Today marks the 81st year since the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, an event which resulted in the deaths of 2402 Americans and would plunge the United States into world war.
It is, as President Roosevelt proclaimed as he addressed a stunned nation, “A date which will live in infamy.”
While we will never forget that day, let’s also not forget those men and women who did what had to be done to keep us free. We owe them a debt to keep up the fight.
PALMDALE, Calif. (AFNS) —
In a tangible display of the nation’s resolve in meeting security threats, the U.S. Air Force, on Dec. 2, publicly unveiled the B-21 Raider, the first new, long-range strike bomber in a generation and an aircraft specifically designed to be the multifunctional backbone of the modernized bomber fleet.
While the B-21 isn’t expected to be operational and introduced into service for several more years, the formal unveiling ceremony hosted by Northrop Grumman Corporation at its production facilities in California is a significant milestone in the Air Force’s effort to modernize combat capabilities. The B-21 is designed to be a more capable and adaptable, state-of-the-art aircraft that will gradually replace aging B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit bombers now in service.
According to design requirements, the B-21 is a long-range, highly survivable stealth bomber capable of delivering a mix of conventional and nuclear munitions. The aircraft will play a major role supporting national security objectives and assuring U.S. allies and partners across the globe.
Senior defense officials note that the National Defense Strategy and other analyses make clear the need for the B-21 and its capabilities.
“The B-21 Raider is the first strategic bomber in more than three decades,” Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin said during the ceremony. “It is a testament to America’s enduring advantages in ingenuity and innovation. And it’s proof of the Department’s long-term commitment to building advanced capabilities that will fortify America’s ability to deter aggression, today and into the future.”
The B-21, Austin said, “is deterrence the American way. … This isn’t just another airplane. It’s not just another acquisition. … It’s the embodiment of America’s determination to defend the republic that we all love. It’s a testament to our strategy of deterrence—with the capabilities to back it up, every time and everywhere.”
The world and its threats have changed dramatically since the last new bomber was introduced in 1988, as has the way the Air Force, other U.S. military services and allies work together as a joint, multi-domain force. Senior defense officials say that new thinking and innovation are needed to meet the new and emerging threats.
“That innovative spirit is sitting behind us right now,” Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., told reporters shortly before the plane was unveiled.
“You think about what we’re able to do in the amount of time with the workforce here from Northrop Grumman, the collaboration with the United States Air Force to bring in a capability using a digital approach which is new and different from anything we’ve done any major program, that’s part of the Raider spirit,” he said.
The B-21 is the first new bomber to be introduced since the end of the Cold War. Air Force officials envision an ultimate fleet of at least 100 aircraft with an average procurement unit cost requirement of $692 million (base year 2022 dollars).
“When I think about accelerate change, this is exactly what it means to be able to bring this kind of capability very quickly and be able to adapt it vis-à-vis the threat,” Brown said in his meeting with reporters. “And so today, I’m really excited that we bring the B-21 Raider into the future. It’ll be the backbone of our bomber fleet.”
The aircraft is designed with updated stealth qualities and mission flexibility that senior leaders in the Air Force and across the Department of Defense say are necessary to achieve the U.S. goal of achieving integrated deterrence, and if necessary, capabilities required to successfully respond to aggression anywhere in the world at any time.
The specific B-21 unveiled Dec. 2 is one of six under production. Each is considered a test aircraft, but each is being built on the same production line, using the same tools, processes, and technicians who will build production aircraft. This approach has enabled production engineers and technicians to capture lessons learned and apply them directly to follow-on aircraft, driving home a focus on repeatability, producibility and quality.
The timing for first flight will be data and event, not date driven.
While the precise date when the B-21 will enter service is unknown, basing decisions have been made. Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota will become the first Main Operating Base and formal training unit for the B-21. Whiteman AFB, Missouri, and Dyess AFB, Texas, are the preferred locations for the remaining home bases. Each will receive aircraft as they become available.
In addition to building a bomber with state-of-the-art technology and capabilities, Air Force officials emphasized the focus on containing costs while simultaneously allowing for maximum flexibility.
For example, the B-21 is designed with an open systems architecture that will enable rapid future capability integration to keep pace with the highly contested threat environment.
The B-21 design is based on firm requirements with existing and mature technology to control program costs. In fact, the plane’s prime contractor, Northrop Grumman, has been directed to use production processes, production tooling, and a production workforce that ensures sustained and seamless production while avoiding unnecessary costs.
