SureFire

Hydra Weaponry Introduces the Hydra 10

March 27th, 2024

Based on customer requests, Hydra Weaponry introduces the Hydra 10; a powerful and highly accurate .308 rifle with caliber conversion barrels available soon.

Hermon, Maine (March 2024) – Hydra Weaponry, Maine’s largest firearms employer, designers, and manufacturers of the truly modular MARCK-15 Hydra® Weapon System, unveil the Hydra 10, a .308 with the hard-hitting performance expected of this leading American AR-rifle manufacturer.

Based on customer demands, the Hydra 10 is built upon years of research, development, and real-world testing. It combines advanced engineering with user-centric features to deliver a rifle platform that excels in any scenario. From long-range precision shooting to tactical applications, the Hydra 10 offers unmatched adaptability and performance.

Key features of the Hydra 10 include:

• Modular Design: The Hydra 10 features a modular architecture that allows for easy customization and adaptation to suit individual preferences and mission requirements. The Hydra 10 is the base model for future caliber configurations. All that will be required to change calibers will be a barrel and bolt exchange. Stay tuned for new calibers in the near future.

• .308 Caliber Precision: Engineered to deliver exceptional accuracy and ballistic performance, the Hydra 10 is chambered in the renowned .308 Winchester caliber. Whether hunting larger game or used as a tactical weapon for professional use, users can rely on the Hydra 10 to deliver decisive results with every shot.

• Robust Construction: Crafted from premium materials and subjected to rigorous quality control standards, the Hydra 10 is built to withstand the harshest conditions and the most demanding missions. The Hydra 10 is built on a BLK Systems stock and pistol grip, with a Quick-Change Barrel Upper Receiver (QCB-D), and runs on a standard SR-25 magazine with a DPMS pattern.

• Advanced Features: Equipped with advanced features such as a crisp trigger, ergonomic controls, and a smooth cycling action, the Hydra 10 ensures optimal performance and shooter comfort. Additionally, compatibility with a wide range of accessories and optics further enhances the Hydra 10’s versatility and effectiveness in the field.

“We are proud to introduce the Hydra 10, a rifle platform that embodies our commitment to innovation, quality, and performance,” said Mack Gwinn III, CEO at Hydra Weaponry. “The Hydra 10 represents a new standard of excellence in the world of .308 caliber rifles.”

The Hydra 10 is available in 16” and 18” length barrels, and in black or coyote tan, with an MSRP of $2,349.00.

For more information on Hydra Weaponry, visit the new website at www.hydraweaponry.com.

USSOCOM Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) – Digital Projection Close Quarters Sight (DP-CQS)

March 27th, 2024

This upcoming USSOCOM Small Business Innovation Research topic is pretty exciting.

The objective of Digital Projection Close Quarters Sight (DP-CQS) is to develop applied research toward an innovative solution that will provide a compact, close-quarters sight that has multiple user-selectable and user-configurable ballistic reticles, while eliminating mechanical adjustors to improve system stability under thermal and mechanical shock by utilizing a digital screen projected onto a transparent surface for the user to look/aim through.

On 01 April, SOFWERX will host a virtual Q&A session for the DP-CQS area of interest. Soon after, on 10 April 2024 12:00 PM ET (Noon), submissions will open.

As a part of this feasibility study, the proposers shall address all viable overall system design options with respective specifications to innovatively design a 1x (non-magnified) direct view optic that projects a digital screen/reticle onto a transparent surface for the operator to look/aim through. The DP-CQS shall allow the user to configure and store at least 3 different digital reticle configurations with different types of ballistic features and shall include the ability for the center dot/aim point to be brighter than other displayed features. The DP-CQS shall have no mechanical boresight adjustors and shall be designed as a sealed optical system with low Size Weight and Power (SWaP) with a 72-hour continuous battery run time, utilizing no more than 1x CR123 or L91 battery. The DP- CQS shall communicate with external devices to receive range/ballistic data, and user configured/updated reticles. The feasibility study should consider technologies to eliminate scattering of light to provide a sharp edge to all reticle features, while also minimizing unwanted color shift of the direct-view scene. The DP-CQS shall mount to a MIL-STD 1913 Rail.

Visit events.sofwerx.org/sbir24-4r5 to sign up and answer any questions.

Rotapoint Systems – Griptrap

March 27th, 2024

It was great to see Rotapoint Systems in the vendor tent at last week’s USASOC Sniper Competition. In addition to their Watch Caps which piggyback MRDS on to variable power optics, they showed me their new Griptrap which is an ergonomically enhanced MLOK hand stop.

