DEFENSE STUDIES

16 September 2016

The Sikorsky MH-60R "Romeo" Seahawk helicopter "2-4" which is the 24th and final Romeo military helicopter to be delivered to the Royal Australian Navy from Sikorsky Defence Systems and Services as part of AIR9000 Phase 8. (photo : RAN)

24th and final MH-60R Seahawk delivered to Royal Australian Navy

The last of Navy's 24 MH-60R maritime combat helicopters was accepted by Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Tim Barrett, in a ceremony at Lockheed-Martin’s Logistics and Maintenance Facility at Nowra’s Aviation Technology Park on Monday 12 September.

The MH-60R Romeo is considered the most advanced maritime combat helicopter in the world. The Commonwealth of Australia chose the Romeo in June 2011 to fulfil the Australian Defence Force’s requirement for a fleet of new generation, multi-role naval combat aircraft.

In addition to the Romeo’s primary role of anti-submarine and anti surface warfare, it also has the capability for secondary missions including search and rescue, vertical replenishment, naval surface fire support, logistics support, personnel transport and medical evacuation.

Vice Admiral Barrett said the acceptance of the final aircraft marks a major milestone in the next phase of naval aviation.

“What is happening here at Nowra, and has been happening over the last couple of years, is a reflection of where our navy has to go. The Fleet Air Arm has been reinvigorated with new squadrons - 808 and 725, new equipment - the Romeo the MRH90 and future equipment such as the Helicopter Aircrew Training System which will arrive here shortly.

“This has not been an easy ride. There have been challenges along the way but what I have seen from the Fleet Air Arm , and all those associated with the development of these new projects, has been the ability to take these challenges and solve them, solve them through agile thinking, solve them through innovative thinking and solve them through a sense of purpose about where we need to go.

“This Navy is about to completely recapitalise over the next 15 years and it’s those same attributes that we need to see the rest of Navy follow.

“I see the way that we have to look forward to deliver future capabilities to government and I consider that what has been demonstrated here is the best in how you achieve that.”

“Since deciding on the helicopter in December 2011, we have already gained a lot through this project, including initial operating capability last August,” Vice-Admiral Barrett said.
“We have three flights at sea at the moment. We have great training from 725 Squadron and we have 816 Squadron operating these aircraft at sea.

“This is the future of Naval Aviation, alongside those other squadrons providing new aircraft and new equipment to both train and support the combat role provided by Romeo.

“But it is a team effort - it is Lockheed Martin, it is Sikorsky, it is the Capability Acquisition Sustainment Group, the Romeo project office, the United States Navy, the Naval Aviation Systems Program Office and the Fleet Air Arm, most noticeably 725 and 816 Squadrons.

“But it also the contractors, subcontractors and locals who have allowed us to put this entire capability together, I acknowledge you all.

“We have done the right thing in the way we have brought Romeo into service and this system is worthy of any operator of Romeos anywhere in the world.”

The event included a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Logistics and Maintenance facility which support the new fleet. While Fleet Air Arm personnel will perform day-to-day operational maintenance on the Romeo fleet, Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky will support the RAN through the Maritime Helicopter Support Company (MHSCo), which provides Through Life Support logistics which will sustain peak flight readiness for the Romeo helicopters during the fleet’s estimated 30-year lifespan.

(RAN)

16 September 2016

RTAF A340-500 aircraft (photo : TAF)

Former THAI A340-500 completed the test flight after the retrofit and painting. The 4-engines airliner will be commissioned in the 602 sq. (Royal Guard) as the RTAF new transport aircraft.

A340 will be operated in the 603 sqn for personal transport.

(TAF)

17 September 2016

F/A-50PH (photo : rappler)

DND allots PHP106.1-M for FA-50PH gun system ammo

MANILA (PNA) --- The Department of National Defense (DND) has allocated PHP106,138,800 for the purchase of 20mm rounds for the A-50 gun system of the Philippine Air Force (PAF)'s brand-new FA-50PH jet fighters.

The sum is equivalent to 93,600 rounds of 20mm munition. Funds for this project will be sourced from the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund.

Delivery of the ammunition shall be in two batches. The first batch shall be delivered within 180 calendar day’s period from the receipt of Notice to Proceed and the second batch shall be delivered within 360 calendar days from Receipt of Notice to proceed.

Bidders should have completed, within 10 years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the project.

Pre-bid conference is slated on Sept. 26, 10: 30 a.m. at the DND Bidding and Awards Conference Room, Right Wing Basement, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

The Philippines has a 12 FA-50PH order from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) worth Php18.9 billion.

The first two units arrived last Nov. 28 with the remaining 10 to be delivered during 2016 and 2017.

The FA-50PHs has a top speed of Mach 1.5 or one and a half times the speed of sound and is capable of being fitted air-to-air missiles, including the AIM-9 "Sidewinder" air-to-air and heat-seeking missiles aside from light automatic cannons.

It will act as the country's interim fighter until the Philippines gets enough experience of operating fast jet assets and money to fund the acquisition of more capable fighter aircraft.

Its design is largely derived from the F-16 "Fighting Falcon", and they have many similarities: use of a single engine, speed, size, cost, and the range of weapons.

KAI's previous engineering experience in license-producing the KF-16 was a starting point for the development of the FA-50PH.

The aircraft can carry two pilots in tandem seating. The high-mounted canopy developed by Hankuk Fiber is applied with stretched acrylic, providing the pilots with good visibility, and has been tested to offer the canopy with ballistic protection against four-pound objects impacting at 400 knots.

The altitude limit is 14,600 meters (48,000 feet), and airframe is designed to last 8,000 hours of service.

F/A-50PH (photo : PAF)

There are seven internal fuel tanks with capacity of 2,655 liters (701 US gallons), five in the fuselage and two in the wings.

An additional 1,710 liters (452 US gallons) of fuel can be carried in the three external fuel tanks.

