“On accessible terrain he who occupies the High Ground and ensures lines of supplies will fight to advantage” -Master Sun Tzu

High Ground Defense is a relatively new name to the defense and small arms industry, but not the people involved. The HGD engineers have many decades of experience with small arms, and in specific, successful M134 series designs and manufacturing. They have spent the last several years preparing a pallet of solutions in small arms.

Aside from the M134HGD Gatling Gun system, HGD offers some very innovative, lightweight, belt-fed machine guns that include  evolved variants of the M249/Minimi in 5.56x45mm, 7.62x51mm, and 6.5 Creedmoor. Their company offers other services:

• Weapon System Design
• Land/Sea/Air Mounting Solutions
• Electrical/Avionics System Design/Integration
• Rapid Prototyping

The M134 “Minigun” series of Gatling guns are electrically driven, mechanically operated automatic machine guns. The distinction in description is important. If there is a belt of ammunition and the barrel cluster is rotated, the ammunition will cycle through the mechanism and fire when presented to full lock up to the barrel. This can be a very dangerous situation around persons unfamiliar with this cycle of operation.

The M134 was a downsizing of the M61 20mm Vulcan six-barreled automatic cannon that was made in 7.62x51mm for use on rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft during the Vietnam War. General Electric (Yes, the “GE Brings Good Things to Life” General Electric) was the design and build contractor. GE in Vermont designed and built many weapon systems in that time period in its skunk works in Burlington. See our interview with Bob Chiabrandy, designer of the M134 among others, “The Man Who Designed the World’s Fastest Gun” on smallarmsreview.com. The interview was done by George Kontis, small arms engineer extraordinaire, who worked with Bob at GE before George became FNMI’s chief engineer.

The M134 has gone through a number of upgrades by different manufactures, each trying to deal with some of the idiosyncrasies of the system. HGD’s engineering staff have many decades of experience in this area, and prospective end users should discuss the new delinker-feeder systems, variable rate of fire FCU, lightweight battery packages, caliber changes, and many other seriously functional upgrades.

High Ground Defense’s delinker-feeder loading system (above) is unique and truly easy to use. Sliding the ammunition belt into the delinker-feeder is generally a three-handed job even with some of the newer open-door types. The HGD system allows the belt to quickly be held in position to start feeding, with one hand locking in place, then the doors can be closed. Clearing a link jam is also much easier with the amount of access provided.

HGD’s feed cover (above) replaces the old assembly and safeing sector. The safeing sector’s job is to complete the elliptical path the bolts are traveling in, and when opened, interrupt that path, and keep the bolts from going into battery with a live round. Remember, this is a mechanically operated gun. If the bolt goes into battery on a live round, it will fire. Period. This is where many accidents and several deaths have occurred. The safeing sector must be opened before working on the gun, and it takes several minutes to do. With the HGD cover, the path is interrupted with one hand motion. Once the levers have been activated, no bolt can go into battery.

One of the newest designs that High Ground Defense is presenting is the ADVANTAGE 7.62x51mm Gatling Gun (above). It is a three barreled design, and very lightweight. The basic M134 gun weighs 85 pounds (39kg) and there have been some lighter models, however, there were issues. HGD’s ADVANTAGE is nearly half the weight, it weighs 46.45 pounds (21kg). A key feature is the mechanical barrel cluster rotational lock for absolute safety when the system is in the SAFE condition. It has similar barrel spacing, bolt assemblies, and bolt cam path as on existing M134 platforms, but uses an alternative ammunition feeding, delinking, and transfer mechanism. The drive system uses a brushless DC servo motor with closed-loop positional feedback for precise control of all rotating components. The gun has a longitudinal bolt searing safety mechanism, self-contained hardware barrel clamp with a threaded adapter for various muzzle devices. It has integrated suspension lug mounting provisions, as well as multiple feed inlet locations for optimal feed chute orientation. It’s 41.2 inches long (1046mm) and 8.5 x 7.7 inches in diameter (215mm x 195mm). 

High Ground Defense’s machine shop (above) features the DN Solutions (Doosan) DVF 4000 vertical 5-axis machining center (CNC). It has a 40-tool automatic tool changer which expands to 120 tools, allowing HGD to work with complex prototype designs and production. The DVF 4000 was chosen for its versatility. With linear scales on X, Y, and Z axis and rotary scales on the B and C axis, they can program extremely accurate positioning and repeatability. Manufacturing Engineer Jay Goodrich is intimately familiar with DN (Doosan) systems, having been involved in specifying, selling, and installing CNC machines in the past. The Lynx 2100LSY­ horizontal lathe is another DN Solutions offering. A highly accurate CNC turning machine, it has wider support structures for the X and Z axis, as well as the tailstock traverse. It’s very stable, allowing for very accurate prototyping and production of parts. Like many modern manufacturers, HGD is heavy on engineering and quality prototyping with these capabilities, while sub-contracting some parts and operations to trusted vendors.

The HGD 249 is standard size, (above) and the HGD 249CQB (not shown, but we were enamored of it) has an ultra compact receiver. Born from the M249 Para-style machine guns, the CQB system in 5.56x45mm has an overall length of 32 inches (813mm), a barrel length of 9.75 inches (248mm), and a weight of under 14 pounds (less than 6.35kg). The shortened steel receiver has an ArmorLube finish and a hard chrome-lined quick-change barrel. There is an optional folding stock. The rate of fire is around 800rpm. With the short barrel, the effective range is claimed as 800m. The 249 variants can be ordered without the magazine well capability. 

The HGD 7.62mm SAW is a belt-fed 7.62x51mm NATO light machine gun. There is no magazine feed, just the M13 disintegrating links. HGD also offers this in 6.5 Creedmoor as well as with suppressors. The steel receiver has an ArmorLube finish and the quick-change barrel is hard chrome-lined. It uses a mono-block gas system.

Since U.S. Ordnance received the NSN and contract, there are now over 186 parts inspections that must be accomplished. Each one must meet the military standards for production. There is also a protocol testing called for in MIL-G-70790 (AR), the Military Specification for Gun, Machine, 40mm MK19 Mod 3, which must be strictly adhered to and passed with government inspectors viewing the proceedings. In this article, we’ll review relevant first parts of the testing we observed. 

