimming with lighthearted moments, this informative video delivers “a unique glimpse into the thought-process behind the creation of gear engineered to meet the demands of modern snipers and reconnaissance operators,” Kolbeck promised.

Watch the full episode HERE.

Posted in Media, Press Release | Comments Off on Latest Gear-Setup Advancements for Sniper and Long-Range Reconnaissance Missions Spotlighted in New Video from Lindnerhof

Ivy Soldiers Test Knowledge, Strength and Determination During E3B qualification

December 23rd, 2023

FORT CARSON, Colo. — For an entire month, Ivy Soldiers prepare, practice and perfect more than 40 tasks in order to successfully execute a five-day evaluation. Upon sufficing the tasks, Soldiers are able to earn one of three Army-sponsored badges: the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Expert Soldier Badge and the Expert Field Medical Badge.

1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, recently hosted the three badge evaluations, known as E3B, at Fort Carson from December 4-8, 2023.

“This is a great opportunity for Soldiers to hone and sharpen all of their skills,” said Sgt. 1st Class Julian Pacheco, E3B lane noncommissioned officer in charge assigned to 1st SBCT, 4th Inf. Div. “Whether you get it or not, there is a positive outcome out of this. Soldiers get an opportunity to come out here and train.”

Each testing lane evaluated is a skill level 10, or entry level, task. Pacheco says the badge helps a Soldier’s career progression regardless of their occupational specialty, however, it is no easy feat.

“There is a very high rate of attrition because it’s very methodical and procedural,” said Pacheco. “It asks a lot of the Soldiers throughout the week in order to get their GOs.”

To put the attrition into perspective, 1,100 hundred Soldiers submitted a packet for E3B. By day 3 of the testing, 252 remained in the running for one of the three badges.

Pfc. Angelina Shabelina, a cavalry scout assigned to 2nd battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st SBCT, 4th Inf. Div., felt added pressure to her participation as she aspired to gain her ESB.

“I am nervous about earning my ESB because I am the only female from the battalion who is testing for the ESB,” Shabelina said. “It’s a lot of pressure and work.”

Shabelina says there is a lot of preparation behind E3B testing, which consists of events ranging from land navigation to weapon familiarity. The first event started with the expert physical fitness assessment and then moved onto land navigation.

However, the testing doesn’t end there. Throughout the week, Soldiers must pass 10 different stations that tested their knowledge of tactical combat casualty care, weapons functions checks and basic knowledge of different weapon systems, patrolling and tasks associated specifically to the badge they were testing for.

For example, the EFMB conducts three testing lanes with a varying number of evaluated skills. These lanes test the practical ability and keen eyes of candidates while performing evacuation and warrior skills tasks.

“EFMB is a test of a candidate’s attention to detail,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jonathan Bland, flight paramedic, 2nd Battalion, 4th General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div. “All of the grade sheets and standards are published and that is really where the rubber meets the road.”

Soldiers are graded on each task to a strict standard. Participants are eliminated if they receive two no-go’s on a task. Soldiers who complete all the tasks perfectly are recognized as earning their “True Blue” for EIB, “Perfect Edge” for ESB and “No Blood” for those who earned their EFMBs with perfect scores.

Despite a plethora of rigor during the first few days of competition, the remaining Soldiers enter the final event, a 12-mile road march completed within three-hours. After crossing the finish line, Soldiers must disassemble and reassemble their weapon within five minutes.

“If you feel like you are losing yourself when you’re training up, you get everything right, you are in line to test out, and your mind goes completely blank, try to remember the Soldiers who are motivating you,” Shabelina said. “For me it’s my first sergeant and my team leader.”

In the end, 172 out of 924 Soldiers earned one of the E3B awards. Ivy Division alumni were able to pin the respective badges onto the recipients during the award ceremony at the conclusion of the final event.

Story by SPC Jason Klaer

Photos by PVT Cecilia Ochoa and SPC Mark Bowman

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Profession of Arms | Comments Off on Ivy Soldiers Test Knowledge, Strength and Determination During E3B qualification

Capacity Expansion: Rheinmetall Builds First Lynx Infantry Fighting Vehicle for Hungary in Hungary

December 22nd, 2023

Rheinmetall continues to expand Europe’s armoured vehicle production capacity. Following the opening of the Group’s production, development and test facility for armoured fighting vehicles in Zalaegerszeg, the first Lynx infantry fighting vehicle to be built in-country in Hungary has now rolled off the assembly line. It is currently undergoing commissioning.

