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Galvion Wins $5.8 million Contract to Supply US Army with EOD Tools and Equipment Kit (ETEK)

October 7th, 2021

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of military power and data management solutions is pleased to announce that its Squad Power Manager™ (SPM) kit will be included in the U.S. Army EOD Tools and Equipment Kit (ETEK). A $5.8 million contract from Program Manager Close Combat Systems (PM CCS) was awarded to supply an EOD-tailored SPM™ system to all active EOD units starting in December 2021. The Squad Power Manager is a core element of Galvion’s Nerv Centr® Active Systems range, which provides scalable power and data solutions to the dismounted soldier. Galvion will be exhibiting the SPM, along with their full range of active systems and their next generation head systems, in booth 3817 at the AUSA exhibition, taking place in Washington DC, 11-13 October 2021.

EOD teams use specialized equipment that requires sustainable and lightweight power when off-grid. The US DoD were seeking to upgrade their entire EOD dismounted kit and needed a single, customizable solution that could recharge the batteries for EOD tools and scavenge power from multiple sources such as solar, vehicle power or AC mains. The SPM ETEK Kit includes multiple cables and accessories that offer operational flexibility, allowing EOD units to harvest, scavenge and provide power to mission-critical equipment. The SPM requires no special configuration or programming, converting and managing power as efficiently as possible depending on power sources and equipment needs. This allows teams to minimize weight and logistical burden by carrying fewer batteries, while increasing operational efficiency through active monitoring and management of power usage.

Kristen Lomastro, President of Active Systems, said: “We are a company that is dedicated to delivering mission success by fully understanding not just the military requirement, but the environment, the conditions and the additional circumstances that the dismounted soldier may encounter. We pride ourselves on providing the very best technical and engineering solutions possible and by reducing the physical, cognitive and logistical burden for the warfighter, we increase their agility, lethality and survivability. Galvion is extremely pleased to announce this new contract for ETEK with US Army EOD units, and to continue in our mission to protect and support those who protect us.”

Galvion’s modular and scalable power management systems are battle-ready, flexible and easily integrated with commonly fielded equipment. The Squad Power Manager is a field-proven system, with customized kits in use across all U.S. DoD branches, including units of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and SOCOM. In addition, Galvion’s power management systems are being used by allied forces in Canada, the UK, Australia, France, Denmark and Sweden, among others.

www.galvion.com

Posted in Army, Contracts, EOD, Power, Press Release | Comments Off on Galvion Wins $5.8 million Contract to Supply US Army with EOD Tools and Equipment Kit (ETEK)

Meet with ADS at AUSA

October 7th, 2021

The Association of the United States Army‘s annual meeting and exhibition is next week, October 11-13 at the Washington, DC Convention Center.

ADS, Inc will be there along with several of their vendors to discuss your procurement needs. See them at Booth #2417 in Hall B.

Posted in ADS, Advertiser, AUSA | Comments Off on Meet with ADS at AUSA

RCBS ChargeMaster Supreme Accelerates Accurate Reloading

October 7th, 2021

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – October 6, 2021 – RCBS®, the leading manufacturer of ammunition reloading equipment for rifles and pistols, has announced the introduction of the new ChargeMaster™ Supreme powder dispenser. Taking reloading to the next level, the ChargeMaster Supreme combines RCBS precision with automatic adjustments and Bluetooth® compatibility to make reloading easier than ever.

The RCBS ChargeMaster Supreme features a Proprietary Learning Mode which uses a unique feedback loop and algorithms to automatically adjust dispensing speeds and stop points. This two-minute process allows the Supreme to learn the unique characteristics of the powder being dispensed. Once it has been ran, normal sized charges will typically dispense in less than 15 seconds.

“The Chargemaster Supreme is the next evolution in powder dispenser technology,” said Will Hemeyer, Sr. Product Manager for RCBS. “Our patent pending learn process is quick, efficient and easy to use. This function makes sure your powder throws are optimized to the powder you are using, plus the process only takes a few minutes to run and once it does your dispense times are significantly reduced. The Chargemaster Supreme is sure to be the only dispenser most handloaders will need on their bench.”

In addition, the ChargeMaster Supreme is Bluetooth compatible, which allows the user to dispense charges and operate the dispenser hands-free from their phone with the newly redesigned RCBS app. The updated app also offers a virtual reloading bench, a comprehensive load data log, and convenient access to the technical service team to help answer any technical questions a handloader might have.