Section 3.7 Marking: Each machine gun and each part for which marking is prescribed shall be clearly marked in accordance with MIL-STD-130. Each receiver shall be identified with a serial number which shall be assigned by the procuring activity. The markings in this photo are the correct ones according to the MIL-STD. The barrel markings are as well, but parts like the barrel also receive a “PM” mark for “Proof” and “Magnetic Particle Tested” (See the M249 article in this issue for Magnaflux procedures).

Finished MK19 barrels waiting for assembly. As part of the MIL-STD, the grooves must be checked for height all through samples of the production barrels. Here, an extremely thin shim is cut cross-sectionally of the middle of the barrel, and the consistency and depth of grooves related to lands are checked, as well as finish depth. The cutaway barrel is for reference on the chamber and how the projectile is entering the grooves in the bore. Obviously, these are destructive tests and done on random barrels during the specification match testing.

In Section 4.5.8 Trunnion Load, a. for First Article Inspection, this test shall be performed concurrently with the belt pull test. B. Mount a Quartz Force Link Cell Kistler Model 9362 with a Charge Amplifier Model 504E and a Filter Model 545A (Or Equivalent) directly below the receiver, below the locking pin, integral with the mount and in alignment with the receiver buffers. C. Record a time -load trace of recoil using a Honeywell Visicorder Modl 1858 with a TCD (tape compatible differential) Amplifier Model 1887, or approved alternate equipment. D. Trunion load forces are to be measured at the mounting point. The last three (3) rounds of the belt fired shall be discounted. The mount shown here is a special mount custom made to the government specification for the test. The Kistler Force meter is a very expensive and sensitive piece of equipment, yet it is built to handle greater recoil forces than it will measure in this test. The reason for testing during the belt-pull test is based on finding variations in the side weight of the belt, and as the belt lightens the forces will change. This data will be valuable to see the consistency of the construction. After this first article test, the trunnion load tests will be less frequent but based purely on single rounds fired.

In the next issue of Small Arms Defense Journal, we will be joining U.S. Ordnance for the full-tilt firing part of the test. The ammo is lined up, the testing fixtures are ready, and we’ll be doing cadenced endurance testing, temperature testing, belt-pull, cyclic rate of fire, angle of fire, firing modes, accuracy, reliability, and a host of other tests. The full trunnion load test will be done several times through the testing. Be sure to join us!

Part of Military Systems Group’s CNC alley – a variety of high-quality machines with the capability of CNC lathe turning or CNC milling almost any size or type of metal. There are rows of machines like this, with different functions, and at the end is the toolmaker set up. Almost all prototyping and tool requirements can be handled in-house, along with full production runs.

“Military Systems Group: Always quality, always committed to the soldiers.”

Military Systems Group. Inc., located in Nashville, Tennessee, has a long and compelling history in the defense industry. Founded by E.R. ‘Pony’ Maples and Kay Horton in 1977 as part of the original RAMO Mfg. producing the Browning M2HB, the mount-building was in parallel with the first group designing the MK19, including the highly respected Colonel George M. Chinn. Pony astutely noted that a capabilities gap existed between those who made guns and those who made vehicles. Military Systems Group was created in 1984; to address this gap. The original concept was based on the clear need for specific vehicle mounting solutions, in a rapidly evolving vehicle environment. Company growth for almost half a century has been thoughtfully controlled, supportive of their government customers, and grown to be a key partner with many OEMs who supply military and law enforcement organizations worldwide.

There has always been a tremendous need for thoughtfully engineered and reliable mounts for combat vehicles, aircraft, and naval vessels. It’s not high visibility work like the fancy new machine guns might be, the mounts are seldom in the spotlight. Real end users and procurement professionals, though, know the environment soldiers work in is rough on equipment and while the firearms must be robust and reliable, the support systems for vehicle and aircraft mount must meet criteria that are every bit as demanding.

My take-away from meeting current ownership and their engineering/manufacturing team is: “Military Systems Group: always quality, always committed to the soldiers.” I got to spend a day with the owners (both of whom have served with distinction in elite U.S. military and U.S. government organizations), as well as Sales Engineer Barry Becker who has been with the company for over thirty years, the product development engineers, and the Director of Business Development Brace McCoy, as well as others on the team. Brace shared the vision for the company, including how much they value new customers and challenging projects. My in-depth time spent with the engineering team showed the deep commitment and knowledge base the company can draw from. They’re partners with a variety of key USG customers, as well as vehicle and weapon OEMs. As the meeting progressed, Brace emphasized that Military Systems Group is not just a mount manufacturer; they’re concept-to-production-to-fielding program managers for customer requirements. A U.S., NATO, OEM, or other international customer can contact MSG, start the concept conversation to develop a comprehensive needs analysis, and work with the company to get it finished – a one-stop shop for design/build weapons mounts and accessories. This collaborative design process led to the development of the USSOCOM turret system and gunner protection kit that is currently fielded for the GMV 1.1. With full engineering, research, and development in-house, prototyping, precision manufacturing, with market expertise to guide the customer, MSG is also a competitive build-to-print manufacturer. By way of illustration of one of their government contracts, MSG was recently awarded a $72M IDIQ to support prototyping activities for Naval Support Activity Dahlgren.

Twin machine guns have always been desirable on vehicle mounts; they give an added range of options on rate of fire needed, among other things. The M240B machine guns shown in this mount, can use either the hydraulic stock with a rate of fire about 650rpm, or the mechanical buffer stock between 700-750 rpm. The operator can choose to fire one to preserve ammunition; or use both guns, doubling the downrange projectiles and creating an oval beaten zone.

Military Systems Group’s customers wanted the twin mount to use standard M240B or G left-hand-feed guns, which can be quickly dismounted and used in the infantry style, thus the bipods are in place as well as stocks and pistol grips. Pull one pin, dismount, ready to move into the fight on the ground. When twin mounts were originally adopted, it was for air-to-air fighting, and the guns were set to converge at a certain point that was considered optimum distance in a dogfight. This put all rounds into a close group at the selected range- unfortunately, what converges, also diverges. The Military Systems Group engineers and customers agreed that the bullet streams should be in parallel to each other, thus creating an oval beaten zone, covering downrange more effectively to the aim. Feeding and brass/link disposal when you have two left-hand guns is always an issue. The M240 machine gun violently ejects the brass downward, and the links drop from gravity into the same basic area. The right-hand gun must have its ammo can to the right, but feed under the gun to the left side via a channel. The specially designed 600 round ammo cans use the same anti-whip principles as used in the M134 minigun, but the right and left cans must be loaded opposite to each other to present properly to the guns. The special mount base has dual shelves with angles that are anti-spinback, for the brass to deflect downward properly, and the link chute angles do so as well, so no brass or links gum up the system. In the opinion of this writer, an excellent and well-thought-out twin mount. 