Trainer variants have a paint scheme of white and red, and aerobatic variants white, black, and yellow.

The FA-50PH uses a single General Electric F404-102 turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin, upgraded with a full authority digital engine control system jointly developed by General Electric and Korean Aerospace Industries.

The engine consists of three-staged fans, seven axial stage arrangement, and an afterburner.

Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) of thrust with afterburner. (PNA)

DND in the market for FA-50PH countermeasures munition

MANILA (PNA) --- The Department of National Defense (DND) is allocating the sum of PHP33,702,286 for the acquisition of countermeasures munition for its FA-50PH jet fighters to protect it from hostile radar tracking and fire.

Money will be sourced from the AFP Modernization Trust Act Fund.

To be acquired are 17,280 RR-170 Chaffs and 8,640 MJU-7 IR Flares (with impulse cartridges) for the Countermeasure Dispenser System (Elbit Elisra SPS-45v5EX) installed in the FA-50PH with the corresponding initial integrated logistics support for the Philippine Air Force.

Delivery of the goods shall be in two batches. The first batch shall be delivered within 180 calendar days period from the receipt of Notice to Proceed and the second batch shall be delivered within 360 calendar days.

Bidders should have completed, within the last 10 years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the project.

Pre-bid conference is scheduled for Sept. 25, 9: 30 a.m. at the DND Bids and Awards Committee Conference Room, Right Wing Basement, DND Building, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. (PNA)

17 September 2016

Kapal selam KRI 403 (photo : pr1v4t33r)

Kapal selam pertama pesanan Indonesia buatan galangan kapal DSME Korea Selatan saat ini telah memasuki proses sea trial.

Kapal selam yang diperkenalkan kepada publik pada tanggal 24 Maret 2016 dalam seremoni acara launching ini secara resmi belum menyandang nama, namun telah memiliki nomor lambung 403. Menilik urutan nama saat Indonesia memiliki 12 kapal selam kelas Whiskey, maka nomor lambung 403 diperuntukkan untuk KRI Nagabanda.

Berdasarkan kontrak kapal selam pertama Type 209/1400 ini akan diserahkan kepada pemerintah Indonesia pada bulan Maret 2017.

Indonesia mencapai kesepakatan pembelian tiga kapal selam dengan DSME pada 20 Desember 2011. Sebanyak 2 kapal selam dibuat di Korea Selatan dan akan diserahkan tahun 2017. 1 kapal selam sisanya akan dirakit di galangan kapal PT PAL Surabaya dan diserahkan pada tahun 2018.

(Defense Studies)

17 September 2016

Shaanxi Y9 transport aircraft (photo : aircrafttotaal)

BANGKOK (Xinhua) -- The Thai Air Force is looking to procure a new fleet of transport aircraft in near future, an Air Force source said on Friday.

Competition for the planned procurement of new transport planes might probably emerge between Shaanxi Aircraft Corporation Y-9 and Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, said the source who spoke on condition of anonymity.

However, rivalry might as well arise from a third manufacturing country apart from China and the United States, whereas details of the procurement plan are yet to be formulated, he said.

Retiring Air Force chief Trithod Sonchaeng confirmed earlier that his service was looking to buy a new fleet of turboprop-engined transport aircraft to replace a dozen C-130H Hercules transport planes, deployed by the Thai Air Force since 1980.

His successor, newly-named Air Force chief Jom Roongsawang who is scheduled to assume the post next month, is likely to take into account such aircraft procurement plans, the source said.

Royal Thai Air Force Lockheed C-130H Hercules (photo : Ben King)

Over the last several years, 15 countries have placed orders for 300 C-130J transport planes, in production line at Lockheed Martin since 1996.

Shaanxi Aircraft Corportion modernized the Y-9 as variant from the Y-8 with updated technology in avionics and cargo handling systems.

Myanmar, the western neighbor to Thailand, currently deploys 10 Y-8 transport planes, the predecessor version of the Y-9.

Though funding and time frames for the planned procurement of new transport aircraft are yet to be determined, the ageing fleet of C-130H Hercules will almost certainly be decommissioned in the next several years, the source said.

The C-130J Super Hercules is reported to cost 100 million to 120 million U.S. dollars per unit while the selling price for the Shaanxi Y-9 is not available yet.

Earlier this month, a Shaanxi Y-9 transport plane joined a multi-national, non-combat exercise codenamed AM-HEx 2016 at U-tapao naval air base in eastern Thailand.

The Chinese air force took part in the humanitarian aid and disaster relief exercise alongside those of Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and the host country.

RTAF Saab Jas 39 Geipen (photo : Stamatis Alipasalis)

Viewed as a derivative of the Antonov An-12, the Shaanxi Y-9 can carry 25 tons of cargo and 106 passengers or 132 paratroopers.

Late last month, two Russian-built transport planes were delivered to the Thai Air Force. The Sukhoi Superjet 100LR transport planes, each of which was sold for 34 million U.S. dollars, will fly as a passenger plane for members of the Royal Household and other VIPs.

They were meant to join the Air Force's Boeing 737 and Airbus aircraft currently deployed on similar purposes.

Add four more Gripen

Meanwhile, the new Thai Air Force chief is expected to consider buying another four Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters to add to an existing squadron of a dozen multi-role combat aircraft of the same type from Sweden.

The Air Force has 12 Gripen fighters at Air Wing 7 in the southern Surat Thani province. The Gripen squadron was procured in 2008 to replace the U.S.-made F-5E Tiger fighters.

The Swedish fighter is reported to cost about 69 million U.S. dollars per unit.

