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Air Force Reserve Component Launches Direct Commission Program; Constructive Service Credit for Cyberspace Warfare Operations Career Field

November 22nd, 2023

By Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —  

The Department of the Air Force has announced that the Air Reserve component has initiated a direct commission and constructive service credit program memo for people interested in serving in the cyber security and cyberspace warfare operations career fields.

Brig. Gen. Terrence Adams, deputy principal cyber advisor to the Secretary of Defense and senior military advisor for Cyber Policy, made the announcement on behalf of the Air Force at the Aspen Institute Cyber Summit in New York.

“As our nation faces tough challenges in the cyberspace warfighting domain, the Air Force Reserve needs the best talent America has to offer,” Adams said. “The Cyber Direct Commission program is designed to attract highly skilled cyber professionals from industry and enlisted career fields who want to serve their nation in a part time capacity.”

Enlisted personnel and civilians qualified to serve as Air Force Warfighter Communications Operators (17D) and Cyberspace Effects Operators (17S) can earn a direct commission as an Air Force officer. Also eligible are personnel who are qualified to earn a cyberspace engineer/agile software developer – Cyberspace Engineering “Z” prefix as outlined in the Air Force Officer Classification Directory.

“This program will allow the service to access cutting edge talent and leverage private sector skills to make us more competitive in the changing world environment,” said Alex Wagner, assistance secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs.

A review board will determine if candidates are eligible for constructive service credit for prior commissioned service, advanced education, and special training or experience.

Constructive service credit is used to determine initial grade, rank and service for promotion eligibility and is usually granted in year-long increments.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

·?? Be eligible for a commission in the Air Force, including physical standards for entrance

·?? Possess or be eligible for a top secret/sensitive compartmented information security clearance

·?? Have a quantifiable record of leadership, management or supervisory experience in academia, civilian and/or military organizations (preferred)

·?? Have qualifying advanced education, specialized training and/or experience in cyber-related fields as outlined in the memo

Candidates will incur an initial four-year Selective Reserve obligation from the date of appointment or commission and an additional four-year Inactive Ready Reserve obligation. They will also be required to complete the U.S. Air Force Officer Training School program. Their monthly reserve obligation will depend on the needs of their units, training requirements and mission requirements.

This program follows a regular Air Force pilot program for direct commissioning into cyber career fields and constructive service credit launched in 2020.

This is the first time the reserve component has opened direct commissions to career fields other than lawyers, chaplains and medical personnel. The service may consider expanding the direct commission program to other reserve and Guard career fields in the future.

Career fields that may be considered are operations analyst, intelligence, security forces, chemist, nuclear chemist, physicists, nuclear physicists, developmental engineer and acquisition manager.

#GivingTuesday: Military Aid Societies Ready for Round

November 21st, 2023

Military Aid Societies are poised to embark on their second annual fundraising battle, setting the stage for the #Battle4BraggingRights, where they will vie for supremacy in contributions.

WASHINGTON (November 20, 2023) – On November 28th, the combined forces of Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), Air Force Aid Society (AFAS), Army Emergency Relief (AER), and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) have announced their intent to engage in the #Battle4BraggingRights for the second consecutive year on #GivingTuesday. The mission remains the same: secure essential funds to provide service members and their families with vital emergency relief, financial support and educational resources.

“Amidst the #GivingTuesday philanthropic spirit, we are challenging ourselves to add an exhilarating twist – a friendly competition among Military Aid Societies – to amplify the excitement of giving,” said U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant General Robert R. Ruark, NMCRS’s President and CEO.

The #Battle4BraggingRights will unfold across social media platforms on #GivingTuesday, November 28, 2023. Supporters are encouraged to visit Battle4BraggingRights.com, where they can allocate their contributions to one of the four Military Aid Societies. At the close, a victor will emerge.

“While the rivalry adds some flavor, the true winners remain our service members, veterans and their families,” said Kristina McBride, AFAS’s acting CEO. “Every contribution for #Battle4BraggingRights enables the continuation of vital programs and services for military personnel and veterans worldwide.”

Within the organizations’ circles, good-natured banter permeates, as staff and volunteers gear up for the friendly competition.

