SureFire

Transforming DOD: PC-C4 Prepares for the Future Battlefield

March 28th, 2024

FORT IRWIN, Calif. — On the beaches, oceans, air and deserts of the U.S. West Coast, more than 4,000 members of the joint force, civilians, contractors, and militaries from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, France and Japan experimented with more than 200 technologies in the Army’s largest experiment in the dirt, Project Convergence Capstone 4.

Two phases, primarily conducted in California at Camp Pendleton and the National Training Center, allowed experimenters to work in arduous conditions and experiment with cutting-edge technology in as close to a real-world environment as possible. Distant locations also supported the experiment up and down the West Coast and the Pacific region to experiment through time, distance and complexity.

Technology getting to PC-C4 itself takes time and goes through a review process designed to save PC-C4 time and money by ensuring only the most promising technologies make their way to the capstone experiment. All technology at PC-C4 could fill a potential gap or provide a capability designated as necessary by senior leaders. Nascent technologies go through the Science Technology and Review Board before spending time at a myriad of other experiments and lab-based risk reduction activities, all before they ever make their way to NTC or Camp Pendleton.

“There are plenty of technologies we find out aren’t mature enough or don’t fill a gap or capability the way we thought, so they get withdrawn way before Capstone 4 takes place,” said Mindy Gabbert, experiment division chief at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command.

Not only does this scrutiny save money and time once the experiment begins at PC-C4, but it also ensures that all players involved in putting on PC-C4 already have working relationships.

“It’s not just a yes or no process. It’s going through those prior risk reduction activities that allows the broader community to see those technologies and just to be familiar with them before they get here so that they can properly fit them into the exercise, so that they can make sure that we are aligning them with the right use cases and the other right opportunities out here,” Gabbert said. “So, in addition to the technical aspects of those technologies, it’s just building that knowledge base within the community of what’s out there and bridges that community by building the whole body of knowledge we’re all working on.”

Since 2020, Project Convergence (PC) has grown exponentially in scale and scope. PC-C4 was the largest PC experiment yet, with participation from the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and multinational partners.

“The first PC was conducted in 2020. It was Army only and focused on a specific time between the identification of a target and an effector shooting on that target,” said Lt. Gen. Ross Coffman, United States Army Futures Command deputy commanding general. “And from there, we decided the Army will never fight alone, so let’s get the entire joint force focused on this problem set.”

“This year, we have increased the threat envelope to 10 times what we did last year. With the entire joint force and our U.K. and Australian teammates and allies, we were able to effectively move data for the first time in an Indo-Pacific scenario at a magnitude we’ve never seen before,” Coffman said.

PC-C4 informed combined, joint all-domain situational awareness, command and control, integrated offensive and defensive fires, defeat large target array, human machine integration and how to sustain the force over large-scale combat operations, dubbed contested logistics.

One of the significant successes of PC-C4 was the integration of sensors and fires to ensure that the force is best able to stop incoming missiles without depleting munitions unnecessarily. Coffman explained that they used offensive and defensive fires to tackle the problem and ensure that sensors have interoperability between the branches to ensure the right sensors pick up the threat and the right shooter takes it out, so the military does not waste munitions.

“It’s not our job to go fill up the magazines to the level we’d like them to be, but it is our job to ensure that we can connect my sensors to his fires and his sensors to my fires because I might have the most available weapon where he’s got the most survivable sensor and vice versa,” said Vice Adm. Michael Boyle, Third Fleet commander. “And that’s really what this is about; it’s enabling us to pick from whatever magazine we need.”

Another major win for PC-C4 was the increased ability to push data through a fully networked command, control and communications system. This allowed for more significant amounts of data to be pushed to the Joint and Allied forces.

“When you put stress on untested equipment, you’re going to learn things,” Coffman said. “One of the interesting things is that as we increase the pipe on this cross, it worked magnificently. It could pass a large amount of data that we had not seen before we tested it last year, and we could see it was nascent. We were able to pass data successfully.”

Great strides in contested logistics experiments also took place across both phases. Experiments involving beach landings, drones and printing technology were showcased, and for the first time, a repair part for an Army system was printed out at sea on a Navy vessel.

“Envision the printer was on the vessel,” said Col. Shane Upton, director of the Contested Logistics Cross-Functional Team. “They printed the part, we put it on an unmarried unmanned aerial system, a drone, and flew it onto the beach to the point of need. In a contested environment where you don’t have a permissive flow of sustainment, you’ve got to use some of these exquisite technologies. That’s why we’re experimenting with them.”

Now that PC-C4 has wrapped up after several weeks of experimentation, the data collected will be analyzed to inform future acquisition and force structure decisions and aggressively advance and integrate Army contributions to the Joint and Combined fight.

