Soldier Systems Daily Soldier Systems Daily

Exercise Phoenix Fire – The Rise of the ITACs

November 20th, 2021

Iraqi Terminal Attack Controllers (ITAC) from multiple battalions of the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Services (CTS) traveled to Mosul Dam and Al Asad Air Base to meet with their Coalition Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTAC) partners from the Special Operations Joint Task Force – Levant for the Exercise Phoenix Fires. The exercise, which took place from October 16-29, 2021, allowed the partners to improve their ground and air communication skills to accurately call for air support on ground targets.

The first portion of the exercise focused on fundamentals and techniques during classroom based block of instruction. Afterwards the participants shifted from class time to the range where they worked with aircraft support during the day, as well as night operations.

“We are lucky to have this exercise for the soldiers (so) they can practice on their skills and keep them ready for doing more missions in the future,” said Iraqi Lt. Col. Ali, who is assigned to the Counter Terrorism Center Headquarters.

Air support for Exercise Phoenix Fires consisted of F-16 ‘Fighting Falcon’ jets, AH-64 Apache helicopters, Mil MI-17 helicopters and other Coalition aircraft. The exercise at Mosul Dam saw machine gun fire from helicopters throughout parts of the exercise, while participants at Al Asad Air Base had the opportunity to call in three 500 pound bombs from Coalition jets during the second week of the training.

The Special Operations Joint Task Force’s mission within Operation Inherent Resolve is to work by, with and through our partner forces to defeat Daesh. This exercise demonstrated aligned capabilities through shared experiences and institutional capacity while maintaining regional security.

“We’re trying to get them to become organic instructors themselves, to police each other,” said Tech Sgt. Anthony Evelyn-Watts from the 116th Air Support Operations Squadron. “That’s really the overall goal; is for them to have a self-sustaining air-to-ground integration.”

The Special Operations Joint Task Force – Levant is in Iraq at the invitation of the Government of Iraq to facilitate advisory, assistance and to counter malign influence that looks to disrupt the sovereignty and prosperity of Iraq.

Story by Staff Sgt. Jose Torres Jr.

Special Operations Joint Task Force-Levant

Posted in Guest Post, SOF | Comments Off on Exercise Phoenix Fire – The Rise of the ITACs

Primary Focus – .300 Ham’r

November 20th, 2021

If you love the AR and you love power – You’re going to love the .300 Ham’r

Of course it would be Wilson Combat that made the .300 Ham’r

In this brave new world of crazy ridiculous ballistics, and where the AR-15 is getting more and more nuanced for those who want to build something unique, it would be one of the largest names in combat customs that comes up with the idea of pushing the stopping power agenda further in the platform. You can now get component parts for an upper receiver or a conversion kit to push the power agenda forward with the .300HAM’R.

Forget about balance. Forget about nuance. Forget about subtlety. Get a bigger hammer. The .300 Ham’r is the bigger hammer you never knew you always wanted, in a tiny, little lightweight (original AR-sized) package that delivers lead on target in grams not grains.

OK, maybe that’s a bit too much hyperbole, but the point remains: this is all about business when it comes to stopping power. Here’s the deal: you are getting the same weight and ease of use and familiarity of the AR, with a defense-focused cartridge that matches closely with the .30-30, which means it can stop any threat you can think of and works well in the field for big game, too. Forget about trying to tame this beast though – by the time you can search for components on the market, you’ll be convinced that you should just roll with it and embrace the power like you haven’t before out of an AR-15.

The Ballistics alone might convince you to check into the .300 Ham’r

Would the AR power user have interest in a cartridge where the .300 isn’t suppressed like the Blackout? Some might not be as interested in hard hitting ballistics out of the AR-15 platform because one can already can already get that with the short, thick rounds like the .458 SOCOM and the .50 Beowulf and the .450 Bushmaster?

