DEFENSE STUDIES

18 Mei 2019

The Multi-role Aviation Training Vessel MV Sycamore (all photos : Terma)

Copenhagen and Singapore - In April 2019, Terma confirmed the update to the C-Flex Mission System on the Multi-role Aviation Training Vessel (MATV) to the newest member of the C-Series family C-Flex PATROL. The C-Flex PATROL Mission System encompasses a completely redesigned user interface providing a modern and very intuitive user experience relieving operator workload.

The Royal Australian Navy will be the fourth navy operating the C-Flex PATROL Mission System. System update and associated training will be coordinated by Terma’s local service partner Jenkins Engineering Defense Systems.

A primary mission for the MV Sycamore is to conduct operational aviation/helicopter training by and for RAN. Consequently, the MV Sycamore is equipped with a helicopter mission control system from Terma that comprises the SCANTER 6002 Air and Surface Surveillance radar with IFF and the C-Flex PATROL Mission System.

The C-Flex PATROL Mission System is located in the aviation control room from where the operator is presented with the situation awareness based on data from the SCANTER 6002 radar and the IFF. These data are correlated and fused into a layered situation picture with sea chart, track overlay, crisp-clear radar video overlay as well as graphical overlays, routes, helicopter approach patterns, etc., allowing for the operator to concentrate on making decisions and commanding the helicopter in the specific operation.

SMART Displays enables remote role-specific operation of the mission system from the wheelhouse and helicopter control rooms without the need for a full operator position.

The SCANTER 6002 is a combined Air and Surface Surveillance radar providing unique capabilities for advanced navigation, air, and surface surveillance and helicopter control. On the MV Sycamore, the SCANTER 6002 radar is configured with its 12 feet Dual Beam High Gain antenna and combined with the C-Search IFF system providing for military modes as well as the civilian Mode S. The SCANTER 6002 radar enables the operator to detect a helicopter far from the vessel and follow it all the way until hovering over the helicopter pad.

The C-Flex PATROL Mission System is derived from Terma’s famous and proven C-Flex Combat Management System supplied fleetwide for the Royal Danish Navy (OPVs and Frigates) and for several other navies, such as the Romanian Navy, Royal Brunei Navy, Royal Thai Navy, etc. Rather than providing Combat Management, the C-Flex PATROL Mission System provides a mission-oriented command and control solution enabling commercial-, coast guard- and naval vessels to conduct efficient missions within Search & Rescue, surveillance, law enforcement, and deterrence.

The SCANTER 6002 radar has become a preferred choice for both navigation and surveillance purposes by a large number of navies and coast guards around the world. The SCANTER 6002 is a Solid State X-Band radar providing unique and unmatched small target detection and tracking. The SCANTER 6002 is a member of Terma’s world famous SCANTER radar family with more than 2,700 radars in operation worldwide.

(Terma)

19 Mei 2019

Latihan Pasukan Pendarat Damar 19 (all photos : Korps Marinir)

Dispen Kormar (Situbondo). Dalam rangka meningkatkan kemampuan dan profesionalisme, Korps Marinir melaksanakan Latihan Pasukan Pendarat 2019 di Pusat Latihan Pertempuran Korps Marinir 5 Baluran Situbondo, Jawa Timur. Sabtu (18/05/2019).

Latihan yang disaksikan oleh Komandan Korps Marinir Mayjen TNI (Mar) Suhartono, M.Tr. Han, Brigjen TNI (Mar) Torry Subiyantoro selaku Penasehat Latihan, Komandan Pasmar 2 Brigjen TNI (Mar) Ipung Purwadi, M.M, Kolonel Marinir Suharto, Kolonel Laut (P) Desmon Hermono Kusumo selaku Peninjau Latihan, Asintel Dankormar Kolonel Marinir Hendro Suwito, Asops Dankormar Kolonel Marinir Y. Rudi Sulistyanto, Dankolatmar Kolonel Marinir Suliono, S.E., Danlanmar Surabaya Kolonel Marinir Mauriadi dan Para Asisten Danpasmar 2 serta Dankolak di jajaran Pasmar 2 tersebut dengan materi latihan meliputi proses perencanaan operasi amfibi, embarkasi, lintas laut, infiltrasi satuan Taifib, pengintaian dan konfirmasi pantai pendaratan, pendaratan khusus (Ratsus), gerakan kapal ke pantai (GKK), serbuan amfibi, Kerja Sama Infanteri Tank (KSIT) atau Penyerbuan Mekanis (Bunis), Bantuan Tembakan (Bantem) dan Dukungan Satuan Bantuan Administrasi.

Pendaratan amfibi yang dipimpin oleh Komandan Pasukan Pendarat (Danpasrat) Kolonel Marinir Agus Gunawan Wibisono, S.H., M.M yang sehari-hari menjabat Komandan Brigade Infanteri 2 Marinir tersebut, selain melibatkan prajurit Korps Marinir TNI AL juga menurunkan beberapa material tempur yang dimiliki Korps Marinir TNI AL diantaranya BMP-3F, LVT-7A1, BTR-50, KAPA K61, MLRS Vampire, BVP-2 dan Howitzer 105 mm.

Seluruh personel dan material tempur Korps Marinir TNI AL melaksanakan Latihan Pasukan Pendarat Korps Marinir tahun 2019 menggunakan KRI Teluk Banten-516, KRI Teluk Cendrawasih-533, KRI Makassar-590, Helly Bell dan pesawat Cassa TNI AL.

