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FOCUS ON USMC STRANDED OffShORE

the art OF Krav Maga DEfENSE AgAINST COLLAR gRAB ATTACk

teSt tNM LOCkESTONE

INDUSTRIES 80% LOwER

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teSttNMTriple AughT Designrecon Ac pAnT

Direct Action® Ghost® is 3-day backpack for both patrol and advanced tactical duties. The pack features two hydration bladder pockets – one in the main compartment with center tube exit and additional in the zipped back part. D. A. Ghost® features external pocket with internal organizer attached to backpack via shockcords. This solution allows attaching e.g. rain gear or helmet between pouch and backpack. Laser-cutted system compatible with MOLLE/PALS makes the backpack not only fully modular, but also still maintains low profile look. Suspension system is based on comfortable S-profiled shoulder straps and internal stiffener in the back. Wide, removable webbing-based hip belt allows better distribution of weight when pack is loaded heavily. Made of durable 500D Cordura® nylon fabric with water resistant coating.

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RUAG Ammotec [email protected] www.ruag.com

Our products enable the highly effective combat ing of the most varied targets in all situations.

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RZ_Ins_SWISS P_210x297_en_V2.indd 1 26.02.13 11:30

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL EDITORIAL EDITORIAL EDITORIAL EDITORIALE

To fighT and conquerin all our baTTlesis noT supreme excellence

supreme excellenceconsisTs in breakingThe enemy’s resisTancewiThouT fighTing.

FOLLOW US EVERY MONTH ON:

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sun Tzu

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL EDITORIAL EDITORIAL EDITORIAL EDITORIALE

To fighT and conquerin all our baTTlesis noT supreme excellence

supreme excellenceconsisTs in breakingThe enemy’s resisTancewiThouT fighTing.

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4EDITORIAL 8NEWS

16FOCUS ONUSMC Stranded OffShOre

20COLD FIREfIre SUPPreSSIOn tOOL

26TEST BY TNMdIreCt aCtIOn® GhOSt

34FOCUS ONaIr WeaPOnS…taLOn IS CertIfIed

38TEST BY TNMLOCkeStOne IndUStrIeS80% LOWer reCeIverS

48FOCUS ONSOMaLI PIrate

58TEST BY TNMLIne Of fIre taCtICaL

64ThE ART OF KRAv MAgAdefenSe aGaInStCOLLar Grab attaCk

68TEST BY TNMtrIPLe aUGht deSIGnreCOn aC Pant

76SITUATION REPORTafGhanIStan’S InSUrGenCy after the tranSItIOn

86TEST BY TNMInteLISCOPe PrO & aPP

92hOT POINTCOUnter-terrOrISM:kUrdS and the LOSt PrOvInCe

96WEB SITE

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TNMALWAYS ON FRONT LINE

Military - Law Enforcement - SecurityNUMBER 16 - 2014www.tacticalnewsmagazine.eu Editor-in-ChiefMirko [email protected]

Advertising Sales Manager & Public RelationDanilo [email protected]

Art director Matteo [email protected]

Graphic echocommunication.eu

Editorial staffDaniel Sharon IsraelRobert Shaw UKDaniel Wmann GermanyRoger Higby USAPaolo Grandis ItalyJacopo Guarino ItalyPeter Capyo BelgiumSteph Macniven UKGiuseppe Marino ItalyNorbert Ciano GermanyMarco Bandioli ItalyTinus Etsebeth South AfricaYann Remersaro ArgentinaMateusz Kanigowski PolandWade Morrell USAAustin Bay USAGiannis Nikitas GreeceRyan Houtekamer CanadaJody Lewis USAChristian Nellemann NorwayJoseph D.R. OLeary USADanilo Amelotti ItalySteve Coulston USADavid Thorson USAChris Tran USAMichael Shropshire USAJarred Taylor USA

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Partner:

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the editor is prohibited.

Russia carried out a successful test-launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile, news agencies reported citing the defence ministry, amid a standoff between Moscow and the West over Ukraine. Interfax and ITAR-TASS quoted the defence ministry as saying a successful test of the RS-12M Topol ICBM had been carried out from Russia’s Kapustin Yar rocket launch site near the Caspian Sea at 9:08 pm Moscow time (1708 GMT). The missile hit its target in the Sary Shagan ballistic missile test range that Russia leases in Kazakhstan, it said. “The purpose of the launch was to test a prospective warhead of intercontinental ballistic missiles,” Interfax quoted defence ministry spokesman Igor Yegorov as saying, without providing further details. Russia reportedly carried out previous tests in December and March of the RS-12M Topol, a road-

mobile missile first put into service in the 1980s and then repeatedly modified. It is referred to as the SS-25 Sickle by NATO and has a reported maximum range of 10,000 kilometres (6,200 miles).

Russia earlier this month test-launched several ballistic missions during military exercises overseen by President Vladimir Putin. The tests have been conducted amid a continued standoff between Russia and the West over Ukraine, where Moscow seized the Crimean peninsula in March and pro-Russian rebels have taken control of parts of the east of the country. Tensions seem to have eased in recent days however, ahead of a presidential vote on Sunday aimed at bringing Ukraine out of crisis.By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Russia conducts test-launch of ballistic missile

us to announce afghanistan tRoops levels, intent to WithdRaW in 2016 US President Barack Obama recently announced that the US military presence in Afghanistan will draw down to about 9,800 from the current 32,000 by the start of 2015, according a senior administration official. While the combat mission will officially be over at the end of this year, those 9,800 troops will focus narrowly on two central missions after 2014 — training Afghan forces and supporting counterterrorism operations against what remains of al-Qaida in the country. One senior administration official said the counterterrorism mission will be focused “against the remnants of al-Qaida,” but no mention was made of the Taliban or other insurgent groups, who have taken a much greater role in battling NATO and Afghan forces for influence and territory over the past 13 years of combat. In testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee in March, Marine Corps Gen. Joseph Dunford — commander of all NATO troops in Afghanistan — said that while the power of al-Qaida in Afghanistan has largely been blunted, “extremist networks have now expanded in the country,” and “increased cooperation and coordination can be seen between al-Qaida and other extremists like the Haqqani Network, Tahrik-e Taliban Pakistan and Lashkar-e-Taiba.” Meanwhile, his assessment was that the Taliban insurgency does not represent “an existential threat to the government of Afghanistan or to the Afghan security forces.” The exclusion of the Taliban from administration statements Tuesday may reflect Dunford’s assessment, along with the fact that the Taliban is not a globally-focused organization and as such poses no risk to Americans outside of Afghanistan and Pakistan.Dunford has consistently advocated for 8,000 to 12,000 American troops backed by 2,000 forces from NATO allies to remain in country past 2014, so the White House announcement will split the difference. None of this is set in stone, however. “We will only sustain a military presence after 2014 if the Afghan government signs the Bilateral Security Agreement [BSA]” the administration official said, adding that “assuming a BSA is signed, at the beginning of 2015, we will have 9,800 US service members in different parts of the country, together with our NATO allies and other partners. By the end of 2015, we would reduce that presence by roughly half, consolidating US troops in Kabul and on Bagram Air Field. And one year later, by the end of 2016, we will draw down to a normal embassy presence with a security assistance office in Kabul, as we have done in Iraq.” By PAUL McLEARY

taiWan holds computeR WaR games against china attackTaiwan launched computerized war games featuring its newly acquired AH-64 Apache helicopters helping counter a simulated attack by a Chinese aircraft carrier group, officials and media said.

The five-day drill, part of the island’s biggest annual military maneuvers to be held in September, is aimed at testing the island’s defense capability against the fast expanding military might of the giant neighbor, defense ministry officials said, declining to go into details.A scenario of the drill was attacks on the east by a Chinese aircraft carrier group, Taiwan’s Apple Daily said. With military deployments focused on the west coast facing mainland China, the east is relatively vulnerable to any Chinese invasion, analysts say.The drill for the first time features weaponry acquired last year, including the latest variant of US-made Apaches which military gurus say is the world’s most lethal attack helicopter, P-3C submarine hunting aircraft, and an upgraded version of Taiwan’s Indigenous Defence Fighter, the paper said.Tensions across the Taiwan Strait have eased since President Ma Ying-jeou’s China-friendly administration came to power in 2008 on a platform of beefing up trade and tourism links. He was re-elected in January 2012.But Beijing has still not ruled out the use of force against the island should it declare independence, even though Taiwan has ruled itself for more than six decades since their split in 1949 at the end of a civil war.The People’s Liberation Army launched ballistic missiles into waters near Taiwan during a series of live-fire drills in 1995 and 1996, aiming to deter the Taiwanese from voting for Lee Teng-hui, the independence-minded president then seeking another four-year term. China halted its saber-rattling only after the United States sent two aircraft carrier battle groups to waters near the island. By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

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24 countRies to take paRt in JoRdan WaRgamesMore than 13,000 troops from 24 countries are to take part in the annual “Eager Lion” military exercise in Jordan, state news agency Petra said Sunday.It said “ground, air and naval forces comprising a total of more than 13,000” troops are to be deployed during the May 25-June 10 wargames, with “around 24 countries” taking part. The maneuvers are “aimed at tackling terrorism and insurrection” and to prepare armies to “develop their capacity to plan and carry out joint operations,” the agency added. Some 8,000 troops from 19 countries including the United States, Britain, Egypt, France, Iraq, Turkey and Saudi Arabia took part in last year’s “Eager Lion” exercises in the kingdom. Jordan borders Syria, where a three-year-old civil war has killed 150,000 people and displaced millions, with nearly 500,000 taking refuge in the kingdom.

Washington has voiced concern over the effects of the war on Syria’s neighbors, particularly its strategic ally Jordan, and it has sent more than 1,000 US troops to the kingdom. By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

sWeden may fund gRipen-e even Without inteRnational paRtneRThe Swedish government has signaled it is ready to roll back a stipulation in its 2012 agreement with Saab that required an international partner to be in place before funding could continue for the Gripen-E project.The government’s new, softer line, reinforced by the Ministry of Defense, puts the Gripen-E project into the category of “too big to fail.” In the 2012 Gripen-E project agreement with Saab, the MoD stipulated that it held the right to rescind funding if an international partner could not be found to share costs and develop export markets for the aircraft. The Swedish state has already invested more than $300 million in the Gripen-E development program. Sweden had long pinned its Gripen-E international partner hopes on Switzerland, but this avenue of cooperation was closed on May 18 when the Swiss, by a 53.4 percent referendum vote, rejected a government plan to spend $3.5 billion on acquiring 22 aircraft from Saab. Saab has now turned its attention to Brazil. Sweden continues to negotiate a broad industry partnership to produce an initial 36 Gripen-Es for the Brazilian Air Force in cooperation with the country’s aerospace sector. Under this industrial program, Saab is building an aircraft production facility outside Sao Paulo. “With Switzerland gone, the focus has naturally shifted to Brazil. The government has until the end of 2014 to demonstrate that the Gripen-E can find an export partner, otherwise the issue will revert to parliament for debate and possibly a vote on the Gripen-E’s future,” said Peter Hultqvist, chairman of the Parliamentary Committee On Defense. The international partnership agreement offered by Sweden to Brazil is designed to provide strong economic benefits for all parties covering design, production, operation and lifecycle maintenance, said Karin Enström, Sweden’s defense minister. “As I see it, the Gripen-E project’s future will require the parliament to give the government freedom of action. We need to increase our defense capability and the new Gripen is the most cost-effective way to do it. Global developments in recent months have shown that we really need Gripen E, and there is broad political support for the aircraft. Our air-defense capability, and the needs of our Air Force, must be prioritized,” said Enström. Negotiations on an industrial agreement tied to a Gripen-E contract with Brazil are expected to be completed in December, said Hultqvist. “This gives the government some time, but not a lot, to turn matters around and lift confidence in the Gripen-E project. Such negotiations are always uncertain. It should be remembered that Saab invested 10 years negotiating a Gripen sale to Switzerland, and as it turns out, it has no sales to show for it,” Hultqvist said. The Swedish government clearly wants to proceed with the Gripen-E project regardless of finding production and export partners, said Åsa Romson, the Green Party’s spokesperson on industry and defense.“It would appear that the stipulation in the 2012 agreement means less and less, and was added to give the government an exit plan of last resort. The Gripen-E has taken on the stature of a project that is now too big to fail, and it seems it will continue with or without an international partner behind it. Given that Switzerland is no longer an option our party would rather see the project end here,” said Romson. Saab believes in the long-term potential of the Gripen-E project, and its “development will continue,” said group Chairman Marcus Wallenberg. Under a framework agreement signed in February 2013, Saab is contracted to deliver 60 Gripen-E aircraft to the Swedish Air Force. This could rise to 80 when the defense allocation is increased significantly after 2015 to accommodate an expanded 40-year Gripen-E program.

