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Imialover,
I appreciate your fanaticism.
The share price certainly does not reflect the progress that the company has made over the last year. There has been a fair amount of dilution within the last year and a half, but it has helped the company stand on its own two feet, and hopefully the printing press is unplugged for a while.
Revenues are steadily increasing, but due to the nature of the business there is no consistency in contracts. i.e. they come when they come.
Due to a competitor protest in the fall, evidently Virtra has chosen to not announce sales until installation is complete. Historically speaking, virta has announced sales the minute they got them and put alot of effort into hyping the stock. Years ago the share price was exponentially higher on less promising annual sales.
Many of the longs here have hung around because the management has always communicated with the shareholders consistently, good or bad.
There is value in the technology. If the company can't perform this year, I would imagine they will be entertaining offers from large defense contractors for a buy-out. Evidently there was an offer on the table 2 years ago which resulted in the resignation of the former ceo, so it has been considered.
Aside from the share price, this is the strongest the company has ever been financially.
b-17
Would Blackwater be considered a customer in the Middle East?
They could probably use some shoot/no-shoot training.
b-17
The Middle East?
I don't mean to pry but how, what, where, do you know of his trip?
I appreciate the fact that he is involved in the actual sales process at that level. Pounding the pavement.
If you can expand on your comments please do.
Thanks in advance,
b-17
Ellington,
Please explain:
1) what was your small business with the market of VTSi?
2) Why do you believe there will be no news until next year?
3) What makes you think 2008 is looking good?
thanks<
b-17
If the 24 unit deal to the DHS gets delivered in December, along with this 6 unit deal, 4th quarter rvenue will be at least $1.3 million. Tack on The IVR 180 to the US Army, and 4th quarter revenue will exceed $1.5 million.
Without a $400k write down, like the 3rd quarter, the 4th will be cashflow positive & profitable.
It would be nice to get some feedback from Itsec.
b-17
Does rb still work for the company?
The return of Michael Kitchen is a great sign for the company.
He's no dummy. He's a salesman, and obviously works for a commision.
His return shows that there are significant enough sales for him to be on board full time, and that it is going to be worth his while.
I wholeheartedly believe that his return coincides with the award of the enormous, indefinite, multi-billion dollar award to Raytheon from the Army, for the warfighter FOCUS training program.
With General Dalby's affiliation to the Army, a sale to the Army research Lab, and a sale to Raytheon, it is inconceivable that the Army doesn't want Virtra's technology involved in some way, shape, or form.
It can't be a coincidence that Mr. kitchen has chosen to return 24 hours after that award was announced.
I expect a subtle, steady increase in the share price as people start to talk and realize that there are real, concrete sales in the works.
Army agency's deal to be a record Teams led by Raytheon and General Dynamics vie for the contract, potentially worth $11B.
http://www.peostri.army.mil/PAO/publicinfo/FILES/Sentinel_ArmyAgency.pdf
Sounds familiar...
In terms of contract structure, McBride added, “The Warfighter FOCUS contract will be very supporting of the small business community. And when I say that what I mean is that we’re going to include very strict and mandatory requirements for whoever wins this contract for having small business participation in the program.”
http://www.military-training-technology.com/article.cfm?DocID=1333
If Virtra Delivers the recent orders before January 1
2006 revenue will be close to $2.8 million.
2005 was $977k
2004 was $1.3 million
That is promising.
General Dalby has hinted that there will be some sort of open forum for discussion, several different times.
I am waiting to hear his side of the story before I join the witch trial.
“I look forward to sharing the details of this important acquisition then and further anticipate a forum through which we can engage in substantive dialogue about our company, and how we will grow it together.” 9/26/2006
“I am committed to increasing shareholder value through successful growth strategies, including, but not limited to, new market channels, complementary acquisitions, and other untapped revenue generating avenues. I full-well intend to complete a merger shortly, have neared completion of our talks with the parties involved, and will prepare information for your review so that we may together dissect and understand the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead of us” 9/28/2006
“I expect to send the proxy statement for SEC review, requesting an adjustment in our authorized capital in preparation for the planned acquisition, within the next few days. It is necessary we complete this adjustment in order to then finalize our acquisition, which will also require shareholder approval. However, our most imminent need at present is to satisfy our remaining liability to Duchess, our company's financier. As we are now becoming more self-sufficient, it is my intention to eliminate this debt, in a way that best suits the Company and our shareholders, as soon as possible.” 10/03/06
“Once publicly available, we can discuss the current opportunities and challenges we face, and how I intend to steer us toward growth and prosperity. The company has truly "turned-the-corner," and I remain steadfastly committed to generating shareholder value through increasing market share, and merger and acquisition.” 10/10/2006
bac
From TiTraining website:
Greg Otte, President
Founder of IES in 1996, leader in creating a new direction of interactive and video based training in law enforcement agencies. Created many of the standards for interactive training programs used by Federal, State and local agencies throughout the US.
e-mail:greg@titraining.com
Isn't IES who Michael Kitchen used to work for?