Komandan Korps Marinir Mayjen TNI (Mar) Suhartono, M.Tr. Han, mengatakan, latihan ini merupakan perpaduan antar unsur dalam bermanuver, dalam hal ini infanteri sebagai pasukan pendarat, tank amphibi dan Ranratfib. Selain itu, latihan ini merupakan latihan rutin, bagian dari latihan yang bertingkat, bertahap dan berlanjut, untuk meningkatkan profesionalisme prajurit Korps Marinir sebagai prajurit matra laut. (Korps Marinir)

Armed Marinir Ikut Serta Latpasrat di Situbondo

Dispen Kormar (Situbondo). Batalyon Howitzer 2 Marinir dan Batalyon Roket 2 Marinir yang tergabung dalam satuan Artileri Medan (Armed) turut serta dalam Latihan Pasukan Pendarat (Latpasrat) "DAMAR19" Tahun 2019 di di Pusat Latihan Pertempuran Korps Marinir 5 Baluran Situbondo, Jawa Timur. Sabtu (18/05/2019).

Dalam latihan tersebut satuan Armed melibatkan 2 pucuk meriam howitzer 105 mm, 2 unit BVP-2 dan 2 pucuk RM 70 Grad dibawah pimpinan Komandan Baterai (Danrai) Armed Kapten Marinir Khumaidi Irfandik.

Tujuan dari latihan tersebut adalah untuk meningkatkan kemampuan atau keterampilan satuan tempur prajurit Armed dalam operasi pendaratan amfibi, disamping itu, juga umtuk melatih kepemimpinan sesuai fungsi jabatan di lapangan.

Materi yang dilatihkan meliputi pendaratan amphibi, Gerakan Artileri Medan (GAM), masuk stelling cepat, stelling pokok, tembakan pendahuluan (tembak ganggu gusar), mendukung bantuan tembakan kepada satuan manuver yang melaksanakan serangan kemudian melaksanakan stelling dinamika pertahanan.

(Korps Marinir)

20 Mei 2019

M1A1 Abrams MBT (photo : DTR Magazine)

General Dynamics Land Systems-Australia provides the Australian Defence Force with leading Military vehicles such as the Australian Light Armoured Vehicles (ASLAV) and M1A1 Abrams main battle tank.

The Phase 3 Australian Light Armoured Vehicles (ASLAV) contract was awarded in 2003, including a new turret electric drive, enhanced thermal sight with laser range find and an improved fire control system for the 25 mm turrets in the fleet, as well as integration of a GPS-based navigation system and enhanced suspension system.

ASLAV 8x8 wheeled vehicle (photo : GDLS)

General Dynamics Land Systems-Australia was awarded a number of contract extensions for the through life support contract of the Australian Light Armoured Vehicles (ASLAV) and M1A1 Abrams tanks to 2022.

General Dynamics Land Systems-Australia was established in 2004 and was formerly known as General Motors Defence Australia which was established in 1991.

(GDLS)

20 Mei 2019

Venus 16 USV (photos : RSN)

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) will field 16 m-class unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) on its future Multi-role Combat Vessels (MRCVs), a senior RSN official confirmed during a media briefing on the sidelines of the IMDEX 2019 exhibition held in Singapore from 14 to 16 May.

Senior Lieutenant Colonel Wong Chng Tong, commanding officer of 194 Squadron, noted that the RSN is presently looking into embarking the Coastal Defence-variant of the Venus 16 USV - which will be specifically configured for maritime security/force-protection operations - aboard the MRCVs. These new frigate-sized vessels replace its six upgraded but ageing Victory-class missile corvettes that entered service from 1989.

(Jane's)

20 Mei 2019

OPV-552 HTMS Prachuap Khiri KhanIn (all photos : Royal Thai Navy)

On May, 12 2019 the Office of the Navy Secretary led by Colonel Phukri Wilairak, Deputy Secretary of the Navy take the media from the center to visit the progress to build a 2nd Offshore Patrol Vessel OPV-552 HTMS Prachuap Khiri KhanIn at the Mahidol Adulyadej Naval Dockyard, Sattahip District, Chonburi Province.

For the project of procuring a 2nd long-range surveillance ship into the Navy, using the type of Krabi Royal Boat Is the basis for building a ship with improvements in various defects That had happened to long-distance surveillance boats, boat sets, Pattani, Royal and Krabi boats In order for the new ship to have more suitable features in response to the Navy's mission By the Royal Thai Navy approved the project to build a remote surveillance boat on the 2nd side as the Chalermprakiat Project His Highness Maha Bhumibol Adulyadej Maharaj Boromart, Bophit has a project period of 4 years since the fiscal year 2015 to 2018.

Project to build a remote surveillance boat on the 2nd side of Chalermprakiat As part of the Navy's development strategy purpose to enhance capacity of the Navy to protect national interests by sea marine law enforcement and surface water operations as well as searching and helping victims in the sea and support other naval operations.

In this regard, the difference between Krabi Royal Boat with the second OPV which is important to increase the capacity of the flight deck to be able to park ASW helicopters Seahawks. The installation of a weapon to release the ground to the ground like a harpoon including renovating rooms to be more appropriate in the part of shipbuilding, use block construction instead of the original design that must start from placing keels by assembling 17 large blocks, 31 sub blocks to finish first, and then assembled in a dry dock by carrying out the ship building at the Mahidol Adulyadej Naval Dockyard.