Militia fighters stole hundreds of American-supplied automatic weapons and other equipment in a raid on a Libyan base where the US was training local forces, bringing an abrupt end to the secretive program, a report said. Elite US troops have been tasked since last year with covertly forming local counterterrorism units in Libya, Mauritania, Niger and Mali, part of US efforts to widen the war against al-Qaida affiliates in Africa, The New York Times reported, citing American officials.

It has been financed in part with millions of dollars in classified Pentagon spending, the Times said, and involves instructing and equipping “handpicked” commandos in the four countries, with the hope the teams will eventually be able to take on fighters like Boko Haram. But the initiative has endured several setbacks, notably in Libya, where the training was suddenly cut short in August last year when a group of armed militia fighters overpowered a small Libyan guard force at a training camp outside the capital Tripoli, the newspaper said. As well as automatic weapons, the fighters seized night-vision goggles and vehicles, it added, saying that American instructors were promptly sent home. US officials are now looking for a more secure site to get the program going again. “But last summer’s debacle and the political upheaval in Libya since then have caused American officials to rethink how they select local personnel,” the Times said.

The American trainers had issued the Libyans M4 automatic rifles and Glock pistols, and the Libyans were responsible for safeguarding them at a warehouse. But all were taken in the pre-dawn raid on Aug. 4, believed carried out by a local militia that overpowered the Libyan guards. The American trainers were not at the training camp at the time because they would usually stay at a nearby villa, leading to suspicions that the theft was an “inside job.” Much of the equipment was later recovered, but some news reports suggested at least some of the weapons had gone on sale on the black market, the report said.

“The take-away here is they’re going to take a lot more adult supervision to make sure the checks and balances are in place, so you don’t have outside militia taking over,” the Times quoted a former American Special Operations officer as saying.The program in Mali has failed to get off the ground as the new civilian government struggles to recover from a coup.

The Pentagon, meanwhile, is spending nearly $15 million in Niger on a new counterterrorism unit there, the Times said, and $29 million in Mauritania.

libya militia stole us Weapons in Raid

AROUND THE WORLD

only FOR GOOD GUYS

TNM ••• 12

For years multi-tool users could choose from two distinct options when it came to a “one-hand-operable” multi-tool: one-hand-opening pliers OR one-hand-opening blades. Today, Leatherman has taken these two well-loved ideas and fused them into the first ever, 100% one-hand-operable multi-tool, the Leatherman OHT. This industry-first tool features spring-loaded pliers and wire-cutters so you don’t tire your hand adjusting and readjusting your grip. Handles with visual imprints of the tool beneath make for quick identification. A lifesaving strap cutter and oxygen bottle wrench, threading for common-size cleaning rods and much more make this a one-handed workhorse of a tool.

www.leatherman.com

• Spring-action Needlenose Pliers• Spring-action Regular Pliers• Spring-action 154CM Replaceable

Wire Cutters• Spring-action 154CM Replaceable

Hard-wire Cutters• 420HC Knife• 420HC Serrated Knife• Phillips Screwdriver• Small Screwdriver• Medium Screwdriver• Large Screwdriver• Saw• Strap Cutter• Can Opener• Bottle Opener• Oxygen Tank Wrench• Threaded for an #8-32 Cleaning Rod

Attachment

Leatherman Oht...eaSY tO USe anD hOStS 16 DIFFerent tOOLS FOr the taSK.

www.fms.co.il www.camero-tech.com

The new high performance, lightweight ballistic shell is designed to stop rifle rounds such as the 5.56x45mm, 7.62x39mm, 7.62x51mm, lead core cartridges and Tokarev 7.62mm pistols steel core rounds Constructed from specially designed High Performance Polyethylene (HPPE) Unidirectional (UD) materials, the new shell offers superior ballistic protection. At a weight of 1250 grams, it completely stops 5.56mm and 7.62mm cartridges and 7.62mm pistol steel core rounds. The new shell fully complies with the requirements of MIL-STD-662F and meets NIJ Ballistic standards. The helmet is chemical and water resistant. To allow for simple painting of the complete helmet the shells can be supplied with a thin aramid cover.

FmSSince 1986 FMS Enterprises Migun Ltd. has pioneered, developed and manufactured raw materials for advanced ballistic protection and armor products for personal and vehicle protection. The company was established in Israel and currently sells its products in more than 40 countries worldwide. FMS is a public company listed on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.

FmSIntrODUce next GeneratIOn heLmet

The Xaver™800 is a portable, high-performance imaging system, providing a true 3D image of objects behind walls. The system enables quick location of people hidden by walls and barriers, and tracking of their movement patterns and orientation. It enables simultaneous detection of both static and living objects - as well as information about room dimensions and major infrastructure elements. Rich 3D imaging allows users to easily grasp the situation from multiple angles, enabling effective planning.

camerOFounded in 2004, and headquartered in Israel, Camero (Camero-Tech Ltd.) is a pioneer and leader in the development and marketing of radar-based imaging systems. Camero’s resources draw on decades of experience providing solutions to major government and commercial customers. The company has a solid track-record of technological innovation and timely solution delivery to its worldwide customers, with whom it works closely. The Xaver™ line of Through-Wall Imaging systems has become the solution of choice for top military and law enforcement agencies around the world. The company is part of the SK Group, a leading global defense and security group that includes Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), Meprolight, Israel Shipyards, and others.

xaver™800pOrtabLe, hIGh-perFOrmance ImaGInG SYStem

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American Technologies Network Corp., makers of military, law enforcement, security and outdoor night vision and thermal applications, introduce the Night Scout VX; ATN’s newest addition to affordable, quality night vision devices for camping, hiking, birding, boating or home defense. The Night Scout VX night vision binocular is compact and lightweight and features ATN’s proprietary Total Darkness IR System. Even if the user is in total darkness, with the aid of the infrared illuminator, the Night Scout VX cuts through the darkness providing a bright clear image. Using a dual image tube system that provides for depth perception, the user experiences the visual world around them just as they would by using a pair of binoculars. Several image tube configurations are available for any budget or performance demand.

FeatureS• 5x magnification• Easy-to-use digital controls• Multi-coated, all-glass optics• Long-range Infrared Illuminator• Water and fog resistant• Gen 1• Low battery indicator• 60 hours battery life on 1x3 V CR123A battery• 9” x 6” x 3” in size• 3.3 lbs.

nIGhtScOUt vx

the nOrth Face WaterprOOF DaYpacK The North Face Waterproof Daypack is a new water tight 34.5 L pack for hauling moisture susceptible gear, electronics and valuables. In the city, on jungle marathons, at sea or summit, protect delicate kit from humidity, moisture or full on river dunkings in this generously sized taped seamed pack with a waterproof roll top drybag styled closure. An external mesh pocket with a PU zipper keeps smaller items to hand. Cameras, satphones, medical supplies and critical supplies like food and cigars for celebrating summit successes will find a reliably waterproof dry haven in The North Face Waterproof Daypack.

Feature• Fully taped seams• External mesh pocket with PU zipper• For absolutely critical cargo, a bombproof, fully seam-

taped daypack with a dry bag–style, roll-top closure for total waterproofness. Waterproof pack body with roll-top closure

www.atncorp.com

www.thenorthface.com

nIGhtScOUt vx

SOD Gear Spectre cOmbat WaIStpacK The Spectre Combat Waistpack is a small waistpack that can be setted up as a real fire platform. Made in Cordura 1000 this waistpack has a lot of inner compartments for pistol mags/M4 mags/lightsticks/tactical torch/multitools/compass and many documents.

The unique stretch pouch is made to work in conjunction with our Spectre Stretch Mag Pouches or our Internal Stretch Pistol Pouch. With this solutions this waistpack can be used a real hip pistol holster or a hip mag pouch.

This waistpack is compatible with all the MOLLE platform removing the waist band and can be used in conjunction with our Spectre Armoured Tight Rig to get a more versatile lateral configuration.

ZerO tOLerance 0300 Razor sharp stainless S-30V blade with tungsten DLC coating. 3-D machined G-10 handle in matte black. Matte black titanium frame lock design. Includes SpeedSafe, ambidextrous opening system and a quad mounting clip system for tip-up, tip-down, left or right handed clip carry. The ZT 0300 has a lanyard hole in the 3d machined handle. Rock solid tactical folding knife from Zero Tolerance Knives.

• BLaDe SIZe: 3 3/4” • tOtaL SIZe: 8 5/8” • CLOSeD SIZe: 5 1/16”• BLaDe MaterIaL: Stainless S30-V Steel with Tungsten DLC Coating.• HaNDLe: 3-D Machined G-10, Matte Black and Titanium Back• LINerS: Matte Black Titanium• WeIGHt: 8 oz www.ztknives.us

www.sodgear.com

FOCUS ON FOCUS ON FOCUS ON FOCUS ON FOCUS ON FOCUS ON FOCUS ON FOCUS ON FOCUS ON FOCUS ON FOCUS ON FOCUS ON

USMC Stranded OffshoreTNM ••• 16


USMC Stranded OffshoreTNM ••• 17

TEXT BY strategypage.com

Some 400 AAV7s are already

scheduled for refurbishing, which

will begin in 2018

and complete in the early 2020


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The U.S. Marine Corps is upgrading its 1970s era AAV7 amphibious armored vehicles. In addition to better protection the elderly AAV7s will be refurbished so they can remain in service another decade or

more. The marines never expected the AAV7s to last this long but several attempts to develop a replacement have come up short. Thus the need to extend the life of their thousand AAV7 amphibious armored vehicles. These entered service in the 1970s and are falling apart. Moreover, some two thirds of the AAV7s saw service in Iraq, where they got as much use in two months as they normally did in two years of peacetime operations. Some 400 AAV7s are already scheduled for refurbishing, which will begin in 2018 and complete in the early 2020. Thus the AAV7s can still be used into the 2030s, or whenever a permanent replacement can be found.

The 29 ton AAV7s has a crew of four (driver, commander, gunner and rear crewman) and carries 25 combat ready

marines as passengers. The vehicle is armed with a 40mm automatic grenade launcher and a 12.7mm machine-gun. Top land speed is 72 kilometers an hour on roads, 32 off road and 13 in water.