“It’s worth every penny,” Coffman said of the experiment. “The readiness of the joint force and the partnership with our allies is invaluable. When called upon, the women and men of this nation and the women and men of other nations will fight side by side to preserve liberty, and that cost is worth every penny.”

By Matthew Murch, Futures and Concepts Center

FALCO Holsters Versatile Rotating Shoulder Holsters Perfect for EDC

March 27th, 2024

Ft. Lauderdale, FL – March 25, 2024 – FALCO® Holsters, a global leader in crafting bespoke leather holsters, reveals its latest innovation in shoulder holsters designed to enhance concealed carry experiences. The new collection features the handcrafted leather D131 and D231 Roto Shoulder Holsters and the D901 Hybrid Roto Shoulder Holster, offering versatility and efficiency for everyday carry needs.

Katarína Zacharová, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at FALCO Holsters, explains, “The light-bearing full leather version of our highly successful Roto Shoulder system has been eagerly anticipated and reflects our dedication to prioritizing customer feedback.” She emphasizes the unique features of these shoulder holsters, stating, “Our shoulder holster line stands out for its interchangeability, allowing all configurations to integrate into a single harness system seamlessly.”

Zacharová states, “This adaptability offers unmatched convenience, accommodating diverse carry preferences and many firearm combinations. Whether you’re switching between firearm models or adjusting for different scenarios, our holsters provide an effortless transition. For instance, switching from carrying your .45 caliber 2011 with a weapon-mounted light in full leather today to a .380 semi-auto in the hybrid leather/Kydex holster version tomorrow is as easy as detaching the customized holster from the adjustable leather harness and replacing it with the holster tailored to a different firearm.”

FALCO’s Roto Shoulder Holsters boast a rotating function, enabling a vertical carry position for a sleek profile and ergonomic draw even with full-sized handguns. Zacharová explains, “When you’re ready to draw, simply unsnap the security strap, and the holster rotates to an angle that promotes a more comfortable grip and rapid draw. The holster incorporates a leather security strap designed to be released by the forefinger and adjustable leather belt tie-down straps to keep your firearm in place. Strategically placed spaces in the leather harness allow extensive size adjustment to fit the harness to your body type. Combined with the leather harness, everyday carriers enjoy balanced weight distribution of the handgun and magazines for all-day comfort.”

D131 and D231 Light-Bearing Roto Shoulder Holsters

• Premium and Classic light-bearing leather shoulder holsters
• Steel-reinforced forefinger security strap for secure firearm retention
• Innovative rotating design for ergonomic draw
• Open-bottom design for threaded barrels
• Slit for belt strap on the back side provides stability
• Custom-fit for 3,000+ handguns and more than 50 models of tactical lights and lasers
• Made of the finest Italian full-grain and pre-tanned leather
• Available with multiple harness and counterbalance options
• Lifetime Limited Warranty
• 30-Day Buyback Guarantee
• MSRP: D131, Premium Leather $119.95
• MSRP: D231, Classic Leather (pre-tanned) $95.95

The D901 Hybrid Roto Shoulder Holster combines premium Italian full-grain leather with .08” U.S. Kydex for optimal comfort and retention. “By incorporating a Kydex shell into our design and surrounding it with leather, people benefit from the comfort and aesthetics of leather plus the retention and stability of Kydex,” said Zacharová.

D901 Hybrid Roto Shoulder Holster with Double Mag Pouch

• The rotating function allows for a more efficient and comfortable gun draw
• Holster combines 0.08” U.S. Kydex custom fit to your firearm, surrounded by premium FALCO Italian full-grain leather
• Features leather forefinger security strap
• Tension screw allows you to adjust the retention of the holster
• Vertical underarm carry position allows for safe EDC concealment
• Adjustable shoulder harness is tapered for weight distribution and comfort
• Attaches to the belt with adjustable leather tie-down straps for added stability
• Can be configured for handguns with red dot sights
• Ideal for large-framed firearms
• Open muzzle allows for extended threaded barrels and prevents the accumulation of dust and dirt
• Fully-covered barrel and trigger guard for safe handling
• Kydex shell offers excellent retention in all carry situations
• Premium leather is hand-cut, lacquered, and finished by leather artisans
• Edge is hand-finished and colored to protect it from wear and add to the longevity
• Includes: adjustable leather harness, hybrid Kydex/leather holster and double magazine pouch, leather tie-down straps
• Right-handed or left-handed
• Lifetime Limited Warranty
• 30-Day Buyback Guarantee
• MSRP: $299.95

Hydra Weaponry Introduces the Hydra 10

March 27th, 2024

Based on customer requests, Hydra Weaponry introduces the Hydra 10; a powerful and highly accurate .308 rifle with caliber conversion barrels available soon.

Hermon, Maine (March 2024) – Hydra Weaponry, Maine’s largest firearms employer, designers, and manufacturers of the truly modular MARCK-15 Hydra® Weapon System, unveil the Hydra 10, a .308 with the hard-hitting performance expected of this leading American AR-rifle manufacturer.