The new generation of Military Systems Group’s DShK mount. The DShK has a fairly violent recoil to match its equally impressive muzzle blast; and in the past 20-odd years the DShK and its smaller companion machine gun in many theaters, the PKM, need to be interfaced with U.S./NATO style mounting systems. Here, the DShK is shown on Military Systems Groups’ newest generation of DShK mount on an extended vehicle arm with a vehicle pintle stem, Universal Pintle Adapter travel lock bar and traverse & elevation mechanism. All of those components interchange with the M2HB and MK19 type systems, and the pintle can also be ordered as a 30-50 pintle for the M3 tripod that uses the T&E mechanism. This is a strong, lightweight mount; the charging handle (always part of a DShK mount) is convenient to the left rear under the grips. It is still possible to charge the DShK with a spent 12.7x108mm in case of emergencies. The PKM mount (not shown) is equally adaptable and lightweight. This author has fired extensively with both the MSG first generation DShK mount on vehicle and M3 tripod, and the PKM mounts as well, and can attest to the design being well suited to the guns.

The Universal M134 Minigun Mount Systems were designed for several customers in a variety of helicopter uses such as the Mi-17 door gun mount. This is custom work that the Military Systems Group engineers had to customize in a very short period for customer needs. Any of the various 7.62mm M134 manufacturers’ guns will fit, no modification. This is a stand-alone system generally not requiring extra integration to the aircraft, mounts to the standard bases. It uses any of the standard M134 ammunition cans.

The system requirement included the operator having the ability to prepare the M134 for firing before opening the door, as well as having a footprint/width that appeared to be approximately 12 inches wide. The mount is robust yet light weight, can be adjusted for either side mounting, and stows in a very small area (as shown). The swingarm system has very positive lock positions, rotates in or out on two planes, and the locking/release mechanisms are large enough to handle but are unobtrusive. Reports from end users are that it is an excellent mount, solid to fire from, but this author has not had the chance to live fire from the mount, yet.

Richland Industries LLC

While the size of the facility for Military Systems Group is impressive, and the capabilities are very well-rounded and can accomplish almost any project they take on, the owners allowed that for larger contracts, they also own Richland Industries LLC. Conveniently located between Nashville and Huntsville, AL (an hour south of MSG) the Richland facility has over 500,000 square feet of manufacturing space, with a plethora of fabricating/manufacturing capabilities which includes over 21 overhead cranes, and its own railhead.  Richland primarily supports commercial customers such as municipal clean water facilities and serves to offset some of the risk associated with Defense Contracting.  However, when Military Systems Group receives large orders, they can rapidly pivot to utilize these capabilities.

Military Systems Group Inc.
736 Fesslers Lane
Nashville, TN
Tel: +1- 615-256-4248
Contact: info@milsysgroup.com
Website: milsysgroup.com

In January 2020, Elbit Systems announced that its subsidiary, IMI Systems was selected by the Finnish Ministry of Defence (Finnish MOD), following a competitive testing by the Finish Defence Forces (FDF), to provide the Finnish Army with the M339, a NATO-compliant, 120mm High Explosive Multipurpose ammunition and Data Setting Units for its Leopard 2 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs).

Suitable for all NATO 120mm smooth bore gun MBTs, the M339 is a high-accuracy, multipurpose 120mm tank ammunition that complies with NATO STANAG requirements. The FDF selected the M339 to improve the fire power and ability of the battle tanks to engage different types of targets.

imisystems.com

ELBIT SYSTEMS AWARDED INITIAL $31M CONTRACT FOR PROTECTION SYSTEMS

Elbit Systems announced on January 7, 2020, that it was awarded an initial contract from the Production and Procurement Directorate of the Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD) valued at approximately $31 million to provide Iron Fist Active Protection Systems (APS) for the Eitan Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The contract will be performed over a 5-year period.

Under the contract, Elbit Systems will equip the IDF’s new wheeled AFVs with the Iron Fist Light Decoupled (IFLD) Systems. The Iron Fist System uses optical sensors, tracking radar, launchers and countermeasure munitions to defeat threats at a safe distance. The Iron Fist System provides 360-degree protection coverage for close-range scenarios in both open terrain and urban environment. The systems’ high-performance, versatility and negligible residual penetration, as well as its low size and weight and ease of integration, position the Iron Fist as an optimal APS for any fighting vehicle.

elbitsystems.com

TURKISH ARMED FORCES ADDS ARMED DRONE SYSTEM

SONGAR™, the first national armed drone system to be developed by ASİSGUARD^TM, has been delivered to the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) after the successful completion of acceptance tests. Equipped with advanced features, SONGAR will undertake critical tasks in operations conducted by both TAF and the security forces.

Equipped with an automatic machine gun, SONGAR can carry out operations within a 3km radius. The system can transfer images in real time and carry 200 rounds of 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition. The drone features a specially designed, flexible ammunition feed chute (ammunition belt) and an automatic firing mechanism and can operate at altitudes of 2,800m.

Ayhan Sunar, General Manager at ASİSGUARD, underlined that the SONGAR system is currently unique, saying: “As one of the most prominent drone systems in our product family, SONGAR can undertake many critical tasks, including locating the target area, eliminating the threat, transferring real-time images and carrying out post-operation damage assessment. It stands out as one of the leading national capabilities in asymmetric warfare as a result of its firing accuracy.”

SONGAR has achieved further success in field tests after the integration of a grenade launcher in place of the machine gun, and its firing precision has been significantly improved with the inclusion of an “Electronic Sight and Ballistic Calculation Module,” specially designed by ASİSGUARD. National and international patent applications have been made for SONGAR’s unique stabilisation system.

ASİSGUARD develops systems, subsystems, hardware and software in for military land vehicle electronics; autonomous micro-, mini- and medium-class UAVs; electro-optics; border security; artificial intelligence; and big data.

asisguard.com

QUANTICO TACTICAL ANNOUNCES TLS CONTRACT AWARD

On March 9, 2020, Quantico Tactical announced the award of TLS (Tailored Logistics Support) contract SPE8EJ-19-D-0015. This is an indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity with a firm fixed price of $4,000,000,000 for use through March 6, 2021. This contract allows for special operation equipment to be purchased and delivered to our nation’s military and federal agencies.