(Xinhua)

17 September 2016

Armed Black Hawk (all photos : Miltech, defence24)

MSPO 2016: Lockheed Martin Presents Armed Black Hawk Helicopter

During MSPO 2016 in Kielce, Lockheed Martin unveiled an armed version of the Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. This configuration is designed for combat support of land forces (anti-armour, close air support, covering force, escort), however other variants, including MEDEVAC and transport, are available. Representatives of PZL-Mielec, a subsidiary of Sikorsky, said during MSPO 2016 that an armed version is already available for customers and is now being tested in the United States.

At the same time the Black Hawk “gunship” is offered to the Polish Army as an addition to new combat (assault) helicopters and new transport medium-class helicopters which are now being procured by Warsaw. It is worth a reminder that previously an armed Black Hawk was presented to the Polish audience during ANAKONDA 2016 multinational exercises and by PZL Mielec during a media press conference, also this year. However, this is its official debut at MSPO.

With a standard configuration an armed Black Hawk can take up to 13 troops on board without an advanced weapon system. A configuration with an advanced weapon system, with up to 8 troops on board (plus two gunners), includes two M-134 7,62 mm six-barrel rotary machine guns in gunner windows (8,000 rounds in total), sixteen AGM-114R HELLFIRE anti-tank missiles (a launcher can have either two or four rails, up to four launchers), two M261s, and up to 76 Hydra 70 mm rockets (a standard pod can accommodate 7 or 19 Hydra rockets, up to four pods).

Every HELLFIRE missile can be replaced by one launcher of DAGR 70 mm missiles (four per one launcher, integration required). Weight of a fully loaded DAGR launcher is 86.2 kg. Range of a DAGR missile is 6 km if launched from a minimal flight ceiling or 12 km if launched from 6,000 metres. The MIL-STD-1760 interface provides flexibility for carrying multiple laser-guided rockets.

Other optional weapons include the GAU-19/A miniguns and the FN M3M 12,7x99 mm machine gun (integration required) with 600 rounds in a standard pod (300 rounds optional). Its effective range is 2,000 metres, while the rate of fire is 950-1100 rounds per minute (rate is regulated). Two GAU-10s have 2,800 rounds in total. Its rate of fire is 1,300 rounds per minute. According to the producer, the Black Hawk helicopter with two M134 guns, eight HELLFIRE missiles and 38 Hydra 70mm rockets, has a ceiling of 6,000m and a maximum speed of 315 km/h.

Black Hawk’s weapon system is integrated by a fire control system provided by Elbit. It is equipped with the MX-10D optoelectronic payload for tactical surveillance and target acquisition.

This is the first time the producer is able to offer a full weapons system on the Black Hawk Helicopter. The previous owner of Sikorsky, UTC, was unable to do so due to internal regulations on arms sale, while Lockheed Martin, a current owner of Sikorsky, is free from such constraints. It is believed that if an armed Black Hawk is selected by Poland, several systems – including missiles – would be replaced by Polish products. During the presentation in Kielce the producer presented a UKM-2000 7.62x51 mm machinegun from the Polish ZM Tarnów as a potential crew-served weapon.

(Miltech)

17 September 2016

One of the New Zealand Defence Force’s new fleet of Seasprite helicopters has joined the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Otago on a resupply mission to the remote Kermadec Islands. (photo : RNZN)

NZDF's new Seasprite Helicopter off to Kermadecs

One of the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s (RNZAF) newly acquired fleet of Seasprite helicopters will help transport 23 government staff and about seven tonnes of vital equipment and supplies to the remote Kermadec Islands on its first operational mission with an offshore patrol vessel (OPV).

An SH-2G (I) Seasprite, one of eight that are being introduced into service this year, has joined the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Otago on a resupply mission to the Kermadec Islands from 12-23 September.

“Although the newer-model Seasprite was deployed on a frigate for a multilateral exercise in June, their deployment on an OPV is a major step forward in increasing the NZDF’s ability to support other government agencies in New Zealand and in the Pacific region. This also marks a major milestone in the modernisation of the Navy’s fleet,” Captain Dave McEwan, the Acting Maritime Component Commander, said.

Lieutenant Commander (LTCDR) Andrew Sorensen, the Commanding Officer of Otago, said the ship’s first stop would be at Macauley Island, where the Seasprite will drop off a Department of Conservation (DoC) representative and two dogs trained to detect rats and other pests.

HMNZN Octago P-148 (photo : odt)

Otago will travel next to Raoul Island, to resupply the DoC outpost there. About seven tonnes of goods, including food supplies, general equipment and a light utility vehicle, will be flown to the island in underslung loads.

“The NZDF provides logistical support to other government agencies and the resupply operation to the Kermadecs is a good example of that,” LTCDR Sorensen said.

National Maritime Coordination Centre manager Kevin Arlidge said the Seasprite’s deployment with an offshore patrol vessel would allow them to reach more inaccessible and remote parts of the Kermadecs and would widen the scope of the NZDF’s work in support of DoC and GNS Science.

Fourteen DoC staff, including mechanics, builders and specialists involved in the agency’s weed-eradication programme, will be flown from the ship to Raoul Island by the Seasprite.

Otago is also transporting three MetService personnel, who will carry out routine maintenance work on the automatic weather station on the island, two electronic technicians and three commercial divers from GNS Science, who will check the tsunami gauges, seismograph and Global Positioning System equipment, and a volcano chemist, who will check the volcano and crater lakes for seismic activity.

“The tsunami gauges are the first line of defence against tsunamis and are vital for public safety in New Zealand,” GNS Science volcanologist Brad Scott said. “The seismograph and GPS help GNS monitor for large earthquakes and submarine volcanic eruptions. So without NZDF support, we may not be able to keep this going.”

MetService staff will also install a lightning detection sensor on the island to serve as an early detection and warning system to mitigate against lightning hazards.

(RNZN)

19 September 2016

BT-3F amphibious tracked APC (photos : Misilles, images : Vestnik)

The latest Russian armored transporter BT-3F will differ increased capacity. It is capable of carrying 14 paratroopers and three crew members. The soldiers will be protected robust armor, and in their possession will be remote-controlled weapon stations with a machine gun 7.62 mm.