The ChargeMaster Supreme boasts 0.1-grain accuracy and a 1500-grain load cell capacity. The unit can run on an external battery, meaning reloaders can operate it at home or in the field without being tied to power cords.

The ChargeMaster Supreme has an MSRP of $499.95. For more information or to view other RCBS reloading products, visit RCBS.com.

Posted in Ammo, Press Release | Comments Off on RCBS ChargeMaster Supreme Accelerates Accurate Reloading

Rheinmetall and Navistar Defence Canada Join Forces in Bid to Win Canada’s Logistics Vehicle Modernization Project

October 7th, 2021

Rheinmetall Canada and Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) are proud to welcome Navistar Defence Canada to their partnership, dubbed Team 45? North (45?N), in pursuit of Canada’s Logistics Vehicle Modernization (LVM) project – an initiative that will revitalize the Canadian Army’s light and heavy logistics vehicle capabilities. Drawing on more than 200 years of combined expertise in developing technical solutions in the realm of defence and vehicle programmes in Canada, Team 45?N brings together two premier military vehicle manufacturers and a world-class integrator to offer the Canadian Army battle-tested trucks that are purpose-built for military use.

Team 45?N: Joining forces to support our Forces
With its members’ extensive experience in various logistics vehicle solutions and in the execution of complex defence projects, Team 45?N offers a low-risk, high-quality solution for Canada’s LVM project.

For decades, Rheinmetall Canada has been a trusted partner of the Canadian Armed Forces in several programmes. The company is an internationally acknowledged system integrator in the defence and security industry and a dependable provider of in-service support to large Canadian vehicle projects. Rheinmetall Canada is also known for its collaborative approach in working with its customers throughout the full lifecycle of their programmes.

Bringing unique skills and deep knowledge to the team, RMMV has successfully developed, built, and serviced military vehicles around the globe for more than a century. To satisfy all of its customers’ needs and to support them in fulfilling their most demanding missions, the company offers a complete range of services, including project management, systems engineering and integration, through-life support, repair and maintenance, as well as spares management.

Navistar Defence Canada rounds out Team 45?N, offering significant experience in working with the Canadian government. Navistar Defence Canada delivered 1 300 militarized commercial-off-the-shelf (MilCOTS) vehicles to the Canadian Department of National Defence for the Medium Support Vehicle System (MSVS) project to support domestic and expeditionary missions. It continues to provide logistic support through its vast parts and service network across Canada. The company also supplied the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) with armoured personnel carriers to provide increased protection and rescue capabilities for RCMP officers and members of the public in high-risk situations.

Reliable capabilities, proven solutions
In collaboration with its partners, Team 45?N will offer a comprehensive LVM solution that fulfills the Canadian Army’s logistics mission profile, specifically designed to meet military requirements – durability, protection, payload capacity, mobility, and all-terrain capability.

RMMV’s HX series of tactical trucks already has a successful track record globally and has a well-established group of user nations, including Canada’s close allies (Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom) as well as other NATO nations (Germany, Norway, Denmark) and western countries (Austria, Sweden). These reliable military vehicles excel in all climates, are off road capable, and – most importantly – offer an unparalleled level of protection to soldiers. The combat-proven ready-to-use design can also be upgraded and modified according to specific customer needs. A true military off-the-shelf solution, the HX family of vehicles combines professional logistics with force mobility support and tactical special role applications, making it a reliable enabler for joint operations in complex environments.

Navistar Defence Canada provides unrivalled domestic and expeditionary logistic vehicle solutions. Its vehicles are among the most versatile in the world. The flexible platforms are easily tailored to meet specific mission requirements and configured in several variants such as water tankers; petroleum, oil and lubricant trucks; general troop transporters; wreckers; dump trucks; heavy equipment transport trucks; and more. They have been used in recent natural disaster relief missions in Canada and have been a key logistics force-multiplier on the front lines in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Dedicated to supporting the Canadian Armed Forces while leveraging the Canadian industry
Team 45?N is committed to supporting the Canadian Armed Forces before, during, and after deliveries while creating pan-Canadian economic growth. The partnership draws on a coast-to-coast network of suppliers and will help bolster an in-country workforce and supply chain. Rheinmetall Canada and its partners’ excellent track record in fulfilling their Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) commitments are a testament to Team 45?N’s dedication to Canadian industry.

