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Allen-Vanguard Donate SCORPION ECM Training Equipment to Kenya’s International Peace Support Training Centre (Nairobi)

July 26th, 2023

Allen-Vanguard, a global leader in providing customized solutions for defeating Radio Frequency (RF) based terrorist and extremist threats, was recently invited to speak on global developments in Electronic Counter Measures (ECM) at the 5th African Annual C-IED Conference held the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC) Nairobi, Kenya. At the end of the event, Allen-Vanguard donated the training version of their SCOPRPION ECM manpacks to support future courses at the centre.

The guest of honour for the event was the Principal Secretary Ministry of Defence (The Honourable Patrick Mariru). Following a C-IED Technology Update briefing, Stuart Wilson from Allen-Vanguard presented Maj General Leuria (Assistant Chief of the Defence Forces, Operations, Plans, Doctrine and Training) inert versions of their SCORPION ECM manpacks, given their extensive use on the continent, to support future C-IEDD training for United Nations and African Union forces who deploy on peace keeping operations.

The IPSTC was established in partnership with the USA, UK, Canada, Japan, Kenya, Germany and UNDP to be the premier Peace Support Training, Research and Education Centre in Africa, with a mission to conduct training, education and research, informing military, police and civilian personnel in all aspects of peace support operations in order to improve the effectiveness of the response to complex emergencies for African Union nations and other countries. The annual C-IED conference is a 3-day gathering of international experts across policy, research and operations with the aim of sharing knowledge, best practice and future developments to improve the training and support of the 6000+ students that pass through the IPSTC before deploying on peace keeping operations.

As a key note speaker on C-IED Technology Update, Stuart Wilson (Allen-Vanguard – Business Development Director MENA) spoke specifically towards ECM. During his presentation, he explained the fundamentals of ECM, why it remains highly relevant, and how it reinforces the various levels of the C-IED pillars. Stuart also provided insight into potential future developments while highlighting design and operational constraints. After speaking, Sturt formally gifted the SCORPION training aids to the attending Generals and then provided training to the IPSTC instructors on their use and practical deployments considerations.

Bobby Strawbridge, Director Business Development for Allen-Vanguard said “We at Allen-Vanguard are very conscious that ECM equipment alone does not defeat the threat. Our vision is to create local capability, share knowledge, provide training and help to develop regional expertise so that those facing the greatest risk in peace keeping operations get the maximum possible protection. The IPSTC is a superb facility, training African nations in all aspects of peace keeping operations and we are more than happy to help contribute by supporting the defeat IED capability with our SCORPION training aids.”

www.allenvanguard.com

Posted in EW, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Allen-Vanguard Donate SCORPION ECM Training Equipment to Kenya’s International Peace Support Training Centre (Nairobi)

27th Special Operations Wing to Participate in Talisman Sabre 2023

July 26th, 2023

CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M —

The 27th Special Operations Wing will be supporting the tenth and largest iteration of the biennial Australian-led exercise, Talisman Sabre 2023, running from mid-July to early August.

Talisman Sabre is the largest bilateral military exercise between Australia and the United States, and provides an opportunity to strengthen relationships and interoperability amongst the key allies. The exercise is a demonstration of the strong alliance that is underpinned by deep levels of cooperation and trust built over decades of operating, training, and exercising together. Training together enhances the U.S. and Australia’s collective capability to support a free and open Indo-Pacific.

From the 27th Special Operations Wing, AC-130J Ghostrider gunships with the 17th Special Operations Squadron, an MC-130J Commando II with the 9th Special Operations Squadron, and the Mission Sustainment Team with the 27th Special Operations Support Squadron will participate in Exercise Talisman Sabre. Additionally, MC-130J Commandos with the 1st Special Operations Squadron at Kadena Air Base, Japan, will participate.

The 17th SOS AC-130Js are already in the Indo-Pacific theater supporting exercise Teak Action, another Australian-U.S. bilateral exercise. Their presence in Australia marks the first time AC-130s have ever flown to Australia and operated there, highlighting one of our most critical alliances in the region.