During building project of HTMS Prachuap Khiri KhanIn, the Navy has used the potential and knowledge of the Navy personnel to conduct the test installation. Both the ship by the Navy Department, the weapon system by the Naval Ordnance Department and the Navy Electronic Department. Although using a foreign ship model, it can be said that it is a large boat building with self-reliance.

See full article PR Thai Navy

20 Mei 2019

Philippine Marine Corps personnel with 40mm grenade launcher (photo : Reddit)

The Philippine Army is acquiring 178 units of 40mm Revolver Grenade Launcher. The procurement project is now in progress with Receipt and Opening of Bid Envelope (ROBE) scheduled on May 29.

The procurement project has an approved budget for contract (ABC) of PhP 106,800,000.00, as part of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program Second Horizon.

“During the ROBE, the bidders or their “duly authorized representative shall submit their bids using the forms specified in the Bidding Documents in two (2) separate sealed bid envelopes, and which shall be submitted simultaneously. The first shall contain the technical component of the bid, including the eligibility requirements under section 23.1 of Revised IRR, and the second shall contain the financial component of the bid” under Section 25.1,” the procuring entity said in a bulletin posted at PhilGEPS.

(Mintfo)

21 Mei 2019

HAL Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (photo : Sputnik)

India is among the five contenders competing for the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s (RMAF) intended purchase of 30 light combat aircraft over the next 10 years. New Delhi has put forth its indigenously developed Tejas fighter jet for the RM (Malaysian Ringgit) 36 billion (~ $8.7 billion) deal.

Other aircraft that are on offer are believed to be the F-50 of Korea Aerospace Industries (South Korea), YAK-130 by Irkut Aerospace (Russia), JF-17 Thunder (Pakistan) and Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master (Italy), reports Free Malaysia Today.

According to the report, the political consideration will be the main factor behind Malaysia’s purchase of the aircraft.

Despite heavy lobbying from Pakistan, Malaysia is unlikely to buy the JF-17 as the Kuala Lumpur reportedly intends to link the deal to purchases of palm oil.

India, which is one of the largest buyer of Malaysian palm oil, could easily meet the country’s demand. Besides, New Delhi, in a bid to boost its chances for the deal, has also offered to buy the retired MiG-29 jets from Malaysia.

According to the report, the RMAF currently operates a mixed fleet of supersonic fighters and multi-role combat aircraft, comprising 13 Russian-made MiG-29s (now retired) and 18 Sukhoi SU-30MKM “Flanker”, and eight American Boeing F/A-18D Hornet.

(Swarajya)

21 Mei 2019

Fregat BRP Jose Rizal FF-150 (photos : Max Defense)

Foto pertama dari fregat Filipina muncul di laman medsos MaxDefense. Fregat dengan basis kapal tipe HDF-2600 dan diberi nama BRP Jose Rizal dengan nomor lambung FF-150, saat ini masih dalam pengerjaan di galangan kapal Hyundai Heavy Industries, Ulsan, Korea Selatan.

Filipina memesan dua fregat baru senilai Php 15,7 bio (297 mio USD) yang tendernya dimenangkan oleh galangan dari Korea ini. Pengadaan dua kapal ini adalah bagian dari modernisasi angkatan bersenjata Filipina tahap pertama (Horizon 1) yang berlangsung dalam kurun 2013-2018.

Tinggal menghitung hari fregat pertama ini akan diluncurkan dan kemudian disusul dengan keel laying fregat kedua, BRP Antonio Luna FF-151. Fregat yang keel layingnya dilakukan pada Oktober 2018 ini akan diserah-terimakan pada kuartal pertama tahun 2020, sedangkan fregat kedua pada 2021

Kapal fregat ini mempunyai panjang total 107 meter dan lebar 13,8 meter, bobot maksimalnya adalah 2.600 ton, kapal sanggup berlayar dengan kecepatan maksimal 25 knot dengan jelajah maksimal 4.500 nm (8.330 km).

(Defense Studies)

21 Mei 2019

F-16C/D and C-130 Hercules of the TNI AU (photo : Megah)

To pacify Trump, Indonesia seeks American arms

Jakarta is weighing big-ticket US weapons purchases to rebalance trade relations and maintain privileged access to US markets.

Indonesia is quietly talking to the United States about the purchase of 32 new Lockheed Martin F-16 Viper jets and six C-130J cargo aircraft in what may partly be an effort to remove the country from any possible sanctions as the US-China trade war returns to a boil.

Well-placed Washington sources speculate that the Indonesians are seeking to protect their Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) access, as well as to ward off possible US congressional retaliation against friendly countries that have recently purchased Russian military hardware.

.........

On the military front, it is still not clear whether Indonesia’s plans to buy 11 advanced Su-35 FlankerE multi-role fighters from Russia will run into the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which penalizes procurers of Russian military systems.

The air force has said it will have no option but to terminate the deal if US sanctions are enforced, but as a spokesman has noted: “We need to operate a combination of East-made and West-made fighters. Politics is uncertain, and we need balance because if we have problems with the West, we can use aircraft made in the East.”

F-16V Viper (image : Lockheed Martin)

Ironically, the Indonesian military only went shopping in Russia in the early 2000s because of a US arms embargo which began with the Dili, East Timor, churchyard massacre by Indonesian troops in 1991 and was only strengthened following East Timor’s bloody separation from Indonesia eight years later.

