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DoD Releases Small Business Strategy

February 10th, 2023

WASHINGTON (AFNS) —

The Department of Defense released its Small Business Strategy Jan. 26. The strategy promotes a strong, dynamic, and robust small business industrial base by focusing on reducing barriers to entry, increasing set-aside competitions, and leveraging programs to grow the industrial base.

“From manufacturers providing the critical parts that we need for our arsenal – to technology companies developing innovative systems and capabilities – small businesses are vital along the entire spectrum of the Department’s needs,” Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks said. “Reducing barriers and creating more opportunities for small businesses will allow us to expand, innovate, and diversify, increasing our warfighter advantage, strengthening our supply chains, increasing competition in our marketplace, and growing our economy here at home.”

Small businesses make up 99.9% of all U.S. businesses as well as 73% of companies in the defense industrial base, and last year small businesses were awarded over 25% of all DoD prime contracts. As the economic engine of our nation, small businesses create jobs, generate innovation, and are essential, daily contributors to national security and the defense mission. This strategy will help DoD harness the full potential of small businesses through three objectives: implement a unified management approach for small business programs and activities; ensure the Department’s small business activities align with national security priorities; and strengthen the Department’s engagement and support of small businesses.

“Fostering a resilient and robust industrial base is one of my top priorities,” said Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment Dr. William LaPlante. “Supporting small businesses is not just about meeting a goal or checking a box; it’s about building advantages for our warfighters. All of American industry, especially our innovative small businesses, has a role in developing, delivering, and sustaining the critical capabilities that are required to further implement the National Defense Strategy.”

“Small businesses are crucial to national security,” Director of the Office of Small Business Programs Farooq Mitha added. “Our military depends on small businesses that bring innovation and agility to support DoD’s mission. From providing critical component parts, to cutting edge software platforms, to essential services, small businesses provide support across nearly the entirety of the Department of Defense.”

As part of DoD’s efforts to strengthen support of small businesses, this strategy focuses on stepping up engagement with industry, including providing more tools and resources. This engagement and training effort will be facilitated by the Department’s 96 APEX Accelerators located across the country, formerly known as the Procurement Technical Assistance Centers, which serve as a resource for small businesses to increase their readiness, help them find opportunities to do business with the Department and accelerate their insertion into the defense marketplace.

The Office of Small Business Programs encourages those interested in working with DoD to read a “Guide to Marketing to DoD” here.

The Small Business Strategy can be found here.

Department of Defense News

Posted in Guest Post, Industry | 2 Comments »

Blackhawk Sponsors Tactical Athlete Ehea Schuerch

February 9th, 2023

Brand to Serve as 2023 Tactical Games Platinum Sponsor

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – February 8, 2023 – Blackhawk®, a leader in law enforcement and military equipment for over 20 years, is proud to announce its sponsorship of tactical athlete Ehea Schuerch for the 2023 Tactical Games. Schuerch is one of the sport’s up and coming female competitors and the 2023 season marks her second year of competition as well as Blackhawk’s second year of sponsorship for The Tactical Games.

A Spokane, Washington native, Schuerch began competing at The Tactical Games in 2022, where she quickly became one of the games’ fiercest competitors. She placed third at the Bend, Oregon competition and second at the Phoenix, Arizona competition which sealed her national’s qualification. At last year’s National Championship in Florence, Texas, Schuerch placed second amongst a group of 15 elite female competitors.

Outside of competition, Schuerch has served as a corrections officer at the Spokane County Jail for seven years, where she is also the only female to join the jail’s Correctional Response Team (CRT). Additionally, she has served as a defensive tactics instructor for nearly six years, is EMT certified and has competed in regional and national CrossFit competitions since 2016. In 2017 she placed first at the Bi-Annual World Police and Fire Games, and in 2018 placed 17th overall at the World CrossFit Games.

“I’m honored to be backed by a tried-and-true company like Blackhawk and feel confident knowing that I’m running the best gear in competition and for my regular everyday carry,” said Schuerch. “The Tactical Games is paving the way as a new sport by combining firearms and fitness, and it reflects the training that I’ve been doing for several years on the job. I enjoy the test it places on an individual’s physical preparedness, and I look forward to sharing with others my personal journey this season.”