The AR power user should be interested in a round that is reminiscent of a .30-30, and has higher magazine capacity, better accuracy and drops more lead on target with better wound channel performance than the.6.8SPC, though. That’s the .300 Hammer.

It’s also coming out of a 16-inch barrel, so the tangible ballistics are tangible with less hardware, and creates a more functional CQB gun and gives you more versatility in the field.

Combine those numbers with about ¼ MOA potential out of a 16” or an 18” barrel and super high-quality and well-polished collateral by Wilson Combat.

Out of a 1:13 twist barrel you can send a plethora of loads (loadouts from Wilson total more than 15 – even if the rest of the world isn’t producing a lot of the now SAAMI specification cartridge, yet), that are interesting for a bunch of different purposes and just about perfect for feral hogs and other depredation, as well as self-defense. Of course, this isn’t the type of round that you can expect to mitigate passthrough on residential walls, but it wasn’t really made for that anyways. It’s the 7.62×39 killer. But it’s also the tactical big brother to the .300BLK, too.

There is also a 1:15” twist rate barrel option for specialty scenarios that include mostly the lower half of the grain weight spectrum for the .300HAM’R (95-130gr). Note, though, that the 1:13” barrel can still do nearly as well with the smaller grain weights, with a bit of tumbling potential, or some small stabilization concerns in colder conditions and with the smallest .308 projectiles at the furthest reaches of the range.

Here’s the comparison to the different rounds in the realm of the normal AR pattern and what you can expect to get from the .300 Ham’r:

.300 HAM’R:

110 grain weight; ~2600 fps velocity; ~1650 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

125 grain weight; ~2510 fps velocity; ~1750 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

135 grain weight; ~2400 fps velocity; ~1720 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

150 grain weight; ~2300 fps velocity; ~1750 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

.308 Winchester (MEANT FOR CONTEXT ONLY – Not a legitimate competitor, as sizing and powder charge is much larger than the .300 HAM’R):

147 grain weight; ~2800 fps velocity; ~2550 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

6.5 Grendel:

108 grain weight; ~2770 fps velocity; ~1650 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

123 grain weight; ~2650 fps velocity; ~1900 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

130 grain weight; ~2500 fps velocity; ~1810 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

.300BLK:

110 grain weight; ~2350 fps velocity; ~1375 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

125 grain weight; ~2250 fps velocity; ~1350 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

7.62x39mm:

123 grain weight; ~2410 fps velocity; ~1600 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

154 grain weight; ~2100 fps velocity; ~1510 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

6.8SPC:

110 grain weight; ~2500 fps velocity; ~1510 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

115 grain weight; ~2560 fps velocity; ~1695 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

120 grain weight; ~2450 fps velocity; ~1610 ft. lbs. energy at the muzzle

It’s the .300 You always knew you wanted

A nearly 15% increase over the performance of the supersonic factory loads for the .300BLK and about a 10% increase over the 7.62×39 Round means that this .308 diameter projectile is really pushing some limits, considering the short case length. But it’s also stabilized very well in the 1:13” twist barrels because of the engineering on the specially selected bullets and the tight range of grain weights and overall projectile dimensions. All this translates to getting ridiculously small standard deviations in velocity, and substantially better accuracy.

Full capacity. Stunning accuracy. Amazing ballistics. But not silent. So, it’s not perfect. Still, it’s a very good entry in the exceptionally crowded AR cartridge space.

Here’s the variety of things you can do with the HAM’R:

• 6.5 Grendel-like accuracy and hunting prowess out to 650+ yards with better mass, weight and more approachable barrel lengths for combat and hunting carry

• Velocity and energy for big game past 450 yards and more than 400 lbs.

