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B&T USA Releases Advanced Rifle Suppressor Line

August 1st, 2024

Tampa, FL (August 1, 2024) – B&T USA is proud to introduce its next generation of 3D printed Rotex and SRBS models now within the Print-X family of suppressors — available globally. These suppressors are quickly and easily identifiable thanks to B&T’s signature bead blasted gray finish and new tube texturing. An extremely low flash endcap has been engineered to provide industry leading flash suppression, while B&T’s high-performance patent pending Star Baffles are now available in 3D printed form, providing less backpressure and greater sound suppression. Lastly, there is no change to pricing and models are available for purchase through dealers and distributors at the time of this release.

“The improvements made to our 3D printed SRBS and Rotex suppressors within the Print-X family are examples of how our customers and end-users continue to reap the benefits of our R&D team continually pushing what is possible in both material and design,” said Chris Mudgett, Vice President of Marketing for B&T USA. “As a suppressor manufacturer with nearly 700 different suppressors, it’s safe to say our engineering team refuses to leave well enough alone and our products are in a perpetual state of advancement to ensure our customers receive the most cutting-edge technology possible, providing them with a substantial advantage in the field.”

About Print-X

Within the Print-X family of 3D printed suppressors, the Rotex and SRBS suppressors are manufactured using laser bed fusion techniques, are available in 5.56 NATO & 7.62 NATO calibers and are constructed of either 100% titanium or 718 Inconel. Both models are fully weldless — substantially reducing weight and failure points. These suppressors are quickly and easily identifiable thanks to B&T’s signature bead blasted gray finish. The Print-X family of suppressors also receive updated tube texturing, a low-flash endcap and B&T’s patent-pending high-performance Star Baffle system, finally available in 3D printed form. Each suppressor ships with B&T’s Rotex-SF HUB assembly, which is compatible with all B&T Rotex flash hiders, as well as all of SureFire’s SOCOM flash hiders, Warcomps and muzzle brakes. The Rotex-SF HUB is machined from titanium bar stock. NATO-Spec A2 and direct-mount HUB assemblies are available as accessory items.

www.bt-usa.com

Posted in Press Release, Suppressors | Comments Off on B&T USA Releases Advanced Rifle Suppressor Line

AFSOC to Host Second Iteration of Emerald Warrior 24

August 1st, 2024

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —

Air Force Special Operations Command is hosting a second iteration of the Emerald Warrior exercise this year from July 29 – August 18, 2024.

This joint, combined exercise provides realistic and relevant, high-end training to prepare special operations forces, conventional forces, and international partners in the evolving strategic environment, shifting focus to growing kinetic and non-kinetic effects in strategic competition. It will be held at multiple locations in Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Nevada, and Puerto Rico.

This exercise hones the skills of participating units and is an opportunity to test future concepts in support of Agile Combat Employment operating under the Air Force Force Generation deployment model. In line with AFSOC’s Strategic Guidance, the exercise fuels on-going pathfinding and experimentation efforts within the command.

Additionally, Emerald Warrior applies lessons learned from real-world operations to provide trained and ready personnel to the joint force, while addressing priorities laid out in the 2022 National Defense Strategy.

Residents near training locations may experience increased military activity in their area. All training occurs at designated sites and is coordinated with local authorities.

Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs

Posted in Air Force, Press Release, SOF | Comments Off on AFSOC to Host Second Iteration of Emerald Warrior 24

Ceremonial Handover in Hungary: Rheinmetall Takes Over Ammunition Factory in Várpalota, Hungary, After Completion

July 31st, 2024

On 29 July 2024, the Duesseldorf-based technology group Rheinmetall celebrated the official takeover of its new state-of-the-art 30mm ammunition factory in Várpalota, Hungary.

The ceremony took place in presence of the Hungarian Minister of Defence Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky and the CEO of Rheinmetall AG, Armin Papperger.

The new production facility in Várpalota is a significant milestone in Rheinmetall’s expansion strategy. It underlines the company’s commitment in providing up-to-date technologies to support the defence capabilities of its partners. The factory is designed to produce 30mm ammunition for the KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle (IFV), which will be built in Zalaegerszeg and delivered to the Hungarian armed forces. The Várpalota factory will start production in October 2024. Furthermore, ammunition for battle tanks and artillery as well as igniters will be among the products manufactured in Várpalota in a second phase. In the final expansion stage, the company site will cover a total of around 150 hectares.