Back in 2011 the marines gave up on high-speed (sea skimming) amphibious assault vehicles. It then turned to a new Amphibious Combat vehicle (ACV) to replace the AAV7s. DARPA (the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) was called in to help design the new vehicle. This may sound either very innovative or very desperate, and in reality it was both. In part because the marines recently blew three billion dollars in an unsuccessful attempt (the EFV or Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle) to design and develop a high-speed amphibious vehicle and partly because that failure made it clear that some original thinking was required. The $12 million ACV was the EFV without most of the expensive stuff that didn’t work. In effect, the ACV was be a 21st century version of


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the AAV7, optimized to pass all its development tests and get into service as quickly as possible. DARPA quickly did its job but the resulting ACV was still more expensive ($12 million) than the shrinking marine budget could handle.

The marines have another replacement vehicle projects as well. The MPC (Marine Personnel Carrier) is a $4.5 million wheeled, amphibious armored vehicle. This would be similar to the Stryker but a bit larger and modified for amphibious operations. This project is proceeding because it is low-risk (in the technology department) and the marines need some kind of armored vehicle to replace AAV7s that are dying of old age. The marines do not want to be reminded of the EFV. But they cannot afford the ACV and the MPC, while affordable, is not as amphibious as the AAV7. The marines apparently felt they could get by with half as many new amphibious armored vehicles because future wars are likely to be more dependent on delivering

troops by air or moving them around in armored hummers. While there was some thought of dispensing entirely with vehicles like this, which were first used in 1943, more traditionalist minds prevailed. That may change, especially since the cheaper MPC is more likely to survive the budget battles than the ACV.

In retrospect, the marines could have just built the EFV without the high-speed capability but too late they discovered that the technology simply did not exist yet to make the high-speed capability workable. The budget situation is grim, leaving the usually unstoppable Marine Corps running into an immovable object and improvising as best they can. The marines have asked the navy to develop a high speed amphibious craft (or “connector”) to get MPCs to shore quickly but the navy budget is also shrinking and probably unable to handle the cost of developing and building the connector.

COLD FIRE COLD FIRE COLD FIRE COLD FIRE COLD FIRE COLD FIRE COLD FIRE COLD FIRE COLD FIRE COLD FIRE COLD FIRE COLD FIRE

TNM ••• 20


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During any operation carrieD out both from Law enforcement anD miLitary units, fire is aLways a possibLe enemy. aLthough often Left as one of the Last possibLe probLem, fire can be the most Dangerous anD mission affecting subject. Let’s imagine if During a britching operation in orDer to reLease an hostage from its/her hostage taker the Door or some insiDe furniture get fire after the bLowing… weLL the operation wouLD be seriousLy compromise, to the point that probabLy the intervention unit, the hostage anD the hostage taker wouLD suffer severe injuries form that event (if not perish). same scenario During any at operation in airpLane, trains, bus etc, or in case of a ieD (any kinD) etc.

for this reason very often During such operation there is aLways some operator equippeD with fire suppression tooL, that anyway have severaL Limitation in voLume, power, anD of course agiLity.


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Blaising corporation / cold fire se-Defense saw an essential and immediate need for mobile fire suppression on the battlefield and in the line of tactical operations and began to brainstorm

about four years ago. while carrying a line of product called cold fire, they worked with the manufacturer to develop a “military “Defense” blend” agent that would meet and surpass military specifications for a liquid agent fire suppressor. in conjunction with cold fire se-Defense, speer operational technologies has assisted in pushing forward the product line into the us military forces. cold fire is epa approved, snap listed, uL approved wetting agent for class a & b fires. although not being listed for suppressing metal fires such as magnesium and titanium, it works better than anything else on the market. it super cools hot surfaces on contact, leaving no stain, residue or harm to the environment. Not only does it super cool surfaces but it creates a thermal heat barrier against the flames for a limited time, even human skin. YES, EVEN SKIN. (example: if someone is trapped in a burning vehicle, you can actually spray the individual in

the vehicle down with the agent to buy them precious seconds while trying to extract them) while taking the original proprietary formulation of the raw agent of cold fire and adding other ingredients to achieve a -50f (-45c) freeze resistance, the Defense blend was born and branded. the formulation is a premixed solution that pours directly into the pressurized container being used to deploy the agent. (example: 6 liter pressurized vessel would require a 6 liter charge of agent)

with this plant based, epa approved agent in mind cold fire se-Defense began to develop various deployment applications geared to defense related customers and tactical operators. with hours of research and development the trunk carrier systems were brought to life, the backpack delivery systems were brought to life and various other items that have been proven to save lives. the thought process was to make equipment that was fool proof mechanically, maintenance friendly and simple to use. all of our devices (besides the compact aerosol) are self refillable with compressed air from a air compressor or nitrogen source just like airing up a tire on


TNM ••• 23

a vehicle. we’ve gotten the product into the hands of master breacher instructors cutting through steel walls with torches, then using the proprietary formulated Defense blend of cold fire to cool the once “white hot” metal surfaces to bare hand handling mode within seconds of application, clearing the black smoke ridden room into a more visible arena of work space and finally securing the premises with no worry of fire or re-flash. we’ve found the backpack delivery system (bDs) in the 6 liter size has been effective on narcotic raids where acetones and other flammable agents are used to produce methamphetamine related drugs. we’ve

heard that federal agencies that have purchased to bDs units have had amazing success with the product in various applications as well.

if we can provide a means of decreasing mortality

on the battlefield due to fire related

incidents from ieD’s and attacks on our tactical groups from molotovs and such, we feel obligated to provide this life saving product to anyone we can get it in front of. today we received word from a group in chile that they are in immediate need of a way to protect themselves from molotov cocktails. they have nothing!


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The CHASE system is a lightweight, compact stretcher system that weighs less than 2 lbs, made of ripstock materials with a load capacity of 1500 lbs


TNM ••• 25

the bDs system is totally one of a kind and is not your normal rucksack style backpack. it’s specifically built and designed to house the delivery system cylinder and to accommodate an ambidextrous user by porting the hose sprayer and assembly to the left or right of the backpack. the spray handle uniquely retracts back to the backpack if deployed and is not in use any longer. we’ve successfully suppressed and instantly cooled a 54” wide tire soaked in fuel with only 2 liters of the 6 liters available within 27 seconds, leaving the tire cool to the touch. we allowed the tire to pre-burn for over 2 minutes before approaching suppression with the backpack system.

from backpack delivery systems available in 2 liter, 4 liter and 6 liter sizes, trunk kit carrier systems that rip away from the trunk of a vehicle and from aerosol deployment devices, we feel honored to bring the product to those that serve and protect us. this product gives the end user (through training) more confidence and also in turn protects them more than any type of traditional suppression product could ever dream of providing.

Cold Fire SE-Defense developed molle based carrier systems (trunk mount carriers) for our 2 liter and 6 liter units that sit inside the carrier, are secured with straps and hook and loop velcro lapping. this unit has a rigid plastic base on the rear of the carrier itself that is installed to a hard surface with screws and washers. the rigid plastic base has industrial hook and loop velcro that adheres to the back of the carrier allowing a rapid grab and go deployment use via the handle attached to the side of the carrier. both sides of the carrier have molle webbing to attach other kits or gear if needed, such as our chase stretcher system. the chase system is a lightweight, compact stretcher system that weighs less than 2 lbs, made of ripstock materials with a load capacity of 1500 lbs. its available in 18” x 84”, 26” x 84” and 56” x 84”. of course the larger you go, the weight increases. the can be used for long rope rescue, storm stricken areas where traditional pole litters are useless, two man drag, four man tote, etc. we’ve had the privledge to be on canada’s Discovery channel showing it off as well as cold fire trunk kits.

see the attached spec sheets for info as well as the pics. use any videos you’d like. i’ll attach my favorites.i’d like to add that we build and design “active shooter

response” kits for individuals, law enforcement and corporate clients to react and not sit in place. the kits allow them to not only keep the bad guy out of the area but also to treat medical needs, suppress fires and protect themselves with optional less lethal devices.

TEST BY TNM TEST BY TNM TEST BY TNM TEST BY TNM TEST BY TNM TEST BY TNM TEST BY TNM TEST BY TNM TEST BY TNM


TNM ••• 27

TEXT - PHOTO Danilo Amelotti

When I joIn the ItalIan army In 1989, the mIlItary rucksack Was a not really bIg bag, WIth just tWo backpack shoulder straps and maybe a supportIve frame on the back, the rucksack Was an easy small (more or less dependIng on the IssuIng natIon) and lIght bag, able to be fIlled WIth not very much stuff.

by the time, and specially due to the equipment required in our missions, the rucksack started to grow in dimension up to become able to carry over 60 l, with several compartment and additional pockets/small bags.

a good features of the new rucksack to that time, was to have a separate little bag able to carry the radio or all the equipment needed for a short time mission (as an instance of short recognition), but, due to the fact that it was anyway part of a big rucksack, that small bag was uncomfortable and not very well designed. furthermore, due to the overall weight of the rucksack,


The Direct Action Ghost is a backpack made in 500D Cordura nylon fabric with water resistant coating.


TNM ••• 29

there where the general tendency to leave it in the

base!!!

the dimension and the general weight of such rucksack in combination with the new operations’ requirements pushed all armed forces to look for a smaller rucksack, able to carry equipment for a maximum of three day mission, and to be implemented in the general soldier equipment. that time started the era of the so identified “three-day backpack for patrol and/or advance tactical duties”.

this rucksack should have been small, therefore capable to host max 30l space, light, therefore not over 2,5kg weight, and able to carry also heavy equipment like radios, ammunition, or other stuff.

by the time, all worldwide producers have made many, but what made the real difference between one to another has been the ability to be fully modular, thus able to fit extra pockets/bags, become very small when needed

or able to carry a wide spectrum of equipments. furthermore durability and resistance to all kind of stress and climate conditions have been strongly pursued. of course, due to the extreme modularity, such rucksack/backpack are used also by law enforcement, security people and civilians that where and are looking for reliable small backpack.

for me, as former specops and actual trainer, a good three-day pack is a must have in order to be able to carry all my third line equipment required in my daily activities, thus my research for better one have never end. at today, I believe that helikon-tex with its direct action ghost backpack hit almost all nowadays requirement in fact of three-days backpack.

I got the opportunity to test it for a long period of time (over 2 months) and let also some of my former colleague form Italian specops army testing it. generally speaking, all of us remain very well satisfied by its skills and comfort.


CHARATTERISTICSAND TECHNICAL DATA

the direct action ghost is a backpack made in 500d cordura nylon fabric with water resistant coating. It has a capacity of 28+3,5 liters, so I would say well enough for these famous three-days activities.

Its dimension is 52x30x18cm for a weight of only 1890g.

the back features two hydration bladder pockets - one in the main compartment with center tube exit, and additional in the zipped back part.

both pockets can be easily adopted for carrying multi band radio device, or notebook (15”). two front pockets


TNM ••• 31

of direct action ghost fit small essential and personal belongings (i.e. compass, documents, mobile, gps etc.). additional site pockets can carry small and/or flat items, (such as skis, ax, antennas etc.) after unzipping fit standard us canteen.

direct action ghost features external pocket with internal organizer attached to backpack via shock cords. the solution allows attaching part of the personal equipment (such us helmet, sleeping mats or others) between pouch and backpack. the outer pouch can be detached and either used separately or mount to any equipment via molle/pals system. direct action ghost, feature laser-cut system compatible

with molle/pals, which not only provide a fully modularity, but also help to maintain the low profile look. the suspension system is based on comfortable s-profiled shoulder straps and internal stiffener in the back. Wide, removable webbing-based hip belt allows better distribution of weight when pack is loaded heavily.

