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Milrem Robotics to Deliver 14 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine in Cooperation with KMW

December 3rd, 2022

The leading European robotics and autonomous systems developer, Milrem Robotics, and the German defence company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) have signed a contract to deliver 14 THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) to Ukraine.

Of the 14 vehicles, seven will be configured for casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) and are scheduled to be delivered by the end of this year. The other seven, to be delivered in the second quarter of 2023, will be configured for route clearance with payloads from the French defence manufacturer CNIM Systèmes Industriels.

The effort is being funded by the German Ministry of Defence.

“Casualty evacuation and route clearance are two labour-intensive activities that require the engagement of several people who remain in constant threat of enemy fire. Automating these tasks with unmanned vehicles alleviates that danger and allows more soldiers to stay in a safe area or be tasked for more important activities,” explained Captain (res) Jüri Pajuste, Defence R&D Director at Milrem Robotics.

Milrem Robotics delivered one CASEVAC THeMIS to a Ukrainian charitable organization earlier this year that has proven to be a valuable asset.

“The deployment of the THEMIS UGV to Ukraine means that the Ukrainian forces can increase the safety of their soldiers and let the UGVs handle tasks that are an immediate threat to humans. That is the ultimate purpose of robotic systems. Milrem Robotics is proud to be able to contribute to Ukraine’s fight against the aggressor,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.

“This important project gives evidence of our common ability to provide advanced technology to Ukraine. We are determined to support Ukraine with protective and lifesaving equipment. The fast delivery of 14 THeMIS UGVs proves that KMW and Milrem are partners you can rely on,” said Ralf Ketzel, CEO of KMW.

THeMIS is a multi-mission unmanned ground vehicle with an open architecture that enables it to be rapidly configured from having a transport function to being weaponized, performing ordnance disposal or supporting intelligence operations according to the nature of the mission.

The THeMIS UGV is already part of different programs in 16 countries, including eight NATO members: Estonia, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, the UK, and the US.

Security Force Assistance Primer

December 3rd, 2022

Since 2018, the Army has fielded six purpose-built security force assistance brigades (SFABs) to advise or train with vetted foreign security forces so Army brigade combat teams could focus their training and readiness to participate in large-scale combat operations.

Most of the security force assistance (SFA) planners and practitioners interviewed for this SFA primer publication agree that the authorities to conduct SFA are inconsistent with current SFA activities conducted in several countries around the world.

A general lack of understanding on how these activities are funded has led to inefficient SFAB use. This primer explores current SFA literature to determine if the doctrine is accurate, understandable, and consistent with other doctrine or if further doctrine revisions are required.

The intent of this primer is to review how the Army provides trained and ready SFA capabilities for combatant commands’ (CCMDs’) security cooperation (SC) programs and related activities coordinated through their theater armies.

The principal audience for this primer is theater army SC planners, division and brigade leaders and staffs, and Soldiers assigned or attached as advisors to brigades that execute SFA missions or echelons above brigade accomplishing the same missions.

Read Full Document:

23-02 (703)_Security Force Assistance Primer (Nov 22) (Public).pdf [PDF – 2.3 MB]

Visit Our Website:

www.army.mil/CALL

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By Center for Army Lessons Learned

DroneShield and XRG Partner for Extended Reality Training

December 2nd, 2022

DroneShield is pleased to advise it has teamed with xReality Group Ltd (ASX:XRG) (XRG) to provide eXtended Reality (XR) based counterdrone/C-UAS training solutions.
 
XR includes Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR). It combines physical and digital simulation across the enterprise, defence and consumer markets.

The XR category for military and law enforcement is growing rapidly with the market predicted to grow US$16bn in 2027

XRG’s subsidiary “Operator Tactical Solutions” develops immersive planning, rehearsal and training solutions for the military and law enforcement markets, across local and international markets. XRG is led by Wayne Jones, who prior to establishing XRG was a highly decorated Patrol Commander with the Special Air Service Regiment. Additional information about XRG can be found at xrgroup.com.au.

As part of the launch, XRG will be promoting the training solution at the I/ITSEC 2022 Exhibition in Orlando Florida, taking place November 28th – December 2nd. Additional information about the event can be found at www.iitsec.org.

A video showing some of the highlights of the XR-based counter-UAS solutions can be seen here: 

DroneShield CEO, Oleg Vornik, commented: “As the counterdrone industry continues to rapidly grow and develop, evidenced by significant use of small drones by both side in the Ukraine war, there is an emergent need for counterdrone tactics and training packages for the system operators. As the global leader in the C-UAS sector, DroneShield is well placed to provide the training.

“We are excited to partner with XRG, who have deep experience in defence and law enforcement eXtended Reality training, and work in partnership with our customers to tailor design packages to meet their operational requirements.”