Thanks to the alliance’s exceptional product offering, extensive experience in working with the Canadian Armed Forces, and its commitment to Canadian economic growth, Team 45?N is the solution of choice for Canada’s LVM project, as well as all other future logistic vehicle initiatives.

More information about Team 45?N can be found here: www.rheinmetall.ca/LVMTeam45N

Posted in Advertiser, International, Mobility, Press Release | 2 Comments »

Value of History in the Army

October 7th, 2021

WASHINGTON, D.C.— The study and use of history is a critical tool in the Army profession. It helps to inform current decision making, inspires Soldiers to serve, and builds morale and esprit in units.

“History helps us learn from the past, see the present and be ready for the future” said General Paul E. Funk II, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC). “You have to understand your historical roots to become an effective leader.”

At this year’s Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting from October 11-13 at the Washington Convention Center, the U.S. Army Center of Military History (CMH) will host a Kiosk promoting the value of history in the Army. Preparing Soldiers at all levels to be historically minded is a significant role for CMH, an organization within TRADOC.

The Executive Director of CMH, Charles R. Bowery, Jr. points out, “All ranks in the Army, from the most junior trainee to the Chief of Staff, benefit from historical awareness in different ways. Every Soldier should understand that they are serving something bigger than themselves.”

A true understanding of history goes well beyond simply knowing key dates and events. The lessons of history develop critical thinking skills in Soldiers as they understand the reason why and how events unfolded in the past and their connection to today. It develops a more informed use of actionable history in current staff planning and decision making.

According to Dr. Peter G. Knight, Chief of Field and International History Programs at CMH, “We frequently respond to requests for information about historical events to help develop viable courses of action for Army leaders.” Knight recommends all Soldiers can use existing programs within the Army to improve their historical perspective. “There are professional military education courses and leader developmental programs like staff rides that can hone critical thinking skills.”

Staff rides are a unique and persuasive method of teaching the lessons of the past to the present day leaders. They can bring events to life and provide a greater understanding of tactics, leadership, strategy, communications and the psychology of Soldiers in battle. The staff at CMH develop and lead staff rides for U.S. Army organizations and provide detailed staff ride pamphlets online for free downloads.

Beyond decision making, history is also a key part of many aspects of a Soldiers career from understanding the rich heritage of his or her unit to accessing VA benefits as they transition to civilian life. Knight says, “A unit history program not only helps build esprit de corps, but it helps ensure unit awards and unit campaign participation credit are up to date.”

History also builds morale and helps to inspire men and women to serve by providing examples of those who exemplify Army values. “It connects Soldiers to their unit through activations, lineage and honors, unit decorations, and unit heritage” Knight said.

Leader support for the Army History Program will improve the understanding of history and its essential application in all units. Key elements of the program include assigning unit history officers, including Command Historians as part of staff functions and the use of Military History Detachments. Knight says “If you ever asked your staff if a certain situation has happened before or how did we handle a situation in the past, then you need a unit historical program.”

Other ways to expand historical mindedness is accessing the publications and research resources on the CMH website. Bowery also points out that “The Chief of Staff’s professional reading list is the best place to start. CMH and Army University Press also have thousands of free publications that Soldiers can access.”

The value and benefits of using history in the Army are significant factors to the success of units and individual Soldiers careers. The Center of Military History is a valuable resource with multiple tools that are available to all Army units and personnel.

“The Center of Military History can do all sorts of things for a leader development program, they can provide staff rides, they can provide lessons learned, and they can be the historical reference you need.” GEN Funk said.

By Francis Reynolds

Additional Resources:

history.army.mil

Posted in Army, Guest Post, History, Profession of Arms | Comments Off on Value of History in the Army

U.S. Army Awards AeroVironment $11.7 Million Third and Final Contract Option for Raven Radio Frequency Modifications Under Existing FCS Contract

October 6th, 2021

• Final contract option exercised under the sole source Flight Control Systems (FCS) domain of the Army’s multi-year small unmanned aircraft systems contract

• Total final value of contract is $54,632,776

• U.S. Army possesses largest fleet of Raven tactical unmanned aircraft systems in the world

The Raven system is designed for low-altitude intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions that depend on rapid deployment and pinpoint maneuverability. (Photo: AeroVironment, Inc.)

ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 6, 2021 – AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global leader in intelligent, multi-domain robotic systems, today announced the United States Army exercised the third and final option under the Flight Control Systems (FCS) domain of the Army’s multi-year small unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) contract on Sept. 9, 2021. The value of the contract option is $11,731,740 and includes flight control system kits, ground control stations and tail booms for the Army’s existing fleet of Raven® tactical UAS. Delivery is scheduled to be completed by September 2022.

The contract option was exercised under the Army’s FCS domain awarded to AeroVironment in June 2019 and announced in November 2019 – the first of six domains comprising the Army’s existing five-year Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) SUAS contract – bringing the total final value of contract to $54,632,776.

“The Raven system was created to provide frontline forces with real-time, accurate over-the-horizon situational awareness in conflict areas; a capability that was unavailable at the time of its inception,” said Trace Stevenson, vice president and product line general manager of small UAS. “Today, Raven is the most widely deployed unmanned aircraft system in the world and continues to serve as a modern tool for customers to gain superiority on the battlefield.”

The Raven system is designed for rapid deployment and high mobility for operations requiring low-altitude intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR). With a wingspan of 4.5 feet and weighing just 4.2 pounds (1.9 kilograms), the hand-launched Raven provides situational awareness, day or night, with an operational range of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers). The Raven’s Mantis i23 EO/IR gimbaled payload delivers real-time video or infrared imagery to ground control and remote viewing stations.

AeroVironment’s family of tactical UAS comprises the majority of all unmanned aircraft in the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) inventory, and its rapidly growing international customer base numbers more than 50 allied governments. To learn more, visit www.avinc.com.

Posted in Army, Contracts, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on U.S. Army Awards AeroVironment $11.7 Million Third and Final Contract Option for Raven Radio Frequency Modifications Under Existing FCS Contract

U.S. Marine Corps Awards Production Contract to KONGSBERG for C-UAS Capability

October 6th, 2021

Significant Milestone for Ground Based Air Defense

JOHNSTOWN, Penn. – Oct. 5, 2021 – The U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) has awarded a production contract to Kongsberg Protech Systems USA to deliver remote weapon systems (RWS) as part of the Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS) program. The indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract has a ceiling of $94 million and includes a series of Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) systems and full-rate production units. This production contract award follows a Sept. 2020 contract award from the USMC to KONGSBERG for test articles and activities, which included Design Verification Testing (DVT).

The KONGSBERG RS6 RWS for MADIS leverages technology and competence drawn from multiple counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) and air defense programs. The system leverages commonality with the family of PROTECTOR RWS delivered and fielded with the U.S. Army and Marine Corps and will be integrated on the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) together with external sensors and effectors.

The first 30mm remote weapon system to be qualified on the JLTV platform, the KONGSBERG RS6 RWS for MADIS RWS includes the XM914E1 30mmx113mm DC driven cannon with a co-axial M240 (7.62mm) machine gun, an integration kit for the Stinger Air-To-Air Launcher (ATAL) and provisions for future C-UAS defeat systems.

“The MADIS program with KONGSBERGs RS6 30mm remote weapon system signifies a powerful lethality capability for the Marine Corps, initiating a new era in U.S. Marine Corps ground-based air defense operations,” said Pål E Bratlie, Executive Vice President, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

KONGSBERG is the world’s leading manufacturer of RWS, having delivered over 20,000 units to more than 20 countries worldwide. KONGSBERG is also the sole provider of RWS and remote turrets to the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps. All RWS and remote turrets delivered to U.S. customers are manufactured in the Kongsberg Johnstown, Penn. facility and leverage our extensive American supply base. The company takes great pride in its continued support to, and for the United States, U.S. employees, and U.S. supply base.

Posted in Contracts, Press Release, UAS, USMC | Comments Off on U.S. Marine Corps Awards Production Contract to KONGSBERG for C-UAS Capability

SHOP Show Raeford – Berry Aviation

October 6th, 2021

Berry Aviation hosted the SHOP Show San Marcos earlier this year so it was great to see them in Raeford.

Last year they added an Unmanned Aerial System Division which provides training, operations and support for both fixed wing and vertical lift platforms in Group 1, 2, & 3 UAS, as well as counter-UAS.

They also can perform payload integration and design modifications. For example, they’ve modified the DJI drone seen above to accept the SOCOM modular payload.

Posted in SHOP Show, UAS | 1 Comment »