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DroneShield Enters the Sonar Market with SonarOne

September 7th, 2021

DroneShield Ltd (ASX:DRO) (“DroneShield” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce a material capability upgrade to its multi-domain DroneSentryTM counterdrone / counter-UxS threat awareness and response system, via addition of SonarOneTM, cutting edge sonar detection system, for directional real time reporting of underwater threats.

SonarOneTM is a sophisticated sonar monitoring device capable of detecting and tracking hostile unmanned underwater vehicles (“UUVs”) or diver intruders in protected waters. Ideal for deployment around naval vessels, harbours, and critical infrastructure, SonarOneTM is easy to install and monitor via the DroneSentry-C2TM, DroneShield’s intuitive and easy to use operator interface, with no specialist sonar training required.

Oleg Vornik, DroneShield’s CEO, commented, “With the inclusion of SonarOne, the DroneSentry system provides a comprehensive all-domain awareness and protection system, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), Unmanned Water Surface Vehicles (USVs), UUVs, and divers.

As the original counter-UAS market pioneer which set the industry standards since its inception, we are pleased to continue leading the market by offering this breakthrough unique capability to our customers globally.”

Image: overview of a facility protected with the full suite of DroneShield sensors

With a substantial detection range for divers and UUVs, SonarOneTM can protect large sites with few installation points, reducing the amount of preparation required by the installer and the need for pre-existing infrastructure. With its directional capability and simultaneous tracking of multiple targets, SonarOneTM provides the operator with complete awareness of multi-directional underwater robotic and manned swarm attacks.

The product is unrestricted in deployment, meaning it is available for sale, and expected to be of interest to, a wide range of customers including ports, harbours, naval bases, private yachts, residences, power stations, and various offshore platforms.

Additional product details are available here.

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Rheinmetall and RBSL to Attend DSEI 2021

September 7th, 2021

The DSEI 2021 defence show takes place this year in London from 14 to 17 September. This year’s motto is “Powering Progress – Defining Your Future”. Rheinmetall and its joint venture company Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) will be on hand, showcasing some of their activities and products at stand H5-110. These include key projects relating to the revamp of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces:

Boxer Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV)

In November 2019, the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) awarded the MIV contract via OCCAR to Artec GmbH – a joint venture between Rheinmetall and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW). The contract will deliver over 500 Boxer vehicles across four variants: troop transporters, command vehicles, field ambulances and specialist carriers.

Manufacture of the Boxer vehicles has been subcontracted between UK companies, RBSL and WFEL. RBSL has placed a number of UK supplier contracts to support delivery of the vehicles and, in June 2021, welding on the first prototype began at Rheinmetall’s plant in Kassel.

RBSL and Rheinmetall are working closely together to ensure the transfer of knowledge and technology to deliver Boxer at the highest quality. Delivery of Rheinmetall and RBSL’s portion of the vehicles is due from 2023. Rheinmetall and RBSL will showcase a Boxer vehicle at DSEI.

Challenger 3 programme

As announced in May 2021, RBSL will be transforming a total of 148 Challenger 2 Main Battle Tanks into the new Challenger 3 configuration.

The upgrade includes a new turret incorporating digital system architecture and Rheinmetall’s tried-and-tested 120mm smoothbore L55A1 tank gun and state-of-the-art Kinetic Energy tank rounds and the latest programmable High Explosive multipurpose ammunition.

The Challenger 3 will be a network-enabled digital MBT that combines maximum lethality with greatly improved battlefield survivability. Rheinmetall and RBSL will showcase the Challenger 3 demonstrator vehicle at DSEI.

Several other innovative products will also be on display in London, including

Rheinmetall’s HX3 10×10 wheeled self-propelled howitzer

The Group’s new HX3 generation stands out on account of its improved crew protection, even greater mobility, enhanced driving comfort and digital interface architecture, resulting in even greater operational flexibility as well as creating scope for future performance upgrades.

The HX3 builds on the highly-prized core strengths and family concept of its HX2 predecessor, to become an even more advanced mobile platform for complex weapon and radar systems.

These include truck-based artillery systems, which are likely to play an increasingly prominent role in coming years. On show at DSEI is the Rheinmetall wheeled self-propelled howitzer mounted on a high-mobility HX 10×10 chassis. It is equipped with a highly protected cab and a fully automatic, remote-controlled artillery turret. The HX 10×10 will serve in future as a standard platform for a variety of artillery systems and similar military hardware.

The Mission Master family

Robotics today is already changing the face of the modern battlefield. Cargo and fire support versions of Rheinmetall’s unmanned Mission Master SP (“Silent Partner”) are already being evaluated under the British Army’s Robotic Platoon Vehicle programme.

As recently as June 2021, Rheinmetall unveiled a new member of its growing family of unmanned vehicles: the Mission Master XT. Designed to carry heavy payloads in extreme terrain, this AUGV will be on display for the first time in the United Kingdom.