XRG CEO, Wayne Jones, added: “Today’s battlefield is evolving quickly making it difficult for front line defenders to be prepared for all situations. Operator’s solutions are enabling defence and law enforcement to rapidly train for these new situations in realistic, virtual environments. We are pleased to be able to add cutting-edge XR-based Counter Drone training programs to Operator’s product offering, in partnership with the C-UAS market leader, DroneShield.”

Normine Lombard Accepting Appointments for SHOT Show 2023

December 2nd, 2022

Recruitment firm brings innovative solutions to a challenging hiring landscape

Portland, OR – Normine Lombard, the product-centric recruitment firm with over a decade of experience in consumer goods, is now booking appointments at Booth 40809 for SHOT Show. The firm holds a strong success rate in transitioning the right talent to the right role due to their customized hiring methods and in-depth knowledge of the outdoor and tactical space.

“Simply put: the hiring landscape has changed, people are looking for a connection to their teammates, environment, and the products they are working with.” Managing Partner Amanda Normine said. “Modern day hiring requires a customized and targeted approach to building a team, and each hiring journey is going to be unique.”

Whether you’re looking for a candidate with very specific qualifications to take your team to the next level or you’re simply losing money due to an open position you are struggling to fill, Normine Lombard understands the competition, the tangible skills, and the intangible passions necessary to succeed in the outdoor industry. The firm’s thoroughly researched hiring process adapts to their clients and partner’s needs, affably moving with them every step of the way, while managing expectations on both sides to ensure a smooth transition of talent.

“We have explicitly honed our approach to serving product centric clients, and we are the best wingmen in the market.” Normine said. “We’re picky about our clients, because we go to bat for them in a heavy-hitting way.”

To secure an appointment during the 2023 SHOT Show, or to learn more about Normine Lombard’s offering in this space, contact Amanda Normine at amanda@normine-lombard.com.

For more information, visit: normine-lombard.com

Galvion to Supply US Marine Corps with Squad Power Manager (SPM)

December 2nd, 2022

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of military power and data management solutions is pleased to announce that it has received a major order from the United States Marine Corps (USMC) for its Squad Power ManagerTM (SPM). The order, valued at USD $11 million, placed by the Power Team within Marine Corps System Command’s Logistics Combat Element Systems will supply SPMTM systems to each Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) within the Marine Corps, including Reserve Forces. The Squad Power Manager (SPM) is a core element of Galvion’s Nerv Centr® Active Systems range, which provides scalable power and data solutions to the dismounted operator. Deliveries will start in January 2023.

Named P2S2 (Portable Power Scavenger System) by the Marine Corps, the Galvion SPM kit provides a lightweight and compact multifunctional system to enable the harvesting of energy from multiple sources. Using a selection of cables, connectors and accessories, the system provides the ability to scavenge, distribute, and manage power from multiple power sources to include solar, Alternating Current (AC), Direct Current (DC), military batteries, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) plugs, and vehicle cigarette lighter/alternator attachments. The SPM kit contains adapters to power USB-powered equipment; radios, including the AN/PRC-148, AN/PRC-152 and AN/PRC-117; the Defense Advanced GPS Receiver (DAGR); and portable computing devices and peripheral equipment. The SPM kit can scavenge power from partially discharged batteries, vehicles, and standard electrical outlets and convert that power into a usable format for powering devices and recharging batteries.

The SPM system 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 logistic 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 proud to see our SPM kits being adopted by the Marine Corps. With customized SPM kits already in use across all U.S. DoD branches, including the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, and SOCOM, this compact, intelligent power manager continues to deliver meaningful capability improvements that reduce the physical, cognitive and logistical burden on our warfighters. By providing the very best technical and engineering solutions possible, we help to increase their agility, lethality and survivability, and continue in our mission to protect and support those who protect us.”

Mack Bolan Convention

December 2nd, 2022

In 1985, Mack Bolan creator Don Pendleton held the first and only convention for his iconic crime fighter in San Francisco. Hosted by publisher Gold Eagle Books, over 1,000 fans attended to convention.

The tale of the event is told at www.donpendleton.com/mack-bolan-convention.

5.11 Holiday Gift Guide – Stratos Full Zip

December 2nd, 2022

On this last day of 5.11 Tactical Holiday Gift Guide, I’ve added something to keep you warm for those of you in colder environs. In fact, the Stratos Full Zip is a cardigan-style which can be worn as a layer anywhere the temperature drops to the point youll want to warm up.

Made from a grid fleece, the Stratos features Raglan sleeves and two zippered hand warmer pockets.

Offered in Black, Ranger Green, Red Bourbon, and Dark Navy, sizes XS – 2XL.

www.511tactical.com/stratos-full-zip

FirstSpear Friday Focus: 12 Days of Christmas

December 2nd, 2022

Click HERE to enter. Happy Holiday’s killers.

Visit FirstSpear to find America’s Best tactical gear this holiday season.