Although Indonesia already has a squadron of twin-engine Sukhoi Su-27/30 jets, the subsequent lifting of the embargo has seen the delivery in the last two years of 24 refurbished US-made F-16s and eight Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters worth an estimated $1.4 billion.

Indonesia’s intended purchases, including the $1.1 billion Su-35 deal, fit with an ambitious air force modernization plan, announced in June 2018, to bring its force level up to eight fighter squadrons and six refreshed transport squadrons by 2024.

It currently has six fighter squadrons spread across Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan and Sulawesi, with an inventory that includes 25 F-16C/Ds, 16 Su-27/30s and 24 British Aerospace BAE Hawk 200s.

Government sources say the C-130 workhorses are a higher priority than the costly, state-of-the-art Vipers because of the steady depletion of its current 18-strong fleet, invaluable in flying troops and relief supplies to remote parts of the archipelago.

C-130J Super Hercules (photo : Przemyslaw Burdzinski)

Apart from its normal transport role, the Super Hercules C-130 can also be quickly configured for prolonged maritime surveillance duties with belly-mounted radar and roll-on, roll-off sensor stations in place of cargo.

The Indonesians have yet to publicly announce their interest in the F-16V, which was first demonstrated at the Singapore Air Show in 2012 and only went into service with Taiwan’s Air Force this year.

Developed to inter-operate with Lockheed’s fifth-generation F-35 and F-22 fighters, the latest F-16 variant can be deployed against enemy air defenses and also in air-to-air, air-to-ground and deep interdiction and maritime missions.

US analysts advise Indonesia to continue conducting business as usual and say there is no need for Jakarta to make any major announcements on military procurements or highlight joint military exercises or other unilateral endeavors.

High-level US visits in the recent past by Pence and then Defense Secretary James Mattis went a long way, they say, to establishing Indonesia’s value to the US as a democracy of strategic importance. But whether that assessment extends to the mercurial and unpredictable Trump is a different matter.

See full article ATimes

21 Mei 2019

HMAS Arunta conducts an incline test as part of the Anzac Mid-life Capability Assurance Program (AMCAP) upgrade while at the Common User Facility in Henderson, Western Australia (photos : RAN)

For those who go to sea there is nothing as critical as understanding the stability of the ship as it encounters all the forces that ocean and weather can bring to bear in combination.

Therefore, after more than a year out of the water as part of her Anzac Midlife Capability Assurance Program (AMCAP) upgrade, HMAS Arunta (II) has undertaken an inclining experiment at Henderson Shipyard, Western Australia to test stability.

An inclining experiment is a test performed on a ship to determine its stability, lightship weight and the coordinates of its centre of gravity. The experiment is applied to newly constructed ships greater than 24m in length, and to ships altered in ways that could affect stability.

The weight of a ship can be readily determined by reading draughts and comparing with the known hydrostatic properties. The ‘metacentric height’ (GM), which dominates stability, can be estimated from the design, but an accurate value must be determined by an inclining experiment.

The experiment involves positioning the ship in a still body of water and applying weights in varying configurations throughout the ship and measuring the list of the ship for each configuration.

The experiment that was performed on Arunta is important as Arunta is the first of class to undergo the AMCAP upgrade and the data from the experiment will be used as a basis for updating the trim and stability handbook for all future AMCAP ships.

The upgrade, being implemented by the Warship Asset Management Agreement (WAMA), includes significant improvements to major platform systems such as the communications centre, and the replacement of the ship’s long range air search radar.

Arunta’s Marine Engineer Officer, Lieutenant Commander Leonard Woodman, said the inclining experiment is another important milestone for both Arunta and the Anzac Mid-Life Capability Assurance Program (AMCAP).

“The inclining experiment, while being a standard practice after a significant upgrade, has provided good data that will support all the ships that come after us on the AMCAP,” he said.

“The inclining experiment is a key component in getting the ship ready to sail later in the year, and marks a key milestone of the post-production process.”

The AMCAP aims to remediate obsolescence issues and upgrades ship systems, positioning the Anzac Class ships for sustainment and maintenance of its warfare systems capabilities.

The Warship Asset Management Agreement (WAMA) is an alliance consisting of the Commonwealth, BAE Systems Australia, Saab Australia and Naval Ship Management Australia. Arunta is the first ship to complete the AMCAP upgrade.

(RAN)

22 Mei 2019

Helikopter MD530G Angkatan Tentera Malaysia (photo : Shephard)

PETALING JAYA: Menteri Pertahanan Mohamad Sabu meminta spekulasi mengenai isu pembelian helikopter tempur ringan buatan Amerika Syarikat bernilai RM300 juta yang masih belum diterima Angkatan Tentera Malaysia dihentikan kerana ia akan mengganggu siasatan.

Beliau mengingatkan jawatankuasa siasatan khas isu tadbir urus, perolehan dan kewangan negara masih menjalankan siasatan terhadap isu-isu perolehan dan kewangan Kementerian Pertahanan.

“Pihak-pihak yang tidak berkaitan tidak sepatutnya membuat spekulasi terhadap sebarang isu yang sedang disiasat oleh jawatankuasa seperti pembelian helikopter, kerana ia akan mengganggu proses siasatan,” katanya dalam kenyataaan hari ini.