In mid 2024, following comprehensive function, performance and quality inspections in Zalaegerszeg, the first Hungarian-built Lynx will be transferred to the Hungarian armed forces.
“Rheinmetall is steadily expanding its production capacity in Europe in order to meet growing demand from our customers and to support European security”, states Rheinmetall executive board chairman Armin Papperger. “Opened in August of this year, our new plant in Hungary is the most advanced production and testing facilities for armoured vehicles anywhere in the world,” notes Papperger, going on to point out that it will further strengthen the Group’s global production network.

“We’re proud of our team in Zalaegerszeg and of our colleagues in Germany, who reached this milestone in record time”, declares Paul Walf, managing director of Rheinmetall Hungary.
The Hungarian ministry of defence awarded Rheinmetall a contract in September 2020 worth over €2 billion to supply Hungary with Lynx infantry fighting vehicles and related products and services. In the first production phase, Hungary is taking delivery of 46 Lynx IFVs made in Germany. The first vehicle was already transferred to the Hungarian military in October 2022. Starting at the end of 2023, the remaining vehicles will be produced in Hungary by Rheinmetall Hungary Zrt., a joint venture company co-owned by Rheinmetall (51%) and the Hungarian state (49%).

Opened in August 2023, Rheinmetall’s ultramodern facility in Zalaegerszeg will enable the development and production of state-of-the-art wheeled and tracked armoured fighting vehicles for the Hungarian armed forces. These include the Lynx KF41 family as well as the Evo version of the Panther KF51 main battle tank.
The contract originally envisaged seven variants of the Lynx KF41 for the Hungarian military: the standard infantry fighting vehicle; a command post vehicle; a reconnaissance vehicle; a forward artillery observer vehicle; a mortar track; a field ambulance; and a driver education vehicle. As a further variant, Rheinmetall will develop a Lynx mobile air defence vehicle with a Skyranger 30 turret. The contract for the conceptual development of this variant was signed in December 2023.

Posted in International, Press Release | Comments Off on Capacity Expansion: Rheinmetall Builds First Lynx Infantry Fighting Vehicle for Hungary in Hungary

MTHD x TDQ Sherpa Fleece Jacket

December 22nd, 2023

Tactical Distributors have teamed up with Q to introduce a thick pile Sherpa jacket in Bandit or Madala camouflage patterns.

Offered as part of TD’s MTHD line of premium outdoor clothing, the Sherpa Jacket uses a high-pile fleece fabric combined with abrasion-resistant reinforcement panels in the shoulders, elbows, and pockets feature a super lightweight and durable stretch woven nylon ripstop fabric + DWR (Durable Water Repellent). The underarm gusset material is a Merino wool/ polyester blend grid-knit fleece for enhanced odor-control and mobility.

BANDIT – Black Jaguar Print/ Black

MADALA – Canteen/ Hundreds Camo Print

Offered in sizes XSmall – 3XLarge.

www.tacticaldistributors.com/products/mthd-x-tdq-sherpa-fleece-jacket

Posted in Advertiser, Camo, Clothing | 2 Comments »

Meet the “Jake” Victory First Signature Series | Raven Concealment + Matt Jaques Collaboration

December 22nd, 2023

North Ridgeville, OH – December 22nd, 2023 | For Immediate Release

Raven Concealment Systems has announced the launch of their new Signature Series holster, the “Jake.” This series is born out of a 12+ year-long advisory relationship with Matt “Jake” Jacques of Victory First.

The “Jake” is the culmination of all the knowledge RCS gained since their first AIWB holster in 2008. RCS took every lesson learned from their preceding holsters in this category (the ACR, VanGuard 2, and Eidolon), and combined that with the expert input of Matt Jaques, one of the firearms industry’s preeminent concealed-carry gurus.

Matt Jaques, the mind behind Victory First, brought an invaluable perspective to this design. A retired law enforcement officer (with a background in both SWAT and undercover work) who later worked for the Diplomatic Security Service Firearms Training Unit, Jacques ensured that this holster’s design answered the real-world needs of individuals concealing firearms in high-risk environments.