In Bylo's defense,
While we may not agree ,he has always been very honest in his position. I like Virtra, he doesn't.
bac
Pardon my misrepresentation, I meant Paul P.
1 - Paul was obsessed with question marks, and these <<< >>>, though I haven't seen you use those.
2 - Paul wrote in such a way that he acted like a shareholder sometimes, but also completely distanced himself from the idiocy of actual share ownership.
3 - Paul loved to post news from FATS, which is how you began your alias.
4 - Paul enjoyed discrediting anything positive that anyone had to write, or any positive news the company had.
5 - Paul liked to make it seem that he was just trying to learn more about the stock at first, when it was obvious that he already knew and it was just for the sake of argument.
6 - Paul had an overall air of ambiguity about his prescence here that made it seem that he had an underlying purpose.
7 - Paul had a lot of time on his hands to accomplish all of the above, on a board of a stock which he did not own.
That's just off the top of my head, but if it wasn't you then this discussion is futile.
I apologize, and will leave Paul P in the past.
bac
Keith,
I mean no disrespect, but did you used to post here as Paulp? and if so will you just simply go back to that alias.
thanks in advance,
bac
These are the two quotes that I am stuck on:
1-"we have secured a large amount of new business over the past few weeks"
2-"Our team’s vision, determination, talent, and plain-old hard work, have come through in a big way for us all"
There has to be some multi system sales on deck.
Mr. Kitchen made an excellent point,
Virtra sims have now been purchased by all four divisions of the military; Army Research Lab, various Air Force installations, the recent Marine Corps deal, and now this Navy order. The penetration is a huge accomplishment.
The huge hurdle that Virtra faces, in my opinion, is establishing themselves as the next generation simulator. That is to say when/if a branch of the military gets funding, do they upgrade their garbage FATS simulators again & again or do they make the jump to the new improved Virtra technology.
I hope that we are on the eve of this shift with the new budget.
My optimism lies in General Dalby's systematic release of recent PR's.
If it is not a build up to something big, the PR's would be random. I expect another release on Thursday.
Nice work Felix,
I appreciate your efforts on the ibox.
As more announcements are released this week, hopefully, we can add them to the list of recent accomplishments for the new management.
Could anyone confirm TEEROY's take on this:
" so the average contract size for 541511 "custom computer programming" is around 18 million dollars."
From message 19718
I don't question TEEROY's knowledge of rfp's, rather I would like to get a few more shareholders on the bandwagon believing that there is an enormous contract coming our way.
Thanks in advance.
I anticipate a string of consecutive announcements prior to the actual delivery of the merger proxy statement.
Perhaps the new management held back some announcements throughout the summer, in order to make a big splash before they ask the shareholders to condone the merger announced last year. Keep it coming.
May I suggest to the Ihub board moderators that we consider cleaning up the top of the "IBOX" (if that is the proper terminology.)The 30 merger questions, while still applicable, may not exactly ease the concerns of new investors. With General Dalby at the helm, there will probably be an influx of different eyes checking out the board.
Lets change the IBOX to a list of recent accomplishments since the new management took over, rather than regurgitating how trying the last year has been. SO far there are only 2, but if I am reading General Dalby and Mr. Kitchen correctly, it seems like there will be more soon.
more announcements combined with an overall positive perception of new management will undoubtedly move this stock
my 2 cents
To all,
If virtra is "leasing" this equipment to the usmc at a rate of $500k over a certain period of time, does it remain as a $500k asset on the Virtra balance sheet?
Felix,
I have emailed Steven Haag, Investor Relations, twice and have also received expedient and diligent responses.
The following is his last response. While not disclosing any material events it is quite calming:
"It is nice to hear from you. Thank you for your continued interest in VirTra Systems.
"Yes, with respect to the CEO, merger news (it continues as planned), and conference call, all of those items have been priorities for the board since learning of Mr. Jones departure, and are currently underway. I have meetings scheduled in Houston in the morning (I am currently traveling) to discuss these things, and many others, and we will, of course, communicate with all very soon.
I am copying both Andy and Bob on this correspondence, and ask you to feel free to communicate with them if you wish, I know you will find them as willing to discuss VirTra Systems as was Mr. Jones, and will also find them both energized by VTSI's current opportunities and very insightful.
However, we will specifically be addressing the areas you have asked about, and it is our intention to relay this information when available.
I would also like to take this opportunity to allay any fears of the company's demise. We are very much in business, we continue with our initiatives while always searching out new ones, and look forward to soon communicating with all.
I believe you, too, will be energized by the board's talent, expertise, and continued dedication to our shareholders.
It pains me to not be able to disclose more at the point; but, your comments have been passed along to the board as discussed.
In the meantime, please feel free to contact me anytime, should you feel the need ."
Best regards,
--Steve Haag
vice-president of investor relations
VirTra Systems, Inc.
Mr. haag, following in the footsteps of Kelly, seems to be a class act.
Felix,
The 'maybe' ideas are what helps to destroy this stock price right now.
The Board of Directors must have something up their sleeves.