Quantico Tactical is a leading supplier of special operations equipment to the U.S. government, DoD and federal law enforcement agencies. This contract expedites the purchase and fielding of necessary equipment for our warfighters. Quantico Tactical has partnered with over a thousand of manufacturers to fulfill this need.

“We have been consistently ranked as the best customer service and highest on-time deliveries of all contractors within the TLS contract. In fact, we are the only current DLA TLS contract awardee to hold DLA’s highest award for operational excellence,” said David Hensley, president of Quantico Tactical. “We will continue to provide the best products, with world class service to our warfighters and federal agents.”

As the nation’s combat logistics support agency, the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) manages the global supply chain, from raw materials to end user to disposition, for the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard, 11 combatant commands, other federal agencies and partner and allied nations.

quanticotactical.com

When ARES Defense Systems first came up with the Shrike belt-fed AR-15 upper, the so-called Assault Weapons Ban was still in effect. Shrike took years to develop, but it filled big shoes: capable of box and belt feed, possessed of a quick-change barrel and compatible with registered select-fire lowers. It was the closest that most of Americans could come to a Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) in private hands. Six generations later, the ARES Shrike upper is now the FightLite MCR. Unlike the long-delayed original, the MCR is available anytime you want one. Positioned as a SAW substitute, much like the Ultimax 100, the MCR has found military adopters in Africa and Asia, in addition to being quite popular with U.S. shooters.

MCR is a closed-bolt design available with a wide variety of quick-change barrels, in 5.56mm and .300 Blackout in lengths from 12.5 inches to 20 inches. A barrel swap can be done in three seconds without an asbestos glove, thanks to insulated handles. The MCR feeds from M27 disintegrating link belts, same as an M249, but it also works reliably from STANAG box magazines. An adapter to hold soft- or hard-sized belt carriers fits into the mag well, permitting the use of 100 or 200 round belts on the move. A short-stroke gas piston with an adjustable regulator allows both suppressed use without over-gassing and emergency hard use for high-volume firing in dirty environments.

Although the MCR is capable of considerable mechanical precision, it’s not a match rifle due to the optic and iron sights placement on top of the feed tray cover. For shooters who want better than 2 MOA and don’t require quite the volume of fire, FightLite now offers conventional AR uppers in 5.56mm and .300 Blackout. With the same high-grade barrel and excellent trigger, those carbines shoot MOA or better out of the box. In general, the high quality of manufacturing and well thought-out industrial design are the calling cards of FightLite.

The SCR

With so many states on the banning binge, FightLite also offers a “featureless” SCR carbine. Also available with a wide variety of barrel lengths and profiles, as well as with wooden, polymer and railed forends, the direct impingement SCR looks like a conventionally stocked hunting rifle. It uses all standard AR magazines. Unlike an AR, SCR carbines use an angled recoil spring guide outwardly reminiscent of Benelli action. Accurate and soft-recoiling, the SCR also went through several generations of refinements, ending up with an excellent trigger and stellar ergonomics. Far from merely being a legal AR-15 substitute for restrictive jurisdictions, the SCR has certain advantages: With the grip being in line with the bore line, it points more naturally than the pistol grip designs. The SCR is also available as a handgun, putting a 7.25-inch barrel into the form of an 18th century dragoon pistol—it looks odd but balances well and makes for very natural pointing. FightLite offers low-profile iron sights just for the 5.56mm/.300 pistol configuration.

The MXR

With surplus rifle ammunition drying up, and more and more people dependent on indoor ranges with pistol-rated backstops, the pistol-caliber carbines have gained popularity. The FightLite MXR system can be configured as a pistol, as a carbine or as a submachine gun. Using a modular barrel retention system, the MXR allows changing barrel lengths and calibers without tools. Going from 9mm to .45ACP to 10mm to 5.7x28mm takes only a few minutes. Blowback operation with varying weight buffers and some bolt overtravel makes for low recoil and smooth action. The MXR has right-handed ejection only, but the reciprocating charging handle is easily reversed. The fire control group is AR-15 style, and magazines, other than 5.7x28mm, are GLOCK-compatible.

Sound Design

All this wide variety of guns comes from the mind of Geoffrey Herring. I’ve asked many technical questions, always getting detailed and logical explanations for why certain features have been added or omitted, or why specific approaches to engineering were employed. The design work and much of the manufacturing are done in-house at the Melbourne, Florida, plant. Given Geoffrey’s background in aviation, a field where small errors can have drastic consequences, it’s no surprise that the QC and testing practices are impressively thorough. Those, along with the sound conceptual basics, explain why the FightLite firearms I’ve used at high-volume range events have all worked consistently and reliably, with excellent accuracy. Incremental development and close attention to detail have really set FightLite apart from the manufacturers of old public domain AR design.

B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc., announced that the BOARS®-M2 optics and accessory rail system has been issued National Stock Number (NSN)1240-01-682-8650 by TACOM, U.S. Army, following successful evaluation and testing through the U.S. Army Soldier Enhancement Program (SEP). A total of 4,752 complete BOARS®-M2 units have been procured for initial fielding by PM Soldier Weapons, PEO Soldier. Designed to support a variety of mounted machine gun optics for the M2 and M3 family of weapon systems, the BOARS-M2 provides a modular, low-profile optics and accessory rail mount with true return-to-zero capability. The BOARS-M2 is ideal for those wishing to easily transition from a day optic to a night optic while retaining boresight for both systems and without interfering with the operation of the spade grips or the feed tray cover. The low-profile M2 mount for optics and accessories translates into a lower end-user defilade and increases operator survivability during use.

bemeyers.com

ELBIT SYSTEMS’ XACT WEAPON SIGHTS IN OPERATIONAL SERVICE WITH IDF

Elbit Systems announced that two configurations of the company’s XACT family of weapon sights have entered operational use with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The company was recently selected to provide thousands of its XACT th65 and XACT th64 uncooled thermal imaging weapon sights to marksmen of both Infantry and Special Operation Forces of the IDF. Last year Elbit Systems announced it concluded delivery of 4,800 XACT th65 weapon sights to the Australian Army.