In his opening speech, Armin Papperger highlighted the importance of the new factory for Rheinmetall and the site in Hungary: “The opening of this state-of-the-art ammunition factory in Várpalota is a clear signal to our commitment concerning innovation and quality. This facility will not only strengthen the defence capabilities of our global partners and in Hungary, but will also contribute to the economic development of the region.”

In his address, Hungarian Defence Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky emphasised the strategic importance of the cooperation with Rheinmetall, and stressed the joint efforts in strengthening the national security and defence industry.

The new factory in Várpalota is equipped with the latest technology and will create more than 200 jobs in the region, making an important contribution to the local economy. The establishment of the Lynx IFV and other Lynx models also strengthens the development of the Hungarian defence industry. Rheinmetall is thus continuing its tradition of contributing to global security through technological innovation and close partnerships.

Posted in Ammo, Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Ceremonial Handover in Hungary: Rheinmetall Takes Over Ammunition Factory in Várpalota, Hungary, After Completion

Savage Arms Receives IHEA Industry Partner of the Year Award

July 31st, 2024

WESTFIELD, Massachusetts – July 30, 2024 – Savage Arms®, an iconic firearm manufacturer, has been given the Industry Partner of the Year Award by the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA). An organization dedicated to teaching hunting and shooting safety and responsibilities throughout the United States, IHEA began its partnership with Savage Arms in June of 2022.

“We are honored to receive the IHEA Industry Partner of the Year Award and remain committed to supporting hunter education initiatives across the United States,” said Beth Shimanski, Director of Marketing at Savage Arms. “As Savage continues to collaborate with IHEA and other organizations, we strive to promote safe and responsible hunting practices for generations to come.”

IHEA is the professional hunter education association affiliated with the Association of Fish and Wildlife agencies and the state fish and hunter education programs. With over 55,000 instructors, the organization works to ensure that hunter education and shooting safety is presented across the United States.

“Savage Arms is an amazing partner to not only IHEA, but hunter-ed volunteers and hunting mentors nationwide,” said Alex Baer, executive director for IHEA-USA. “The IHEA Industry Partner Award recognizes commitment to education, and Savage Arms provides this in a combination of ways including innovation to bring services to new audiences, professional consultation and financial aid. This award is nominated by members of the community and decided by a committee of hunter-education professionals.”

Through the partnership with IHEA, Savage Arms has supported tens of thousands of instructors who provide hunter education and shooting safety training nationwide. By its continued support of IHEA, Savage Arms has played a crucial role in educating new generations of hunters about firearm safety, responsible hunting and landowner relationships.

For more information about Savage Arms and its extensive line of leading firearms, visit savagearms.com.

Posted in Hunting, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Savage Arms Receives IHEA Industry Partner of the Year Award

Vista Outdoor Board Announces Review of Strategic Alternatives

July 31st, 2024

Company Adjourns Special Meeting for CSG Transaction to September 13, 2024

ANOKA, Minn.– Vista Outdoor Inc. (“Vista Outdoor” or “the Company”) (NYSE: VSTO) today announced that its Board of Directors (the “Board”) has commenced a review of strategic alternatives, which includes:

• Exploration of a full range of alternatives for Revelyst, including a potential sale of Revelyst. The Czechoslovak Group a.s. (“CSG”) is also considering an acquisition of Revelyst with potential partners (in addition to its proposed acquisition of The Kinetic Group).

• Engagement with MNC Capital (“MNC”) and its private equity partner with respect to its proposal to acquire Vista Outdoor to see if it can deliver superior value for the Company’s stockholders. This follows MNC’s recent public statement on July 26, 2024 that “if there were a reason or basis to increase our offer, including Vista engaging with us and providing one, we would increase our offer price”. In light of this recent statement, the Board has determined that MNC’s proposal would reasonably be expected to lead to a superior proposal and meets the standard for engagement under the terms of the CSG merger agreement. Considering the extensive diligence conducted by MNC and its private equity partner to date, Vista Outdoor expects MNC to be able to confirm an increased proposal for the acquisition of Vista Outdoor in short order.