Board, please say something. Let us know that the lights are still on and that there is still a pulse.
Please.
Felix,
This has to be related to the merger.
Kelly's resignation was submitted to Andrew Wells, and Bob Ferris. One of them, or Steve Haag, investor relations, needs to step up and calm everyone's nerves.
I can understand replacing the ceo on the verge of a large merger like this, but I cannot comprehend how the company is being tight lipped.
Kelly's resignation is dated 4/21. That means that they had all weekend to conjure up a pr that would offset this odd news.
Without leadership from the board of directors, the share price is completely subject to rumors and falsehoods.
Gents,
There is no way that Kelly's shares are set up so that he could sell them right away. He is still the Major shareholder. It would be nice to get a company pr, to explain this turn of events. Mainly,
1- Is the merger moving forward?
2- Who is in charge now?
3- What is the corporate move that sent Kelly off?
VTSI BOard of Directors, Please explain?
With as much Kelly bashing that has gone on on this board, I am surprised that this isn't being seen as positive news.
Further,
here is alink to the marcosys home page. It is interesting how similar the language is, between what Virtra has and what they want.
http://www.ntsc.navy.mil/EBusiness/BusOps/Forecast/Files/PM_TRASYS_APBI_Brief_05_May_2004R.pdf
Especially the DVTE or deployable virtual training environment, and the ismt-msg for Marine Security Guards which is 170 units. I believe in a conference call this opportunity was refferred to as on again off again.
It is nice to see that the majority of these initiatives have not yet been satisfied. Hopefully Virtra has some foot in the door.
Several of them say that the contract is expected to come to fruition in April 2005. None of them have, so hopefully we have a chance.
In hindsight, I wish I had sold at .40 and bought in again now.
Doug,
What do you make of this:
April 13 2005
Statement to the Senate Armed Services Committee, Lieutenant General Dennis M. McCarthy
http://www.senate.gov/~armed_services/statemnt/2005/April/McCarthy%2004-13-05.pdf
“We have also been able to phase out our legacy simulator systems with the purchase of fifty Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer-Enhanced, ISMT-E, systems.”………..
“Continued Congressional funding for Marine Corps equipment procurement/replacement will remain vital in order for the service to continue to do what the Nation asks, and I am confident that you will continue to respond to the needs of your Marine Corps.”
I know that ISMT-E is the Marine Corps program, and not the name of the commercial simulator. WHo has announced the 50 unit sale that he refers to?
Further could "legacy systems" refer to FATS?
Sirfelix,
You can't honestly believe that this translates into immediate dilution of 18 million shares.
Upon your review, I am confident you will be satisfied with the terms we have negotiated with Dutchess. One of the features you will see that Andy Wells and I negotiated was the right to redeem the debenture prior to conversion. We remain very sensitive to undue pressure on our stock resulting from excess supply, and reaffirm our commitment to moving this company forward while minimizing dilution.
Here is a scenario:
army orders $10 million of simulators for delivery in August.
Virtra needs $3 million for deposits to vendors, for screens, cpus, projectors, and whatever the hell else these simulators are made of.
Dutchess buys $3 million dollars worth of shares as per their financing contract, laid out in the current 8-k.
Virtra builds simulators, delivers in August and collects $10 million.
Virtra then settles the $3 million debenture with Dutchess prior to conversion on the open market.
There is no dilution.
You are purposely trying to degrade the integrity of this type of financing, by misrepresenting the truth.
cheers
b-17
Interesting read on the changing scope of Marine Corps warfare, dated 11/04
The Marine Corps must make a significant investment in urban combat training facilities. The Corps should establish large training facilities (at least a square mile) both in the continental United States and overseas. The facilities should include large, fenced-off, live-fire zones with realistic and rapidly repairable structures that will allow for combined small arms-air-artillery live-fire training. The portions of these new training facilities for maneuver and long-term operations should incorporate numerous types of construction that represent various regions of the world. Opposition forces should be established at each facility to act as a consistent, thinking enemy. When units are not engaged with a thinking, moving enemy, they should fight simulated, computerized foes. Squads of Marines could train in a warehouse-sized room surrounded by interactive video screens, working to develop their urban decision-making and fighting skills with instant feedback. In addition, each barracks (not just infantry) should be equipped with urban video games such as modern versions of the groundbreaking Marine Doom.[5] Though videos games often have a “Generation X” feel about them, and older Marines may shudder at the thought of training in front of a television or computer monitor, Corps-developed or even off-the-shelf video games undoubtedly will help build the urban warfare ethos.
Here is the link:
www.military.com/NewContent/0,13190,NI_1104_Urban-P2,00.html
Dennis,
This could be a little far-fetched, but maybe "the competition" is looking for a new sub-contractor. I believe FATS was involved in the first 2 of these:
LOCKHEED MARTIN AWARDED $30 MILLION CONTRACT FOR CLOSE COMBAT TACTICAL TRAINER PROGRAM
ORLANDO, FL, December 13, 2004 -- Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE: LMT) was awarded a $30 million contract for the Fiscal Year 2005 Close Combat Tactical Trainer (CCTT) program. The CCTT is an operational distributed interactive simulation (DIS) system and is part of the Combined Arms Tactical Trainer (CATT) family of virtual trainers.