• Shorter barrels and better performance means better CQB where background target hits won’t be a problem

• Exceptional accuracy out to 200 yards – with ¼ MOA potential

• Higher capacity or the same capacity compared with the rounds listed above generally

• Great pedigree and now with a SAAMI specification

It’s not silent but it hits harder than you thought

One small caveat – it’s not going to suppress better than the .300BLK. In truth, no other rifle cartridge is going to be suppressed better than the .300BLK either. Until/Unless suppressors become a mainstream reality, this won’t be detrimental to the .300 HAM’R market.

Maybe you won’t buy another tax stamp, though, because you’ve already got a 16” barrel which means you can get pretty close to the SBR realm; and you probably already have a .300BLK in your collection of AR’s if you are operating in the tax stamp realm, so you already have a silencer friendly round in your stable.

This is a great cartridge to put alongside the .300BLK because it makes the .300BLK look inferior, except when you want silence, and then, no cartridge makes the .300BLK look inferior. It creates a nice synergy between the two .300’s and for someone who might want to eb in the intermediate diameter bullet range, this is a compelling platform for the AR.

When will I really be able to get one?

Ok, here’s the REAL caveat – the loads aren’t exactly flowing out of the factories even though the SAAMI specification is a done deal now. Wilson has developed something like 17 loads for a variety of different things, but, admittedly, it’s not easy to get any of them right now. And Wilson really isn’t producing billions of rounds of ammunition either, as that hasn’t necessarily been their focal point.

The SAAMI spec is probably enough to get some other factories into the business of testing and then producing loads of their own, but Wilson Combat has poured a lot into the development of the “platform” already. Wilson knows that since it’s got impressive numbers and looks good to the AR conversion crowd, it’s a viable option for them to produce a good stable of loads. All this should inject some supply into the market desiring the loads once the supply chain returns to normal.

You can get some very good looking and well-made hardware suitable for a conversion on your AR-15, but it too, is running into a market full of seekers, and not enough raw material supply to sustain that demand. So, it might be a bit of a waiting game right now.

Conclusions about the .300 Ham’r – is it here for the long-term? Or is it a flash in the pan?

You get very favorable performance, AR-15 compatibility, and potential to 800 yards+ if you have the right setup and conditions, with 650+ in the sweet spot. You can get this out of a 16” or 18” barrel and that same barrel can get you into the reality of ¼ MOA accuracy earlier in the trajectory arc. Higher magazine capacity than comparable rounds, built by one of the Godfather’s of the defense-minded manufacturers and the company has already shown better built-in support than most innovations in the AR space.

What started as a hog gun for the Wilson Ranch, has become the tack driver of the future for the AR-15.

Conclusion: The HAM’R is here to stay.

Primary Focus is a weekly feature from Primary Arms that covers various firearms related subjects.

Posted in Ammo, Guest Post, weapons | 6 Comments »

Air Force Security Forces Center Initiatives Modernize Total Force Defenders

November 20th, 2021

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas (AFNS) —

When it comes to equipping more than 38,000 security forces members across the Total Force, the Air Force Security Forces Center seeks to give Defenders every advantage over their adversaries. The AFSFC Logistics Directorate is charged with making sure it happens.

AFSFC, a primary subordinate unit of the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center, relies on the directorate to acquire and deliver the latest, technically advanced personal gear and equipment to security forces members around the world, including those from the U.S. Space Force, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve.

The directorate accomplishes the work with a staff of experts from various security forces and related functions, ranging from individual requirements and equipment to deployable equipment, weapons management and ground munitions.

“AFSFC’s deliberate strategic plan to modernize and standardize security forces’ equipment across the Total Force serves as a catalyst in achieving superior agility and lethality in a battlefield environment,” said Col. Aaron Guill, AFSFC commander. “Our logistics folks, with their knowledge and expertise, are one of the reasons we are successful.”

A recent initiative called the Model Defender Kit is one example of how the AFSFC team is modernizing the force.

“It’s a long-term initiative that standardizes the gear ensemble issued to every Defender across the security forces enterprise,” said Master Sgt. Derek Walton, individual equipment manager in the Logistics Directorate. “Our responsibility is to put an acquisition strategy in place once the testing and final solutions are made on the composition of the standardized gear ensemble.”