BT-3F first presented at the second International military-technical forum "Army 2016".

According to the observation of the terrain and sighting combat module is equipped with a body-thermal sight with laser rangefinder. In the future, can be installed virtually any remote-controlled unit with machine guns of 12.7 mm, 14.5 mm or 40-mm automatic grenade launcher.

Crew machine consists of a commander, assistant commander and driver.

Fully armored combat weight - 18.5 tons mobility characteristics -. like BMP-3.

For setting smoke screens to mask the system has a start-up smoke grenades and termodymovaya equipment.

To extinguish the fire inside the machine system installed fire-fighting equipment.

The use of an armored personnel carrier in the construction of commercially available components and assemblies significantly increases its reliability, allows for prototype testing at a reduced level and introduce BT-3F mass production in an unprecedentedly short period of time.

Easy armored design will quickly learn to work with him almost every crew qualification.

Details of this military machine, prepared by the Department of Strategic Communication Concern "Tractor plants", released in the magazine "Arsenal of the Fatherland." This publication has been distributed during the event in the park "The Patriot."

(Vestnik)

19 September 2016

HHI proposed downspec of the HDF-3000 frigates (image : HHI)

DND, SoKor firm to sign P16-B ship agreement

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of National Defense (DND) and a South Korean firm are set to sign a multibillion-peso deal for the purchase of two ships for the Navy, the first military contract to be inked under the Duterte administration.

The agency issued a notice of award to Hyundai Heavy Industries Inc. last Aug. 18 and a contract could be signed this month for the two new frigates, DND public affairs chief Arsenio Andolong told The STAR yesterday.

The notice of award is a document that declares a supplier as the winning bidder. It was formally accepted by Hyundai Heavy Industries last Wednesday.

“We were informed though that anytime this week, officials from Hyundai will be arriving in Manila to receive and review the Notice of Award,” Andolong said.

“Ten days after the formal receipt … the notice to proceed and contract for the project will be signed,” he added.

The P16-billion ships acquisition project is one of the biggest items in the military’s modernization program. It aims to enhance the Philippines’ territorial defense and disaster response capabilities.

Four companies submitted bids for the project: Hyundai, Indian firm Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers, Spanish shipbuilder Navantia S.A. and South Korea’s Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering Co.

Navantia and Daewoo were disqualified because of their failure to meet some technical requirements.

Garden Reach offered to supply the two frigates for P15.08 billion while Hyundai’s bid was P15.74 billion. Garden Reach was declared the lowest bidder but was disqualified during the post-qualification phase because of its failure to meet some financial requirements.

“Per government procurement law, if it is determined at the outset that the bidder has no financial capacity or it has financial capacity but its resources are thinly spread throughout too many ongoing contracts, it will not be allowed to participate in the bidding process,” Andolong said.

HDF-2000H is derivative and second generation of HDF-2000 with helicopter landing deck and hangar, applying stealth technology (image : HHI)

Hyundai, the company that offered the second lowest bid, was considered and was able to meet the post-qualification requirements.

“After the contract has been signed by both parties, DND will issue a notice to proceed for Hyundai to fulfill its contract obligation within the specified period of time,” Andolong said.

Qustioned from STX

A South Korean firm, however, questioned the DND’s decision to divide the frigate acquisition project into two components.

STX Offshore & Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. said the project, which was originally priced at P18 billion was divided into the bidding for the two vessels and their weapon system and the bidding for ammunition.

STX, one of the companies that expressed interest to join the bidding, said the Philippine government “shall be grossly disadvantaged with the modification in the bid structure, aside from committing a serious violation of the country’s existing procurement laws.”

“Splitting the Authorized Budget of Contract (ABC) and the items to be bid out after the first stage of the bidding, and before the second stage, is tantamount to changing the terms and conditions of the bid in the middle of the game,” the company said in a statement.

According to the company, the bidders were made to believe that the approved budget of contract is P18 billion and the items for bidding are the vessels, weapons system and ammunition.

“It is thus unfair for everyone, especially for those who failed to pass the initial stage, to have the terms substantially changed when the bid has already been submitted,” STX Korea said.

The Korean firm believes that the DND Bids and Awards Committee purposely split the project to make it appear that the winning bidder has offered the lowest price, now at P16 billion for the two vessels alone.

“One major effect of such modification is that there would be limited number of possible bidders for the ammunition considering that launchers are usually tailor fitted for certain kinds of ammunition.”

(PhilStar)

20 September 2016

BTR-3E1 of the Royal Thai Army (photo : TAF)

KIEV -. RIA Novosti Ukraine intends to cooperate with Thailand in the field of armored vehicles and to transfer technology BTR-3E1, reported Friday on the website of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine.

The report said that the Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleg Gladkovsky met with an official delegation of Thailand's Ministry of Defence, headed by Deputy Minister of General Udomdeem Sitabutrom.

"In the context of the cooperation development prospects of the Ukrainian side confirmed its readiness to cooperate in the development of Thailand's production of armored vehicles, including armored personnel carriers BTR-3E1, with the transfer of technologies", - said in a statement.

Gladkovsky focused on the implementation of the Ukrainian side the existing agreement for the supply of main battle tanks "Hold" and focused on the introduction of a package of measures to improve the quality and improvement of equipment and machinery, manufactured Ukrainian defense enterprises.

Thai party representatives expressed their interest in continuing cooperation and noted that they consider Ukraine as a reliable long-term partner with significant potential in the defense industrial sector.

(RIA Novosti)

20 September 2016

Kasta 2E2 radar of the Vietnam (all photos : KienThuc)

Vietnam air defense forces has long since turned out to be equipped with Kasata-2E2 radar capable to detect cruise missiles which flying extremely low.

