Here’s a peek at a capsule PRISM created for Post Malone which features MultiCam and AOR1 fabrics.
Sneak Peek – Post Malone Capsule x PRISM
July 28th, 2023FirstSpear Friday Focus – Fast Rope Mitt
July 28th, 2023
Looking for a minimalist glove that won’t burn through your hands during those intense fast rope insertions? Look no further than the Fast Rope Mitt (FRM). Not only does it fold flat for easy transport, but its advanced two finger pattern allows for quick access to your trigger finger as soon as you hit the ground. This fast rope glove puts all other gloves to shame. Don’t believe us? Give it a try and feel the difference in quality American “roper” cow leather and ultra-high performance Kovenex.
Visit FirstSpear to find American Made kit and accessories, Built For The X.
NIOA Australia CEO Urges Support For Industry In Face Of Cuts
July 28th, 2023NIOA’s CEO for Australia and New Zealand, Ben James, has called on Defence to rally behind industry in the wake of revelations that thousands of contractors face the axe.
James’s plea was triggered by a recent media report which revealed that Defence is planning to purge contractors in a raft of budgetary measures.
NIOA Australia and New Zealand CEO Ben James, at last night’s AIDN Queensland dinner, has called on Defence to back local industry in challenging times.
The boss of the biggest Australian-owned supplier of munitions to the ADF last night (Eds: Thursday, July 27) told Queensland’s premier defence gathering in Brisbane that Defence’s cost crackdown risked undermining industry engagement and confidence amid a regional environment which he described as “an increasingly rough neighbourhood”.
“Properly harnessed, motivated and engaged industry partners bring market expertise, private capital and investment and superior agility to capability delivery that is beyond the capacity of government agencies acting in isolation,” James told AIDN Queensland gala dinner guests.
“In that sense, there will need to be a degree of calibration and nuance in what the AFR described last month as Defence’s ‘War on Contractors’.
“A vibrant, viable and functional defence industry base is a critical pillar in achieving the strategic depth we seek in an increasingly rough neighbourhood.
“Conversely, a weak, short-sighted and bureaucracy-bound industry base could represent a harbinger for a catastrophic failure of credibility in deterrence.”
With Australian defence and foreign ministers and their American counterparts in Brisbane this week for the annual AUSMIN talks, James seized upon the timing to emphasise the critical role of allied sovereign capability.
Regional defence and security will be high on the agenda when Defence Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Minister Penny Wong meet with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin.
“One of the stated aims of this week’s AUSMIN dialogue is to establish a combined logistics, sustainment, and maintenance enterprise to support high?end warfighting and combined military operations in the region,” James said.
“The US is currently pursuing changes to Title 3 of the Defense Production Act which would allow Australian based production and manufacturing to be listed as a US domestic source.
“The Defence Strategic Review itself calls out the need to manufacture munitions in Australia.
“If all of these initiatives are important and central to Australia’s defence posture, I would contend Defence needs to go to war in partnership with industry, rather than declaring a jihad against contractors in the wake of Major Service Provider misconduct and an urgent need for budget savings.”
James’s address resonated with more than 345 stakeholders, including industry leaders and SMEs from throughout Queensland, many of whom were at the same event last year when he warned Australia “is well off the pace” in building a reliable defence industrial base.
The former Brigadier said the defence industry was navigating through challenging times, and the importance of collaboration between government and industry was greater than ever.
“From a Defence industry perspective, the DSR was scathing of CASG, finding ‘the current approach to capability acquisition as unsuitable in our strategic circumstances’,” he said.
“Similarly, the review found that the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) enterprise, established after the Strategic Update in 2020 to ‘support missile and guided weapons manufacturing for use across the Australian Defence Force’, lacks required workforce and is yet to produce a strategy.
“Now, the DSR informs us, the GWEO Enterprise has until quarter two 2024 to determine options for the increase in guided weapons and EO stocks, including the rapid establishment of domestic manufacturing.
“So, four years after the Strategic Update identified the ‘military modernisation faster than we had expected’ in our region, the ‘deployment of new weapons by our adversaries that challenge Australia’s military capability edge’ and ‘greater intensity in major power competition’, we will have options presented to Government to increase EO stocks an rapidly establish domestic manufacturing… without a penny of new money to achieve as much.