TNM TEST AND CoNSIDERATIoNS.

We have been testing the backpack along two months of activities. I have to admit that both my colleagues and me have been very happy about the rucksack. generally speaking ghost resulted very comfortable in every use we had done. during tactical activities ghost resulted to be small enough

to be carried without any kind of problem especially concerning the tactical environment where having a good rucksack means lower the chances to be spotted by the enemy during all movement to and from the possible target. the extreme versatility of the rucksack has been one of the success key of the test, in fact thanks to the molle system present in any part of the backpack, any operator have been able to adapt ghost to his preferences and needs with out problems, therefore providing a full confidence in the use of it.

but also during the normal daily routine the rucksack demonstrate to be perfectly tailored. meanwhile I use the backpack to carry my daily equipment (In instance the shooting

During tactical activities Ghost resulted to be small enough to be carried without any kind of problem



TNM ••• 33

equipment), I detached the external pocket and use it in place of my normal pouch. the pockets present in the backpack and the pouch allowed me to perfectly distribute my equipment, optimizing the space therefore allowing me to carry all needed equipment.

In order to test the direct action ghost I provide to it three main tests as follow:

1)I filled the backpack with rocks, up to reach an overall weight of 45 kg and walk in the wood line for about 4 hours!! the ghost behaves very well. I did not note any failure of the seams or zippers, and although the heavy load, the suspension system remained comfortable and able to well distribute the load on my back.

2) since one of my favorite activities during winter is backcountry ski, I tested the rucksack side pocket with my skies and other mountaineering equipment. again the backpack behave well: with the in-place laces and the use of some extra others (well connected using the molle system) I was able to safely move also with the long skies and walk up and down from a steep hill with no problem.

3) the last test was water resistance: although ghost is not specifically designed for water activities, I left it out in the rain for one full day. the evening I open the bag and although some humidity penetrated in the bag from its zips, the equipment inside was generally dry! I would anyway always suggest to pack the equipment with waterproof bags.

FINAL CoNSIDERATIoNS

direct action ghost demonstrates to be a very valuable and perfectly sized three-day backpack.

the choice to distribute around all bag the laser-cut molle system have been surely successful, allowing to the end-user the freedom of setting, therefore amplifying the spectrum of possible customers. What did not convince me was the molle system in the pouch, which resulted to be not in line with the molle configuration on the rucksack. although it is not necessary to anchor the pouch to the backpack with the use of molle, I would have like to have this opportunity. I also had some minor problems with the

shock cord and its closing system. It was working well but I found some difficulties in reassembling it after removing to use the pouch separately form the bag. I believe that in a cold environment I would have had some problem in the reassemble of it, thus probably replacing the shock cord locking system with a simple knot.

generally speaking I am very well satisfy by this bag, and I would personally recommend it to all my former and future colleagues.


Air Weapons… Talon Is CertifiedTEXT BY strategypage.com


Air Weapons… Talon Is Certified

TNM ••• 35

The U.S. Army recently certified the Talon 70mm laser guided missile as compatible with the AH-64 helicopter gunship. The Talon can be fired from existing M260 seven tube or M261 nineteen tube

launchers. These launchers are also used on the AH-6 and OH-58 light scout helicopters. Talon was developed by Raytheon in an effort financed by the UAE (United Arab Emirates) and the resulting weapon, Talon, was ready for sale in 2010 and configured for use by UAE AH-64 helicopter gunships. So far the only user has been the UAE, for its own AH-64s. But with the U.S. Army certification it will be easier to get other AH-64 users to consider adopting Talon.Talon, like other 70mm laser guided missiles, is compatible with existing laser designators and aircraft equipped to use Hellfire missiles. The big advantage of all these 70mm missiles is that each is one fourth the weight of a Hellfire, and one about a third the cost. That means AH-64s burn less fuel carrying them, and the 70mm missile is as effective as a Hellfire in destroying most of the small targets Hellfire is used against. But there are already many similar weapons available for this and few nations want to add what they consider a redundant weapon system.

Back in 2010 the U.S. Marine Corps adopted a similar weapon, the AKWS II (Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System) kits for its own gunships. The marines bought kits to convert some of the 100,000 70mm unguided rockets they had to laser guided ones. In 2013 the marines bought over 20,000 newly manufactured

AKWS II missiles. This was the first large purchase of 70mm guided missiles, after a decade of sales efforts by several manufacturers. The marines arm their AH-1W helicopter gunships with the guided 70mm rockets and in 2012 marine AH-1Ws have fired over a hundred AKWS II in Afghanistan and none of them missed.

The price of the new 70mm missile is about $30,000 each. This is typical for these weapons and about a third less than a smart bomb and less than a third of what a Hellfire missile costs. The guided 70mm rocket is used against targets that doesn’t require a larger (49 kg/108 pound), and more expensive (over $100,000), Hellfire missile but still needs some targeting precision. In tests 70mm laser guided missiles regularly hit within a meter (a few feet) of the aiming point. The 70mm missile makes an excellent weapon for UAVs, especially since you can carry more of them. The launcher for carrying these missiles is designed to replace the one for Hellfire but can carry four missiles instead of one.

All these 70mm guided rockets are basically 13.6 kg (30 pound) 70mm rockets with a laser seeker, a 2.7 kg (six pound) warhead, and a range of about six kilometers when fired from the air. Laser


TNM ••• 36

designators on a helicopter, or with troops on the ground, are pointed at the target and the laser seeker in the front of the 70mm missile homes in on the reflected laser light.The 2.75 inch (70mm) rockets were developed during World War II but was never widely used until the 1960s when it was discovered that the weapon worked very well when launched from multiple (7 or 19 tube) launchers mounted on helicopters. The 108-138m cm (42-55 inch) long rockets could be fired singly or in salvoes and gave helicopter pilots some airborne artillery for supporting troops on the ground. There are many variations in terms of warheads and rocket motors. Some versions can go over 10 kilometers.

Raytheon also has a version of Talon for small ships. This new version uses the existing LAU-68 launcher for 70mm rockets, but linked to a fire control system that can put a laser on the ship or boat that the 70mm missiles can find and hit. Fired from the surface these 70mm missiles have a range of five kilometers. The LAU-68 filled with seven 70mm missiles weighs about 227 kg (500 pounds) and is small and light enough to be mounted on small ships. The problem is there are already many models of missiles and autocannon already available for this sort of thing.

This has been the problem with all version of these 70mm missiles.

The 2.75 inch (70mm) rockets were developed during World War II but was never widely used until the 1960s when it was discovered that the weapon worked very well when launched from multiple (7 or 19 tube) launchers mounted on helicopters.


TNM ••• 37www.natoexhibition.org

15 – 17 October 2014P R A G U E , C Z E C H R E P U B L I C

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INZERCE - A4 - 03.indd 1 18.2.2014 12:50:50


TNM ••• 38


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TEXT AND PHOTOS BY

Jody Lewis, Crossfire Photography

Lockestone Industries

80% LowerReceivers

TNM ••• 40


I first started seeing 80% AR-15 lowers hit the market in 2008 and by 2012 the 80% market was gaining serious ground

due to price drops and a plethora of supply. All of that changed December 2012 when the horrific Sandy Hook massacre took place and the entire country was in turmoil regarding gun laws. That scare created more demand than supply could keep up with and so gun buyers were forced to look at 80% solutions.

Things are starting to creep back to normal and 80% is becoming more and more available. We have entered into that phase where companies are stepping up their game and in order to stay ahead they must stay innovative.

Lockestone is one of those companies. Not only are they making a unique Billet 80% lower, they also have created a universal JIG to work with it. This is important because the majority of jigs on the market are designed to work with mil-spec forged lowers only. Lockestone’s JIG will work with just about every lower out there.

With the patent pending innovation Lockestone has created, it is definitely worth having a hard look at, so I decided to try it out.

80% Lower:Lockestone sent us one Billet lower, which was anodized burnt

orange. If that is not your thing, it is available in several colors from black to burnt bronze.

The first thing that came to my mind was why would you anodize a lower before it was machined, wouldn’t the machining processes render the finish useless? To my surprise, you would have a hard time knowing the entire lower had been machined after anodizing. Once it was built and put together with an upper, it is a non-issue.

LockeStone’s 80% Lower Receiver starts from U.S. aerospace grade 7075-T651 aluminum billet stock and is fully machined in the U.S.A. to MIL-SPEC tolerances. The operations left to be completed are the fire control group pocket, trigger pin-hole, hammer pin-hole, trigger slot and the safety selector hole.

TNM ••• 41


Key Features:• CNC machined 7075-T6

aerospace aluminum billet stock• Structurally designed for added

strength• Bull-nosed magazine well for

enhanced ergonomic comfort• Integrated trigger guard for

gloved use and added strength• Enhanced tolerances for a tighter

mechanical fit• Serrated trigger finger index

point• Anti-glare Bead Blast tactical

finish• Mil-Spec hard coat anodized• 100% MADE IN THE U.S.A.

80% universaL JiG:In addition to the lower, we received the universal AR-15 JIG, which features

a reversible single-piece design. It is constructed of thick, rigid 11-gage steel; this jig is durable enough for machining multiple lowers when used properly and includes all of the guides to finish the machining steps required to complete an AR-15 lower.

The universal 80% JIG is a one-piece jig with the drill patterns built in to reduce milling time. That means instead of hitting the ground running with an end-mill and taking your time milling out the pocket at a slow pace, the drill guide

allows you to pre-drill a series of holes and then bore those holes to reduce milling time. In essence this is a faster process that results in less wear on your end-mill.

Machine Bit set:For those that do not own the necessary bits and pieces, lockestone offers a complete bit set with all of the necessary cutting tools to finish an AR-15 80% lower receiver.

The bit set includes:

• 5/32 inch Drill for trigger group• 3/8 inch Drill for trigger group• 3/16 inch Drill for pre-mill hole

pattern



The universal 80% JIG is a one-piece jig with the drill patterns built in to reduce milling time.

TNM ••• 44


• 5/16 inch Piloted Bore for pocket pre-mill holes

• 5/16 inch Short Flute End Mill with Full Round Shank for pocket and trigger

Machine tiMe:Setting up the lower in the jig is pretty straight forward if you follow the printed directions and Lockstone has created a handy tutorial video to aid the first time machinist in finishing their 80% lower.

The most important thing to remember is to take your time, check your measurements and steps twice if not three times. It does not take much to make an error if you are not paying attention, so go SLOW! I should note this can be done on a home type drill dress if you have a decent mill-drill table vice. I found one at Harbor Freight Tools pretty cheap:

www.harborfreight.com/5-rugged-cast-iron-drill-press-milling-vise-69159.html

This is not the best option but if you are only doing one, this is the route I would go.

For our lower, we used a Bridgeport Mill. Regardless, one of the most important things to make sure of is that your table is level and your x and y axis is straight. You can accomplish this with a travel indicator; again you can find them pretty inexpensive at Harbor Freight:

www.harborfreight.com/1-inch-travel-machinists-dial-indicator-623.html

I generally like higher-end gear, such as Mitutoyo or Starrett for precision, but it is over-kill if you are doing

just one lower.