In a clip-on or stand-alone configuration, the compact XACT weapon sights enable effective operation in day and night. Featuring a high resolution colored OLED display, image processing capabilities and a Region of Interest algorithm, XACT weapon sights enable effective target engagement even under degraded visibility conditions. Embedding a unique calibration algorithm, XACT weapon sights eliminate the need for Non-Uniformity Calibration (NUC) or shutter-based calibration thereby enabling continuous and consistent operation. The XACT th64 provides vehicle target recognition from a 1,100m range and human target recognition from a 600m range, while the XACT th65 enables vehicle target recognition from 1,250m and human target recognition from 750m. Both weapon sights are housed in a sealed fully submersible metal housing.

elbitsystems.com

ELBIT SYSTEMS INTRODUCES VEHICLE-LAUNCHED MULTI-ROTOR MICRO-DRONE

Elbit Systems is launching MAGNI, a fully autonomous and robust multi-rotor vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) that is designed to significantly enhance the situational awareness capabilities of mobile forces. Compact and lightweight, MAGNI enables rapid deployment and launch (in less than 1 minute) from any combat vehicle transforming it to an effective intelligence gathering platform.

The MAGNI system includes a thermal payload, a communications suite (dual S-Band or LTE), an automatic coordinate tracking capability, as well as a built-in interface with Battle Management Systems (BMS). Carrying up to 350gr of payloads it offers a range of up to 3km, a maximum operational altitude of 4,000ft and 30 minutes of endurance. Operated by a single user, MAGNI enables vehicle-mounted forces to generate beyond-the-hill visual intelligence during day and night and seamlessly feed target information to command and control systems. Its unique size, weight and power (SWaP) parameters make MAGNI well-suited for squad, platoon and company levels.

elbitsystems.com

ELBIT SYSTEMS AWARDED $35M TO EQUIP MONTENEGRO’S 4X4 VEHICLES WITH RCWS

Elbit Systems also announced that following a contract signed between the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Defense of Montenegro, it was awarded approximately $35 million to supply the Montenegrin Armed Forces with Remote Controlled Weapon Stations (RCWS) for the new Oshkosh Defense (Oshkosh) 4×4 Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTV). In this contract Elbit Systems will perform full integration of the RCWS onboard, the JLTV over a 3-year period and will provide logistic support for a 7-year period.

Elbit Systems 12.7mm RCWS is lightweight, low silhouette, dual axis and is stabilized, mounted externally onboard armored vehicles. The RCWS offers accurate firing on-the-move and is operated via handles and Smart Displays by the gunner from within the vehicle, providing full protection for the vehicles’ crew who are safely located inside.

elbitsystems.com

During the operational test scheduled for March at Fort Carson, Colorado, soldiers will operate from specially modified Bradley fighting vehicles known as Mission Enabler Technologies–Demonstrators (MET-Ds). The tricked-out vehicles feature remote turrets for the 25mm main gun, 360-degree situational awareness cameras and enhanced crew stations with touch screens.

The first phase of testing will include two MET-Ds and four robotic combat vehicles on M113-armored personnel carrier surrogate platforms. Each MET-D will have a driver and gunner, as well as four soldiers in its rear, who will conduct platoon-level maneuvers with two surrogate vehicles that fire 7.62mm machine guns. One goal for the autonomous vehicles is to learn how to penetrate an adversary’s anti-access/aerial denial capabilities without putting soldiers in danger.

In late FY2021, phase two of the effort will have soldiers conduct experiments at the company level with six MET-Ds and the same M113 surrogates, as well as four light and four medium surrogate robotic combat vehicles (RCVs) provided by industry. “The intent of this is to see how an RCV light integrates into a light infantry formation and performs reconnaissance and security tasks, as well as supports dismounted infantry operations,” stated Maj. Cory Wallace, robotic combat vehicle-lead for the Next Generation Combat Vehicle Cross Functional Team.

Phase three is scheduled for FY2023 and will add four medium and four heavy purpose-built RCVs to the mix. The family of RCVs includes three variants. Army officials envision the light version to be transportable by rotary wing. The medium variant would be able to fit onto a C-130 Hercules aircraft, and the heavy variant would fit onto a C-17 Globemaster aircraft.

Army officials believe that the service’s new Mobile Protected Firepower (MPF) vehicle could influence the development of the heavy RCV. In December 2019, the Army awarded MPF contracts to two firms to build 12 prototypes each and begin delivering them to the service in early 2020. The goal is to select a winner by FY2022 and begin fielding the first of 504 of these lightweight tanks sometime in FY2025, officials say.

The heavy RCV is being designed to provide the enemy-armor killing power of an MPF with even less armor since it doesn’t have to protect soldiers, thus reducing risk. Threats will have to make contact with the robots first, giving commanders additional space and time for decision making.

Otis Technology Acquires DRD Tactical

Otis Technology announced that it has acquired the cutting edge brand of tactical rifles, DRD Tactical. The acquisition took effect October 1, 2019.

DRD Tactical leads the market in the design and manufacture of innovative tactical rifles. Each rifle is designed around three key characteristics: discreet, reliable and precise. They specialize in a patented Quick Take Down rifle that ensures the utmost discretion when operators are traveling on covert operations. These rifles are designed for the military and law enforcement elite with a need for discreet carry.

“We are very excited for this opportunity. Our technology and the base of our product line was [sic] built on innovation, and it’s a key pillar of our values today,” states Larry Williams, CEO, Otis Technology. He continues, “DRD Tactical fully embraces that innovative culture with industry leading, patented rifle designs. We are extremely optimistic about not only the current product line, but what’s in development—as well as the huge potential in firearms and firearm accessories.”

“DRD Tactical complements with the Otis Technology brand very well. Not only is Otis’ mainstay firearm cleaning gear, but we have an incredible facility with advanced manufacturing capabilities. The synergy here is twofold—allowing us to vertically integrate as well as develop new products,” remarks Jim Brooker, Vice President Engineering for Otis Technology’s dedicated R&D facility located in Phoenix, NY.

DRD prides itself on designing and building firearms in the U.S., and operations will continue in their facility in Georgia while sales, marketing and administrative support will be out of Otis headquarters in Lyons Falls, NY.

U.S. Army Selects Three Ammo Companies for NGSW

True Velocity, Inc., SIG SAUER and Textron Systems have been selected for the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) 6.8mm caliber modernization program. True Velocity’s 6.8mm composite-cased cartridge was submitted as part of an overall NGSW weapon system in partnership with General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (OTS) and firearm manufacturer Beretta Defense Technologies. A stand-alone selectee, SIG SAUER offers a bi-metal cartridge design, while Textron Systems’ polymer-cased telescoped cartridge is in the running. Textron is in partnership with Winchester.