• Continued consideration of the separation of Revelyst and The Kinetic Group through a spin-off.

The Board remains committed to acting in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders.

“We recognize the continuing support received from many of our stockholders for the CSG transaction and the feedback from some of our stockholders with respect to other strategic alternatives,” said Mike Callahan, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “We take the views of our stockholders very seriously and believe it is prudent to evaluate all strategic alternatives. In addition to engaging with CSG and MNC and its private equity partner, we also look forward to reviewing any other strategic alternative for Vista Outdoor that would maximize value for stockholders. While we conduct this strategic review, we remain as focused as ever on delivering high-quality, innovative products for our consumers around the world.”

In light of this announcement, Vista Outdoor will adjourn the special meeting of stockholders (the “Special Meeting”) scheduled to be held at 9:00 am (Central Time) on July 30, 2024, to 9:00 am (Central Time) on September 13, 2024. The Board continues to recommend Vista Outdoor stockholders vote in favor of the proposal to adopt the merger agreement with CSG at the Special Meeting.

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC is acting as sole financial adviser to Vista Outdoor and Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP is acting as legal adviser to Vista Outdoor. Moelis & Company LLC is acting as sole financial adviser to the independent directors of Vista Outdoor and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP is acting as legal adviser to the independent directors of Vista Outdoor.

Posted in Ammo, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Vista Outdoor Board Announces Review of Strategic Alternatives

Cabot Watch Company Mutineer – Now Open for Pre-Order

July 31st, 2024

“Christian Craighead is a bad example to young soldiers. His mutineer attitude promotes lawlessness in the military.”

– British military top brass

Christian Craighead is collaboraying with Cabot Watch Company (CWC) to introduce The Mutineer.

He shared these notes on this new watch:

As a young soldier in the Parachute Regiment, I relied on a CWC watch but never dreamed I would one day have the opportunity to design my own. That fateful day in January 2019 was yet another reminder to always favor an AUTOMATIC watch over a smartwatch that needs charging.

The Mutineer, crafted to my exact specifications, is not only the perfect blend of functionality and style, but has several subtle elements reflecting my own military experiences. It carries the reminder to continuously question ideals set forth by those with titles, yet lack authenticity and true leadership.

Individually numbered, each one secures its place in the world of significant pieces. This initial limited release sets the stage for the Mutineer’s exclusivity, while making sure it will always remain a prized possession.

Pre-order yours here:
/theministryofdefence.com/products/the-cwc-mutineer

Posted in Watches | 3 Comments »

Introducing the XR2 Ultra, Compact, Lightweight and Rechargeable Weapon Light with Red Aiming Laser

July 31st, 2024

Fountain Valley, CA—SureFire, LLC, manufacturer of the world’s finest—and most innovative—illumination tools and tactical products, is proud to announce the highly capable, easily concealable XR2 weaponlight with visible red or green aiming laser is now shipping in the red laser configuration.

The XR2 is a lightweight, ultra compact, rechargeable handgun weaponlight with aiming laser that boasts an impressive 800 lumens and 15,000 candela. The XR2 is activated with intuitive ambidextrous switches that allow for both momentary-on or constant-on activation. This concealable weaponlight operates on a quick-detach battery, enabling the operator to swap out the power source without removing the XR2 from the host weapon and disturbing the laser’s zero.

With its incorporated red aiming laser (green laser model coming soon), the XR2 allows for faster target acquisition, enabling the operator to engage effectively in high-pressure situations. The 5-milliWatt laser is highly visible in various lighting environments, providing a clear aiming point in even the harshest conditions.

The XR2 is designed for a concealable mid-size handgun with its ultra-lightweight, extremely compact, low-profile design. Its rail mount features four points of contact to ensure an added measure of redundancy and security when mounted to a weapon and will securely attach to most Universal-rail-equipped handguns. The dual recoil-proof LEDs result in a Hybrid beam pattern with significant reach downrange as well as ample spill light, so you can positively ID targets at distance while maintaining situational awareness.