As you can see from this composite image, the Griptrap is designed to support your natural grip rather than forcing you to contort your hand on the handguard.

Another thing I like about this simple design is that it can’t be used to either keep you from dangling your appendages too close to the barrel or, as I prefer, to allow me to pull the rifle back in to my shoulder. What’s more, it’s as effective under the barrel as at the 3 or 9 o’clock position.

Finally, there are three variants, based on user preference.

Sneak Peek – The Swedish Nipple from EDS

March 27th, 2024

I was surprised that no one asked yesterday about the pouch mounted to the lower left of the upcoming ESD Kestrel Chest Rig.

The guys at Edgar Sherman Design were recently working with some representatives from our newest NATO partner Sweden when they noticed a button closure on some of their gear. Unfortunately, this closure is quite dated and no longer in production but it does a great job of keeping flaps closed. Additionally, it’s not affected by snow and ice and can be manipulated while wearing handwear.

Consequently, ESD went to work creating their take on the button, naming it the “Swedish Nipple.” It is made from polymer and is slightly texturized for a positive grip, even when wet. You’ll soon find it on pouches where you want positive retention, like this pistol mag pouch.

www.edgarshermandesign.com

HSP Presents: Battle of Najaf 20TH Anniversary Event & Limited Edition Print

March 27th, 2024

In honor of the 20th anniversary of the battle of Najaf, Haley Strategic Partners is holding an open house from 9AM to 9PM. Additionally, beginning on Thursday, April 4th and ending Sunday April 7th, 2024, they will be celebrating by offering 20% Off Site Wide as well as at their Headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona.

April 4th, 2024 will mark the 20th Anniversary of the Battle of Al-Najaf, Iraq. It was on that day in 2004 that a small team of coalition forces and Blackwater Contractors faced off against the overwhelming force of the Mahdi Army. In spite of the many obstacles stacked against them, acts of courage, duty, and perseverance enabled the defending coalition and Blackwater Contractors to hold off the Mahdi Army while Blackwater Air Teams provided critical sustainment equipment and life saving evacuation efforts. The Battle of Al-Najaf represents one of the largest insurgent attacks during the Iraq War, we stand together on 4/4 in remembrance of the brave men who selflessly risked everything to save their brothers.

HSP has something else up their sleeve as well. Black Powder Red Earth‘s Creative Director, Jon Chang, and Artist, Josh Taylor, created an original piece of art to remember and honor those who answered the call for help without hesitation on that day.

This one of a kind piece of art which will be offered in three sizes/mediums: 13”x13”, 30”x30”, and a custom 60”x60” Dibond® Aluminum print.

Full details here.

Netherlands’ RIOT Police Unit Equipped with Flame Retardant Uniforms from UF PRO

March 27th, 2024

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (22.03.2024)

UF PRO, a leading name in the tactical clothing industry, unveiled its latest flame retardant uniform designed for the Netherlands’ crowd and riot control operations during a public debut at the event held in Ossendrecht, Netherlands.

Over 3,500 Sets Deployed for Enhanced Operations

In collaboration with Gear Point, UF PRO’s distributor in the Netherlands, the National Police Services Agency (Politiedienstencentrum) has equipped their RIOT Police Unit (Mobiele Eenheid) with these advanced uniforms. The initial deployment plan includes 3,500 uniform sets for deployment in 2024.

Innovative Flame Retardant Uniforms

The newly introduced uniform system features several flame retardant (FR) components, including the Striker X FR Combat Pants, Striker X FR Combat Shirt, Delta Eagle Gen.3. FR Jacket, and Monsoon XT Gen.2 FR Rain Jacket.

Darko Radoš Roth, Sales Manager at UF PRO, expressed enthusiasm about the innovative design, stating:

“UF PRO is setting new standards in the development of crowd and riot control uniform systems with its innovative dual-use design. This design allows for a seamless transition between everyday police work and crowd and riot control without the need for changing clothes.”

Crafted for exceptional flame retardancy and breathability, the uniform systems are tailored to meet the distinct needs of crowd and riot control police units. They offer robust protection against flames and intense heat, prioritising comfort, functionality, and ease of movement.

Collaboration with Industry Leaders

UF PRO collaborates with industry leaders W.L. Gore & Associates (Gore) and Schoeller Textil AG to ensure the highest quality and innovative flame retardant technology in their garment systems.

The Delta Eagle Jacket and Rain Jacket feature Gore’s innovative flame retardant PYRAD® technology, which effectively reduces heat flow through the fabric and prevents the spread of flames. Additionally, the Rain Jacket offers 100% waterproof capabilities, thanks to the GORE-TEX 3-layer waterproof and breathable laminate.