Beliau berkata Kementerian Pertahanan (Kementah) akan memanjangkan hasil siasatan ke atas pembelian 6 buah “Little Birds”, atau MD530G kepada jemaah menteri sebelum membuat laporan kepada Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia (SPRM) dan polis untuk tindakan lanjut.

“Sepertimana hasil siasatan terhadap isu ‘land swap’ sebelum ini,” katanya.

Terdahulu, FMT difahamkan 6 buah MD530G yang dikeluarkan oleh MD Helicopters milik gergasi aeroangkasa AS, McDonnel Douglas dipesan oleh Kementah yang dipimpin oleh Hishammuddin Hussein ketika itu.

Satu kontrak ditanda tangani pada November 2016 yang menetapkan bahawa helikopter terbabit akan dihantar dalam 2 kumpulan. Kumpulan ke-2 dijadualkan tiba tahun lepas.

Syarikat tempatan yang dilantik sebagai ejen MD Helicopters telah dibayar 35% daripada nilai kontrak, berjumlah kira-kira RM113 juta.

(FMT)

22 Mei 2019

T-72 main battle tank (photo : MaxDefense)

The Philippine delegation to Czech Republic for the inaugural Joint Defense Committee (JDC) in Prague from May 6 to 9 visited several Czech defense industry manufacturing sites.

Defense Undersecretary Cardozo M. Luna headed the delegation and co-chaired the JDC meeting with Czech Defense Vice Minister Jakub Landovský.

Pandur II 8x8 (photo : MaxDefense)

“The Inaugural Joint Defense Consultations hosted by the Czech Ministry of Defense included several industry briefing and visits to plants of Czech defense industry such as Aura Company, CZUB, Excalibur Army, Aero Vodochody and SVOS Company. Ambassador [Ombra T.] Jainal joined most of the industry visits for follow-up action,” the Philippine Embassy in Czech said.

MaxDefense Philippines shared in its social networking page some photos of Philippine delegation’s visit to Excalibur Army.

Vampre 8x8 MLRS (photo : MaxDefense)

Moreover, during the JDC meeting, Philippines and Czech discussed prospects of further enhancing bilateral defense cooperation, exchanged information on plans for the development of armed forces, discussed potential joint defense industrial projects, as well as exchanged views on security situation in Europe and Southeast Asia.

The Philippines and Czech signed a Defense Cooperation agreement on May 29, 2017.

Tatra 8x8 AVLB (photo : MaxDefense)

It can also be recalled that President Rodrigo Duterte said during the presentation of credentials of Czech Republic Ambassador to Philippines Jana Sediva in January that the Philippines is looking into acquiring small-arms from Czech.

(Mintfo)

22 Mei 2019

Pindad Komodo 4x4 (photo : Smart Lifestyle)

Eksklusif, Tempo Menjajal Kendaraan Tempur Komodo Buatan Pindad

TEMPO.CO, Bandung - Tempo mendapat kesempatan eksklusif untuk menjajal langsung kendaraan tempur Komodo di PT Pindad Indonesia, Bandung, Senin, 20 Mei 2019. Test drive kali ini terasa sangat berbeda, pasalnya yang Tempo coba merupakan kendaraan militer dengan nama Komodo, bukan mobil penumpang seperti kegiatan test drive pada umumnya.

Komodo ini biasa digunakan sebagai mobil pengintai dan sangat cocok dipakai pada medan yang berat, juga menjadi kendaraan operasional yang andal bagi TNI dan POLRI.

Kesan pertama naik ke dalam kabin Komodo tipe APC 4x4 ini, layaknya naik truk besar, karena ground clearance yang tinggi yakni 40 cm di tambah posisi jok berada cukup tinggi. Jadi harus siap melangkahkan kaki lebih lebar.

Komodo TNI AD (photo : Grant Turnbull)

Setelah duduk di bangku kemudi, kami mencoba melakukan adaptasi dengan menginjak pedal kopling, rem, dan gas. Pengoperasiannya sama seperti mobil penumpang bertransmisi manual. Hanya saja ketika hendak masuk gigi 1 perpindahannya begitu keras, begitu juga saat mengoper ke gigi 2 dan seterusnya.

Tapi, menurut kami, itu hanya soal adaptasi saja, buktinya petugas di PT Pindad Indonesia dengan mudah melakukan oper gigi.

Berhasil masuk gigi 1, lepas kopling perlahan sembari menginjak gas, torsinya sangat nendang, wajar saja, mobil ini menggunakan mesin diesel besutan Renault bertenaga 220 tenaga kuda.

Di bagian kemudi, stirnya terasa sangat ringan karena tentu sudah disematkan power steering. Kendaraan lapis baja ini merupakan sebuah kendaraan taktis dengan manuver yang baik.

Pindad Komodo 4x4 dengan RWS (photo : Tempo)

Sesuai namanya, Komodo, kendaraan taktis berpenggerak 4x4 ini bisa ibarat hewan komodo yang perkasa, sehingga menjadi kendaraan perang yang berdaya tempur tinggi untuk menjaga NKRI. Ketika di tes pada medan uji coba berupa lumpur yang cukup dalam, dengan santai Komodo melahapnya.

Tak hanya jago di medan berlumpur, Komodo juga canggih nanjak, dengan sudut kemiringan 60 derajat, dan bobot Komodo yang mencapai 7,5 ton bukanlah halangan. Dimensi kendaraan ini memiliki panjang 5,4 m, lebar 2,3 m, tinggi 2,2 m.