CCTT is composed of computer-driven combat vehicle simulators and emulator workstations that operate interactively over local and wide area networks. Lockheed Martin supplies the U.S. Army with CCTT equipment to train soldiers in a variety of combat vehicles including M1A1 and M1A2 tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicle, and HMMWV (HumVees).
Produced in Orlando, Lockheed Martin received the initial CCTT development contract in 1992 and began full-rate production in 1999.
“This contract builds on our past support to CCTT, which consists of designing and building simulators for the Abrams tanks and Bradley fighting vehicles used by the U.S. Army,” said Dan Crowley, President of Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training & Support. “This is one of many simulation programs that are directly aiding the warfighter in Afghanistan and Iraq. We also believe that CCTT is providing soldiers realistic training enabling them to adapt more quickly to the combat environment.”
Through computer workstations, CCTT adds logistics, artillery, mortar, and aviation units to a synthetic battlefield depicting real-world terrain. Warfighters move, shoot, and communicate on this battlefield by operating with or riding inside combat vehicles and employing simulated weapon systems. CCTT components have passed rigorous U.S. Army validation against actual weapon systems, tactical doctrine, and behaviors.
The system allows commanders to train their unit's unique collective tasks in a myriad of virtual environments including day, night, and varying visibility conditions, in conjunction with selectable enemy capability and skill levels.
“CCTT provides real-time, interactive collective task training for units from individual crews to battalion task force levels,” said Andre Elias, Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training & Support program director for virtual training solutions. CCTT also adds growth capability to a Brigade Combat Team.”
Key features of CCTT include DIS, manned simulation modules with high-fidelity visuals, realistic terrain and entity models, fixed and mobile configurations, intelligent semi-automated forces (SAF), real-time data logging, and after-action-review capabilities.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2003 sales of $31.8 billion.
b17
Hello again Greg,
I have a question about the ITSEC show. As you and Doug were milling about the booth, Michael, Jerry, and Kelly, what was the overall nature of the interest there. Did people try the simulator out say it was nice and move on? Or did they see the technology, find their higher ups, and wisk Kelly away into a corner to talk business?
Further, was there much talk of the expense of the units, and if so what were some of the reactions?
Last question, if someone at the show was interested in making a purchase would they talk to Kelly Michael or both?
If so, was there interest in actual purchases or just in the unique technology.
thanks in advance,
b17
Another lovely read. I recommend that everyone google search for virtra related links. I have been finding some great stuff. Sorry about the length of this post but I haven't learned to post a link yet. The following is a budget request from some town budget meeting. Go to the end. At least people want virtra's technology...I typed in police virtra training simulator and this was on the second search page.
This is the html version of the file http://www.duluth-ga.com/Meetings/2004/05-10-04pub.pdf.
G o o g l e automatically generates html versions of documents as we crawl the web.
To link to or bookmark this page, use the following url: http://www.google.com/search?q=cache:bjOvrnHLMmwJ:www.duluth-ga.com/Meetings/2004/05-10-04pub.pdf+po...
Google is not affiliated with the authors of this page nor responsible for its content.
These search terms have been highlighted: police training simulator virtra
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AGENDA MAYOR AND COUNCIL MAY 10, 2004 CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Shirley Fanning-Lasseter INVOCATION:Youth Minister Brian Holland, Duluth First Baptist PLEDGE: Boy Scout Pack 421, Scoutmaster Chris SuttonWELCOME RESIDENTS:McClure Place/Nesbitt CrossingI. CEREMONIAL MATTERS 1. APPRECIATION AND WELCOME HOME FOR SERVICEMEN Mayor Lasseter to recognize Duluth residents Mark Pombo and Jeff Wagner, and present them with tokens of appreciation for their service to our country after assignments in Iraq. Both Mark and Jeff are Specialists and were stationed at Log Base Seitz, west of the Baghdad airport in the Sunni triangle, between Fallujah and Baghdad. Graduating from Duluth High School in 2001 and 2000 respectively, the two actually met when they were called to active duty in February 2003. 2. PROCLAMATION – FIBROMYALGIA AWARENESS DAY Mayor Lasseter to proclaim May 12, 2004 as “Fibromyalgia Awareness Day” and ask citizens to support the search for a cure for this chronic illness. II. CONSENT AGENDA 1. APPROVAL OF THE APRIL 26, 2004 MINUTES 2. RESOLUTION & INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT– PROPERTY TRANSFER Approval of this item authorizes property transfers from the City to the Downtown Development Authority (DDA). Said properties are tax parcels 6-293-035 (Old Cleaners, 3146 Old Peachtree Road) and 6-293-036 (Old Napa Store, 3152 Old Peachtree Road) which are located in the Central Business District. 3. DYBSA SPRING 2004 CONTRACT – BUNTEN ROAD PARK Approval of this item authorizes the Mayor to sign a revised version of the DYAA/DYBSA contract as amended by the DYBSA Board and reviewed by the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. III. PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. ORDINANCE OF REZONING O-I to POD Z#0208-04TODD BARKER/CALVARY CHRISTIAN TAX PARCEL 7-207-003 This public hearing is to consider a request to rezone a 18.399 acre portion of tax parcel 7-207-003 from O-I (Office Institutional) to POD (Planned Office Development) to allow a church and related uses. The applicant wishes to construct 83,235 square feet of church buildings with a 480 seat sanctuary, church related