Replacing individual equipment with new technology involves stringent research, testing and evaluation processes. Walton and other members of the team manage the process from cradle to grave. After decisions are made, they purchase samples of equipment from various vendors and send them to several bases for testing and evaluation.

“Upgrading the 23 standard individual equipment items issued to every Defender takes time, but we’re committed and our efforts are producing positive results,” Walton said.

High-speed ballistic helmet

High-speed ballistic helmets are one such example. Now standard issue for security forces, the new high-cut helmets provide superior comfort and feature a built-in rail system to accommodate accessories such as night vision goggles and tactical communications equipment. More than 27,000 of the 28,934 helmets purchased by AFIMSC are already in the field. The remainder should arrive at units by late December.

Female body armor

In 2020, the AFSFC committed to a Total Force purchase of body armor developed specifically for women in security forces. The new armor is lighter and a better fit than previous body armor. It also improves mobility and provides better protection of the vital organs. The initial 7,688 vests were distributed across the Total Force.

Modular scalable vest

In 2021, AFSFC began testing and evaluating a new modular scalable vest at several bases. The latest tactical body armor features additional padding for the shoulders and hips, and a pouch designed to prevent armor plates from shifting. The vests can be configured for different levels of protection based on mission requirements. Today, security forces Airmen are equipped with more than 8,100 of the new vests.

Another branch of the Logistics Directorate, the Weapons and Munitions Division, is furthering AFSFC’s commitment to accelerate change by integrating and delivering innovative solutions that modernize security forces weapons and ground munitions systems. The division also supports and advocates for all user communities across the Air Force enterprise, not just security forces.

“Our unit validates and approves all requirements for weapons systems and munitions that enable Defenders across the Total Force to sustain a safe and secure operating environment,” said Randy Roth, Weapons and Munitions Division deputy chief.

The division has enhanced lethality by making significant contributions to several recent weapons modernization initiatives.

M18 modular handgun

AFSFC began shipping the M18 modular handgun systems to security forces units in early 2019. The M18 modular design and ergonomic features improve target acquisition and accuracy, outperforming the bulkier M9, which had been in use for more than 30 years. The M18 can also be customized with small, medium or large hand grips. AFSFC managed the purchase of 48,860 and fielding of 38,708 M18s.

M4A1 carbine rifle

Another recent acquisition is the fully automatic M4A1 carbine rifle, an upgrade to the semi automatic M4, which fires only a three-round burst. Defenders are currently transitioning to the new weapon. For security forces, the M4A1 will be equipped with the direct view optic that magnifies at a 1:6 ratio.

“It’s going to increase defender lethality by improving observation, identification and target accuracy,” Roth said. AFSFC managed the purchase of 50,000 DVOs and will begin shipping them to units in the first quarter of 2022.

M110A1 squad designated marksman rifle

The M110A1 is replacing the M24 precision rifle, which has been in use since security forces established the close precision engagement program 20 years ago. The new weapon comes with the same scope as the M4A1 and has a bullet drop compensator for 7.62 mm ammunition. It will be fitted with a 3:24 magnification optic that increases maximum effective range and enhances surveillance. The system also has military standard rails to allow attachment of accessories, such as a clip-on night sight. That was not an option with the M24. The M110A1 provides semi-automatic fire to increase engagement speed when encountering multiple targets. AFSFC managed the purchase of 1,464 M110A1s. Deliveries to units will start in the first quarter of 2022.

Polymer cased 50-caliber round

The Center is also replacing 50-caliber rounds with heavier brass shells with a polymer-based alternative. “Just recently approved by the Nonnuclear Munitions Board, the new light-weight polymer-based shell casings are ideal for agile Helo rescue units,” Roth said. “We predict these rounds will eventually get into the hands of our ground-based units and Defenders.”