Kapasitas tangkinya mampu menampung bahan bakar hingga 200 liter dengan daya jelajah 450 kilometer. Kendaraan tempur Komodo ini sanggup melaju hingga kecepatan puncak mencapai 100 kilometer per jam.

(Tempo)

22 Mei 2019

M548 as anti-tank cannon (photo : TTXVN)

Not only "shedding" the American M548 cargo carrier vehicles into self-propelled guns or mobile air defense complexes, the Vietnam National Defense Agency also launched a new self-propelled anti-tank gun model.

According to the People's Army and Television News newspaper, on April 16 at Chi Lang shooting school, An Giang province, Military Region 9 held a live fire round to test the scientific and technological tasks of various types. 85mm, 76mm, 37mm and 105mm caliber guns on the US-built M548 cargo carrier chassis.

Here, self-propelled artillery and improved self-propelled air defense complexes of Military Region 9 conducted testing with a distance of 900m, 800m, 600m and 500m.

M548 with various functions (photo : VNews)

The shooting results show that the system of cargo carrier chassis and pedestals and guns ensure quality, good operation, stability of the vehicle when operating and each shot is within the safety limits to meet the requirements Technical requirements set out.

If the 105mm self-propelled artillery assemblies or 37mm antiaircraft guns mounted on the M548 crawler chassis were tested in 2018, it was recently based on the results of the improved artillery complexes on the Military Region. 9 continues to launch self-propelled anti-tank guns with caliber from 76mm to 85mm.

Turning the M548 car made by the US into a self-propelled anti-tank cannon.

M548 as anti-aircraft guns (photo : QPVN)

With the current Vietnam People's Army, the caliber cannons are only available with long barreled D-44 (85mm) and ZiS-3 (76mm) anti-tank guns.

The successful mechanization of artillery models such as D-44 and ZiS-3 is considered a major breakthrough of Vietnam's defense industry in general and military forces of Military Zone 9 in particular.

In which, there are 4 combinations of M548 vehicles with 105mm M101 guns attached with PKMS machine guns; 1 combination of M548 vehicle with 23mm ZSU-23-2 dual-barreled anti-aircraft guns; 12 M113 armored vehicle complexes mounted 100mm mortar M106, M125 with 12.7mm anti-aircraft machine guns.

See full article Soha

23 Mei 2019

US Navy P-3C Orion (photo : Aria H Kanzaki)

Lorenzana: PHL eyeing to acquire US surveillance planes due to be retired from service

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Tuesday night expressed his interest in acquiring the P3C Orion surveillance planes that the US government will be retiring from service, to add to the fleet monitoring and protecting Philippine territory.

“It will be good if we acquire even one P3C Orion. Provided it has all its original equipment. Otherwise, it will just be another transport plane. We will find out if we can get one or two,” Lorenzana said.

The US Navy has already set the last deployment of the P-3C Orion ahead of its retirement.

Lorenzana said that having the aircraft is important for the Department of the National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to monitor and protect the country's territory in the South China Sea.

“Very important as our domain awareness will be greatly enhanced,” Lorenzana said.

The Defense secretary said that they will express their interest in acquiring the P-3C Orion to the US soon.

(GMA News)

23 Mei 2019

Mock up of armoured vehicle with 105mm gun turret (photo : Mal MoD)

On May 17, MINDEF’s Science and Technology Research Institute for Defence (STRIDE) has organised an Iftar ceremony where the Secretary General of MINDEF was invited to the event.

He was shown to various display put up by various STRIDE departments to highlight the capabilities, expertise and achievement of each of the department. One display that caught the eye was the cut out of an armoured vehicle which look like a light tank.

The mock up seems to have 105mm gun with turret equipped with flare canisters possibly as countermeasures against anti armour weapon system.

The Malaysian Army had recently phased out its ageing Alvis Scorpion light tank which is equipped with 90mm Cockerill gun. While there has been no plan being made to fill in the gap, the need for light tank to be operated by the 10th Parachute Brigade as replacement to the British made Scorpion tank is apparent.

Sibmas 6x6 of TDM equipped with 90mm Cockerill gun (photo : Wiki)

STRIDE has been cooperating with a local engineering company to come up with reconnaissance variant of the Scorpion which uses turret from a retired Radpanzer Condor armoured personnel carrier (APC) as well as other enhancement and upgrades. Having said that, the proposed project was not carried out due to the decision to take all of the remaining Scorpions out of service.

(MFH)

23 Mei 2019

Pesawat tempur Su-30 latihan terbang dini hari (photo : Sasan)

Terkuak, 3 Pesawat Tempur Lanud Iswahjudi Ini Sumber Suara Gemuruh di Waktu Sahur

Madiunpos.com, MAGETAN -- Masyarakat di kawasan Madiun, Solo dan sekitarnya, hingga Yogyakarta, dikagetkan dengan suara gemuruh di udara yang terdengar bertepatan dengan waktu sahur atau menjelang Subuh.

Suara gemuruh yang seolah-olah membangunkan umat Islam untuk sahur itu ternyata berasal dari pesawat tempur TNI AU yang diterbangkan para penerbang Pangkalan Udara (Lanud) Iswahjudi Magetan. Para penerbang tempur itu berlatih terbang pada dini hari.