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M&C Work Agenda May 10, 2004 Page 2 of 4 2uses, and two recreational ball fields. In addition to the rezoning request, five waivers are requested, relating to height of buildings, parking, street width, open space and landscape buffer. Phase 1 will consist of a 32,112 (16,056 square feet per floor) square feet, 480 seat new sanctuary. Future phases will add an additional 51,123 square feet to the project within three phases. For the remainder of this 41-acre property, there is an associated request under a separate public hearing to rezone the 23.34 acre portion of this tax parcel from O-I to Planned Residential Development (PRD) to allow for eighty-seven 87 single-family lots. The subject property was annexed into the City on December 8, 2003 and rezoned from M-1 and C-1 (County) to O-I (Office-Institutional) (City) on the back portion of the property and C-1 (City) for two (2) frontage parcels along Buford Highway. The property was previously approved as a Special Use Permit (SUP) in Gwinnett County, and part of the approval of the annexation and rezoning into the City of Duluth carried over the same conditions of the SUP. Staff and the Planning Commission reviewed and recommended approval with conditions. The applicant has since submitted revised plans (dated May 5, 2004) regarding the “future parking areas” shown on the original plan (dated April 13, 2004). As such, the original recommended conditions may require modification. 2. ORDINANCE OF REZONING O-I to PRD Z#0207-04GUYNN-MCGOWAN/CALVARY CHRISTIAN TAX PARCEL 7-207-003 This public hearing is to consider a request to rezone a 23.34 acre portion of tax parcel 7-207-003 from O-I (Office Institutional) to PRD (Planned Residential Development) to allow an 87 single-family lot subdivision at a density of 3.73 units per acre. The proposed PRD plan incorporates many Traditional Neighborhood Design (TND) elements within a binding site plan. In addition to the rezoning request, six waivers are requested concerning road frontage, mass grading, reduction of right-of-way, stub-out street, and two open space issues. As mentioned in the first public hearing, this property contains a total of 41 acres. Calvary Christian Fellowship is proposing to sell the 23.34 acres and to develop their church on the remaining eighteen acres of the property. The City of Duluth Zoning Ordinance requires that if the project were approved as a PRD development, it would be bound to the submitted site plan with only minor revisions allowed. In order to make major changes to the site plan, the project would have to be resubmitted for approval by the City Council. Staff and the Planning Commission recommend approval with conditions. Staff also recommends approval of all the waiver requests with the exception of the stub-out street waiver request, and the Planning Commission recommended maintaining of the 20% undisturbed open space requirement. The applicant has since submitted revised plans (dated May 3, 2004) to address some of the conditions of approval from the Planning Commission. 3. CITY OF DULUTH FISCAL YEAR 2005 BUDGET PRESENTATION City Administrator Phil McLemore will present the Fiscal Year 2005 Budget. As per State law, cities are required to hold a public hearing prior to adopting the annual operating budget. Approval of an ordinance for the final adoption of the FY05 City of Duluth operating budget will be considered by Council on May 24th.
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M&C Work Agenda May 10, 2004 Page 3 of 4 3IV. NEW BUSINESS 1. FEE WAIVER REQUEST – TOWN GREEN – WORLD CHANGERS The Mayor and Council to consider a request to waive all fees for World Changers on Friday, July 30, 2004 from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. for hosting an event on the Town Green. Factors for consideration are: 1) Attendant Fee: A City staff person will need to be asked to work this event on flextime. 2) Council must decide if a police officer is needed at the event and whether that fee will be waived. Approximately 300 people are expected to attend. 3) Clean up fees can be waived only if the organization using the facilities agrees to pick up all trash and bag it, empty all trash receptacles and place all bagged garbage into the dumpster. As this is for the Town Green, the Festival Center Building is to remain locked. 2. FISCAL YEAR 2003 AUDIT PRESENTATION – HAWKINS & MCNAIR City Auditor Jerry Hawkins will present the Fiscal Year 2003 Audit Report. V. MATTERS FROM CITIZENS VI. MATTERS FROM COUNCIL/DEPT HEADS 1. REQUESTED PURCHASES – POLICE DEPARTMENT FEDERAL DRUG FUND Chief Belcher to request the following expenditures to be made from the Federal Drug Fund account: 1. Portable Radios and Mobile Radios - $283,755.00 for 60, XTS 5000 portable radios and 15, XTL 5000 mobile radios to replace the current police radios. Gwinnett County Public Safety will be changing the county wide 800 MHz trunking radio system to digital in five years and our current radios will no longer be compatible with Gwinnett County radio system at that time. 2. Forensic Computer - $8,000 for the purchase of a forensic computer to be used in drug cases, child pornography and other criminal cases involving computers. This computer will allow investigators to retrieve information from other computers even if said computer has been erased. 3. Prisoner Transport Vehicle - $48,450 for the purchase of a 2004 Dodge Sprinter to be used as a prisoner transport van to transport prisoners from the arrest location (vehicle stops, drug raids, etc.) and transported to the Gwinnett County Jail. This price also includes the prisoner compartments and insulation. 4. Canopy System - $198,178.50 for the purchase of a Wireless Internet Based Video Surveillance System (Canopy). This system will be used to monitor criminal and drug activity in all city owned parks and other city owned property. This system will also be used to monitor traffic flow at major intersections. The Canopy System will also allow the city to connect our computer systems to each other without the use of a T1 line which we have to pay a monthly fee. Therefore the Canopy System will save the city thousands of dollars per year.