Information about Kasta radar-2E2 has serviced of Air Defence - Air Force in the People's Army of Vietnam was revealed in the article about "Factory A29" of press room, Air Force. notably A29 have mastered a technology component to repair Kasta-2E2 radar modules.

With Kasta-2E2, the realm of possibility, the team's early warning radar of the Air Defence - Air Force was raised to a new level, almost complete protection networked motherland sky. Because this is the type of radar is capable of extremely good catch low altitude, can detect stealth cruise missiles which flying low to very low.

According to the Rosoboronexport, 39N6E Kasta-2E2 is a combination of low station started looking round 3 parameters are designed for control tasks the airspace and provide intelligence parameter range, the location and altitude of the target aircraft type (fixed aircrfat, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, cruise missiles fly low or ultra-low traction) with reflective section in conditions of low electromagnetic interference terrain and intense meteorological interference.

Kasta-2E2 radar complexes likely used for military operations and civilian diverse as: the operation of the Air Force air defense systems, coastal defense operations and border surveillance, coordination activities air traffic and airspace monitoring airport peak.

Kasta-2E2 radar combined with components designed to block blocks development of semiconductor lamps, signal processing blocks of digital and synchronized rejection resistant to electromagnetic interactions of other electronic weaponry works in the squad at close range (resistance to noise reaches 50dB), block error correction synchronous control, antenna transceiver blocks mounted on 14m high vehicles to detect low flying targets, antenna transceiver block 50m on high trailers, mass remote control station.

Kasta-2E2 combinations include : a transceiver ammunition vehicles; an enclosed rotating car antenna AD-30 power stations and transformers using grid power; a backup diesel power station located on the gear wheel wagon; 2 van pulling a passenger bridge accessories; a remote control station capable of radio control from a distance of up to 300m.

Kasta-2E2 started looking round low 5-150km range reconnaissance, 6km altitude, can begin sticking together no less than 50 goals, continuous operation is not less than 20 days.

Kasta-2E2 is a combination of effective radio and stability, convenient operation and safe, easy maintenance, convenient to transport on vehicles traffic, high noise resistance features, capable findings from long range target aircraft types flying low and slow small.

Unit price Kasta-2E2 system according to Rosoboronexport is about $ 30 million.

(KienThuc)

20 September 2016

JCG large patrol vessel (photo : Takaaki)

President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the acquisition of two (2) heavy weather, high endurance 94-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRVs) under the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project (MSCIP) for the Philippine Coast Guard, Phase II. The project will cost PhP8 billion. Vessels are expected to be delivered by November 2020 and March 2021 for each vessel.

The approval was made, September 14, during the first meeting of National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board under the Duterte administration. NEDA is an independent cabinet-level agency of the Philippine government responsible for economic development and planning. It is headed by the President of the Philippines as chairman of the NEDA board, with the Secretary of Socio-Economic Planning, concurrently NEDA Director-General, as vice-chairman.

The project will “provide the PCG with vessels with a cruising range capability of 4,000 nautical miles, can be used in Sea-State 6 (wave height of up to 6 meters) in rough sea condition, and are capable to conduct continuous maritime patrol up to 15 days at 15 knots,” NEDA said.

“Each vessel, as claimed by PCG, will enable them to recover as much as 500 passengers in the event of a maritime disaster, as well as provide the country with wider maritime coverage for strategic and national security purposes,” NEDA added.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and President Duterte, during their meeting at the sidelines of ASEAN Summit last week, talk about the supply of two large-sized patrol ships for Philippine Coast Guard.

Japan, through Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has granted the Philippine government Official Development Assistance (ODA) Loan for the first phase of Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in 2013. The said project is providing the PCG with 10 44-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels (MRRVs). The first MRRV was already delivered, succeeding deliveries are expected every quarter until completion of 10 units in 2018.

(Update)

20 September 2016

Anoa 6x6 (photo : defence.pk)

Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Indonesias Coordinating Minister for Political, Security and Legal Affairs Wiranto met with the commander of Pakistans armed forces, General Rashad Mahmood, here on Tuesday to discuss defense cooperation, including the exchange of information and defense equipment.

"We have also offered our defense equipment to them, including the Anoa armored vehicle, assault rifle and CN-235 aircraft," Wiranto said at his office.

The cooperation between Indonesia and Pakistan has been ongoing for years, marked by exchange of staff school students and commanders of the army, navy and air force, as well as staff members of the National Defense Institute (Lemhanas).

Wiranto also spoke about his experience participating in a joint exercise with Pakistani soldiers when he took part in the Army Command Staff School (Seskoad) in 1982.

"Relations between the two countries armies are very close. General Rashad Mahmood has asked for maintaining and developing that relationship," he said.

Wiranto, who was a former commander of the armed forces, also explained about the Indonesian governments attention to fight terrorism as part of efforts to promote peace, friendship and solidarity in the ASEAN region.

"They (Pakistan) wish Indonesia would continue with its efforts in leading the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), because peace in the region will bring a positive impact on other countries, including Pakistan," he said.

(Antara)

20 September 2016

5 pesawat tempur F-16 C/D akan segera melengkapi arsenal TNI AU (photo : net)

Lima Pesawat Tempur F-16 Bantuan AS Segera Tiba di Magetan

MAGETAN, KOMPAS.com - Lima unit pesawat tempur F-16 yang dihibahkan Pemerintah Amerika Serikat kepada TNI AU akan tiba di Pangkalan TNI Angkatan Udara Iswahjudi, Magetan, Jawa Timur, Rabu (21/9/2016).

Pemerintah Amerika Serikat menghibahkan pesawat tempur F-16 kepada TNI AU secara bertahap.