Several other units from across the Wing, to include members of the 27th Special Operations Maintenance Group and the 27th Special Operations Mission Support Group, will be providing the munitions, maintenance, and logistics necessary for effective deployment to the region.

“The 27th Special Operations Wing’s support to Talisman Sabre is historic. It reaffirms Air Force Special Operations Command’s commitment to the region and our partnerships to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Jeremy Bergin, 27th Special Operations Wing commander. “The ability to rapidly project power into the region from Cannon AFB not only builds trust with our allies and enhances our collective capabilities, but it intentionally prepares Cannon’s Air Commandos to respond to our nation’s call…any time, any place, anywhere.”

The 27th SOW’s participation in the upcoming iteration of Exercise Talisman Sabre is a testament to AFSOC’s shift to align with National Defense priorities.

While Talisman Sabre is jointly sponsored by U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and Australian Defence Force Headquarters Joint Operations Command, other nations participating are: Canada, Fiji, France, Germany, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, and United Kingdom.

27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

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USAF Flies with Angry Kitten Jamming Pod

July 25th, 2023

SAN DIEGO – 20 July 2023 – The U.S. Air Force flew a remotely piloted aircraft equipped with an Angry Kitten® ALQ-167 Electronic Warfare Countermeasure Pod for the first time on April 27, 2023. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. integrated the pod onto the aircraft.

The Angry Kitten EW Pod is supplied to the U.S. Air Force by the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) and has flown on other Department of Defense systems, including F-16s. GA-ASI integrated the EW pod in less than nine months at no cost to the U.S. Air Force by using a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement.

“It was great to see the Angry Kitten Pod on an Air Force platform for the first time,” said GA-ASI Vice President of DoD Strategic Development Patrick Shortsleeve. “Flying this EW capability on an MQ-9A demonstrates its possible use on future aircraft.”

The Air Force plans to continue flying with Angry Kitten Pods over the next 12 to 24 months to develop the best Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) to leverage EW capabilities in support of the Joint Force and partner nations.

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, EW, Guest Post, UAS | 2 Comments »

Samson Manufacturing Releases Polymer Version of Their Popular Mid-Length Grenade Style Vertical Grip

July 25th, 2023

Keene, New Hampshire – Samson Manufacturing Corp. has released a Polymer version of their Medium Grenade Style Vertical Grip. Samson Vertical Grips are renowned in the shooting world for their quality. The two-piece design allows you to remove the grip from the rifle while leaving the attachment lug in place. This must have rifle accessory has been constructed with high strength polymer, an ergonomic design with an aggressive texture for proper firearm control and can withstand heavy use without significant heat transfer.

Key features:

• Lightweight

• Heat Resistant

• Modular

• Durable

• Steel Attachment Rod

• Available in M-LOK®, KeyMod™, Evolution® and Picatinny Configurations

Specifications:

• Length 3.5”

• Weight Including Steel Attachment Rod 3 oz.

• Glass Filled Nylon 6

Shop Polymer Vertical Grips Here: Vertical Grips

Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Samson Manufacturing Releases Polymer Version of Their Popular Mid-Length Grenade Style Vertical Grip

High Speed Gear Reveals New EP Series: Elastic Mag Pouches

July 25th, 2023

SWANSBORO, N.C. – July 24th, 2023 – High Speed Gear, a leading provider of tactical gear and accessories, is excited to announce the release of their highly anticipated EP Series: Elastic Mag Pouches. Engineered to meet the demands of the modern combat scenario, the EP Series offers unparalleled versatility, a low-profile design, and a lightweight construction.

The EP Series Elastic Mag Pouches are specifically designed to fit a wide range of rifle, pistol, and extended pistol magazines, ensuring compatibility with popular firearms utilized by military personnel, law enforcement agencies, and responsible civilians. The innovative design allows for quick and easy access to magazines when every second counts.