Based on customer demands, the Hydra 10 is built upon years of research, development, and real-world testing. It combines advanced engineering with user-centric features to deliver a rifle platform that excels in any scenario. From long-range precision shooting to tactical applications, the Hydra 10 offers unmatched adaptability and performance.

Key features of the Hydra 10 include:

• Modular Design: The Hydra 10 features a modular architecture that allows for easy customization and adaptation to suit individual preferences and mission requirements. The Hydra 10 is the base model for future caliber configurations. All that will be required to change calibers will be a barrel and bolt exchange. Stay tuned for new calibers in the near future.

• .308 Caliber Precision: Engineered to deliver exceptional accuracy and ballistic performance, the Hydra 10 is chambered in the renowned .308 Winchester caliber. Whether hunting larger game or used as a tactical weapon for professional use, users can rely on the Hydra 10 to deliver decisive results with every shot.

• Robust Construction: Crafted from premium materials and subjected to rigorous quality control standards, the Hydra 10 is built to withstand the harshest conditions and the most demanding missions. The Hydra 10 is built on a BLK Systems stock and pistol grip, with a Quick-Change Barrel Upper Receiver (QCB-D), and runs on a standard SR-25 magazine with a DPMS pattern.

• Advanced Features: Equipped with advanced features such as a crisp trigger, ergonomic controls, and a smooth cycling action, the Hydra 10 ensures optimal performance and shooter comfort. Additionally, compatibility with a wide range of accessories and optics further enhances the Hydra 10’s versatility and effectiveness in the field.

“We are proud to introduce the Hydra 10, a rifle platform that embodies our commitment to innovation, quality, and performance,” said Mack Gwinn III, CEO at Hydra Weaponry. “The Hydra 10 represents a new standard of excellence in the world of .308 caliber rifles.”

The Hydra 10 is available in 16” and 18” length barrels, and in black or coyote tan, with an MSRP of $2,349.00.

For more information on Hydra Weaponry, visit the new website at www.hydraweaponry.com.

USSOCOM Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) – Digital Projection Close Quarters Sight (DP-CQS)

March 27th, 2024

This upcoming USSOCOM Small Business Innovation Research topic is pretty exciting.

The objective of Digital Projection Close Quarters Sight (DP-CQS) is to develop applied research toward an innovative solution that will provide a compact, close-quarters sight that has multiple user-selectable and user-configurable ballistic reticles, while eliminating mechanical adjustors to improve system stability under thermal and mechanical shock by utilizing a digital screen projected onto a transparent surface for the user to look/aim through.

On 01 April, SOFWERX will host a virtual Q&A session for the DP-CQS area of interest. Soon after, on 10 April 2024 12:00 PM ET (Noon), submissions will open.

As a part of this feasibility study, the proposers shall address all viable overall system design options with respective specifications to innovatively design a 1x (non-magnified) direct view optic that projects a digital screen/reticle onto a transparent surface for the operator to look/aim through. The DP-CQS shall allow the user to configure and store at least 3 different digital reticle configurations with different types of ballistic features and shall include the ability for the center dot/aim point to be brighter than other displayed features. The DP-CQS shall have no mechanical boresight adjustors and shall be designed as a sealed optical system with low Size Weight and Power (SWaP) with a 72-hour continuous battery run time, utilizing no more than 1x CR123 or L91 battery. The DP- CQS shall communicate with external devices to receive range/ballistic data, and user configured/updated reticles. The feasibility study should consider technologies to eliminate scattering of light to provide a sharp edge to all reticle features, while also minimizing unwanted color shift of the direct-view scene. The DP-CQS shall mount to a MIL-STD 1913 Rail.

Visit events.sofwerx.org/sbir24-4r5 to sign up and answer any questions.

Rotapoint Systems – Griptrap

March 27th, 2024

It was great to see Rotapoint Systems in the vendor tent at last week’s USASOC Sniper Competition. In addition to their Watch Caps which piggyback MRDS on to variable power optics, they showed me their new Griptrap which is an ergonomically enhanced MLOK hand stop.

As you can see from this composite image, the Griptrap is designed to support your natural grip rather than forcing you to contort your hand on the handguard.

Another thing I like about this simple design is that it can’t be used to either keep you from dangling your appendages too close to the barrel or, as I prefer, to allow me to pull the rifle back in to my shoulder. What’s more, it’s as effective under the barrel as at the 3 or 9 o’clock position.

Finally, there are three variants, based on user preference.

Sneak Peek – The Swedish Nipple from EDS

March 27th, 2024

I was surprised that no one asked yesterday about the pouch mounted to the lower left of the upcoming ESD Kestrel Chest Rig.