“Sembilan pesawat sudah diberikan satu tahun sebelumnya kepada TNI AU. Total seluruh pesawat tempur jenis F-16 yang akan dihibahkan ke TNI AU sebanyak 24 unit,” ujar Panglima Komando Operasi Udara 1, Marsma TNI Yuyu Sutisna, di Lanud Iswahjudi, Selasa (20/9/2016) siang.

Sutisna menuturkan, lima pesawat tempur F-16 yang dihibahkan pemerintah Amerika Serikat akan langsung digunakan dalam Latihan Puncak TNI AU Angkasa Yudha yang digelar akhir September di Tanjung Pandan, Bangka Belitung. Bahkan seluruh penerbang tempur yang akan mengoperasikan pesawat itu sudah disiapkan.

”Besok, begitu datang langsung dilakukan proses administrasi penerimaan dan langsung digunakan pada saat latihan ini,” kata Sutisna.

Dia menambahkan, pesawat yang diberikan adalah hibah tetapi masih diperlukan perbaikan. Untuk itu biaya perbaikan hibah ditanggung dari TNI AU.

Hadirnya lima pesawat tempur F-16 hibah dari Amerika Serikat akan menambah kemampuan maksimal dalam pra-latihan Angkasa Yudha. Lima pesawat F-16 yang baru dihibahkan Amerika Serikat rencananya akan diberikan skuadron baru di Pekan Baru bernama skuadron 16.

(Kompas)

21 September 2016

RNZN new tanker (all photos : Roll Royce)

Rolls-Royce has secured a milestone contract with Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) to provide a concept design based on the Rolls-Royce Environship Leadge Bow. This marks the first reference for the award-winning wave-piercing hull form in the naval sector. Rolls-Royce will also equip this new 23,000t Polar-class logistics support vessel, which will replace the New Zealand Defence Force’s 30-year-old tanker HMNZS Endeavour.

The prime contractor HHI will undertake detailed design and build the vessel as part of the NZDF’s Maritime Sustainment Capability (MSC) project, using the Rolls-Royce Environship concept design under licence.

Commenting on the contract, Sam Cameron, Rolls-Royce, Senior Vice President Sales and Business Development – Naval, said: “We see significant value in the Environship concept in the naval sector. Winning this milestone contract is of considerable importance to our naval ship design offering, which is new to Rolls-Royce.

“We have worked with HHI on a number of vessels, but this the first project in which we will collaborate on the conceptual design requirement. We look forward to working with HHI in delivering the MSC Support Ship and providing through-life support to the New Zealand Navy.”

The vessel will be based on a modified Environship hull form designed to meet NZDF requirements for a heavily winterised, ice–strengthened vessel capable of carrying out operations in a challenging Antarctic environment.

Aside from the bespoke Environship concept design, the Rolls-Royce scope of supply is extensive and includes a Combined Diesel Electric and Diesel (CODLAD) propulsion plant based on twin Bergen main engines. These will each drive, via reduction gears, a controllable pitch propeller. Rolls-Royce will also supply the propeller shafts.

Electrical power will be supplied by Rolls-Royce in the form of four MTU gensets from Rolls-Royce Power Systems, which will also provide power to the Rolls-Royce supplied switchboards, motors, drives, bow thruster and the electric RAS/FAS system, which allows for simpler and quieter replenishment/fuelling-at-sea operations. Rotary vane steering gear and rudders form part of a stand-alone package.

Ben Dunscombe, Rolls-Royce, Programme Executive – Asia, who is responsible for the delivery of the project, said: “We have pooled our resources across Rolls-Royce to bring together a unique array of our equipment to meet the specification. To meet the high winterisation and Polar Code 6 requirements, propellers and the main and auxiliary engines will be slightly larger.”

In what is an ambitious time frame, Rolls-Royce is scheduled to deliver equipment to the South Korean builder from 2018. The vessel is scheduled for a 2020 delivery.

(Rolls Royce)

21 September 2016

Kapal KRI I Gusti Ngurah Rai - 332 (photo : pr1v4t33r)

Fregat PKR-2 yang dinamakan KRI I Gusti Ngurah Rai (GNR) yang menyandang nomor lambung 332 saat ini progress pembuatan badan kapal telah selesai dikerjakan di PT. PAL hasil dari merakit beberapa modul yang dibangun oleh PT PAL sendiri maupun Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding (DSNS) dari Belanda.

Bodi kapal bagian belakang (photo : ipenk)

Saaat ini kapal dalam proses finishing akhir, bahkan bodi kapal pun sudah selesai dicat. Kapal PKR-105 merupakan kapal jenis Light Fregate yang memiliki panjang 105 meter dan lebar 14 meter. Kapal ini mampu berlayar dengan kecepatan 28 knot.

Kanon utama kapal tipe Oto Melara 76mm (photo : IMF)

Kanon utama kapal jenis Oto Melara 76mm telah terpasang, sedangkan persenjataan lainnya kapal ini dalam kontrak dengan Damen bersifat "fit for but not with (FFBNW)" berupa peluncur rudal anti kapal, peluncur torpedo, rudal anti pesawat, kanon CIWS, ESM dan ECM. Pengadaan persenjataan ini akan diproses sambil menunggu anggaran dan persetujuan G to G untuk pengadaan senjata strategis.

Persenjataan utama kapal PKR-105 (image : ARC)

Berdasarkan kontrak, kapal PKR-1 akan diserahkan kepada TNI AL pada bulan Januari 2017, sedangkan kapal PKR-2 pada bulan Oktober 2017. Namun demikian kapal PKR-1 saat ini telah menyelesaikan proses uji laut, sedangkan kapal PKR-1 telah siap diluncurkan, besar kemungkinan serah terima kedua kapal ini kepada TNI AL akan dimajukan.

Serah terima kapal fregat Sigma 10514 ini kepada TNI AL akan diikuti dengan pensiunnya fregat tipe Van Speijk yang sudah menua. Saat ini TNI AL mengoperasikan enam fregat Van Speijk class buatan Belanda.