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M&C Work Agenda May 10, 2004 Page 4 of 4 45. Video Analyst System 410 - $24,440 for the purchase of a Video Analyst System. This system includes the required computer hardware, software and peripheral equipment necessary to import, enhance, and analyze, reproduce and archive all commonly found types of analog and digital video media. 7. IVR - 300 – $140,000 is a Judgmental Use-of-Force Training Simulator System. This system is similar to the Fat's (Firearms Training Simulator) which uses one eight-foot screen. The IVR -300 VirTra Systems has developed the world's first firearms training system that includes a completely immersive, 300 degree environment, incorporation the realistic sensations of sight, touch and sound. With IVR - 300 use-of-force training systems, instructors can train for multiple threats from all quarters, train target tracking from 0 - 300 degrees, train to avoid "tunnel vision"' reducing surprise attack from focused threat; and identify the strengths and weaknesses of an officer or partners in contact and cover situations, multiple threats from a wide spectrum, and total environmental awareness. VII. ADJOURNMENT
Lovely Read....
Military Procurement International Vol. 14, No. 5, March 1, 2004
Copyright DAPSS S.A., 2004, Switzerland. It is unlawful to reproduce any of this publication without written permission from the publisher.
Click here to go to the previous page
INDIA
Infantry Weapon Effects Simulators sought
The Indian Army has issued a global tender for 2,000 Infantry Weapon Effects Simulator Systems (IWESS) worth some US$100 million. The outdoor systems will be deployed at infantry training schools, to allow trainees to fire at live targets without bullets. Hits scored by each soldier will be electronically recorded and stored in a computer. The simulators are required to be delivered within two years of contract signature, and more may be purchased later.
Bidders are expected to include: Mumbai-based Nikunj Eximp Enterprises, which signed a deal with Austin, Texas-based VirTra Systems Inc. in January (MPI February 1, 2004, page 11); the USA’s Lockheed Martin and Cubic Corp.; and Sweden’s Saab Training Systems. © DAPSS S.A., 2004, Switzerland
Interesting point: "In the future, I'd like to see Virtra Systems offer a full-scale virtual shoothouse with multiple rooms that the trainee can actually move through."
This makes alot of sense. Though obviously a much more complex system. How about a multi room simulator? AN IVR 240x5, in effect a multi room immersive simulator that a trainee can walk through. Clearing each space room by room. For law enforcement it could prepare officers for situations like Columbine, and for military personnel it could prepare them for house to house building searches in Iraq.
I am sure Kelly and the boys have plenty of spare time, so let's keep pushing the envelope.
After all we are the world leader in immersive training technology. We used to be 15 months ahead of the competition, let's make it 30 months.
keep up the good work guys.
b-17
www.defensereview.com
Virtra Systems IVR-300 HD Use-of-Force Training Simulator. Immerse Yourself.
Posted on Saturday, May 01 @ 20:44:37 PDT by davidc
Of all the products displayed at Trexpo East 2004, DefRev enjoyed this one the most. It's called the IVR-300 HD/IVR-360 HD Use-of-Force Training Simulator System. Its manufacturer, Virtra Systems, refers to the technology as "immersive virtual reality", and to be honest, I can't come up with a description that's more accurate than that.
Basically, what the Virtra Systems IVR-360 HD/IVR-300 HD does is place the student/trainee inside a virtual, interactive environment that forces him/her to make fast judgements in various tactical scenarios that play out on the surrounding screens. Distilled to a single sentence, the IVR simulator is essentially a one-room, virtual shoothouse that immerses a student in limitless real world-mimicking tactical scenarios. The moment-to-moment and ultimate outcomes of these scenarios are based on...
the student's voice commands and actions, since the instructor, watching everything the student says and does, controls what the virtual and potentially hostile subjects do. Thus, the interactive part. So, the student controls his or her own destiny, so to speak. The only limit to the number of scenarios that can be presented are time and money, since each scenario must first be filmed with actors playing the roles of assorted misguided and deranged people, i.e., domestic-abusers, car thieves, maniacal bomb-wielding, hostage-taking terrorists...you know, the usual. The screens can either completely surround the student, as on the IVR-360 HD and, to a slightly lesser extant, IVR-300 HD models, or they can be laid out in front of the student in a flat 180o display, known as the IVR-180 HD.
