New Military Bomb Designs are Evaluated for 2019

Be Prepared For Every Outcome. Safety is Key.
Be Prepared For Every Outcome. Safety is Key.

Being able to remove suspected bombs or other explosive devices from airports and other places as safely as possible is crucial. Having a bomb caddy on site provides a safe and effective way to accomplish this. If you work in an environment that faces these types of potential threats, staying updated on the latest munitions news can be helpful. Learn more about recent Air Force news about lethal munitions.

Researchers Call for New Bomb Designs

Air Force researchers have been discussing the need for new and improved munitions for modern battlefields. Being able to face potential adversaries in a war, such as China or Russia, means that the Air Force needs to have munitions that are more powerful and provide better precision.

Up-to-date design features would give our forces the advantage if a war broke out with another nation that has advanced weaponry. Researchers have stated that the Air Force is working on maximizing the effects of new munitions rather than minimizing them, which was one strategy of the past.

Peer-Level Threats

The Air Force researchers who are calling for newer designs are concerned about ensuring that the U.S. is ready to handle peer-level or near peer-level threats in terms of power and weaponry. This means making sure that the Air Force has the most updated munitions designs possible. Researchers are expected to continue pushing for this to happen and have begun looking into newer designs this year.

If you are looking into getting a bomb caddy, visit DJ Products. These products are designed to safely carry bombs or other explosive devices, as well as other kinds of items in public spaces.

C-40 Clippers Are a New Upgrade for the Marines

Marines Get New Hardware
Marines Get New Aircraft

The U.S. Marine Corps is turning to GSA listed suppliers for an upgrade to their 1970s-era transport planes. Boeing’s C-40 Clipper is the USMC’s choice to replace two of its C-9B Skytrain executive transports.

C-40 Clippers are also expected to take over for C-9s currently in operation with the U.S. Naval Reserve and U.S. Air Force. Here’s a look at this 737-based aircraft and where it fits in with military programs.

Overview of C-40 Clippers

C-40s in use by the military come in three different models:

The C-40A is a Navy aircraft created by adding a larger cargo door along with stronger wings and landing gear to a 737-700C frame. Its robust navigation system is an advantage in Third World airports with older ground systems.

The USAF’s C-40B has superior technological capabilities, serving as an “office in the sky” for military and government leaders. Its primary feature is a Connexion system that provides secure in-flight broadband connectivity.

The C-40C, another USAF aircraft, is a counterpart to the Navy’s C-40A. Both models can serve as all-passenger, all-cargo or passenger/cargo combination transports.

USMC Order for C-40 Clippers

The USMC’s order for two C-40 Clippers comes amid concerns about continued durability of their aging C-9 aircraft. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is supporting a survey conducted by the USMC to find a supplier for the C-40s. While NAVAIR is expressing willingness to consider used aircraft, experts believe Boeing will ultimately receive the order.

DJ Products: Proud to Be One of the GSA Listed Suppliers

Reduce costs and improve safety with our full line of GSA listed military and defense material handling equipment. Visit our website for more information about products such as our AircraftCaddy and BombCaddy.

DoD Contractors and the New Cyber Mandate Impacts DoD Contractor Administrations

Deposit photosIf your contract with the Department of Defense (DoD) involves processing or holding information that is considered controlled unclassified information, it’s important to become familiar with the new DoD cyber mandate. In addition to using a GSA listed supplier, you should also keep the following information on this new mandate in mind.

Restrict Access to Authorized Users Only

Only authorized individuals who are able to present the right credentials should be allowed access to sensitive information. This helps reduce the risk of unauthorized access that could compromise this information.

Maintain Security Awareness

Administrators, managers and others who are involved in these contracts must be aware of security risks and track access to protected data. This makes it easier to detect any unusual activity that could be considered a security risk.

Prepare for Audit Reviews and Practice Accountability

Contractors who need to stay compliant with the DoD cyber mandate should be prepared to create and maintain audit records that can be monitored and investigated as needed.

