Aquaterro

Whiskey 5 – Cold Skills Group

August 12th, 2025

Who

Cold Skills Group is a Scandinavian company founded by former special operations personnel with decades of combined experience in Arctic warfare, mountain operations, and extreme climate survival. Our team is drawn from Norway and Sweden, and all members are born and raised in the very environments we design for.

We are not only veterans of these terrains—we still live and operate here. These are our homelands, and the gear we create reflects our deep personal and professional connection to the North.

Cold Skills was recognized early for our innovation and was awarded ‘Company of the Year’ in Karlsborg in 2014. We have played a key role in the development of winter systems for leading brands such as Taiga (Torraka) since 2005.

What

Cold Skills Group develops, tests, and supplies professional-grade soldier systems for Arctic, sub-Arctic, and mountain operations. Our capabilities span across:

– Modular load-bearing systems
– Arctic shelter solutions
– Thermal protection systems
– Full-spectrum training & consultancy for cold weather operations

Our own brand, Faravid Gear, includes uniquely developed systems that are field-tested with Arctic units. From concept to delivery, we ensure every product or service we provide is operationally relevant, durable, and mission ready.

Where

Cold Skills Group is headquartered in Karlsborg, Sweden, with our R&D and field-testing operations based in Norway. We also maintain operational presence and partnerships across Finland, Eastern Europe, the UK, and beyond.

We are proud suppliers to Nordic governments and military units, with current framework agreements including the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV). We are expanding rapidly, driven by operational need and a rising focus on Arctic security in NATO.

When

Cold Skills was founded in 2002 with the singular goal of improving how professionals operate in the world’s harshest conditions. More than 20 years later, our mission remains the same—refined by experience and driven by operational feedback from some of the world’s most demanding end-users.

Why

Because standard gear fails where we operate. Cold Skills exists to provide a complete system—equipment, training, and strategy—that enables individuals and units to succeed in the coldest, most remote, and most challenging environments on Earth.

Helping you achieve your mission, is our mission.

Headquarters: Karlsborg, Sweden

R&D: Norway

www.coldskills.comYour Partner on the Northern Flank

C5ISR Center Research Connects Aided Target Recognition with Small UAS for Greater Squad Lethality

August 12th, 2025

FORT BELVOIR, Va. (Aug. 11, 2025) — Army researchers are aiming to deliver aided target recognition to unmanned aerial systems, speeding up squad target detection on the battlefield and increasing Soldier lethality.

With current systems, Soldiers manually monitor a UAS video feed, searching through large areas of terrain and obstacles for extended periods of time in a quickly moving, dynamic environment. Now, DoD scientists and engineers are integrating autonomy and threat detection to bring new capabilities for small organic Army UAS.

The Army’s Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) Center and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency have led R&D to bring new technology to Soldiers since 2019 with a specific focus on small UAS.

“The primary goal is to provide autonomy at the squad level by using high-level autonomous behaviors like Smart Search, which enables autonomous area searching, target detection, and the ability to track and follow high-priority targets,” said Mathew Wilson, the program’s lead at C5ISR Center. “Soldiers will have greater lethality, survivability and maneuverability.”

Placing UAS into the hands of Soldiers for AiTR is breaking ground in DoD research, which previously focused on Army ground platforms, Wilson said. The Army’s goals are to reduce Soldier fatigue, improve situational awareness, and enable faster, more accurate decision-making, Wilson said.

“C5ISR Center is expanding on the foundation of our extensive AiTR expertise. UAS have new capabilities as the system processes vast amounts of information for Soldiers into actionable ISR data. Removing the need to manually control UAS while automatically detecting and relaying threat information to the Squad keeps more Soldiers in the fight,” Wilson said.

In-house DoD R&D brings subject-matter experts and Soldiers together during experimentation events for direct feedback, leading to continued improvements. During Project Convergence Capstone 5, the system allowed forward observers to autonomously search beyond line-of-sight for potential threats.

Squad leader Sgt. Brian Ward, of 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, gave positive feedback on AiTR testing during PC C5.