For 2023, Blackhawk will serve as Platinum Sponsor for The Tactical Games. Attracting some of the best professional and amateur tactical athletes nationwide, The Tactical Games have become a proving ground for the latest in cutting-edge tactical gear. The games’ intense physical nature and marksmanship tests require efficient gear setups that prioritize firearm security, retention and accessibility as well as comfort and weight – all tenants at the center of Blackhawk’s designs.

Schuerch’s first competition with Team Blackhawk is at The Tactical Games Mississippi Regional, which takes place on February 18-19 in Meridian, Mississippi. During the competition, Schuerch plans to utilize the Blackhawk Foundation Series Plate Carrier and T-Series holster as part of her go-to-kit.

To learn more about The Tactical Games, head over to thetacticalgames.com, and to learn more about Blackhawk or to see their full lineup of holsters and tactical gear, check out Blackhawk.com.

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Wilde Custom Gear Offers “Red Dawn” Camouflage Option

February 9th, 2023

For a limited time you can get Wilde Custom Gear’s design in what they are calling “Red Dawn” camouflage which mimics the KLMK pattern worn by Soviet troops in the 1980s cult classic movie “Red Dawn”. Get yours before it’s gone.

wildecustomgear.com

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TangoDown – Vickers Tactical Steel Magazine Release for G43X/G48

February 9th, 2023

TangoDown® Inc. announces newest item to the Vickers Tactical™ lineup: Steel Magazine Release for G43X/G48 (GMR-007S). We teamed up with Addtac MFG. to have our existing GMR-007 magazine release created in steel. This steel magazine release is compatible for use with the Shield Arms® S15 steel magazines. The GMR-007S is the same shape as the existing magazine release, but offers the durability needed to function with steel magazines.

Features:

– All steel composition for compatibility with Shield Arms® S15 Steel Magazines

– Extended and contoured for easy manipulation

– Ambidextrous

– Durable black nitride finish

For use with G43X and G48 ONLY.

NOT for use with OEM GLOCK® factory magazines or other polymer magazines.

MSRP: $31.00

**If you are not familiar with modifying your firearms, seek appropriate assistance from a Certified Armorer or Gunsmith.

For more information on the GMR-007S, visit: tangodown.com/vickers-tactical-steel-magazine-release-for-glock-43x-48

Customer Questions: sales@tangodown.com

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Beez Combat Systems PAPR Pouch and CBRN Tube Covers

February 9th, 2023

BCS PAPR Pouch and CBRN Tube Covers.

Available Now.

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Burris Introduces Next-Gen Rifle Scope: The Veracity PH

February 9th, 2023

Burris Optics, a leading manufacturer of hunting optics, has introduced a new rifle scope they say aims to revolutionize the industry. As they tell it, the Veracity PH 4-20x50mm is packed with cutting-edge features such as the Programmable Elevation Knob (PEK) system, high-quality optics, and other high-tech goodies. Get ready for a detailed look at the impressive features of the Burris Veracity PH 4-20x50mm.

Let’s see what Burris had to say in the rest of the release.

The Burris Optics: Veracity PH 4-20x50mm

Burris Optics, known for pushing optics forward with products like the Eliminator Riflescope and Oracle Bowsight, has introduced a revolutionary rifle optic, the new Veracity PH 4-20x50mm.

Featuring the new PEK (Programable Elevation Knob) system, premium optical clarity, a built-in Heads-Up Display (HUD), and Bluetooth connectivity for uploading custom ballistic data from the new BurrisConnect Mobile App, the Veracity PH takes hunter confidence and performance to the highest level.

The most precise hunting optic ever produced by Burris, the Veracity PH 4-20x50mm introduces features that redefine what is possible in a riflescope. In addition, it sets a new standard for confident point-of-aim/point-of-impact performance at extended distances.

These features build on years of research and development to “do the math” for the shooter and achieve precise shot placement easily and efficiently. It provides an accurate dialing solution extremely fast, eliminating time lost to hesitantly fumbling with dope cards and data sheets. Instead, it allows hunters to apply valuable time to focus on getting clean, controlled shots on unpredictable targets.