Fortunately, DefRev got a chance to demo the Virtra Systems IVR-300 HD at the Virtra Systems booth at TREXPO West. The instructor, Jerry Long (Virtra System's Military and Law Enforcement Sales Director), ran me through one warm-up scenario, and three different tactical problems/scenarios during my demo. The warm-up was an (virtual) outdoor pepper-popper target warm-up, to get me used shooting the simulator Glock pistol, and to tune up my shooting skills a bit. The simulator Glock pistol, made by Dvorak Instruments, utilizes an air recoil system, to make the firing experience as realistic as possible.
Anyway, before I knew it, I was standing in the middle of a virtual field out in the country somewhere, surrounded by stationary virtual steel pepper-poppers. When the instructor gave me the go ahead, I peppered and popped the targets, attacking them left-to-right. Got through that one o.k. Then I was presented to the first tactical scenario, a domestic situation. Second tactical scenario was a crazed terrorist with a bomb strapped to his torso. That was certainly interesting. The final scenario was a group of gangbanger-type thugs/car thieves. Let's just say that during this scenario, you'd better use your peripheral vision and instincts. All I'll say about these tactical scenarios (since I don't want to give too much away) is that they all presented interesting and challenging (and dare I say, exciting) problems that I had to solve.
Challenging how? Well, act (i.e. use your weapon) too late, and you (and others) end up dead--either blown up or shot. Act too soon (i.e. jump the gun, so to speak), and you're looking down what, in the real world, would be the wrong end of an internal revenue investigation and lawsuit. Virtra Systems could have run me through a lot more scenarios of course, but time was a factor, and they had a lot of attendees waiting to test their skills against the system. So, they kicked me out after three (tactical) scenarios.
DefRev really had a blast (no pun intended) demoing the system, and would advise any LE agency or unit looking for a cutting edge virtual training simulator take a serious look at the Virtra Systems IVR Use-of-Force Training Simulator, and give it a T&E. LE agencies and military organizations/units interested in either learning more about or purchasing a Virtra Systems simulator should contact Jerry Long at 817-261-4269, or via email at jlong@virtratraining.com.
In the future, I'd like to see Virtra Systems offer a full-scale virtual shoothouse with multiple rooms that the trainee can actually move through.
So, whe're do I see the technology heading? Two words: holographic projection. I have a sinking suspicion that LE students/trainees of the future will have to deal with holograpic badguys in 3D. Aahhh, grasshopper, now I gotcha' thinkin', huh? The future's good.
Click here to watch Virtra Systems’ latest product video, with testimonials from TREXPO, in Windows Media Player. Click here to watch the same video in Real Player, if you have a DSL or Cable Modem connection, or click on this link if you have a 56K modem.
If you like to see CNN’s “Tech TV Special Report” coverage of the Virtra Systems IVR Simulator, here are the links for that:
Windows Media Player: DSL/Cable or 56K, or choose Real Media: DSL/Cable or 56K.
CNN HEADLINE NEWS just plugged the new training system again, with video footage from inside an IVR 300....at 6:31 eastern they flashed it, hopefully it will air before the hour is up.
b-17
that was the cc from april or may of 2003, and I believe Kelly refers to that as the TSA contract. I wasn't sure if something of that magnitude could re-open, but here's hoping.
b-17
Greg, this was my thought process…
4/7/04 conference call
Deneefe: That was easy enough. The fast-track project with the U.S. government that you’ve mentioned a couple of times. Can you speak about projected units, and type of units that they’re looking at?
Jones: This would be for an initial IVR-300 HD, a single unit. But, I can also tell you that, I’ve got to be careful here, another department of this very same agency, we’ll just say branch, contacted us today and there is a distinct possibility that something I have discussed with the shareholders previously may re-open which would be, I think you’d say, a massive project.
1/23/04 investors meeting
They lost a 4 million dollar Air Force contract to AIS. They came into the bidding process close to the end and didn’t expect to get the contract they just did it as a learning experience and almost stole the contract from AIS. The Air Force delayed issuing the award for 4 weeks because of Virtra and it came down to price the project was already funded and Virtra’s price was higher than AIS. Now the Air Force is contacting Virtra asking them to bid on other Air Force projects. They seem pretty confident that they would have gotten the contract if they were in it from the beginning.
Maybe this is the contract that re-opened.
Air Force being the common denominator
b-17
Greg, in Kelly's letter from the CEO he did not allude to the fact that this was indeed the "sole source," "fast track" simulator deal. If it was the "fast track" deal, don't you think he would have hyped it in the press release....I for one am hoping that the "fast track" deal is one of the many other "irons in the fire" to another branch of the armed services.
cross your fingers
b-17
web link
www.cbd-net.com/index.php/search/show/561464
Interesting ad for what would seem to be a "fast track" simulator.
