Smith Enterprise to supply Special Operations Command .50 Cal. Vortex Flash Eliminator
CRANE Naval Service Warfare announced they are awarding Smith Enterprise's patented Vortex Flash Eliminator a 5-year $1.5 million contract after it was rated the number one suppressor in their developmental test report. CRANE is the testing and contracting division for the United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) which includes the Army Rangers, Navy Seals, and other Special Operations Forces.
Flash suppressors are attached to the muzzle of combat weapons to reduce the visible burning gases that exit the barrel reducing the chances that the shooter will be blinded in dark conditions and helping to hide the shooter's position.
The rigid testing performed by CRANE showed that the Vortex Eliminator was superior to other models easily passing the 95% flash reduction threshold through 10,000 rounds of machine gun fire, a feat extremely difficult to duplicate. During the extensive level of examination the Vortex was also proven to not interfere with normal combat functions, alter weapon firing or cycling, or interfere with mechanical sight. Hazard analysis, visual flash analysis, hardness testing, drop testing, vibration testing, rust resistance testing, and measurement testing were also conducted - SEI passed all standards.
The patented Vortex is the only flash hider in the world with a helical flute design that breaks up the flash at multiple locations and angles in the suppressor. This is far superior to the straight flute design used by other manufacturers and allows the Vortex to reduce more flash, making our troops safer in combat situations.
When told of the contract award, Smith Enterprise President Ron Smith had this to say, "SEI is especially pleased to receive an award for the .50 Cal weapon system. Flash suppression is especially needed for .50 Cal gunners in Afghanistan because many mounted vehicle gunners are often exposed to enemy snipers during mounted combat patrols. .50 Cal gunners are essential when fending off enemy ambushes at night. We are pleased that we can provide the superior Vortex flash eliminator for the military .50 cal gunners - one more way to help them come back home safe and sound."
CRANE has ordered 638 suppressors to date with a forecasted 4,500 to be ordered through the life of the contract.
Source: Smith Enterprise
More from Land Warfare
-
![Dronebuster product line and production capability expanded]()
Dronebuster product line and production capability expanded
DZYNE Technologies, the maker of Dronebuster counter-uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) devices, has announced plans to expand production and released details on a new version of the system. This follows the release of an all-in-one kit system earlier this year.
-
![Ireland plans for radar capability in 2026]()
Ireland plans for radar capability in 2026
The Irish Government has previously outlined ambitious plans, the furthest reach of these being the possible purchase of fighter aircraft to provide a capability the country’s defence force currently doesn’t have. A more advanced procurement effort for a primary radar is being fast tracked.
-
![US Army LTAMDS enters production phase]()
US Army LTAMDS enters production phase
LTAMDS was approved in multiple flight trials and assessments.
-
![Technology transfer: how well does it work?]()
Technology transfer: how well does it work?
Technology transfer is trumpeted by many companies as a way to tap into new markets, win contracts and expand supply and manufacturing capability. It is often used in the area of armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs) and these requirements are a way to see how – and if – they work.
-
![The challenge of making the inflatable illusion and training centre]()
The challenge of making the inflatable illusion and training centre
Faking aircraft, yanks and vehicles has a storied history through the previous century but there are others uses for inflatable systems such as more detailed and classified military equipment and training structures.