This complex-to-simple performance centers on Veracity PH’s PEK (pronounced “peak”) system and a robust yet easy-to-assess heads-up display showing the exact dialed distance, wind hold, rifle cant, and battery level. With user-configurable and uploadable ballistic data via Bluetooth connectivity through the BurrisConnect App, hunters can be assured of precise aiming.

A digital position sensor in the scope’s clickless elevation turret achieves 1/10 MOA equivalent adjustability for near exact dial-in to distance in yards or meters—unprecedented precision in today’s conventional scope technology. Additional ¼ MOA laser markings on the elevation turret provide redundancy for peace of mind on any hunt allowing the shooter to still dial to distance and complete their no matter the circumstances. Simply range the target using any rangefinder, dial to the distance in Yards or Meters displayed on the scope HUD, and fire.

The Veracity PH utilizes stand-alone programming in a fail-proof platform, and Wi-Fi or cell service is not needed to use the BurrisConnect App after it has been downloaded. Bluetooth connectivity between the mobile device and scope is required only when uploading ballistics or changing scope settings, making this a proper “set-and-forget” system. With this app-to-scope integration, shooters can create customized ballistic profiles for multiple bullet weights, rifles, and shooting locations and easily upload the desired profile whenever needed.

Boasting a 5x zoom system and high-performance glass with exceptional brightness and clarity, the Veracity PH is built around the award-winning Veracity 4-20x50mm, covering the needs of hunters engaging game close-up or far away in all lighting conditions. The Wind MOA FFP reticle is a front focal plane design, making hold-off and hold-over compensation accurate at any magnification. Side focus/parallax adjustment ensures the target image matches the reticle focal point from 50 yards to infinity, thereby eliminating parallax error on extended-range shots. Both windage and elevation turrets feature zero turn-stop adjustments, so shooters never lose zero.

Burris set out to provide hunters with a class-leading rifle scope that bridges the gap between today’s advanced ammunition and firearm technology. It’s a solution for shooters of all experience levels seeking a fast, reliable, and uncomplicated aiming solution for any hunting scenario – and thanks to Gun University, mounting the scope with the right rings will be an equally simple task.

With its easy-to-use operation, intuitive data presentation, and ability to work with custom ballistic profiles, the new Burris Veracity PH 4-20x50mm can maximize every hunter’s potential for success in the field.

Burris Veracity PH 4-20x50mm Specifications

Item Number: 200200
Magnification: 4-20x50mm
Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
Tube Diameter: 30mm
Field of View (Low to High @ 100 yards): 26 – 5.5 ft.
Eye relief (in.): 3.5 – 4.25
Exit Pupils – Low / High (mm): 12 – 2.5
Diopter Setting: +2 to -3
Reticle Plane: Front
Display Plane: Rear
Reticle: Wind MOA FFP
Display Illumination: Rotary Dial, 5 illumination settings
Battery: CR 2450 x2
Length (in.): 15
Weight (oz.): 27.2
Elevation Turret Marking Graduations: ¼ MOA
Elevation Turret Digital Resolution: 1/10 MOA
Total Elevation Adjustment Range*: 66 MOA
Elevation Turret Travel Limit**: 33.8 MOA
Windage Turret Graduations (Clicks): ¼ MOA
Total Windage Adjustment Range*: 37 MOA
Windage Turret Travel Limit**: 24 MOA
Parallax Focus: Side Focus
Parallax/Focus Range: 50 Yd. to Infinity
Operating Temperature: -20° to +140° F
MSRP: $1,200

* Example: 50 MOA total adjustment range equates to roughly 25 MOA in either direction from center.

** Rotation-limited dial (12 MOA left or right from zero position)

For a complete overview of the Veracity PH 4-20x50mm rifle scope, including an unboxing video and tutorial videos, check out BurrisOptics.com.

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5.11 Announces the Return of ABR Academy Classes for 2023 in Collaboration with USCCA

February 9th, 2023

Plans for more than 300 classes to take place at 5.11-owned retail locations

COSTA MESA, Calif. (Feb. 8, 2023) – 5.11 Tactical, the global innovator of Purpose-Built Gear™, today announced the return of its popular ABR (Always Be Ready) Academy in 2023 in collaboration with the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA). Together, the companies plan to host more than 300 free instructional classes at 5.11-owned retail locations across the U.S. to provide tips, tactics and insight on readiness skills for local community members.