“The misalignment between how we see and describe our region and the pace at which we are implementing necessary changes to industry settings are a case of ‘talking the talk’; but not ‘walking the walk’. Our audio is not matching our video.”
USARCENT Tests Phone App That Detects Unmanned Aerial Systems
July 28th, 2023
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. — U.S. Army Central’s Task Force 39, the team dedicated to developing innovative ideas throughout USARCENT, facilitated a test of CARPE Dronvm at McEntire Joint National Guard Base and Poinsett Range on July 18, 2023.
CARPE Dronvm is a DoD funded application developed by MITRE Corporation that uses crowd-sourced information to detect unmanned aerial systems, or UAS. This test used a version of the application on cell phones to detect a UAS. Maj. Travis Valley, the Task Force 39 operations officer, said the potential for crowd-sourced UAS detection increases force protection capabilities.
“The CARPE Dronvm experiment, or proof of principle, was a huge success for ARCENT.” said Valley. “This was the largest experiment ARCENT has conducted to date. We expanded the experiment footprint, covering 50 kilometers, with multiple individuals in the area using the CARPE Dronvm app. This was all to prove the CARPE Dronvm app works. It did, in fact it exceeded my expectations on the simplicity of use and the program’s drone detection ability. This has the potential as a force protection multiplier, adding another tool to help protect Soldiers in a deployed environment.”
During the test, Soldiers used government provided cellular devices to test the functionality and capability of the application by capturing images of a UAS. The UAS used in the test flew from McEntire JNGB to Poinsett Range to provide the maximum amount of testing space available.
CARPE Dronvm is the result of a U.S. Air Forces Central initiative to develop systems to detect UAS. U.S. Army Central is testing the ability to operate this application at the Soldier level.
“Countering the drone threat in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility is essential to keeping our personnel, aircraft and equipment safe,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Steven Norris, AFCENT counter-UAS cell chief. “Our MITRE partners have been helping make CARPE Dronvm a reality since 2019. Every single warfighter can help sense and warn, creating a comprehensive layered defense that will tie into our existing command and control architecture and increase awareness of threats in the region.”
In recent years, the threat posed by UAS increased as malign regional actors continue to use and experiment with this relatively cheap weapons system. Due to its low cost to entry, it is becoming the weapon of choice for potential adversaries resulting in rapid technology proliferation and increased employment. Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank, the USARCENT commanding general said his command is focused on developing technologies to counter this threat.
“The UAS threat is a shared security challenge for the U.S. and our regional partners,” said Frank. “To combat this threat, CENTCOM and USARCENT will test and field counter-UAS systems. The advanced measures we intend to pursue regarding innovation and experimentation will provide critical, real-time data to inform Army and defense decisions on counter-UAS technologies.”
United States Army Central is the U.S. Army service component command for United States Central Command and is responsible to the Secretary of the Army for the support and administration of more than 12,000 Soldiers, including those assigned to joint task forces and embassies, across the 21 countries in the CENTCOM area of responsibility.
Story by CPT Richard Moore
Photos by SFC Michael Behlin, SSG Leo Jenkins, and SGT Amber Cobena
Griffin Armament Launches M4SD-L : Tubeless GATE-LOK 5.56mm Suppressor
July 27th, 2023Griffin Armament’s new M4SD-L (LIGHTWEIGHT) sound suppressor is the first tubeless laser welded suppressor to be introduced to Griffin’s versatile Gate-LOKTM lineup. This design makes the M4SD-L lighter than other Gate-LOKTM suppressors. Combining ECO-FLOWTM baffles, Gate-LOKTM mounting system, and Pressure Reduction Cap results in a lightweight, durable, and performance-rich next-generation suppressor.
The M4SD-L features Griffin’s Gate-LOKTM mounting system which allows for rapid installation and removal with the ability to be mounted to most USGI-spec A2 NATO compensators, as well as all Griffin proprietary Gate-LOKTM muzzle device options. The GATE-LOKTM system is faster and easier to use than standard A2 interfaces and ensures a strong, concentrically aligned mount with minimal POI shift and exceptional repeatability.
Each individual baffle in the M4SD-L has been tuned to provide superior sound reduction and incorporates Griffin’s patented ECO-FLOWTM technology that reduces back-pressure and increases flow. This makes the suppressor host firearm operating system more reliable and largely un-affected by the suppressor and provides cleaner breathing air to the operator’s face. Each baffle has been individually tuned and engineered for a specific purpose, unlike a classic stack design. With the M4SD- L, each baffle has an independent function to improve performance.
