Many have become increasingly interested with the ability to “see” at night albeit via traditional image intensifying night vision or thermal technology for various reasons … tactical, hunting, surveillance, general principle “because you can,” and so on. Each system has its advantages. Most of us realize from the first Gulf War in 1990-1991 and subsequent involvements in Iraq and Afghanistan that night vision has revolutionized the modern battlefield and is a crucial advantage exploited by our armed forces over less well-equipped opponents. As often happens with advanced military technology, it finally trickles its way down to LE and civilian users. Our focus will be on the thermal technology as represented by the Trijicon REAP-IR (IRMS 60 model).

Trijicon has entered the optics market in force over the last several years with several innovative designs and new takes on established concepts. Trijicon has evolved into a recognized industry leader in the development and manufacturing of all types of optics such as red dots, magnified optics, handgun iron sights and recently thermal. Trijicon definitely has “skin” in the optics game with numerous models in its product line-up.

Trijicon acquired prominent military contractor IR Defense—including its products, R&D and manufacturing plant—as the basis for a new Electro-Optics Division. As is the case with most of its products, Trijicon thermal optics are manufactured in the US. Currently, multiple product lines are offered in the form of rifle scopes (with several models), monocular and clip-on thermal versions. Trijicon also has a licensing agreement with BAE Systems for their OASYS thermal imaging and aiming technology. With this technology license, Trijicon positioned itself well to provide compact,

high-performance thermal imaging and aiming monoculars, weapon sights and binoculars.

The technical aspects of the Trijicon REAP IR must be discussed to ensure full appreciation. These will be applied in the hunting arena as well as in trials in the LE realm as part of both patrol and training scenarios. I have heard that thermals are not optics per se. Yes, the similarity to traditional rifle scope form is hard to miss. A better way to think of a thermal such as the Trijicon REAP-IR is as a digital camera feeding off of infrared/heat waves with a signal processor creating images for our recognition. The REAP-IR has a sensor resolution of 640×480 pixels, which is currently leading edge for thermal scopes. It has a sensor pitch of 12 microns which allows for sharper images versus the more prevalent 17-micron pitch models found on the market. 12-micron capability allows for increased magnification potential as well. The scope also has a frame rate of 60 Hz, meaning the thermal core refreshes the image you see 60 times a second; all of this is crucial for successful tracking/engagement/observation of moving targets.

The Trijicon REAP-IR features multiple reticle save locations. This capability allows a user to transfer the REAP-IR between different weapon platforms by associating certain reticle locations with a specific weapon that has been sighted in accordingly. The REAP-IR also has 5 different reticle patterns to choose from to suit users’ needs.

A Stadiametric Range Finder allows for fast and accurate ranging of targets. Users can quickly determine the distances to target by setting ranging units and target size. The ranging “reticle” is then adjusted to the target being viewed, and the distance is displayed on the Range Read-Out Display.

Trijicon has equipped the REAP-IR with an Edge Detect Mode. This feature was pioneered in military thermals after getting feedback from operators. The two CR123 Lithium batteries provide approximately 4 hours of run time. Edge Detect helps to limit user eye fatigue and allow the user to stay behind the thermal optic longer. This is done by reducing the brightness of the overall display to reduce night blindness when coming off the scope, while still outlining objects producing a heat signature to better grab the user’s attention. Less light emitting from the back of the thermal also helps to prevent inadvertently revealing a shooter’s position.

Other enhancing REAP-IR features are White Hot/Black Hot Polarity control and Digital Focus Control (DFC) ensuring zero is maintained during magnification increases of 4.5x optical and 8x digital. DFC will auto-sharpen images to enhance clarity and detail. The Polarity control offers users three levels, each of white hot/black hot for adaptation to specific situations. Trijicon thermal scopes are built to MIL-STD-810G standards translating into being capable of withstanding temperature extremes, rain, humidity, sand, dust, vibrations and shock standards based on specific testing.