Configure the Information System

Information systems should be configured so that they provide only as much functionality as needed for different users. This helps prevent unauthorized access that allows screen sharing or screen scrapping.

Identify and Authenticate Users

Information system users must be properly identified and authenticated to help keep protected content safe from unauthorized access. Those who need to do this should use a platform that offers authentication in order to remain in compliance with the mandate.

DJ Products is a GSA listed supplier for DoD contractors. If you are among these contractors and need a GSA-approved supplier, please browse our selection of products. Our products help you save time and manpower hours, along with reducing the risk of staff injuries.

GAO and the Top Government Contracting Trends

GAO and the Top Government Contracting Trends
GAO and the Top Government Contracting Trends

How does the Trump administration’s proposed budget line up with recent government contracting trends? According to the latest GAO report, there’s a significant disconnect between the two that bears watching.

What Does Current Government Spending Look Like?

Last March, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) released “Contracting Data Analysis — Assessment of Government-wide Trends,” commonly referred to as the Report. Contents included details on federal contract trends during the period from 2011 to 2015.

Overall federal contract spending declined nearly 24 percent, with the bulk of the change coming from a decrease in DoD spending. After spending reached its lowest level during sequestration in 2013, civilian spending bounced back while military spending continued to decrease.

Proposed Budget Changes: Increases and Cuts

A week later, the Office of Management and Budget released its “Budget Blueprint.” Among the major provisions of the blueprint was a significant increase in DoD spending with a corresponding significant decrease in civilian spending.

Specifically, the blueprint called for a $54 billion increase in defense spending, including more equipment for the Navy and Air Force. Cuts in civilian spending were proposed to allow for the boost in defense spending without increasing the national debt.

Congress is not entirely on board with the proposed cuts, so the final budget is expected to look different. Contractors who conduct business with the affected agencies are advised to pay close attention to the blueprint as it passes through the approval process.

DoD Equipment Supplier Movers from DJ Products

Are you a DoD equipment supplier looking for ways to streamline operations? Visit our website for information about our WagonCaddyHD and other electric movers.

Foreign Military Contracts in Question with New Tariffs and Restrictions

Our Military is Our First Line of Defense, and As Such, They Need the Best Protection Too!
Foreign Military Contracts in Question with New Tariffs and Restrictions

Steel and aluminum are materials that are the lifeblood of many industries around the globe. New tariffs are forcing Department of Defense contractors in the military industry to look at more options and determine new strategies for acquisition contracts.

It’s a different era, and to combat the change delivering military-grade, strategic responses is a necessity. Likewise, GSA listed military-grade machinery, is a necessary addition to any functioning industry.

Preparation is Key

The first line of defense is a good offense. Unpredictable problems occur all the time. When Department of Defense (DoD) contractors utilize their military background they can scale just about any unforeseeable hurdles. Put a protective barrier between you and the troubles that may be coming from unexpected areas by preparing for every outcome. You can safeguard your business by employing the right team (human and machine) to carry out the mission at hand despite any threatening storms.

Quality employees and the GSA’s high-grade operating machinery that they use present a high-powered combination of preparation and capability to solve short-notice trends of volatility. Your business could be using the same GSA-approved products that ensure precision, practicality, and efficiency for military contractors. When you place premium machinery on the frontlines of your business, you’re postured to win!

DJ Products Stand at Attention

Relocate aircraft, remove dangerous materials, and transfer important materials (such as steel and aluminum) via trailers and save the backs of your hardworking team in the process! DJ Products continues to facilitate successful task completion. Employers and employees can be overwhelmed without having the right tools to help with day-to-day tasks. If you want to get a good jump on the rising storms, visit DJ Products. Their quality machines last long after the battle ends.

Coast Guard Wants to Fast Track Production of New Icebreaker Ship

Coast Guard ship docked at the Portsmouth harbor in New Hampshire.
The Coast Guard is Working to Upgrade Ships

The Coast Guard is eager to design and build the first of six new icebreakers ahead of the previously proposed schedule. The Polar Star is the sole Coast Guard heavy icebreaker still in operation. It was commissioned in 1976 and is now frequently down for repairs.