General Information
Document Type: PRESOL
Posted Date: Mar 12, 2004
Category: Training Aids and Devices
Set Aside: N/A
Contracting Office Address
Department of the Navy, Naval Air Systems Command, Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division, 12350 Research Parkway Code 253, Orlando, FL, 32826-3224
Description
PEO STRI is soliciting information regarding the availability of virtual training systems to be utilized to train drivers and gunners of military vehicles to identify a potential ambush, how to identify improvised explosive devices (IEDs), how to avoid an ambush, how to return fire, maneuver and to react appropriately in the Contemporary Operating Environment (COE). HISTORY: Recent combat operations have demonstrated the need for convoy combat training. Our soldiers are more vulnerable than what we expected performing vehicular patrols and engaging in convoy operations. PURPOSE:The purpose of this RFI is to assess for the Army existing training device solutions or solutions that could be provided as training devices in three (3) months to meet current known convoy operation training deficiencies. Based on this assessment, the Army could potentially pursue an urgent sole-source acquisition. Any award for a Virtual Combat Convoy Trainer would be made pursuant to FAR 6.302-2 Unusual and Compelling Urgency to that firm who provides the best overall value to the Government in the area of technical, schedule and price. Technical is somewhat more important than schedule with price being the least important element. When combined technical and schedule are more important than price. REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI): Interested parties are requested to review the requirements and information stated below and provide your written responses NLT 22 Mar 2004, which may be followed by a demonstration of your system at a location to be later identified. The demo is tentatively scheduled for the week 5-9 April. The Government reserves the right, based on its review of the provided documentation, to issue a invitation to the demo or not. Demos are at an offerors own expense. The demonstration will include a technical assessment of the system by PEO STRI as to the systems capability to meet or exceed the goals as set below. There will be a question and answer period for users with the contractors, which will be followed by a PEO STRI recommendation to the proponent. GOALS: 1. Trainer must simulate attacks by assailants with small arms, rocket propelled grenades (RPGs), improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and a combination of these methods. 2. All threat weapons systems must be correctly depicted. IEDs are typically made from artillery rounds, mines, plastic explosives, RDX (extremely powerful powdered explosive), and ammonium nitrate combined with diesel fuel. Visual models of threats must be accurate, in accordance with the COE. 3. Ambushes must correctly depict the execution of ambushes in the COE from arrangement to execution. The trainer shall correctly indicate friendly forces that are disabled, injured or killed in the scenario. 4. System must allow for scenario editing the combination of threat weapons, assailants, and techniques and the operational environment. The scenario must accurately simulate the COE to include non-combatants, urban clutter, and the consequences of engagements. The trainer shall have the capability to edit terrain, allowing the instructor to replicate any environment in the COE. 5. The trainer must demonstrate and score the consequences for the use of tactics techniques and procedures and reward proper technique and identify areas for improvement. 6. Trainer must accommodate current US military vehicles used in vehicle convoys, as they are employed in the COE. At a minimum, simulated vehicles must include the High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) and the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT). Vehicle personnel must include the driver, the gunner in the turret ring and several additional riflemen as appropriate. Each shooter must be able to view the environment independent of other soldiers and react individually. 7. Trainer must accommodate the current US military weapons used to defend convoys. 8. The trainer must have an After Action Review (AAR) system or process that includes simultaneously capturing virtual data and voice communications for playback and analysis. 9. There must be a plan for total support for the trainer in improved and austere environments. Exchange of damaged parts must occur within five working days or turn in of the damaged component. The trainer must have a mean time between failures of 500 hours and the possibility of a warranty for a period of at least 3 years. 10. The trainer must be rapidly fielded, deployed and employed in improved and austere environments. 11. Trainer must be easily transportable by C5/C17 or ocean vessel. 12. Trainers must be available for fielding within the next 3-6 months, preferably 3 months. INFORMATION REQUIRED 1. Description of trainer currently available and how each of the above goals are met or exceeded. 2. Lead time for manufacture of trainers and production capacity and capability 3. Describe the system safety issues. 4. Supportability of trainer. 5. Price range for trainer. 5. There must be a full description of the set-up and tear-down of the trainer. 6. POC of customers that are currently using this trainer or similar products. 7. If your company's trainer does not currently meet the stated requirements, lead time required to have compliant trainers and modifications required. 8. Past Performance: Years of experience in building virtual trainers. 9. Listing of Software/hardware being delivered with less than Government Purpose Rights. 10. Describe proposed Warranty PLEASE PROVIDE REQUESTED INFORMATION TO THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUALS: MR. NORBERT GRANCHI 407.384.5387 norbert.granchi@peostri.army.mil MRS PATRICIA HYLAND 407-380-4037 Patricia.hyland@peostri.army.mil
Original Point of Contact
POC Patricia Hyland, Contract Specialist, Phone 407-380-4037, Fax 407-380-4164, - Marcia Yount, Contract Specialist, Phone 407-380-4056, Fax 407-380-4164,
Place of Performance
Email: patricia_hyland@peostri.army.mil, marcia_yount@peostri.army.mil
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