“If someone has issues trying to find targets or personnel, it’s circling and tracking as they move,” Ward said. “It’s a game changer. If it can detect more targets, the better, especially if you can choose which one to nominate and call for engagement.”

The system populates the data on a common operating picture using existing Army infrastructure — Android Tactical Assault Kit and Nett Warrior device — to avoid the need to field additional software and hardware. The ATAK interface allows command and control of the UAS’ autonomous behaviors.

“The UAS automatically launched, traversed to the area of interest, autonomously searched and passed back detected targets without any further human interaction. Since AiTR has not yet been fielded, automatically detecting potential threats was a huge hit,” Wilson said.

By Dan Lafontaine, C5ISR Center Public Affairs

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems Highlights Its Missile Defense Portfolio at the 2025 Space and Missile Defense Symposium

August 11th, 2025

HUNTSVILLE, Ala., August 4, 2025 – General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) returns to the Space and Missile Defense Symposium to highlight its missile defense solutions supporting Golden Dome, a layered missile defense architecture designed to protect the nation from a range of advanced missile threats including hypersonic, ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as other airborne threats.

GA-EMS will showcase the designs for their Bullseye™ missile and Long-Range Maneuvering Projectile (LRMP), with a 1:1 scale model and 1:2 scale model in their booth. The company has accelerated integration and testing of its missile defense technologies to demonstrate advanced capabilities and move rapidly toward field deployment.

“Our LRMP aligns with dynamic defense requirements for improved long-range precision strikes and minimizes operational uncertainty by integrating into existing artillery systems,” said Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS. “The next phase of full-system testing will validate the projectile’s performance across complex scenarios and ensure seamless integration with missile defense frameworks.”

Bullseye is a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 8 missile system that shares 80% of its components with combat-proven TRL 9 missile systems, fully validated through successful real-world operations.

Attendees visiting Booth #531 will engage directly with GA-EMS experts to explore system designs and planned field-testing initiatives for both LRMP and Bullseye. GA-EMS will also feature its portfolio of laser weapon systems, hypersonics and sensor payloads for missile defense and tracking-offering greater flexibility and capability to support both offensive and defensive missions.

About General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) develops innovative technologies to create breakthrough solutions supporting operational environments from undersea to space. From electromagnetic, power generation and energy storage systems and space systems and satellites, to hypersonic, missile defense, and laser weapon systems, GA-EMS offers an expanding portfolio of capabilities for defense, government, and national security customers. GA-EMS also provides commercial products and services targeting hazardous waste remediation, oil and gas, and nuclear energy industries.

For further information, visit www.ga.com/ems

Mack Defense Secures New Five-Year Contract for M917A3 Heavy Dump Trucks with U.S. Army

August 11th, 2025

ALLENTOWN, PA (August 11, 2025) – Mack Defense has been awarded a new five-year contract to continue production of the U.S. Army’s M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck (HDT) for up to 450 trucks with a total contract value up to $221.8 million. This new agreement follows the successful fulfillment of the initial contract awarded in 2018 and comes after the company recently celebrated the production of its 500th M917A3 HDT in March 2025.


Mack Defense has been awarded a new five-year contract to continue production of the U.S. Army’s M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck (HDT) for up to 450 trucks with a total contract value up to $221.8 million.

“This contract represents continued confidence in our ability to deliver mission-critical vehicles to the U.S. Army,” said David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense. “The M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck is a commercial-based truck modified to meet mission-critical functionality that directly supports the Army, Army Reserve and Army National Guard operations within the United States and around the world. This new contract award is a testament to the commitment of our team, which includes our supplier partners, as well as to the robust capabilities of this heavy tactical vehicle platform. We look forward to building and delivering more reliable, high-performance trucks that meet the demanding needs of our soldiers.”

The new contract, awarded June 24, 2025, will ensure continued production of the critically important M917A3 HDTs that support the U.S. military’s construction and infrastructure maintenance capabilities. These vehicles play a vital role in supporting construction and upkeep of airfields, roadways, landing strips, supply facilities, motor pools and in disaster relief for areas affected by severe weather.