Suppliers of government and DoD military contract equipment must adhere to (GSA) processes and demonstrate they can produce top quality products efficiently and quickly. There are currently five companies vying for the contract, but bids remain open to anyone capable of completing the project. Rear Admiral Michael Haycock announced in April of 2018 that the Coast Guard hopes to take delivery of the first new icebreaker by the end of 2023.

“It’s a little bit like a marriage”

According to Military.com, the initial plan had a delivery date of 2028. The rough condition of the Polar Star necessitated the delivery date be pushed up to 2023. The Polar Star crew had to contend with numerous breakdowns during the most recent season at sea. Problems ranged from a flooded engine room to a failure of one of the three main gas turbines.

Haycock said he knows it’s going to be a challenge for designers and builders to meet the updated timeline. He compared the situation between the Coast Guard and contractors to a marriage saying, “If you’re equally unhappy, you know you probably got it right.”

At DJ Products, we understand the requirements of companies that produce DoD military contract equipment. We have high standards for our equipment and customer service. We have a wide line of materials and equipment movement solutions that meet military and DOD requirements. Contact us to speak with one of our sales engineers and to arrange a product demo.

How to Buy Equipment from the General Services Administration (GSA) Office

The GSA Assures You Are Selecting from High Quality Products
The GSA Assures You Are Selecting from High Quality Products

Products that meet high standards are difficult to come by unless you go through a GSA listed supplier. Various military standard equipment is sold through the GSA. They also provide listings for highly-qualified contractors, contractors who in effect have worked closely with the Department of Defense.

The GSA is a solid resource for federal agencies and the public to supply information, advisement and provides multi-billion dollar amounts of products to interested buyers. They also purchase products from small businesses.

Quality is an integral part of what the GSA facilitates. In an on-going technology-driven world, longevity in a product, through design, and premium materials are a commodity that businesses and their consumers appreciate. The GSA sells and purchases the best.

How to Buy through GSA

Whether you are with a federal agency or a public consumer, there are numerous ways you can align yourself with durable, industrial strength products and services. Besides sharing access to alphabetically organized GSA-listed supplier contacts, the GSA has compiled contract award information that can prove beneficial to your product inquiries.

Through their online ordering and shopping system, GSAAdvantage!, interested government employees can browse and compare millions of high-grade products and supplies with just a few clicks.

Similarly, DJ Products has their own selection of DoD and military products that are available to companies that prefer high-grade machinery. To save on labor costs, keep employees safe from injury, and avoid expenditures consistent with acquisition of low-quality products, DJ Products has self-propelled and remote-control machinery to meet unique buyer needs.

Keep valued staff protected and their productivity at a high level when you incorporate trusted machinery in your place of business. Buyers looking for quality use DJ Products to keep their efficiency and profits in tip-top shape.

GSA Schedules and GSA Suppliers – The History of the General Services Administration

GSA Schedules and GSA Suppliers - The History of the General Services Administration
GSA Schedules and GSA Suppliers – The History of the General Services Administration

Despite the prevalence of the organization, it can be hard to find a GSA supplier for warehouse equipment. Established in 1949 in efforts to better manage and support the function of U.S. federal agencies, the GSA has a long and colorful history to match its occasionally unusual equipment needs…

An Interesting Combo

Established by President Harry Truman, the GSA consolidated a number of establishments into one organization:

– The National Archives

– The Federal Works Agency

– Public Building Administration

– The Bureau of Federal Supply

– Office of Contract Settlement

– The War Assets Administration

Varied & Versatile

While the GSA’s initial mission was to handle emergency preparedness, stockpile strategic supplies for wartime, dispose of surplus goods, and manage and store government records, it facilitated everything from the regulation and sale of office supplies to the government, to managing hemp plantations in South America.