All features such as sighting-in, Polarity adjustments, magnification adjustments, reticle choice, etc., are chosen via thumbstick toggle control on the right side of the REAP-IR. Users familiar with higher end digital camera interface methods will find REAP-IR controls familiar. The screens that appear and are toggled through are very similar to modern DSLR cameras. Initial reference to the well-prepared user manual will guide you to the screen required. After a few tries, the grouping of features is easily figured out. For example, the “Easy Zero Method” makes sighting-in easier than for a traditional optic. Once the correct screen is found, follow the onscreen prompts. When in effect, fire a round from a stable position. Inspect where the round impacted and toggle adjustments into the optic via MOA readout to then place reticle where the round landed versus the aiming point. Firing another round or two for confirmation is always recommended.

The REAP-IR was mounted on a SIG SAUER 716G2 DMR .308Win. A SIG SAUER 7.62 suppressor rounded out the potent package. The author’s thought was to limit the need for ear pros once taken afield. One nuance with the sight-in procedure was placing duct tape on the target to provide an aiming point when viewing through the REAP-IR thermal—on paper target only provided no real center reference. The “Easy Sight” mode got the REAP-IR zeroed within five rounds. The theoretical eye relief is 27mm with the REAP-IR calculated to see the entire eyepiece field of view. Functional eye relief is longer than that since you do not really need to see the entire eyepiece FOV to see the screen well. I bring this up as an important nuance, especially with weapons chambered in cartridges in the .30 caliber or up power range.

Once the platform for the Trijicon REAP-IR was chosen, sighted-in field use got seriously underway. Immediately, several night forays were set up in pursuit of predators and general usage to get a sense of what the Trijicon REAP-IR (IRMS 60) offers. The compact 7.5-inch long, 32-ounce REAP-IR delivered surprisingly detailed imaging performance out to 300 yards plus. There was no issue identifying deer, coyotes, raccoons and foxes. The polarity contrast of heat actually made detection easier in certain areas than if merely using binoculars during the day. The amount of heat signature of vegetation was surprising in thicker/denser areas. However, the ability to adjust settings with the REAP-IR maintained the ability to observe effectively. The preferred method was to keep the REAP-IR at a low magnification setting for observation purposes and then increase magnification as needed for shot placement.

One huge advantage of a thermal is its ability to be used during the day. Image intensifying night vision optics are not so flexible. The Trijicon REAP-IR has a temperature sensitivity listed as less than 50mK which converts to .09 degree Fahrenheit! This sensitivity allows for the REAP-IR to be used in a tracking mode either for tracks or blood trails, even during the day. The DLOC mounting bracket with the REAP-IR allows for it to be easily removed from the rifle and used as a hand-held unit with reinstall maintaining zero.

Besides the hands-on field hunting experience with the Trijicon REAP-IR, various Federal and local contacts were utilized to gain their insights into the best use practices of thermal optics related to law enforcement. Several “ride alongs” proved educational. There was no doubt the Trijicon REAP-IR was a performance enhancement over white light. Thermal optics allows officers the ability to see their surroundings in a brand new way; pun intended. The technological advantage is similar to what our military experiences. The night can no longer shield suspects. Officers using thermal optics have a range of abilities not available with flashlights or even image intensifying night vision optics.

Weapon-mounted sights are not necessarily the thermal optics forte in the LE realm due to the uncompromising need to positively identify a target before engaging. What the REAP-IR offers is unsurpassed surveillance capability and huge assistance in fugitive searches both day and night in urban or rural settings. Dark or camouflaged clothing worn by a suspect can make it very difficult for officers to use light or night vision technology to distinguish him from his surroundings. With a thermal imager, officers have the ability to see the suspect’s body heat, which makes it very difficult for the suspect to conceal his position, whether he is hiding inside of a structure or outdoors. Imagine rolling up to a situation and being able to quickly and discretely assess potential problems in terms of individuals hiding or even animals that may be encountered. This scenario can be expanded to include a suspect on the run and/or cornered.