“In sparking inter-service competition, we’re firing up our supporters to achieve remarkable success during #Battle4BraggingRights,” said U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Cari Thomas, CEO of CGMA. “We have full confidence that our loyal advocates will rally to make this endeavor triumphant.”

Lockheed Martin, a global security and aerospace company, has extended a generous proposal to match every gift made during #Battle4BraggingRights on #GivingTuesday, up to a sum of $1 million. This substantial matching pledge guarantees that donations to these transformative Military Aid Societies will yield double the impact for military members, veterans and their families.

“Our shared commitment to aiding our armed forces and their families underscores the significance of this gesture,” said U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Raymond Mason, Director of AER. “Thanks to Lockheed Martin’s generous support, donors who give during #Battle4BraggingRights will have their impact and contribution and impact doubled.”

Commencing in 2012 as a Global Day of Giving, #GivingTuesday has galvanized countless individuals to rally behind their cherished causes. To make a donation, and have it doubled for your favorite Military Aid Society, be sure to visit Battle4BraggingRights.com this #GivingTuesday on November 28th, 2023.

Allen-Vanguard Announces the Production of Its 500th SCORPION Manpack ECM System

November 21st, 2023

Allen-Vanguard, a global leader in providing customized solutions for defeating Radio Frequency (RF) based terrorist and extremist threats, has announced the production of its 500th SCOPRION manpack ECM system.

Allen-Vanguard started producing the latest generation of the SCORPION manpack ECM system in 2019. It is the current in a long line of manportable systems from the company going back almost 2 decades. It is perfect for more mobile ECM applications such as protection for troops deployed on the ground or for specialist EOD teams to provide local protection for an operator approaching a suspect device. Most recently it has been effectively deployed in a CUAS role. It is a highly versatile and lightweight man-portable system that capitalizes on a wealth of operational feedback and Allen- Vanguard’s extensive experience in providing highly effective ECM protection from Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Device (RCIED) and the growing prominence of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles/Systems (UAV/UAS) aka Drones.

SCORPION is deployed protecting troops, NGOs and other government agencies in every continent worldwide. With its flexible, modular architecture and wide range of power options, antenna configurations and carriage systems it is suitable for a myriad of protection tasks. It delivers a hybrid, full spectrum system with extensive threat band coverage which means it has superior usability, combined with advanced technologies, makes SCORPION the most powerful response to present and future RCIED & Drone threats.

The threat from RCIEDs and UAVs remains extremely high in many historic conflict regions and in new conflicts zones emerging on multiple continents. This combined with the ever-evolving nature of both conventional and asymmetric warfare, means that Allen-Vanguard places a significant focus on research and development to ensure their customers receive the best possible protection. The Allen-Vanguard Threat Management Team (TMT) work tirelessly analysing new waveforms captured by operational systems to update and optimize algorithms specific for each user’s needs and to combat threats specific to the region of operations. In parallel, the development team are working incredibly hard on the next generation of Allen-Vanguard systems which includes their Remote Radio Head, EQUINOX NG-X, and SCORPION-NG. Each of these systems will be the cornerstone capability of their major programmes for man-portable, vehicle and advanced future vehicle capabilities for years to come.

Bobby Strawbridge, Director Business Development for Allen-Vanguard said “I am delighted that we have reached this significant milestone for SCORPION. It is the ultimate versatile ECM protection, packed with all our years of experience and expertise in defeating the RF threat in a manpack form to maximise its flexibility and utility. Whether in a dismounted role, on EOD operations or vehicle mounted for patrol protection or even at a static location countering radio controlled IEDs or nefarious drones, SCORPION is helping to protect those who face the greatest danger all over the world.”

TacJobs – Thril Inc Seeks Content Creator and Brand Strategist

November 21st, 2023

Company Overview:

Thril Inc. is a forward-looking design and manufacturing company specializing in small arms weapon accessories and components. Our unwavering commitment to providing high-quality shooting products at affordable prices reflects our dedication to making exceptional shooting experiences accessible to all. With aspirations to lead the industry, we are in search of a creative and passionate Content Creator and Brand Strategist to help shape our brand’s future.

Job Summary:

Are you a branding and social media enthusiast with a deep-rooted passion for firearms? If so, an exciting and impactful opportunity awaits you within our organization. As the Content Creator and Brand Strategist, you will play a pivotal role in developing and executing our brand strategy and social media marketing initiatives. Your contributions will be instrumental in enhancing our brand’s identity and expanding our presence across a range of online platforms.