A first time user can expect it to take 2-4 hours to finish their lower on a mill and double that on a mill-drill, so don’t be surprised if you spend all day on it. Generally after you have had more time doing it, you can cut that in half. Setup takes the longest and the cutting is pretty quick.

TNM ••• 45


TNM ••• 46


Other items which can save you time are:

Parallel Bar Set:www.harborfreight.com/20-piece-parallel-set-789.html

Edge and Center Finder:www.smithy.com/accessories/MjUtMDEw

I have found that hand fitting is usually needed and a good set of machinist files is a plus. We were very happy with the quality of all the parts, the instructions, customer support when we had questions and overall had a great experience. The lower went together without issue and we took it to the range to put some rounds downrange. Our test gun experienced no issues and functioned perfectly.

DrawBacKs:The only issue we ran into during the machining process was keeping the precision pins in place. These are the pins that hold the lower in place while machining. Our pins kept falling out and at times the pins were in to far so our mill bit hit them. This could be improved but is really more of a frustration that can be overcome with patients.

www.lockestone.com

TNM ••• 47

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Somali pirate clampdown caused

drop in global piracyimB reveals

IMB offers the latest piracy reports free of charge. To request a PDF version of the report by email, please visit

www.icc-ccs.org/piracy-reporting-centre/request-piracy-report

TNM ••• 50


Piracy at sea has reached its lowest levels in six years, with 264 attacks recorded worldwide in 2013, a 40%

drop since Somali piracy peaked in 2011, the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) International Maritime Bureau (IMB) revealed today. 15 incidents were reported off Somalia in 2013, down from 75 in 2012, and 237 in 2011.IMB’s annual global piracy report shows more than 300 people were taken hostage at sea last year and 21 were injured, nearly all with guns or knives. A total of 12 vessels were hijacked, 202 were boarded, 22 were fired upon and a further 28 reported attempted attacks. Nigerian pirates were particularly violent, killing one crewmember, and kidnapping 36 people to hold onshore for ransom.“The single biggest reason for the drop in worldwide piracy is the decrease in Somali piracy off the coast of East Africa,” said Pottengal Mukundan, Director of IMB, whose Piracy Reporting Centre (PRC) has monitored world piracy since

1991. IMB says Somali pirates have been deterred by a combination of factors, including the key role of international navies, the hardening of vessels, the use of private armed security teams, and the stabilizing influence of Somalia’s central government.

“It is imperative to continue combined international efforts to tackle Somali piracy. Any complacency at this stage could

re-kindle pirate activity,” warned Captain Mukundan.The 15 incidents attributed to Somali pirates in 2013 include two hijacked vessels, both of which were released within a day as a result of naval actions. A further eight vessels were fired upon. These figures are the lowest since 2006, when 10 Somali attacks were recorded.

NigeriaN pirates further afieldMeanwhile, West African piracy made up 19% of attacks worldwide last year. Nigerian pirates and armed robbers accounted for 31 of the region’s 51 attacks, taking 49 people hostage and kidnapping 36, more than in any year since 2008. Nigerian pirates ventured far into waters off Gabon, Ivory Coast and Togo, where they were linked with at least five of the region’s seven reported vessel hijackings. Off the coast of Nigeria itself, two ships were hijacked, 13 were boarded and 13 fired upon.

The IMB PRC is the only independent 24-hour manned centre receiving reports from and providing information to ships, law enforcement and governments in respect of attacks around the world.

TNM ••• 51


Malaysian waters saw the hijacking of two product tankers with 27 crew taken hostage, resulting in the theft of ships’ property and cargo.

armed robberyIn Indonesian anchorages and waters, IMB reports a high number of “low-level opportunistic thefts, not to be compared with the more serious incidents off Africa”. However, these accounted for more than 50% of all vessels boarded in 2013, and armed robbery increased for a fourth consecutive year.

Over a third of Indonesia’s incidents were reported in the last quarter of 2013. The IMB PRC has been working closely with the Indonesian Marine Police who have increased maritime patrols and designated safe anchorage areas for vessels to use in certain higher risk ports.Attacks in India and Bangladesh are also described as “low-level and opportunistic”. The incidents off India have increased year on year since 2010, reaching 14 in 2013, while IMB says active patrolling by the Bangladesh Coast Guard has kept the number of incidents off Chittagong in Bangladesh at around 12 for the last few years.

The IMB PRC is the only independent 24-hour manned centre receiving reports from and providing information to ships, law enforcement and governments in respect of attacks around the world. IMB strongly urges all shipmasters and owners to report all incidents of actual and attempted piracy and armed robbery to the IMB PRC. This first step in the response chain is vital to ensuring that adequate resources are allocated by authorities to tackle piracy. Transparent statistics from an independent, non-political, international organization can act as a catalyst to achieve this goal.

TNM ••• 52


live piracy& armed roBBery report 2014IThe Piracy & Armed Robbery Report section below follows the definition of Piracy as laid down in Article 101 of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and Armed Robbery as laid down in Resolution A.1025 (26) adopted on 2 December 2009 at the 26th Assembly Session of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

FOR MORE INFO PLEASE VISIT:

www.icc-ccs.org

TNM ••• 53


attacK NUmBer085-1421.05.2014: 0200 UTC: POSN: 06:03N – 001:14E, ABOUT 4NM

SOUTH Of LOME PORT, TOGO.

A boat with eight robbers armed with long knives attempted to board a

chemical tanker at anchor. Alert deck watch keepers on board an anchored

chemical tanker noticed a boat with eight robbers, armed with long knives,

attempting to board the vessel. Alarm and ship’s horn sounded. Seeing

alert crew and due to a moderate swell the robbers were unable to board

the vessel and moved away.

attacK NUmBer084-1423.05.2014: 0020 LT: POSN: 06:01S – 106:54E, JAkARTA ANCHORAGE, INDONESIA.

Three robbers boarded an anchored bulk carrier. Deck patrol noticed the robbers and alerted the bridge. Alarm raised and all crew mustered. The robbers threatened the deck patrol with a knife and escaped with stolen ship’s engine spares.

attacK NUmBer083-14

22.05.2014: 1440 LT: POSN: 03:55.6N - 098:46.9E,BELAWAN ANCHORAGE,

INDONESIA.

Two robbers boarded an anchored chemical tanker. Alarm raised and all crew mustered.

The robbers escaped with stolen ship properties.

TNM ••• 54


attacK NUmBer082-1413.05.2014: 0430 LT: POSN: 04:45N - 006:59E,

PORT HARCOURT ANCHORAGE, NIGERIA.

Two robbers boarded an anchored tanker, took hostage two crew members and threatened them with knives.

The robbers released the crew after stealing mooring ropes. Upon release the crew raised the alarm and all crew

mustered on the bridge. While mustered on the bridge the Master and crew smelled cargo gas and noticed a small

craft alongside the vessel near the forward stealing cargo. Nigerian Navy contacted and ships in the vicinity warned on

VHf Ch 16. The Navy responded by sending a small speed boat, which circled the vessel and then left. All crew safe.

attacK NUmBer079-1410.05.2014: 2310 LT: POSN: 22:13.4N – 091:45.9E, CHITTAGONG ANCHORAGE, BANGLADESH.

15 robbers in a wooden boat approached an anchored product tanker. One robber attempted to board the tanker using a

portable ladder but the duty watchman managed to deter the boarding. Alarm raised and crew mustered. The robbers

aborted the attempted attack and moved away. Coast Guard informed.

attacK

NUmBer081-14 14.05.2014: 0440 LT: POSN: 01:04.8N – 103:28.6E, kARIMUN ANCHORAGE, INDONESIA.

Two robbers tried to board an anchored product tanker. Duty lookout noticed the robbers and informed the OOW. Alarm raised and all crew mustered. Seeing the crew alertness, the robbers moved away.

attacK

NUmBer080-14

12.05.2014: 0515 LT: POSN: 01:35.6N - 104:32.2E,

MALAySIA.

3/Eng on board an anchored tanker spotted three to four robbers

in the steering gear room. He immediately informed the bridge,

raised the alarm and the crew were alerted. Seeing the alerted

crew the robbers escaped without stealing anything.

TNM ••• 55


attacK NUmBer082-1413.05.2014: 0430 LT: POSN: 04:45N - 006:59E,

PORT HARCOURT ANCHORAGE, NIGERIA.

Two robbers boarded an anchored tanker, took hostage two crew members and threatened them with knives.

The robbers released the crew after stealing mooring ropes. Upon release the crew raised the alarm and all crew

mustered on the bridge. While mustered on the bridge the Master and crew smelled cargo gas and noticed a small

craft alongside the vessel near the forward stealing cargo. Nigerian Navy contacted and ships in the vicinity warned on

VHf Ch 16. The Navy responded by sending a small speed boat, which circled the vessel and then left. All crew safe.

attacK NUmBer079-1410.05.2014: 2310 LT: POSN: 22:13.4N – 091:45.9E, CHITTAGONG ANCHORAGE, BANGLADESH.

15 robbers in a wooden boat approached an anchored product tanker. One robber attempted to board the tanker using a

portable ladder but the duty watchman managed to deter the boarding. Alarm raised and crew mustered. The robbers

aborted the attempted attack and moved away. Coast Guard informed.

attacK

NUmBer080-14

12.05.2014: 0515 LT: POSN: 01:35.6N - 104:32.2E,

MALAySIA.

3/Eng on board an anchored tanker spotted three to four robbers

in the steering gear room. He immediately informed the bridge,

raised the alarm and the crew were alerted. Seeing the alerted

crew the robbers escaped without stealing anything.

attacK NUmBer078-1407.05.2014: 0241 LT: POSN: 01:28.7N – 104:40.0E, AROUND 15NM NNE Of

PULAU BINTAN, INDONESIA.

Alert crew on board an anchored product tanker noticed four persons armed with knives

near the poop deck and raised the alarm. Hearing the alarm the persons escaped without

stealing anything.

attacK NUmBer077-1405.05.2014: 2155 LT: POSN: 22:08N – 091:46E, CHITTAGONG ROADS, BANGLADESH.

30 robbers in a boat armed with long knives approached an anchored chemical tanker. four robbers boarded the tanker and cut off the aft mooring rope. Alarm raised, crew mustered in the accommodation and Coast Guard informed. Upon hearing the alarm, the robbers stole a lifebuoy and escaped. A patrol boat came to the location and made a search.

attacK NUmBer076-14 04.05.2014: 0420 LT: POSN: 01:27.2N – 104:35.2E, AROUND 13NM NORTH Of PULAU BINTAN, INDONESIA.

Duty A/B on routine rounds on board an anchored chemical tanker noticed the steering gear room’s door open. Upon approaching, he saw a robber escaping over the railing and informed the bridge. Alarm raised and all crew mustered. Upon searching the vessel it was discovered that ship’s engine spares were stolen. A security message was broadcast to ships in the vicinity.


TEXT BY

Devin Viergever

Line offire

TacTicaLProtecting your

hands, while giving you the

oPtimal amount of griP on your

firearm or tools.