Based on the commercially available Mack® Granite® model, the M917A3 HDTs are manufactured at Mack Defense’s dedicated production line at the Mack Experience Center (MEC) in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The specialized production facility has been in operation since 2021 following a $6.5 million investment to create a dedicated HDT production line, which leverages the capabilities and production work force of Mack’s main Lehigh Valley production operations located in Macungie, Pennsylvania.

“From day one, we’ve worked hard to foster a transparent, collaborative relationship – one that has helped ensure this program remains on track, on time and aligned with the Army’s evolving needs, said Derik Beck, senior director of sales, marketing and business development at Mack Defense. “We are also proud to continue working closely with U.S. Army, the U.S. Army Reserve and the various U.S. National Guard Adjutant Generals, whose ongoing support has been essential to the program’s success. As we move into the next phase, we’re committed to maintaining that level of engagement while also looking to our Congressional stakeholders for sustained support. This program is not only vital to Army readiness but also to preserving critical manufacturing jobs and capabilities within our U.S. industrial base.”

The M917A3 HDTs are spec’d with heavier-duty rear axles, all-wheel drive, increased suspension ride height and other ruggedized features to meet the unique requirements of the U.S. military. The vehicles also feature advanced technology including ABS, modern control interfaces and active safety systems.

The M917A3 Heavy Dump Truck is an essential asset to the Army’s Engineer Regiment, providing the mobility and durability needed to complete critical construction and infrastructure missions in diverse operational environments. Mack Defense is committed to delivering a high-quality, mission-ready vehicle that meets the Army’s evolving needs.

Since the initial contract award in 2018, which allowed for up to 683 trucks at a value up to $296 million, the U.S. military has ordered 549 HDTs from Mack Defense, with additional orders coming from both the U.S. Army and U.S. National Guard.

Mack Defense, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mack Trucks, is responsible for the sale of heavy-duty trucks to federal- and ministerial-level customers globally. For more information, please visit www.mackdefense.com.

CTOMS Announces the Acquisition of Performance Manufacturing and the Amarok Technical Gear Brand

August 11th, 2025

Edmonton, Alberta (August 2025)

CTOMS was founded in 2006 as a tactical medicine training company and evolved into a global leader in innovative micro-rope solutions for tactical and rescue operations. CTOMS is excited to announce the acquisition of Performance Manufacturing, an experienced manufacturing company more recently known for producing key rope control devices for CTOMS’ TRACE Systems and Firefly, the world’s smallest and lightest comprehensive capability micro-rope system and vertical egress/bail-out system, respectively. This acquisition also brings with it the Amarok Technical Gear brand, including complementary products like the Helo Lanyard™ for adjustable safety retention in a helicopter and the ciao Nut Tool for rock anchor cleaning, into CTOMS’ product line.

This strategic move enhances CTOMS’ ability to expand market reach, scale operations, and accelerate research and development. This will ensure greater product availability and faster innovation for customers worldwide. New product developments, tailored for the vertical and aviation environments requiring the lightest and most advanced equipment, are already underway.

Chris Kopp, CEO of CTOMS, stated:

“This acquisition brings new expertise and capabilities to CTOMS, streamlining our ability to innovate and develop cutting-edge products to continue to lead the way in lightweight, low-pack volume vertical access, egress, and rescue solutions.”

Randy Sawatsky, Founder of Performance Manufacturing, added:

“Joining forces with CTOMS unlocks growth opportunities and fuels research and development that would not have been possible otherwise, paving the way for exciting advancements.”

This acquisition positions CTOMS and Performance Manufacturing to redefine industry standards for micro-rope system use in vertical access and rescue equipment. For more information on CTOMS’ expanded product line, visit www.ctomsinc.com and www.ctomsropesystems.com.

Leapfest 2025 – 40 Years of International Airborne Camaraderie and Competition

August 11th, 2025

Last weekend, paratroopers from around the world dropped into Exeter, Rhode Island for the 40th annual Leapfest, the iconic international military static line parachute competition hosted by the Rhode Island Army National Guard’s 56th Troop Command.

Established in 1982, Leapfest is recognized as the largest and longest-running event of its kind, dedicated to testing the airborne skills of military teams through rigorous competition and fostering camaraderie among participants. This year’s event brought together teams from across the United States military and 18 foreign countries.