Key Responsibilities:

• Brand Stewardship: Immerse yourself in the essence of our brand, ensuring all content resonates with our brand identity and remains highly relevant to our audience.

• Content Creation: Actively contribute to content creation, including photography and videography.

• Strategic Social Media Management: Develop and execute comprehensive social media strategies for platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and emerging platforms. Your focus will encompass audience growth and enhancing our brand perception.

• Content Calendar Management: Create and maintain a 30-day social media calendar that seamlessly aligns with our overarching Marketing calendar, campaigns, and objectives.

• Email marketing: Develop and manage email marketing campaigns, generate content and monitor performance.

• Influencer and Brand Partner Collaboration: Collaborate with influencers and brand partners to orchestrate and execute cross-promotional social content.

• Event Participation: Attend events as required, providing comprehensive coverage across our social media platforms.

• Trend Monitoring: Stay current with the latest trends and best practices across all social media platforms, ensuring our strategies remain current and engaging.

• Audience Engagement Excellence: Foster active engagement in all areas where customers and audience members interact with our brand, including social channel comments, DMs, external blogs, forums, owners’ groups, and more.

• Product and Brand Proficiency: Cultivate an exceptional understanding of our products, brand narratives, and more to consistently represent the brand across all social media platforms and touchpoints.

• Copywriting Prowess: Demonstrate outstanding copywriting skills that are not only grammatically sound but also compelling and engaging.

• Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze and report on critical social media key performance indicators, reach, engagement, and more, refining strategies as necessary.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field with a focus on branding (or equivalent work experience).

• Social Media Experience: Demonstrated experience in managing social media accounts for businesses or organizations, including planning and executing social media strategies, content creation, and community engagement. ideally with an emphasis on branding, especially in the firearms or shooting sports industry.

• Branding Expertise: Strong knowledge and experience in brand development and management, with the ability to ensure brand consistency across all social media channels.

• Content Creation: Proficiency in content creation, including copywriting, graphic design, and basic video production.

• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze social media performance data and translate insights into actionable strategies for brand improvement.

• SEO Knowledge: Understanding of SEO principles and their application in social media content for increased brand visibility.

• Social Media Tools: Proficiency in using social media management and analytics tools.

• Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with the firearms / shooting sports industry enabling a better understanding of the target audience and competition.

• Project Management: Strong project management skills to handle multiple campaigns and brand initiatives simultaneously.

• Influencer Relations: Experience in working with influencers and brand partners to create and execute effective brand collaborations.

Job Type: Full-time, salary

Benefits:

• 401(k)

• Employee discount

• Flexible schedule

• Health insurance

• Paid time off

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Pipersville, PA 18947

Applicants may apply via email with a resume sent to Matt Pettit MPettit@thrilusa.com

Duty Belt Dominance: Qore Performance Launches First-Ever ICEVENTS INNER BELT

November 21st, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 20 November 2023

Knoxville, TN — For anyone who has worn a gun belt for any length of time, heat, moisture-retention, hip and joint pain were just a part of the job. Until now.

Qore Performance, Inc., the pioneer in weaponizing temperature to improve performance and survivability for anyone who wears PPE, is excited to introduce the ICEVENTS® INNER BELT, a groundbreaking addition to their IceAge Ecosystem. This innovative inner belt is poised to redefine comfort, support, and functionality for anyone who demands excellence in the performance of their duties.

The ICEVENTS® INNER BELT is meticulously engineered to address the unique challenges faced by law enforcement officers, military operators, competition shooters and freedom-loving citizens in wearing a gun belt. By harnessing advanced, proprietary materials and innovative design, this inner belt aims to revolutionize the way professionals carry their life-saving equipment. Key Features of the ICEVENTS® INNER BELT include:

Advanced Ventilation Technology: The ICEVENTS® INNER BELT incorporates Qore Performance, Inc.’s proprietary ICEVENTS® Technology, enhancing breathability and moisture management under load, ensuring comfort during extended shifts in diverse conditions.