True Velocity’s proprietary 6.8mm case design will provide end users with significant logistical and operational advantages over traditional brass-cased ammunition, including substantially increased effective range and muzzle energy, drastic reduction in cartridge weight and enhanced accuracy. The combination of True Velocity’s ammunition with the General Dynamics OTS weapon submission results in a state-of-the-art weapon system capable of long-range lethality, short recoil impulse, significant ballistic improvements and enhanced operational effectiveness for the soldier.

The SIG SAUER system consists of 6.8mm hybrid ammunition, a lightweight machine gun, rifle and included suppressors. SIG SAUER will provide single-source manufacturing for ammunition, weapons and suppressors allowing for less risk and increased capability for the U.S. Army.

Under this award, Textron Systems will deliver 43 6.8mm CT NGSW-Automatic Rifles and 53 NGSW-Rifles, as well as 845,000 rounds of CT ammunition during a 27-month period of performance. The design features improved accuracy and greater muzzle velocity for increased performance, as well as weight savings of both weapon and ammunition over current Army systems.It also incorporates advanced suppressor technology to reduce the firing signature and improve controllability.

The BOARS-M2 is a two-piece design (lower base, and detachable upper rail) which provides a quick-disconnect for effective changes between day and night optics with true return-to-zero reattach. The lower base of the mount is installed via friction clamps and is meant to remain on the host platform, while the detachable rail incorporates rail segments for mounting most common laser systems in conjunction with a top mounted optic, and a pass-through aperture for use of iron sights.

“After a thorough evaluation and testing of many AR-platform rifles, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has chosen the Christensen Arms CA due to its accuracy, reliability and overall weight,” said SLED Chief Mark Keel. “This innovative equipment will update and standardize the agency’s rifle inventory for SLED’s law enforcement personnel.”

The Christensen Arms CA-15 G2 is a custom-built, AR-style rifle optimized for weight and accuracy by utilizing aerospace-grade composites in production. It features a matched receiver set with a contour-matching carbon fiber handguard, Black Nitride™ finished BCG and a single-stage, match-grade trigger assembly. The retail model is offered with stainless steel or carbon fiber barrel options.

“We’re looking forward to an excellent partnership,” said Jason Christensen, President of Christensen Arms. “The CA-15 G2 is a remarkable firearm, and we’re very pleased that the men and women of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division have chosen to carry it.”

christensenarms.com

Australia Investing $3B to Bolster Special Forces with Cutting Edge Capability

According to the Prime Minister Scott Morrision, the Australian government has approved the $500 million first stage of Project GREYFIN. Defence Minister Linda Reynolds said the project would ensure Australia’s Special Forces have the best available equipment across categories such as body armour, weapons, diving, parachute and roping systems, medical search and rescue, communications, human performance training and support.

“Our Special Forces, now more than ever, need to be ready and able to deploy on operations anywhere in the world, at short notice, and in very uncertain conditions,” Minister Reynolds said.

“This first stage of funding enables our Special Forces to engage with intelligence, science and technology and innovation organizations to ensure future threats and opportunities are assessed, to make sure we are delivering them the capability they need in the future.”

Project GREYFIN is expected to present significant opportunities for Australian defence industries. These will span from small-to-large enterprises depending on the capabilities being acquired.

This commitment continues to pursue the special operations capability enhancements outlined in the country’s Defence White Paper 2016.

The Coalition Government is investing more than $200 billion in Australia’s defence capability over the next decade—the nation’s biggest peacetime investment in Defence.

pm.gov.au

JDI Firearms, Inc. (dba SAN Imports) Signs with PGM Precision of France

JDI Firearms is now the exclusive importer of PGM Precision’s renowned sniper rifle systems in the United States. JDI Firearms/SAN Imports, exclusive importer of SAN Swiss Arms and Wyssen Defence, announced in August 2019 that an agreement was signed with PGM Precision of France. Under this agreement, JDI Firearms/SAN Imports will be importing to, marketing to and educating U.S. civilians, law enforcement and military on the complete line of PGM Precision bolt-action sniper rifles.

“We at JDI Firearms/SAN Imports are excited to bring these first-class, precision sniper rifles to the American public and competitors, law enforcement and military professionals,” Dave Wagner, President of JDI Firearms/SAN Imports, commented. “PGM Precision has been designing and manufacturing sniper rifles for the international market for over 25 years and has an outstanding reputation for quality, accuracy, and precision.”

PGM Precision was founded in the French Alps in 1993. Within two years of its founding, PGM Precision had won a French Army tender for the 12.7 Hècate 2 rifles to equip all French infantry regiments and Special Forces. Since then, PGM has continued to design and expand the Hècate rifle, introduce the PGM338 and the Ludis, the first rifle specially developed for sport shooters. At the 2018 Eurosatory, PGM Precision introduced the Mini Hècate 2.

JDI Firearms/SAN Imports will be importing the full line of PGM Precision rifles including the Ultima Ratio, Hècate 2 (LE/Mil-restricted), PGM338, Ludis and Mini Hècate 2, plus a line of high-quality precision and long-range shooting accessories.

pgmprecisionusa.com

ST Engineering Secures Contracts Worth $1.5B for Second Quarter 2019

On July 25, 2019, Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (ST Engineering) announced that its Aerospace and Electronics sectors have secured new contracts with a combined value of about $1.5 billion for the second quarter (2Q) of 2019.

Among several other contracts obtained in ST Engineering’s Electronics and Aerospace sectors, its Training and Simulation business received a contract worth $95 million (USD) from the U.S. Army to develop and deliver a unified simulation platform for the Army’s synthetic training environment that meets demands for next generation collective training.

stengg.com

High Speed Gear® Awarded Marine Corps Contract

In July 2019, High Speed Gear® was awarded the contract to provide Infantry Combat Equipment (PM ICE), Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM) with 150,000 double rifle magazine pouches. The HSGI® X2R TACO® MOLLE Pouch was chosen for its preferred functionality, versatility and weight.

The HSGI® X2R TACO® will handle any type of rifle magazines. The Double Decker® design allows the user to carry 2 magazines in a single pouch that takes up only 3 inches of horizontal space on the platform. The X2R uses injection-molded, polymer brackets, CORDURA® front and back, shock cord lacing and a thin HDPE separator to ensure adjustability and user-perfect fit to maximize deployment capabilities.