One large open space approximately 800 yards long showed the Trijicon REAP-IR’s potential with no issues detecting heat signatures at extended ranges for animals or human passersby. Larger objects such as vehicles show up even further out. For a law enforcement officer or security minded civilian, this could translate into detecting objects at a distance; then, closing the gap and being able to determine what the object is …warm engine block, a dog—or a fleeing suspect.

Another capability tailor-made for thermal optics is search and rescue. The Trijicon REAP-IR in a hand-held capacity can help officers search large areas in short order. Officers may be able to search hundreds of yards in any direction quickly thanks to people’s inability to hide body heat. The Trijicon REAP-IR eases search efforts in large fields, parks, near roadways and wooded areas. Searches near bodies of water also offer opportunities to use a thermal imager. As long as the victim is not completely submerged, body heat should be detected by the thermal imager. You can scan a large area in seconds and detect life-based emitting heat sources.

The Trijicon REAP-IR is an awesome piece of equipment. Some will point at the price tag and snort; totally understandable. However, cutting edge, top tier gear that allows you to experience another sense beyond our God-given five will never be had on the cheap. The image clarity and detail are impressive. With the Trijicon REAP-IR, nothing can hide day or night.

trijicon.com

Bullseye Camera System Announce Remote Targeting Viewing
The Bullseye Camera System is a unique patent-pending system that allows a shooter to view his downrange target right from the shooting location on his smartphone, tablet of laptop. The system features a special camera that sets up, down by the target and wirelessly transmits video back to the shooters position, via a wireless device, from locations up to 1 mile away. The shooter can instantly see each shot flashing on the screen no matter how many times the target has been shot. The system is completely wireless and does not require internet service or a cellular signal. The system works with rifle, pistol, archery, small bore, large bore and even patterning shotguns. Another great feature is that no special targets are required. You can use paper, cardboard, 3-D foam and even steel. The system includes a special weather-proof camera with night vision, a tripod, router, antenna, signal booster, 5-hour rechargeable Lithium-ion battery with charger and all required connector wire complete in a fitted secure carrying case. The unit also comes with a thumbdrive with Bullseye Target Manager software. The software is available for Android, iOS and Windows operating systems. The user also gets free software updates so as new features are made available you can simply download them. The camera also features a Laser Target Identifier to align the camera on the target when setting up the unit. The camera system comes in two models; the Standard Edition, which is good up to 500 yards and the Long Range Edition which has a range of 1 mile. Each model can also be ordered in an Elite Edition that adds a laptop. The two base models retail for just $449 and $549 complete. The company also offers an optional antenna that couples with the Long Range Edition to extend its range to well over 1 mile. For more information or to see demonstration videos you can go to www.bullseyecamera.com.

FLIR ThermoSight R-Series
Infrared technology leader FLIR announces the release of the ThermoSight R-Series, the world’s first line of thermal night vision scopes for non-game hunting starting under $3,500. The R-Series is also the first recreational scope within FLIR’s popular ThermoSight line of weapon sights, which includes models for law enforcement & the military. Compact and easy-to-use, the R-Series displays the body heat of humans as well as varmints and predators, regardless of the amount of visible light present. The scope has automatic image optimization and an advanced shock reduction system that is qualified for an MSR semiautomatic platform, up to .30 caliber. The R-Series also provides three inches of eye relief and multiple reticle options, with a repeatable & dependable zero. The R-Series is available in six different models, with a range of wide and narrow field of view lenses, and up to a 16x magnification. Each model includes a variety of video palettes, including FLIR’s exclusive “InstAlert” setting, which uses red colorization to display the hottest areas on screen. The R-Series attaches to any Mil-Std 1913 Picatinny rail, and its durable protective casing provides water resistance in up to three feet of water. Because of ITAR controls, the ThermoSight R-Series is only available for sale in the United States. For more detailed information, including specs, visit www.flir.com.