Enhanced Load Distribution: Prioritizing ergonomics and weight distribution, ICEVENTS® INNER BELT reduces fatigue and discomfort, enabling users to perform at their best when it matters most. Qore Performance worked closely with the Blue Force Gear to match the contour and closure mechanism of the ICEVENTS® INNER BELT with their GRID and CHLK belts. Although optimized for use with Blue Force Gear belts, ICEVENTS® INNER BELT works with any straight belt from other leading manufacturers like Lead Devil USA, AWS Gear, etc.

Modularity and Compatibility: The ICEVENTS® INNER BELT seamlessly integrates with any modern hook-lined duty belt ensuring compatibility with existing gear setups. ICEVENTS® INNER BELT pant compatibility details can be found on the ICEVENTS® INNER BELT FAQ here.

“Will Clark, Field Training Specialist at Qore Performance, Inc., said, ‘Our team at Qore Performance, Inc. is dedicated to improving the lives of Constitutionally-minded armed professionals by providing them with the most advanced performance-enhancing equipment available anywhere in the world today. The ICEVENTS® INNER BELT is the result of extensive research and development, and we believe it will significantly enhance the comfort, effectiveness, and survivability of our dedicated end-users everywhere.'”

The ICEVENTS® INNER BELT is available now, exclusively at QorePerformance.com.

For more information about the ICEVENTS® INNER BELT or media inquiries, please contact:
Qore Performance, Inc.
300 Winona Street
Knoxville, TN 37917

Phone: 703.755.0724

Email: info@qoreperformance.com

Website: www.qoreperformance.com

PTR Industries Launches New Pistol Line

November 21st, 2023

PTR™ Industries is excited to announce that the Archon Firearms™ semi-automatic pistols are now available in the U.S. market! The Archon Firearms™ semi-automatic pistols are innovative compact, high?performance handguns that utilize a low bore axis and patented breech locking system, known as AF-Speedlock®. This inventive design eliminates the need for a tilting barrel allowing for the entire slide of the firearm to be dropped lower into the grip. These two innovative features act together to significantly reduce muzzle rise, allowing for less felt recoil and much faster target re-acquisition.

PTR™ is now offering two models of the Archon Firearms™ semi-automatic pistols the Archon Gen 1 Type B by PTR™ and the Archon Gen 2 Type B by PTR™, with additional models to follow. The Gen 2 Type B has all the cutting-edge features of the Gen 1 Type B with an added innovative grip system. The new grip system features interchangeable grip textures, and a modular design that allows the pistol to be tailored not only to each shooters grip, but also to change from a full size to a compact or sub-compact.

Visit the PTR™ website to learn more about the Archon Gen 1 Type B by PTR™ and the Archon Gen 2 Type B by PTR™.

PTR™ is a South Carolina based manufacturer of one of the most globally recognized and iconic platforms ever produced, roller-delayed blowback firearms. Over the last two decades PTR™ has built a high-performance manufacturing facility and a team of experts that takes pride in developing dependable firearms.

Contact: wilfordg@ptr-us.com for additional information

Or see more at: https://www.ptr-us.com

Adept Armor NovaSteel Breastplate; Advanced Multi-Threat Riot Armor

November 21st, 2023

Designed as a revolutionary advance in riot armor, the NovaSteel Breastplate is an up-armorable plate carrier capable of stopping a full spectrum of threats.

Tulsa, Okla. (October 2023) – Adept Armor, the most innovative company in leading performance body armor, proudly introduces the NovaSteel Breastplate, an ultra-versatile torso shoulder armor system originally designed as the next generation of riot armor, but represents a paradigm shift in protection from the full spectrum of street threats with greatly improved ballistic and ergonomic properties. The NovaSteel Breastplate’s universal and multi-faceted amor system is capable of stopping multiple threats:

• Handgun threats up to Level IIIA
• Knives well beyond Knife-3
• Spikes well beyond Spike-3
• Blunt impacts well beyond 100J
• Rifle threats to Level III+ with integral up-armor plates

?Unlike standard riot armor, Adept Armor’s NovaSteel Breastplate is not only a riot armor torso and shoulder protector but a drop-in replacement for existing riot armor torso-shoulder parts with vastly improved ballistic and ergonomic properties. In itself, it’s the thinnest Level IIIA armor ever produced (less than 0.1” thick), while also being lightweight and easily concealable. By offering comparable coverage to most soft armor systems, the backface deformation against common handgun threats is extremely low, at less than 10mm on average (i.e., 9mm FMJ), and unlike existing concealable armor, it also offers stab and spike protection to the highest possible level.