High-mobility ground-based air defence systems are gaining fresh importance now that NATO armed forces are pivoting back to a national and alliance defence role. Rheinmetall’s Skyranger systems, armed with 35mm or 30mm automatic cannon and other effectors, can be mounted on tracked or wheeled armoured vehicles such as the Boxer or Lynx.

As a high-tech specialist for security and mobility, Rheinmetall actively supports the ongoing process of digitizing the armed forces. Rheinmetall sets an especially high standard, drawing on its extensive experience in sensors, effectors, networking, C4I and soldier systems.

Rheinmetall’s comprehensive expertise in force protection technology ranges from individual passive ballistic solutions, like hard ballistic inserts for bullet-resistant vests, to state-of-the art standoff active protection systems. At DSEI 2021, Rheinmetall is presenting the StrikeShield, an integrated module for vehicles that combines active and passive force protection technologies.

The Group is also one of the world’s foremost producers of training and simulation solutions, contributing materially to the high operational readiness and effectiveness of modern armed forces and security services. At DSEI 2021 Rheinmetall will be highlighting its “Osiris” constructive simulation for staff exercises and operational research as well as the Legatus live training system.

During DSEI 2021, Rheinmetall will be exhibiting its wide-ranging expertise in almost all capability categories. These include weapon and ammunition systems that enable scalable, threat-commensurate engagement of targets, plus innovative, network-capable sensor systems for applications on land, at sea and in the air. We look forward to welcoming you to stand H5-110 at DSEI 2021!

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WiGL Inc. and Cubic Cement Far-Field Wireless Network Collaboration

September 7th, 2021

HAMPTON, VIRGINIA, USA, September 7, 2021 — WiGL, Inc., a smart, touchless, wireless power company, today announced it is partnering with Cubic Defense Applications, Inc., under the Cubic Mission and Performance Solutions (CMPS) Business Unit of Cubic Corporation, a worldwide technology company in transportation and military technology, on a next-generation, ad-hoc IoT mesh network. The new network will be enabled by Energous’ WattUp active energy harvesting transmitter and receiver technology. Cubic, under contract from WiGL Inc. and acting as lead integrator, will bring together mature technology from Energous with mesh-networking enabling a seamless, unbounded, and convenient power capability that works like the data networks we have grown to rely on for daily life. “Utilizing award winning Commercial Off the Shelf solutions is a smart move because of the synergy between existing products and WiGL’s networking solutions”, said Cherif Chibane, WiGL CTO.

Since 2018, the Wireless Electrical Grid LAN company, WiGL Inc., has developed techniques for networking far-field wireless power charging and recharging. In its efforts to develop a mass market capability that makes wireless power transfer as easy to use as wireless data, WiGL creates islands of wireless power supporting unbounded networks of wireless power – thus tipping the balance of convenience for universal applications. WiGL’s patented technologies allow anyone to pick a wireless power network the same way they pick a Wi-Fi provider. WiGL “cuts the cords” and wirelessly powers devices on the move, in the home, in the office, and more.

With this collaboration, the LAN part of WIGL takes a giant leap forward. Robert Rickard, COO of WiGL Inc. commented, “Once people can actually experience a wireless far-field powered network and control the actions of it with their phone, the value proposition for this solution will be clear. Our singular mission is to make WiGL synonymous with convenient wireless power anywhere…”

Bringing these technologies together is Cubic, a technology-driven, market-leading provider of integrated solutions that increase situational understanding for transportation, Defense, C4ISR, and Training to decrease urban congestion and improve military effectiveness and operational readiness. A world leader in public transportation as well as military technologies, Cubic was the natural choice for WiGL to lead this integration effort. Dr. Ahmad Glover, CEO of WiGL commented, “Cubic was the very first company to endorse our solutions and helped us tremendously in our initial efforts – we wouldn’t be here as fast as we are without them. Their market potential in both the private industry and defense industries worldwide positions them as a key early market vendor for networked wireless power.” Michael Knowles, Senior Vice President of Cubic Corporation and President of Cubic Mission and Performance Solutions also commented, “Cubic has a long history of innovation and bringing leading capabilities to market. We are excited about the opportunity to team up with WiGL to address new power solutions that advantage our products and customers.”

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SureFire Launches Micro Scout Light Pro

September 7th, 2021

Fountain Valley, CA—SureFire, LLC, manufacturer of the world’s finest—and most innovative—illumination tools and tactical products, is introducing the Micro Scout Light® Pro.

The Micro Scout Light Pro is SureFire’s lightest, most compact Scout series WeaponLight to date, ideal for those who primarily operate with NVGs but also need an extremely low profile and lightweight white light for navigation, SSE or CQB. It’s an excellent solution for PDWs with extremely limited real estate, where profile and concealability are most important. The Micro Scout Light Pro offers maximum capability and exceptional versatility with minimal size.