Mission First Tactical Torch Line
Mission First Tactical, LLC (MFT) is proud to introduce Torch; the new MFT series of lights and IR for home defense, law enforcement, security and as a primary light source backup. The Torch line includes three models: all are USA made by Princeton Tec. The Torch Backup Light White (TBLW) is a low profile, Picatinny mounted light with dual white LEDs. It has a recessed pressure pad for easy activation and a power button for simple ON/OFF functions. The illumination is low output for signature reduction during patrol, stealth structure search and approach to the target and breaching operations. The Torch Backup Light White has a 10-year storage lifespan, a 12-hour burn time with a 20-lumen bright white output. It weighs just 22 grams and has an IPX7 water resistant rating. MSRP is $59.99. The Torch Backup Light White/Red (TBLWR) illumination tool has many of the same features of the TBLW, except the dual LEDs are white and red; it has a 24-hour burn time and a 10-lumen output. Also, the power button features a one-click for low, a second click for high & a hold for 2-seconds brings on the primary light functionality. MSRP is $59.99. The third light in the Torch series is the Backup Light with Red/IR LEDs (TBLIR). It features all the same specifications of the TBLWR and includes the IR LED. MSRP is $59.99. For more information on the new Mission First Tactical Torch series of illumination tools, visit Mission First Tactical online at www.missionfirsttactical.com.

Ohio Ordnance Works HCAR
Ohio Ordnance Works, Inc. is proud to introduce the H.C.A.R. (Heavy Counter Assault Rifle), a rifle built on a similar cast receiver to the original Ohio Ordnance semiautomatic BAR but with significant improvements. The H.C.A.R. is 7 pounds lighter for faster, easier handling and more comfortable carrying and shooting. It fires the original .30-06 round and uses the same patented action as the original OOW semi-auto BAR (the 1918A3) and fires from the closed bolt. It also features a Picatinny rail to facilitate both a mounted optic and a back-up sight. The barrel has been dimpled using a patented design to reduce weight while maintaining rigidity and strength and to speed barrel cooling. The barrel is also threaded with the industry standard 5/8-24 thread that allows users to choose the flash suppressor, muzzle brake or sound suppressor their choice.

The H.C.A.R. comes with a newly designed handguard with four integrated Picatinny rails. These rails allow another optic device set-up (thermal with the main optic, etc.), as well as the attachment of the shooter’s choice of bipods, sling swivels, lights, etc. The trigger housing has been redesigned with an easier-to-engage safety with a shorter throw (45 degrees). There are new, quick-release push-pull pins that allow for a much simpler disassembly. It also has a new 6-pound trigger that is short and crisp, so the pull feels like a match trigger and the reset is just as short. The shooter can squeeze off controlled, accurate shots one after another. The ergonomic pistol grip allows for a more natural wrist alignment for shooting comfort and the easy-to-reach, intuitive magazine release paddle is quickly engaged so the time between mag changes is fast.

The H.C.A.R. has a bolt hold-open mechanism that locks the bolt to the rear when the mag is empty or whenever the bolt is manually pulled back without a magazine in the rifle. This allows single feeding, simple “one look” check for clear chamber, and easy field cleaning. The buffer system has been upgraded to a hydraulic buffer from the original cone buffering system, which slices the felt recoil of the rifle by at least half. The result is that the sight picture is easily maintained during firing with little to no effort. The internal threads of the buffer housing allow attachment of either Mil-Spec or aftermarket AR-15/M4 buttstock/buffer tubes, letting the shooter easily choose his or her own AR-15/M4 buttstock. For more information visit www.ohioordnanceworks.com.

Laser Devices DBAL-PL
The DBAL-PL is Laser Devices’ newest civilian legal product – available for everyone to purchase. This rugged, compact device makes your pistol an equal to the carbine in aiming and lighting capabilities and allows the pistol to be a usable tool in conjunction with night vision devices. The DBAL-PL features two operational modes – Visible mode: 400 lumen white light and choice of 5mW red or green laser; IR mode: Class 1 IR Laser with 600mW Eye-Safe LED Illuminator. Additional features include co-aligned visible and IR aiming lasers with fully adjustable windage and elevation. The DBAL-PL mounts to standard pistol rails or M1913 rail systems using a fully adjustable mounting interface for zero retention on any rail and a quick release battery compartment allows for battery changes on the fly while mounted. The DBAL-PL is powered by two (2) CR123A lithium batteries, activated by discrete push button switches located on the rear of the housing and machined from anodized aircraft aluminum then Type III hardcoat anodized for durability. See more at www.laserdevices.com.

