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SOFWERX to Host Lightweight Body Armor (LWBA) Assessment Event

July 12th, 2023

SOFWERX, in collaboration with USSOCOM Program Executive Office-SOF Warrior (PEO-SW) will host an Assessment Event (AE) 29-31 August 2023, to identify solutions for Lightweight Body Armor (LWBA). The LWBA will provide the SOF operator with the lightest possible ballistic plate that meets ballistic protection requirements, to increase operational effectiveness and to reduce long term injury.

USSOCOM is seeking sources within the national technology and industrial base with the ability to provide USSOCOM LWBA. The objective is to streamline developmental efforts and field Special Operations (SO) – peculiar body armor in a rapid acquisition environment. The LWBA will focus on reducing the weight of currently fielded ballistic plates while maintaining or increasing the level of ballistic protection, and provide vital mission essential equipment for SOF operators.

The objective of the LWBA effort is to evaluate and identify the lightest weight ballistic plates that meet current ballistic performance specifications. The lightweight ballistic plates must be compatible with currently fielded USSOCOM body armor vests and meet the requirements of the technical drawings provided by USSOCOM.

Interested parties must submit by 01 August 2023 11:59 PM ET.

Details are found at events.sofwerx.org/bodyarmor.

Sneak Peek – Emissary Development Alternator

July 12th, 2023

Emissary Development’s Alternator addresses some of the shortcomings of using two illumination and/or laser aiming devices at the same time.

The design of the Alternator is simply a housing that clamps over two existing Unity Modbutton Lite switches. It has its own actuation surface that sits above the switches and features three pads that use different textures and their own unique angle to make it easier to differentiate each pad from another.

The forward and rearward pads fire off the switch directly underneath them but the middle pad will activate both switches simultaneously.

It also features a fully fenced off body that helps prevent accidental activation of the switches.

They plan to offer two different versions, a “standard fence” and a “raised fence” variant.

The standard fence has the activation buttons flush with the surrounding protective barrier (designed to prevent unwanted activation) of the housing. This will be the most comfortable and lowest profile version.

The raised fence, as it’s name implies, has a slightly raised protective barrier for those looking for a bit more added insurance against the possibility of unwanted activation of the buttons. Keep in mind this model stands slightly taller on the rail that the standard model.

Both versions are designed to prevent AD/NDs so while there really isn’t a massive difference between them they wanted to offer options that the end user can select which model fits their needs best.

emissarydevelopment.com

The MSV (Modular Scalable Vest) Gen II’s NIJ Level IIIA Counterpart heading to U.S. Air Force

July 12th, 2023

One of the items I ran across during Warrior East was the Gen II Modular Scalable Vest from Custom Armor Group. Unfortunately, as it is part of a current Army program, fielding of this popular armor vest is restricted for those outside of the program of record or for those who are, but want to spend O&M funds to jump in line, like the National Guard.

With long lead-times and high demand for the U.S. Army’s Modular Scalable Vest (MSV Gen II), PEO Soldier has required all purchases for approved MSV Gen II systems flow through their current contract. This has made the lead times of MSV Gen II vests for other branches take much longer than expected.

Custom Armor Group (CAG) and its strategic partners have designed the QR2 which can be seen above to the right of the issue MSV. The QR2 is a high performing armor system with similar user interface, visuals and profile while offering improved delivery times.

The QR2 will be available immediately for those units unable to wait the extended MSV Gen II lead times. 

The CAG QR2 was developed to offer a solution to meet demand and shorten lengthy lead times. This design utilizes manufacturing techniques and advanced materials which allow more efficient manufacturing and supply chain management.

The QR2 utilizes an NIJ 0101.06 (National Institute of Justice) certified, and First Article Tested/Approved package currently fielded by NAVSEA and CNIC. The package was created as an updated version of the former NAVSEA soft armor solution. This NIJ 0101.06 certified ballistic package also offers US Military FRAG protection (like the MSV Gen II) along with special threat protections.  Additionally, the upgraded ballistic offers all these advantages while showing a 25% weight reduction versus former NAVSEA ballistic package.

Other small advances in the QR2 are an improved inner carrier system and additional padding for user comfort. Still, the greatest advantage will be availability.

Samples are shipping to USAF for approval this month, giving USAF units MSV Gen II styling with USAF specifications (USAF currently requires min NIJ 0101.06 IIIA Protection). 

For more info contact sales@customarmorgroup.com

OKSI Awarded USSOCOM Contract for 81mm Mortar Precision Guidance Kit

July 12th, 2023

LOS ANGELES, July 11, 2023 — OKSI has been awarded a $2 million follow-on contract from USSOCOM to finalize their Precision Guidance Kit (PGK) for the 81mm mortar round. The screw on 81mm PGK will allow warfighters to precisely guide mortars onto the desired impact point or predesignated target. The mortar’s guidance system is able to find, fix, and lock onto target then uses pop-out control surfaces to steer the mortar down onto the tracked target. This contract aims at taking an area weapon known to be inaccurate and convert it to a precision munition that will provide first round effects.