Constructed with a woven polypropylene core, the EP Series provides a point of index for magazines during reinsertion, enhancing overall efficiency and speed during critical operations. Additionally, the rigidity of the pouch allows for seamless mounting on belts or carriers to ensure stability and security during active engagements.

One of the standout features of the EP Series is the Mini MOLLE capability, enabling users to not only MOLLE the pouch as usual, but also facilitating compatibility with belts that have non-standard MOLLE widths.

We took are time with this one, and we are as excited about the EP Series as we are with our TACO line,” says Bill Babboni, COO of High Speed Gear. “At High Speed Gear, our mission is to always provide tactical gear that meets the highest standards of performance and usability. With the Elastic Mag Pouches, we have achieved just that. The innovative design of the EP Series fits what end users have been asking for, a price point ready – durable and reliable mag pouch. The versatility of these pouches makes them an essential addition to any tactical rig or loadout.”

One of the key advantages of the EP Series is its lightweight and low-profile design. Made from a fabric laminate, the pouch can lay almost completely flat when empty, making it ideal for operators who prioritize speed and comfort. Whether it’s a high-intensity operation or a long-range patrol, the EP Series ensures that users can move swiftly and effortlessly.

These Elastic Mag Pouches will be offered alongside High Speed Gear’s existing product lineup of top-quality tactical gear, including the infamous TACO® mag pouches, further enhancing their commitment to providing innovative solutions for professionals and enthusiasts.

For more information about the EP Series: Elastic Mag Pouches, visit their website at www.highspeedgear.com.

www.highspeedgear.com/elastic-rifle-pouch

www.highspeedgear.com/elastic-pistol-pouch

www.highspeedgear.com/elastic-extended-pistol-pouch

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, Press Release | Comments Off on High Speed Gear Reveals New EP Series: Elastic Mag Pouches

In a Class of its Own: The Adept Armor Thunder, the Lightest Level 3+ Body Armor Plate

July 25th, 2023

An unprecedented balance of protection and mobility, the patent-pending Adept Armor Thunder, at just 3.45 lbs., is nearly 20 percent lighter than any other plate in its class.

Tulsa, Okla. (July 2023) – Adept Armor, an armor system engineering firm, introduces the Thunder body armor RF2/Level 3+ plate – a lightweight torso plate that offers class-leading protection at an ultra-light weight of just 3.45 pounds at 10×12”.

For several years, Adept Armor has been researching advanced silicate strike-face materials to develop the ultimate in lightweight body armor plates. This culminated in the development of Amorphoid – a low-density/high-hardness glass-ceramic material which can outperform conventional ceramic and metallic strike-face materials in plates designed to stop “light AP” and steel-cored ball rounds.

Amorphoid is indefinitely stable and insensitive to extremes of heat, cold, and pressure. It is ceramic-like, but inherently lighter – roughly 12% less dense than boron carbide and 30% less dense than silicon carbide – and it can be made in very thin monolithic tile profiles.

Integrating the latest Amorphoid technology into the design and production of the new Thunder armor plates, Adept Armor has achieved the goal of producing the lightest weight body armor plate on the market today, without sacrificing its ability to attain full RF2/Level 3+ performance. The patent-pending Thunder integrates Amorphoid, a chemically-treated, phase-change silicate core, making it 15% lighter than its nearest competitor, and more than 25% lighter than the average plate in its category, while offering complete protection from all common rifle threats.

Previous to the Thunder body armor plate, customers had a choice between a lightweight plate, but without the ability to stop M855 or analogous steel-core threats; or the heavy ceramic-faced or steel plates which would stop steel-core threats. There was no one-plate-fits-all available, until now. The 10-inch by 12-inch SAPI-style multicurve Thunder plate offers the best of both worlds; protection from steel-core threats in a lightweight platform comparable to the polyethylene plates. The full-sized Thunder strike-face offers full edge-to-edge Amorphoid coverage.