The patent pending Pressure Reduction Cap features high performance internal and external flash reducing features, as well as optimally tuned gas vents which not only enhance flash reduction even further, but also improve sound performance in conjunction with the ECO-FLOWTM baffles.
When asked about the suppressor, Austin, head of Griffin Armament product development said,
“We manufactured the M4SD-L for demonstration to the military and provided many units to the military for as yet ongoing T&E. This GATE-LOKTM model was intended for experienced end users seeking greater optimization for real world conditions. This suppressor is now available for the consumer and export markets. The M4SD-L combines a wide range of innovative Griffin engineering developments to bring an incredibly well- rounded suppressor to market. The M4SD-L also shows our current customers our continued commitment to the Gate-LOKTM suppressor lineup, and to it’s development and optimization.”
– Austin Green
Key points:
• Laser-welded, tubeless design
• Rapid and versatile GATE-LOKTM mounting system
• Compatible with GATE-LOKTM or most USGI-A2 Spec Compensators
• 17-4 H900 heat-treated stainless steel
• Patent-pending flash reducing, and flow optimized end cap
• Patented ECO-FLOWTM baffle system for improved performance and shooting experience
• GATE-LOKTM Hammer Comp 1/2×28 5.56mm (.22 cal) muzzle device included
• 3?4” wrench flats on muzzle devices
• Suppressor body design patented, H900 heat treated and Hi-temp Cerakoted
• Protected BY Griffin’s Perpetual Lifetime WarrantyTM
M4SD-L Specs:
• Dimensions: 1.5” x 6.5”
• Weight: 14.5oz
• Sound Pressure Level at shooter’s ear : (136.1DB) 11.5″ Griffin MK1, (133.1DB) 16” Griffin MK1
• MSRP: $995.00
Accessories supported:
• GATE-LOKTM Muzzle Devices (GATE-LOKTM Hammer Comp 1/2×28 5.56mm included)
• USGI-A2 Compensator
To find out more on Griffin Armament’s entire product line, please visit their website at www.GriffinArmament.com.
Dynamic Duo Secures Podium Positions at The Tactical Games Hosted at Brownells
July 27th, 202327 July 2023 – San Antonio TX – Sons of Liberty Gun Works, a superior manufacturer of high quality, hard-use, direct impingement firearms with lifetime warranties; is pleased to congratulate Blayr Drumm and Nathan Drumm on returning to the podium in their respective divisions at this past Tactical Games 2023 Regional Event at the Brownells shooting facility in Grinnell, Iowa. The Tactical Games purpose-built rifle by Sons of Liberty Gun Works continues to perform and exceed the athletes’ expectations.
Blayr is a highly accomplished and passionate professional, recognized as a leading authority in the fields of nutrition and fitness. As a nutritionist, fitness coach, and the visionary behind the successful business “Smoke Sheux Meal Prep,” Blayr has dedicated her life to helping others achieve their health and wellness goals.
“I had such awesome weekend competing alongside some incredibly talented and hardworking women. Stoked to see all of my hard work in training pay off this weekend, can’t wait to get back to training for the next one!”- Blayr
Nathan is an exceptional individual with a background that exemplifies bravery, dedication, and a relentless commitment to service. With a distinguished 10-year tenure as a Combat Engineer in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and an ongoing career in the Fire Service spanning 16 years, he embodies the true spirit of a hero.
“I’ve been competing since 2019 in the early days of the sport, and it’s truly amazing to see where it was and where it is now from all the hard work the leadership has poured into the sport. It was an amazing event at Brownells range, with equally great people who fiercely competed all weekend. Cannot wait until the next event to see what challenges we will face!” – Nathan
The Tactical Games at Grinnell, Iowa
Blayr Drumm – 2nd Place Women’s Elite
Nathan Drumm – 1st Place Men’s Masters 40+
To learn more about this power couple’s rifle setup, be sure to visit sonsoflibertygw.com/the-tactical-games
Team SIG’s Daniel Horner and Lena Miculek Dominate at USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals
July 27th, 2023NEWINGTON, N.H., (July 27, 2023) – SIG SAUER, Inc. congratulates Team SIG professional shooters Daniel Horner and Lena Miculek for their impressive performances at the recent USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals. Daniel Horner earned the inaugural first place finish in the newly established Modern Division, while Lena Miculek defended her High Lady title and became the first female to break the top five finishers in the overall Tactical Division.