XR2 Features:

• Dual LEDs deliver 800 lumens of intense white light and 15,000 candela shaped in to a Hybrid beam pattern; ideal for positive target identification at short- to medium-range distances, delivering a bright central beam and ample spill light

• Choose between red laser with an output of 5 milliWatts/635 nanometers and green laser with an output of 5 milliWatts/515 nanometers for rapid target acquisition from nonstandard shooting positions

• Compact form factor is ideal for concealment, adding no additional width or length to most mid-sized concealable handguns.

• SureFire’s intuitive and ambidextrous switching provides momentary-on or constant-on activation for virtually foolproof, stress-free instant activation

• Quick-detach, rechargeable lithium polymer battery provides fast and easy battery swaps without removing the XR2 from the host firearm, ideal for prolonged low-light training sessions

• Battery-mounted fuel gauge allows convenient monitoring of charge status; it minimizes your chances of being caught with a dead battery

• Included charging cradle features two charging bays so you can keep charged spare batteries readily at hand

• Weatherproof, sealed gasket to ensure durability in rainy conditions

For more information on the XR2, visit www.surefire.com/xr2.

Posted in Advertiser, Lights, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 1 Comment »

Joint Counter-Small UAS Office Conducts Successful Counter Drone-Swarm Demonstration

July 31st, 2024

WASHINGTON — The Army held its most challenging counter-small unmanned aircraft systems test to date, paving the way for Soldiers to field capabilities against small-UAS attacks in the future.

During the Joint Counter-Small Unmanned Systems Office’s (JCO) fifth C-sUAS demonstration, held at Yuma Proving Ground June 3-28, 2024, testers launched more than 40 UAS targets that converged on a defended area in each session. The tests helped the JCO evaluate the command-and-control capabilities of nine C-sUAS systems, observing how each sensed and identified different types of UAS threats.

“It was a very successful demonstration in informing U.S. [forces] and our allies what capabilities exist out there for this very challenging profile,” said Col. Michael Parent, JCO Acquisition Division chief.

“You don’t want to obviously engage the target multiple times,” Parent added. “You’ve got so many [UAS] coming at you, you have to be able to differentiate and have the most promising threat first.”

The demonstration presented a wide array of threats that swarmed the C-sUAS systems in mass and in waves, showcasing both kinetic and non-kinetic defeat solutions. Experiments tested capabilities that included guided rockets, kinetic interceptor drones, electro-optical/infrared cameras, radio frequency scanners and radio frequency jammers.

Demonstration threat profiles used rotary wing, fixed wing and slow-moving, and propeller-powered UAS threats. The JCO chose the nine systems from eight vendors pulled out of a pool of 58 vendor proposals.

Small unmanned aircraft systems pose a significant threat to Army and U.S. military operations and are also a particularly dangerous threat in Ukraine and parts of Israel. Drones provide low-cost capability to transport ammunition for targeted attacks and can collect reconnaissance for enemy forces and coordinate attacks.

To combat that threat, former Defense Secretary Mark Esper designated the Army as the executive agent for C-sUAS defense in 2019.

Parent said that the JCO will look to begin prototyping specific C-sUAS proposals in 2025 based on specific capabilities and the needs of combatant commanders. The JCO scheduled its next C-sUAS demonstration between the second and third quarters of fiscal year 2025.

According to Parent, compared to the previous four demonstrations held from 2021 to 2023, the vendors’ systems showed greater speed and recognition of threats.

The test marked the first demonstration the service has held in nearly 12 months.

“The challenge of the profile really meant that no one characteristic, no one capability, whether kinetic or non-kinetic, in itself could really defeat this kind of a profile,” stated Parent. “So what we saw was that you really do need a full system-of-systems approach, a layered approach, because we’re talking about a very large profile, 50 or more [threats] … coming out from different angles, different speeds and different sizes.”

As the JCO is currently evaluating the test results, Parent refrained from commenting on the effectiveness of each vendor’s systems or specific performance data. Of the eight vendors, the JCO chose two proposals from Maryland-based ELTA North America; a vehicle-mounted solution and a platoon transport solution.

The results of the testing will be collected and sent to U.S. combatant commands and the vendors at the end of July, Parent said.

Additionally, the JCO will coordinate with joint partners to identify the priority focus areas of UAS systems.

By Joe Lacdan

Posted in Army, Guest Post, UAS | Comments Off on Joint Counter-Small UAS Office Conducts Successful Counter Drone-Swarm Demonstration