The organization’s 2 largest offices, Public Building and Federal Acquisition, house over 1-million federal civilian workers, manage more than 480 historic buildings, and facilitate the purchase of goods and services for the U.S. government from commercial vendors.

Among the GSA’s Historical Contributions:

– A 1950s White House overhaul.

– The 1960s creation of the Federal Telecommunications System.

– The 1970s addition of the Consumer Product Information Center/Federal Citizen Information Center, Federal Buildings Fund, and Office of Information Resources Management.

– The 1990s introduction of the Design Excellence Program.

– Electronics and Internet-technology initiatives in the 2000s.

– Work at over 500 American Recovery & Reinvestment Act projects in the 2010s, alongside the Open Government Directive (Data.gov) and Making it Easier initiative.

Looking for DoD and military equipment designed to step-up safety and boost productivity? From the rare to the run-of-the-mill, for over 20-years, DJ Products has been an innovator and trusted GSA supplier for warehouse equipment. Discover more today.

DoD Contractors: Did You Make the NIST Cyber Security Deadline of December 31st?

Did You Make the Deadline?
Did You Make the Deadline?

The end of the year can bring a whirlwind of last-minute tasks and tying up loose ends. Defense contractors also faced a deadline of December 31, 2017 to comply with new NIST requirements for securing data. As your DoD equipment supplier, we want to make sure you’re kept abreast of major defense contractor news.

What Is the NIST 7012 Rule?

The DoD updated the security requirements for defense-related information on or passing through your computer or network. This was covered in the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement clause 252.204-7012. Unclassified information must now meet higher security standards than in the past.

The -7012 clause covers such unclassified info labeled as Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Such information may have been supplied as part of the contract paperwork, or transmitted during fulfillment of the contract.

Notably, the -7012 security standards apply to subcontractors as well as prime contractors.

The revised rules also call for “Cyber Incident Reporting” for any cyber threats, data breaches, identified weaknesses, etc. All contractors must report cyber incidents to the DoD, and inform their higher-up contractors.

What if I Missed the NIST Security Deadline?

If your firm does not comply with -7012 as of now, you are prevented from securing new defense contracts. Any ongoing contracts are potentially affected as well, with negative evaluations or cancellations being possible.

DoD Contractor Equipment for Better Operations

If you need to tighten up operations for better efficiency and productivity, your DoD equipment supplier specialists at DJ Products can help. Material handling equipment such as our TrailerCaddy powered dolly, BombCaddy remote-controlled power trailer, and other GSA-approved tools can help move vehicles, trailers, machinery, and more.

Contact DJ Products to request more info about material handling equipment from your DoD equipment supplier today.

Military and DoD News: Will Trump’s Defense Spending Become Reality?

Stacks of Ten Thousand Dollars Cash
Money May Soon Be Pouring into the Pentagon for Defense Spending

With his recent signing of a defense policy bill, President Donald Trump is attempting to make good on his campaign promise for a stronger military. The question remains whether Congress will free up the purse strings that stand in the way of Trump’s mission.

As your full-service GSA material handling equipment supplier, DJ Products offers a closer look at what this means for the upcoming year.

Will Trump’s Wish Become Reality?

Trump’s initial budget proposal in 2017 called for a base amount of $603 billion for defense spending. Critics argued that it wasn’t nearly enough to fund the military buildup that had been one of Trump’s major campaign promises.

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which Trump signed in early December, seemingly addresses the discrepancy by authorizing nearly $700 billion.

– $626.4 billion forms the base military budget

– $65.7 billion is allocated for the Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) war fund

The bill faces a huge roadblock in the form of the Budget Control Act of 2011. That bill caps the base defense budget for 2018 at $549 billion, which is significantly less than the total of the NDAA.

Turn to DJ Products for Your Material Handling Needs

Are you a DoD contractor looking for safer solutions to your material handling requirements? Visit our website to learn why DJ Products is your top choice for a GSA material handling equipment supplier.