“We believe that the design and development of an armor plate is a problem defined by its specification – in this case RF2 – to which there must be a theoretically optimal solution. Given the current state of materials science, the Thunder plate is the optimal solution in its category – and it will eventually come to define the upper-bound of performance in that category. Its development required novel materials and methods, of which we’re very proud,” commented Jake Ganor, CEO of Adept Armor.

Adept Armor’s new Thunder body armor plate leads the industry in combining superior threat protection with lightweight, maneuverable body armor systems. The Thunder is ideal for military use in low-intensity threat environments, and for police and security personnel, as well as citizens looking to protect themselves and their families from a broad spectrum of rifle threats, without weighing themselves down.

Adept Armor Thunder Specifications:

Weight: 3.45 lbs.

Thickness: 1.17 inch

Materials: Amorphoid -UHMWPE composite

Curvature: Multi-curved to military SAPI specifications

Size: 10-inch by 12-inch with full edge-to-edge Amorphoid coverage

Ballistic rating:

RF2 rated for:

7.62x39mm MSC

5.56x45mm M193

5.56x45mm M855/SS109

7.62x51mm M80 Ball

7.62x54mmR LPS

And similar and lesser threats.

MSRP: $550.00

For more information on Adept Armor visit their website.

Posted in Armor, Press Release | 3 Comments »

Tasmanian Tiger Introduces the TT Plate Carrier QR LC for Lightweight Plate Carrier Needs

July 25th, 2023

This lightweight plate carrier is designed to offer a sleek and modern look, with a MOLLE system in laser-cut technology.

Knoxville, Tenn. (July 2023) – Tasmanian Tiger®, a tactical nylon line of products distributed exclusively for the US market by Proforce Equipment, Inc., has announced its latest product, the TT Plate Carrier QR LC. This lightweight plate carrier is designed to offer a sleek and modern look, with a MOLLE system in laser-cut technology.

“We are thrilled to launch the TT Plate Carrier QR LC for the U.S. market,” commented Richard Lewis, President and CEO of Proforce Equipment, Inc. “This plate carrier is the perfect choice for those who require a lightweight and customizable solution for their tactical needs. With its sleek design and innovative features, we believe the TT Plate Carrier QR LC will quickly become a popular choice among the military and law enforcement communities.

The TT Plate Carrier QR LC is designed to fit SAPI plates of 12 x 10 in. (30 x 25 cm). It features a quick-release system with ROC buckle, which allows the wearer to quickly and easily remove the plate carrier in case of an emergency. The shoulder straps are adjustable, ranging from a minimum of 11 in. (28 cm) to a maximum of 20 in. (52 cm), providing a comfortable and customized fit for all users.

One of the most notable features of the TT Plate Carrier QR LC is its laser-cut MOLLE system, which gives the plate carrier a clean and streamlined look. The front and side areas of the plate carrier also feature a MOLLE system, which allows for individual customization and extension.

Additionally, the TT Plate Carrier QR LC is compatible with many other TT products, allowing for seamless integration. The plate carrier also includes an integrated radio equipment pocket and switchable side sections for using pouches for ballistic side plates.

The TT Plate Carrier QR LC weighs 2.87 lbs. and is made from Cordura® 700 Denier (Multicam 500 Denier). It is available in Black, Olive, and Coyote for an MSRP of $379.00 and Multicam for an MSRP of $399.00.

Click to see the 2023 Tasmanian Tiger New Items digital catalog here or the Vol 3 product digital catalog. Find a local dealer here for any of the exciting Tasmanian Tiger products.

Stay in the conversation by following on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. All sales inquiries can be directed to tt@tasmaniantigerusa.com.

Posted in Armor, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Performance Nutrition in the Special Warfare Training Wing

July 25th, 2023

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas — At 6 a.m., the sky was still dark and the fog had yet to roll off the base, but the Special Warfare Training Wing had been buzzing with activity for hours. Tactical Air Control Party students lined up for their morning workout behind Kyle Smithson, the schoolhouse’s dietitian, as he walked into the building, rolling his Urine Specific Gravity test kit behind him.