The “Jake” incorporates all the innovative designs that Raven Concealment has pioneered over the last 15 years, such as a user-selectable wedge near the muzzle to keep the rear of the slide from tipping away from the beltline, a new, low-profile claw to tuck the butt of the grip of the pistol into the body, and multiple attachment points for belt hardware like overhooks or soft-loops.

The “Jake” also bears a key feature that Matt Jacques feels is absolutely essential to a proper AIWB holster: A dual body shield. This configuration provides an inboard shield to protect the pistol from sweat, and an outboard shield which protects cover garments from excessive wear from rubbing against slide serrations. This outer shield also helps keep foreign objects from entering the mouth of the holster once the pistol is drawn.

The “Jake” is the natural evolution of Raven Concealment’s approach to AIWB carry, merging time-tested and proven design features with forward-thinking innovation. It’s an ideal choice for discerning shooters in their concealed carry choices. If you’re interested in reading more, or getting one yourself, head over to RCSGear.com.

Posted in Holsters, Press Release | 2 Comments »

EuroOptic Exclusive – Daniel Defense M4A1 Rifle with Vortex AMG 1-10×24 FFP EBR-9 Super Short Scope

December 22nd, 2023

As soon as the elusive Vortex 1-10×24 Super Short Scope was revealed just over a year ago, folks have been trying to figure out how to get one and now is your chance. There’s a catch, well two catches. The first is that there are only 50 available and the second is that you have to buy a rifle along with it.

Now the rifle is pretty nice as well. It’s a Daniel Defense Daniel Defense M4A1 RIII 5.56mm NATO 14.5″ P&W Bbl Rifle and you also get the Vortex AMG 1-10×24 FFP EBR-9 Super Short Scope with the UK issue Reptilia Mount.

Regardless of the fact that this is a full system purchase at $5595, I expect these to go very quickly.

Here are the details:

Explore the exclusive EuroOptic Daniel Defense M4A1 RIII Rifle package featuring the highly sought-after Vortex AMG 1-10×24 Super Short Scope secured within a custom-designed Reptilia AUS mount. Limited to just 50 units, this package delivers a specialized combination of rifle, optic, and mount, drawing inspiration from the L403A1 weapons system recently adopted by the British Special Operations Forces.

Crafted around the Daniel Defense M4A1 RIII, a semi-automatic 5.56x45mm NATO rifle, this package boasts a 14.5” barrel, complemented by a pinned and welded flash hider, maintaining a 16” overall “barrel length” for non-NFA classification. Representing an enhanced iteration of the popular M4A1 platform, the M4A1 RIII incorporates numerous upgrades to optimize performance and user convenience.

Distinguishing itself with the exclusive RIS III rail system, an evolved version of the esteemed RIS II rail developed by SOCOM, the M4A1 RIII features the robust 6-Bolt, Bolt-Up system capable of enduring the recoil from an M203 grenade launcher. Further enhancing usability, its ambidextrous safety selector, bolt release, and charging handle empower both left and right-handed users to operate the rifle seamlessly without adjusting their dominant grip.

Atop this exceptional rifle, the Vortex AMG 1-10×24 34mm Super Short Riflescope, adorned with an EBR-9 First Focal Plane Reticle, rests within the precision-crafted Reptilia AUS optic mount. This American-manufactured scope, weighing a mere 18.85 ounces and measuring a compact 8.5 inches in length, ranks among the lightest and most compact scopes in its category. The EBR-9 Reticle, designed for close and medium-range engagements, combines an illuminated segmented circle dot for optimal visibility at 1x magnification with Christmas tree-style hold-overs for use at higher magnifications. Notably, this scope is currently exclusively available with the purchase of this rifle and optic package.

www.eurooptic.com/Daniel-Defense-M4A1-RIII-556mm-NATO-145-P-W-Bbl-Rifle-with-Vortex-AMG-1-10×24-FF

Posted in Black Rifle, Optics | 4 Comments »

FirstSpear Friday Focus – Merry Christmas!

December 22nd, 2023

Posted in FS Friday Focus | Comments Off on FirstSpear Friday Focus – Merry Christmas!