“Over the years, all branches of the military have used High Speed Gear. We are honored to have been selected by the United States Marine Corps to provide 150,000 X2R TACO® pouches as the solution for the requested modular double rifle magazine pouch,” said Bill Babboni, vice president of sales and operations. “It was exciting to learn that HSGI was selected especially since Marine preference played a sizable part in the selection process.”

highspeedgear.com

PROOF Research’s Carbon Fiber Barrels Contracted by U.S. DoD

PROOF Research announced in July 2019 that its industry-leading carbon fiber barrels will be an integral part of the U.S. DoD’s newly contracted MRAD® rifles in .300 PRC from Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Inc.

The contract was announced year-end 2018, for an undisclosed number of Barrett’s modular, precision, bolt-action MRAD rifles, chambered in Hornady’s new long-range .300 PRC cartridge. The barrels for these rifles were engineered for purpose by PROOF and use a unique hand-laid, high-stiffness carbon wrap process to give the U.S. military the very best barrel technology available today.

A PROOF barrel utilizes high-strength, aerospace-grade carbon fibers that are impregnated with a proprietary matrix resin developed by their Advanced Composites Division. PROOF-ACD has developed many different high temperature resins and carbon fiber layups that allow PROOF’s design engineers to create a superior barrel solution for even the most demanding of applications. Furthermore, the technology used in their manufacturing process is scalable which opens up opportunities for small-, medium- and large-caliber applications.

There are many benefits of incorporating aerospace grade carbon fiber technology into a military rifle. PROOF Research carbon fiber barrels are up to 50% lighter than steel barrels of similar contour, which is crucial for operators moving rapidly from one position to another and when carrying their gear over long distances. The carbon fiber wrap also makes the barrel highly resistant to weather, grit, dings, scratches and all-around abuse.

PROOF Research’s high-fiber content, cut-rifled composite barrels are extremely accurate. Well known within the precision rifle competition community as the first choice for match-grade accuracy, the long-range accuracy, performance and reliability of PROOF Research’s carbon fiber barrels are not only benefits, but critical for mission success among these elite military teams.

proofresearch.com

LAPD AND LASD SWAT OFFICERS TO USE TEAM WENDY® HELMETS

Two of the best tactical teams in the U.S. have chosen Cleveland-based Team Wendy^® as their ballistic helmet provider.

Team Wendy, which researches and develops high-quality headborne systems from the inside out, announced August 22, 2019, that the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) purchased the company’s EXFIL^® Ballistic SL helmet. LAPD bought 85 black helmets for its SWAT team, and LASD ordered 95 helmets in ranger green for its Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB).

LAPD’s SWAT team rescues dozens of hostages and manages 120-plus high-risk warrants and approximately 100 barricaded suspect cases per year. It responds to barricade or hostage incidents where the suspect is believed to be armed or an extreme threat to public safety. Typical situations include the presence of weapons, suspected gang activity and heavily fortified locations.

LASD is the largest sheriff’s department in the world. The Special Enforcement Bureau, newly equipped with Team Wendy helmets, is a full-time unit of tactical paramedics and rescue specialists, including a canine detail and a special weapons team. It works hand-in-hand with the department’s arson/explosives and hazardous materials details and coordinates security for visiting dignitaries and politicians, including the U.S. president and vice president. SEB responds to an estimated 200-300 tactical operations every year, including barricaded suspects, high-risk warrants and hostage situations.

The EXFIL Ballistic SL is the fifth helmet in Team Wendy’s EXFIL line. It has a complete system weight of 2.2 pounds, meets a ballistic rating of NIJ Level III-A (according to NIJ STD 0106.01/0108.01) and exceeds ACH blunt-impact protection requirements. It features the newer, lighter EXFIL Rail 3.0 for more efficient accessory mounting and the boltless CAM FIT^™ Retention System for individualized fit and superior weight distribution.

teamwendy.com

What makes Nammo different from other military cartridge producers is that we focus on specialty ammunition. While giant factories like Lake City Army Ammunition Plant (LCAAP) in Independence, MO (U.S.), turn out millions of general-purpose rounds, Nammo concentrates on products that can defeat armor, incapacitate air and ground vehicles, lighten the load and make training more effective.

Nammo is a relative newcomer but with a long legacy. The company started in 1998 by combining military ammunition businesses in the Nordic countries of Norway, Sweden and Finland. Originally short for “Nordic Ammunition Company,” it today includes factories that have been building bullets, charges and cartridges for hundreds of years. In the 21 years since its founding, Nammo has grown to include factories in Germany, Spain and the U.S. Today Nammo has operations at six locations in the U.S., including: Mesa, AZ; Columbus, MS; Salt Lake City, Utah; Scranton and Moscow, PA; and most recently in Bay St. Louis, MS, following the acquisition of polymer cartridge manufacturer MAC LLC, today owned 55% by Nammo.

Combat Effective Ammunition

One of the key products Nammo delivers to the U.S. Military is 5.56mm and 7.62mm Armor Piercing Ammunition. These rounds feature Tungsten carbide (WC) penetrators that punch through light steel armor plate and virtually all building materials—even reinforced concrete. The M995 (5.56mm) round is compatible with standard weapons such as the M16/M4 family of rifles and the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) system. The M995 can penetrate armor up to ½-inch thick including “improvised armor” attached to commercial vehicles—think pick-up trucks with steel plates covering the doors. Similarly, the M993 (7.62mm) can be used with the M240 machine gun, M134 Gatling gun, all varieties of 7.62mm marksman and sniper rifles and the SCAR-heavy. The M993 can penetrate up to ¾ inch of RHA at 100m and can stop a vehicle with shots to the engine block.

Nammo also makes .338 diameter AP projectiles and ammunition under the Lapua brand. These rounds are generally intended for anti-materiel purposes. High value targets such as RADARS, communications vehicles and data systems are no match for a .338 Lapua Magnum or .338 Norma Magnum round fired from almost a mile away.

In the 1980s, Nammo’s predecessor company, Raufoss Ammunition, developed the MK211 .50 caliber round by scaling down a 20mm Multipurpose Aircraft cartridge. Known ever since as the “Raufoss round,” it maximizes the effectiveness of a .50 cal sniper system, an M2HB or its cousins, the M3, GAU-19 and GAU-21. This is the round that keeps armored personnel carrier drivers and passengers up at night. The Multipurpose technology includes a Tungsten carbide penetrator combined with an incendiary compound and a high explosive.