“Leveraging innovative manufacturing techniques, open systems architectures and active management allows us to integrate new technology as it matures and ensures the B-21 can adapt to future threats and be successful when and where we need it,” Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Andrew P. Hunter, said.
By Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
Fork Union, VA – Red Arrow Weapons answered the need for firearms focused specifically on home defense and sport shooting with the launch of two new 9mm models.
Customers can choose between a midsize option with 9-inch handguard and a shorter option with 7-inch handguard. Both options include a recessed 3-inch blast can to push percussion and gases forward for an improved user experience.
The 9mm models also come outfitted with premium upgrades, including an ambidextrous selector, integrated hand stop, a 2.5-pound single stage trigger, and three cerakote color options.
With high-quality options at an affordable price point, Red Arrow Weapons has created its own category in the firearms market.
To learn more about Red Arrow Weapons and browse the full lineup of products, visit redarrowweapons.com.
Menomonee Falls, WI (December 6, 2022) – Vortakt Barrel Works® continues to expand upon its 16,500 square-foot Wisconsin production facility as part of its ongoing effort to serve as a world-class OEM barrel supplier for rifle, pistol, and shotgun manufacturers. Chad Weister, Managing Director of Vortakt Barrel Works had the following to say regarding these latest developments:
“We’re expanding our in-house production capabilities by automating processes that were formerly manually executed. This helps us expand our product offering, allows for more repeatable processes, and improves consistency in our finished barrels.”
Vortakt’s Facility Improvement Plan includes a revised shop layout involving the reorganization of numerous CNC machining cells, the addition of a Gorbel crane system designed to support large-volume government barrel contracts, a 50-ton air conditioning system enabling unprecedented climate control capabilities, the creation of a 5,000 square-foot warehouse space designed to accommodate Vortakt’s new QuickShip inventory fulfillment program, and the addition of a new break and recreation space.
To learn more about the Vortakt Barrel Works facility, production capabilities, and manufacturing team, visit www.vortakt.com.
Justin, TX – (December 1, 2022) – Canoo (NASDAQ: GOEV), a leading high-tech advanced mobility company, has delivered its new Light Tactical Vehicle (LTV) to the United States Army for Analysis & Demonstration in fulfillment of the contract awarded in July 2022.
The LTV is engineered for extreme environments and includes stealth configurations. Designed to be durable with a focus on passenger and battery safety, the LTV incorporates carbon Kevlar for strength without the added weight. As with all Canoo vehicles, the LTV is designed for passenger ergonomics, taking body motion and height into consideration, as well as multi-tasker components.
“The LTV is another milestone proving the power of our technology and how it can be used, even in tactical situations,” said Tony Aquila, Chairman & CEO at Canoo. “This is a winning algorithm for our customers and company.”
Modular for Multiple Use Cases: Convertible Flatbed, Mounting Racks, Ramps & Tactical Systems
A jack-of-all trades, the Light Tactical Vehicle can be converted from a pickup to a flatbed truck, a cargo vehicle and more. With a convertible flatbed platform, the LTV can easily carry standard sized plywood, construction and oversized materials, as well as tactical equipment or attachments for the required mission.
Canoo’s proprietary modular attachment system and accessories quickly interchange the flatbed walls with many other types of mounts including racks, ramps, storage boxes, tents, or tactical systems. The modular upfitting enables the LTV to have mission-specific configurations at a lower total cost investment.
Enhanced Performance: Powertrain + Suspension to Get the Job Done
The LTV has a proprietary all-wheel drive system with up to 600 hp. To support the increased demands of off-road environments, the LTV incorporates air-springs, a raised suspension, and 32-inch all-terrain tires to build higher ground clearance suitable for extreme or rugged conditions.
One Platform, Many Variants
Canoo vehicles are based on the company’s proprietary multi-purpose platform which integrates all the critical components of an electric powertrain, so it is as flat and efficient as possible, while maximizing cabin and cargo space.
Full specifications will be revealed closer to production. Canoo’s line of battery electric vehicles are purpose-built to help customers be more productive and achieve a higher return on capital while reducing total cost of professional ownership.
215 Gear has introduced an adapter which allows you to adapt your Blackhawk T-Series holster to the Safariland QLS system.
By removing the Blackhawk Quick Disconnect system and replacing it with this adaptor and a QLS Fork, you achieve a 4.5 oz weight reduction.