TNM ••• 60


Your hands are a vital part of the body and doing your day to day activities with them injured or out of commission

can be very difficult if not nearly impossible. having grown up in the sticks in Kansas i have always ended up doing odd jobs that were physical and have managed to build myself some lifetime calluses but no matter how hard or tough your hands are sometimes when working with firearms, doing self-defense drills or even just running and gunning it is easy to tear up the hands. let me tell you from experience that i have seen some of the biggest, toughest soB’s around turn soft pretty quick when they smoke their hand on a hot barrel or run the mouth of a case into the palm of their hand clearing a stovepipe.

when i first starting getting serious about shooting and taking firearms classes i took the tough guy road and i will never forget the first time i went to move from a barricade hold and ended up with a one inch splinter in my palm from the homemade barricade. i played tough but my inner sissy was going wild. since then i have had everything from oakley to nomex flight gloves and now my current gloves, and by far my favorite the line of fire tactical sentry glove.

the line of fire sentry gloves are certainly a great fitting glove that has a good snug feel and doesn’t hang off the end of the fingers yet fit skin tight other places. they are very well built and have been extremely durable and look good as new after a little washing. they provide an excellent level of dexterity for manipulating firearms or performing everyday tasks.

the top side has a flexible, abrasion and impact resistant knuckles

made from polyurethane knuckle protection against cuts and scratches, while remaining soft and flexible enough that you can still close your fist without having the knuckle dig into your hand. the fingers are made of drum dyed cowhide leather for good protection while still being able to grip well.

the palm side is where the line of fire gloves get very interesting. line of fire covers the palms of each one of their gloves with their revolutionary two part grip system known as tegs which consists of thousands of tiny nodules similar to what you would see on a black rubber floor mat. you then use the tegs wrap or weapon specific die cuts on your tool or weapon grip. then when you grab the item with the tegs tape the tiny nodules


The palm sideis where the line of fire gloves get very interesting

TNM ••• 62


interlock and provide a grip second to none but still allowing you to drop or release the tool when needed.

the finger area of the palm is made from high-grade digital goat skin that is made specifically to work with a number of touchscreen products from cell phones, to your gPs and laptop touch pad so that you do not have to cut fingertips off of your gloves or remove them to run your electronics.

line of fire has several different types of gloves in their catalog so if you require a glove with fire resistance they have you covered as well as a winter glove. if a rubber tactical glove is not what you need for your required job or you want

a more professional look they also have the light duty.

the light duty gloves have all of the same touchscreen and tegs

characteristics as the sentry with the exception of the

rubberized knuckles. their backing is

made from ribbed nylon for superior form fitting shape and excellent breathability for those long summer

classes and giving the ability of the

hands to breathe. Both pairs have stood

up excellent for me. Quality and construction have both been excellent and i have been amazed by the durability of the tegs system and the abuse it has seen not only on the glove but on the grips of a couple of my favorite firearms but also using them for day to day tasks to protect the hands.


The light duty gloves have all of the same touchscreen and tegs characteristics as the sentry with the exception of the rubberized knuckles.

l

presented by: Yoni Dahan international Krav Maga Expert Uke: Vladimir Cabrera

-1-An attacker grabs you near the collar and is about to

smash your face!

Defense against

Collar grab attaCk

the art of Krav Maga the art of Krav Maga the art of Krav Maga the art of Krav Maga the art of Krav Maga the a

l

Yoni Dahanmaster in sport education

and self defense Yoni Dahan began his Martial arts

training in Europe when he was ten years old. as a teenager he had the opportunity to participate in and win

The Karate Shotokai Competition and other tournaments held throughout

France. after developing a strong base in Traditional Martial arts (Karate, Judo, Budo), Yoni began to learn hisardut Krav Maga, a reality based israeli self defense

system developed by World Champion and eighth Degree Black belt hanshi

Moti horenstein. Today Yoni Dahan is an instructor at Moti horenstein’s hisardut

Krav Maga in north Miami Beach for children and adults and he is also the

international Representative for the organization spreading hisardut Krav

Maga throughout the world. Yoni Dahan was awarded international instructor

of the Year in 2012 & 2013 as well as international ambassador of hisardut

Krav Maga by the World head of Family Sokeship Council. When he is not in the dojo, Yoni is sharing his hard work and

knowledge with State and Local Law Enforcement agencies.

www.YoniDahan.com


l

-2-With your hands up, you

deliver a quick shin kick to his groin. This causes pain, distraction and he will likely

loosen his grip!

-3-As you pivot to your right, your left hand wraps and traps his

hand (your thumb pressing near his pinkie knuckle and your four

fingers digging into his palm). This trap can be accomplished, even if he keeps a strong grip on your

clothes.


l

-4-You pivot back to your left, turning his hand left

and keeping his arm extended(for best leverage on his wrist), then bring your right palm over your left thumb and push down on his knuckles to bend his

hand towards his wrist.

-5-The takedown is completed as you continue to rotate/turn left (take a small right step forward,

a small left step back)and apply irresistible downward pressure on his knuckles, using a

small circular downward motion.


-7-As he slams on his back, drive your right knee deep into his arm pit,

lean left (away from his free arm), extend your left leg for balance and control his wrist (drive his elbow to the ground, keep that hand

away from his body, his forearm at about a 45 degree angle up from the ground, his arm open at about a 135 degree angle away from his shoulder). Depending on the threat level you can either control him on the ground with a wrist submission and verbal directions or finish

with a wrist break (by applying a sharp downward push) and then elbow or palm strike to his face.

Coming in the next edition, another great option for handling a collar grab attack...


TEXT by

Steve Coulston PHOTOS BY

Jody Lewis

TripleAughtDesignReconAC Pant


TNM ••• 70


Everyone has a specific mission profile. It could be serving a high risk warrant, contracting in a foreign land,

summiting the tallest peak, or braving the office in the urban jungle. Regardless of your lifestyle, the warrior and adventurer in us demands gear that will not only meet our expectations, but exceed them. We expect performance, comfort, precision and style. Triple Aught Design has tailored their clothing and gear to meet those requirements and then some. Triple Aught Design, or TAD for short, takes their name from the engineering and mechanical world. Triple Aught, or .000, specifies tolerances to a thousandth of an inch. This attention to detail is what TAD is committed to. Located in in a historical 4,000 sf warehouse in San Francisco, TAD retails their clothing, gear and tools. In 2014 TAD also added their CORE program which consists of a specific selection of training courses. They also have a second retail location in San Francisco in the Hayes Valley neighborhood. These are the only dealers in the United States; however TAD does have a network of five international dealers as well.

TAD is proud to introduce their latest offering, the RECON AC Pant. The RECON AC joins TADs outstanding line up of pants. The RECON AC will initially be released as a pant; however a short version will also be produced. As should be expected, TAD put a lot of thought and attention to detail into the new RECON AC.

The RECON AC pant is made from TAD’s special Amphibious cloth material. This is one of their best performing materials due to its light weight, breathability and quick drying technology. While

TNM ••• 71


this is not a stretchable material it is very strong. It is 100% nylon with their Durable Water Repellent (DWR) technology built in. The DWR system causes water or moisture to bead up and then roll off the material. This also aids in moisture evaporation should the garment become saturated.

The pant comes with an athletic, standard straight leg cut and is offered in 30”, 32” and 34” inseams. While the pant was designed to be lightweight, TAD didn’t sacrifice strength. They have darted the knees for increased mobility and gusseted the crotch to withstand

the additional stresses caused by dynamic activity. A back yoke and Bartack stich reinforcements have also been added for increased strength at garment stress points. Throughout the construction of the pants, double and triple needle stitching is used. For example the entire length of the leg features

a triple stitch while the storage features of the pant feature a double stich pattern. The RECON AC sports large 2” belt loops that are 1” wide. This allows for a wide variety of belt sizes to fit your specific mission criteria. The pants are secured with a zipper fly and Canadian Tape Button Fly Top Closure.

For a thin, light weight pant, the RECON AC offers an impressive array of storage options. The two hand pockets have generous capacity and feature internal sub load pockets as well. They also have additional material where

The RECON AC pant is made from TAD’s special Amphibious cloth material.


Northwest and we are experiencing 85 degree weather right now. This is warm for my neck of the woods. I found the RECON AC pant very comfortable for my build even given the current weather conditions. The RECON AC pants breathed very well and I never felt over heated.

Even though the pants are made from a non-stretch material, I was pleased they never got bound up or over stressed even when climbing steep grades, bending or squatting. On the trail the pants kept me fairly cool. I also noticed that when I went through brush, they were fairly resistant to getting snagged. Thanks to the straight leg design, the pants fell neatly on top of my boots and didn’t bunch up as would be typical for a more tapered cut pant. They also worked well for trail running by providing adequate room for full strides without grabbing my legs or over stressing the crotch area of the garment. Compatibility is also important.

Even if I am only going on a day hike, I like to have a spare set of clothes in my pack should the ones I am wearing get wet or ruined. The RECON AC can be stowed away in my pack, taking up very little room. This is a big deal. Gear that is heavy or awkward tends to get left behind. Every ounce counts and packing a spare pair of RECON AC pants in my load out isn’t even an issue.

a folding knife would be clipped for added durability. The pockets include a coin pocket, two front welt pockets with lace attachment points. These sub pockets also work well for discreetly housing a cell phone or a spare pistol magazine if that should be a part of your mission profile. Two rear welt pockets are also included. These pockets are non-zippered and cannot be secured. Instead of the traditional side cargo pockets TAD has added two inset zippered cargo pockets with flat lace attachments. These pockets offer increased storage and will not interfere with belt mounted gear that rides on the wearer’s side such as a holster. Contents can be secured via the zipper and can be tethered to the pocket with the internal flat lace attachment points.

These pockets are ideal for softer, more flexible options such as a topographical chart, head phones, spare gloves, or watch cap. Of course more rigid items such as mobile devices or a GPS can fit, however it may prove uncomfortable while running or climbing. TAD has added a little covert feature as a bonus. Inside the pants, along the fly zipper is a small hidden pocket. This pocket can be used to store a spare key, spare cash, or similar sized items.I would say I have a fairly athletic build. I stand 73” tall and weigh in at 205 lbs. I reside in the Pacific


TNM ••• 74


I like to travel light, however like most of you, I have a very specific group of items I carry on a daily basis. I found the storage capacity to be very generous. The sub pockets, within the right front pocket, are perfect for my cell phone and other small items. It should be noted that larger, oversized phones such as my Samsung Galaxy will also fit. As I am a responsible armed citizen and carry a firearm daily, the generous belt loops provided plenty of room for my Ares Ranger belt and holster.

The belt loops are thin and they did not get in the way when I carried my side arm via the appendix carry method or in the more traditional outside the waistband in the 3 or 4 o’clock position. For more overt operations, drop leg holsters and sub loads are easily accommodated for. The

TNM ••• 75


sub pocket in the left hand front pocket was a perfect fit for my spare magazine or a small flashlight. It should be noted TAD has designed these sub pockets so that even when they are in use, they don’t interfere with the larger, primary pocket. This means I was able to carry my wallet, keys etc. without being uncomfortable. Overall, I am impressed with the quality of the Triple Aught Design RECON AC Pant. TAD has done a great job in the design of the RECON AC. Even if you never pull VIP protection detail or kick in a door, the RECON AC will serve you well. It doesn’t matter if you are hiking the trail, relaxing at your favorite camping spot, or working in your office cubicle you will remain cool, comfortable and stylish. As their name implies, Triple Aught Design has applied their craftsmanship and attention to detail to their latest offering.