When the projectile strikes a target, the impact energy ignites the incendiary—part of which acts as a fuzed delay for the high explosive. In the meantime, the Tungsten carbide penetrator punches through the armor making a hole where the blast, blast fragments and incendiary join armor spall to create an “extreme effect” on the other side.

The current version of the Raufoss round will penetrate 22mm (0.86 inch) of armor plate at 200m (~220 yards) and will punch through multiple layers of brick and adobe, not to mention lighter materials like wood. Because of its unique construction, tight tolerances, rearward center of gravity and the concentration of mass near the axial centerline, MP rounds are extremely accurate when used in .50 cal sniper systems.

Training and Low-Collateral Damage Cartridges

Several training scenarios require a different style of ammunition to preserve training ranges, limit surface danger zones or protect the shooter.

First are situations where the range (including the size of the Surface Danger Zone, or SDZ) is necessarily small. This can occur when a training range is needed close to a base, when the local population is encroaching on an existing base or when the total size of the ranges is fixed, but more smaller “sub ranges” would allow more individuals and units to train at once. For these situations, Nammo makes Reduced Range (RR/RR-T) ammunition. These cartridges, available as ball and tracer, allow for realistic weapon firing for a few hundred meters (7.62mm) or up to 1500m for .50cal but with a total danger zone that is less than half of that for a standard round. Nammo’s solution uses spin dampening “flutes” at the front of a lighter-weight projectile with a “non-boat-tail” rear. This allows the projectile to start out like a regular round but with a lower ballistic coefficient (BC) and a fast-decaying spin rate; once it passes the training target it soon slows and hits the ground. In addition to use in training, these rounds have been used in combat situations where civilians are near the combat zone or when delicate or expensive equipment is nearby—think ship defense when in port.

Another situation where a less destructive, shorter-range round is needed is close combat training—especially in shoot houses. It is important the ammunition enables realistic training but with little damage to the training structure and a reduced risk of injury/death of the participants who are working in close quarters. For these scenarios, Nammo makes Plastic Short Range Training Ammunition (PSRTA). The body of these cartridges and the plastic projectile are made in one piece. Upon firing, the plastic bullet separates from the case and accelerates down the barrel. These rounds are still lethal at very close range, but when fired from at least a meter away, they don’t penetrate shoot house building materials and the ricochets have a low probability of causing a serious injury (but please, keep your safety glasses in place).

Recent Developments

Nammo continually asks, “What do warfighters need to do their job better?” With the U.S. military’s experiences since 2003, two specific requests top the list: lower weight and reduced signature.

Lower Weight

An ammunition cartridge has four components: a bullet, smokeless powder, a primer and a cartridge case. Carrying ammunition in bulk is expensive and heavy. The weight of the ammunition alone is a significant part of the more than 75 pounds an infantryman is typically asked to carry. Both the powder and the bullet are more effective in proportion to their mass. That is, in general, a bigger projectile going faster is better. The primer doesn’t have much mass, so that leaves the cartridge case—a part of the system that just “sits there.” Its job is to provide a container for the bullet, powder and primer and to provide a seal against the gasses inside leaking out of the weapon breech. As long as the case can still function reliably, lighter is better.

As it happens, brass is a very special material. When it is worked it becomes very hard, but when annealed by heat it becomes soft and ductile. That is just what a cartridge case needs—a material that is hard where the primer is installed and the case is extracted, but soft to hold and then release the bullet. The Nammo/MAC polymer case incorporates a conventional hardened brass head with a polymer case body that seals the high pressures and grips the projectile.

Currently, special units and the U.S. Marine Corps have procured .50 caliber MAC polymer, lightweight-cased cartridges, and the U.S. Army is working on 7.62mm cases. The concept has been demonstrated for 5.56mm, intermediate calibers, .300 Blackout and even some medium caliber (30mmx173) ammunition.

In addition to the weight lost in the case, Nammo has developed a lightweight .50-caliber polymer disintegrating link to replace the M9 steel/phosphate-coated link. The lightweight link reduces the system weight by around 6.5 percent, reduces loads (due to weight) on the weapon and eliminates weapon wear caused by the steel-to-steel scratches. Bonus: a polymer link does not ever rust like a steel M9 link does once the phosphate coating is compromised.

Reduced Signature Ammunition

Nammo is a leader in reduced signature ammunition and has developed dim tracer, or IR (infrared) tracer, in all NATO calibers. Dim tracers are only seen through night vision devices (NVDs), a technology that was perfect for the asymmetric warfare of the last two decades. We could see them, but they could not see us. IR tracers are also excellent for use by gunners behind .50 caliber machine guns at night, since normal tracers can blind gunners using NVDs.

To help maintain the advantage, Nammo has been involved with the U.S. Army in developing One-Way Luminescence (“OWL”) tracers that trace in the visible spectrum but limit the angle at which the tracer can be seen—meaning from behind or side. This technology, when perfected, will allow friendly troops to see where the tracers go but will not allow the enemy to see where the rounds came from—even if they are a near-peer adversary with NVDs.

Similarly, Nammo has been involved in work to eliminate “muzzle flash” for tracers. Muzzle flash is the bright light caused by burning material outside of the gun barrel after the bullet exits the muzzle end of the weapon. Such flashes make it very easy for the enemy to see the shooter’s location. The flash can be created by the way smokeless powder burns and creates oxygen-starved intermediate combustion products. Those hot intermediate products ignite when the oxygen in the air becomes available outside of the barrel. Most of this kind of flash has been eliminated by improved propellants that burn more completely inside the weapon. An additional source of flash, though, is due to a small amount of tracer material that is broken off of the bullet before it leaves the barrel. The bullet experiences high shock loads, high gas pressure and violent burning on its surface which can cause small chunks to break off. Nammo has improved the tracer manufacturing process to eliminate the flashes so that now machine gunners who are otherwise hidden are virtually invisible.

Specialty Ammunition

It is fitting that the first ammunition product produced by any of Nammo’s current factories was percussion caps, starting as early as 1828 in Germany. Replacing the venerable flintlocks, percussion cap rifles gave a significant advantage on the battlefield through dramatically improved reliability in all weather conditions. While technology certainly has changed since then, Nammo’s mission remains the same—to provide a reliable advantage to the U.S. and its allies by delivering advanced specialty ammunition and tools essential to properly train the modern warfighter, today, tomorrow and in the future.