“At Security Forces Center, we strive to find the best solutions to efficiently procure and deliver the latest technology across the Total Force,” said Bryan Gillespie, AFSFC director of logistics. “Above all, we want Defenders to know we are here for them and encourage Defenders and commanders alike to reach out when they have questions and concerns, or are in need of logistics support and sustainment.”

By Joe Bela, Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

Carry More with Tasmanian Tiger Bladder Pouch Extended

November 19th, 2021

The volume adjustable bag for hydration systems is designed for a 1 to 1.5-liter hydration bladder, but can be adjusted to fit up to a 3-liter bladder or make space for other gear.

Knoxville, Tenn. (November 2021) – Tasmanian Tiger®, a tactical nylon line of products distributed exclusively for the US market by Proforce Equipment, Inc., introduces the TT Bladder Pouch Extended. This volume adjustable bag for hydration systems is designed for a 1 to 1.5-liter hydration bladder. A zipper on the bottom can be used to adjust the volume for up to 3-liter bladders or to make space for other gear.

This low-profile bag is specially designed to be used with all TT Plate Carriers and features a MOLLE reverse system. The front side of the bag features a laser-cut MOLLE system and a hook-and-loop closure patch on the front side (loop) to attach name patches to. Needs four MOLLE loops.

Made from Cordura® 700 den (Multicam 500 den), the TT Bladder Pouch Extended weighs 10 oz. (280 g.). When not extended, it measures 13 x 6.5 x 5 in. (33 x 17 x 5 cm.). When fully extended, the bag measures 17.7 x 6.5 x 5 in. (45 x 17 x 5 cm.). Available in Black, Olive, Coyote, and Multicam. MSRP $64.95 and $69.95 for the Multicam.

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

All sales inquiries can be directed to tt@tasmaniantigerusa.com.

Posted in Load Carrying, Press Release | Comments Off on Carry More with Tasmanian Tiger Bladder Pouch Extended

SENTRY Tactical Expands Options in New EDC Holsters

November 19th, 2021

SENTRY’s new line of Every Day Carry holsters offers a super sleek design with adjustable settings for a comfortable, all-day fit.

Virginia Beach, Va. (November 2021) – SENTRY Tactical expands their new line of EDC holsters to include a stylish Comfort Carry holster in microfiber suede, a “leather-look” Variable Fit holster, and an optimal solution for a pocket carry holster, the IWB/Pocket holster.

The Comfort Carry Inside the Pant/Tuckable Holster is covered with an anti-slip microfiber suede and features edge stitching for a casual look that is comfortable for all-day wear, easy to clean and good looking. Just like the Inside the Pant/Tuckable holster, this microfiber suede version with the unique angle adjust clip attachment system allows the user to tuck a shirt over the firearm for the ultimate in concealability and accessibility. This Level 1 retention holster is also adjustable for height and holster inclination and has a sight channel for a smooth draw and reholstering. Available in a grey-suede look for GLOCK Models G17, 19, 43, S&W Shield 9/40, and SIG 238 with an MSRP of $65.99.

SENTRY’s Variable Fit Inside the Pants Holster is a thin, lightweight concealed carry holster featuring a “leather-look” reinforced microfiber body with an interior lining of suede microfiber. The holster is internally reinforced with a non-deformable material with a differentiated polymer reinforcement at the top insert area of the holster, for easy drawing and reholstering. The multi-position Rubber-Tech hook-and-loop fastener, allow the Easy-Fit to be worn in a variety of cants on the belt, and inside the pants. Available in black and four sizes for a sub-compact, medium semi-auto, large auto (G19), and large auto with longer barrel (G17) with an MSRP of $62.99.