Measuring less than 4 inches in length and weighing a mere 2.1 ounces, the Micro Scout Light Pro takes size efficiency to a new level. You won’t even know it’s there, but it provides high-quality illumination for positive target ID, navigation, or Sensitive Site Exploitation. It can also illuminate targets up to 65 meters (70 yards) away. A recoil-proof, premium LED generates an impressive 300 lumens from a single rechargeable AAA battery that delivers 1.25 hours of constant runtime, and SureFire’s smooth parabolic reflector technology shapes the output to create a far-reaching, high-intensity beam. It also generates ample surround light so you can see what’s on either side of you as well as what’s in front of you.

Learn more: www.surefire.com/products/illumination/weapon-lights/m140a-micro-scout-light-pro

Posted in Admin | 9 Comments »

IWI Announces Additional Procurement of the Micro-TAVOR (X95) Assault Rifle by the Israel Defense Forces

September 7th, 2021

The decision, in accordance with the IDF spokesperson, was made as part of the IDF’s annual work plan

Israel, 07 September, 2021. IWI – Israel Weapon Industries – a member of the SK GROUP (founded by Mr. Samy Katsav), and a worldwide leader in the production of combat-proven small arms for governments, armies, and law enforcement agencies around the world is proud by the additional procurement of the Micro-TAVOR assault rifle by the IDF, to be in service by infantry units.

The decision was made as part of the IDF’s complete annual plan, taking under consideration significant parameters such as adaption to the forces’ missions in the modern battlefield, compliance between acting duty forces and reserve and more.

Designed for militaries, law Enforcement agencies, and special forces, the Micro-TAVOR (X95) was developed in close cooperation with elite units of the IDF, and was tailored to their specific requirements. Incorporating advanced technology enabling the conversion between calibers within minutes, special ops can use the same weapon platform for a wide array of scenarios, for mission success.

With an outstanding effective range of more than 500 meters, the Micro-TAVOR was created to deal with modern terror threats, as well as urban and open area combat – all in one mission. Exceptionally reliable in even the harshest weather conditions, the Micro-TAVOR complies with the most stringent NATO standards for small arms, including environmental standards. Combat-proven by many police and armed forces around the world, it is the standard Israel Defense Forces (IDF) rifle.

According to Ronen Hamudot, Exe. VP Marketing and sales: ” The TAVOR family has been in use by various units of the IDF for the past 15 years. This announcement by the IDF for further procurement is yet another evidence for the TAVOR’s high performance and reliability in the field”.

The Micro-TAVOR is a designed by users’ platform. IWI’s engineers are still serving as reserve in the IDF, hence like all IWI’s products, the Micro-TAVOR was designed and developed according to their own experience in the field. We are very proud of this ongoing long-term cooperation with the IDF, and the Micro-TAVOR being once again the weapon of choice.

Hamudot adds, “IWI works closely with its worldwide customer base, providing solutions that are designed to meet their specific needs.” He goes on to say, “The Micro-TAVOR is one of the most popular weapons of its category in the world – a success based on its exceptional effectiveness and reliability. We continue to develop a range of new configurations and applications in order to ensure its effectiveness in the widest possible range of situations and field requirements.”

For the IDF’s formal statement go here.

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HRF Concepts – Rifle Combat Magwell for SIG MCX

September 7th, 2021

HRF Concepts is set to release a version of their clamp-style flared Rifle Combat Magwell for the SIG MCX as well as Covert Asymmetric Basepads which couple 20 round M3 PMAGs magazines and adds five rounds of capacity to the secondary magazine.

hrfconcepts.com

Posted in Weapon Accessories | 5 Comments »

Expodefensa 2021 – Less Than Three Months Left Before the Event of Reference for the Entire Latin American Continent

September 7th, 2021

The 7th edition of Expodefensa is coming soon. It’s an unmissable event in the agenda of the international Security and Defense community, gathering exhibitors from five continents and high-level visitors. This year Expodefensa will take place in physical format from 29th of November to 1st of December 2021 in a perfectly bio-safe environment.

The threats facing the states of South America, beyond the defense issues themselves, namely drug trafficking, criminal organizations, migratory flows, cyber-attacks, natural and industrial disasters, the protection of centers exploitation of energy resources but also the new challenges raised by the Covid-19 pandemic, are present in development all over the world. In this way, the appropriate solutions of services and equipment offered at the event are of crucial interest both to the states of South America and to other countries in the world.

Expodefensa exhibition presents to professional visitors and Official delegations from all continents and particularly from Latin America and the Caribbean, new equipment and the latest technological innovations offered by international and Colombian companies to face all these issues.