As summer approaches, I am looking forward to the RECON AC short. I have no doubt it will be a great compliment to the TAD line. Personally, I would love to see a pant/short hybrid. This would give maximum flexibility to the pant and the lower portion of the legs could be removed and stowed very easily in the zipped cargo pockets when not in use. Lastly, the RECON AC is made in the USA which is much appreciated by this author. Regardless of your next TAD purchase, you can rest assured they will stand by their product and do offer a warranty. If you ever have an issue with an item due to defect or early wear, TAD will either repair, replace or refund your money.

The RECON AC Pant retails for $99 and can be purchased via the TAD website.

Situation RepoRt Situation RepoRt Situation RepoRt Situation RepoRt Situation RepoRt Situation RepoRt Situa

TEXT BY

STRATEGYPAGE.COM

AfghAnistAn’s Insurgency after the transItIon

ASIA REPORT N.256 - Kabul/Brussels, 12 May 2014


tnM ••• 77

AfghAnistAn’s Insurgency after the transItIon


Provide diplomatic support for the Afghan government’s efforts to improve relations with Pakistan and revive peace talks, when feasible, with insurgent factions.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARYAND RECOMMENDATIONS

The war in Afghanistan entered a new phase in 2013. It now is increasingly a contest between the insurgents and the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF). Many within and outside the government are more optimistic about stability in the wake of a relatively successful first round of presidential elections on 5 April 2014. However, any euphoria should be tempered by a realistic assessment of the security challenges that President Karzai’s successor will face in the transitional period of 2014-2015. Kabul may find these

formations for assaults, reduces the chances for meaningful national-level peace talks in 2014-2015.A close examination of four provinces – Faryab, Kunar, Paktia and Kandahar – reveals underlying factors that may aggravate the conflict in the short term. Historical feuds and unresolved grievances are worsening after having been, in some cases, temporarily contained by the presence of international troops. In Faryab, these are largely ethnic tensions; in Kandahar they are mostly tribal; but in all transitional areas there is a variety of unfinished business that may result in further violence post-2014. Similarly, clashes among pro-

challenges difficult to overcome without significant and sustained international security, political and economic support.

The overall trend is one of escalating violence and insurgent attacks. Ongoing withdrawals of international soldiers have generally coincided with a deterioration of Kabul’s reach in outlying districts. The insurgents have failed to capture major towns and cities, and some areas have experienced more peace and stability in the absence of international troops. Yet, the increasing confidence of the insurgents, as evidenced by their ability to assemble bigger


tnM ••• 79

posts. The government remains capable of moving supplies along highways to urban centres. ANSF cohesiveness, or lack of it, may prove decisive in the coming years, and Paktia notwithstanding, only minor reports emerged in 2013 of Afghan units fighting each other. As long as donors remain willing to pay their salaries, the sheer numbers of Afghan security personnel – possibly in the 370,000 range today – are a formidable obstacle to large-scale strategic gains by the insurgents.That will not stop the Taliban

government actors may become more frequent, as predicted by local interlocutors after recent skirmishing between government forces in Paktia.

The situation in Kandahar also illustrates the way mistreatment of Afghans at the hands of their own security forces, operating with less supervision from foreign troops, breeds resentment that feeds the insurgency. Finally, despite its rhetoric, Pakistan has not reduced safe havens and other support for the insurgency, while Afghanistan’s hostile responses – especially in Kandahar and Kunar – risk worsening cross-border relations.

None of these trends mean that Afghanistan is doomed to repeat the post-Soviet state collapse of the early 1990s, particularly if there is continued and robust international support. In fact, Afghan forces suffered record casualties in 2013 and retreated from some locations in the face of rising insurgency but maintained the tempo of their operations in most parts of the country. Afghanistan still has no shortage of young men joining the ANSF, offsetting the rising number of those who opt to leave them or abandon their

and other insurgent groups from pushing for such gains, however. Despite a short-lived gesture toward peace negotiations in Doha, the insurgents’ behaviour in places where the foreign troops have withdrawn shows no inclination to slow the pace of fighting. They are blocking roads, capturing rural territory and trying to overwhelm district administration centres. With less risk of attack from international forces, they are massing bigger groups of fighters and getting into an increasing number of face-to-face ground engagements with


tnM ••• 80

Afghan security personnel, some of which drag on for weeks. The rising attacks show that the insurgents are able to motivate their fighters in the absence of foreign troops, shifting their rhetoric from calls to resist infidel occupation to a new emphasis on confronting the “puppets” or “betrayers of Islam” in the government.

The emerging prominence of splinter groups such as Mahaz-e-Fedayeen is a further indication the insurgency will not lack ferocity in the coming years. For the first time, the insurgents inflicted almost as many casualties on Afghan security forces in 2013 as they suffered themselves, and several accounts

of battles in remote districts suggested the sides were nearly matched in strength. There are concerns that the balance could tip in favour of the insurgency, particularly in some rural locations, as foreign troops continue leaving.

President Karzai has refused to conclude agreements with the U.S. and NATO that would keep a relatively modest presence of international troops after December 2014. The two presidential runoff


tnM ••• 81

candidates have vowed to sign the Bilateral Security

Agreement (BSA) with the U.S., which would in turn

allow for a NATO Status of Forces Agreement

(SOFA). While retaining a contingent of

foreign soldiers would not be

sufficient on its own to

keep the

insurgency at bay, its absence could prove extremely problematic. The ANSF still needs support from international forces, and signing a BSA and a SOFA would likely have knock-on effects, sending an important signal of commitment at a fragile time, thus encouraging ongoing financial, developmental and diplomatic support.With or without backup from international forces, the Afghan government will need more helicopters, armoured vehicles, and logistical support to accomplish that limited objective. Such additional military tools would also permit the government to rely increasingly on the relatively well-disciplined Afghan army rather than forcing it


tnM ••• 82

Take urgent steps to reduce casualties among Afghan forces, including a large-scale effort to train police and soldiers in the basics of emergency medical care.

to turn to irregular forces that have a dismal record of harming civilians.Certainly, the future of the Afghan government depends primarily on its own behaviour: its commitment to the rule of law, anti-corruption measures and other aspects of governance must demonstrate its concern for the well-being of all Afghans. However, responsibility also rests with the international community; its patchy efforts over

(SOFA) with NATO.2.Take urgent steps to reduce

casualties among Afghan forces, including a large-scale effort to train police and soldiers in the basics of emergency medical care.

3.Strengthen anti-corruption measures to ensure that security personnel receive their salaries and other benefits, and confirm that ammunition, diesel and other logistical supplies reach Afghan

a dozen years to bring peace and stability must now be followed not with apathy, but with renewed commitment.

RECOMMENDATIONS

To the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan:1.Sign a Bilateral Security

Agreement (BSA) with the U.S. and a Status of Forces Agreement


tnM ••• 83

5.Find a way, possibly by working with other donors, to expand Afghan capacity for tactical air support, including more helicopters in support of government efforts to retain control over remote district centres.

To all donor countries:6.Convene a meeting of donor

countries as a follow-up to the 2012 NATO summit in Chicago, with a view to expanding annual pledges of support, realising them on schedule and allowing the ANSF to maintain for the time being personnel rosters approximately equal to their current levels. Those ANSF levels are not indefinitely sustainable or desirable, but reductions should progress in tandem with

National Security Forces (ANSF) units.

To the government of the United States:4.Significantly increase the size of

the Mobile Strike Force (MSF) program, so that sufficient ANSF quick-reaction units are available to handle many of the worsening security trends of 2014-2015 and beyond.

stabilisation.7.Support anti-corruption measures

by the Afghan government to ensure, inter alia, that salaries are distributed to all ANSF members and logistical supply chains function as required.

To the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan:8.Increase diplomatic outreach to

regional governments, including Pakistan, to find ways of reviving peace talks with the insurgents; maintain, at a minimum, lines of communication between Afghan and Pakistani civilian and military leaders; and explore ways to increase bilateral economic cooperation as a way to ease tensions with Pakistan.

9.Refrain from taking direct military action inside Pakistan


tnM ••• 84

or supporting anti-Pakistan militants.

To strengthen the rule of law

To the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan:10.Reduce reliance on and

ultimately phase out the controversial Afghan Local Police (ALP) program, given the ALP’s abuse of power and destabilising effect in most parts of the country.

11.Respond with transparent investigation and disciplinary measures as appropriate to any report of ANSF failure to protect or deliberate targeting of civilians, in violation of obligations under Afghan and international law.

To all donor countries:12. Assist with programs aimed at

encouraging the ANSF to respect the constitution and the country’s obligations with regard to human rights and the laws of armed conflict.

toward front-line insurgents that publicise the absence of international forces in their areas of operation in order to undermine the logic of jihad after the departure of foreign troops.

To all donor countries:17.Sustain economic assistance

for the Afghan government and work with the finance ministry to encourage growth in customs and other forms of government revenue.

18.Encourage the IEC and the IECC to comply strictly with electoral laws, including requirements to conduct their work in a transparent manner, in the processes of disqualifying voters and adjudicating complaints.

19.Provide diplomatic support for the Afghan government’s efforts to improve relations with Pakistan and revive peace talks, when feasible, with insurgent factions.

To the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan:13.Encourage open public and

media discussion and debate of security problems so as to find solutions and keep policymakers informed; and acknowledge that, aside from the conflict’s external factors, internal Afghan dynamics such as corruption, disenfranchisement and impunity also deserve attention.

14.Strengthen efforts to make the Afghan government more politically inclusive, particularly at the provincial and district level.

15.Refrain from interfering in the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and the Independent Complaints Commission (IECC) processes of disqualifying voters and adjudicating complaints in connection with the 2014 and subsequent elections.

16.Direct propaganda messages


tnM ••• 85


Set your phone to Blaster Mode


TEXT BY

Steve CoulstonPHOTO BY

Jody Lewis

inteliSCOPEPRO & App

Set your phone to Blaster Mode

I think technology is awesome, in fact I would say the amount of technological innovation we have seen in the past 30 years is downright staggering. To some I am still

a young buck after 36 trips around the sun, but I’m beginning to feel my age in this world of technological innovation. Queue the sappy reminiscing music…

I remember when we got our first microwave and when we had to choose between VHS and BETA. I grew up and experienced the evolution of reel to reel, 8 tracks, record players and cassette tapes. I never had a home computer until I was in high school. The coolest tech device I owned in high school was a pager because all the cool kids had one. Hell, the internet wasn’t available until my second deployment in the Navy in the late 90s. I actually wrote letters and mailed them. Oh and don’t forget I also walked to school uphill both ways in the snow, blah, blah, blah… Ok, Ok, end the old man flashback. Should I be ashamed to say, I only have been using a smart phone for the past 2 years or so? Now, I use it for just about everything and it goes everywhere with me. Sure it can be used as a phone but let’s face it today’s smart phones are really mini computers with a phone feature. You can download an app for just about anything in a matter of seconds. Want to play a time wasting game? Done. Need a mobile yoga instructor? Easy. Want to know what you will look like in

TNM ••• 88


30 years? It ain’t pretty… Bottom line, this is the age of information. If you want it, download it. Now.Technology has not been lost on the firearms industry. Computers have been incorporated into the shooting world in the form of range finders, GPSs, ballistic calculators, wind sensors, on board video cameras and much more. An Idaho based company called inteliSCOPE has taken it a step further. They have taken many of the existing features found in “tactical shooting” apps and have combined them with a targeting system app on your smartphone. In addition, they

have developed a method of mounting said smart phone to your favorite lead hurling device.