Glock introduces the Glock 42
Glock, Inc. has announced the launch of its newest pistol – the Glock 42. The G42 is the smallest Glock pistol ever introduced, making it ideal for pocket carry and other deep concealment carry methods. Years of requests across all market groups for a super-concealable .380 Glock pistol prompted extensive development to bring the Glock customer the G42. The slim design of the G42 fits the hands of any shooter; specifically it gives women or those with smaller hands a comfortable option like they’ve never seen before. Glock’s smallest pistol uses the same Safe Action System found in all Glock pistols, is backed by more than 25 years of engineering excellence and comes with the Glock Limited Lifetime Warranty. The new Glock 42 is chambered in .380 ACP and hold 6 plus 1 rounds. The tiny gun is just 5.75 inches long and is less than 1 inch thick. The gun’s 3.25 inch barrel produces a velocity of 886 fps depending on ammunition. The gun is lightweight at just under 14 ounces with an empty magazine. More information can be found at www.glock.com.

TAC Shield Heavy Duty Bipods
TAC Shield is introducing their new line of precision engineered heavy duty bipods for active shooters. Strong high grade aluminum components are matched with a tough and durable matte finish ensuring a lifetime of shooting performance and protection. TAC Shield bipods offer fully adjustable and extendable legs. The precision leg lock offers secure variable length adjustment for each leg, accommodating terrain or surface variations. Each leg offers an additional fast extension that locks solidly in place supported with ribbed grip caps providing a secure and steady rest for the largest calibers. Legs retract quickly and positively with their spring return release buttons. Standard and pivoting models in various adjustable leg lengths offer a great selection for shooters to choose the right match for their rifle and accurate shooting needs. All bipods quickly and securely attach to swivel studs or rail adapters. All offer a time-proven spring leg deployment system providing strong and steady shooting, while folding for secure and out of the way storage. All products are backed with a Lifetime Warranty by people you can trust. Military Products, Inc. is proud to offer the TAC Shield brand of precision and quality products. Many of their products and designs are battle proven by our warfighters around the world. Please visit www.tacshield.com for more information about this and their other combat proven gear.

SIG Sauer SIG556xi
SIG Sauer has just introduced their new SIG556xi, rewriting the standard for modularity, reliability, and performance for the modern rifle platform. Based on the legendary SG550, the SIG556xi will change the way military, law enforcement, and responsible citizens look at adaptable rifles. Utilizing the time-tested rotating bolt and adjustable gas piston operating system, the SIG556xi allows operators a choice of caliber, barrel length, handguard/stock configurations and lower receivers. A removable barrel allows the operator to select the necessary length for a given mission. Adding the appropriate bolt, the SIG556xi can be changed to any of three calibers, 5.56x45mm NATO, 300 Blackout, and 7.62x39mm NATO. Users can also quickly change out the non-serialized lower receiver, allowing the use of either AR-style STANAG magazines or rock-and-lock AK-style magazines. The SIG556xi upper receiver is the serialized part, making the lower an easy to purchase part. Polymer handguards accept all Magpul light and rail kits, while the aluminum and carbon fiber handguards accept 2-, 4-, and 6-inch M1913 rails. Barrels are available in 10-, 14.5-, and 16-inches. Truly ambidextrous, the SIG556xi features an ambidextrous safety selector, magazine release and user swappable charging handle (right- or left-handed). Optional receiver end plates allow for the use of either AR receiver extension tubes and buttstocks or M1913 compatible stocks. Thanks to a redesigned trigger package, the military and law enforcement versions of the SIG556xi are capable of full-auto fire in every caliber, including 7.62x39mm. The Russian lower has been thoroughly function tested with many available AK magazines, including US P.A.L.M. www.sigsauer.com.