The 215 Gear adapter is machined from 6061 Aluminum and comes with US made fasteners.
www.215gearstore.com/blackhawksafarilandadapterblack
FN’s First Commercial Pistol Suppressor Designed for Reduced Blowback and Effective Sound Suppression Delivers an Unmatched Shooting Experience
(McLean, VA – December 6, 2022) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce the release of its first commercial pistol suppressor, the FN Rush™ 9Ti. This highly reliable, durable and versatile 9mm pistol suppressor is made from a lightweight Titanium-hybrid construction and was developed for an unmatched shooting experience with the FN 509 tactical line of pistols and other 1/2×28”-threaded firearms. The unique booster assembly, blast baffle and baffle stack design provide a tight gas piston seal and even gas distribution that flows the gases forward to deliver reduced blowback to the user’s face, reduces recoil and provides effective sound suppression.
“The FN Rush 9Ti is the first introduction in FN’s portfolio of firearm accessories that enhance the end user’s shooting experience,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for FN America, LLC. “Our goal with developing the Rush 9Ti was to give consumers a reliable and durable 9mm suppressor that met FN’s rigorous quality standards and would integrate seamlessly with the FN 509 and other 9mm hosts. We tackled some of most common complaints about suppressor performance like blowback and recoil reduction to deliver a final product capable of mitigating both.”
Perfected for performance with the FN 509 tactical line of pistols and other 9mm hosts, the FN Rush 9Ti delivers smooth, reliable function while maintaining the accuracy standards that FN owners depend upon. The overall slim design and lightweight Titanium-hybrid construction provide the perfect counterbalance to reduce recoil and maintain a clear sight picture with suppressor-height sights. The simple design also breaks down for maintenance with the included front/end cap assembly tools.
The included 1/2×28” booster assembly is entirely unique and is the smallest, most lightweight on the market. Its tight gas piston seal along with the unique gas flow through the blast chamber and baffle stack perfectly time the gas flow back into the firearm and through the suppressor tube. This enables near neutral impact to slide cycle speeds that drastically improve reliability, allowing users to have a more enjoyable shooting experience with dependable feeding and extraction across a wide array of commercial loads from light training rounds to subsonic loads. Additionally, the design dramatically improves system durability with reduced back pressure into the firearm, thus reducing overall wear and tear along with felt recoil.
“When selecting a suppressor, customers often have to choose between effective sound suppression, reduced blowback or felt recoil; you very rarely get all in one,” said John Ryan, Director of Product Management for FN America, LLC. “Our team developed a suppressor that delivers an unmatched shooting experience straight from the box. You no longer have to settle for one or the other with the Rush 9Ti.”
The FN Rush 9Ti is a highly reliable, durable and versatile 9mm suppressor that can mount easily to any 1/2×28” host and doesn’t compromise on sound suppression, gas blowback or recoil.
Specifications:
• Caliber Rating: 9x19mm
• Overall Length: 7.3 inches
• Tube Diameter: 1.375 inches
• Weight: 10.8 ounces excluding piston
• Included 1/2×28” piston
• Included end cap/front cap assembly tool
• Titanium tube, high-heat stainless steel blast and tulip baffles, aircraft-grade aluminum baffle stack
• Available in Flat Dark Earth or Black HT Cerakote
• Limited lifetime warranty
To learn more about the FN Rush 9Ti, please visit fnamerica.com/rush9ti.
Textron’s Bell V-280 Valor tilt-rotor has been selected by the US Army as its Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft to eventually replace the Blackhawk fleet of helicopters.
Due to the tilt-rotor design the V-280 can fly at up to 280 knots with a combat range of up to 800 nm. It also carries more troops and cargo, with up to 14 troops and a max takeoff weight of over 30,000 lbs compared to 9 passengers and 22,000 lbs for the UH-60M.
The initial contract award is for $232 million but could be worth as much as $70 billion.
There will be an initial 19 month period of additional development and testing with a goal of fielding beginning in 2030.
The Army plans to initially buy 750 to 1,000 FLRAA examples and operate a mix of Blackhawks and Valors for decades. For those shocked by the decision to continue to use the Blackhawk, please remember that the Air Force has just begun to phase out it’s UH-1 Hueys that began service in the 1960s and the Marines have just completed an upgrade with their UH-1Y Venom.