The PKG provides a precision strike capability that is in the field commander’s back pocket,” says Chris HolmesParker, CEO, OKSI. “USSOCOM is a respected partner of ours and we are grateful to be working with them on numerous efforts. This award shows the trust and faith they have in the OKSI team to deliver a solution that needs to be extremely accurate and reliable when lives are on the line.”

OKSI’s PGK leverages detection and tracking algorithms developed in-house to transform a munition that previously had no guidance at all. This is a prime example of integrating new technologies into a weapon system that is organic to the ground unit to enhance their capabilities in the field. Previously, SOF units would have to wait on close-air-support for precision munition effects on target. Having the 81mm PGK on hand will significantly reduce the time it takes for soldiers to affect the enemy.

“We are proud to see our advanced technologies providing our warfighters with cutting-edge targeting capabilities for precision munitions such as the 81mm mortar,” says Christopher Shaub, Director of Strategic Partnerships, OKSI. “Our advanced seekers enhance our frontline capabilities, ensure desired effects, and reduce collateral damage and ammo expenditures. We thank SOCOM for recognizing our unique technology and providing us the opportunity to help our elite operators.”

Romania Orders Polaris DAGOR Ultralight Tactical Vehicles

July 11th, 2023

Minneapolis – July 11, 2023 – Polaris Government and Defense has been awarded a contract to provide its DAGOR ultralight tactical vehicle to Romania. More than 50 of the off-road and internally transportable vehicles will deliver enhanced tactical mobility to Romanian Armed Forces for current and emerging threats. Romania, a NATO member country, will receive the vehicles via the U.S. government’s foreign military sales (FMS) program, which seeks to build up forces and allies around the world, most recently with an emphasis in the European Command (EUCOM). The contract also includes upfit and spare parts for the vehicles as well as operator and maintenance training, which will be conducted in-country by Polaris field service representatives.

Interoperability is critical in today’s conflicts, and the Polaris DAGOR provides platform commonality to the special mission community, with customers around the world including U.S. forces, Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM), multiple European militaries and additional global forces. Polaris military vehicles have become force multipliers for expeditionary forces by extending mission range while mitigating operator fatigue and increasing mission readiness and capability.

Proven and reliable DAGOR ultralight tactical vehicles provide exceptional off-road mobility, payload and transportability – carrying warfighters and their gear, for a total payload of up to 4,000 pounds (1,814 kilograms). DAGOR uses a readily available commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) driveline, controls and components like a diesel/JP8 engine selected for its ideal combination of power, weight and size.

The DAGOR has a flexible and modular design that allows it to fulfill numerous missions and be reconfigured with shifting environments and evolving threats. The open design of the cargo bed maximizes loading space, flexibility and access for mission-essential equipment. An increased ride height – even at full payload – provides better obstacle clearance and improves off-road mobility.

DAGOR’s unique design and use of commercial components allows for ease of operation, maintenance and sustainment in support of combat operations. DAGOR can also be rapidly deployed and maintains airdrop, sling-load and internal tactical air transportability on CH-47 and CH-53 helicopters as well as internal transport aboard C-130 Hercules.

Polaris delivers a unique offering to Romanian Armed Forces – the company’s expertise in off-road mobility produces military vehicles that are designed for austere environments, allowing Romanian warfighters to travel through harsher off-road conditions at full payload at a faster pace than any other vehicles in this class. Romanian Armed Forces also have Polaris MV850 all-terrain vehicles and MRZR turbo diesel ultralight all-terrain vehicles.

Arctic mobility is also crucial for expeditionary and special operations forces and these specialized teams around the world turn to Polaris and its snowmobiles and modified tactical vehicles. An Arctic Mobility Package is now available for the MRZR Alpha. The fully enclosed cab and tracks expand the environments the MRZR Alpha can operate in and increase an already wide range of terrain for which it is well-suited. Polaris Snowmobiles can extend the reach of the operators in environments that would usually take days to cover on foot. Snowmobiles are an invaluable tool in deep snow and snow-covered mountainous terrain, which is normally a challenge for large-scale military movements. Titan and Pro-RMK snowmobiles have been modified to include blackout drive, IR light, winch kit and tow hitches – further increasing the ability to navigate treacherous terrain and reach remote areas efficiently.

Polaris designs and manufactures the most capable light tactical military vehicles available today with technology development and insertion for the battlefield of tomorrow. No one knows light off-road mobility like Polaris. Polaris light tactical vehicles – the MV850, MRZR turbo diesel, Alpha and DAGOR – support more than 50 military forces which is a testament to the capability gap these vehicles fulfill. These platforms provide unmatched off-road capability while also being intuitive to operate, simple to maintain, highly transportable and easy to globally support.