The ideal pocket holster is SENTRY’s IWB/Pocket Holster, a comfortable concealed carry holster with a non-slip exterior and a closed-cell foam interior that conforms to the shape of the firearm. The soft interior liner protects and reduces friction and wear on the firearm. Ambidextrous design available in black for GLOCK Models (G26, G27, G29), (G19, G23, G25), (G17, G20, G22), .380 semi-autos to 2.75” barrel, 2” – 3” small revolvers (except for 5-shot), 3” – 4” medium barrels (.32/.380) and 2” small revolver/5-shot and small frame .380 with Crimson Trace. MSRP is $18.99.

To learn more about SENTRY Tactical, contact us at info@sentryltp.com or visit sentrytactical.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Holsters, Press Release | Comments Off on SENTRY Tactical Expands Options in New EDC Holsters

Royal Australian Navy Rolls Out Multi-Cam Uniforms

November 19th, 2021

The RAN began their rollout of the Maritime Multi-Cam Pattern Uniform in the warmer tropical areas of the Northern Territory and North Queensland last month and is expected to be delivered to all other units by the end of 2022.

Posted in Camo, Clothing, International, Multicam, Navy | 9 Comments »

TacJobs – USAF Special Reconnaissance

November 19th, 2021

Special reconnaissance Airmen are special tactics operators with unique training to conduct multi-domain reconnaissance and surveillance across the spectrum of conflict with focus on lethal and non-lethal air-to-ground integration of airpower.

Learn more at www.airforce.com/careers/detail/special-reconnaissance.

Posted in AFSW, Air Force, ISR, SOF, TacJobs | 5 Comments »

Draper Tapped by US Department of Defense to Provide Services and Support for Tactical Assault Kit

November 19th, 2021

Engineering company awarded DTRA contract to expand its role from R&D to maintenance and operation of the TAK communications platform

CAMBRIDGE, MA—Draper, one of the nation’s leading technology developers for national security, will build on its support for the warfighter under a new contract to operate and maintain the Tactical Assault Kit, or TAK, a widely used communications system for the military. The company recently received a sole-source contract with the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) of the U.S. Department of Defense.

TAK is a mobile computing solution which gives users a map-based common operating picture on a shared network and provides enhanced situational awareness for command and control. The app is designed for installation on tablets and other lightweight handheld devices, and employs a plug-in structure, which allows users to design applications specific to their mission needs. TAK has been used through years of real-world situations, including the U.S. presidential inauguration, by more than 10,000 active warfighters.

The $415,000 contract calls for Draper to provide maintenance support, technical services, testing, evaluation and training for TAK. The TAK application supports the Nuclear Enterprise Contingency Operations Department’s (NE-COs) various chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) detector systems.

Draper has developed software for every version of TAK since it was first developed by the Department of Defense. The software is available as ATAK for Android devices, WinTAK for Windows and WebTAK for the web. The company’s long experience with the application and with warfighter systems overall were major reasons Draper will expand its role from research and development to operation and maintenance of the TAK platform, according to Brian Alligood, Draper’s program manager for TAK.

“Draper is building stronger ties with our government customer and demonstrating the value we bring as an engineering innovation company which can integrate technology development with global maintenance and deployment,” Alligood said. “Our goal with this contract is to ensure TAK continues to deliver situational awareness at the tactical edge.”

TAK’s versatility means it can accommodate military personnel on the battlefield, homeland security officers working along the border and first responders during rescue-and-recovery operations. The map-based interface enables users to share information and maintain constant situational awareness, by allowing the addition of context to raw video feeds, such as labelling buildings as schools or hospitals to protect them against strikes, or designation of pickup points for evacuation. Fire and rescue crews have been trained to use the app for location tracking of fire equipment, establishing fire perimeters from aircraft and building fire model forecasts.

The contract is expected to last five years and will be performed primarily at Draper’s offices in Cambridge, Mass. and St. Petersburg, Fla., with additional support from the company’s regional offices.

Posted in Contracts, Digitization, Press Release | Comments Off on Draper Tapped by US Department of Defense to Provide Services and Support for Tactical Assault Kit