Komandan Lanud Iswahjudi Marsma TNI Widyargo Ikoputra melalui Kepala Penerangan (Kapen) Lanud Iswahjudi, Letkol Sus Hamdi Londong Allo, mengatakan latihan terbang malam ini merupakan program dari Lanud Iswahjudi mulai Senin (20/5/2019) direncanakan sampai Jumat (24/5/2019).

Dia menyebut ada tiga pesawat tempur yang digunakan dalam latihan itu yakni pesawat F-16 Fighting Falcon, pesawat T-50i Golden Eagle, dan pesawat Sukhoi SU 27/30. Latihan terbang malam itu dipimpin langsung oleh Komandan Wing 3 Lanud Iswahjudi, Kol Pnb M. Satriyo Utomo.

Pesawat tempur F-16 latihan terbang dini hari (photo : TribunNews)

"Latihan ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan serta keahlian para penerbang tempur baik untuk pesawat F-16, T-50i, dan Sukhoi," kata dia saat dihubungi Madiunpos.com, Selasa (21/5/2019).

Dia menuturkan latihan terbang malam dilakukan selama sepekan oleh Skadron Udara 3, Skadron Udara 15, dan Skadron Udara 14. Menurutnya, latihan malam ini dilakukan supaya keterampilan para penerbang bisa terasah baik saat siang maupun malam hari.

Dia menjelaskan latihan malam dimulai pukul 02.30 WIB. Seluruh pesawat akan tinggal landas dari Lanud Iswahjudi Magetan dan kemudian akan terbang sesuai rute yang telah ditentukan.

"Latihan terbang malam ini melaksanakan terbang divertion (DIV) bertujuan supaya lebih familiar dengan procedure approach dan kondisi aerodrome setempat," jelas Londong.

Para penerbang Lanud Iswahjudi selain terbang di wilayah Madiun juga melaksanakan latihan terbang di aerodrome lain sekitar Lanud Iswahjudi seperti di Solo maupun Yogyakarta.

Pesawat tempur Su-30 latihan terbang dini hari (photo : SoloPos)

Dia menambahkan para penerbang juga melaksanakan latihan live bombing malam hari di Pandanwangi dan tactical intercept. Latihan terbang malam pada Selasa dini hari, berhasil menyelesaikan 30 sorties tersiri dari F-16 sebanyak 12 sorties, pesawat T-50i sebanyak 16 sorties, dan pesawat Sukhoi 27/30 dengan dua sorties.

Rinesti, warga yang tinggal di Kelurahan Manisrejo, Kota Madiun, mengatakan suara gemuruh terdengar nyaring pada saat sahur, Selasa sekitar pukul 03.00 WIB. Ibu satu anak itu kemudian menyadari suara gemuruh itu berasal dari pesawat yang terbang di langit.

"Suaranya cukup nyaring, bisa membangunkan orang yang sedang tidur untuk segera menunaikan sahur," kata dia.

(SoloPos)

23 Mei 2019

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)’s missile corvette RSS Valiant (bottom right) and frigate RSS Steadfast (bottom left) sailing in formation with the Indian Navy (IN)’s destroyer INS Kolkata (top right) and oiler INS Shakti (top left) at the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (photo : Sing Mindef)

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Indian Navy (IN) conducted the Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) from 16 to 22 May 2019. Hosted in Singapore this year, the exercise comprised a shore phase held at RSS Singapura – Changi Naval Base, and a sea phase in the South China Sea. This year's exercise is the 26th edition of SIMBEX, which has been held since 1994.

The RSN participated in the exercise with a frigate (RSS Steadfast with an S-70B naval helicopter embarked aboard) and a missile corvette (RSS Valiant), while the IN participated with a destroyer (INS Kolkata embarked with a Chetak helicopter), an oiler (INS Shakti embarked with a Sea King helicopter), and a P-8I maritime patrol aircraft. Four F-16D+ fighter aircraft and a Fokker-50 maritime patrol aircraft from the Republic of Singapore Air Force also participated in the exercise.

During the exercise, the two navies worked together to plan and execute advanced naval warfare serials, including gunnery live-firing. The sea phase culminated in mission-oriented exercises where ships and aircraft participated in a series of air defence and surface warfare missions.

The successful conduct of SIMBEX 2019 underscores the strong and long-standing defence ties between both countries. Commanding Officer of RSS Steadfast, Lieutenant Colonel Carlin Song said, “The exercise gave us a valuable opportunity to work together and learn from one another, and also strengthened the close bonds between our sailors."

Over the years, SIMBEX has grown in scope and complexity, expanding beyond conventional naval warfare to include elements of maritime security. Apart from SIMBEX, the two navies interact regularly through a range of activities, including professional exchanges, staff talks, and training courses.

(Sing Mindef)

23 Mei 2019

BRP Jose Rizal is the first brand new Philippine Navy ship capable of anti-warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare and electronic warfare operations (photo : Frances Mangosing)

Philippines’ most modern warship launched in South Korea

ULSAN, South Korea — The first ever missile-capable warship to be built for the Philippine Navy was transferred to the water for the first time, seven months after her keel was laid.

The future BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) was launched on Thursday during a ceremony at the Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) shipyard here.

The 107-meter-long vessel represents the first brand new Philippine Navy ship capable of anti-warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare and electronic warfare operations.

The Philippine government signed a deal with HHI to buy two ships of this type for P16 billion in 2016.

Defense Undersecretary Raymundo Elefante, Armed Forces chief Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., Navy chief Vice Adm. Robert Empedrad, and Philippine Fleet commander Rear Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo were among the Philippine delegation who witnessed the naval tradition.