Trijicon VCOG 1-6X24MM
The new Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) 1-6x24mm meets the rigorous demands of duty or competition while giving shooters the flexibility to engage CQB targets & out to the maximum effective range of most service rifles. Designed and built in the USA, the Trijicon VCOG is machined from a 7075-T6 aluminum forging and given a Mil Spec, hard-coat anodized finish. There is a full 90 MOA of windage and elevation adjustment available in 1/2-inch click increments at 100 m to get almost any weapon system on target. Lenses are all fully multicoated with a broadband anti-reflective coating that maximizes light transmission while meeting and beating the military’s requirements for abrasion resistance. The scope maintains a constant four inches of eye relief throughout its magnification range and an oversized and knurled adjustment knob makes finding the perfect power setting easy and fast, even with gloved hands. The VCOG is waterproof to 66 feet and its illumination electronics are Mil-Spec tough. Initially, the VCOG will be offered with seven different reticle choices, all of which are located in the first focal plane allowing the ballistic reticle to be used at any magnification. The segmented circle reticle with a centered crosshair can be matched with 175-grain 7.62, 55- and 77-grain 5.56, or 115-grain supersonic 300 BLK loads. The popular horseshoe/dot reticle is available in each of the 5.56 and 7.62 offerings. The red illuminated reticle is powered by a common AA battery, accessible underneath the objective or, with a lithium battery, it can deliver 700 continuous hours of run time at setting 4 of 6. A rheostat is located on the main tube, opposite the windage turret, and has an off position between each of its six brightness settings. An integral mount securely pairs the optic with any M1913 Picatinny rail and its height is perfect for flattop M16, M4, AR-15 and SR-25/AR-10-style rifles. At just 10”, the VCOG leaves plenty of rail space ahead of the objective for night vision or thermal intensifiers. www.trijicon.com.

TAR Ideal Concepts TL5PRO
The TL5PRO was developed by TAR Ideal Concepts in collaboration with the Special Forces and an array of military experts, designed to fulfil specific requirements and challenges met on the battlefield in the promise of enhancing combat effectiveness and reducing fratricide.

Due to increased IR signatures in combat, effective IFF is limited. I.e., Reflective tape, which lacks a distinct signal gets lost in the background and soldiers are susceptible to friendly fire. In addition, today’s enemy has access to night vision and uses it to identify IR signatures as a common tactic for attacking soldiers. Further challenges include the weight, cost and size of effective IFF technology.

The TL5PRO signals the soldier by Infra-Red or Visual Illumination for IFF. Unlike other markers, the TL5PRO does not require the use of night vision as a means to maintain invisibility from the enemy. The marker is equipped with two main modes; IR and Visible (the Visible mode includes 3 illuminating color options), both of which have adjustable intensity levels. The Low Intensity Level allows the operator to be completely undetectable from a distance of above 50 meters; it is also untraceable and may be used when communications are unavailable or when operating under radio silence, maximizing the covertness of soldiers on the ground.

The TL5PRO is lightweight (only 90 gr), rugged, flexible, splash resistant and durable. Charged by one AA or CR123 battery, the Marker can last up to 72 hours in various modes.

Designed to detect and identify friendly forces in enemy territory. The TL5PRO is combat proven and can be used for multiple applications to include Landing Strip; K9 Tracking; Ground Forces and Special Operations; Police and SAR. www.tarideal.com

Indo Defence is a Tri-Service defense show holding the combined Maritime, Air, and Land warfare military shows.  This 2010 event was the 4th Annual Indo Defence exposition and there were over 700 exhibitors from 38 countries with approximately 20,000 attendees from military groups and the trade.  There were a total of 480 plus companies in 17 national pavilions, and the attendees represented over 42 countries.  This year’s event had grown considerably from the 2008 event, which was held in large tent structures at the Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base.  The 2010 event was moved indoors at JIExpo, which was a much more suitable venue.