(Defense Studies)

21 September 2016

Sprut SDM-1 (photos : russiadefence)

According to Interfax news agency, probably Vietnam will buy amphibious tanks Sprut-SDM-1 to replace the ageing PT-76B combat vehicles.

According to the source, at the Army-2016 Exhibition, tractor manufacturing complexes Russia has introduced a new range of military equipment, including self-propelled gun Sprut-SDM-1 Vietnam interested.

Earlier, at the Army-2015, RIA Novosti citing Russian military said the assault gun Sprut-SDM-1 is gaining special attention from many customers, including Vietnam and 2 sides conducted a discussion on this weapon.

According to the introduction from the Russian manufacturer, Sprut-SDM1 is self-propelled gun was fitted to the Russian military forces landed not with firepower, easily destroy tanks, armored vehicles of the enemy .

Sprut-SDM1 is the upgraded version of the tank destroyer Sprut-SD and was named the assassin killing of Russian military increased. Vehicles weighing 18 tons, 3 person crew, 500 hp engine power, maximum speed of 70km/h on asphalt, 10km/h when swimming.

The main armament of the Sprut-SDM1 is 125mm smooth-bore cannon with the automatic reloading system, rate of fire from the 6-8 play / min. Especially as this barrel can be used for anti-tank rocket launcher.

Vietnamese PT-76B amphibious tank (photo : soha)

Apart from 125mm main gun, Sprut SDM1 is equipped with additional remote control machine gun with the ammunition 7,62mm 1,000 round is mounted on the turret with reconnaissance equipment.

Compared to the version previously Sprut-SD, we easily notice the difference because the roof of Sprut SDM1 is equipped with a remote control machine guns 7,62mm, also for Sprut-SD does not have .

Integrated vehicle monitoring devices automatic target gunner and commander can hit targets not only from machine guns but also with long-range missiles to 5km.

Also, Sprut-SDM1 is equipped with thermal imaging sight system allows combat in all weather conditions, day and night.

(BaoDatViet)

21 September 2016

Danlanud Iswahjudi, Marsma Andyawan M.P sementara berdialog dengan dua pilot angkatan udara AS yang menerbangkan pesawat tempur F16 hibah Amerika Serikat ke TNI AU dari AS ke Indonesia, (photo : Kompas)

MAGETAN, KOMPAS.com - Lima pesawat F-16 yang dihibahkan Amerika Serikat kepada TNI Angkatan Udara telah tiba di Pangkalan Udara Iswahjudi, Magetan, Rabu (21/9/2016).

Lima pesawat tempur F-16 tipe C/D yang dihibahkan sudah di-upgrade dari Blok 25 menjadi Blok 52 yang kemampuannya setara dengan pesawat baru.

"Lima pesawat yang baru datang ini sudah di-upgrade dari blok 25 menjadi blok 52. Kemampuan pesawat yang di-upgrade dengan pesawat baru aviability-nya sama. Hanya kemampuan avioniknya yang berbeda seperti sistem radar dan sistem senjata," jelas Komandan Lanud Iswahjudi, Marsekal Pertama (Marsma) TNI Andyawan MP kepada wartawan seusai menerima lima pesawat F-16 yang diterbangkan lima pilot dari Amerika Serikat di Lanud Iswahjudi, Rabu (21/9/2016) siang.

Hadirnya lima pesawat tempur F-16 hibah dari AS akan menambah kekuatan alat utama sistem persenjataan (alutsista) pertahanan udara TNI.

Andyawan berharap, kedatangan lima pesawat F-16 ini dapat menambah kekuatan udara dan digunakan untuk menjaga kedaulatan NKRI.

Lima pesawat F-16C/D yang datang adalah pesawat bernomor serie TS-1621, TS-1624, TS-1632, TS-1635, dan TS-1639 (photo : IMF)

Lima pesawat tempur F-16 itu merupakan bagian dari 24 pesawat yang dihibahkan Amerika Serikat kepada pemerintah Indonesia dalam proyek “Peace Bima Sena II”. Saat ini, sudah ada 14 pesawat tempur F-16 dari AS yang dimiliki TNI AU. Rencananya akan ada dua gelombang pengiriman lagi secara bertahap.

"Saat inI sudah 14 pesaawat yang sudah datang dan masih ada dua gelombang lagi. Desember 2017 gelombang yang terakhir, jadi total 24 pesawat," jelasnya.

Ia menyatakan, seharusnya lima pesawat tempur ini datang pada 18 September 2016 lalu. Namun, karena ada beberapa kendala teknis, pesawat ini baru bisa datang hari ini.

Kelima pesawat hibah terdiri daru tiga tipe C dan dua tipe D itu diterbangkan langsung dari Amerika Serikat menuju Indonesia oleh pilot Angkatan Udara Amerika Serikat.

Pesawat tipe C bernomor seri TS1632 diterbangkan oleh Mayor David Tores, TS1635 oleh Kapten Andi Deadeye Branson, dan TS1639 diterbangkan Mayor Rex Yoga Weber.

Sementara, dua F-16 tipe D bernomor seri TS1621 diterbangkan Letkol Jukian Debo Pacheco dan seri TS 1624 diterbangkan Letkol Gregori Ajak Gaff.

Mereka berangkat dari Amerika via Hawaii pukul 06.00 WIB, lalu melewati Guam dan mendarat di Lanud Iswahjudi pukul 11.00 WIB.

(Kompas)

22 September 2016

HMAS Hobart 39 during sea trials (all photos : Aus AWD)

At 9.20am on Monday 12 September 2016, the future Air Warfare Destroyer Hobart departed the wharf at Techport Adelaide for the first time to commence several days of ship builder sea trials off the coast of South Australia.

This first phase of trials is designed to test the ship’s hull, propulsion and navigation systems. A second phase of more advanced trials will take place in early 2017 when Hobart tests its combat and communications systems.