The event coincided with the keel laying ceremony for the second frigate, the future BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151). The event marked the formal construction of the vessel.

The frigates were designed based on the Incheon/FFX-I/HDF-3000-type multi-purpose frigate of the Republic of Korea Navy. It will be armed with Oto Melara 76mm super rapid gun and SMASH 30mm remote-controlled established naval gun.

The ships will be fully equipped with surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles, torpedoes, launchers and weapon systems for four-dimensional warfare.

Each vessel is capable to carry more than a hundred officers and crew. It also features a flight deck towards the stern with the ability to handle one maritime helicopter weighing up to 12t. A hangar will also be fitted to accommodate the helicopter.

It will also be equipped with two rigid-hulled inflatable boats for military and emergency operations at sea.

The two ships will have a maximum speed of 25 knots, with a range 4,500 nautical miles at cruising speed of 15 knots. It can sustain operational presence for 30 days.

It is expected to be delivered to the Philippines by Sept. 6, 2020 and March 6, 2021.

Empedrad said the ships will beef up the Philippines’ sea defenses and will likely patrol the West Philippine Sea and Philippine Rise.

“Having frigates used to be just a dream,” said Elefante, who read the prepared speech of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana who was not present at the event.

“The frigates we are acquiring will serve as a shining symbol of our people who come from a proud race of seafarers and boost our ability to defend our seas and territories,” he added.

The frigate acquisition project of the Philippine Navy attracted attention late 2017 after then Navy chief Vice Adm. Ronald Joseph Mercado was sacked for pushing for a certain brand of combat management systems for the frigates (CMS).

The Malacanang allegedly intervened in the selection of the CMS, prompting the Senate and House of Representatives to investigate into the matter. President Rodrigo Duterte later revealed that he acted on a complaint by HHI.

Speaking to reporters at the HHI headquarters in Seoul on Tuesday, chief executive officer and president Sam Ka denied endorsing the selection of the CMS, saying they did not have influence to do such.

“We are not so strong, not so much impression, so we can’t have many friends so we can’t approach your government. I think when you do any kind of business activities, we try to follow the official channels, which means that it should have been done according to your acquisitions or modernization programs,” he said.

“As far as I understand there were two vendors in the maker’s list for the CMS system. We also understand that there were some cases in the Korean Navy the system was supplied and it was proved to be very good system and good quality. So according to the contractor we have dual vendor, we just recommended Hanwha to the clients in the Philippine side,” he added.

(Inquirer)

24 Mei 2019

MiG-29N of the RMAF (photo : AirTeamImages)

KUALA LUMPUR: “IT is a ridiculous figure!” That was the first reaction from the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s (RMAF) top general when asked about the purported RM36 billion procurement package for 30 light combat jets.

Calling it far-fetched, RMAF chief General Tan Sri Affendi Buang denied a foreign media report that the air force would conclude the deal by year-end.

He said there was no such plan to conclude negotiations on the light combat jets by such a time frame.

The New Straits Times learnt the Defence Ministry was looking at a procurement package of possibly up to only RM7 billion, in view of economic constraints.

Affendi said RMAF, via the ministry, was studying the options offered by manufacturers.

“We need adequate time to carry out a detailed study and come up with a comprehensive package before deciding on which type of aircraft we are interested in.

“As the end-user, it is pertinent to make purchases that suit our planning, specifications, training and operational needs,” he told NST.

He added that this was part of RMAF’s Capability Development 2055 (CAP 55) transformation plan on new procurement, enhancement and upgrading of assets.

“CAP 55’s focus is to ensure that RMAF stays relevant by shaping its war-fighting capability to ensure threats are deterred and contained.

“It takes into account the type of system platforms RMAF should possess by the year 2055.”

Affendi said there was no fixed time frame in making a decision as the procurement package was a long-term initiative to replace RMAF’s ageing fleet of jet trainers and fighters.

“Therefore, there is no need to rush to make a hasty decision.”

A Singapore news report said politics might be the deciding factor in a RM36 billion deal to supply the light combat aircraft over the next 10 years.

The report cited jet models being considered were the FA-50 by Korea Aerospace Industries of South Korea, Tejas by Hindustan Aeronautics of India, YAK-130 by Irkut Aerospace of Russia, JF-17 Thunder from Pakistan and the Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master from Italy.

Singaporean newspaper The Straits Times reported that a decision was pending in the coming months.

It quoted unnamed defence industry executives as saying that the FA-50 was represented by a little-known private entity Kemalak Systems, Tejas by Forte Drus, JF-17 by Kharisma Wira, and YAK-130 by Sarawak-based Sovereign Strategic, while the Aermacchi’s representative was not known.

The defence purchases were said to be linked to trade-offs with Malaysian palm oil, which is facing a European Union ban on bio-fuels.

Russia, India and China appear to be supportive of Malaysia’s palm oil trade-offs involving defence procurement.

The Singapore report divulged that RMAF operated a mixed fleet of supersonic fighters and multi-role combat aircraft, comprising 13 Russian-made MiG-29s, which are now grounded, 18 Sukhoi Su-30MKM Flankers and eight Boeing F/A-18D Hornets.

RMAF, it said, also operated 18 BAE Systems Hawk aircraft and seven Aermacchi MB-339 jet trainers from Italy.

(NST)

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