Two sections of students were scheduled to start field training the next week, which means a series of long days and heavy movement under the hot Texas sun to prepare them for even longer days when they graduate to operational units. As the dietitian, Smithson has briefed the students on the importance of staying hydrated and the warning signs of dehydration, and now, a few days before they head to field week, he’s testing their urine samples to identify dehydrated students so they can proactively hydrate over the weekend.

“I’ll be in the field with the students to make sure they’re eating and drinking properly,” Smithson said. “But testing and hydrating ahead of time reduces the risk of heat exhaustion.”

After compiling results from the sample, Smithson stops by the commander’s office to give him the list of dehydrated students, and then he completes a series of body composition tests for both instructors and students, providing personal recommendations based on their body’s muscle and fat composition, and their individual goals. Next, he makes his rounds through every classroom, checking the stock of healthy snacks and drinks to make sure students have what their bodies need within easy reach.

“Throughout their careers, these students will be exposed to toxins from gun powder, jet fuel and more, so it’s very important they’re careful with what they put into their body,” Smithson said. “They learn that intentionality here.”

Across the country, on Pope Airfield in North Carolina, Tech Sgt. Kirk Luzano, the diet tech for the combat control, special reconnaissance and special tactics officer apprentice courses, sets up breakfast for the students. While they eat, he checks in with one of the students who underperformed in that morning’s physical fitness session. The trainee hadn’t fueled appropriately, so Luzano helps him come up with a better plan for next time. Luzano then walks around the room, answering questions the students have about proper fueling for the upcoming training.

“We teach that nutrition can make a great athlete good or a good athlete great,” Luzano said. “It doesn’t matter how good or gifted you are, your performance can be affected if you don’t understand basic nutrition, or if you don’t apply what you know into your everyday routine.”

“Nutrition can make a great athlete good or a good athlete great”

Tech Sgt. Kirk Luzano

Depending on the day’s training, Special Warfare Training Wing dietitians and diet techs will recommend different foods. Students in special warfare pipelines require a generally higher caloric intake than most athletes, and on days with high-intensity training, the team recommends meals with more carbohydrates. According to Smithson, students often enter the pipeline trying to increase muscle mass by prioritizing proteins and skipping carbohydrates, however, carbohydrates fuel the brain and the body, so completing the mentally and physically rigorous special warfare training without adequate carbohydrates is near impossible.

However, knowing what to eat is only half the battle. Luzano says that students need to understand which food and beverages help replenish electrolytes, specifically sodium, and when to reach for them. To maximize performance, students must know when their bodies need water versus a sports drink, or when they should reach for a protein bar versus a sports gel. However, even this process is highly individualized—according to Smithson, people have various levels of salt in their sweat, and those with saltier sweat will perform better by opting for sports drinks and gels that have higher sodium levels.

While training, students have access to these individualized recommendations and guidance, but after they earn their berets, special warfare operators still need to stay in peak mental and physical shape. This is why Captain Lynnsee Moberg, the chief of performance nutrition for the Special Warfare Training Wing, says her team prioritizes education. Smithson, Luzano and their colleagues don’t just provide recommendations, they teach, guide and educate students so they can practice performance nutrition throughout their entire careers.

“Air Force Special Warfare operators who exercise and train for extended periods during the day need to fuel their bodies differently than the average fitness enthusiast,” Moberg said. “It’s the same with cars. High-performance vehicles and off-road trucks are both great cars, but they serve different purposes and require very different amounts and kinds of fuel.”

This is why on day one of training, candidates take a class on performance nutrition, learning the ins and outs of correctly fueling for success. Immediately after the class, Moberg’s team joins the students in the dining facility for lunch and provides feedback on each candidate’s plate. From then on, candidates become accustomed to seeing dietitians and diet techs not only in the dining facility, but on rucks, in the field and during daily physical fitness sessions.

For information from the human performance team, follow the Special Warfare Human Performance Support Group on Facebook.

By Miriam A. Thurber, Special Warfare Training Wing

Posted in AFSW, Air Force, Guest Post | 4 Comments »