The commencement of Sea Trials is a significant milestone for the Air Warfare Destroyer project and a major step towards delivery of the most capable warships ever operated by the Royal Australian Navy.

The AWD Alliance consisting of the Commonwealth, ASC and Raytheon Australia is scheduled to deliver the first destroyer in mid-2017.

This September, the Air Warfare Destroyer Project enters an exciting new phase with Hobart commencing its first series of sea trials, Builder’s Sea Trials. This phase will demonstrate the functionality of the ship’s propulsion, maneuvering, auxiliary, control and navigation systems. Following Builder’s Sea Trials, in early 2017 Hobart will undertake further trials to test and demonstrate the ship’s more advanced systems and the combat system performance.

Hobart will conduct Builder’s Sea Trials off the coast of South Australia over several days in September. Throughout this period the ship will be operated under the command of a civilian Master and crew, augmented by specialists from Alliance partners ASC and Raytheon Australia and other equipment suppliers, who will perform the system testing and trials. Before the ship is put to sea, the AWD Alliance will conduct a comprehensive assessment to ensure the safety of the ship, embarked personnel, the environment and other seafarers. This assessment is defined as the Alliance Sea Trials Release Process and has three major steps; the Sea Worthiness Assessment, Ship Sea Trials Release and Sea Readiness Confirmation.

During Builder’s Sea Trials, whilst the ship is at sea, a dedicated shore support team will remain in constant communications with the Ship’s Master to assist the ship and ensure the success of the trials. In the lead up to Builder Sea Trials the AWD Alliance continues to complete a number of important alongside dock trials - testing the ships systems before it departs to sea for the first time. Tests include Inclining Trials, measuring the ship’s stability and vertical centre of gravity, and Bollard Trials, testing the ship’s propulsion system.

(Aus AWD)

22 September 2016`

UAV Wulung beserta peralatan Ground Control Station (photo : detik)

Menhan Tinjau Pos Perbatasan di Merauke, Janjikan Beri Drone dan Ranpur

Merauke - Menteri Pertahanan RI Ryamizard Ryacudu siang ini meninjau perbatasan RI-Papua Nugini di Desa Sota, Merauke, Papua. Dalam kunjungannya, Menhan memberikan beberapa pengarahan sekaligus semangat kepada para prajurit yang bertugas di daerah tersebut.

Di Pos Wilayah Sota ini, terdapat puluhan Satuan Tugas Pengamanan Perbatasan (Satgas Pamtas) Yonif 407/PK. Pos perbatasan tersebut kurang lebih berjarak 80 kilometer dari pusat kota Merauke.

"Yang penting untuk kalian (anggota Satgas) adalah jaga kesehatan. Jangan sampai kalian bertugas kemudian meremehkan kesehatan. Kemudian waspada, selalu sigap dalam menghadapi sesuatu. Satu lagi berdoa, percuma ini itu ini itu kalau kalian tidak dekat dengan Tuhan," ujar Ryamizard dalam pengarahannya kepada anggota Satgas Pamtas RI-Papua Nugini di Desa Sota, Merauke, Papua, Rabu (21/9/2016).

Ryamizard kemudian menjanjikan beberapa penambahan fasilitas yang menunjang pengamanan wilayah perbatasan. Salah satu rencananya adalah menyediakan drone sebagai alat intai dan juga beberapa kendaraan tempur (ranpur).

"Kalian di sini dalam rangka tugas negara, jadi apapun tugas negara itu harus sukses. Untuk itu pendukung-pendukung yang mampu dilaksanakan kita akan sediakan. Cuma train, mobil terus bis yang bisa jalan di rawa, di air juga kemudian pos permanen. Pokoknya gitu-gitu. Itu harus bisa," jelas Ryamizard.

"Untuk drone juga, kita akan kita kaji dulu di Kementerian Pertahanan kita lihat beberapa hal kalau misalnya oke ya tinggal disediakan. Sehingga secara fisik, secara menyeluruh bisa tahu keadaan sekitar dan bisa melihat titik api," sambung dia.

Menhan menilai penyediaan fasilitas tambahan untuk pengamanan wilayah perbatasan lebih mendesak dibanding penambahan alutsista. Dana yang dibutuhkan juga lebih realistis.

"Dibanding beli alutsista. Nggak ada apa-apanya, satu pesawat bisa Rp 1,3 triliun, paling di sini nggak sampai Rp 500 milyar," ungkapnya.

(Detik)

RAN Formally Receives Final MH-60R Helicopter

A340-500/A345 is being Delivered to RTAF

DND Allocated Fund for FA-50PH Gun System Ammo and Countermeasures Munition

Kapal Selam KRI 403 Jalani Sea Trial

Thailand Looks to Buy New Transport Planes to Replace Ageing C-130H Hercules

New Variant of Blackhawk Unveils in MSPO 2016

NZDF's New Seasprite Helos Deploys on First Mission with an OPV

Exclusive Details the Layout of the Latest BT-3F

DND and HHI to Sign P16-B Fregate Agreement

Ukraine Intends to Transfer Technology of BTR to Thailand

Kasta-2E2 Specialized Radar to Detect Cruise Missiles of Vietnam

Duterte Approves Acquisition of 2 Brand-New Large Patrol Vessels

Indonesia Offers Defense Equipment to Pakistan

Lima Pesawat Tempur F-16 C/D Segera Tiba

Rolls-Royce Secures Milestone Contract with HHI for First Naval Environship

Progress PKR-2 Memasuki Tahap Finishing

Russia Said the Candidate to Replace PT-76B of Vietnam

Lima Pesawat F-16 Hibah dari AS Sudah Tiba di Madiun

Hobart AWD During First Series of Builder’s Sea Trials

Menhan Janjikan Beri Drone dan Ranpur untuk Perbatasan di Merauke