“Last month marked 20 years for 5.11 on our quest to develop innovative gear for life’s most demanding missions. We strive to help our families, friends and communities be prepared for anything to happen,” said 5.11’s CEO, Francisco Morales. “The ABR Academy is designed to help attendees become more equipped for challenges and emergencies by building proper mindsets, readiness skills and gear. It’s all part of living the 5.11 mantra of Always Be Ready.”

The ABR Academy classes will provide first-hand learning and guidance on topics ranging from building emergency preparedness kits and bug-out bags to self-defense and trauma care. Each course is free to attend and will be hosted by certified experts, including instructors from the USCCA.

“Our mission is to save lives and help build safer, more prepared communities through education and training,” said Tim Schmidt, President and Co-founder of the USCCA. “Collaborating with 5.11 on the ABR Academy classes will help us strengthen that mission while reaching thousands of attendees in communities all across the country.”

The USCCA is the largest, fastest-growing self-defense association dedicated to responsible firearm owners, with over 700,000 members and 10,000 instructors nationwide. It offers industry-leading training, lifesaving education and self-defense liability insurance to help members build preparedness and confidence.

“Like 5.11, USCCA also celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, and similarly, has been at the forefront of providing education and readiness training for communities across the U.S. for several years now,” added Morales. “We’re thrilled to work with them throughout 2023 and look forward to helping more folks learn to Always Be Ready.”

For more information about 5.11’s ABR Academy and collaboration with the USCCA, or to find an ABR Academy class near you, please visit 511abracademy.usconcealedcarry.com.

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53rd Wing’s MUSTANGS: The Future Of Agile Data Capture And ACE Capability

February 9th, 2023

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) —

The 59th Test and Evaluation Squadron hit major milestones in the development and testing of their Multi-Utilization Secure Tactical and Network Ground Station, or MUSTANGS, through its recent participation in Pacific Edge 22.

During the exercise, MUSTANGS proved its ability to process, curate, and send F-35A Lightning II data over-the-horizon to a reprogramming laboratory, all in a matter of minutes.

Part of the Crowd-Sourced Flight Data program, MUSTANGS is a mobile vehicle that can download, process, and offload important data from Quick Reaction Instrumentation Package-equipped aircraft without the need for fixed, operational test infrastructure.

“Right now, MUSTANGS are for the test community, but it has massive operational implications,” said Lt. Col. Nathan Malafa, 59th TES commander. “Our intent is to reduce risk and show the CAF (Combat Air Forces) the value of obtaining and communicating data from the operational edge.”

Before MUSTANGS, edge-collected data had to be downloaded in a secure facility, transferred to a hard drive or disk, and hand-delivered to a data customer; an outdated process that is cumbersome and too slow for the rapidly changing operational environment.

With MUSTANGS, however, the 59th TES has proven that data processing is flexible, reliable, deployable, and most importantly: immediate.

“A modern, contested environment is constantly changing,” Malafa said. “The faster and more accurate data is made available to decision makers, the more likely the warfighter will succeed over the adversary.”

The 59th TES is looking to generate another MUSTANGS milestone during the upcoming exercise, Northern Edge 23. The team plans to use F-35s participating in the exercise to find a unique waveform in the operating environment, transfer that data to MUSTANGS, curate the data, and make it available to the U.S. Reprogramming Laboratory, which is managed by the 513th Electronic Warfare Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. The 513th EWS is responsible for producing Mission Data Files for all U.S. F-35s, including those flown by the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, making them the most lethal and survivable combat aircraft.

Once the 513th EWS receives the data, they analyze and action it to reprogram and updated MDF, push it to the MUSTANG, and load it back on the F-35s prior to their next flight. This process normally takes days to weeks and has never been accomplished before in a matter of hours.

“Data evolutions like MUSTANGS turn edge data into information rapidly, which is exactly the kind of innovation we need to stay ahead in the modern age of warfare,” Malafa said. “There is no doubt that those who can transmit information at the speed of relevance will win.”

By 1st Lt Lindsey Heflin, 53rd Wing Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Comms, Guest Post | 2 Comments »