Today, three months before the exhibition opening, organizers have already registered companies from 17 countries and 4 continents. Some of them like Brazil, France, Israel, Spain, Turkey, or the USA will present their offer in national pavilions.

Among first registered exhibitors Expodefensa is glad to welcome Airbus SAS – Aselsan – CIAC – Cotecmar – Damen Shipyards – Elbit Systems LTD – General Dynamics Land Systems – Hensoldt – Indumil – Lacroix – MBDA – Navantia – Otokar – Rafael Advanced Defense Systems LTD – SAAB – Sikorsky / Lockheed Martin – Theon Sensors, …

The 7th edition of Expodefensa will take place in the maximum safety and strictly respecting Colombian government sanitary rules. CORFERIAS, the event’s venue is bio-safe. It’s certified by Bureau Veritas with the international SAFEGUARD label, and with the biosafety certification CHECK-IN certificate issued by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Tourism of Colombia.

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US Army Eyes Commonality with Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Refresh Effort

September 7th, 2021

DETROIT ARSENAL, Mich. — With a nod from the Army Futures Command, the Program Executive Office for Combat Support & Combat Service Support will explore the potential use of modified commercial off-the-shelf solutions for a new, common Tactical Wheeled Vehicle, or TWV Fleet.

The Army Requirements Oversight Council on July 30 approved the Common Tactical Truck (CTT) Abbreviated Capabilities Development Document, or A-CDD, which allows the PEO to begin a rapid prototyping effort to provide Army Transporters modernized capabilities while incorporating as much commonality with the commercial trucking industry as possible.

Alvin Bing, the Army’s product manager, Heavy Tactical Vehicles, PEO CS&CSS, explained that dovetailing the CTT program’s desired capabilities with commercial trucking industry research and development projects is a winning proposition.

“Aligning CTT with industry R&D efforts enables rapid and continuous integration of future technologies that can significantly reduce obsolescence issues,” Bing said. “With CTT, the Army wants as much industry involvement as possible so we can increase competition while at the same time, leveraging momentum gained through industry’s rapidly advancing fields of driver safety systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, machine learning, autonomy, improved fuel economy and vehicle electrification, off-road mobility, and predictive maintenance. This will allow the Army to modernize at the pace of industry by integrating new technologies with minimal cost.”

Within the Army’s TWV Fleet, the CTT falls between the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles and the Heavy Equipment Transporter. CTT seeks to bolster TWV mission roles currently performed by vehicles in the Army’s heavy fleet.

“As the Army’s CTT acquisition lead, our intent is to procure a HTV Family of Vehicles to replace the M915/M1088 Tractors, Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck, and Palletized Load System with a commercial-based CTT designed with a modular truck platform,” Bing continued. “This will mitigate future obsolescence, leverage best commercial practices, lower procurement costs through commercial economies of scale, and take advantage of interchangeable repair parts across the fleet — resulting in streamlined supply chains and reduced total lifecycle costs.”

According to Don Overton of the Army Futures Command Sustainment Capabilities Integration Directorate’s Requirements Division, ultimately, this effort will inform a future CTT Capability Development Document, which will outline the final, approved operational requirements for a common system that will deliver capability meeting overall operational performance criteria.

“In terms of capability gaps in this portion of the TWV fleet in support of Multi-Domain Operations, we’ve reached design maturity, and without a holistic overhaul, we can’t overcome design limitations and will simultaneously drive operations and sustainment costs to untenable levels. Commercial technologies and economies of scale exist that will help the Army close those gaps and address the increasing age of the current HTV fleet. Now is the right time to modernize with a Common Tactical Truck in support of MDO,” he emphasized.

CTT’s desired characteristics include:
Drive by wire and active safety
Mission roles
Commonality with industry
Digitization (autonomy, prognostics)
Demand reduction
Force protection
Survivability
Sustainment

Industry representatives who are interested in possibly participating in CTT should be on the lookout for announcements and requests for information on SAM.gov in the coming months, Bing said. His acquisition team anticipates holding industry one-on-one meetings tentatively slated for mid-to-late Fiscal Year 2022.

Bing’s team plans to award Other Transaction Authority-based contracts in Fiscal Year 2023 to three vendors to produce multiple prototypes each. OTAs are designed to help the government speed capability to the field vs. traditional contracting methods.

Soldier Touch Points will be leveraged throughout the competitive prototyping phase. These assessments are important ways to incorporate valuable Warfighter feedback into the acquisition program, thereby providing Army Transporters the optimal CTT solution. Currently, the notional plan is for prototype runoff testing to beginning in late Fiscal Year 2023, followed by a down select to a Federal Acquisition Regulation-based production contract in Fiscal Year 2025.

CTT fielding is projected to begin in Fiscal Year 2028.

By Rae Higgins, Program Executive Office, Combat Support & Combat Service Support

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Mobility | 5 Comments »