The guys at Edgar Sherman Design were recently working with some representatives from our newest NATO partner Sweden when they noticed a button closure on some of their gear. Unfortunately, this closure is quite dated and no longer in production but it does a great job of keeping flaps closed. Additionally, it’s not affected by snow and ice and can be manipulated while wearing handwear.

Consequently, ESD went to work creating their take on the button, naming it the “Swedish Nipple.” It is made from polymer and is slightly texturized for a positive grip, even when wet. You’ll soon find it on pouches where you want positive retention, like this pistol mag pouch.

www.edgarshermandesign.com

HSP Presents: Battle of Najaf 20TH Anniversary Event & Limited Edition Print

March 27th, 2024

In honor of the 20th anniversary of the battle of Najaf, Haley Strategic Partners is holding an open house from 9AM to 9PM. Additionally, beginning on Thursday, April 4th and ending Sunday April 7th, 2024, they will be celebrating by offering 20% Off Site Wide as well as at their Headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona.

April 4th, 2024 will mark the 20th Anniversary of the Battle of Al-Najaf, Iraq. It was on that day in 2004 that a small team of coalition forces and Blackwater Contractors faced off against the overwhelming force of the Mahdi Army. In spite of the many obstacles stacked against them, acts of courage, duty, and perseverance enabled the defending coalition and Blackwater Contractors to hold off the Mahdi Army while Blackwater Air Teams provided critical sustainment equipment and life saving evacuation efforts. The Battle of Al-Najaf represents one of the largest insurgent attacks during the Iraq War, we stand together on 4/4 in remembrance of the brave men who selflessly risked everything to save their brothers.

HSP has something else up their sleeve as well. Black Powder Red Earth‘s Creative Director, Jon Chang, and Artist, Josh Taylor, created an original piece of art to remember and honor those who answered the call for help without hesitation on that day.

This one of a kind piece of art which will be offered in three sizes/mediums: 13”x13”, 30”x30”, and a custom 60”x60” Dibond® Aluminum print.

Full details here.

Netherlands’ RIOT Police Unit Equipped with Flame Retardant Uniforms from UF PRO

March 27th, 2024

KOMENDA, SLOVENIA (22.03.2024)

UF PRO, a leading name in the tactical clothing industry, unveiled its latest flame retardant uniform designed for the Netherlands’ crowd and riot control operations during a public debut at the event held in Ossendrecht, Netherlands.

Over 3,500 Sets Deployed for Enhanced Operations

In collaboration with Gear Point, UF PRO’s distributor in the Netherlands, the National Police Services Agency (Politiedienstencentrum) has equipped their RIOT Police Unit (Mobiele Eenheid) with these advanced uniforms. The initial deployment plan includes 3,500 uniform sets for deployment in 2024.

Innovative Flame Retardant Uniforms

The newly introduced uniform system features several flame retardant (FR) components, including the Striker X FR Combat Pants, Striker X FR Combat Shirt, Delta Eagle Gen.3. FR Jacket, and Monsoon XT Gen.2 FR Rain Jacket.

Darko Radoš Roth, Sales Manager at UF PRO, expressed enthusiasm about the innovative design, stating:

“UF PRO is setting new standards in the development of crowd and riot control uniform systems with its innovative dual-use design. This design allows for a seamless transition between everyday police work and crowd and riot control without the need for changing clothes.”

Crafted for exceptional flame retardancy and breathability, the uniform systems are tailored to meet the distinct needs of crowd and riot control police units. They offer robust protection against flames and intense heat, prioritising comfort, functionality, and ease of movement.

Collaboration with Industry Leaders

UF PRO collaborates with industry leaders W.L. Gore & Associates (Gore) and Schoeller Textil AG to ensure the highest quality and innovative flame retardant technology in their garment systems.

The Delta Eagle Jacket and Rain Jacket feature Gore’s innovative flame retardant PYRAD® technology, which effectively reduces heat flow through the fabric and prevents the spread of flames. Additionally, the Rain Jacket offers 100% waterproof capabilities, thanks to the GORE-TEX 3-layer waterproof and breathable laminate.

Schoeller’s pioneering pyroshell technology, found in UF PRO’s Combat Shirts and Pants, revolutionises fire safety. By transforming conventional materials into non-burning layers upon heat exposure, it provides active protection and enhances comfort. Through bonding and mixing processes, Schoeller ensures optimal flame retardancy, shielding wearers from direct flame exposure.

Rigorous Testing

All UF PRO’s FR garment systems undergo rigorous testing, including the Thermo Man test, conducted by the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA). This ensures comprehensive evaluation and real-life protection against intense heat and flames. If you’re interested in learning more about the testing process for flame retardant clothing, you can find additional information here.

UF PRO’s collaboration with the Netherlands’ National Police Services Agency (Politiedienstencentrum) signifies a significant advancement in crowd and riot control uniform systems, promoting safer and more comfortable policing.