Participants jumped from CH-47 Chinook helicopters at an altitude of 1,500 feet, with each four-member team aiming to land as close as possible to designated targets. The event tested both individual and team proficiency, with strict eligibility requirements permitting only currently serving military personnel to compete.

Leapfest continues its tradition of promoting international friendship and esprit de corps among airborne soldiers. In addition to the competition itself, the event featured a foreign jump exchange, giving paratroopers the opportunity to earn foreign jump wings. The closing ceremony highlighted the broad international participation and celebrated the achievements of all involved.

Reflecting its international nature, the top 3 teams came from the United States, Canada, and Hungary. The full results for both team and individual performances can be found on the Leapfest website.

We congratulate the winners and all participants for their professionalism, dedication, and Airborne Spirit. Leapfest will return again next year, continuing its legacy as THE rendezvous for airborne soldiers worldwide.

Via Strike-Hold!

All photos: 982nd Combat Camera Company (Airborne)

Stoic Conditioning Presents: Spiritus Systems Break Down the Kit They Designed for the Royal Marines

August 11th, 2025

I’m sure if the cat was ever in the bag, but if it was, it’s out now. In conjunction with their government sales partner in the UK, Edgar Brothers, Spiritus Systems was selected to supply the Royal Marines with new kit modular which will update their currently issued Virtus armor vest with new pocket options as well as a chest rig capability.

This has also been a factor in the delay of the LV-120 as Spiritus Systems made some tweaks to the design after feedback from the RM.

At SHOT Show, Stoic Conditioning shot this great video of Adam Holroyd going over the kit.

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Is the TacValve ModCan 1Qt Your Next Canteen?

August 11th, 2025

A couple of weeks ago I ran across a relatively product, the ModCan, made by a company called TacValve. Right afterward I had the opportunity it to speak with the creator of this new 1 quart hydration flask who related that he designed it based upon his experience as a Special Forces NCO.

It seems that since the advent of MOLLE and the Camelbak hydration reservoir (and it’s clones) the GI issue 1 Qt canteen isn’t a common sight on a load carriage system. Instead, we are seeing a lot of Nalgene bottles but they are an adaptation to the function rather than purpose built for the “Soldier’s load”.

The ModCan is designed based on need. It features a large removable lid so you can quickly fill it from a stream if need be. In fact, it’s the same size as a Nalgene mouth so you can use the same screw-on purification systems you ready own. Additionally, it’s made from SERVOGARD antimicrobial and anti-fungal plastic so you don’t have the issues of the funk that would grow on the old 1 Qt GI canteen. It’s also BPA, BPS, PFAS, and phthalate-free.

Squeezable for pressurized flow, the ModCan also features a clear strip down the side called a Viewstrip, so you can see how much liquid is left inside.

Something I really like about it is that it has an NBC cap which is compatible with Protective Masks fitted with a NATO standard hydration tube by fitting an Avon Water Canteen Cap (8465-01-529-9800) or Dräger Canteen Cap. It is also compatible with a Mira Canteen Cap.

During my discussion with TacValve they revealed that they are awaiting certification from the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND) for use in a slimed environment.

I’ve seen some promising alternatives to the 1qt canteen in the past but the designers were unfortunately underfunded. TacValve’s production is scalable with an ability to flex to up to 50,000 units per week. They underestimated the initial demand and are working to quickly rectify that.

We’ve currently got a military looking for US made gear that can be procured at scale during a crisis, and the ModCan fits that bill. In the meantime, they’ll be available for end of year purchases which close in early September. They can be ordered by the case which contains 72 ModCans.

Hopefully, we will see the ModCan evaluated by the Army during an upcoming Advanced Expeditionary Warfighter Experiment (or equivalent) or through the Soldier Enhancement Program soon.

Meanwhile, you can order yours at tacvalve.com. I believe they will be back in stock with week. Additionally, CANA Provisions should have them back in stock soon as well. I understand they sold out in hours last time they had them in stock.

Offered in OD Green, Coyote, Gray, Black, and Clear. I can’t wait to get my hands on some of these.