Pavilions for manufacturers from Singapore, Russia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Germany, Poland, South Korea, United States, The Netherlands, and the United Kingdom were prominent, and there were many more.  Regarding the quality of the attendees, Indo Defence managed to bring in the brass.  There were high ranking decision makers from many countries as well as the top personnel in the Indonesian military.  Reports from small arms manufacturers were that they had made many good contacts.  Small Arms Defense Journal can attest to that as we had brought thousands of copies of SADJ to the show, and by the second day, we were metering them out.  The enthusiasm for small arms related information in the various militaries attending was very high.

Like most defense shows today, there is a conference attached to the show, and Indo Defence is no exception.  The organizers managed to hit on all the basics that make for happy attendees: keynote speakers who can explain clearly what the needs of the Indonesian military community are; who can identify the priorities today; and try to show their view of future defense priorities.  It is difficult for the industrial complex to provide the necessary product and solutions to the military needs without having some idea of the direction they need to be addressing.  The conference had three faces – ground forces, air forces, and maritime forces.  Influential members of all groups were in attendance at the show.  Exhibitors were also invited to present papers and product announcements, and of course, the popular air show was performed overhead, including the RAAF Roulettes.

It takes a lot of work to stage a successful military show, and making a regional show attractive to the rest of the world shows that the diligence necessary is part of the promoter’s skill set.  Indo Defence has not failed to impress, and the three times we have attended we found many contacts and saw a lot of business being done by the vendors.  Likewise, attendees told us they were pleased with the contacts they were making in modernizing and maintaining their systems.

Armscor, the Arms Corporation of the Philippines, showed many of their civilian related firearms, as well as cross-over capability on modern combat shotguns including the M30 series; and many variations of the ever-popular 1911 series pistol. (www.armscor.com.ph)

Bumar Group presented their Beryl, Beryl Commando, and Mini-Beryl rifle systems. These are Kalashnikov based next-generation rifles in 5.56x45mm. Their PM series submachine guns and handguns were also discussed. (bumar.com)

The Cilas SLD 500 Surveillance and Sniper Detection Laser System is an innovative product from this 40 year old French company. The basic concept is that using a 360 degree panorama mount, the laser unit can detect optical systems that are actively deployed in the direction of the SLD 500 by using backscatter technology. Simply put, if sniper’s optics, surveillance optics, or opto-electronics are being pointed at the SLD 500 location, they will be identified and the high-definition camera in the system will give a clear location and picture of the threat. Essentially, this is a preventative system, as opposed to a shot locator, which requires there to be a round fired before that can operate. (www.cilas.com)

Cubic is one of the world’s leading combat training groups and their training simulator booth for small arms warfare was constantly busy. (www.cubic.com)

PT Dahana (Persero) is an Indonesia explosive manufacturing facility that concentrates on mining and constructions sectors, but has a large military crossover in blast effect bombs and grenade detonators. They have a full line of shaped charges, detcord, non-els, pentolite boosters, and their signature emulsion explosive, Dayagel. (www.dahana.com)

EOST, Electrical Optical Systems Company, is a South Korean based R&D group that was presenting their Thermal Imaging electronics. The TWS II (shown) is an optical 3x magnification unit with a 6x/12x electronic zoom. Field of view is 13.3 degrees diagonal, with a focus from 1 meter to infinity. This is an uncooled unit with an operating temperature range of -35C to +50C, and a 4 hour battery life. (www.eosystem.com)

Hanwah Corporation of South Korea had a modified Daewoo K2 piston operated 5.56mm rifle, as well as their new K12 7.62x51mm belt-fed machine gun. The K12 weighs 12 kg, with an overall length of 1,110mm, and a barrel length of 584.5mm. Rate of fire is 850-950 rpm. (http://english.hanwhacorp.co.kr/)

Pindad's SPR-3 is a dedicated 7.62x51mm bolt action sniping rifle with an effective range of 900 meters.

Pindad’s SPG-3 grenade machine gun uses standard 40x53mm ammunition like the MK19 or HK GMG. Tripod or vehicle mounted, the SPG-3 provides 2,200 meter range in a 33kg package. Rate of fire is 325-375rpm.