Another feature that makes Adept Armor’s NovaSteel Breastplate unbeatable is its ability to be more than one thing; case in point, it is a first-in-class plate carrier that can be up-armored with specially-built UHMWPE plates (1.7 lbs. each) to improve protection to level RF1 (NIJ III plus 5.56x45mm M193 and 7.62x39mm MSC). For those who desire a higher level of protection, RF2 plates are forthcoming. Up-armoring the NovaSteel Breastplate is easy, requiring two included bolts, and can be done in minutes, on the spot.

Additionally, the breastplate can also be fitted with MOLLE placards for overt use as a structural plate carrier. It also features integral air channels to provide ventilation, and a raised crest to provide additional protection for the spine. Heavily padded shoulders help reduce the perceived weight. Made from Adept Armor’s proprietary NovaSteel alloy, the breastplate weighs 9.8 lbs. in size XL/L and 9 lbs. in Medium.

For more information on Adept Armor visit their website.

Developing the Next Generation of Air Force Special Warfare Cadet Programs

November 21st, 2023

By Headquarters Air Force A3 Air Force Special Warfare Directorate

Air Force Special Warfare (AFSPECWAR) continues to refine its academic year and summer programs to help AFROTC and USAFA cadets prepare to be Special Tactics Officers (STOs), Tactical Air Control Party Officers (TACPOs), and Combat Rescue Officers (CROs).

Now in year three, USAFA’s formalized “Special Warfare Club” (SWC) academic year materials benefit two areas — first, they are available for AFROTC Detachments to download and develop or refine their own SWC; second, they are used in the 2, two-week Special Warfare Orientation Courses (SWOC) official summer programs.

The information and exposure will help cadets prepare physically and mentally prior to attending a selection for Special Warfare, called Phase II.  The 19Z Special Warfare Officers (STO/TACPO/CRO) are the only officer specialties which require successful selection at a pre-commissioning screener to begin their respective training pipelines, according to Col. John M. Graver, individual mobilization augmentee to the director of AF/A3S Air Force Special Warfare.

“With no previous experience, many cadets do poorly, negatively impacting unit readiness. Now, we provide them a safe introduction to the events and evaluation criteria,” said Graver. “Without a formalized method to prepare, cadets have proven to develop unsafe habits.”

Currently, filling commissioning slots for the 19Z AFSC is a challenge shared by both AFROTC and USAFA.

“We want cadets to be successful. Our program includes over 30 academic and physical lesson plans, risk management, and templates to organize their SWCs, along with opportunities to learn from contracted coaches, thereby mitigating risk for Detachment commanders,” added Graver.

The last SWOC was held in June and July 2023 at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. where 80 AFROTC and USAFA cadets participated; with more than 20 cadets-in-charge and over 20 uniformed and civilian staff from USAFA, AFROTC, MAJCOMs, and Air Force and Army flying units assisting with the training.

SWOC involves over 40 events to prepare cadets for the “Phase II” pre-commissioning screener. These included land and water fitness sessions, troop leading procedures, small unit tactics, decision making, as well as planning and executing global access, precision strike, and personnel recovery missions.

Additionally, AFROTC cadets can participate in AFRS-led Special Warfare AFROTC Weekend (SWAW) events, which are conducted 8-10 times throughout the academic year at various detachments hosting these weekend events around the country.

“We want to provide interested cadets as many opportunities as possible to prepare,” said Maj. Eric Atchison, Air Force Recruiting Service. “Between these SWAW events, the 2-week SWOC opportunities in the summer, and an increased number of Special Warfare Clubs at Detachments, we can prepare as many cadets as possible to succeed as leaders in the Special Warfare community. It’s an extremely challenging and rewarding career like no other, and we are looking for the right young men and women who have what it takes to succeed, no matter the odds.”

AFROTC detachments with interest in developing or refining their cadet Special Warfare Club should expect to receive another message this fall on these opportunities, and may reach out to Maj. Atchison for additional information at eric.atchison.1@us.af.mil