Schoeller’s pioneering pyroshell technology, found in UF PRO’s Combat Shirts and Pants, revolutionises fire safety. By transforming conventional materials into non-burning layers upon heat exposure, it provides active protection and enhances comfort. Through bonding and mixing processes, Schoeller ensures optimal flame retardancy, shielding wearers from direct flame exposure.

Rigorous Testing

All UF PRO’s FR garment systems undergo rigorous testing, including the Thermo Man test, conducted by the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA). This ensures comprehensive evaluation and real-life protection against intense heat and flames. If you’re interested in learning more about the testing process for flame retardant clothing, you can find additional information here.

UF PRO’s collaboration with the Netherlands’ National Police Services Agency (Politiedienstencentrum) signifies a significant advancement in crowd and riot control uniform systems, promoting safer and more comfortable policing.

Army Futures Command Stands Up All-Domain Sensing CFT

March 27th, 2024

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – This week, Gen. James E. Rainey, commanding general of Army Futures Command, announced the stand-up of an All-Domain Sensing (ADS) Cross-Functional Team (CFT). The new CFT arrives on the heels of the successful completion of the Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing/Space (APNT/Space) CFT’s original mission.

All-domain sensing enables synchronized kinetic and nonkinetic capabilities and has been a consistent priority for Army senior leaders. It supports synchronization and optimization of intelligence collection, processing/dissemination activities and sensor-to-shooter activities. The Army must be able to see as far as it can shoot, see after it shoots, access machine-speed analytics to make informed decisions and understand the impacts of multiple effects on the battlefield.

“CFT’s are one of the indisputable successes of AFC,” Rainey said. “We identify a problem and pull a team together to solve it. The APNT/Space CFT did what we asked them to do, and the changes we are making are intended to capitalize on our success.”

The ADS CFT, located at Adelphi, Maryland, and Huntsville, Alabama, will champion four lines of effort for the Army:

• Multi-Sensor Dominance: Prioritizing, integrating and shaping Army sensor technologies, to include counter-intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting; synchronizing sensor integration and experimentation with Joint, Allied, partner and commercial entities; and developing Army sensor requirements in coordination with Army and Joint communities. 

• Sensing Architecture: Developing integrated sensing architecture that facilitates transport and access at optimal pace and scale to enable Army force projection, fires and maneuver; and supporting Joint and Allied fires and maneuver. 

• Advanced Processing and Dissemination: Identifying, shaping and exploiting advanced technologies for data processing and dissemination at the pace and scale required to execute Army Large-Scale Combat Operations and Multi-Domain Operations and enable Joint and Allied operations.

• Operational Enablers: In coordination with Capability Development and Integration Directorates and Army Capability Managers, shaping doctrine, organization, training, materiel, leadership and education, personnel and facilities (DOTMLPF-P) for sensors, electronic warfare, and positioning, navigation and timing to support and sustain Army fires and maneuver in denied and degraded environments.

“With the evolution of hard Army problems, comes the evolution of talented teams to solve them,” said Mike Monteleone, director of the ADS CFT. “Our team swiftly delivered on our last mission, proving the CFT concept is effective in accelerating capability delivery. We look forward to helping the Army and Joint enterprise converge understanding and deliver all-domain sensing solutions.”

The ADS CFT will partner closely with teams across the Army and Joint Force; requirements and architecture communities; materiel developers; test, training and experimentation facilitators; and more. The CFT is expected to reach Full Operational Capability (FOC) by the second quarter of fiscal year 2025.

Courtesy of All-Domain Sensing Cross-Functional Team.

Saab Receives Order for Carl-Gustaf from NATO Support and Procurement Agency

March 26th, 2024

Saab has received an order for the man-portable, multi-role weapon system Carl-Gustaf® from the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA). The order value is approximately EUR 60 million (SEK 700 million) and the contract period is 2024-2027.

The order is placed on behalf of four NATO member nations within a framework agreement between Saab and the NSPA regarding Carl-Gustaf, including ammunition and equipment.

“We are honoured that the NSPA once again has chosen our trusted, reliable and effective Carl-Gustaf system,” says Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s business area Dynamics.

Proven to deliver results on the battlefield, Carl-Gustaf provides the effectiveness soldiers need. The wide range of ammunition types for Carl-Gustaf makes it flexible and able to handle any situation, whether it is to destroy an armoured vehicle or structure, or illuminating the battlefield during night operations.

The Carl-Gustaf system is supplied to more than 40 countries around the world.
Read more: www.saab.com/products/carl-gustaf-m4