Nightforce Optics Sponsors The Tactical Games Athletes Jared Halbert & Megan Kennedy

July 11th, 2023

Orofino, ID – (July 10, 2023) – Nightforce Optics is excited to partner with two The Tactical Games competitors. The Tactical Games was created to test the skills and readiness of tactical athletes of all backgrounds and Nightforce is proud to be represented by two of the sports’ best athletes.

“Jared Halbert and Megan Kennedy are highly regarded athletes who have chosen to use Nightforce LPVO riflescopes both professionally and in competition environments. We are excited to have them on our team and look forward to continuing our support of The Tactical Games community.”

-Alexander Crown, Brand Manager of Nightforce Optics

As the former owner of The Tactical Games, Jared Halbert is back on the competition circuit to continue his already impressive resume of achievements. Halbert has won the 2020 & 2021 Men’s Elite National Championships along with 11 Elite Regional wins with a total of 14 Elite podium appearances. Halbert is also co-owner of the Texas Shooting Academy, a premier shooting event center within the state of Texas.

Megan Kennedy has served as a law enforcement officer for 10 years and as a SERT (Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team) member. Megan has been participating in The Tactical Games since 2019, and has competed in ten individual and team events. She was the National Champion in the 2021 Women’s Elite Division.

Since 1992, Nightforce Optics has been a leading manufacturer and marketer of premium riflescopes, spotting scopes, and accessories. Nightforce serves the needs of elite military forces, competitive shooters, and hunters around the world by building the most rugged, reliable, and repeatable optics available. Through meticulous attention to detail in design, production, and quality control, every Nightforce is expected to withstand the most punishing conditions imaginable. For additional information on Nightforce technology and products please visit www.NightforceOptics.com.

V Development Group – Megingjörð PRO, an AIWB-Specific Belt

July 11th, 2023

This is the newest version of our original AIWB-Specific belt design, the Megingjörð PRO.

It is called the PRO because it offers an industry-first type level of belt-side retention design. This retention design applies to any holster system, and any clip version or style, although we highly recommend that you use our DCC Clips and/or our seraph duty-grade AIWB Holster system. This is an upgrade to the already well-tested stiff section which the holster system is attached to. You would attach your holster’s clips inside this section and when you tighten the belt through the double-loops this section provides a level of holster retention that will exceed any concealed duty grade retention requirements.

There is a PALS-style webbing section that allows for a multitude of various blade sheath clips, or anything else you would like to attach to this section for further retention and concealment.

According to Old Norse, the Megingjörð (pronounced Meg-in-ye-ord) is the name of the belt worn by Thor, which translates into “power belt,” a big name for a big concept.

If you carry AIWB (Appendix Inside the Waist Band) then you know belt choice is extremely important. Simply buying a thick leather belt is often the only option for many or going out and getting some tactical-looking belt with a huge buckle. For those who have a lot of experience carrying in with an AIWB setup, they know that having the right belt matters, having big buckles, back-breaking rigid stiffness all around and pointless loops only adds to the detriment of carrying AIWB.

vdev.group/products/megingjord-pro-aiwb-specific-conceal-carry-belt

Smith & Wesson Releases New M&P 22 MAGNUM Designed with TEMPO Barrel System

July 11th, 2023

SPRINGFIELD, MA., (7/11/2023) – Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, today announces the release of the new M&P22 MAGNUM pistol, chambered in 22 WMR.

This latest addition to the M&P series is all about bringing more. More capacity, more reliability, and more features. Its internal hammer-fired design, paired with the TEMPO gas-operated barrel system, keeps components locked in place until the bullet passes the gas port, increasing performance. With a staggering 30-round capacity, the full-size polymer frame M&P22 MAGNUM ships with two magazines so you can spend less time reloading and more time training. It comes with a fiber optic front sight, black notched rear sight, and is optics-ready, allowing you to direct-mount most of the popular micro red dots available today.

“The M&P22 MAGNUM combines the best features of our internal hammer fire control system with the patented TEMPO barrel design, creating a smooth operating experience for the shooter. The 22 WMR is a versatile and field-savvy cartridge that has been a legacy among American shooters, hunters, and trappers for decades. Smith & Wesson is proud to offer a new pistol that further supports the use of this cartridge outdoors or on the range,” said John Myles, Senior Manager of New Products.

The M&P22 MAGNUM is fully ambidextrous, has a 4.35-inch stainless steel barrel with Armornite® finish, includes a flat-face trigger, and Picatinny-style rail for mounting accessories. This pistol is proudly made in the U.S.A. and has an MSRP of $649.00.

GET MORE – with the new M&P22 MAGNUM. For more information visit www.smith-wesson.com