“The performances by Daniel and Lena throughout this match were thrilling and their victories incredibly impressive,” said Tom Taylor Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, Commercial Sales, SIG SAUER, Inc. “Leading up to this nationals, Daniel and Lena trained together putting themselves through an exhaustive daily regiment to be match-ready; it was great to see this dedication and hard work pay off with the championship finishes for each of them, competing in a true team fashion. Daniel set the bar for the newly establish Modern Division, and Lena smashed another glass ceiling earning the fifth overall spot in the extremely competitive Tactical Division.”
Daniel Horner, Team SIG professional shooter commented, “I came to this years’ nationals with a mission to reclaim a title after a very close loss last year. The course of fire was extremely challenging, and my skill was tested at every stage of the match. However, I was able to rely on my training and SIG equipment to reclaim a national multi-gun title and deliver a victory for Team SIG.”
Horner competed with a P320-DH3 pistol with a ROMEO1PRO optic, M400-DH3 rifle with a TANGO6T riflescope and SIG 9mm Match Elite competition ammunition, and 5.56 MARKSMAN ELITE Match Competition Ammunition.
Lena Miculek, Team SIG Professional shooter added, “since the launch of Rose by Sig Sauer my focus has been on taking my experience as a professional shooter to provide support and education to the Rose community. This multi-gun nationals brought me back to my roots and the beginning of my own firearms journey; I returned to my family trade of competition shooting to not only defend my Tac-Optics High Lady title but earn a top five overall ranking, raising the bar yet again for women in the firearms world. Nothing is sweeter than getting to celebrate shared success alongside my teammate Daniel Horner, and my father Jerry Miculek. New training, camaraderie, encouragement, and the joy of shared success are just a few of the things I experienced at this multi-gun national that I can’t wait to bring back to the Rose Community.”
Miculek competed with a P320-XFIVE LEGION, M400-DH3 rifle with a TANGO6T riflescope and SIG 9mm Match Elite competition ammunition, and 5.56 MARKSMAN ELITE Match Competition Ammunition.
The 2023 USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals was held at the Forest Lakes Sportsman’s Club in Forest Lake, Minnesota, July 21 – 23, 2023. For more information about the SIG SAUER equipment used by Team SIG Pro Shooters Daniel Horner and Lena Miculek visit sigsauer.com.
Australian Defence Force Selects Hanwa’s Redback as New Infantry Fighting Vehicle to Replace Aging M113s
July 27th, 2023
A Redback infantry fighting vehicle on display in Canberra. Army will take delivery of 129 of the vehicles, to be built in Geelong. Photo: Andrew Green
The Army will receive 129 new infantry fighting vehicles in response to Australia’s changing strategic environment.
Making the announcement today, the Australian Government said Hanwha’s state-of-the-art Redbacks would be built at the company’s facilities in the Geelong region, supporting Australia’s strategic imperative to develop sovereign defence manufacturing capabilities.
At a cost of between $5 billion and $7 billion, the LAND 400 Phase 3 project will be one of the largest capability acquisitions in Army’s history.
Replacing the M113 armoured personnel carriers, which were acquired in 1964, the first Redback will be delivered in early 2027.
With its latest-generation armour, cannon and missiles, they will provide the protection, mobility and firepower required to transport and protect soldiers in close combat, giving them the highest chance of achieving their mission and returning safely.
The government said the acquisition was part of its drive to modernise the Army to ensure it could respond to the land challenges in the region.
The new vehicles will be delivered about the same time as the new HIMARS missile systems and landing craft, reflecting the Defence Strategic Review’s call for Army to be transformed for littoral manoeuvre operations from Australia.
The government said it was providing the ADF with the capabilities it needed to defend Australia and protect national security.
Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said the government was committed to investing in the security of the nation and the safety of Australian soldiers.
“We are also committed to supporting Australian defence industry so we can make more of the critical defence equipment we need in this country rather than relying on overseas suppliers,” Mr Conroy said.
“Our decision to build the Redback infantry fighting vehicles in Australia will support up to 600 direct jobs and more than a thousand jobs in the Australian industry supply chain.”
By Australian Defence Force