The App:The inteliSCOPE app can be downloaded from Google Play or iTunes for both iPhones and Android devices. It is a free app and downloads rather quickly. Once the app is installed and activated you are given the option to buy a mount or just go to the app. The buy option will direct you to the inteliSCOPE website where the mount purchase can be made. Once the app is activated a heads

up type display appears featuring a multitude of informational icons. If the smart phone GPS is activated the location wind speed and direction will be featured in the upper left hand corner and the latitude and longitude coordinates will be displayed in the lower right hand corner along with a compass heading and direction. Below the wind speed/direction icon is a video feature so your amazing shots can be recorded and you can impress all your friends on YouTube and Instagram. Very important, I know. Below that is a light feature that activates the LED flash on the

TNM ••• 89


The inteliSCOPe app can be downloaded from Google Play or iTunes for both iPhones and Android devices

camera for constant on or strobe. Next is a stopwatch timer and also the time and date. The upper right hand corner notifies the shooter of what weapon and caliber is being used. Lastly, the center of the screen is a target reticle. Instructions are not included with the app, however it is very intuitive and easy to move around and manipulate the interface. There is a small settings button above the wind icon and when activated it allows the user to configure the app to display the clock, GPS, weapon info, timer, and reticle auto rotate. The weapon info allows the user to choose from a

set list of weapons, their designated round, distance and velocity. This is all customizable and new combinations can be created and added by the user. AR15 NATO 5.56 and SR-25 NATO 7.62 are both included with the app as stock features. Each solution has its own sight in process which is pretty straight forward. The app comes with four retical options to include a Mil-Dot type cross hair, an illuminated chevron, illuminated range ladder type reticle and a standard red dot. More reticles are being developed for the near future. These reticles feature an auto rotating reticle (should you activate it) that will keep the reticle level with the ground plane regardless of the cant of the firearm. The settings menu also has a video icon where recorded sessions can be viewed.

The MounT:inteliSCOPE offers two mounts. The first is the inteliSCOPE mount which is made of composite polymer construction with a tactile rubber finish. This mount is specifically for the iPone series of phones. It features a quick release toggle and is only recommended for 5.56 caliber firearms and smaller. It retails for $99. The other mount is the inteliSCOPE PRO. It has a robust all metal construction with a rubber finish. This mount can house any smart phone up to 3.2 inches in width and also allows the use of protective cases. This mount retails for $169. Both the inteliSCOPE and the inteliSCOPE PRO look very similar. They mount to the top or side of your favorite rifle using a clamp that is secured to the now standard 1913 Picatinny rail. The phone is then inserted and the app activated. Pretty simple really.

The experience:As I have not drunk the Steve Jobs Kool Aid and don’t own an iPhone, I got the inteliSCOPE PRO mount. My phone is a Samsung Galaxy S4

in a Magpul Industries protective case. The inteliSCOPE PRO mount readily accepted my phone and case without issue. I mounted it to an available AR15 and activated the app. My digital targeting system was now up and running. I must admit, this set up takes a little getting used to. OK, it takes a lot of getting used to. I for one have not extended my adolescence into my 30s and don’t play video games. But, if you happen to be one of those warriors who stay up all night saving the world from tyranny and yelling profanities at kids half your age who are kicking your ass half a world away playing Call of Duty, you would feel right at home. I spent some time presenting the rifle and getting familiar with the controls. One thing I noticed right off the bat is the fact that there is an offset in the relationship between the barrel and the camera. Depending on which way the phone is mounted on top of the rifle the barrel will be on the left or right of center. The round impact can be accommodated for when zeroed, but it is a little distracting compared to shooting through a traditional optic that is in line with the barrel. The app is set up to stay on continuously so you don’t get a blank screen in the middle of making that record setting shot. However, if your BFF calls you, you will need to cuss them out because the phone will switch from your high speed targeting system to telephone mode, ring tone and all. Kiss that buck good-by. Now, keep in mind the performance of the app, clarity of the images, refresh rate, etc. will be dependent on the phone being used and the technology available. The Samsung Galaxy S4 has pretty nice camera and video capabilities so the inteliSCOPE app looked really crisp on the display. The day at the range was a fairly sunny. Transitioning from low light to bright light did necessitate a slight delay as the camera had to adjust

TNM ••• 90


for the change in light. Engaging a single close target from a stationary position was fairly straight forward, however quick movements by either the shooter moving locations or transitioning to another target proved somewhat awkward. As most of these movements are fairly quick and sudden, there was a slight lag in video refresh rate for the image to catch up. Then the autofocus had to adjust to accommodate for the difference in lighting. I found this somewhat distracting. A different smart phone user may have a different experience depending on the level of technology and quality of the optics.

I was pleased to discover the inteliSCOPE allowed the gun to be used as a sighting device around corners and over obstacles. This allows the shooter to stay concealed behind cover and use the inteliSCOPE as a recon device. Of course the angle of viewing will vary from phone to phone but the Samsung Galaxy S4 allowed for an almost 90 degree view offset. Another great feature is the video function. As the mount can be mounted on top of the rifle or on the side assuming there is rail space for it the set up can be used with a traditional top mounted optic. Think of it as a poor man’s Go PRO. Mount the inteliSCOPE to the side of the rifle and use the video feature and the other informational icons as a supplementary device to your standard top mounted optic. The video quality on my Galaxy S4 is amazing and so clear.

I was very impressed with the results. It should be noted that none of the screen data is embedded into the video so you will not see your reticle when the video is played back. Also, should you use the inteliSCOPE as a supplementary device, you can download any app you like such as your favorite ballistic calculator for

making those long range shots. You can even play Angry Birds while waiting for that perfect buck to stroll by. The possibilities are endless. The inteliSCOPE PRO stayed mounted to the AR15 for the duration of the test and the mount stayed put. I would have preferred a quick mount option, but the screw down clamp worked fine. If the system is mounted to the top of the firearm as

a primary optic it should be noted should the phone die or malfunction, it will take some time to remove the mount. Also, there isn’t any way for BUIS to be used as the mount is tall and blocks any view of the front sights should they be available.

The mount and the phone were not affected by the mild 5.56 recoil, but I would recommend checking the

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clamp tightness of the mount and the phone occasionally.

My time with the inteliSCOPE PRO and inteliSCOPE App have been fun. It was a nice change to try something new and to experiment with technology and the different ways it is being applied to the shooting sports. While I don’t see the inteliSCOPE going into battle

anytime soon, it is a fun way to mix up your next range session or maybe you can even introduce your video game obsessed nephew to the shooting sports. Another fun way to use the inteliSCOPE is to mount a 1913 rail to your dash and install the mount. Pop in your phone and you have a tactic-cool way to view your GPS! Regardless, the possibilities of future apps or upgrades are

limitless. Who knows what your smart phone will be capable of in the future? Hell, I never thought I could use a weapon mounted phone to engage a target, record the video, post the video online, text my brother and make an Instagram post. I was able to do all these things with the inteliSCOPE … with my muzzle pointed in a safe direction of course…


The mount and the phone were not affected by the mild 5.56 recoil, but I would recommend checking the clamp tightness of the mount and the phone occasionally.

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The latest ceasefire effort between Turkey and PKK (Kurdish separatist

rebels) has not worked as well as everyone hoped. On May 16th PKK gunmen attacked an army outpost in eastern Turkey, wounding two soldiers. This followed a bombing incident in March that killed a soldier. That was the first incident since the ceasefire was declared in March 2013. That deal involved PKK moving all its armed members to northern Iraq (an area Iraqi Kurds have controlled since the early 1990s) and Turkey passing laws to give the 15 million Turkism

consider and even getting most Turks to agree to more Kurdish autonomy is a major achievement.The leader of the autonomous Kurds of northern Turkey recently admitted that in 2006 he resisted pressure from the United States and Iraq to cooperate in an attack on PKK bases in northern Iraq and refused to cooperate. The Iraqi Kurds now see this gesture as unappreciated by the PKK because PKK has insisted on taking control of a long planned (since 2013) and delayed Kurdish National Congress in northern Iraq. This meeting was to bring in representatives

Kurds (most of them in southeast Turkey) more autonomy and freedom from laws restricting the open use of the Kurdish language and customs.The PKK believes the Turks are reluctant to the pass the laws. The recent violence is believed to be the result of factionalism within PKK.

This has long been a problem with the Kurds and, despite constant efforts to impose discipline, in PKK as well. Many PKK members want to continue fighting until southeastern Turkey is an independent state. This is something most Turks refuse to

from Kurds in Turkey, Iraq, Iran and Syria and all the non-Turkey Kurds resisted PKK efforts to take control of the meeting. This lack of unity has, for centuries, cursed Kurdish efforts to establish an independent Kurdistan.

Armed Kurdish resistance has been going on, and off, for centuries. When the Turks first entered what is now eastern Turkey some of the first people they encountered and fought were Kurds. The unrest among Turkish Kurds turns comes from genuine Kurdish nationalism and an

Counter-terrorism:

Kurds And The LosT Province


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ancient Kurdish dreams of an independent Kurdistan. This Kurdish state was supposed to be established after World War I but got aborted by a Greek invasion of western Turkey and a massive Turkish military response to that, and any separatist movements. During the Cold War (1947-91) Russia supported and encouraged Kurdish radicals as a way to destabilize Turkey, an important member of NATO. That led to Kurdish separatist activity in Iran, Iraq, and Syria as well. During the Cold War Turkey gave refuge to Kurdish

war on Turkey in 1984. Since then over 40,000 people have died (73 percent PKK members, 14 percent security forces and 13 percent civilians, most of them Kurds). Not only are most Kurds eager to see an end to the violence, but also to the PKK custom of kidnapping teenage boys and taking them to remote camps where they are persuaded to become full time PKK fighters.

Most of the kidnapped kids decide to stay and fight and in the last decade a quarter or more of them get killed or die from something

refugees fleeing Iraqi oppression. During the Iran-Iraq War (1980-89) both sides made use of Kurdish nationalists to weaken the other side. That was followed by a brutal Iraqi offensive

against their own Kurds in 1988, including dousing Kurdish villages with poison gas. This led to even more Kurdish refugees inside Turkey.The PKK got organized in the 1970s and declared

Counter-terrorism:

Kurds And The LosT Province


TNM ••• 94

else while with the PKK. Many teenage Kurds will join PKK voluntarily, so the kidnapping program causes a lot of anger among the Kurds of southeast Turkey and they want more action by Turkey to stop the practice and find their lost children.

For the PKK, such kidnappings are the only way to maintain their combat strength, which is currently about 5,000 full time fighters and over 10,000 part timers.Kurds are encouraged at Turkish tolerance, and trade relations with, the autonomous Kurds in northern Iraq. Yet the Turks have made it

known that there are limits to this tolerance. Moreover, Kurds remember that Kurdish northern Iraq was part of the Turkish homeland,

not a conquered province like the rest of Iraq. The victorious Allies took northern Iraq away from Turkey in 1918 to deprive Turkey of the oil known

to exist in that area. The Allies feared the Turks would use the oil wealth to rebuild their armed forces. The Turks rebuilt their armed forces without the oil and after World War II because a staunch member of the NATO alliance (meant to defend Europe from Soviet aggression).

Kurds are aware that many Turks would like their lost province back. The Kurds also appreciate that the Turks are shrewd and know how to play a long game and many Kurds see the Turks maneuvering to get their lost province back eventually, no matter how long it takes.

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P •--•

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